{"id":12152,"date":"2003-02-01T17:24:11","date_gmt":"2003-02-01T22:24:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12152"},"modified":"2026-03-15T19:31:22","modified_gmt":"2026-03-15T23:31:22","slug":"from-inside-ones-own-self-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12152","title":{"rendered":"From Inside One’s Own Self (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong> \u00a0When a gang of thieves take Ben and Joe as their prisoners, each must draw on their own inner strengths to survive.<\/p>\n

Rating: \u00a0<\/strong>PG-13\u00a0 (22,100 words)
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

From Inside One’s Own Self<\/strong><\/p>\n

His frightened eyes forced themselves to open. Even that small effort seemed to cause his head to pound and slowly the terrified youth attempted to rise up enough to check his surroundings. The top of his head hit something hard and he groaned. His hand moved to rub the soreness but the arm refused to obey the mind\u2019s command. Joe took a deep breath to steady his breathing, hoping to ward off the rising panic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d he called out softly, tugging at the ropes that held his hands tightly behind his back. He smothered a cry as he tried to turn over, realizing that the space he was in was very confining. Joe raised his head merely inches from the hard surface and leaned with his shoulder to his left and then repeated the move with his right shoulder\u2026the space was barely wide enough to hold his body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d screamed Joe as he lost control of his panic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! PLEASE\u2026WHERE ARE YOU?\u201d cried Joe as he began thrashing about in his frightened attempt to remove himself from his boxed prison.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! HELP ME!\u201d the fearful young man squealed. \u201cPa, I can\u2019t move, I can\u2019t get out\u2026Pa, it feels like I\u2019m in a casket! I can\u2019t breathe, I can\u2019t breathe,\u201d cried Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, listen to me son\u2026please, you need to calm down, you\u2019re only making matters worse,\u201d advised Ben. \u201cJoe, do as I say!\u201d ordered Ben more ardently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took several deep breaths and lowered his head to the floor of the wooden casket. He could feel his body being jarred about in a swaying motion and it caused his fear to deepen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026are you all right?\u201d Joe called when he had regained a measure of calm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, son, I\u2019m just a little sore, from where they hit me. What about you?\u201d Ben asked, more concerned for his youngest son than for himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had been paralyzed with fear when he had watched the band of outlaws beat and then tie his son\u2019s hands and feet and then placed him in the wooden casket. His fear had mounted to astronomical heights when one man began hammering the nails into the top of the casket to keep it sealed. He knew Joe\u2019s secret fears of being confined and his terror of the dark. He had had those fears since he had been five, when his mother had died and the boy\u2019s world had suddenly been turned inside out. Ben\u2019s fear for his son\u2019s safety now and his own inability to help the boy ripped his heart into a thousand pieces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, are we gonna get outta this mess?\u201d Joe said in a small voice, coated with despair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to try son, but you have to stay calm, Adam and Hoss will find us Joseph, I promise.\u201d Ben swallowed his own rising panic and prayed fervently that his words were truthful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2026I\u2026I\u2019m scare.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard the catch in his son\u2019s voice and it tore at his heart. \u201cI know you are Joe, but try not to let it get to you. We\u2019ll be all right, son, just as soon as Adam and Hoss get here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt sure that as long as he was able to talk to Joe, his son would keep his panic at bay. What worried Ben however, was what would happen when the wagon in which their casket prisons were being hauled, stopped. The worried father knew that if the outlaws separated him from his son where Joe could no longer hear his voice, the boy\u2019s fright would be his undoing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Joe called out again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Joe?\u201d Ben responded, trying to keep his voice from sounding over confidant. Ben tried to turn onto his side to relieve some of the soreness in his back from having been forced to lie for so long.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid they put you in one of these things too?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, after they knocked you out and put you in that one,\u201d Ben answered honestly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are they taking us Pa? Why did they have to put us in these boxes?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed, \u201cI don\u2019t know where they plan on taking us, son. It must be a good ways from where they jumped us, cause we\u2019ve been on the road for a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s getting hot in here, I need a drink,\u201d sniffed Joe, tugging once more on the ropes around his wrists. \u201cI\u2026don\u2019t like it in here, Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard the fear in his son\u2019s voice and ached to gather the frightened boy into his arms and comfort him. That, however was not to be; the only comfort that the anxious father could render was by talking to his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, why don\u2019t you try resting? Just close your eyes for a little while. Surely they will be stopping before much longer, it\u2019s probably about supper time and they will be getting hungry soon,\u201d suggested Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think I can rest, my legs are cramping and I have to\u2026I have to go,\u201d Joe said sadly. \u201cIf they don\u2019t let me out of here soon, I\u2019m gonna wet all over myself, Pa\u2026Pa\u2026please, can\u2019t you ask them to stop?\u201d pleaded Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The wagon bumped along over rocks and through the ruts that hampered the trail. It seemed like forever to the two men encased in their wooden boxes for such a long time. Their bodies grew weary as the wagon ambled along at a steady pace. Joe was positive that he would be unable to rest, but to please his father, he had shut his eyes. Without even forcing himself, Joe was soon asleep, much to his father\u2019s relief. Ben knew that they were in grave danger and that Joe would need all of his strength in order to fight for survival. Ben took several deep breaths to fill his lungs and closed his own eyes. He needed rest as well, to preserve his dwindling strength. He had not said anything to his son, but the band of outlaws had beaten him, as well as Joe, before being tossed ungraciously into his wooden casket. Ben\u2019s sides ached from his abuse, breathing hurt his ribs and Ben was sure that more than one had been cracked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben allowed his thoughts to wander. The day had started out to be such a good one. He and Joe had been on the trail for only a short while when the band of four outlaws had stopped them and demanded that they come along with them. Their guns had been taken from their holsters, Joe had tried to resist, but one of the men cuffed him on the chin, knocking him from his saddle. Before Joe could collect his senses, two more of the outlaws assaulted him while he lay defenseless on the ground. After kicking Joe several times in the sides and his back, Joe stopped fighting and lay still. Ben had not been able to help his son. Two guns were pointed at his middle, with promises of sure death, should he interfere. When the men tired of their fun, Joe was hauled unceremoniously to his feet and with hands tied, planted into the seat of his saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They rode for what seemed liked hours before stopping for a rest. Joe was sluggish, his body ached from his abuse and it took every ounce of willpower to remain seated in his saddle. Ben could offer nothing other than soothing words to his son, when opportunity presented itself; the gang of ruffians made sure that they kept the father and son separated and it was not until much later that Ben had a good chance to talk quietly with his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I don\u2019t want you to try another fool trick like you did this afternoon. Do you understand me?\u201d Ben directed as they sat together under the shade of a large oak tree where they had been tied and forced to sit, back to back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa, I know it was a dumb thing to do,\u201d Joe told his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben groaned. Joe heard his father make the annoying sound and leaned back against his father and whispered, \u201cPa, I said I was sorry. Don\u2019t worry, I won\u2019t try anything else, besides my sides hurt too much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned his head around as much as he could, trying to see his son\u2019s face. He could only catch a sideways glance of the boy\u2019s features, but the large dark bruise on the left side of Joe\u2019s cheek was noticeable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you okay other than that bruise?\u201d Ben whispered as he glanced at the two men who were approaching them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine Pa. Wonder what those two want now?\u201d whispered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two men stopped in front of Ben and Joe, glowering down at them. \u201cDon\u2019t the two of you get any ideas about trying to escape. Especially you kid,\u201d growled the one they called Luke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe cast a sideways glance up at the man but refused to say anything. Luke snarled at Joe and then kicked out at him, catching Joe on the side of the leg. \u201cYa hear me, kid?\u201d he snapped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I hear you,\u201d answered Joe, refusing to look up at the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa better, Jinx, check their ropes, we don\u2019t want\u2019em to get away, Boss has something special in store for\u2019em.\u201d Luke snickered as he watched Joe\u2019s reaction to his statement. He noted the slight look of fear that flickered across Joe\u2019s face and he laughed again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHope ya ain\u2019t scair\u2019t of the dark, boy,\u201d whispered Luke and then laughed out loud when Joe turned his eyes upward to look the man in the face. \u201cHey Jinx, lookit here!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jinx turned his attention to Luke and then followed his partner\u2019s finger that was pointing at Joe. Jinx studied the anxious expression on Joe\u2019s face, not fully understanding what it was that he was suppose to see.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d grumbled Jinx.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe kid\u2019s afraid of the dark\u2026and you know what the boss intends to do with\u2019em, don\u2019t \u2018cha?\u201d laughed Luke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly Jinx\u2019s face broke into a wide grin, showing his yellowed teeth. \u201cThat ain\u2019t good,\u201d he snickered softly as he glanced over his shoulder to be sure the Boss was not overhearing him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d Joe gulped and Ben could feel the tremors that coursed through his son\u2019s body as Joe pressed himself tightly against his father\u2019s back. \u201cWhat is he planning to do to us?\u201d Joe asked in a weak voice that threatened to break.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both Jinx and Luke began to laugh. The sadistic sounds of the men sent shivers of fear racing through Joe\u2019s veins. The sudden realization that he and his father were in more trouble than first anticipated shook him to the core.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t tellin\u2019 ya. You\u2019ll just have to be patient and find out for yourselves, come on Jinx, lets get back to the fire,\u201d laughed Luke as he turned from Ben and Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait,\u201d Ben called, stopping both outlaws in their tracks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want from us?\u201d asked Ben, hoping that if it were money, he might be able to offer the gang a large enough sum that they would release Joe and himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid ya hear that, Luke, old man Cartwright wants to know what we want of him. Should we tell\u2019em?\u201d Jinx snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke scratched his head and looked at his sidekick. \u201cNaw, Boss might not like it if we did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe watched the movements of both men. They were as tough as any he had ever seen; both were big men, older than he was and probably older than Hoss. Their dirtied complexions hid most of their features, and with the dark shadows of facial hair, it was hard to determine for sure their ages. But their eyes were what caught Joe\u2019s attention. Luke\u2019s eyes were deep set and close together. He squinted when he looked closely at someone or something, but he seemed to never miss a thing, telling Joe that his eyesight was very keen. The color was a strange shade of gray, and when he looked at you in anger, they appeared to be almost black.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jinx\u2019s eyes were blue, like Hoss\u2019, only Hoss\u2019 eyes were kind and gentle, like the man himself. Jinx would look at you and the blue lakes would draw you deeply into their depths. They were mesmerizing and they frightened the youngest Cartwright. Joe avoided looking directly into the man\u2019s face when he spoke to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever it is you\u2019re planning, you\u2019ll never get away with it,\u201d he chanced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoesn\u2019t matter, you won\u2019t be around to know,\u201d snapped Jinx, kicking his pointed toe boot at Joe. Joe moved his legs in time to prevent the man\u2019s kick from striking him in the hip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you really think you can get away with killing us?\u201d asked Ben, using his most authoritative voice possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, now old man, did we say anything about killin\u2019 ya?\u201d laughed Luke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head shot upward as he listened to the man\u2019s words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI only said that you might not be around to find out what we\u2019re up too. Could be you\u2019d be a far piece from here by the time that we steal that go\u2026\u201d Luke began to laugh, \u201cOh no ya don\u2019t, ya old coot.\u201d Luke kicked Ben once and when Ben tried to pull his body away, Luke kicked him a second time. Joe tried to twist his body around to use his own feet to kick out at the crazed man and prevent him from further abusing his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou stay out of this!\u201d shouted Luke as he slapped Joe across his face with the back of his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head spun to the opposite side and he cried out as his teeth sank into the tender flesh of the insides of his mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you leave him alone?\u201d growled Ben, using his back to support Joe\u2019s weight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat kid of yours needs to be taught some manners and I\u2019m just the man to do.\u201d Luke bent down and began to untie Joe\u2019s hands but stopped suddenly when he was lifted from the ground by the scuff of his neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust what the hell do you think you\u2019re doin\u2019?\u201d shouted a big man, dressed in faded black clothes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m goin\u2019 to teach the kid here some manners, that\u2019s all,\u201d stammered Luke when he stood nose to nose with his boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike hell you are. Leave the boy alone, I want him in one piece when we ship him out of here, and that goes for the old man as well. You\u2019ve already taken too much liberty with both of them. Strike either one of them again and you\u2019re a dead man! Now get back over there where you belong!\u201d ordered the leader of the gang, in a voice that left no doubt to his two cohorts that he meant every word that he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boss stood over Ben and Joe and glared at them. \u201cYou best make sure this boy of yours behaves himself. I\u2019d hate to have to kill him, he ain\u2019t worth nothing to me dead.\u201d Boss turned and made his way back to the fire.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think he means by that, Pa?\u201d whispered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know son. But please, try not to antagonize them again. I don\u2019t want them to beat you anymore,\u201d Ben said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, lean back on me and try to get some rest, son, I\u2019m going to watch them for awhile, maybe I can pick up on something they say.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t sleep Pa, I\u2019m\u2026\u201d stammered Joe, half-ashamed to voice his fears, even to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI understand, son, but please, try,\u201d encouraged Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had remained awake for a long time after Joe had fallen to sleep leaning against his back. He was worried, from what he could make out about the gang\u2019s conversation; the outlaws were planning on a holdup. Seems as if they were planning on stealing the gold shipment that was being transported on the stage from Sacramento to Virginia City in two days. What Ben had yet to learn was how he and Joe fit into the men\u2019s plans.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was late by the time that the band of outlaws settled themselves into their bedrolls for the night. He and Joe had managed to move their bodies so that each of them were fairly comfortable leaning against each other. Ben\u2019s sides throbbed from where the men had kicked at him and he could only guess that his son felt no better than he did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe moaned several times throughout the long night, but Ben was satisfied that no major harm had come to his son. Uncertainty as to what the men had in store for them worried Ben; his son\u2019s safety was foremost in his mind as Ben finally shut his own eyes and drifted off into a troubled sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next morning Ben and Joe were hauled to their feet and under heavy guard were allowed to tend to their personal needs. Joe was forced to go in one direction and Ben in the opposite. Joe had just emerged from the woods when loud shouting drew his attention to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was on the ground; two men had converged on him and were pounding their fists into his body. Joe cast a quick glance over his shoulder and saw that the two men who were suppose to be guarding him, had turned their attention on the fight as well. Joe saw his chance and without giving a thought to his own welfare, made a dive at the two men who were attacking his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sailed through the air as he jumped onto the back of one man. This gave Ben just enough of a reprieve from the pounding fists to get in a couple of his own blows. Joe\u2019s guards came alive then and dove in after Joe, taking him down instantly. The tide slowly turned as Joe and Ben fought a losing battle against their enemies. Joe heard Ben bellow in pain as the larger of Ben\u2019s two opponents drove his massive fist into Ben\u2019s stomach. Ben dropped to his knees, which caused Joe to pause momentarily. Luke doubled up his two fists and struck Joe across the back of his neck, rendering Joe unconscious. Joe fell face down into the dirt at his father\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben sputtered, crawling toward his son. Jinx and another man, Simon, grabbed Ben by his arms and hauled him to his feet. Ben cringed when Luke kicked out at Joe, making him moan even in his unconscious state of being.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLeave him alone, you\u2019ve already beaten him half to death,\u201d complained Ben, struggling against the arms that still held him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke stopped, wiped the blood and spittle from his mouth and staggered over to Ben. He stood face to face with his prisoner, and then smiled. Ben studied the man\u2019s face, not caring for the devilish gleam in the man\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke laughed, and turned. Suddenly his hand made contact with the side of Ben\u2019s face, causing Ben\u2019s head to snap backward. \u201cI warned you about that kid, now he\u2019ll find out who\u2019s in charge here. Tie the old man up,\u201d ordered Luke as he walked back to where Joe was just beginning to come around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSimon, you and Max tie the boy up, make sure he can\u2019t get away this time.\u201d Luke walked back to the camp and sat down on a rock next to the Boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you certainly made a mess of things,\u201d Boss smirked. Boss tossed a glance over his shoulder and saw that Jinx, Max and Simon had Joe and Ben subdued and sitting far enough apart from each other that they could not carry on a conversation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke cast his eyes in the direction that the boss was looking and then turned his attention back to the main man. \u201cIt\u2019s that kid, he\u2019s trouble, Boss. Let me get rid of him, what\u2019ll we need him for any ways?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss stood to his feet, glaring down at Luke while sipping his coffee. He glanced at Joe who was resting his head against the trunk of the tree where the others had forced him to sit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet, he\u2019s our insurance and the old man, too. Cartwright\u2019s other sons won\u2019t hesitate to do what we tell\u2019em to if they think both their old man and the kid are in danger. Besides, the old man wouldn\u2019t give a damn about his own life if\u2019n something happened to his boy over there. No Luke, we\u2019ll just carry through with our plans and wait.\u201d Boss started laughing, \u201cbesides, I wanna see the old man\u2019s face when we stuff his<\/p>\n

kid in that coffin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jinx and Simon joined their boss and Luke at the fire while Max, Bob and kept a close watch on their prisoners. \u201cWhen\u2019s Talley suppose to meet us with those coffins anyway?\u201d questioned Jinx as he squatted down in front of the fire and warmed his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis afternoon, down by the lake. He should be there by the time we get there ourselves and everything should be ready to roll out to that island,\u201d explained Boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid ya send a note to Cartwright\u2019s other son?\u201d Luke wanted to know, while glancing over at Ben who appeared to be dozing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet, I\u2019m sending Max on to the Ponderosa after we get them loaded onto the boats and head out to the island. I wouldn\u2019t want them boys to show up before we got their old man and brother planted in the ground,\u201d snickered Boss, tossing the remainder of his coffee off to the side. \u201cCome on, let\u2019s get going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s hands were kept tied behind his back and it took all of his strength to keep himself from falling out of the saddle. He glanced back occasionally to check on his father. Ben had begun to moan softly though he tried to keep from doing it and Joe was worried that his father might have suffered internal injuries from the beating the outlaws had given him. He wished that he could comfort his father in some way, but there was no chance to speak to him, the men were making sure to keep them as far apart from each other as they could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe soon realized that they were headed for a secluded area around the lake. He had been here himself once before when he and Hoss had been out exploring and they had made mention then that this particular spot would make a good hideout. Joe couldn\u2019t help but wonder what the band of ruffians had in store for them. He was soon to find out, for they stopped at last, and when his eyes spied the two small boats anchored at the water\u2019s edge, his heart skipped a beat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jinx and Mac pulled Joe down from his horse and shoved him toward the camp that had been set up by Talley and another man, whose name Joe had yet to learn. He was roughly shoved down on a rock and told to remain where he was, or else.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe watched as Luke and Simon pulled Ben from his saddle and cringed when Ben hit the ground with a thud. Joe jumped to his feet but was quickly grabbed by the shoulder by the unidentified man and shoved back down on his backside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was unceremoniously hauled to his feet and practically dragged to the rock beside his son. \u201cSit down old man, and don\u2019t make a move, or else,\u201d ordered Luke, giving both father and son a warning glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you okay, Pa?\u201d whispered Joe, watching his father\u2019s facial expressions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just sore son, nothing more. What about you?\u201d Ben whispered in rely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d said Joe, not wanting his father to know how he really felt. He was somewhat unnerved by all that had happened to them, but mostly, he was worried about his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShut up over there,\u201d yelled Luke, stepping over to Ben and giving him a hard kick on the leg.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes danced with fire and he started to get up but stopped when his father\u2019s voice ordered him to be still.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa better listen to ya old man, sonny. Ya try anything, anything at all, and your papa gets it. You got that?\u201d Luke leered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed his pride; the last thing he wanted was for his father to get hurt because of him. He glanced up at the man who towered over him. \u201cYeah, I got it,\u201d he mumbled, wishing he had his hands free so that he could knock that sneering expression off the despicable man\u2019s face. Luke laughed and turned away from the pair, returning to sit next to Jinx.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss was talking to Talley. Ben could tell that they were finishing with whatever it was they were planning. He didn\u2019t like the expressions on either man\u2019s face and he feared the worst for both Joe and himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talley started laughing and glanced over at the prisoners. Ben and Joe both saw the look and swapped worried glances between themselves. \u201cWonder what they\u2019re planning Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know son, but I can assure you, it\u2019s not going to be pleasant,\u201d whispered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe cut fearful eyes at his father and opened his mouth to ask just what Ben meant but was stopped by the sudden change of expression that crossed his father\u2019s face. Joe followed his father\u2019s gaze and his heart stopped beating momentarily as his mind registered what his eyes were seeing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Four of the men emerged from the woods. They were carrying wooden caskets and Joe\u2019s eyes seemed to freeze on the figures as they toted the pine boxes over to the camp. Joe\u2019s heart began to beat rapidly as he watched the four men lower the boxes to the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d muttered Joe softly, his voice trembling with fear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026be quiet son, and try to stay calm,\u201d ordered his father. Ben would not look at his son, he knew what he would see in the beautiful emerald eyes that had so much of the time sparkled with happiness. The thoughts of what was fixing to take place, and the fear he knew his son would encounter, ripped at his heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, let\u2019s get them loaded up,\u201d ordered the boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke and Jinx each grabbed Joe by the arms and hauled him to his feet. Simon and Max grabbed Ben. Ben rose willingly to his feet but Joe bulked at the hands that gripped his arms. He dug his heels into the earth to keep from being dragged closer to the pine boxes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not going to put me in that thing!\u201d he shouted, twisting and turning in an attempt to free himself from the hands that held him tightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took every ounce of strength for the two men to hold their squirming prisoner. Joe fought like a wild animal caught in a trap, to free himself. When Luke tired of Joe\u2019s struggles he had Jinx place a choke hold around Joe\u2019s neck and facing Joe, Luke drove his fist into Joe\u2019s middle several times. Joe doubled up from the agony of the assault and quickly crumbled to the ground at his captor\u2019s feet. Jinx managed to get in a couple of swift kicks to Joe’s ribcage before finally subduing his victim.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talley tossed a length of rope to the pair and instructed them to tie Joe\u2019s ankles tightly. When that was finished, Luke and Jinx lifted Joe\u2019s unconscious body from the ground and placed him into the casket, face down. Ben watched, fighting tears that threatened to fill his eyes. He turned his head when Luke and Jinx placed the thick wooden top onto the casket and began hammering in the long nails that sealed his son\u2019s fate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they finished with Joe, Ben was ordered to lower him self into his own casket. Not wanting to make matters any worse for himself, Ben obliged the men and with one last glance at the box that held his son, stretched himself out in the casket. Ben swallowed his own rising fear and shut his eyes as the men covered his face with the box\u2019s lid. The hammering seemed to last only seconds. Ben noted that for whatever reason, the men had only hammered four nails into his box rather than the dozen or more that he had mentally counted being nailed into his son\u2019s prison. Minutes later, Ben heard the thumping sound that told him that they were being placed onto the back of a wagon. His body lurched forward as the horses began moving. Time passed slowly for Ben, his thoughts constantly on his son. Ben worried about the injuries Joe had received from the beating that had taken place earlier and could only hope that his son had been able to get some rest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly the wagon stopped. Ben lay as if paralyzed and listened to the sounds around him. Suddenly Ben\u2019s ears picked up on the scraping sound that told him that Joe\u2019s box was being removed from the back of the wagon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard his son calling for him, but before Ben could make a reply, he felt his casket being lifted and knew that the men where carrying him away from the wagons. Minutes later he felt the gentle swaying of a boat as it was being maneuvered out into open water. Ben opened his eyes; it was dark inside his box, and hot. His thoughts turned to his son, knowing Joe\u2019s fears and quite unexpectedly, tears stung the chocolate eyes and slipped silently down the age worn face of the patriarch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Joe called softly, \u201cdo you know where they\u2019re taking us?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShut up in there, kid,\u201d shouted Luke, giving Joe\u2019s box a kick with his foot. Joe felt the rocking of the boat as the sudden movement caused the boat to dip to one side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed hard forcing himself to remain calm. \u201cWhere\u2019s my father? What have you done with him?\u201d Joe shouted back, turning his head just enough so that he could hear the man\u2019s reply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He heard Luke laugh. \u201cDon\u2019t worry about your ol\u2019 man, kid, he\u2019s taking a little boat ride, too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou better not hurt him, or\u2026\u201d began Joe but stopped when he heard the men in the boat with him start laughing loudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr what kid? Looks to me like ya ain\u2019t in much of a position to nuthin\u2019,\u201d roared Jinx.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe lowered his head to the floor of his box and fought to control his anger, and his fear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben wasn\u2019t sure just how long that they had been rowing, only that his muscles had grown sore and stiff from the lack of movement. He tried stretching his legs out a smidgen further, but to no avail. His space was limited and could do nothing more than groan from his efforts. It was some time later that Ben noticed that the boat had stopped swaying. He could hear the scraping sound on the bottom of the boat that told him that they had reached land. The boat teetered back and forth as the men hauled the boat from the water onto dry land. Minutes later he felt his box being lifted and carried from the boat. He wondered where Joe was and worried about how the boy was coping. Ben felt his casket being lowered to the ground and sighed in relief. He was surprised when he heard one of the men order another to pull out the nails that held the cover in place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben squinted his eyes as the bright sun hit his face. His hand involuntarily reached to cover his eyes from the blinding light but was restrained by the ropes that still held his wrists tied behind his back. Ben was hauled to his feet by rough hands and then forced to sit on the damp ground. When his eyes became accustomed to the light, he looked around at his surrounding, trying to get his bearings as to where he was. Immediately, he spotted his son\u2019s casket. He glanced up at his captors but none of the men seemed to be doing anything about releasing Joe from his boxed prison.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about my son? Aren\u2019t you going to let him out?\u201d Ben could not refrain from asking. He knew Joe must have been baking inside of the hot box.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talley stood before Ben, glaring and shook his head. \u201cNo.\u201d He turned from Ben and began speaking with the one they had called Boss. Both men had their heads bent closely together, whispering. Every once in a while Ben noted that they looked his direction and then continued with their conversation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMax, you and Simon get over here, you too Luke, Jinx, keep your eye on the old man,\u201d ordered Boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the men had gathered into a tight circle, heads bent together, Ben could no longer make out anything that was being said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMax, here\u2019s the note. I want you to go back to the Ponderosa and give it to Cartwright\u2019s oldest son. Make sure he understands exactly what will happen to his father and brother should he not follow my directions perfectly. Simon, you take him inland in one of the boats. You men got that?\u201d Boss asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, Boss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGot\u2019cha.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, now get going, and be careful. I\u2019ll see ya back here no later than tomorrow morning.\u201d Boss turned his attention to Luke and Talley. I want the two of you to help old man Cartwright dig the graves. Make him understand that if he doesn\u2019t do as I say, the boy over there will die.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure \u2018nough Boss. Come on Luke, let\u2019s see what the old man thinks of our plan.\u201d Talley rose to his feet and approached Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOn your feet Cartwright. Jinx, untie his hands. Here\u2019s the deal old man, now listen good,\u201d began Boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jinx untied the ropes from Ben\u2019s wrists and quickly Ben began rubbing the area where the ropes had chaffed his flesh. He felt the tingling sensations as the blood began flowing freely once more through his veins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about my son? He needs some fresh air, and I\u2019m sure he needs to relieve him self,\u201d Ben stated matter-of-factly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss tossed a glance at the other casket that had been placed in the hot sun, and seemed to be considering Ben’s request. He turned back to face his prisoner and shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cToo bad. His fate lies in your hands, and in the hands of your other sons. Cartwright, you\u2019re going to dig a grave, two graves actually. One is for him,\u201d Boss nodded his head toward Joe\u2019s casket, and the other one is yours, should your boys fail to comply with my wishes. After the graves are dug, you are going ashore to meet with your sons, Talley here is going along with you, just make sure you don\u2019t double cross us.\u201d Boss snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou just remember, the boy\u2019s box in going to be in the ground, if you fail to follow orders, all I have to do is give my men a signal, and the boy is buried alive. Do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gulped and hoped that his expression showed none of the fear and dread he felt in his heart. \u201cI understand. Just what is it that you want me to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talley and Boss smiled at each other, so far so good, they thought. \u201cMax is in the process of taking a note to your sons at the Ponderosa. It tells them that I have you and the kid as my hostages. By tomorrow evening, you will be meeting with them at a selected spot and instruct them that they are to remove the $500,000 gold shipment from Friday\u2019s stage and report back to the spot where I will tell you to instruct them to take the gold. I don\u2019t care how they get the gold, just that if they do not, both you and the boy over there, will die a slow and hideous death. I will not hesitate to bury both of you alive. Do I make myself clear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes were dark with anger and hate. Just the thoughts of what this mad man was suggesting, turned his stomach. He glanced at the box where Joe lay, and felt his stomach knot in fear for his son\u2019s safety.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI understand. Adam and Hoss will do just as you say, I assure you,\u201d said Ben, fully trusting that his older two sons would not let their brother or their father down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, now get to work,\u201d ordered Boss as he held his arm out toward Ben. Ben took one look at the shovel the man offered him and wished he could use it to beat the bastard\u2019s head into a bloody pulp. Without a word, Ben grabbed the shovel and followed Luke and Jinx to the designated spot and began digging.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took several hours before the two graves were dug deep enough to satisfy the man in charge. Once Boss and Talley inspected Ben\u2019s handiwork, the order was given for Joe\u2019s casket to be lowered into the opening. Ben watched in horror as Luke and Jinx picked up the box and not caring how they handled their cargo, carried Joe to the open grave. Straps had been placed across the opening to be used to lower the casket to the bottom. Ben was ordered to take his place on one side and do his share in placing the casket just so on the straps. It galled him to know that he was being forced to do something so horrendous to his own son. The hot liquid bile boiled up into this throat and he was forced to turn his head, emptying his stomach\u2019s contents onto the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His reaction made the others laugh, jabbing one another in the ribs as they watched Ben retch repeatedly. At last he swiped his hand across his mouth and glared at the Boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan I at least talk to my son for a minute, alone?\u201d inquired Ben, hoping that there might be a thread of compassion in the heart of this intolerable man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss watched the expression on his captor\u2019s face. He saw the inner turmoil behind the dark eyes and he almost relented.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not going to let him, are you?\u201d Talley jeered. He had been watching both men and saw the slight hesitation in the boss\u2019s eyes and thought it would be a fool-hearty move, to allow Cartwright time to converse with his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss was jarred from his thoughts and turned, shaking his head at Talley. \u201cWhat the hell do you take me for, a fool?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo way Cartwright, just keep working and keep your mouth shut,\u201d ordered Boss as he nodded his head for the men to begin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Together the men began to slowly lower the wooden box into the ground. Ben felt his stomach churning as he listened with a broken heart to the screams that reached his ears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! PA! What\u2019s happening? Please PA! Answer me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced at his tormentors and saw the smiles that spread across their faces. Silently, deep within his heart, Ben made a secret vow that if he got out of this alive he would hunt down each and everyone of them and kill them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease Pa\u2026help me! Help me\u2026help\u2026m..e\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s voice had drifted off into silence and Ben knew that Joe had passed out. He silently thanked God and prayed that Joe would not be made to suffer more than what he could bare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell done, old man. Now get something to eat and then you and Talley get some sleep. As soon as Max and Simon get back you will take the boat to the main land and then Talley will take you to the meeting place. As for the kid, he\u2019ll stay right where he is until I have that gold shipment in my hands. It\u2019s up to you and those boys of yours whether or not the kid dies. Remember one thing Cartwright,\u201d the boss paused and studied Ben\u2019s face. \u201cIf you are not back by the designated time, we start throwing dirt down the hole.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, I plan on being back. You just remember this, if any more harm comes to my boy, there won\u2019t be a rock big enough for you to hide behind. I\u2019ll hunt you down like the animal you are and I\u2019ll kill you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned his back on the man and headed for the fire where hot coffee and beans waited for him. As he sat down, and took the warm coffee into his hands, he felt his stomach churn again and in the dim glow of the fire, brushed his hand through his silver hair, glanced at the opened grave and muttered softly. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Joseph, I\u2019m so sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should saddle up Adam and go look for\u2019em. Pa dun said they\u2019d be home before dark, and it\u2019s already eight-thirty,\u201d grumbled Hoss as he paced back and forth in front of the massive fireplace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced up from behind the book he had been reading and watched his brother\u2019s nervous pacing. \u201cI wish you would stop that infernal pacing, Hoss, it\u2019s getting on my nerves. Pa and Joe will be here any minute. I don\u2019t think either of them would take kindly to being searched for like they were a couple of kids, especially Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stopped and stared at his older brother, \u201cWell, what about Joe, he is just a kid.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes. \u201cHoss\u2026\u201d he began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLooky Adam, somethin\u2019 ain\u2019t right. I feel it in my bones\u2026I think\u2026\u201d He stopped mid-sentence, interrupted by the loud pounding on the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing rushed from the kitchen to answer the deafening knocking. As he pulled the heavy, thick oak door opened, a stranger dressed in dusty clothing stepped just inside the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna speak to Adam Cartwright,\u201d he growled at Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing twisted his head around to summon Adam but Adam was already half way to the door, Hoss just a step behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou wanted to see me?\u201d inquired Adam, noting the rough appearance of the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou Adam Cartwright?\u201d he demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced at his brother, a wary look on his face that spoke, without voicing, a word of caution to his older brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, what can I do for you?\u201d asked Adam, masking the sudden uneasy feeling that had crept into his veins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRead this.\u201d Max handed the letter to Adam and waited with bated breath until Adam had extracted the note from its envelope.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo just as it says and no harm will come to your father and brother.\u201d Max twirled around and walked quickly out, into the night. He sprang unto his mount and turned the horse about and galloped off into the darkness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing closed the door and stood, waiting as Adam unfolded the paper, scanning the words first before going back and starting at the beginning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His face darkened with anger as he read the words. Once or twice he glanced up at Hoss and then quickly returned to the paper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s it say, Adam. What\u2019s wrong? Is it Pa and Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam held the paper tightly in his trembling hands and turned to Hoss. \u201cYes. They\u2019ve been taken hostage by some thugs and are being held at an undisclosed location. We\u2019ve been instructed to meet with Pa and one of the men, tomorrow at 6 p.m. up at the lake, at Marie\u2019s grave. The message says that if we don\u2019t come alone, Joe will be buried alive. It says, he\u2019s already nailed in a coffin and is in the ground, only thing left to do is to fill the grave.\u201d Adam groaned. \u201cDamn the man who hammered those nails in my brother\u2019s coffin. I\u2019ll kill the son of a \u2026Come on Hoss, let\u2019s get our things together. Hop Sing, pack us some grub, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes blurred briefly at the thoughts of his brother sealed in a pine box, alive. He shuddered, feeling his younger brother\u2019s fear. Hoss shook his head to rid himself of the images that threatened to break him and hurried to follow Adam out to the barn to prepare their things for the ride to Marie\u2019s grave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gasped, his stomach growled from the many hours that it had been denied food. He licked his lips in an effort to moisten them, and felt the chapped, rough skin instead. His sides and back ached, his head throbbed and with a sickness in his heart, he felt the dampness of his clothes where his bladder had released itself after too many hours of trying to hold himself. Joe felt the tears sting his eyes. He had heard the loud shouts above him, his father\u2019s voice had rang loud and clear as he warned the outlaws that he would hunt them down and kill them should anything happen to his son. Joe\u2019s body screamed to be allowed to move, but nothing Joe did could bring any measure of relief to his wearied bones. He was not even able to turn onto his side, or his back. He was confined to laying face down on the hard wooden boards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe belched, tasting the unpleasant bile that slipped into his throat, burning the interior as it returned to his stomach. He needed water anything to quench his thirst and wet his dry mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Panic continued to haunt the terrified boy. His only thoughts were on his father and the beating that he had taken. He repeatedly told himself that he had to find a way out, so that he could help his father. Ben needed him; get out Joseph, hurry, hurry, sang his heart. Joe closed his eyes but his father\u2019s face danced before him. Ben\u2019s eyes were begging him to help him, his father\u2019s face was bloodied and in Joe\u2019s twisted dreams he saw his father on his knees, crying, screaming, and wailing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLET ME OUT! PLEASE, HE NEEDS ME!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! PA!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The laughter above ground never reached Joe\u2019s ears, except for one man, Ben. His heart twisted in agony for his son. Ben knew Joe\u2019s mind was slowly leaving this world of reality into a world of darkness where his senses seemed to float from one distorted image to another. He could only wonder what shape the boy\u2019s mind would be in by the time that he was able to free his son of his prison. Ben shut his mind to the piteous screams that tore at him and tried to sleep, but the ache in his heart for his youngest son prevented sleep from claiming him. When, hours later, the screaming had stopped, Ben dozed, though only briefly until the sounds of the camp waking, brought Ben from his tormented slumber.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With his hands tied behind his back, Ben was hauled to his feet and brought to sit in front of the fire. When his hands were freed, coffee and Johnnycakes were handed to him. He accepted gratefully. He felt guilty, eating, when he knew that it had been more than 24 hours since Joe had taken a bite. Realizing that by not eating, he would only make matters worse on himself, leaving him weak and maybe unable to accomplish the mission that the boss had set for him, Ben indulged himself in his breakfast. He had to keep up his strength in order to help his son, he told himself but it still made his food hard to swallow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t long before Ben was finished with his breakfast and made to crawl into the little boat that had brought him to the island. With one last glance at the silent hole where Joe\u2019s casket lay deeply within the ground, Ben silently vowed to return and rescue his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet going Cartwright,\u201d ordered Talley, giving Ben a nudge toward the boat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t ya gonna tie his hands?\u201d asked Simon, watching.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talley looked at Ben, studying his face, and suddenly he smiled. \u201cNaw, he knows what will happen to his boy if he tries anything funny, don\u2019t ya old man?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was solemn, \u201cYes, I know,\u201d he said flatly and climbed into the boat. Talley followed and sat on the seat facing his prisoner. Simon followed Talley and standing in the back of the boat, picked up one long oar and shoved off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took the three men most of the morning to reach the shoreline. Quickly they gathered their things and began saddling their horses that they had been left hobbled to graze on the lush green grass that bordered around the lake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was nearly five by the time that Ben and Talley reached Marie\u2019s gravesite. Ben and Talley slid from their horses and laced the reins around the branches of a nearby tree. Simon had stopped a short distance back to keep watch and stay undercover lest something went wrong.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSit down Cartwright, might as well make the most of it for now. Once ya talk to your sons, we have a long ride back.\u201d Talley pointed to a rock and while Ben settled down to wait the arrival of his sons; Talley made himself comfortable nearby. \u201cRemember, nothing funny. You only say what Boss told you to say, nothing more, or else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shuddered, \u2018or else\u2019, he thought. \u2018Or else\u2019 Joseph dies. His mind strayed to his son and Ben prayed that Joseph was managing all right, though Ben doubted his son\u2019s ability to cope with all the mental anguish that had been dumped on him. Joe was young, and strong, braver than most men, in most things, pondered Ben. But with confinement, his fear of the dark and his fear of losing face, Joe tended to\u2026well thought Ben, not be a coward, more like boyish with his childlike fears. They stemmed from the loss of his mother at an early age, Ben understood why Joe had those certain fears, and he had never made his son to feel less than a man about them. They were something, with age and wisdom that Ben hoped Joe would one day outgrow. But at the tender age of nineteen, Joe still needed the security of his father and brothers, though he would never admit that to a living soul, except perhaps his father. Ben smiled, remembering the glow in the hazel eyes when he had asked Joe to accompany him on this business trip. The smile died quickly. \u2018This is all my fault, his suffering. If I had not asked him along, he would be safe at home right now.\u2019 Ben dropped his head, sickened by what his youngest son was forced to endure because of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pounding of hooves brought Ben from his melancholy mood and back to the present. Talley jumped to his feet, his pistol in his hand and stepped behind Ben. \u201cI\u2019m warning you Cartwright, one wrong move and the boy\u2019s dead.\u201d With that, Talley slipped behind a large boulder, out of sight of Ben\u2019s approaching sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop right there Adam,\u201d Ben called, holding up his hand in a signal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss pulled their mounts to a sudden stopped and jumped from their saddles. \u201cPa, are you okay?\u201d asked Adam as he took another step closer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, don\u2019t come any closer, there are guns pointed at us. But to answer your question, yes, I\u2019m fine.\u201d Ben forced a smile and nodded at Hoss. \u201cHello, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi ya, Pa. Where\u2019s Little Joe? Is he all right?\u201d asked Hoss. \u201cWhat happened to your face?\u201d he growled after spotting the bruises that darken his father\u2019s features.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, please, I don\u2019t have much time. Joe\u2019s being held prisoner; I\u2019m not at liberty to tell you where, not yet. There is something that you boys have to do. I don\u2019t care how you do it, just do it. Joe\u2019s life depends on it,\u201d Ben explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about yours?\u201d Adam demanded glancing about hoping to find where the guns were that was suppose to be aimed at them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m not worried about myself, but I am worried about Joseph. They have him in a pine box, nailed shut, sitting at the bottom of a six-foot hole. Now listen to me\u2026there is a stage due into Virginia City tomorrow afternoon. It\u2019s going to be carrying a gold shipment, $500,000 in gold to be exact. You have to take the gold and get to the west end of the lake, you remember where we had that camping trip a couple years ago?\u201d Ben questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we remember,\u201d Adam confirmed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou two have to take the gold there, no later than seven o\u2019clock. And come alone. Once you get there with the gold, one of the men will tell you what to do next,\u201d Ben paused. \u201cAdam, Hoss your brother\u2019s life depends on this working out. He\u2019s been hurt, but I don\u2019t think too badly. I just want him out of that box, and as soon as possible. I\u2019m afraid of what\u2019s happening to his mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe understand Pa, but are you saying we have to holdup the stage?\u201d Adam asked, shocked at the unusual request being made of Hoss and himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, just make sure you don\u2019t get wounded by one of the guards and try not to get one of them hurt. You know the driver, explain it to him and tell him I\u2019ll stand good for the loss, even if it means selling everything I own, understand?\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben caught a movement from behind one of the boulders to his son\u2019s back. \u201cI have to go now boys, do your best, and please, be careful.\u201d Ben wished with all of his heart that he could step forward and embrace his two sons, but knew that would be impossible. \u201cGod bless you, both,\u201d he called as he turned and disappeared around the huge stones and into the woods.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam stood several moments, staring at each other. Hoss took a deep breath and let it out slowly, \u201cWell, big brother, what\u2019s say we rob a stage?\u201d He laughed lightly and slung his massive arm about the shoulder of his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess there\u2019s a first time for everything,\u201d muttered Adam, totally disgusted with the ugly task they had been commissioned to perform.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss swung into their saddles and turned the horses in the direction that the stage would be coming. \u201cMight as well get there and get ready,\u201d he muttered to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa got a plan, Adam? I mean, we ain\u2019t never robbed a stage before. I ain\u2019t got no idey where to begin\u2026I remember the time Little Joe and I robbed the bank, but\u2026well\u2026this is different,\u201d Hoss mused, pushing his big tall hat back on his head and casting a sideways glance at his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Inspite of himself, Adam had to laugh. \u201cHoss, how could you think of that bank robbery at a time like this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss giggled, \u201cI dunno Adam, ya know how that kid brother of ours is forever gettin\u2019 one or both of us into some kind of trouble, it just sorta popped into my head, supposin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, looks like he\u2019s done it again, doesn\u2019t it?\u201d Adam snapped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026shucks Adam, this tweren\u2019t Joe\u2019s fault no more\u2019n it was Pa\u2019s,\u201d Hoss said protectively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave Hoss a serious look, his expression dead serious, \u201cI know that Hoss, and I\u2019m afraid for Little Joe. I don\u2019t even want to think about what he could be going through, sealed in that pine box. You know as well as I do, what happens to Joe in those types of situations. And I\u2019ll tell you this much, if they so much as harm a hair of those unruly locks of his, I\u2019ll kill them with my bare hands. Now, enough jawin\u2019, let\u2019s get to the forks.\u201d Adam said nothing more, but spurred his mount into a gallop; Hoss followed suit, bringing his mount up beside Adam\u2019s as they rode along.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat silently, as if he were a statue in the boat as Talley and Simon rowed the boat out to the island. He was lost in thoughts, wondering just how Adam and Hoss would be able to pull off the robbery and whether or not someone would be injured or worse, killed. And then there was Joe; Ben feared the worst for his youngest son. He could only imagine what was going through the boy\u2019s mind, and he worried that the outlaws would not keep their word once they had the gold in their possession. Would they kill him and Joe, would they do as they had threatened and bury both of them alive? Or worse, bury Joe and make him watch, or even help them cover the grave. Ben felt his body tremble and he glanced at the two men, hate filling the dark depths of his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa? Oh\u2026someone\u2026please? Adam\u2026Hoss\u2026help me!\u201d Joe muttered incoherently. No one could hear him, no one even cared that he was scared, or hungry, or wet. Joe was almost passed caring himself. His reserve was nearly gone, his body was in agony, and his hands were without feeling and were burning from the ropes that had held his wrists for hours behind his back. In his befuddled mind, his pa was gone, maybe even dead and the only thing that the troubled mind could hold on too, was that his Pa needed his help.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPapa\u2026hold on,\u201d whispered the inaudible voice in Joe\u2019s head. \u201cI\u2019ll find a way out of this, and I swear\u2026I\u2019ll help you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once back at the camp, Ben was ordered into his box. He cast an anxious glance at the hole where he had helped to lower his son\u2019s body into the ground. He gave a sigh of relief at seeing the grave had not been filled with the rich, dark dirt that remained piled high near the opening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHurry it up ole man,\u201d ordered Luke, giving a shove with his hand, to Ben\u2019s back. \u201cAnd don\u2019t worry about the kid, I ain\u2019t heard a word from him in hours. Probably dead by now,\u201d laughed Luke, wickedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cast angry eyes at the man standing behind him. \u201cYou better hope he isn\u2019t. Cause if he is, I\u2019ll hunt you down and kill you with my bare hands,\u201d Ben growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026shut up and get in the box. You ain\u2019t gonna kill no one, lest of all me!\u201d Luke snapped in return, though he did make note of the dark eyes that did nothing to conceal the hatred the older man was feeling. Luke gulped, \u201cHurry up!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben did as ordered and stretched out the best he could. At least this time the men had not tied his hands, and for that small consideration, Ben was grateful, though he felt guilty knowing that Joe was bound hand and foot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss hid behind the thick grove of trees and waited for the stage to arrive. They had decided not to cover their faces, there was no sense in doing so, the driver would probably recognize them right off any ways. Instead, they would meet the stage head on, on foot. They would explain to the driver their predicament and hopefully the driver would be understanding and just hand over the gold shipment to them. Adam had taken the time to write out an IOU in his father\u2019s name, promising the bank that he would stand good for the gold, should it not be retrieved later on. He also wrote out a note to Roy Coffee, sheriff of Virginia City, explaining why they were holding up the stage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope this works Adam,\u201d Hoss said, glancing down the road in hopes of seeing the stage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe better pray it does,\u201d Adam answered, following his brother\u2019s gaze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned to study his brother\u2019s expression. \u201cWhat are we gonna do if\u2019n if don\u2019t?
\n\u201cIt will Hoss,\u201d Adam turned to look into the crystal blue eyes that studied his face. \u201cEven if we have to take it by force, we will not leave here without that gold.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was just about ready to open his mouth and comment, when his attention was drawn to the sound of the approaching stage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Hoss, this is it,\u201d said Adam, stepping out into the middle of the road. Hoss hurried to join his brother, a worried frown on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam held his hands up, signaling the stage coach driver to pull to a stop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa\u2026\u201d he heard the man say to the teams of horses. The guard immediately pointed his double-barreled shotgun at them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake it easy, ole timer,\u201d cautioned Adam approaching the side of the stage. \u201cHello Mark,\u201d smiled Adam, hoping to defuse any doubts as to why he and Hoss might be stopping the stage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The stage door suddenly swung opened; Clem Foster, Roy\u2019s deputy stepped down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Hoss, what the blazes are you doing here?\u201d he asked, surprised to see two of the town\u2019s most important men standing in the middle of the dusty road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLost your horses?\u201d he laughed teasingly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, we\u2019re here to rob the stage,\u201d said Adam silently, so that only Clem could hear him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? What are you talking about, Adam?\u201d Clem almost shouted and then quickly lowered his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cListen Clem, we don\u2019t have much time, I\u2019ll explain it all to you and Roy later. Right now there are some men holding Pa and Joe as their hostages and will bury them alive if we don\u2019t get them this gold shipment by 7 p.m. tonight. We can\u2019t waste anymore time. Now, please, give us the gold,\u201d Adam said with urgency.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam, you know darn well I can\u2019t do that, why Roy would have my\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stepped up nose to nose to Clem and glared down at him. \u201cClem, our family is dependin\u2019 on us. You just tell Roy what big brother here just told ya and he will understand. Adam has an IOU sayin\u2019 that Pa will stand good for the gold. Now get to it, afore I lose my temper\u2026I\u2019m already boilin\u2019 mad as it is at them varmints that\u2019s got Pa and Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem blew what breath he had left in his lungs, outward and shook his head. \u201cOkay, okay, but I\u2019m warnin\u2019 ya boys, this better be on the up and up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cClem, do ya think we\u2019d lie to ya about somethin\u2019 as important as this? And \u2018sides, what\u2019ll ya take us for, anyways?\u201d snarled Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh\u2026it wouldn\u2019t be the first robbery you ever committed now, would it?\u201d said Clem half jokingly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026that was Little Joe\u2019s doin\u2019s, I jist went along with\u2019em, t\u2019alls,\u201d stammered Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHand me the box with the gold, Mark,\u201d ordered Clem.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT!\u201d shouted the driver, giving his guard a daring look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t try anything, either,\u201d Clem added for good measure. \u201cWe\u2019ll give it back to the bank later.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mark tugged on the heavy box until he had moved it close to the edge of the top of the stage. Hoss crawled unto the wheel and hoisted the box down to the ground. \u201cWhat about the key?\u201d he asked the drive.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mark dug in his pocket until he found what he was looking for and tossed the key to Adam. \u201cThanks Mark, you just might be saving a couple of lives today,\u201d smiled Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cClem, take this note to Roy, tell him we\u2019ll be in touch if we need his help. I don\u2019t know where Pa and Joe are being held, but we\u2019ll find them,\u201d Adam explained as Clem climbed back into the coach and nodded at the driver to be on his way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood luck Adam, Hoss and be careful,\u201d called out Clem.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam watched as the coach rolled around the bend and out of sight. Helping Adam pick up the heavy box and carry it to where the horses were tied, Hoss could not refrain from asking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow we gonna carry all this? This stuff is heavy,\u201d he groaned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGuess we take it out of the box and pack it in our saddle bags. Come on, we don\u2019t have much time, it\u2019s getting late,\u201d said Adam as he unlocked the thick lock that held the box lid in place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWow! Will look at all of this gold?\u201d stammered Hoss as his fingers gently wrapped around one of the thick bars of shiny gold. This is the stuff that dreams are made of,\u201d he whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure is, men kill for this type of riches. Come on Hoss, help me get this loaded up.\u201d Adam shook his head to clear the menacing thoughts from his mind and began packing the golden bars into his saddlebags.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The gold bars were heavy and it took more time than the brothers would have like to waste. Once they stabilized the heavy saddlebags on the back of their horses, they headed to the west side of the lake to meet with the men who would be waiting for them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talley and the Boss were waiting for Adam and Hoss when they arrived at the designated spot. Both men held their fingers at their guns, ready to draw and shoot if need be, though they doubted that the Cartwright brothers would try anything foolish, fear of loosing their father and brother would prevent them from trying anything. They had yet to learn the whereabouts of their loved ones, so Talley and Boss felt confident.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss glanced at one another and then cautiously dismounted. Talley and Boss approached the brothers with as much wariness as the Cartwrights approached them. Adam\u2019s sharp eyes took in the appearance of each man, knowing instantly that the two men bore watching. Talley was tall, nearly as tall as Adam, though more muscular and out weighed Adam by several pounds. Adam\u2019s thoughts briefly called to mind his younger brother and he wondered if either man had laid a hand on the boy. Joe\u2019s size and strength was no match for Talley, and Adam could only imagine the damage that Talley\u2019s massive fists could do to his little brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss was more brain than brawn, he was quiet and more reserved than his associate, his demure plainly left no doubt that this man was The Boss. \u201cYou got the gold?\u201d Boss asked, keeping his eyes trained on the brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat depends,\u201d stated Adam, meeting Boss\u2019 glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDepends?\u201d stammered Talley, giving a questioning glance at Boss. \u201cWhat the hell do you mean by that? Ya wanna see your ole man and kid brother again, don\u2019t ya?\u201d he barked sharply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, but what do you have to prove to us that they are still alive?\u201d Adam dared, hoping that he wasn\u2019t pushing too hard. He had to think of a plan, until now, he had no idea who these men were and still, he had no idea where his father and brother were being held.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talley laughed, joined by Boss. \u201cWell, aren\u2019t you the smart one, Cartwright.\u201d Boss said and laughed again. \u201cI guess you will just have to take our word for it, now won\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed and glanced at his brother. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you just tell us where you have them, and then maybe we\u2019ll give you the gold?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe? Ha\u2026You\u2019ll give us the gold first, then we will tell you. Don\u2019t play games with us Cartwright, or the kid dies. Look behind you, one signal from me and he goes straight back to our hideout and starts filling the hole,\u201d Boss stated firmly, keeping his tone low and even, under lined with a threatening thread.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I\u2019ll get the gold, half now, half when you tell us where you have my father and brother, Hoss, get half of the gold,\u201d Adam instructed his brother, never taking his eyes off the pair of outlaws.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss quickly stepped behind the boulders where the horses were tied and removed his saddlebags from Chubb\u2019s back. He hurried to return to his brother\u2019s side and tossed the bags at Talley\u2019s feet. Talley stooped down and grabbed the bag, lifted up the flap and let out a loud low breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhew\u2026will ya lookit this?\u201d he asked, giving Boss a peek into the saddlebag.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam noted the smile that spread across each man\u2019s face. \u201cNow, where\u2019s my family?\u201d he demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo on, tell him Boss, so that we can get the rest of the gold and get out of here,\u201d Talley told the boss man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold on just a minute,\u201d Boss leered, giving Adam a swift once over.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop making excuses, tell us where our brother and father are, or\u2026\u201d said Hoss, taking a threatening step toward both men.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, hold on,\u201d ordered Adam, grabbing the big man\u2019s arm and holding him back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa better listen to your brother, fatso, or you won\u2019t ever see your kin alive,\u201d Talley barked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched the pair, they were getting nervous and Adam sensed that the one called Boss might give the signal to their partner hiding in the bushes. \u201cGet the other saddlebag, Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre ya sure, Adam?\u201d questioned Hoss, doubtfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head and Hoss reluctantly did as his brother requested. When Hoss returned minutes later, Adam took the bag from his brother and held it at arm\u2019s length from Boss. Talley made a grab for the bag, but Adam, anticipating his move, jerked back his arm, preventing Talley from taking the gold from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe location, first, then the gold.\u201d Adam spoke directly to the boss, never giving his partner another glance, he knew that Hoss had his eyes set on the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have your father meet you at the falls. You do know where that is, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know. What about my brother?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour father can take you back to where he is, that will give my men and myself ample time to make our getaway. Now hand over the gold, and stop wasting time. Your little brother doesn\u2019t like being in that box, he\u2019s getting restless,\u201d Boss taunted the brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He knew he had said the right thing, for he noted the sudden intake of air by the fat man and the darkening color of the man called Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam extended his hand toward Boss. Boss touched the saddlebag, ready to take possession, but Adam\u2019s strong fingers clutched the bag briefly. \u201cYou better not double cross me, because if you do, I\u2019ll hunt you down, if it takes the rest of my life and I\u2019ll kill you. You understand me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss felt the fine hairs on the back of his neck rise. Something in the man\u2019s tone warned him that Adam was a man of his word and he would do exactly as he promised. \u201cDon\u2019t worry Cartwright, I\u2019m not stupid, just cautious. You can meet your father at the falls, by daybreak.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s fingers unfolded slowly from around the heavy saddlebag. Boss\u2019 eyes glowed with what Adam could only define as greed as the men slowly backed away and mounted their horses. In a split second they disappeared into the brush and were gone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss rubbed his large beefy hand through his thinning hair and turned to his brother. \u201cThink they\u2019ll keep their word, Adam?\u201d he asked doubtfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hung his head, looking up only with his eyes at the direction the men had ridden off in. \u201cThey better. Come on, let\u2019s get something to eat and then catch a couple hours of sleep, then we\u2019ll ride over to the falls and be waiting for Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss took a deep breath and followed Adam over to their horses and began making camp. Several minutes past before either brother spoke. Hoss stood facing his saddle, his heart in his throat. \u201cI didn\u2019t like what that varmint said about Little Joe being in that there casket.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up from the fire he was starting and glanced at his brother. He knew Hoss was on the verge of tears. His large oversized frame was nothing compared to the size of the big man\u2019s heart, especially when it came to Little Joe, he was a softy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know Hoss, I know how Joe is, but we can\u2019t do anything right now to help him. But soon, I promise you, we\u2019ll get him out.\u201d Adam had come to stand behind Hoss and could see the massive shoulders begin to quiver. He placed a hand on the back of his brother\u2019s shoulder and squeezed tightly, offering what comfort he could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be all right, Hoss, after all, he\u2019s a Cartwright, isn\u2019t he?\u201d Adam said lightly, hoping to improve Hoss\u2019 mood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded his head and turned to face his older brother. \u201cYeah, ya can say that again. I just hope that this hasn\u2019t been more\u2019n the boy could stand\u2026I mean, we both know that the kid is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026try not to think about it like that\u2026we\u2019ll be there in a few hours, come on let\u2019s eat something,\u201d said Adam, gently leading Hoss toward the fire.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Max guided the little boat onto the sandy bank and jumped out to pull it out of the water so that the boss and Talley could disembark without having to put their feet in the water. Luke, Simon, and Jinx hurried to the shoreline to greet the two men as they entered the camp.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid ya get the gold?\u201d inquired Luke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, let us see it,\u201d Jinx hurried to ask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold on, hold on,\u201d laughed Boss. \u201cGive me a minute to sit down and warm my hands, first.\u201d Boss and Talley moved to the fire, followed by the others who stood impatiently, wanting nothing more than to get a peek at the gold bars.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss tossed his saddlebag at the men\u2019s feet, followed by Talley. Quickly, Jinx and Luke grabbed the bags and opened them while Simon stood over their shoulders trying to see into the bags.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWow, would ya look at his,\u201d squealed Luke, pulling one of the golden bars from its resting-place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Simon reached down and pulled a second bar into the light. The soft glow of the fire caused the bar to sparkle brightly. \u201cMan\u2026can you believe this? Five hundred thousand dollars in gold, yehaa! We\u2019re rich!\u201d he yelled, dancing around the others.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The men broke into a loud laughter. They were all very pleased with the way in which they had pulled off the holdup, making the sons of their captive do the actual robbing for them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, let\u2019s break camp and get out of here,\u201d Boss ordered, getting to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about our guest?\u201d Talley asked, nodding his head in the direction of the open graves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss stopped to ponder his associate\u2019s question. \u201cI\u2019d like to just leave them, cover them up and leave them. But\u2026that Adam Cartwright doesn\u2019t strike me as man who would let something like his father and brother being buried alive, go unanswered for. Take the old man ashore and see that he gets to the falls.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about the kid?\u201d asked Luke. \u201cI sure would like to\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cForget it Luke!\u201d Boss growled. \u201cLeave him be, let his family come back to get him. Hell, he\u2019s probably already dead as it is. You heard anything out of him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot me, have you Jinx, Simon?\u201d asked Luke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope, not in several hours,\u201d answered Jinx. Simon nodded his head in agreement. \u201cMe neither.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine, when we take the old man ashore. Bury him,\u201d ordered Boss as he walked away to gather his own things.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t take the men long to gather their belongings, each man was anxious to get off the island and as far away as they could. It would be dawn soon, and two men still had to row the older Cartwright to shore.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Just before daylight, Ben was allowed out of his box. Simon and Max had to help Ben pull himself up and hold him while he steadied himself. Ben squinted his eyes and rubbed at them, trying to bring back his clear vision. As he glanced around him, he saw that the men had broken up camp and were preparing to leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on?\u201d he asked, stumbling toward Joe\u2019s open grave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re leaving here. Your sons will be waiting for you by the falls,\u201d Boss explained. \u201cCome on, get in the boat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about my son?\u201d Ben asked sharply. \u201cI\u2019m not leaving him here\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss grabbed Ben\u2019s arm and spun him around, \u201cYour not taking him with you either. He stays Cartwright; once you meet up with your other sons you can come back here and get him. That will give us time enough to get far away from here. Now get in the boat!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was forced to march ahead of the Boss and Simon, each man helping him along with a not so gentle shove to his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph! I\u2019ll be back son, hang on!\u201d yelled Ben over his shoulder, praying that his son had heard him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Simon, when you and Max get to the falls, let Cartwright out and then meet us at that big bend down river,\u201d Boss instructed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, who had been sitting on the floor of the boat, snapped his head up, meeting the eyes of this man whom he had come to loath. \u201cWhat about my boy? How are we to get back here, to the island?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a canoe hidden in behind the falls. Use it, and Cartwright, thanks for your help!\u201d Boss tipped the rim of his hat and smiled at the dark scowl that Ben gave to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the boat made it\u2019s way out into open water, Ben could still hear the disreputable man\u2019s wicked laughter. The sound of his voice could be heard, far from the shore, as the night carried it\u2019s evil sound across the smooth, silent waters.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The men were just about ready to go, everything that could, had been loaded into the boat with Ben and Simon, the rest had been loaded into the one remaining boat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCover him up, make it fast,\u201d ordered Boss, smiling as Luke and Jinx began throwing shovel after shovel full of dirt into the opened grave. Talley stood beside of his boss and watched silently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope this doesn\u2019t take too long, we need to get the hell out of here,\u201d he grumbled, anxious to be on his way. The lure of having so much money to spend was making him nervous.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From the dark recesses of his mind, Joe could hear the loud thugs that hammered on the top of his box. His mind struggled to find it\u2019s way back to reality from where it had wandered to a no man\u2019s land where his fears had lain dormant for many hours. Now the thumping sounds were disturbing his tranquillity and forcing him to face anew, his inner weaknesses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d he heard himself calling. There was no answer, but the sound above him had grown strangely softer, like it was further away. Joe tried to raise his head, but he was so weak from lack of water and nourishment that he had only enough strength to hold his eyes open and mutter softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPapa\u2026papa\u2026\u201d Joe felt his brow bead with perspiration, and his breathing was becoming labored. It was as if his lungs were being denied oxygen. He began taking long drags, forcing air into his lungs. He struggled at his ropes that held his hands and reaching a near panic level, Joe began kicking his feet against the end of the coffin, in a futile attempt at escaping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Realization hit the frightened boy like a ton of falling rocks. The men\u2019s voices above him had virtually lowered to a near non-existent level. They were filling his grave!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO! NO! OH GOD, PLEASE HELP ME!\u201d he screamed loudly. \u201cPA! I can\u2019t help you now\u2026hell, I can\u2019t even help myself,\u201d cried Joe, the sting of tears burning his eyes as he took one last deep breath before collapsing into unconsciousness once more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough, that\u2019s enough,\u201d Boss finally shouted at the two men filling the grave. \u201cCome on, let\u2019s get going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke and Jinx tossed their shovels off to the side and hurried to join the others in the boats. Pushing the boat off and then jumping in, they grabbed the oars and quickly make their way into the deep dark waters and began rowing toward the bend. It would be mid- morning before they were to meet with Simon and Max. By then they would be well down river and with any luck, would be miles away before Ben Cartwright and his sons could return to the island, dig up their youngest and then get back to Virginia City to get help.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss and Talley smiled at one another, they had pulled off the biggest robbery ever attempted and succeeded. Their dreams of fortune had become reality, at least in their minds. If things went according to their plans, they would be well rid of their cohorts soon, and then could divide the money between just themselves. Boss nodded at Talley.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me row for awhile, Luke,\u201d offered Talley, taking the oar from the tired man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll relieve you Jinx,\u201d Boss said, surprising Jinx as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure Boss, I could use a little rest, especially after shovelin\u2019 all that dirt,\u201d said Jinx thankful for the reprieve from his duties.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Jinx and Luke stood to move, making room for their relief workers, Boss gave the signal and working as if one, he and Talley slammed the heavy oars onto the back of each man\u2019s head. Jinx\u2019s head burst opened, spewing bright red blood down his back as he toppled forward into the dark water. Luke staggered and Talley whammed him a second time on the back of the neck. Boss heard the cracking sound as the top of the spine broke and Luke fell face down into the silent water, joining his friend in a watery grave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Boss and Talley clicked the oars back into place and rowed away, never looking back at the bloody bodies slowly sinking out of sight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d shouted Hoss as he spied the boat rowing in nearer to the sandy shore. Hoss hurried to offer his hand to his father and helped him from the boat. Ben\u2019s feet were barely on dry land before Max and Simon had the boat floating away from the water\u2019s edge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Joe?\u201d demanded Adam in a thick, angry voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey made me leave him there\u2026\u201d Ben started to explain but was cut off by Adam\u2019s angry stomping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just how do we get back to that island and get him out of that damn box?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a canoe behind the falls. Please, Hoss, see if you can find it. We have to hurry, I\u2019m almost positive that bastard ordered his men to fill up the grave,\u201d Ben sputtered, trying to steady himself, his nerves and his enraged oldest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThose low down, sorry pieces of\u2026\u201d Adam caught himself before going too far. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa,\u201d he said, squatting down in front of this father. \u201cAre you okay? I mean, they didn\u2019t hurt you anymore, did they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, I\u2019m fine son, honest. I\u2019m worried sick about your brother. I heard a couple of the men say that Joe hasn\u2019t said a word in several hours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere is it Pa. Ya up to goin\u2019 back or do ya want to wait here and rest while Adam and I go?\u201d Hoss asked as he slipped the narrow canoe into the water and picked up the oars, handing one to his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m going with you!\u201d Ben said, standing to his feet and making his way to the canoe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam got in first and helped his father into the middle. Hoss waited until both his father and Adam were seated and then pushed the canoe off of the sand bar into the water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The canoe moved quickly and silently through the water. The slender long shape of the boat made maneuvering easy for the brothers that worked together as a team to stir the vessel smoothly, atop the blackened water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took less time than they had thought possible before reaching the island. Quickly all three jumped from the boat, Ben seemingly had found renewed strength, led the way to where the outlaws had placed Joe\u2019s body. His heart beat wildly as he eyes sought the grave, now half filled with dark, rich dirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear God!\u201d he bellowed, falling to his knees in a heap. \u201cMy baby, my baby!\u201d the retched cries sending the sparrows flying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, take it easy,\u201d urged Adam clamping his hand down on his father\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, looky, here\u2019s the shovels. Come on, maybe it\u2019s not too late.\u201d Hoss handed one shovel to his brother and quickly stepped into the half-filled grave and began throwing dirt over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced at his father and saw that Ben\u2019s dark, water filled eyes were glued to the grave. Adam stepped in with Hoss and seconds later dirt was flying in two different directions. Both young men worked feverishly, driven by love, fueled with determination until a short time later, the top of the pine box could be clearly seen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tossed aside his shovel and stooping down tried to pry the lid from the top. \u201cIt ain\u2019t budging,\u201d he told Adam. \u201cPa, hand me a hammer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben jumped to his feet and searched the area. Luck was on his side, under a bush he spied the remains of an old hammer. The wooden end had been broken, but the claw was still intact.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee if this works, it\u2019s all there is.\u201d Ben handed the hammer to Hoss who quickly began pulling nails from the cover.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHelp me lift the lid up, Adam.\u201d Hoss grunted once and yanked hard. The boards were thick and hard to pull up, but after a second try, Adam and Hoss had the cover removed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhew\u2026let\u2019s get him outta there,\u201d whispered Adam, giving his middle brother a worried look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Straddling the box, Adam pulled Joe by both arms and hauled him upward to Hoss who stood above, waiting to take Joe from his older brother. In one swift move, Joe was raised from the bottom of the box and gently guided to the ground at his father\u2019s feet. Hoss quickly removed the ropes that had held his brother prisoner and turned Joe onto his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben knelt on the ground, gathering his son into his arms. \u201cJoseph, Joseph,\u201d he whispered, brushing the sweat and particles of dirt from the thinning face. \u201cOpen your eyes, sweetheart, Pa\u2019s got you now,\u201d sobbed Ben, cradling his youngest son tightly to his breast.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh please, Joe, can you hear me?\u201d Ben began rocking back and forth, holding his precious child in his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, get him some water, hurry,\u201d instructed Adam. Adam watched his father\u2019s face and knew that Ben was nearing the breaking point and that it would be up to him to see that they all made it home in one piece.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, he\u2019s unconscious, he can\u2019t hear you. We have to get him home where the doctor can take a look at him.\u201d Adam placed his hand on Ben\u2019s shoulder. \u201cPa, did you hear what I said?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his head, looking, but not really seeing Adam\u2019s face. \u201cMy baby\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss returned with the water and Adam held the tin cup that Hoss had found, to his younger brother\u2019s lips and tipped it upward. At first the water dribbled down Joe\u2019s chin, but with Hoss\u2019 help, pinching open the dry, chapped lips, Joe managed to swallow a few drops.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d Hoss\u2019 face scrunched up, making a frown when he turned to Adam. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with Pa?\u201d he said to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure, but we need to get both of them home. Come on Hoss, help me, you carry Joe to the canoe and I\u2019ll take Pa.\u201d Adam moved to make room for Hoss to slip his arms under Joe\u2019s body in order to carry him. He had just about gotten his arms under Joe when his father snapped to life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d bellowed Ben in that deep roaring voice he often used when angry at one of his sons. \u201cI\u2019ll carry him!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben rose to his feet, bringing Joe up in this arms. Joe\u2019s head leaned into his father\u2019s chest as Ben quickly made his way to the canoe. Adam and Hoss wasted no time in following and were soon pushing the canoe off. Ben had placed himself in the floor of the boat with Joe\u2019s head resting in his lap. As Hoss and Adam rowed, they could hear their father whispering softly to their brother, encouraging him to open his eyes and speak to him. The pitiful sounds of his begging tore at each of his son\u2019s hearts. Ben was exhausted, and was running only on sheer willpower. Adam worried that Ben might even collapse before being able to get him home and in the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFaster Hoss,\u201d Adam muttered in a low voice. Hoss instantly glanced at his brother and followed Adam\u2019s slight nod of the head. Ben was crouched low over Joe\u2019s body, gently kissing the boy\u2019s forehead, his pleas to awaken becoming more intense and more urgent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss understood the silent message and began rowing like the devil was after them. The shore lay before them, beckoning them to hurry, and hurry they did. As the bottom of the canoe scraped against the ground, Hoss jumped out and pulled the boat ashore. Adam leaned over his father, who still clung to the unconscious body of the boy whom they all loved more than life itself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, we\u2019re back at the falls. We need to get Joe home, come on.\u201d Adam reached down, offering his hand to his father. Ben turned tired, dark eyes up at his son. Adam saw the weariness in his father\u2019s expression and it worried him. They had to hurry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, let Hoss take Joe now. We have our horses, and Joe can ride double with him. You can double with me. Please Pa, we have to go home now,\u201d Adam urged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gently pried his father\u2019s hands and fingers from around Joe and gently lifted his brother into his arms and passed him to Hoss. Ben watched the proceedings silently but took Adam\u2019s hand when offered to him. Adam gently pulled Ben to his feet and then guided him to the horses. Ben climbed onto Sport and waited until Adam helped Hoss with Joe, covering the trembling form with a warm blanket from Hoss\u2019 bedroll.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were half way home when Joe began moaning softly. His head rested against Hoss\u2019 massive chest. The strong arms of his brother prevented Joe from sliding from the saddle as the prodded along.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026take it easy Short Shanks, we\u2019ll be home soon,\u201d whispered Hoss, gently rubbing one hand up and down Joe\u2019s arm. \u201cWon\u2019t be much longer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had fallen to sleep in the saddle, his head was slumped forward and it took all of Adam\u2019s strength to keep his father upright in front of him. He could hear the soft sounds that his brother was making and was afraid that Joe might wake up and be totally confused before they were able to get him home and comfortable in his own bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The piteous sounds grew louder, and more distinct. \u201cPa\u2026gotta help\u2026Pa.\u201d Joe cried, beginning to struggle against Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026Joe, its okay pal, Pa\u2019s right behind us. Ole Hoss will have ya home in a just a few more minutes.\u201d Hoss cast worried eyes back at Adam and who was having his own problems with their father. Ben had begun to mumble as well, calling out to Joe in his delirium.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head at Hoss, and urged his mount to quicken the pace. Hoss took the hint and did the same.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing must have sensed their arrival. He stood waiting in the yard when the boys rode in and with him stood the sheriff and Clem along with several of their hired men. The men quickly took the horses and helped Adam and Hoss get Joe and Ben into the house. Adam ordered one of the men to ride into town to bring out the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was quickly taken straight to his room and carefully placed on his bed. Two of the men, led by Hoss helped Ben to his room. Ben had awakened and though tired and worn, would not be forced to his bed, but demanded in a none-too-quiet voice, to be allowed into Joe\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Already Hop Sing and Adam had begun to strip the soiled and smelly clothing from Joe\u2019s body. Hot water was brought into the room and as Ben positioned himself at the head of the bed, Hop Sing and Adam washed and cleaned the battered body thoroughly and then placed Joe under several layers of clean warm blankets.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben brushed his fingers through the dark wavy curls that crowned his youngest son\u2019s head. Leaning down he kissed the tender, bruised flesh on his son\u2019s brow and whispered words of encouragement into Joe\u2019s ears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyelids fluttered but the eyes remained closed tightly. His head tossed from side to side, and his muttering grew steadily, but the only words that were recognizable were Pa, Pa, and Pa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here son, I\u2019m here,\u201d repeated Ben, each time that Joe called for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul arrived just before dark and hurried into the room. He took one look at his patient, then at Ben and quickly set about tending to each one. Joe had been made relatively comfortable, though he continued to toss about and call out for his father. Ben on the other hand looked like warmed over death, and this concerned the physician.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking at Adam, he declared Ben unfit to remain in the room. \u201cGet him to his own room, now. And see that he is bathed and in his bed by the time that I am finished in here. Hop Sing, go with them and see that my orders are carried out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, Mr. Doctor.\u201d Hop Sing bowed and motioned for Adam and Hoss to bring their father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m needed here. I can\u2019t leave him\u2026what if he wakes up and I\u2019m not here. NO! Adam\u2026Hoss, take your hands off of me\u2026NOW!\u201d shouted Ben, fighting with the hands that pawed his body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen,\u201d Paul said calmly as he stood nose to nose with the patriarch. \u201cListen to me, please. I assure you, Joseph will not be waking up for several hours. I am going to give him something to help him rest. I want you to get some sleep, so that when he does wake up and need you, you will be in better condition to help him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo buts, Ben. Here, drink this,\u201d Paul quickly mixed a sleeping powder in a glass of water and handed it to his friend. \u201cI want you to drink this, take a warm bath, and if you\u2019re not asleep by then, eat a little something. Let me care for your son until you can. Trust me, Ben, please,\u201d Paul said softly. \u201cI have done it for many years, I won\u2019t let anything happen to your baby Ben, I promise.\u201d Paul smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned the glass up and returned the smile. \u201cI\u2019m holding you to that, old friend.\u201d Taking one more glance at Joe, Ben pursed his lips tightly, fighting the tears that threatened to spring into his eyes, and willingly followed Adam and Hoss from the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben did as Paul had suggested, his warm bath seemed to calm him and clear his mind where he could think and focus on the situation at hand. As he crawled into bed, Hop Sing appeared at his door, with a tray of food for him. His nose instantly picked up the aroma that floated in the air, causing his stomach to growl. He hadn\u2019t realized just how hungry he was, until Hop Sing placed the tray across his lap and removed the napkin, revealing his meal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis looks, and smells wonderful, thank you Hop Sing,\u201d smiled Ben. Ben grabbed the spoon and scooped up the steaming hot soup, placing the spoon to his mouth, he suddenly stopped and glanced around the room at the faces that watched.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI feel very guilty, eating this, knowing that Joe has been starved for nearly three days,\u201d he muttered sadly and set the spoon back on the tray.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, look,\u201d said Adam, closing the distance between himself and the side of his father\u2019s bed. Adam placed a reassuring hand on Ben\u2019s shoulder. \u201cPaul says that Joe needs to rest right now. He\u2019s already spoon fed him some broth that Hop Sing fixed just for Little Joe and the boy took it without too much resistance.\u201d Adam sat down in the chair close to the bed. \u201cHe\u2019s going to be fine Pa, really,\u201d added Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stared into his son\u2019s dark hazel eyes to assure himself that Adam was correct in his assumption. \u201cYou\u2019re positive that Joe ate? I can\u2019t stand the thoughts of what those men did to him. Ben had to swallow the thickness that had sudden squeezed his throat. \u201cYou have no idea how it made me feel, seeing my son stuffed into that box, beaten and tied like he was. The fear I saw in those beautiful eyes, will haunt me for the rest of my life\u2026and just knowing that I could do nothing\u2026nothing Adam, to help my son!\u201d Ben took a deep breath to steady himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, take it easy, try not to get yourself worked up. Joe\u2019s home now, he\u2019s safe and I promise you, if it\u2019s the last thing I ever do, those men will pay for what they did to Joe and to you.\u201d Adam stood up, his eyes growing dark with anger, as he thought about the abuse, both physical and emotional, that had been done to his youngest brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow hold on just a minute, young man, and that goes for you too, Ben. What you are contemplating is wrong, it is my duty to bring those varmints in and the court\u2019s duty to charge them.\u201d Roy had been waiting for a chance to speak with Ben about what had happened and had just entered the bedroom in time to hear Adam declare his revenge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam spun around on his toes, meeting Roy with an angry glare. \u201cThen do something, and do it quick!\u201d he snapped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, son, now you calm down. Roy\u2019s right of course, it is his job to hunt them down and bring them in for trial,\u201d Ben explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam faced his father. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa, Roy, it\u2019s just that\u2026well\u2026Joe is like my own\u2026son,\u201d Adam glanced at his father and smiled slightly. \u201cAnd I can\u2019t stand to see the boy suffering like he is.\u201d Adam stepped up to the sheriff and placed a hand on his shoulder. \u201cYou talk to Pa, I\u2019ll be in Joe\u2019s room, Roy, if you need to speak to me about anything. Hoss and I will ride with you when you\u2019re ready to go after that gang.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy\u2019s head bobbed up and down in agreement. \u201cThank you Adam, I knew I could count on you. I\u2019ll let you and Hoss know when I\u2019m ready to leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned back to Ben, \u201cEat something Pa, before it gets cold and Hop Sing gets back up here.\u201d Adam smiled and for the first time in days, the glow had returned to his eyes. \u201cYou don\u2019t want him to return to China\u2026again\u2026do you?\u201d he laughed softly as he made his way through the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, wait,\u201d called out Ben. \u201cPlease, wake me if Joe should call for me,\u201d he requested as Adam stuck his head back around the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry Pa, I promise, now eat and then get some sleep, man, you\u2019re almost as bad a patient as your youngest son!\u201d teased Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam returned to his brother\u2019s room, feeling somewhat better about things. He knew that Roy was more than capable of doing his job and that he had no need to worry. He and Hoss had already discussed their options and had agreed that when the sheriff and his posse went searching for the men who had caused so much mental anguish on their family, they would join forces with the sheriff to see that justice was served.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was sleeping as Adam settled himself in the old chair and picked up a book to read. He was having a difficult time focusing his attention on the written pages; his eyes constantly sought his brother\u2019s face. What he saw there, bothered the oldest of the three brothers. Joe\u2019s face was thin and pale; he had dark circles under his eyes, and bruises across his jaw line and on one cheek where he had so obviously been struck repeatedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam could not stop from brushing back the wayward curls that had dropped onto Joe\u2019s brow. His heart fluttered as his fingers caressed the tender flesh and hearing Joe\u2019s soft whimper caused Adam\u2019s eyes to sting. Quickly he brushed at them to stop the tears from forming, he couldn\u2019t cry, he wouldn\u2019t, he told himself. He had to remain strong, for his family, and for himself he silently confessed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The long night dragged on; Ben finally woke sometime near dawn and had managed to slip from his bed and into Joe\u2019s bedroom. He smiled when he spied Adam, sleeping in the chair, an open book lain across his lap, and his right hand resting on his brother\u2019s left arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gently touched his oldest son\u2019s shoulder. \u201cAdam,\u201d he whispered, not wanting to startle Adam or wake Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes instantly opened and looking up, smiled sheepishly at his father. \u201cWhat are you doing out of bed?\u201d he asked, straightening himself in the chair and then quickly glancing at his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t stand it anymore, I had to see for myself that he was really here,\u201d smiled Ben. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you go to bed for a little while, son. There\u2019s still a couple of hours before daybreak, I\u2019ll sit with your brother for awhile.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood and stretched, raising his arms high over his head. \u201cThanks Pa, I think I\u2019ll take you up on that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben made himself comfortable in the chair that Adam had vacated and watched his youngest son sleep. Joe\u2019s eyes flickered about under the eyelids that hid from Ben, the beautiful shade of green of his son\u2019s eyes. Joe was dreaming, and his worried father could only pray that it was something pleasant, rather than a nightmare forming in the back of Joe\u2019s tortured mind. Ben\u2019s eyes stayed trained on his son\u2019s face, watching carefully for any signs that might tell him that Joe would be in need of his comfort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing appeared unannounced in the doorway with a breakfast tray for Ben. As he set it on the table, and Ben moved around the chair, a heart-piercing scream shattered the blissful morning calm of the Cartwright home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben jumped, spilling his hot coffee down the front of his shirt. Hop Sing dropped the dish of scrambled eggs down on the tray with a loud bang, bringing both Adam and Hoss scurrying from their beds to join Ben at their brother\u2019s bedside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was thrashing about on the bed, his arms flinging haphazardly around in the air as if seeking a stronghold in which to grasp. His cries where loud and piteous and it took his father and both brothers to keep the youngest Cartwright from falling out of the bed and into the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! PA! I gotta help him\u2026please\u2026let me out!\u201d Joe sobbed. \u201cGet me outta here!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, son, it\u2019s okay, you\u2019re home now. Joe, please wake up, Pa\u2019s right here sweetheart, I\u2019m fine,\u201d Ben repeated as he pressed Joe\u2019s weakened body back onto the soft bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood at the foot of the bed and watched his baby brother fight the hands that had always brought such comfort to each of them. His wide eyes filled with tears as he watched Joe\u2019s own tears slip from the corners of his tormented eyes and roll down, onto the crisp, white pillowcase beneath his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat on the opposite side of the bed, aiding his father in restraining his brother. \u201cTake it easy little buddy, everything is okay now. Joe, can you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t breathe\u2026help me,\u201d moaned Joe. \u201cI\u2019m suffocating\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, take some deep breaths son,\u201d Ben instructed, his hand gently brushing at Joe\u2019s tear stained cheeks. \u201cDeep breaths, son, that\u2019s it. Let them out slowly, good.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced up at Adam, his eyes troubled and sad. \u201cHe doesn\u2019t realize yet, that he\u2019s even home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know Pa, but give him time,\u201d Adam whispered, glad to see that Joe was beginning to calm down and go back to sleep. Adam pulled the blankets back up to Joe\u2019s chin and carefully tucked them around the frail body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced up at Hoss who had said nothing until now. \u201cI\u2019ve got chores to do, and then I\u2019m ridin\u2019 into town to see what Roy\u2019s adoin\u2019 about this.\u201d He nodded his head toward Joe, brushed away the dampness from his face stomped from the room without another word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d Ben called.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet him go, Pa. I think I\u2019ll ride into town with him. That is if you think you can manage here okay?\u201d Adam nodded at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019ll be fine, Hop Sing is here if I need any help. I\u2019d like to know what Roy\u2019s got planned as well. Keep me informed son as much as possible,\u201d Ben instructed. \u201cI\u2019ll be right back, I need to change my shirt, this coffee is hot,\u201d he half smiled, pulling the shirt off as he slipped from the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss rode out about mid-morning, Ben watched from the upstairs bedroom where he had settled in for the day. He hoped that Roy had been able to pick up a trail, he had given the sheriff all the information he could about what Boss and Talley had talked about, that and with what little Hoss and Adam could add to the story, Ben hoped that it would be enough.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The worst part was that the gang had used boats to float down the river and by doing that, a sure trail would make tracking the band of robbers, next to impossible until Roy could find where the men put to shore. It could take days; maybe even weeks of searching before a clue could be found, maybe never, Ben sighed deeply. Then, what would become of them? Would he be forced into selling everything that he had worked a lifetime to accumulate, would his sweat and blood and years of hard work be gone in a flash?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe moaned softly, drawing his father\u2019s attention away from his woes. Ben placed his hand on Joe\u2019s arm, feeling the warm flesh beneath his fingers. Tenderly Ben allowed his fingers to brush up and down his son\u2019s arm. No, he thought, what did all of his earthly wealth mean, had he not had his son back safely. Nothing was more important or dear to heart than his sons, especially this youngest son, who needed him so much more right now than his older sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Joseph,\u201d Ben whispered softly, not really caring that Joe could not hear him, but just voicing the words aloud, brought a measure of comfort to his heart and soul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss returned just before suppertime, exhausted and dirtied, covered with trail dust. Adam stood just outside of the door, dusting his black trousers with his hands as Hoss slapped both legs with his hat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI sure am beat,\u201d groaned Hoss, straightening to his full height.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, me too, and hungry,\u201d said Adam, giving his hands a swift brushing down his pants legs before opening the front door, unaware of what had just transpired between his father and younger brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe woke with a start; fear etched itself into every feature of his face. His eyes were wide, opened to the fullest as they frantically searched the room for whatever or whoever he was looking for.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Driven by unknown sources, Joe kicked the blankets from around his legs and using his fists, flung them to the floor in a heap as he dragged his body from the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! PA!\u201d bellowed Joe, taking his father by surprise as Ben entered the room carrying a tray with Joe\u2019s supper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Instantly Ben placed the tray onto the nearest table available and moved to gather his wailing son into his arms, attempting to put the boy back into the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, it\u2019s okay son, I\u2019m here now,\u201d Ben tried to soothe the frightened lad.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe struggled against the arms that prevented him from going where he seemed determined to go. \u201cLet go of me, my pa\u2026my pa\u2026I gotta help him\u2026he needs me!\u201d sobbed Joe, pushing at Ben\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo Joseph, it\u2019s okay, it\u2019s okay, I\u2019m here\u2026I\u2019m fine son\u2026JOSEPH\u2026look at me!\u201d yelled Ben trying to reach through the fog that seemed to block his son\u2019s rational thinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLET GO OF ME!\u201d hollered Joe at the top of his lungs. \u201cI gotta find my pa\u2026\u201d Joe shoved Ben backwards, pushing his father into the wall as he struggled to find a way to remove this man\u2019s vise like grip on his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, stop fighting me son, please\u2026\u201d Ben pushed back from the wall, making Joe take several staggering steps backward, toward the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cListen to me, son,\u201d continued Ben easing Joe to the bed and making him to sit. \u201cLie down, please Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe seemed to have relaxed for a brief moment and Ben lessened the hold he had maintained on his son\u2019s arms. It was a mistake, Joe jerked his left arm free, and folding his hand into a fist, swung out and clipped Ben on the end of his chin. Ben\u2019s head snapped back, causing him to wobble backward. Joe must have sensed that he had just gained his freedom, for he bolted for the opened door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI gotta help my pa\u2026\u201d he shouted as he ran barefooted down the hall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH FRANICS CARTWRIGHT, YOU STOP RIGHT NOW!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The deep bellowing voice echoed throughout the empty house. Joe suddenly froze, halfway down the stairs and turned toward the sound of the now familiar voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA?\u201d shouted Joe, taking one step at a time, very slowly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA?\u201d he yelled a little louder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, help me son\u2026please help me.\u201d Ben had heard the change in his son\u2019s voice and realized that by shouting out his name and then calling for help, he had caught the disoriented and frightened boy\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Ben\u2019s voice was calm as he slowly raised from the spot where he had fallen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHelp me son,\u201d Ben said, spying Joe standing in the doorway. Ben held his hand out to Joe, waiting, hoping, and praying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stared at the man in the floor; tears billowed in his eyes as recognition began to dawn on him. Instantly Joe was on his knees, taking his father\u2019s hand into his.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026you\u2019re all right,\u201d wept Joe, pulling Ben into a tight embrace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, son, I\u2019m all right,\u201d whispered Ben, wrapping his arms about his weeping son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Pa\u2026Pa\u2026\u201d Joe began to sob as Ben tightened his hold. \u201cI thought\u2026I thought they had killed you\u2026I tried to\u2026help you\u2026but I couldn\u2019t\u2026get out\u2026of\u2026of\u2026oh Pa\u2026hold me, hold me\u2026please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe buried his head against Ben\u2019s chest and sobbed out his misery. Tears threatened to fill Ben\u2019s dark eyes as well, but he willed them away, choosing instead to hold his emotions in check.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben allowed Joe to cry for several moments and then gently pulled the boy to his feet, holding tightly to the trembling body. Ben carefully led Joe to the bed, where he lowered Joe enough so that his son was sitting on the edge. Ben sat down next to Joe, and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEverything\u2019s going to be fine now, son. We\u2019re both home, and we\u2019re safe. Nothing is going to bother you again, I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swiped the back of his hand across his eyes and glanced up at his father. \u201cI\u2026I\u2026was so scared\u2026being in that coffin. I couldn\u2019t\u2026\u201d Joe sniffed his nose. \u201cIt was a like a bad dream\u2026I\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes filled with tears again and Ben watched as the tiny beads of water slipped silently down the sides of his son\u2019s already tear streaked face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s okay son, I understand. Why don\u2019t you just try to forget for a little while and get some rest? Please, lay down.\u201d Ben eased Joe back down into the bed and quickly pulled the blankets from the floor and covered his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t leave me, Pa\u2026please?\u201d Joe\u2019s misery was written all over his face as his eyes sought reassurance from his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t son, I promise. You close your eyes and rest, I\u2019ll be right here when you wake up,\u201d Ben whispered and gently brushed back the damp curls that had glued themselves to his son\u2019s brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was exhausted but his eyes refused to stray from his father\u2019s face as he fought the sleep that tried to claim him. \u201cPa,\u201d muttered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it son?\u201d Ben said, drawing near so that he could better hear what Joe was trying to tell him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026love you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben squeezed his eyes tightly together to will away his tears and swallowed the lump that had unexpectedly developed in his throat. When he opened his eyes and gazed down at his son, Joe was sleeping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d whispered Adam, slipping silently into the room, with Hoss close on his heels.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned toward the sound of his name, surprised to find his older sons standing in the doorway. Quickly he rose from his chair and motioned for Adam and Hoss to join him in the hallway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe heard shouting, what\u2019s going on?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, he snapped out of his delirium. He\u2019s knows who I am now, and what happened to him.\u201d Ben smiled and rubbed the sore spot on his chin. \u201cWalloped me good though, but it was worth is, it seemed to break through the maze that had trapped his mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s resting right now. Hopefully he won\u2019t have a relapse. How did you boys make out?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh golly Pa, ya won\u2019t believe everythin\u2019 that\u2019s happened. Why them two varmints, Talley and Boss, they dun kilt two of their own men. Roy found their bodies afloatin\u2019 in the river. Had their heads bashed in,\u201d explained Hoss excitedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMust have been Luke and Jinx, they were the ones that stayed behind while Simon and Max took me to the falls. What else did Roy find out? Did he locate Talley and the Boss? Those are the two men, I\u2019d like to get my hands on!\u201d snarled Ben, remembering how the scum had treated his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet Pa, but he has a pretty good idea where they are heading. Seems like they tried to do away with Simon and Max as well, but Max got away. Guess Boss decided not to waste time searching for the man, so they took off. Max was nearly dead by the time that we caught up with him and he told us everything he knew, about what they were planning,\u201d explained Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRoy is sending a wire to the police department in San Francisco, that\u2019s were Talley and Boss are suppose to be headed. With any luck, the department will be able to pick them up. Once they are apprehended, Roy can have them extradited back here to stand trial,\u201d smiled Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey have two accounts of kidnapping, robbery, three murder charges, four if Max dies, and a whole list of other things. They\u2019ll hang for sure, Pa, and I can\u2019t say that I\u2019m sorry for that,\u201d Adam said flatly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe neither, Pa, not after what them rascals dun to Little Joe,\u201d Hoss added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell boys, all I can say is that they will get their just reward, of that I am sure.\u201d Ben heard the soft whisper of his name and hurried back into the bedroom.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here Joe, what\u2019s wrong son? Are you hurting?\u201d asked Ben, brushing Joe\u2019s arm with his fingertips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I thought I heard voices. Is Adam and Hoss here?\u201d Joe muttered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey short shanks, we\u2019re right here,\u201d smiled Hoss stepping to his brother\u2019s bedside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey Hoss, hey Adam,\u201d Joe smiled weakly. \u201cWhere ya been?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced at his father, not sure just how much he should tell his brother about their absence. When Ben nodded his head, Adam agreed with the silent message.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe found a couple of those men, Joe, that had you and Pa. They were dead, apparently Talley and Boss murdered them,\u201d Adam told his brother. \u201cRoy\u2019s on the trail of the two leaders, hopefully we\u2019ll find out something about them, soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s expression suddenly changed and he glanced at his father, \u201cYou don\u2019t think they\u2019d come here, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard the anxiety in his son\u2019s voice and was quick to reassure him. \u201cNo, don\u2019t worry about that Joseph, those men are far, far away from here. Roy thinks they\u2019ve headed for San Francisco, they wouldn\u2019t dare stay around here, not with all of that gold they\u2019re toting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d It was all Joe said as he laid his head back into the soft pillow and glanced at the faces around him. \u201cI didn\u2019t know about the gold\u2026I was\u2026preoccupied.\u201d The boy smiled, however briefly, but it gave a measure of comfort to his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s nightmares waged war against his sleep. Most nights his father remained faithfully by his son\u2019s side while Joe struggled to get some rest. His piteous cries throughout the nights tore at Ben\u2019s heart. The reluctant father had even surrendered to sending for Doc Martin who gave the restless lad something to help him relaxed and sleep. But even during those times, when the effects began to wear away, Joe would awaken his family with his shrill cries, begging unknown ghostly figures to free him from his wooden box.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Night after night the dream stayed the same, Joe seeing his father beaten, he, himself beaten and tied, tossed face down into the hard, cold, thick pine box. His ears heard again and again, the pounding of the hammer as the long ten-penny nails were driven into the top, sealing his tormented body into the tight confines of his prison coffin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! PA!\u201d bellowed Joe, jarring Ben from his sleep where he had been resting on the small cot that had been brought into Joe\u2019s room, so that he might be near when his son needed him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben jumped to his feet, grappling for Joe\u2019s hands and arms that swung haphazardly about in mid-air. Ben managed to catch one arm and quickly slipped down on to the bed, embracing Joe around the shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026take it easy son, Pa\u2019s right here. You\u2019re fine Joseph, you\u2019re fine,\u201d repeated Ben until the mist had begun to clear from Joe\u2019s tormented mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s tear filled eyes sought his father\u2019s face. \u201cPa?\u201d he whispered softly, his breathing coming in short, gargling sounds.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben brushed away the tiny beads of water and tightened his hold around his son\u2019s shoulders. \u201cI\u2019m right here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was dreaming\u2026\u201d Joe gulped and glanced sideways at his father. \u201cI was in\u2026in that box\u2026I couldn\u2019t get\u2026out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben eased Joe back down on the pillow and covered Joe\u2019s trembling body that had begun to shiver. \u201cI know\u2026son, listen, it was a terrible thing they did to you. I understand that, and I understand that it will take some time for you to get over what happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if I can, Pa. I\u2026I was so scared.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben noted the catch in his son\u2019s voice and saw the haunted look that crossed the young handsome face. \u201cJoseph, I was scared too, not just for myself, but for you as well. Remember, I am your father, I know your strengths and your weaknesses, I understand you probably more than any other person does, and yourself included. I know that you were terrified, and rightly so, there is no shame in being afraid, please remember that, Joseph. And don\u2019t condemn your self for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am ashamed, I cried like a baby\u2026God, Pa\u2026I can\u2019t even sleep all night without waking you and everyone else up screaming like I was a little boy again,\u201d sobbed Joe. \u201cI mean\u2026I try not to wake you\u2026but in all honesty, I can\u2019t stand the thoughts of you not being right here in the room with me! What\u2019s wrong with me Pa? When will it stop?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe balled up his fists and beat the mattress on either side of him until, exhausted, he stopped. Wiping the tears from his eyes, he looked deeply into the dark loving eyes of his father and spoke softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell me what to do, please Pa, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I believe that every man has, in his reserve, an inner strength that he may or may not even be aware that he has. When something as horrible as what happened to you, tries to destroy a man, it\u2019s only natural for that person to become frightened, scared, even terrified. But it\u2019s just as natural for that man to fight for survival, and sometimes, when things are really, really unbearable, that man has to draw from deep within one\u2019s own self and pull from that inner core, the strength and courage that it takes to move beyond the terrible thing that has happened. You have that inner resource, son. I have seen you draw from it time and time again, and most of the time, you were unaware that you were doing so. Use it now, draw from it, make it work for you. If you give in to your fears, those men would have succeeded in destroying you, is that what you want? To live the rest of your life in fear of\u2026your fears?\u201d Ben gave his son an encouraging smile and waited while Joe sorted out his words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not. But how, I mean how do I get past this?\u201d muttered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMinute by minute, hour by hour, one day at a time, son if that\u2019s what it takes\u2026and you know that your brothers and I are here for you Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know you are, Pa. You don\u2019t have to remind me of that, you and Adam and Hoss have always stood by me.\u201d Joe smiled, \u201cGuess there\u2019s something good about being the youngest after all, heh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed softly, \u201cI suppose so, but youngest or oldest, we are family and we have always stuck together, and been there for one another, regardless of the circumstances.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a good feeling\u2026I mean to know that when you\u2019re at your lowest, there\u2019s still someone who cares and wants the best for you.\u201d Joe turned dark hazel eyes up and met darker brown ones. \u201cThanks, Pa,\u201d he whispered as he snuggled down into the comforts of his bed. \u201cI think maybe I can sleep now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood to his feet and tucked the covers around his son. \u201cGood night Joseph, I\u2019ll be right here if you need me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, why don\u2019t you go to bed too, in your own room? I\u2019ll be okay now\u2026\u201d Joe pressed his lips into a tight smile, \u201cbut if I need ya, I\u2019ll holler for ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right son. Sleep tight, and God bless,\u201d smiled Ben as he slipped from the room, a silent prayer on his lips, that God in His infinite wisdom, would provide his son with the comfort and strength to overcome his nightly hallucinations.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his head, hearing the slight noise on the landing. His face broke into a happy smile as he watched his youngest son make his way across the room and slide into his chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good morning,\u201d greeted Ben, his dark eyes dancing happily. \u201cIt\u2019s a welcomed sight you are.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Pa. I thought it was time I ate down here, with you. I\u2019m tired of eating alone in my bedroom.\u201d Joe offered a bright smile, \u201cI didn\u2019t think you\u2019d mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, on the contrary, I am happy to have your company. I\u2019ve\u2026missed you, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt the rush of color to his cheeks and dropped his head just enough to prevent his father from seeing his face. \u201cWhen\u2019s Adam and Hoss coming home?\u201d he asked in an attempt to change the subject.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had known that his brothers had gone to San Francisco, he had heard Roy talking to them about the police department there getting a lead on Talley and Boss. Joe looked expectantly up at his father, waiting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI got a wire late last night, after you were asleep. Seems that those two no-goods managed to rid themselves of two more partners, Simon and Max. Adam didn\u2019t say much, naturally, but did indicate that an arrest might be made soon,\u201d Ben explained as he passed the eggs to Joe, who heaped a generous portion onto his plate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood\u2026I mean about the arrest. Though in all honesty, I can\u2019t say I\u2019m not happy about those other two.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stopped his coffee mid-way to his lips. \u201cIt\u2019s never a good thing Joe, when a man dies and has not prepared himself to meet his God.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe quickly turned to face his father, surprise written across his face. \u201cI know that,\u201d he said softly, \u201cI\u2019m not that callus, yet. I just meant that\u2026that, well\u2026if\u2026\u201d stammered Joe, unsure of how to phrase his words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben let out a small breath, \u201cI understand son, no need for you to explain, really,\u201d he smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Two days later, Joe stood at the hitching rail, tightening the cinch on his saddle when the sounds of pounding hooves caused him to raise his head. From across the top of Cochise\u2019s back, Joe smiled to himself as he watched his two older brothers slide from their mounts and toss the leather reins around the hitching post.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, will ya lookit this,\u201d teased Hoss, gathering Joe into a bear hug. \u201cHow ya been?\u201d laughed Hoss as he spun Joe around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam came around the end of his horse, laughing. \u201cDon\u2019t hurt him, Hoss, we won\u2019t ever get any work out of him, if you do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I\u2019ve been doing my share, and yours too for the last few days,\u201d grumbled Joe in good spirits.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw shucks, Joe, ya ain\u2019t never dun\u2026\u201d began Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, now, young man, I\u2019ll have you know that your little brother has worked hard since Doc let him out of that bed. He\u2019s worked from sunup till sundown,\u201d beamed Ben, obviously very proud of the fact that Joe had indeed indulged himself in his work. \u201cLet\u2019s go a little easy on him, now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, we\u2019ve got some news that might make you happy, Pa,\u201d smiled Adam. \u201cThe gold is being shipped back to the bank. The army is bringing it!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey,\u201d Ben slapped his son\u2019s shoulder, \u201cthat\u2019s wonderful news Adam. I have to admit, I was beginning to think we would be selling, if something didn\u2019t happen soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we talked to Roy, and Mr. Harrison at the bank, and Harrison said that once the gold was safely back, then the IOU you wrote, will be ripped up,\u201d Adam explained, pleased to see the look of relief spread across his father\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat is good news, son. Thank you,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m hungry, what\u2019s Hop Sing got fur supper?\u201d said Hoss, turning and sniffing his nose in the air. \u201cBaked ham and sweet potatoes, with fried hominy! Yummy am I hungry, come on, let\u2019s eat,\u201d laughed Hoss heading straight way to the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed and slinging an arm across his oldest son\u2019s shoulder, fell into step behind his middle son. Ben stopped after a few paces and allowed Adam to go ahead. \u201cAren\u2019t you coming, son?\u201d Ben asked, glancing back at Joe who was still with the horses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled, the glow shimmering in his eyes. \u201cI\u2019ll be in, in a few minutes, Pa. I think I\u2019ll stable the horses. Those brothers of mine look as if they could stand some of Hop Sing\u2019s good home cooking.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched his son\u2019s back as Joe led the horses to the barn. It would take months, maybe even longer, Ben knew, but Joe would be all right in time. He had found that inner core of strength that his father had told him he had hidden deep within him self and the boy had made good use of it. Nightmares might still haunt his nights, but now Joe was assured of his self, and his family\u2019s love and devotion, which Joe knew, were the key ingredients, needed to give him peace of mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben joined Hoss and Adam at the table, smiling at the food piled onto his middle son\u2019s plate. \u201cDid you leave anything for the rest of us, son?\u201d laughed Ben, happy to have his sons home once again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw shucks Pa\u2026\u201d stammered Hoss, \u201cI\u2019s hungry, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen eat up, there\u2019s plenty, I\u2019m sure,\u201d encouraged Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s not coming in?\u201d asked Adam, glancing toward the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s putting up the horses for you,\u201d smiled Ben. \u201cHe\u2019ll be in shortly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe seems to be doing okay. Still having nightmares?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBelieve it or not, he hasn\u2019t had one in about four or five nights. If he wakes up at all, I don\u2019t hear him,\u201d Ben responded. \u201cHe\u2019s really trying hard to over come what happened to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be fine Pa. If I know my little brother, he won\u2019t let this beat him,\u201d smiled Adam. \u201cAnd once those men are behind bars, he\u2019ll rest better for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll all rest better, big brother, not jist Little Joe. Them ole boys dun give me the wollies too, ya know.\u201d Hoss pointed his fork at Adam to add emphasis to his statement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen is the gold coming in, son?\u201d Ben asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShould be here day after tomorrow. Pa, we didn\u2019t want to say anything to you, in front of Joe, but the army is bringing back Talley and Boss when they bring the gold.\u201d Adam watched as his father\u2019s smile faded and knew that now Ben would worry about Little Joe and his reaction to the return of the men who had treated him so callously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI knew that eventually, those two would be back, to stand trial of course. I just wish Joseph didn\u2019t have to have anymore dealings with them, not this soon,\u201d Ben grumbled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No one appeared to have noticed when the front door opened and closed softly, nor did they notice when Joe slowly approached the table, until he spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay, I can handle it,\u201d the youngest of Ben\u2019s sons declared. \u201cAfter all, I have a winning team on my side, right Pa?\u201d smiled the handsome boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All heads turned to face Joe surprised by the smile that he wore. \u201cWell, am I right?\u201d he said as he slipped into his regular place at the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, son, you certainly are right. We are a team.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And they were right, when it came time for Joe to be sworn in to give witness to all that had transpired he did himself, and his family proud. With Ben\u2019s own words to back up his son\u2019s testimony, the two conniving thieves were convicted of not just robbery, but four accounts of murder, fraud, kidnapping and a whole slew of other charges. Within a week, both men were hung, the gold was safely back in Mr. Harrison\u2019s bank vault and the IOU signed by Ben Cartwright, guaranteeing his son\u2019s safety, was returned to Ben in many ripped up pieces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The gallows stood empty, silent now, it was over. Two men had paid with their lives for the evil that they had committed against others. Neither had been prepared to face their maker. Ben\u2019s words from weeks before, stuck in Joe\u2019s mind as he ambled slowly toward his horse and glanced back at the gallows in solemn retrospect just before swinging into the saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right, son?\u201d asked Ben, noting the unsettling look on Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right? Yes, Pa\u2026I\u2019m all right.\u201d Joe smiled, his heart appeared in his eyes, and without asking, Ben knew that Joe was<\/em> all right, with everything within his life, and with his God.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

THE END<\/strong><\/p>\n

February 2003<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0When a gang of thieves take Ben and Joe as their prisoners, each must draw on their own inner strengths to survive.<\/p>\n

Rating: \u00a0PG-13\u00a0 (22,100 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":10192,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,1008],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12152","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/A-H.jpg?fit=276%2C284&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12152","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/9052"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=12152"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12152\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/10192"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12152"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12152"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12152"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}