{"id":12249,"date":"2004-10-01T07:31:18","date_gmt":"2004-10-01T11:31:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12249"},"modified":"2026-07-30T14:41:56","modified_gmt":"2026-07-30T18:41:56","slug":"love-is-like-a-violin-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12249","title":{"rendered":"Love is Like a Violin (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong>\u00a0Ben sends Adam and Joe off together in hopes that the brothers can mend some fences…but not the wooden kind.<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/strong>\u00a0 PG (mild violence)\u00a0 (12, 730 words)<\/p>\n

Love is Like a Violin<\/strong><\/p>\n

Love is like a violin,
\nthe music may stop now and then,
\nbut the strings remain forever.
\n\u201cWhy? Just tell me why I have to be the one to go with him? And to Oblivion no less!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I said so\u2026and because I think it would be good for both of you to spend a few days together\u2026alone\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo buts, young man, you will do as I say!\u201d<\/p>\n

The young man gritted his teeth and turned his back to his father. His eyes were fiery darts of blazing anger.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t deserve this,\u201d he growled angrily.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you think I do?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright spun around and glared at the handsomely dark figure of his oldest brother and wished that he could wipe the smirk off his older sibling\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cPersonally, I think both of you are getting exactly what you each deserve,\u201d Ben said as he moved from around his desk to stand between his eldest and youngest sons. He put a hand on each of their shoulders and looked from one angry face into the other.<\/p>\n

\u201cA few days alone together should give each of you time to come to your senses\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGreat,\u201d snarled Joe as he shot Adam a menacing look and then pulled away from his father\u2019s touch.<\/p>\n

He pointed his finger at Adam. \u201cA few days alone with him\u2026and I\u2019ll be ready to leave home\u2026forever!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe turned to face his father. \u201cIf that\u2019s what you want, fine\u2026I\u2019ll go\u2026but don\u2019t expect me to come home with him!\u201d<\/p>\n

Before Ben could say another word, Joe stomped off, running up the stairs, taking them two at a time.<\/p>\n

Ben blew a puff of air from his lungs and turned to Adam. Adam held both hands up in front of him and shook his head at his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t look at me\u2026all I did was try to warn him and he turned on me. Now, just because I tried to keep him from getting hurt, or hurting someone else\u2026I get sentenced to two weeks of having to endure his bad moods. Thanks, Pa\u2026thanks for nothing,\u201d Adam said with more calm than what he was actually feeling.<\/p>\n

Adam left his father alone and went out to the barn where he could think things through. He had already made plans on making the trip to Oblivion, the furthermost line shack on the ranch, so that had not bothered him, what troubled him was when his father had informed him that his youngest brother would be going along as well. Already Adam was dreading the next few days. Having to spend so much time alone with his hot-headed, bad-tempered kid brother, was exactly what his father had intended it to be\u2026punishment.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m a grown man,\u201d muttered Adam to himself, \u201cand I get punished like a boy\u2026a snot nosed kid\u2026like Joe\u2026damn!\u201d
\nUpstairs, Joe was just as dissatisfied as his older brother in the barn. Joe paced around the room, gathering his gear and clothing and items he\u2019d need to stay halfway comfortable on the long ride to Oblivion and the stay once they arrived. His brow was drawn into a frown as he flung rather than packed his things into his bedroll.<\/p>\n

\u201cMe\u2026it\u2019s always me\u2026I\u2019m wrong, he\u2019s right. Mr. Righteous\u2026Mr. Adam Righteous Cartwright\u2026God\u2026why me?? Why, of all the brothers in the whole wide world, did he have to be mine? It\u2019s just not fair!\u201d
\nHoss stood with his father in the yard and watch as his brothers rode away. When they were out of sight, the big man turned and with a half grin on his face, said to his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cNeither one looked to happy, especially Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben could not stop the smile that sprung up unexpectedly. He turned back toward the house, his arm casually draped across Hoss\u2019 massive shoulders.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t expect either of them to be,\u201d he said. \u201cBut let\u2019s give them a few days, they\u2019ll find themselves. By the time they come home, I have an idea they will feel differently,\u201d Ben smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, by that?\u201d Hoss asked, more curious now than before.<\/p>\n

\u201cSimple, Hoss\u2026a wise man once said, \u2018Love is like a violin. The music may stop now and then, but the strings remain forever\u2019. It\u2019s like that with your brothers, son. They love one another, but sometimes they forget just how much they do care. Like now\u2026they think they can\u2019t stand the other, but like the strings of the violin, the love is still there\u2026they just have to find it again.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss noted the twinkle in the dark eyes and he couldn\u2019t help but wonder just what it was his father had cooked up for his two quarreling siblings. Whatever Ben thought might happen between his sons, Hoss reckoned it better happen soon before things got so outta hand that one killed the other. Strings, love, violin, whatever\u2026Pa meant by that\u2026Hoss knew only one thing, Adam and Joe were at it again, and it had been going on for over a week now and things were quickly coming to a head.<\/p>\n

Hoss laughed as he entered the house behind his father. \u201cSay, Pa\u2026ain\u2019t no reason why me and you couldn\u2019t just relax a bit, is there? And maybe do a little fishin\u2019 while them two are off \u2018findin\u2019 themselves\u2019\u2026 ain\u2019t that what ya said they were gonna be doin\u2019?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe should stop pretty soon,\u201d Adam called over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

They had traveled in silence for miles, ever since they had left the house. The silence was welcomed at first. Adam had enjoyed it, but as the day passed and Joe remained sullen and withdrawn, Adam had felt the strain between them becoming almost unbearable.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt will be dark soon. There\u2019s a clearing up ahead, we can set up camp there\u2026it\u2019s about half-way, how is that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam waited so long for a response from Joe, that when one failed to reach his ears, he pulled back on Sport\u2019s reins and came to a complete halt.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you hear what I said, Joe?\u201d Adam said in a gruff voice. \u201cOr are you purposely ignoring me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam had thought his bad mood had passed, but with his brother\u2019s rudeness, Adam discovered that he still wasn\u2019t any happier about his plight of having to be saddled with a brooding, bad-tempered, ill-mannered snip of a boy.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell?\u201d growled Adam, \u201cI asked you a blasted question!\u201d Adam was amazed at how quickly his younger brother could bring out the worst in him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m purposely ignoring you. Camp where you like, I couldn\u2019t care less\u2026just as long as it\u2019s not anywhere near me!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe kicked at his horse\u2019s sides and prodded ahead of his older brother. Behind him, the packhorse grunted and reluctantly followed in tow.<\/p>\n

Adam clenched his jaw tightly and ran his hand over his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cGod\u2026why me?\u201d he beseeched softly as he turned his head upward.
\nAdam stopped in the clearing as planned. Joe had arrived a short time beforehand and had already unsaddled his mount for the night and had begun setting up camp. Adam noticed that Joe had set his bed gear a good ways off from the ring of stones that he had set in a circle for their fire.<\/p>\n

Amazed that the boy had accomplished so much in such a short span of time, he started to compliment his brother but decided against it.<\/p>\n

\u2018Why should I?\u2019 Adam told himself, \u2018Joe has not said one word to me the entire day except when he was asked about stopping for the night\u2026and then I got my head bit off,\u2019 Adam determined.<\/p>\n

Letting the matter drop, Adam quickly unsaddle his horse and took the cooking utensils from the pack on the horse and set about starting supper for the two of them. Once he had the fire blazing, he stood, glanced at Joe and set off toward the creek in search of a fish or two.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll catch us some fish for supper, you keep that fire hot,\u201d he called over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

Joe, whose back was to his brother spun around. \u201cDon\u2019t bother, I don\u2019t want any of your old fish.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam stopped in his tracks and turned back to face Joe. \u201cSuit yourself, but mind if I ask, what are you planning on eating?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe, suddenly realizing the late hour, almost regretted his hasty remark. \u2018I\u2019ll be darned if I\u2019ll take it back,\u2019 he told himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry yourself about me\u2026not that you would\u2026I\u2019ll snare me a rabbit\u2026maybe even two.\u201d
\nAn hour later, Joe walked slowly into the camp shoulders slumped and with a defeated look on his young, handsome face. The smell of frying fish reached his nostrils and made his stomach rumble. He could almost taste the trout now\u2026not that he had any plans of doing so, but the aroma that lingered in the air served to remind him that it had been hours since he\u2019d had breakfast.<\/p>\n

Adam watched from the corner of his eye as Joe fringed being busy. He noted that his brother had come back empty handed, and from the sour look on the boy\u2019s face, Adam knew that Joe wasn\u2019t likely to admit that he had failed at snaring a hare for his supper. The older and wiser one also was well aware of the fact that the younger, less experienced young man, was not likely to humble himself enough to ask for one of the fishes that fried slowly in the hot skillet.<\/p>\n

Joe silently cursed himself for having spoken too quickly. His back was to his brother and to the crackling fire that burned beneath the iron skillet where Adam\u2019s fish cooked. Willing his gut to stop churning, Joe laid down on his bedroll, keeping his back to the fire and to Adam.<\/p>\n

\u2018Maybe if I\u2019m lucky, I\u2019ll fall asleep,\u2019 Joe thought to himself as he snuggled down into the blanket and squeezed his eyes shut.<\/p>\n

Adam knew exactly what Little Joe was doing, and why, and for a moment, he almost felt sorry for the kid. Grabbing one tin plate and dishing himself out one of the trout he\u2019d caught, Adam sat down next to the fire and began eating. The fish smelled wonderful and tasted even better. He glanced over his shoulder at his brother and saw Joe turn quickly. The boy had been watching him eat. It was too much to bear; Adam could not even enjoy his meal, knowing that his kid brother was hungry, even if by his own fault.<\/p>\n

Setting his plate aside, Adam picked up the other tin plate and dished the second trout into it. From the tin can setting on the rock closest to the fire, he added a helping of beans to the plate.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere, eat\u2026and don\u2019t argue about it,\u201d he said as he set the plate down next to Joe and then walked away.<\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes and turning over onto his back, saw the plate filled with the fish and beans. Hunger over rode his pride, and without a word, he grabbed the plate and began eating. When his hunger had been satisfied, he stood, took a deep breath and walked slowly to the fire where he sat his plate down, next to Adam\u2019s empty one.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d he said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

Adam had heard Joe coming his way and had waited before looking up. He raised his eyes slowly and peered into the troubled eyes that waited for a response.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to wash or do you want me to do it?\u201d
\nJoe squatted down before the fire, facing his brother. He pursed his lips together tightly and willed himself not to snap back at his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou cooked, I can wash,\u201d he mumbled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI cooked and I caught them\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell you don\u2019t have to rub it in\u2026just because I didn\u2019t snare a rabbit!\u201d barked Joe as he grabbed up the dirty plates and stomped off down the embankment to the creek.<\/p>\n

Adam was taken back by his brother\u2019s harsh words. He stood to his feet, facing the younger man, his hands firmly planted on his hips.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you\u2019ve got to learn not to take everything the wrong way, boy\u2026I didn\u2019t mean anything by what I just said!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cStop calling me boy, will you? I\u2019m nineteen years old, and I know what you meant. Once again you were taking little jabs at me\u2026like you always do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Disgusted, Adam shook his head. \u201cOh for heaven\u2019s sake, grow up,\u201d he muttered, turning away.<\/p>\n

Joe tossed the tin plates down onto the ground and grabbed Adam by the arm, forcing him to turn around.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t walk away from me when I\u2019m talking to you!\u201d he growled angrily.<\/p>\n

Adam, his eyes growing dark, glanced down at Joe\u2019s hand that squeezed his arm tightly. With his jaw set, he looked into Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cTake your hand off me, boy,\u201d he said in a threatening tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cI told you not to CALL ME THAT!\u201d Joe said as he took a swing at his brother.<\/p>\n

The fist clipped Adam on the end of his chin and sent the older man sprawling onto the ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cGET UP!\u201d spat Joe as he doubled up both fists and waved them at his brother.<\/p>\n

Adam rubbed his chin and slowly pushed himself to his feet. He stood, steadying himself, glaring at Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going to fight you, Joe\u2026stop this right now, before you get hurt!\u201d Adam warned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat makes you so sure I\u2019m the one going to get hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause as of yet, little brother, you\u2019ve never taken me in a fight\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

A second fist flew through the air, but this time, Adam saw it coming and as Joe stepped forward, Adam stepped to the side, letting Joe tumble to the ground just beyond where he was standing.<\/p>\n

Joe rolled over, jumping to his feet. His eyes were dark and the angry scowl on his face warned Adam that the fight was yet to be over.<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn you, Adam,\u201d Joe roared.<\/p>\n

He charged at Adam, but again, Adam managed to step aside and as Joe flew passed, Adam used his hands and shoved Joe\u2019s body away from his. Joe stumbled along for a step or two and then landed face down in the dirt.<\/p>\n

For a long moment Joe lay still, trying to catch his breath. He turned his head just enough to see his brother standing over him, offering him his hand. The action only served to intensify the young man\u2019s wrath.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you weren\u2019t my brother, I\u2019d kill you for that!\u201d snarled Joe.<\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes and let his arm drop to his side. \u201cDon\u2019t let that stop you, if you\u2019ve got the guts and can live with yourself!\u201d<\/p>\n

Unseen by his older brother, Joe\u2019s eyes moved slightly, glancing over the top of Adam\u2019 head. His face was a mixture of shock and fear. In a flash, Joe drew his gun and pointed it straight up.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s own eyes filled with surprise and when Joe started blasting the air with bullets, Adam dropped to the ground next to his brother. The shots continued to fill the night air. Loud, high-pitched screaming that Adam recognized as being his brother, were added to the rain of blasts that shattered the serenity of the night.<\/p>\n

When the blasting and the screeching had ended, Adam who had laid face down and covered his head with his arms in a protective manner, raised his head and looked over his shoulder. He was just in time to see a big grizzly bear high-tailing it off into the bushes.<\/p>\n

Adam glanced back at his brother. Joe sat in an upright position, his arm lying across his lap; Adam could see the rapid rise and fall of his brother\u2019s chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you alright, little brother?\u201d Adam asked, peering down into his brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed hard, barely able to speak, but he managed to nod his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay\u2026what about you?\u201d Joe said finally.<\/p>\n

Both brothers sat side by side, unwilling to move. Adam turned his head to look over at Joe; a smile wiped the anger from his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhew\u2026that was too close for comfort,\u201d he whispered.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d answered Joe in a wee voice that still trembled.<\/p>\n

Adam started laughing, surprising Joe. Joe turned to look at Adam, searching the other man\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat the hell\u2019s so funny?\u201d he demanded sourly.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026\u201d laughed Adam. He leaned back on one elbow, grinning at his brother. \u201cWhen I saw you draw your gun and point it up at me\u2026I thought for sure you were going to\u2026shoot me.\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a moment for the words to sink into his brain, but when they did, Joe started to giggle.<\/p>\n

\u201cI saw the wide-eyed look on your face\u2026\u201d giggled Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cWide-eyed? Hell, kid, you scared the crap out of me!\u201d laughed Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be\u2026you saved my life, kid\u2026I owe you,\u201d smiled Adam.<\/p>\n

Adam got up and began gathering up the dishes that Joe had tossed to the side. He was keenly aware of his brother when Joe moved to help him. Joe picked up the tin cups and held his hand out to take the plates from Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll wash,\u201d he said softly, his anger from moments ago, now forgotten.<\/p>\n

The fear of what almost happened had sank in and in an instant, he realized that his brother could have been killed\u2026they both could have been, and the thought was unnerving.<\/p>\n

Adam glanced up into Joe\u2019s face, saw the serious look and handed the dishes to his brother. As Joe\u2019s hand touched the plates, Adam\u2019s clung to them. Their eyes locked.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Joe,\u201d Adam said in a serious voice, for the same frightening thoughts had raced through his mind as well. A smile spread across his face, lightening the serious atmosphere.<\/p>\n

Joe returned the smile and took the dishes. \u201cI won\u2019t be long\u2026see if you can stay outta trouble until I get back,\u201d he muttered and then giggled.<\/p>\n

Adam laughed as well\u2026how many times had he said the same thing to the kid?<\/p>\n

The afternoon was much more relaxed than the day before. It seemed as if the brothers had put aside their anger at one another and a mutual, but unspoken truce was called. The conversation was light and reminiscent of by-gone days that caused both the brothers to laugh in a friendly and brotherly way at one another. By closer to evening, the talk had ceased and both Adam and Joe concentrated on getting to their destination before the onset of night.<\/p>\n

The pair, exhausted by the long ride and cooling temperatures, arrived minutes before the sun sank behind the mountain peaks.<\/p>\n

Adam slung his leg over his horse\u2019s back, making a loud groan as his feet hit the ground.<\/p>\n

Joe, slower to dismount, cast a weary glance at his brother and grinned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, big brother, getting too old for these long trips?\u201d Joe giggled.<\/p>\n

Adam made a snickering sound and shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but my back aches from wallowing around on the ground last night, first with you, then that bear and then trying to sleep. Say, I\u2019ve been meaning to ask you, little brother, did you put rocks in my bedroll last night?\u201d Adam quizzed.<\/p>\n

His expression was one of caution and when Joe looked into his brother\u2019s face, he couldn\u2019t help but to start laughing.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho, me?\u201d giggled Joe.<\/p>\n

Adam moved around his horse, his eyes had taken on a strange glow that warned the younger man to use caution.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, so help me\u2026if you did\u2026I\u2019ll pound you into the ground!\u201d growled Adam.<\/p>\n

He had only been kidding the boy, but the way his brother had looked seconds before and then had started to giggle, made him wonder if perhaps he had been correct in his thinking after all. Slowly Adam advanced on the boy.<\/p>\n

Joe took a step backward; his smile was gone as he watched the way his brother\u2019s jaw clenched tightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t really think I\u2019d do something so\u2026juvenile\u2026do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJuvenile\u2026you\u2026of course, Joe. I wouldn\u2019t put anything passed you!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam watched the smile fade and the anger replace the former expression on Joe\u2019s face. He saw Joe\u2019s fingers fold into hard fists and knew instantly that he had pushed too far. Joe was once again ready to do battle, and over what, a few misspoken words.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou better not have,\u201d growled Adam.<\/p>\n

His tone was cutting and sharp in spite of the smile that stretched across his face. The look on Joe\u2019s face was surprise, for he had thought that Adam was just kidding around, but apparently he had been mistaken, he decided quietly.<\/p>\n

His own laughter died and his lips turned downward.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you take me for? I was just as tired as you last night. I don\u2019t remember having time for playing games, I was too busy saving your ornery hide!\u201d Joe snapped back. \u201cI\u2019ll think twice about doing it a second time!\u201d<\/p>\n

Angry, Joe grabbed his horse\u2019s reins and led Cochise to the lean-too that had been erected in years past, to serve as a shelter for the wranglers mounts when it was their turn to work from Oblivion.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, wait a minute,\u201d Adam called after his brother.<\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Sport\u2019s reins and followed Joe to the lean-too.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook Joe, I\u2019m sorry\u2026I wasn\u2019t accusing you, I was only\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour back hurts, guess that was my fault\u2026but what else is new, heh? Just forget it, Adam,\u201d Joe snapped back.<\/p>\n

He spun around as he hauled his saddle from the horse\u2019s back and tossed it across the stall wall. \u201cI\u2019ll tend to the horses, you unpack the gear\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes were dark, and had Adam been better able to see, he would have seen the hurt on his brother\u2019s face rather than the anger that rang loud and clear in Joe\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cI said, forget it!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe snatched the leather reins from Adam\u2019s hand and led Sport into the extra stall next to Cochise\u2019s. Adam stood for a moment, trying to sort things out. The day had gone so well, and then in a matter of a few words, had ended in an argument. Without saying another word to Joe, Adam turned and made his way through the growing darkness to the shack.<\/p>\n

The gear had been unpacked and sorted and set on the makeshift shelves, and still Joe had not come in from the shed. Adam poked at the fire and then stirred the kettle of stew that Hop Sing had sent along that was now warming over the hot fire. With the coffee and stew heating, Adam glanced around the shack that would be home to him and his brother for the next several days and sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI sure hope it don\u2019t snow,\u201d Adam muttered to himself. \u201cThere\u2019s a draft blowing in between the cracks\u2026having to be shut up here with that kid is about the worse punishment Pa could have thought up. Damn,\u201d growled Adam, \u201ctwo weeks\u2026and we can\u2019t even last two days without a fight.\u201d<\/p>\n

He rubbed his jaw where a bruise and sore spot reminded him of the disagreement the night before. Adam wandered to the door and pulled it opened, peering into the darkness. He could see the soft glow of the lantern in the shed that had been lit and deemed that Joe was stalling coming inside, taking his time to groom the horses to perfection. Adam noted that the packhorse was gone from the hitching post out front and could only suppose that Joe was tending to her as well.<\/p>\n

As he turned to go back inside and wait, a loud, piercing scream, followed by two\u2026no three shots rang from the shed. Adam, startled into action, quickly withdrew his gun from his holster and ran through the shadows. He slowed down, inching his body along the outside wall until he came to the opening. Cautiously, he peered around the corner. Joe was lying on his back, his gun hand was stretched out beside him and he remained unmoving. Adam glanced quickly around the little shed but saw nothing or anyone that might have been the cause for the ruckus.<\/p>\n

\u201cPST\u2026Joe,\u201d Adam said in a loud whisper.<\/p>\n

Joe moved slightly and then pushed up on one elbow as he glanced over his shoulder. Instantly Adam could see the pain in his brother\u2019s eyes and fear filled his heart. His aggravation at the kid had been suddenly pushed from his mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d Joe said weakly, \u201cA blasted rattler got me,\u201d he moaned. \u201cI didn\u2019t know he was there, until I was right on top of him. He must\u2019va been in the hay, or near by. Ohh\u2026damn, that hurts!\u201d puffed Joe.<\/p>\n

Adam holstered his pistol and hurried to Joe\u2019s side. He saw the large snake lying off to Joe\u2019s right, dead from the bullets blasted from Joe\u2019s gun.<\/p>\n

Adam helped Joe into a sitting position. \u201cWhere\u2019d he get you?\u201d he asked as he began running his hands over Joe\u2019s legs, searching for the puncture wound.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy right leg, here,\u201d Joe said, pointing to his right calf.<\/p>\n

Instantly, Adam used his knife to cut away the material of Joe\u2019s trousers so that he could examine the bite. Joe\u2019s breath was coming in short gasps and his face held a well of fear embedded in his young features.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs it bad? Am I going to die? Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked up at his brother and shook his head. \u201cFirst off, I need you to calm down, buddy. Two things you never do, when bitten by a poisonous snake, panic and run, so take a deep breath and try to relax.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam had Joe\u2019s trousers leg split all the way up to his thigh. He wiped his knife clean and glanced into Joe\u2019s fearful face. His brother\u2019s breathing was steadier now and he smiled at the boy.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not going to die, Joe\u2026I won\u2019t let you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you going to do?\u201d Joe asked fearfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold this in your mouth,\u201d Adam said as he handed Joe his neckerchief, \u201cand bite down, hard. I\u2019m going to open this wound and suck the venom out. Grab that pole, Joe, this is gonna hurt like blazes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026wait\u2026you can\u2019t do that\u2026your mouth\u2026\u201d Joe looked remorseful, \u201cwhere I hit you\u2026you\u2019ll get poison in\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cInside my mouth is fine, now stop talking and do as I say, I\u2019ll be alright\u2026we both will.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe did as instructed but when the blade of Adam\u2019s knife sliced through his skin, Joe\u2019s muffled cries still reached his older brother\u2019s ears. Gasping aloud, Joe gritted his teeth, squeezed his eyes tightly and clung firmly to his handhold.<\/p>\n

Adam took several long drags, filling his mouth with the vile tasting poison as he sucked the venom out and spat it onto the ground. When he finished, he glanced up at Joe, but Joe had passed out.<\/p>\n

\u201cBetter this way, buddy, you won\u2019t feel a thing for awhile,\u201d Adam whispered as he wrapped the wound and tied a tourniquet above the bite area. He reached up and ran his hands through the chestnut curls and shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt never stops, does it little buddy? Somehow\u2026someway, you always manage to steal my heart.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tired as he was, Adam hoisted Joe up into his arms and carried him to the shack. Once inside, he laid the boy on one of the cots, choosing the one nearest the fire for more warmth. As Adam spread a blanket over his brother, Joe moaned slightly and struggled to open his eyes.<\/p>\n

Adam had a basin of soapy water and carefully began cleaning the puncture site as best he could. Every so often, he glanced up at his brother\u2019s face and watched the expressions that furrowed across Joe\u2019s brow. At last, Joe opened his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cHurts,\u201d he muttered, clenching his teeth in a futile effort to ward off the burning pain.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere, drink some of this,\u201d Adam said, handing a bottle of whiskey to his brother.<\/p>\n

Joe looked surprised that his brother was offering him whiskey to drink but in spite of his pain, he grinned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy? So you can have something else to tell Pa about me, once we get home?\u201d he said with a lopsided smirk.<\/p>\n

Joe turned the bottle up and took a swig, wrinkling his nose slightly at the flavor.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re going to be hurting before long, little brother, but the whiskey will help you to\u2026forget about your leg, for a while and it\u2019ll help you rest,\u201d Adam explained.<\/p>\n

He took the bottle from Joe after only one swig and said in a soft voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cHang on, this is going to burn a little, but it\u2019s the only disinfectant that we have.\u201d<\/p>\n

With that, Adam turned the bottle upward and let the whiskey slowly flow over Joe\u2019s leg. Joe was forced to grit his teeth.<\/p>\n

\u201cLiar,\u201d he said through clenched teeth. \u201cIt burns like hell!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, sport, but we can\u2019t chance an infection,\u201d explained Adam as he handed the bottle back to Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow drink heartily, I\u2019ll dish you out some of that good beef stew Hop Sing sent along, and I expect you to eat every bite,\u201d Adam ordered.<\/p>\n

Joe looked over the rim of the turned up bottle and saw his brother shaking his long slender finger at him. He almost choked on the liquor at the expression on his brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, did you know that you are slowly becoming our Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam made a scowl and placed both hands on his hips. \u201cAnd what\u2019s that suppose to mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe giggled. \u201cThe way you order me around all the time, the tone of your voice, your expressions, the way you\u2019re standing\u2026all remind me of our beloved father!\u201d Joe snickered.<\/p>\n

Adam raised his brows slightly and turned to the fire to dish out the stew.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that so bad?\u201d he asked, glancing over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t reckon so\u2026if you were my father\u2026but you\u2019re only my brother\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly?\u201d Adam said, turning and setting Joe\u2019s plate on the little lopsided table close to the bed. \u201cSit up, I\u2019ll be danged if I\u2019m going to feed you,\u201d he said, trying to sound stern.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean that like it sounded,\u201d Joe said, giving his brother a worried look.<\/p>\n

Adam stood over the bed and grinned. \u201cI know what you meant, kid\u2026and it\u2019s alright, cause it\u2019s true, I am only your brother but there are times Joe, that I tend to forget that little fact\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but you just can\u2019t help it, can you?\u201d Joe said between mouthfuls of the stew. \u201cYou like bossing me around, don\u2019t deny it,\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

He swallowed what was in his mouth and took another long swig from the bottle of whiskey.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you had half way raised me, like I\u2019ve had to do you\u2026you\u2019d probably feel the same way as I do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHad to?\u201d tempted Joe, watching the play of emotion that crisscrossed the front of Adam\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

Adam turned his back to Joe and was bending over the fire dishing out his own supper. When his plate was full, he sat down at the table that served as a center point in the room. He faced his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, had to. There were times, Little Joe, after your mother died, that Pa\u2026just couldn\u2019t cope with\u2026life, us\u2026you. He was over come with grief and during those\u2026bad times\u2026it was left up to me to see that you\u2026and Hoss\u2026were cared for.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou really had to grow up fast, didn\u2019t you, Adam?\u201d Joe asked softly, slowly beginning to see his brother in a different light.<\/p>\n

Adam shrugged his shoulders. \u201cNo big deal,\u201d he commented as he filled his mouth.<\/p>\n

The questioning was beginning to get to him; they stirred such deep emotions and feelings and were beginning to make him feel uncomfortable.<\/p>\n

Adam rose from the table and went to the bed. \u201cI\u2019ll take that,\u201d he said to Joe, taking the empty plate from the boy\u2019s hand. \u201cAnd that too,\u201d he grinned, snatching the bottle from Joe as Joe placed the bottle to his lips.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d he said, grinning.<\/p>\n

\u201cMuch more of this,\u201d Adam held the bottle up and looked at the contents, \u201cand it won\u2019t be your leg that will be hurting, it will be your head.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe giggled as he laid his head back against the pillow and closed his eyes. Within minutes, the whiskey had done its work, for Joe lay sleeping soundly.
\nFor some time, Adam had laid in his cot, listening to the soft sounds of his brother moaning. He had gotten up several times, being unable to sleep, and checked Joe for fever and to redo the bandage that he had applied to the snakebite. Joe was warm when Adam had felt his brow, but nothing so hot that he felt there was cause for worry. For the umpteenth time, Adam closed his eyes, this time, drifting off into a light slumber.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM! WATCH OUT!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was jolted from his sleep, making a grab for the pistol he kept close by.<\/p>\n

\u201cBEAR\u2026BEAR\u2026GET DOWN!\u201d<\/p>\n

Quickly, Adam lit the lamp and crossed the small expanse of the room and stood over his brother\u2019s bed. Joe was tossing and turning, a cascade of tiny droplets dotted his forehead as Joe mumbled aloud.<\/p>\n

\u201cRUN\u2026ADAM RUN!\u201d Joe shouted in garbled words.<\/p>\n

Adam hurried to set the lamp down and as Joe bolted upright in his bed, Adam was there at his side to grab the boy to prevent him from tumbling to the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cEasy Joe\u2026easy, buddy,\u201d said Adam as he gently gripped Joe\u2019s shoulders. \u201cYou\u2019re just dreaming\u2026shh\u2026shh\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eye finally opened and he peered with a frantic expression, into his older brother\u2019s face. He sucked in deep gulps of air, as if he\u2019d been running a great distance that caused his chest to heave up and down.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe\u2026bear\u2026\u201d he stammered, wide-eyed with fright.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe bear\u2019s gone, Joe\u2026you just had a nightmare, you were reliving what happened to us last night,\u201d soothed Adam.<\/p>\n

Joe took a deep breath and swallowed hard. His troubled eyes sought his brother\u2019s face and then glanced around the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re at the\u2026line shack, aren\u2019t we?\u201d Joe said in a trembling voice, his fear still evident on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026we came up to make repairs and do a little fencing\u2026but come daylight, I\u2019m taking you home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026no, please Adam\u2026I\u2019ll be alright\u2026honest,\u201d Joe pleaded.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you\u2019re sick, pal, you\u2019ve nearly been attacked by a bear, you\u2019ve been bitten by a snake, your running a fever and\u2026\u201d Adam grinned, \u201cYou have a hang over!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe chuckled as his hand moved to his head. \u201cMy head does hurt\u2026but my leg feels pretty good, considering.\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked into his brother\u2019s eyes with a deep yearning in his own.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, Adam, let me stay\u2026I won\u2019t be able to help much with the work around here, especially the roof repair\u2026but\u2026I\u2019ll do the cooking\u2026and I can hobble out to the shed and tend the horses\u2026just let me stay\u2026please?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Joe\u2026we\u2019ll see in the morning, and it depends on your fever\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI told you, I\u2019ll be fine, Adam\u2026I want to stay here and help you\u2026I want to be with\u2026\u201d Joe swallowed again and lowered his head slightly. When he looked up, it was with a smile on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to be with, you\u2026Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd for some reason unknown even to myself\u2026I want you to stay\u2026BUT!\u201d Adam laughed, \u201cdon\u2019t let it go to your head\u2026if you don\u2019t do exactly as I say, home you go\u2026understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe snuggled back down into his cot and grinned up at his brother as Adam pulled the blanket up around his chin. Adam pointed a finger at Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly if the fever isn\u2019t any worse\u2026agreed?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAgreed,\u201d smiled Joe, closing his eyes. \u201cNow turn out the lamp and go to sleep\u2026it\u2019s almost dawn now,\u201d he muttered. His left eye opened just enough to see Adam bending over the lamp fixing to blow out the tiny blaze.<\/p>\n

Seconds later it was pitch dark in the little shack that the brothers shared. Joe could hear Adam stumbling around, feeling his way back to his own narrow cot.<\/p>\n

\u201cOUCH!\u201d mumbled Adam through gritted teeth.<\/p>\n

\u201cHehehehe,\u201d giggled Joe.
\nMorning came quickly for both Adam and Joe. Grumbling under his breath, Adam forced himself from his cot and stretched.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s the leg?\u201d he asked Joe who had risen up on one elbow.<\/p>\n

Joe made a face, but quickly wiped the expression away, not wanting to let on to his older brother, just how much his leg really was hurting.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s hurting some,\u201d he said, \u201cbut not more than I can bear,\u201d he explained, which to Joe it was the truth, he\u2019d suffered more pain than what was burning in his leg at other times in his life when he\u2019d been sick or injured.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy head hurts worse,\u201d Joe grinned as he watched Adam jabbing at the fire, trying to rekindle the dying embers.<\/p>\n

Adam glanced over at Joe and returned the grin. \u201cI told you to go easy on that bottle,\u201d he snickered. \u201cDamn, it\u2019s cold in here,\u201d he mumbled as he added some wood to the blaze.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get this fire going, and start us some breakfast, you stay right where you are and rest\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRest?? That\u2019s all I\u2019ve been doing for the last several hours. I feel fine, Adam, honest,\u201d Joe argued as he carefully swung his legs over the edge of the cot and sat his feet on the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cBurr\u2026it sure \u2018nough did get cold last night,\u201d Joe laughed. \u201cWant me to start the coffee while you do the\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam stood up from the fire and shook his head at his brother. He pointed his finger at Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI told you to stay put\u2026it\u2019s too soon, Joe, to put much weight on that leg, give it at least another day\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe grinned brightly at his brother; his eyes sparkled. \u201cDoes that mean I don\u2019t have to go home\u2026I can stay here, with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes grew dark and he had an expression on his face that his kid brother was unable to read. By rights, thought Adam, Joe should be at home, in the bed, under a doctor\u2019s care, but looking at his young face and seeing the expectancy in his emerald eyes, Adam knew before he even said the words that he would not refuse his brother staying with him.<\/p>\n

The dark eyes danced with amusement as Adam turned to look directly into Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly as long as you do exactly as I tell you, understood?\u201d<\/p>\n

Giggling sounds bubbled up inside and Joe could do nothing to stop them. \u201cDon\u2019t I always?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, right,\u201d groaned Adam, as he turned to the old black stove and began preparing breakfast for the two of them.
\nJoe stayed on the cot, though he didn\u2019t relish the job. For most of the morning, Adam tended to little chores inside the cabin in order to keep Joe company; but once Joe had fallen to sleep, Adam hurried outside and began repairing some of the decayed and fallen boards in the walls of the shed.<\/p>\n

Adam was so intent on getting the job finished so that he could get back inside before Joe woke up, that he failed to notice the three men that rode up to the front of the cabin. Two of the men slid down from their horses, handed the third man their reins and looked around suspiciously. Satisfied that they had not been seen, they opened the door of the shack and slipped inside. The third man quietly moved the horses to the back of the shack, out of view of anyone approaching from the front.<\/p>\n

Joe had awakened and was standing with his back to the door when it opened suddenly. Knowing that Adam had warned him to stay in the bed, Joe whirled around, thinking he\u2019d been caught doing exactly what his brother had advised him not to do, and that was to get up.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I was only\u2026what the??\u201d stammered Joe, seeing the two strangers standing in the middle of the room.<\/p>\n

Before Joe could collect his senses, a man\u2019s fist slammed into his face, sending him plummeting across the room. Joe fell across the table, onto his back and slid down into the floor in a heap. Blood dripped from his nose and Joe swiped his hand across his face and tried to get on his feet. The second man grabbed Joe by the front of his shirt, hauling the dazed boy upright. Again, Joe felt the force of the blow as the man hit him on the other side of his already bruising face. A solid fist into his mid-section doubled Joe in half. The man released Joe\u2019s shirt, allowing the battered young man to fall to the floor for the second time.<\/p>\n

\u201cFind some rope and tie him in that chair. Make sure he\u2019s facing the door. I want him to be the first thing that Adam Cartwright sees the minute he steps into the room,\u201d one man said to the other.<\/p>\n

Within minutes, Joe was tied tightly with his arms stretched behind him and bound to the rungs of the wooden chair. His ankles were secured as well to the legs and a gag was stuffed into his mouth, knotted firmly at the back of his head. Joe could feel the burning pain in his right leg that sent stinging darts upward into his thigh. He gritted his teeth in an effort to ward off the throbbing ach. Joe watched the two men move about the room, rummaging through their belongings as if they were searching for something in particular.<\/p>\n

Joe made a grunting sound, trying to voice his disapproval of the two men. The man spun around, glaring with dark, ebony eyes, at Joe. He raised his hand, as if to strike the boy, but paused when the door was thrown opened and the third man entered.<\/p>\n

\u201cI got the horses hid out in the bushes. Where\u2019s Cartwright?\u201d he asked, glancing around and seeing Joe bound and gagged. The man started laughing. \u201cGuess this here kid is Cartwright\u2019s brother, heh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah stupid, it sure ain\u2019t his mama,\u201d the older of the three men said in a sarcastic tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026shucks Nate\u2026I knew that,\u201d the man said.<\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright\u2019s headed this way, boss,\u201d the man, who had been watching out the window, said to the others.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Lester, get behind that door. \u201cZeke, get over here. When Cartwright comes through the door, you two nab him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Nate turned to face Joe, slipping his arm about Joe\u2019s neck in a headlock. His pistol was cocked and the long barrel was pressed into Joe\u2019s temple.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou move, and you\u2019re dead,\u201d Nate muttered softly to Joe.<\/p>\n

The door swung opened and Adam stepped into the room. His eyes instantly took in the horrifying scene in front of him. Joe was tied in a chair, his face battered and bloody. A tall dark stranger stood next to Joe, his arm squeezing tightly about his brother\u2019s neck. But the pistol that the man held firmly in place at Joe\u2019s temple was what stopped Adam in his tracks.<\/p>\n

Behind him, the door slammed shut. Adam glanced over his shoulder at the two men behind him. He lifted his right arm out of the way as one man reached for his sidearm and removed it from its holster. Once he was freed from his gun, the man to his left grabbed his arms and penned them behind his back.<\/p>\n

\u201cTie his hands,\u201d Nate ordered.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the meaning of this? What do you want?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

He was watching his brother\u2019s face, seeing the pain in the depths of the green eyes that glowed with anger. Adam glanced down at Joe\u2019s right leg and saw that the bandage was stained with bright red blood and knew instantly that the snakebite wound had been reopened. Adam\u2019s eyes sought Joe\u2019s face and then the man\u2019s face that held Joe\u2019s life in his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you leave the kid alone\u2026he\u2019s barely able to breath,\u201d Adam demanded angrily.<\/p>\n

Adam was ushered to the other chair and forced to sit down. Nate released his tight hold on the younger Cartwright. Joe\u2019s head slumped forward and Adam saw that Joe struggled to pull air into his lungs, but that the gag was preventing him from breathing properly.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe needs air,\u201d Adam warned as he nodded his head in Joe\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n

Nate saw the struggle that Joe was making and reached down, jerking the gag from the boy\u2019s mouth. Instantly, Joe sucked in a chest full of air to fill his lungs.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll live,\u201d Nate said, \u201cjust as long as you do what I tell you to do\u2026otherwise, the boy\u2019s gonna die,\u201d he smirked.<\/p>\n

Nate sat down on the table, facing Adam. He had holstered his gun and swung one leg casually as he began explaining to Adam what was going to happen.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen up, and listen good, cause if ya don\u2019t, the boy over there is going to die, understand?\u201d Nate said as he glanced over at Joe and then at Adam.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes darted in Joe\u2019s direction noting the suffering on his brother\u2019s face and then turned his attention to the man facing him. He nodded is head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI understand,\u201d Adam said gruffly.<\/p>\n

Inside, the older Cartwright was seething with anger. His younger brother\u2019s face was covered in blood from his nose, his lip was busted and already his face had begun to swell and bruise.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll do what you say, just don\u2019t hurt the boy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s up to you, Cartwright\u2026what happens to your brother\u2026Oh yes, I know that he\u2019s your kid brother,\u201d laughed Nate when he saw the look of surprise that Adam wore. \u201cI know all about you rich Cartwrights\u2026and I know that your old man will pay hundreds, thousands even to get his kid back. That\u2019s where you come in\u2026here\u2019s what you\u2019re going to do,\u201d Nate instructed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m giving you until this time tomorrow to get me and my boys there, one hundred thousand dollars\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d exclaimed Adam, his eyes flashing with anger.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, one hundred thousand\u2026I want you to ride back to that big, fancy ranch of yours, have your papa give you the cash and bring it back here, to me. And if you know what\u2019s good for you, you\u2019ll come alone,\u201d Nate got up from the table and walked over to stand before Joe. \u201cIf you double-cross me, your brother dies\u2026and it won\u2019t be quick\u2026\u201d Nate spun around, grinning wickedly at Adam. \u201cI\u2019ll kill him nice and slow like, he\u2019ll suffer\u2026and it\u2019ll all be your fault\u2026get it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam took a deep breath to still his anger. He glanced over at Joe and saw that his brother was just as angry as he. Adam looked up at Nate and his two cohorts. He sensed a bit of sadism in all three and had no doubt that Nate would do just as he promised.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a long ride, almost two days\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYa heard the boss, ya got until this time tomorrow\u2026I suppose you\u2019ll have to ride fast,\u201d snickered Lester who stood behind Joe, watching the hate grow dark in Adam\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s impossible,\u201d argued Adam, \u201cno man or horse can cover that much ground in such a short time\u2026and besides, Pa will have to gather the money, we don\u2019t keep that kind of money at the ranch\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Lester pulled his pistol from his holster and pressed the barrel into Joe\u2019s temple, indicating his meaning. When Adam heard the cocking of the weapon, his eyes widened.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, but I\u2019ll need two horses\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTake what you need, but remember what I said, if you\u2019re more than ten minutes late\u2026the boy there\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, yeah\u2026I know,\u201d growled Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright then, Zeke, untie him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Zeke did as instructed and freed Adam from the ropes that had his hands bound behind him. Adam rubbed the soreness in his wrists and gently flexed them to bring the blood flow back into his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I have a word with my brother, first?\u201d Adam asked Nate. \u201cIn private\u2026if you don\u2019t mind,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

Nate seemed to be thinking it over and after a long moment, agreed. \u201cAlright, five minutes\u2026not a second longer. Lester, you and Zeke step outside and fetch some more firewood. Cartwright, I\u2019m going to be standing in the door, I\u2019ll have my gun aimed at the boy\u2019s head, should you decide to try something.\u201d<\/p>\n

Nate moved to the door and turned to watch as Adam squatted down in front of Joe, resting his hands on the boy\u2019s knees.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026listen to me, I\u2019ll be back\u2026I promise,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s impossible and you know it, Adam,\u201d whispered Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can do it, buddy. I have no intentions of letting those bastards kill you.\u201d Adam grinned up at Joe. \u201cI know I\u2019ve said it a dozen times, kid, that I could kill you, myself, with my bare hands. But I\u2019ll not let the likes of those three do it for me!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe forced a tiny smile. \u201cGee, thanks,\u201d he laughed lightly.<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face took on a serious expression. \u201cAdam, whatever happens, I know you tried your best\u2026I won\u2019t hold anything against you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHush talking like that, Joe\u2026I\u2019ll get you out of this mess, I promise\u2026you\u2019ll see,\u201d Adam swore. \u201cJust do as they say and try not to make them mad. Your face is already a mess, and that leg isn\u2019t looking to good either\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTime\u2019s up,\u201d Nate called from the doorway. \u201cBetter get going, Cartwright,\u201d he advised.<\/p>\n

Adam gave Joe\u2019s leg a gentle squeeze, \u201cSee you, little buddy,\u201d he said, forcing a smile.<\/p>\n

Adam turned to Nate. \u201cMy brother\u2019s been bitten by a rattler, he needs to lie down and rest, the wound is bleeding again and I think\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care what you think, the kid stays right where he\u2019s at\u2026now get moving!\u201d snarled Nate as he shoved Adam through the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cZeke, make sure he gets his horses saddled and then ride as far as the creek with him\u2026just to be sure he gets headed in the right direction\u2026I wouldn\u2019t want him to get lost!\u201d laughed Nate.
\nThe hours passed slowly for Joe. The pain in his leg had become almost unbearable and with his arms still tied tightly behind him and his legs bound to the hard wooden chair, his entire body had taken on an enormous ache. To add to his discomfort, he had not been offered so much as a drop of water or one bite to eat. The three men had made themselves at home, partaking of the supplies that he and Adam had brought along. They had even found the remains of his whiskey bottle and were well on their way to becoming more than just slightly drunk.<\/p>\n

Their laughter was loud and as Joe watched their movements and listened to their idle chatter, he learned that the trio had been watching the house for several days. They had learned of the Cartwrights\u2019 movements, the times of day that certain things were done, who was home and who had ridden off, either to tend to some ranch work or had ridden into town for supplies. They seemed to know all there was to know about the family, even what time they retired at night and rose in the mornings.<\/p>\n

Nate had laid his trap well, waiting until he knew that Joe and Adam would be gone for several days. The time would give him just enough leeway to fulfill his scheme. With Adam and Joe gone, Ben Cartwright would not have an inkling as to what was taking place, until Adam returned home without his younger brother, to demand the ransom money from his father and return it to he and his two cohorts.<\/p>\n

Zeke took a long swig on the near empty bottle of whiskey. For several minutes now, he had been watching Joe, who had been watching him and his friends.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat you lookin\u2019 at?\u201d Zeke demanded of Joe.<\/p>\n

Joe eyed the man but refused to answer.<\/p>\n

\u201cI asked you a question, boy!\u201d Zeke growled as he rose from the chair where he was sitting.<\/p>\n

Nate and Lester grinned at one another. They watched Zeke approach the boy.<\/p>\n

Zeke stood over Joe, his eyes dazed by the liquor. He wobbled slightly. Without warning, he raised his arm and with his opened hand, slapped Joe hard, across his already battered face. Joe\u2019s head was jerked to one side. A bright red handprint appeared instantly on his left cheek. Joe could feel the stinging sensation as he raised his head slightly and glared at the man.<\/p>\n

\u201cCat got ya tongue?\u201d Zeke shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo to hell,\u201d muttered Joe, knowing his remark would bring the other man\u2019s wrath down upon him.<\/p>\n

He was right, several times Zeke\u2019s hand connected with Joe\u2019s face. The boy\u2019s head lolled first to one side and then the next. Joe\u2019s head reeled from the forceful blows. In his mouth, he could taste blood where he had bitten into the flesh of his cheeks. Joe struggled to breathe, gasping for each breath that he sucked into his lungs. By the time that Zeke was spent, Joe was nearly unconscious.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough, Zeke,\u201d laughed Nate. \u201cThe boy can\u2019t take much more\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a smart-mouth, rich kid\u2026all he\u2019s good for is killin\u2019,\u201d grumbled Zeke as he staggered back to his chair and sat down.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll get your chance, once his big brother gets back here with the money,\u201d Nate assured his friend.<\/p>\n

Zeke grinned broadly. \u201cDoes that mean I get to kill\u2019em?\u201d<\/p>\n

Nate grabbed the whiskey bottle out of Zeke\u2019s hand and took a long swig. When he sat the bottle down, he grinned at Zeke across the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t think I\u2019d leave them two boys alive do you? What do you take me for, a fool? Of course we\u2019re gonna kill them, if they ever caught up to us\u2026they\u2019d send us to prison for the rest of our lives. Well, I\u2019ve been in prison, and I ain\u2019t got no hankerin\u2019 to go back!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen that settles it, I get the older boy,\u201d Lester said with a grin. \u201cHe don\u2019t remember me, but I sure as hell remember him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d Nate said, turning around to look at Lester who had gotten up and moved to add wood on the stove.<\/p>\n

\u201cBack about five years ago, I worked for the mighty Adam Cartwright\u2026down in one of his mines. There was a cave in\u2026some of the men blamed me, but no one could prove that the mine had been sabotaged. Cartwright fired me for no good reason. I nearly starved to death before I met up with you\u2026t\u2019weren\u2019t no one here abouts would hire me\u2026they all believed I was responsible for that mine accident,\u201d snarled Lester.<\/p>\n

Nate\u2019s face twisted into a deep frown. \u201cWell, I reckon that\u2019s reason enough to kill the bastard\u2026he\u2019s yours. Zeke, you can kill the boy,\u201d Nate said, looking Joe\u2019s way and seeing the hideous bruises and welts on the once handsome face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about you, Nate? Don\u2019t you want in on the fun? I got some great ideas as to what to do to Adam Cartwright,\u201d laughed Lester.<\/p>\n

Nate tossed back his head and laughed. \u201cI\u2019m gonna kill the old man\u2019s other son, the big one, the one they call Hoss\u2026and I\u2019m gonna make Ben Cartwright watch,\u201d leered Nate. \u201cAnd when I\u2019m finished with the ox, I\u2019m gonna kill the richest man in the Nevada Territory,\u201d he laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou got somethin\u2019 against, Mr. Cartwright?\u201d Zeke inquired.<\/p>\n

\u201cNope, I just don\u2019t like rich people, that\u2019s all.\u201d
\nDawn was still more than an hour away. The sky had not yet started to lighten, and there were cast among the shadows, a lone figure of a man who crept along silently. He had been watching the old shack now for several hours, biding his time\u2026for time was everything, if he planned on saving his younger brother\u2019s life and keep from getting himself killed as well.<\/p>\n

He had quickly given up the thought of riding for help. The Ponderosa ranch house lay too many miles away and Adam knew before he had ever been forced to leave Joe alone with those three hooligans, that he\u2019d never be able to ride that far and back in the allotted time that Nate had given him. Adam had ridden off with his escort, to satisfy the boss man, but had determined by the time they had reached the creek and he\u2019d gone only a short distance further alone, that there was no way that he intended to \u2018buy back\u2019 his own brother. Joe was his flesh and blood, and no matter how angry he became with the boy, Joe was, in a sense his\u2026his responsibility\u2026his friend\u2026but more importantly, his brother.<\/p>\n

Adam smiled to himself; he glanced upward toward heaven and muttered softly. \u201cI understand now, Lord, why I\u2019m his brother. You knew as far back as the day the boy was born that he\u2019d need looking after\u2026and you assigned the job to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Right then and there Adam made himself a promise, for what he suddenly realized was just how important the boy had been to his own life and to those of his father\u2019s and his middle brother, Hoss. Joe had been like a son to him, he, Adam, had watched the boy grow and develop into the young man he had become, and regardless, Adam was proud of the kid.<\/p>\n

\u2018Kid,\u2019 he thought, \u2018I have to stop thinking of Joe as a kid, a boy, he\u2019s a young man\u2026I promise Joe, if we get out of this alive\u2026I\u2019ll try to stop thinking of you as just my kid brother and I\u2019ll try to\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

Just then the door to the shack opened and Lester stepped out unto the porch. Adam sank into the shadows and watched as Lester walked to the end of the porch where he pressed himself against the wall and waited while Lester relived himself. When Lester turned to go back inside, Adam, his pistol drawn, slammed the weapon down, onto the back of Lester\u2019s head, rendering the man unconscious.<\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Lester\u2019s sagging body and quietly pulled him into the edge of the woods hurrying to bind and gag the man. When Adam was certain that Lester was secure, he eased silently back onto the porch. He stopped at the window and peered inside the cabin, but no light was burning. It was only from the soft glow of the embers in the fireplace, that he could make out his brother still bound to the chair. Adam searched Joe\u2019s face, appalled by the number of dark bruises that discolored the boy\u2019s fine features. Inside, Adam seethed with anger at what had been done to his brother.<\/p>\n

As Adam stood outside the door, he heard the sound of footsteps. He pushed himself up against the outside wall, next to the door. Seconds later, the lamp inside was lit and a warm glow of light filtered through the dirty window onto the porch.<\/p>\n

The door opened slowly as Zeke, lantern in hand, stepped outside. The lantern was held high, spreading light across the expanse of the porch, nearly blinding Adam with the brightness. He heard the other man shriek in a startled voice and try to dart back inside the shack, but Adam moved quickly to silence the man. In his attempt, the lantern was knocked from Zeke\u2019s hand and shattered across the porch. The lamp oil quickly ignited, sending a showering hot blaze across the wooden portal. Adam was fighting with Zeke, trying to gain control of the man, but Zeke was a powerfully built man and it took all of Adam\u2019s strength and determination to over take his opponent.<\/p>\n

From the corner of his eye, Adam could see the flames engulf the cabin. Zeke had been out mastered and lay in a heap near the porch. As Adam made a mad dash for the door, Nate, coughing, stumbled out into the darkness, nearly colliding with Adam.<\/p>\n

Caught off guard, Adam stumbled, shoving Nate clear of the entrance as he plowed his way into the shack. Nate ran across the yard, tripping over Zeke who was just coming to his senses. The two men stood watching the front of the shack, waiting for Adam to burst through the flames with Joe following behind him. Nate pulled his gun free of his holster and turned to Zeke.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen they come out, start shooting!\u201d he ordered. \u201cAnd shoot to kill!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJOE! JOE! Where are you?\u201d shouted Adam through the roar of the fire.<\/p>\n

The smoke was so thick, seeing was impossible. Adam felt his way around the cabin, grasping with his arm stretched out in front of him for anything that he could put his fingers on. The thick smoke was overpowering and Adam began to cough while trying to keep his mouth covered.<\/p>\n

The temperature inside was soaring and Adam knew that if he didn\u2019t get out soon, he would surely die.<\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d he screamed again as he felt his way toward the door.<\/p>\n

He had almost reached the doorway when something in his way caused him to trip and tumble to the floor. Beneath him, Adam could hear soft moaning. He had found his brother! Quickly Adam fought with the ropes that bound Joe to the chair and within seconds, had the boy free. Joe was coughing violently.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on buddy, let\u2019s get out of here,\u201d Adam called as he hauled Joe to his feet and ran for the door.<\/p>\n

The instant that he and Joe were free of the flames, Nate and Zeke began firing at them. Adam grabbed Joe by the arm and flung him to the ground along side himself. Adam rolled over and over, away from Joe who had remained where he had fallen. The action served to draw the other two men\u2019s attention to himself, which was what Adam had hoped would happen. He began firing back, taking careful aim. After several rounds of steady fire, Nate and Zeke lay side by side; both men were dead.<\/p>\n

Adam swiftly ran to Joe who had yet made a move. Taking Joe by the arms, Adam moved Joe further away from the now destroyed shack nearer to the shed and the water trough.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Adam cried as he bent over his brother and carefully turned the boy over.<\/p>\n

He cringed at the abuse apparent on the boy\u2019s young face. The dark bruising that had fashioned an array of blues and blacks, pinks and purples were now covered in soot and ashes as well. Gently Adam wiped the muck from Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026open your eyes\u2026come on, that\u2019s it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWa\u2026ter,\u201d muttered Joe weakly.<\/p>\n

Adam grabbed the dipper from the nail at the pump where it hung and filled it with water.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere you go, easy now,\u201d Adam cautioned as he gently helped Joe to sit up.<\/p>\n

He held the dipper to Joe\u2019s lips and waited until the boy had quenched his thirst. Joe coughed several times.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy chest\u2026burns,\u201d muttered Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, buddy\u2026my does too,\u201d Adam answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cThose men\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam glanced over at Nate and Zeke, turning again to Joe. \u201cThey won\u2019t hurt you any more, Joe\u2026they are dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes moved slightly. \u201cAdam, look out!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe surprised Adam by knocking him to the ground. The brothers rolled over and in so doing, Joe managed to grab Adam\u2019s gun from his holster and began firing over their heads.<\/p>\n

When it was over, the third man lay dead as well. Adam pushed himself up to his knees, his eyes dark and glaring at his brother. His hands were firmly placed on his hips and the expression on his face was one of anger.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was a foolish thing to do!\u201d he snapped at Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t think of anything else to do\u2026he was fixing to shoot you in the back!\u201d Joe retorted angrily. \u201cLook!\u201d Joe said, pointing to the lifeless figure.<\/p>\n

Adam turned to see Lester lying in a heap near his two cronies. Adam shook his head in disbelief.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d forgotten about him. I had him tied up in the bushes, guess he must have managed to get free\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam grinned at Joe while getting to his feet and offering his brother a hand up.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you saved my life\u2026again,\u201d smiled Adam with a twinkle in his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s the least I could do, big brother, you saved mine first,\u201d laughed Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you saved mine first.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026you saved mine\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026the bear\u2026remember?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe looked thoughtful for a moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah, but you fed me\u2026the fish, remember\u2026so saving you from the bear was the least I could do,\u201d Joe said with a boyish grin.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but I saved you from dying of snake bite\u2026and then I was forced to save you from those three thugs\u2026and lets not forget the burning shack\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam paused, glancing at the smoldering remains of the old line shack. He shook his head from side to side. Joe followed Adam\u2019s line of vision, taking in the same sad sight as his brother. He too shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow are we going to explain this to Pa, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBeats me,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

They were standing side by side, both looking the worse for wear and covered in dirt and ashes from head to toe.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know something, Big Brother?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa probably won\u2019t believe us when we tell him everything that happened\u2026I mean how I saved you from a bear and you saved me from the snake and then you saved me from the burning shack and then I save you from being shot in the back\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked worried as he turned to Joe and helped the boy to his feet.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he\u2019ll probably think we just got into another fight, especially with the looks of your face\u2026and then he\u2019ll no doubt think we burned the shack because of our\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam started laughing. \u201cIt does sound unbelievable, wouldn\u2019t you agree?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe started giggling but stopped suddenly. He groaned and held his face between his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cOuch\u2026that hurts,\u201d he said. \u201cSo does my leg.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s laughter died as he saw Joe begin to sway. Grabbing the boy by the arms and lacing his through his brother\u2019s, he led Joe to the shed where the horses were stabled.<\/p>\n

\u201cLets get you settled and cleaned up, then I\u2019ll take care of those three.\u201d<\/p>\n

Just as soon as he had Joe comfortable, Adam took care of the bodies, wrapping them in their own bedrolls and preparing them for the long ride down the mountain later on that day.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you doing?\u201d Adam asked Joe when he returned.<\/p>\n

Adam squatted down next to his brother, making sure the Joe had no fever. He checked the wound in the leg and then gathered some water to clean the cuts and scrapes on his brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cI feel like I\u2019ve been run over by a freight wagon,\u201d Joe said as Adam dabbed at his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou look like you\u2019ve been run over by a freight wagon,\u201d snickered Adam.<\/p>\n

Joe took Adam\u2019s hand and gently pushed it away from his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, tell me something.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnything, Joe,\u201d Adam responded.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow did you get back so fast? I know it\u2019s at least a good solid two days ride from here back home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSimple, I didn\u2019t go home,\u201d grinned Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t?\u201d Joe asked, surprised.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not\u2026I knew I\u2019d never make it back here in time, and that Nate fellow swore to kill you if I didn\u2019t, so I just rode off a ways and waited,\u201d Adam explained. \u201cBeside, he was asking way too much for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes widened as he jerked his head around to stare in awe at his older brother. He wore a serious expression.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean by that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNate\u2026his bounty for you was way too high\u2026after all, Pa don\u2019t keep a hundred thousand dollars in his safe and you know it. Five\u2026maybe ten thousand at the most, and then only on occasion\u2026but a hundred thousand\u2026no way, kid!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face formed a scowl and he glared at his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t let Pa hear you talk like that,\u201d he said seriously and then grinned. \u201cPa happens to think I\u2019m priceless!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam burst into laughter, causing Joe to start giggling as well. After several minutes, Adam stood to his feet.<\/p>\n

\u201cReckon you can ride?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe glanced down at his leg, touching it gently with his fingers.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, but I\u2019ll give it a try, it hurts,\u201d Joe answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ll get you home and then Pa can take a look at it. He\u2019ll probably put you to bed and send for the doctor. Doc Martin will no doubt come out, tell you to stay in bed for\u2026hmm\u2026a week or so, and\u2026oh yeah, he\u2019ll have to give you a shot in the rump too, I bet. And stitch up that cut over your eye\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Joe said with no expression in his voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, buddy?\u201d Adam said, trying hard not to smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust shut up and help me get on my horse!\u201d<\/p>\n

By the next afternoon, the brothers stopped on the rise overlooking the ranch house. Joe was tired and it showed on his battered face and in the way he sat his horse, but he straightened when he saw the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s good be home, isn\u2019t it?\u201d he asked Adam.<\/p>\n

Adam grinned and nodded. \u201cIt\u2019s good to be alive, Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll say. Say, Adam\u2026did I tell you thanks for pulling me out of that burning shack? Cause if I didn\u2019t\u2026I\u2019m saying it now\u2026thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to thank me, Joe. You\u2019d have done the same for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe was studying his brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow can you be so sure?\u201d he asked casually.<\/p>\n

Adam turned to look into Joe\u2019s eyes. It was there\u2026as it had always been, the love between them. They didn\u2019t let the other see it very often, but it was there just the same. Briefly Adam wondered why they didn\u2019t, but decided it didn\u2019t really matter, they knew it was there, though they sometimes forgot. But then a gentle reminder would take place and there it\u2019d be, shining in their eyes. Adam grinned in that knowing way that had so many times in the past, irked his kid brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re brothers aren\u2019t we? Didn\u2019t Pa once say that it\u2019s \u2018only when we give joyfully, without hesitation or thought of gain, can we truly know what love means\u2019. Well, Joe\u2026I think the last few days proved that point.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know what the words mean, Adam\u2026I\u2019m not sure about what happened and how it applies to the words though,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s easy, Joe. Did you think twice about knocking me to the ground when you ran that bear off\u2026or again when you shot Lester before he could shoot me in the back?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I didn\u2019t give a second thought either, when I sucked the poison out of your leg, or when I ran into the shack to pull you out of the fire. I did it, Joe, not just because you\u2019re my brother, but because I\u2026I\u2026\u201d Adam hesitated.<\/p>\n

He turned and grinned at Joe, but for him the words were hard to say. He swallowed deeply.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know what I mean, don\u2019t you, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s lips were pressed firmly together as he nodded his head. He too had a thickening in his own throat.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Adam\u2026I know what you mean\u2026I feel the same way about you. And I\u2019m sorry for being such a worry-wart all the time, and making you mad\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cForget it Joe, I\u2019m only hard on you cause\u2026I expect too much out of you, I reckon,\u201d smiled Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we expect too much out of each other,\u201d Joe snickered.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps. Come on, let\u2019s get home\u2026I don\u2019t know about you, but I\u2019m hungry!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow you sound just like Hoss\u2026he\u2019s always hungry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Both young men laughed as they headed down the slope toward the house. The three men, Nate, Lester and Zeke, they had left in town with Roy Coffee with a promise that they would come back later and give the sheriff a fully detailed account of what happened.<\/p>\n

Ben and Hoss had heard the sounds of thundering hooves in the yard and hurried out to see who had stopped by. Both were stunned to see Adam and Joe crossing the yard, arms draped over the others shoulders and both laughing.<\/p>\n

Ben grinned at Hoss. \u201cWell, I\u2019m not sure what happened, look at Joe\u2019s face. And he\u2019s limping\u2026I hope to goodness that Adam didn\u2019t do that!\u201d Ben said with some doubt.<\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026Pa, Joe wouldn\u2019t be laughin\u2019 if\u2019n Adam had done that to\u2019em. But what\u2019cha think did happen?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s thick brows rose slightly. \u201cI don\u2019t know, but I have an idea we\u2019re about to find out!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy Pa\u2026Hoss,\u201d grinned Joe as he took his father\u2019s hand and shook it.<\/p>\n

\u201cWelcome home\u2026you\u2019re back early,\u201d Ben said as he eyed the way his two sons exchanged glances. \u201cAnd what happened to your face, Joseph?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy face? Umm\u2026well, you see, Pa\u2026there was a little trouble\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrouble\u2026what kind of trouble?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026well, first there was a bear\u2026\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd then Joe got bit by a snake\u2026\u201d added Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cA snake!\u201d Ben practically shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but it\u2019s okay\u2026Adam sucked the poison out of my leg,\u201d grinned Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen there were those three men\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat three men?\u201d Ben quizzed.<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s brow moved upward and he swallowed, glancing at Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe ones who did that to Joe\u2019s face\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben turned to study the bruises, noting the assortment of colors.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt don\u2019t hurt\u2026much,\u201d Joe said in a weak voice. \u201cNot as much as these rope burns,\u201d he added, holding out his hands for his father to see.<\/p>\n

Ben reached out and touched the burns on Joe\u2019s wrists, lightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI got him free just as soon as I could\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe sure did, Pa\u2026for awhile I thought I was a goner, what with the fire and all\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFire?\u201d Ben muttered, glancing around at all three sons.<\/p>\n

Hoss was standing to the side, arms folded across his massive chest, obviously enjoying watching Adam and Joe squirm, relieved that for a change, he wasn\u2019t involved.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe line shack,\u201d Adam said. \u201cThey set fire to it, with Joe in it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT? WHO SET FIRE TO IT!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThose three men\u2026they wanted a hundred thousand dollars or they were going to kill me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I saved him\u2026I had to kill a couple of them\u2026\u201d Adam said, filling in the information.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes roll upward, his patience was beginning to wear thin. \u201cJust a couple?\u201d he said with a touch of sarcasm.<\/p>\n

\u201cI killed one,\u201d Joe said, holding up one lone finger. \u201cHe was going to shoot Adam in the back\u2026I had no other choice\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s right Pa, he saved my life\u2026\u201d smiled Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe line shack is gone, Pa\u2026sorry,\u201d muttered Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t our fault, honest,\u201d Adam added.<\/p>\n

Ben, his face unreadable, looked from one to the other, studying their expressions closely. He wasn\u2019t sure about everything he was hearing, but one thing he was certain of, his sons had found their way back to one another.<\/p>\n

\u2018Love, it\u2019s like a violin, the music might stop for awhile, but the strings remain forever,\u2019 thought Ben.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Joe\u2026I want both of you inside\u2026RIGHT NOW!\u201d Ben bellowed.<\/p>\n

He pointed to the house with his long slender finger. He almost laughed out right when he saw the expressions on his son\u2019s faces change so suddenly. The pair didn\u2019t waste any time, they practically ran for the door.<\/p>\n

Ben chuckled. Hoss stepped over to his father and grinned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019cha gonna do, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat am I going to do?\u201d Ben smiled up at Hoss. \u201cI\u2019m going inside and have a brandy\u2026a nice tall brandy. I have an idea that my head is going to be pounding by the time that those two rapscallions get finished giving me all the reasons that they should never be allowed to\u2026well\u2026let\u2019s just go inside, Hoss, and get the facts, then I\u2019ll decide what I\u2019ll do about them!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever ya say, Pa\u2026but ya reckon they mended any fences while they was gone?\u201d Hoss said doubtfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026I\u2019d say they mended several!\u201d laughed Ben.<\/p>\n

It was obvious to him, Adam and Joe had mended their fences, and he wasn\u2019t referring to the wooden fences either! They had found the music too\u2026the music of love, unselfish, devoted love between brothers.<\/p>\n

THE END<\/p>\n

October 2004<\/p>\n

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

Summary:\u00a0Ben sends Adam and Joe off together in hopes that the brothers can mend some fences…but not the wooden kind.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 PG (mild violence)\u00a0 (12, 730 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":10704,"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_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,1008],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12249","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/HP8b.jpg?fit=636%2C520&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12249","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=12249"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12249\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/10704"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12249"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12249"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12249"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}