{"id":12259,"date":"2004-10-01T08:06:57","date_gmt":"2004-10-01T12:06:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12259"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:09:24","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:09:24","slug":"one-more-brother-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12259","title":{"rendered":"One More Brother (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong>\u00a0 A WHN story for Credit for A Kill.\u00a0 When the shooting stopped and the last remaining Jordan brothers were pronounced dead, Joe Cartwright sighed in relief, his troubles were over.\u00a0 Or so he thought; what he hadn’t counted on was that Luke, Virgil, Boone and Walt Jordan had one more brother, and that brother was set on revenge.<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0 G\u00a0 (7,000 words)<\/p>\n

One More Brother<\/strong><\/p>\n

The man pulled the three horses to a stop and dismounted. He turned to a second horse and pulled the man that was stretched across the saddle down from his mount. The man landed with a thud onto the sun-baked earth and moaned softly. The first man glanced down at the younger man and laughed wickedly as he pulled something from a pouch tied among other things on his pack animal. He struggled with the item but after a few moments he dropped the heavy ball and chain at the younger man\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright\u2019s eyes widen in disbelief, but because of the ropes that bound him, he was unable to stand and run away from the offensive slave ware. His breathing became labored as he dug his fingers into the hard ground and tried to drag his body away from the hands that grabbled at his ankles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold still,\u201d growled Dave Jordan as he slapped at Joe\u2019s bound hands that tried in vain to push his captives hands away from his legs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Joe refused to stop struggling, Dave grabbed the front of Joe\u2019s green jacket, holding Joe upright and then drove his fist into the handsome face. Joe\u2019s head snapped backward and as Dave released his grip on Joe\u2019s clothing, Joe\u2019s upper body fell backwards onto the ground, ending his struggle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave took advantage of Joe\u2019s addled state of mind and quickly removed the boy\u2019s boots from his feet and tossed them off to the side. He\u2019d put them on the packhorse before he went on, being sure that Joe would remain in his stocking feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave Jordan grinned. It had been easy to sneak up on the kid and bonk him over the head, rendering him defensive\u2026and right in the very stable where the boy had murdered his three younger brothers, too! Dave had wondered just how he could catch the kid alone, but after watching Joe Cartwright leaving his friend, that Morgan man, at the saloon and make his way to the livery, Dave had run ahead, managing to hide in the dark shadows. The boy never knew what hit him, until he had awakened some time later and found himself tied across his own saddle and riding further and further into the boiling desert. It was just what Dave had hoped for, for the man that had killed his family, death by exposure, lack of food and water\u2026a slow, painful way for a young man to die\u2026just what Dave Jordan wanted for the man he\u2019d come to hate more than anyone or anything else in the entire world.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Quickly, Dave pulled a key from his vest pocket and attached the ankle cuff about Joe\u2019s left leg and snapped the halves of metal together. With his key, he turned the lock, securing the heavy object to the ankle. Only then did he remove the ropes that bound Joe\u2019s ankles together.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grinning, Dave Jordan stood up glaring down at Joe who looked with a horrified glance, into the man\u2019s eyes. It was the first time that Joe had really gotten a good look at the man, and as far as Joe could remember, he had never seen the man before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s see you walk with that thing on,\u201d Jordan laughed. \u201cIt must weigh about fifty pounds!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe rose up into a sitting position, his nostrils flaring. His lips were pulled tight, into a firm straight line and he gasped for each breath he took. He knew he was on the verge of panic but he willed himself to remain calm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t be serious!\u201d he proclaimed, still not fully believing that this man was planning on leaving him here, in the middle of the desert with this heavy object attached to his leg.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll die out here, like this\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPrecisely!\u201d laughed the other man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut why? I don\u2019t even know you!\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026you don\u2019t know me\u2026but I know you, Cartwright. And I know what you did\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean? I haven\u2019t done anything to you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The strange man\u2019s brow rose slightly and his eyes darkened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHaven\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried tugging on the short chain that ran between the cuff on his ankle and the heavy iron ball, but it refused to budge. With frightened eyes, he looked into the man\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026I haven\u2019t, but since you seem to think I have, why don\u2019t you refresh my memory?\u201d he barked angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright kid,\u201d Dave said as he squatted down, facing the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the boy\u2019s eyes, Dave could see the fear that the kid tried so hard to hide, but had little success. He grinned wickedly as he pulled a long thin knife from his boot and grabbed Joe\u2019s wrists that were bound with rope. As he talked, he cut the ropes lose and then stepped back away from his prisoner, leaving Joe\u2019s hands free. Quickly, Joe began rubbing the life back into his hands and fingers, making a scowl on his face when the blood began to flow once again and leaving his limbs with a tingling sensation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLuke Jordan was my brother\u2026same as Boone and Walt and Virgil\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave saw his prisoners face pale considerably and his own expression darkened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, they were my brothers, all four and you killed them all!\u201d he said in a voice coarse with hatred.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour brother Luke was killed stealing a horse\u2026it was never proven that it was my bullet that killed him and the others were killed when they tried to murder me in a locked barn, that\u2019s\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think I care why you killed them? Hell no\u2026I knew what they were\u2026but regardless, they were my brothers\u2026all I had in this world and you\u2026took them from me\u2026one at a time. That\u2019s why you have to die\u2026slowly\u2026and painfully. I want you to have time to think about what you\u2019ve done. I want you to remember their faces and when you die, I hope you go straight to hell!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave turned and stomped back to the horses. Before he mounted up, he paused and glared at Joe who was slowly trying to get to his feet. Dave watched as Joe bent down and tried to pick up the round cast iron ball, but the chain was too short to be able to stand upright with it in his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a disheartened groan, Joe let the ball drop to the ground and looked up, seeing Dave Jordan watching him. Joe swallowed hard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll need water,\u201d he said humbly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave Jordan mounted up, collecting the reins to Joe\u2019s horse and pack animal. He snarled in disgust at the young man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll need lots of it, when you get to where you\u2019re going, but right now, you\u2019ll have to do without.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan kicked hard at his mount\u2019s sides and the horses broke into a trot, leaving Joe standing alone with his heavy ball and chain. A new kind of fear filled the boy\u2019s heart as he watched the man ride off into the sun. For the first time in as long as he could remember, Joe was scared. He knew without a doubt that his chances of getting back to civilization was next to impossible, for he was miles and miles from any town. And he knew of no ranches, anywhere in the vicinity where he might find help. The Ponderosa was not even in his range. He was going to die for what the man claimed he had done. Die, just like Dave Jordan had predicted, slowly and painfully. But he wasn\u2019t going to hell, of that he was sure, not when the place was already full of men like the Jordans, Joe told himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe should have been home days ago,\u201d fumed Ben as he walked to the front door and jerked it open so that he could peer outside once again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss watched his father pace the floor but refused to comment. He knew that as worried as his father was about his youngest son, nothing he could say would still his anxious thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben closed the door and returned to his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m worried,\u201d he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Pa,\u201d Hoss responded. \u201cBut Joe\u2019s a big boy now, he can take care of himself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed and lowered his body into his chair. \u201cOf course he can,\u201d he muttered, forcing his lips into a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood up, stretching. He turned to his father and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you want me to go look for\u2019em, don\u2019t\u2019cha?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his dark eyes and looked at Hoss with a serious expression. He stood to his feet, his fingers he dug into the tops of his front pockets.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs a matter of fact, no, I don\u2019t want you to do such a thing. What I do want is for you to stay here, I\u2019ll go look for him,\u201d Ben said as he moved to the credenza and began buckling his gun belt to his hip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss jumped up and moved to stand in front of his father as Ben readied to go.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026don\u2019t ya think you\u2019re worryin\u2019 for nothin\u2019?\u201d Hoss dared to ask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing?\u201d Ben said with a touch of agitation in his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He finished tying the leg strap and grabbed for his hat, turning to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEver since Morgan sent me that wire about the Jordan brothers having an older brother that was looking for Joe, I\u2019ve been worried. Joe killed that man\u2019s family\u2026oh, in self-defense of course, along with the sheriff\u2019s help, but Dave Jordan knows only one thing\u2026and that\u2019s that his entire family was wiped out. He doesn\u2019t care about the reasons only that Joe played a major part in their killing, and he\u2019s consumed with hate and wants vengeance. That\u2019s cause enough for me to be worried about your own brother\u2026\u201d Ben pointed a finger at Hoss, \u201cand you should be worried too, Dave Jordan is a hardened killer according to Roy Coffee\u2026he\u2019s killed for lesser reasons than what he wants to kill Joe for!\u201d proclaimed Ben as he turned to go. \u201cI should never have allowed Joe to go back to Morgan\u2019s!\u201d he mumbled under his breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben walked out the door, leaving Hoss staring at his retreating back. Hoss scrunched up his face and then grabbed his hat from the peg and snatching his gun belt off the credenza.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care what Pa says, I\u2019m goin\u2019 with him,\u201d he muttered to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Exhausted, Joe dropped to the ground, swiping the back of his hand across his mouth. Drops of sweat dotted his dusty face and rolled into his eyes, causing a stinging sensation. He used his jacket sleeve to rub away the moisture as best he could and then rubbed his ankle where the iron cuff dug into his flesh. His feet hurt and the hot, dry ground had begun to eat away at his socks, leaving the bottoms of his feet exposed to the crusty earth and more than a little tender.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced up at the sun and then back in the direction in which he had walked, dragging the heavy ball along behind him. The tired man shook his head, disheartened, he\u2019d only walked about a mile, if that far, and already he was drenched in sweat and coated in dust so thick that it practically choked him just to breath. And his left leg hurt like blazes, dragging the heavy ball behind him. Joe could feel the burning in the muscles in his leg from straining so hard when as he walked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Death loomed before his eyes, eyes that misted but refused to relinquish their tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Pa\u2026I need your help\u2026badly,\u201d Joe whispered, lowering his head slightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Ben\u2026but I haven\u2019t seen Joe since\u2026night before last. We shared a beer at the saloon and he left, saying he was heading home. I just assumed that he had,\u201d Morgan explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he didn\u2019t make it home, Morgan,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hate to hear that, you don\u2019t reckon he ran into that Jordan fellow, do you, Ben?\u201d Morgan asked with a touch of worry in his voice. \u201cThe Sheriff said he was a bad one\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Morgan, but since Joe never made it home, I was worried that perhaps he might have,\u201d Ben answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKnow if anyone has seen him about town?\u201d Hoss questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Morgan shook his head. \u201cNo, can\u2019t say that I have, Hoss. All I know is that the sheriff rode out this way about three\u2026no, four days ago and said that he\u2019d gotten a wire from the sheriff over towards Dayton that said Dave Jordan was released from prison last week and was headed over this way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pinched his lips tightly and mounted up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Morgan. You and Martha take care, and keep your eyes opened,\u201d Ben said, tipping his hand to his hat brim.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Ben, we will. What are you and Hoss going to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook for Joe\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWant me to ride along, after all, part of this was my fault and I feel sort of responsible\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head, \u201cNo, no, we\u2019ll find him. You stay here and take care of Martha, just keep your eyes opened, Morgan\u2026just in case,\u201d warned Ben as he turned to go.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Ben\u2026see ya\u2026good luck. Let us know when you find Joe,\u201d he called as Hoss turned, waving bye and hurried to catch up with their father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sun had begun to fade into darkness by the time that Joe sank to ground. He had shed his jacket hours ago when the sun was at its highest, leaving it lying where it dropped. Now that night was quickly descending and the temperature was declining, Joe wished he had managed to hang on it, for he was growing cold.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was nothing but wide-open space before him and behind him. There was nothing to provide him with a bit of protection and for sure there had been nothing during the day to hide behind to protect himself from the boiling hot rays of the sun. Joe, his eyes draw together in tiny lines, barely able to see due to the sun that had burnt his flesh, curled his body into a tight ball in order to keep warm. He shivered violently, muttered something incoherent and lapsed into a troublesome slumber.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s stable the horses and then get a bite to eat,\u201d Ben said as they rode into town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds fine to me, I\u2019m so hungry I could eat a whole steer,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re always hungry,\u201d Ben muttered, giving his son a teasing look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell shucks, Pa\u2026I can\u2019t help it\u2026I\u2019m a growin\u2019 boy,\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026well, why don\u2019t you stop to think about your kid brother?\u201d Ben growled. \u201cMight just be, he\u2019s hungry too\u2026maybe even thirsty\u2026ever consider him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A strange look came over Hoss as he fell silent and stared at his father\u2019s sudden bad mood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c I\u2019m sorry, son, that was uncalled for. I know we\u2019re tired, and we\u2019re hungry. Worrying about whether or not Little Joe is one or both, won\u2019t fill our bellies right now,\u201d Ben said, putting an end to the argument.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had stopped in front of the livery and dismounted. Hoss gathered the reins to both horses and with a hurtful look at his father, muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll tend to the horses, you go on down to the saloon and order supper. I\u2019ll be along directly,\u201d he said as he led their mounts into the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Ben said, stopping Hoss before he had a chance to move into the barn. \u201cI shouldn\u2019t have been so\u2026sharp with you, I apologize.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben extended his hand out toward his son and waited to see if Hoss would accept it. Hoss gave his father a grave look and then smiled, taking Ben\u2019s hand into his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cForget it, Pa\u2026I know ya worried, but just remember one thing, will ya?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t forgot about Joe\u2026not for one minute\u2026and I\u2019m just as worried about the boy as you are.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, feeling humbled by the gentle giant\u2019s words, nodded his head. \u201cI won\u2019t forget,\u201d he smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several minutes later, Hoss joined his father in the saloon\u2019s dining room. Ben had ordered two big steaks. As they waited for their meal, Ben glanced around at the array of customers in the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee anyone whom ya might think could be Jordan?\u201d Hoss asked in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe could be any one of these men. All I have is a description from the sheriff\u2026and so far, I don\u2019t see a man who fits it,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Their meal was brought to them and placed on the table. Hoss licked his lips in anticipation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill there be anything else?\u201d the waitress inquired.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, this is fine,\u201d Ben said, smiling. \u201cOh\u2026ma\u2019am, there is one thing, however\u2026some information.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The lady smiled at all three Cartwrights. \u201cCertainly\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you happen to know of a man by the name of Dave Jordan? He\u2019s about six foot four\u2026big built and has a small scar down the left side of his face.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The young lady seemed to be thinking and then suddenly, her face lit up and she leaned down close to Ben\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know him personally, and I don\u2019t think I\u2019d care, too, Mister. But he was here, last night, he spent time with Rosie\u2026that girl over there in the corner,\u201d the young woman explained as she pointed in Rosie\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stopped eating to turn to look at the girl the waitress referred to as Rosie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know if he\u2019s still in town?\u201d Ben questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The lady had straightened up. She shook her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026I couldn\u2019t say, like I said, I didn\u2019t want anything to do with him\u2026there was something\u2026odd about him. But perhaps Rosie could tell you. I\u2019m sorry, Mister, but I have to get back to work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With that, the woman hurried back into the saloon and began waiting on customers there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pushed back his chair, stood to his feet and wiped his mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be right back,\u201d he commented.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you doing?\u201d Hoss inquired, taking another bite.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to have a word with Rosie\u2026don\u2019t worry\u2026I\u2019m just going to ask a few questions, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The night air was chilly, much more so for the young man who lay beneath the open skies and twinkling stars, shivering because his flesh had been toasted by the afternoon sun. During the day, the temperatures had risen to an all time high, draining his young body of vital fluids needed to keep him alive. His body, coiled tightly shivered violently, his thoughts muddled and the images that danced before his eyes were distorted and fearful in appearance. A soft moan escaped passed his parched lips as the sounds of his dying pleas were carried away on the night breeze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben moved through the throng of men toward the bar where Rosie was chatting with fellow customers. He managed to squeeze in next to the young woman and smiled in greeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy, ma\u2019am,\u201d he said in his deep voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rosie grinned broadly at him, and was just about to return the greeting when a man entered and paused in the doorway. Rosie\u2019s attention was diverted to the stranger causing Ben to turn around to see who had caught the barmaid\u2019s eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as the man scanned the room and smiled when he spotted whoever it was that he had been looking for. The man walked slowly toward the bar, surprising Ben by elbowing his way between himself and Rosie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Sweetheart,\u201d the man said brazenly as he swept the young woman into his arms and smothered her with kisses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026Dave,\u201d cooed Rosie. \u201cWhere have you been? I\u2019ve been so lonesome without you,\u201d Rosie giggled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had some unfinished business to take care of\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat kind of business?\u201d Rosie asked boldly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave Jordan laughed, leaned his head down low and kissed Rosie again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt would bore you,\u201d he whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben could not help but overhear the conversation. He had recognized the stranger as Dave Jordan the minute the man elbowed him out of the way. Ben had held himself in check, though inside he was anxious to tear into the man, for stuck inside the man\u2019s belt was his youngest son\u2019s pearl handle .45!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced at Hoss, catching his son\u2019s attention with a nod of his head. Hoss rose, and slowly made his way to the bar. Ben was edged in on one side of Dave Jordan and Hoss managed to squeeze in on the other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave glanced first at Ben and turned to look into Hoss\u2019 blue eyes. He saw nothing of the animosity that dwelled within either man or was aware of the trouble he had brought to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Without saying a word, Dave grabbed Rosie\u2019s arm and started to move away from the two men who, in his opinion, was crowding him out. As he turned, Dave was somewhat surprised to find himself looking into Hoss\u2019 face, which was just as unreadable as the others.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet out of my way,\u201d warned Dave, looking at the giant of a man with an angry glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss clenched his jaw tightly, but stepped aside and let Dave lead his girl away from the bar. Hoss moved up to the bar, next to his father and leaned over propping his elbows on the counter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat was Dave Jordan,\u201d Ben muttered softly. \u201cHe has Joe\u2019s gun stuck in his belt.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 blue eyes rounded and Ben heard his son make a growling sound as he stepped away from the bar.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben quickly grabbed the big man\u2019s arm, forcing him back to the bar.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet, son\u2026hold up, there\u2019s too many people in here,\u201d cautioned Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll wait until he leaves and then follow him,\u201d Ben instructed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben motioned for his son to sit back down. For over an hour, they sat sipping their beer, keeping an eye on Jordan. When Jordan finally rose to leave, the Cartwrights gathered their hats and walked nonchalantly out behind the man whom they suspected of knowing the whereabouts of the youngest member of the family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave was unaware that he was being followed. His mannerisms were sluggish from the whiskey he\u2019d consumed and his dulled senses kept him from his usual alertness. When Jordan stepped into the livery to fetch his horse, he was caught off guard when Hoss shoved him up against the wall. He twirled around; his hand moved to the pistol hanging from his hip, but hesitated instantly when he saw Ben\u2019s gun drawn and pointed at his mid-section. The scraping of the barn door being shut drew his attention to the man at the door. Dave recognized both men from the barroom and quickly assumed that he was being cornered for having shoved the stranger to the side. The look of confusion turned to one of remorse as he forced himself to grin at the two men.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook, mister,\u201d he said, addressing Ben. \u201cI apologize for bumping into ya in the saloon\u2026I was just too\u2026hmm\u2026excited to see my girl, Rosie,\u201d Dave said, trying to explain away his rudeness. He smiled but it was obvious to both Cartwrights that the smile was just a mockery of what the man was actually thinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Still leaning against the wall, Jordan was beginning to get nervous. He let his arm slide down to his side and when Ben saw the man\u2019s fingers brush the tip of his handgun, Ben reached out and pulled the gun free of the man\u2019s holster. Hoss leaned forward and pulled Little Joe\u2019s gun from the man\u2019s waistband. He held it up and waved it in front of the man\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019d ya get this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave Jordan\u2019s mind seemed to clear in that instant and he made a snarl at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t none of your damn business where I got that gun!\u201d he growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to the boy you took this from?\u201d Ben said, stepping closer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan refused to answer, but he began to squirm slightly. He was out numbered to be sure, and he knew that if he were to get free of the imposing figures, he\u2019d have to keep his cool.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know anything about a boy\u2026and as for the gun, I\u2026I\u2026found it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a liar,\u201d proclaimed Hoss as he grabbed Jordan by the front of his shirt and hauled him up so that Dave\u2019s toes were barely touching the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat pistol belongs to my little brother and if you want to live to see morning, ya best be tellin\u2019 us what ya done to him? Where\u2019s Little Joe?\u201d Hoss demanded as he shoved Jordan\u2019s back hard against the wall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave let out a little moan. He pulled on Hoss\u2019 hands trying to break them free of his clothing, but it was of little use.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d better tell him what he wants to know Jordan\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan\u2019s eyes got big as he stared at Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, we know who you are\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen it was your kid that killed my brothers!\u201d Dave Jordan said in a loud voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man suddenly started to laugh, bewildering the Cartwrights and bringing them to a momentary silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell what do you know!\u201d laughed Jordan. \u201cI\u2019ll tell you about the kid\u2026he\u2019s dead!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan continued to laugh for about half a second\u2026until Hoss\u2019 massive fist split Jordan\u2019s lip and ended the awful sound. Jordan\u2019s head banged against the hard wooden wall and then his body slumped downward, his back scraping against the wood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All was quiet until Ben filled a bucket with cold water and tossed it into the man\u2019s face. Jordan spat and sputtered and finally opened his eyes. Roughly, Ben grabbed the man\u2019s arm and hauled Dave to his feet, shoving him toward the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, get a move on!\u201d he ordered, pushing Jordan along.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are ya taking me?\u201d Jordan demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo jail\u2026I\u2019m sure the sheriff would enjoy hearing your confession!\u201d Ben said as he led the way out, into the night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute\u2026you can\u2019t do that\u2026I haven\u2019t done anything\u2026\u201d declared Jordan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou just claimed to have killed my son\u2026for that you will hang, Jordan\u2026my son here, is a witnesses to the fact\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI lied\u2026honest\u2026it was a lie\u2026I didn\u2019t kill him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grabbed Jordan\u2019s arm and jerked him around so that they were facing one another.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMake up ya mind, mister\u2026did ya or didn\u2019t ya kill my little brother?\u201d Hoss said angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan swallowed hard. Going to jail would mean going back to prison\u2026and if the boy were dead\u2026and these men found the body\u2026it would be as Cartwright had said, he\u2019d hang for sure. His best bet would be to play along, lead them in the opposite direction and when they least expected it, he\u2019d make a break for it and hightail it to higher ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright\u2026alright, I\u2019ll show you were the kid\u2019s at\u2026he ain\u2019t dead\u2026honest\u2026that is, lessen he broke his neck tryin\u2019 to get outta that\u2026well\u2026I tossed him into,\u201d Jordan lied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell? What well\u2026where is it?\u201d Ben demanded, casting an anxious glance at his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s an abandon farmhouse about five miles out\u2026I caught the boy off guard and bonked him on the head\u2026I tossed him down into the well\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan saw the look of horror wash over the older man\u2019s face and he almost smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll show you were it is, but ya gotta promise ya\u2019ll let me go\u2026I didn\u2019t hurt the kid, but he\u2019ll have a headache\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust shut up and lets get a move on,\u201d clamored Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy horse\u2026\u201d stammered Jordan, pointing back to the stable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take him, you get his horse,\u201d Ben instructed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He grabbed the collar of Jordan\u2019s shirt and marched him down the darkened street where they had left their own horses. Hoss quickly saddled Jordan\u2019s horse that was still in the livery and then hurried to join his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tied Jordan\u2019s hands together and then tied them to the saddle horn to ensure that the man would not break away. Hoss gathered the reins and mounted up, leading Jordan\u2019s horse along behind his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben insisted that they push hard to reach the old farmhouse, worried sick that his son might have already met his fate by being in the old well for so many hours. He and Hoss were quiet as they rode along side by side, each lost in their own concerns for their youngest family member.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow much further?\u201d demanded Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben held his hand up to motion for the others to stop. He glared at Jordan who seemed just a bit too smug to suit him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust around the bend,\u201d Jordan said, pointing with his chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They rode on for another mile before the outline of the old house and barn could be seen against the sky. The closer they came, the faster they urged their mounts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As soon as the reached the yard of the dilapidated house, Ben swung down from his saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll, see if I can find some light, Hoss, keep an eye on Jordan,\u201d ordered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked around frantically for the well, but in the dark it was almost impossible to spot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d shouted Ben, cupping his hands around his mouth. \u201cJOSEPH\u2026CAN YOU HEAR ME!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben quickly found a lantern and he reached into his pocket and pulled out a match that he struck on the heel of his boot. He turned the lamp wick up and held the lantern high over his head, searching the yard for the well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere!\u201d Ben cried, pointing to the side of the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben started running toward the well. When he reached to opening, he held the lantern over the hole and tried to look down inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s too deep to see all the way to the bottom,\u201d he said with agitation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE? JOE!\u201d Ben yelled into the opening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The worried father listened intently for any sound or cry that might tell them that Joe was alive, but there was nothing but eerie silence that seemed to mock them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll have to climb down,\u2019 Ben thought to himself. \u201cHOSS BRING SOME ROPE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright ya varmint, get movin\u2019,\u201d Hoss ordered Jordan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss had his gun drawn and pointed at Jordan, but turned slightly to grab the rope from his saddle. As he did so, Jordan saw his chance and Hoss, unaware that Jordan had moved closer, was belted across the back of the neck by Jordan\u2019s strong fists. Hoss slipped to the ground without making a sound.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Laughing to himself, Jordan grabbed for Hoss\u2019 gun and then mounted up\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS, HURRY UP WITH THAT ROPE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

While he waited, Ben placed the lamp in an old bucket he\u2019d found and tied it off to the pulley, lowering the bucket and lamp, hoping to see into the bottom, unaware of what was taking place across the darkened yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan spun his horse around, screaming and yelling at the top of his lungs. The Cartwrights\u2019 horses bolted and ran off in different directions. Dave dug his spurs into his own mount\u2019s sides and raced off, into the darkness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT THE\u2026HOSS!\u201d shouted Ben, pulling the bucket up and setting the lantern on the side of the well. He ran over to where he could see Hoss trying to get to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d Ben said, concerned that his son had been injured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026dadburnitall, Pa\u2026I let that rascal get the drop on me\u2026I\u2019m sorry, Pa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter right now\u2026are you hurt, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was rubbing the back of his head and neck, but shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw\u2026I\u2019m alright\u2026what about Joe\u2026did ya find\u2019em?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo he\u2019s not in the well, Hoss\u2026I lowered the lantern down in the bucket\u2026there\u2019s nothing down there but dirt and rocks\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss squeezed his eyes shut tightly, shaking his head in disappointment. His lips were pulled into a fine, straight line and his eyes, had they been able to be seen, were black with anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s see if we can find our horses,\u201d Ben said, heading off in one direction while Hoss went in different directions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was half an hour later that the two men met again in the yard of the old house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat now?\u201d Hoss inquired.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s too dark to follow any tracks, I suggest that we bed down for the night in the barn\u2026it looked as if it were in better condition than the house. We\u2019ll rest for a few hours and then be ready to ride at dawn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dawn brought with it, a clouded sky and soft dismal rain, which only added to Joe\u2019s current misery. He awoke to the soft pitter-patter of rain gently beating against his face. When Joe tried to sit up, the aching in his entire body caused him to moan softly. He looked up, frowning and then tried to stand, but weak from hunger and lack of water, he wobbled helplessly and then dropped back to the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026my leg\u2026hurts,\u201d he mumbled, rolling over so that he could push himself up into a sitting position.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pulled his pants leg up so that he could see his ankle where the heavy ball and chain was attached.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGod,\u201d he muttered, seeing the raw and bloody mess.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He felt his stomach do a flip-flop and then start churning. His flesh had been eaten away by the iron cuff and left his ankle looking as if it had been caught in a trap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo wonder\u2026I can barely pull that blasted thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Taking a deep breath, Joe pulled what was left of his sock from the same foot, wincing in pain at the cotton material that had become glued to the dirt mixed with blood. As he removed the sock, pits and pieces pulled the soft scabs away that had formed and fresh, bright blood mixed with the crusty grime that also coated the bottom of Joe\u2019s foot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAgh\u2026\u201d Joe complained weakly as he worked to remove the second sock, which proved to him what he had already feared, and that was that his right foot was in no better condition than the left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh God,\u201d sighed Joe in a trembling voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked all about, seeing nothing different than what he\u2019d seen the day before\u2026a vast emptiness, and his heart sank. Joe wiped his mouth with the sleeve of his shirt and glanced up at the sky. The drizzle had stopped and the sun was intruding itself among the clouds. Joe knew that within minutes, the hot rays would be beating down on his bare head, hotter than the day before because of the rain that had only served to intensify the heat. Joe felt as if he were sitting in the middle of a brewing hot, being steamed and boiled alive.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Moaning pitifully, Joe forced himself to stand up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo need to just lie here\u2026if I\u2019m going to die\u2026it\u2019s not gonna be without a fight,\u201d he vowed as he lumbered forward, dragging the hefty iron ball along behind him and stifling his cries of pain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Hoss had easily picked up Jordan\u2019s trail and had spent the better part of the morning hurrying to catch up. Ben was livid; the vile man was the only person who could tell him where to find his son. He was sure now, that something bad had happened, how else would Dave Jordan have come by Joe\u2019s gun. The fear he\u2019d felt when he first learned that Jordan was out of prison and searching for his brothers killer, began gnawing away at his gut, leaving him feeling nauseous.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, look\u2026over yonder, on the horizon, a man,\u201d Hoss said, pointing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shielded his eyes from the bright rays of sun so that he could better see what Hoss had pointed to.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a man alright, son,\u201d Ben confirmed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He gathered his reins, nudging Buck into action.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s probably Jordan, let\u2019s follow along, perhaps, with any luck, he\u2019ll lead us to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It seemed that the harder the Cartwrights pressed to catch up with the man on the horizon, the harder the man pressed to stay ahead of them. When they finally did catch up, they were horrified at what they found.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan was using his pistol to beat the near unconscious man who could do nothing to protect himself. Jordan paid little mind to the fact that the Cartwrights had ridden up, guns drawn and ready to do battle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man on the ground cried out in a raspy voice with each blow that Jordan delivered to the battered body. Ben saw the man on the ground try to scoot away, unable to do so, but not understanding why, until Jordan paused long enough to look over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHOLD IT RIGHT THERE MISTER!\u201d shouted Hoss, sliding down from his saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The assailant whom they recognized as Dave Jordan stood over the crumbled body of the man. It was then that Ben saw for the first time, the huge ball and chain that had been attached to the man\u2019s ankle. Ben was appalled even more so when he caught a glimpse of the young man\u2019s dirty face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d shouted Ben as he jumped from his horse and ran forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dave Jordan suddenly raised his gun and pointed it at Ben, giving no heed to Hoss whose pistol was already pointed at him and cocked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t do it, Jordan,\u201d warned Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sank to the ground next to his youngest son just as Jordan spun around and fired his gun at Hoss. Hoss managed to move to the side, avoiding being struck, but he fired his weapon, killing Jordan instantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jordan dropped to the ground as Hoss holstered his gun and rushed to his brother\u2019s side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had gathered Joe into his arms and was gently wiping the dirt from the boy\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet the canteen, Hoss\u2026hurry, he\u2019s in a bad way,\u201d Ben pleaded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph\u2026can you hear me, son?\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss returned and soaked his neckerchief with the cool water and then handed it to Ben who wiped it gently across the blistered and cracked lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm\u2026\u201d whimpered Joe. \u201cWa\u2026ter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere you go, son,\u201d Ben said, tilting the canteen to Joe\u2019s lips and waiting while Joe drank his fill. \u201cEasy, not so fast,\u201d he cautioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d muttered Joe, looking up and seeing his father\u2019s worried face. \u201cMy leg\u2026ankle\u2026hurts.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u2026don\u2019t worry, we\u2019ll get that thing off,\u201d Ben promised. \u201cHoss, check Jordan\u2019s pockets and see if he has a key.\u201d Ben smiled into the weary face. \u201cYou just take it easy, son\u2026we\u2019ll get you home soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, weary to the bone, nodded and leaned his head against his father\u2019s chest to rest. Beneath his ear, he listened to the steady rhythm of his father\u2019s beating heart. Instantly he relaxed, knowing that now his father would take control and that before he knew it, his father would have him home, where he\u2019d be safe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was coming from the livery stable when he hit me over the head,\u201d explained Joe, two days later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was propped up by half a dozen pillows, comfortable in his own bed, explaining to his father and Hoss how it was that he came to be under the clutches of Dave Jordan. Ben sat near the bed and Hoss stood at the foot, both listening intently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had no idea what happened, until later when I woke up bound tightly and tossed over my horse like a sack of potatoes. My head was pounding and every inch of my body ached from the ride,\u201d he went on.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt seemed like we rode for hours and it kept getting hotter and hotter. I tried to look around as we went along; I wanted to get my bearings so I\u2019d know which way to go, once I got loose from that man, if I did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed hard. \u201cI\u2019d never seen him before, didn\u2019t know who he was or why he was doing what he was doing. You can only imagine what raced through my head when he told me his name was Jordan,\u201d Joe said a tiny grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI almost swallowed my tongue! And, I\u2019m not ashamed to say, I was somewhat scared, especially when he locked that ball and chain around my ankle\u2026and then took my boots.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe lowered his head, trying to regain his composure, for the incident had left him more than just a little troubled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe left me in the middle of nowhere, without water\u2026to\u2026die,\u201d he said in a whispered voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as Joe struggled with his words. He reached over and took Joe\u2019s hand in his, causing Joe to raise his head and meet the chocolate eyes. Ben smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s over now son\u2026there\u2019s no need for you to relive the incident\u2026there are no more Jordans\u2026I promise,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI certainly hope I\u2019ve seen the last of them, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI made sure, I had Roy Coffee check for me\u2026just in case. It\u2019s all finished,\u201d Ben said in his deep reassuring way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head, the words were too hard to say, but his father understood; Ben saw the relief wash over his son\u2019s expression.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, young man\u2026get some rest,\u201d Ben grinned, rising. \u201cCome on Hoss, your brother needs to take a nap\u2026and, you need to get to work. There\u2019s been enough loafing around lately,\u201d Ben teased.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss winked at Joe before leaving his brother to nap. \u201cTake it easy, kid\u2026I\u2019ll be up later and we\u2019ll play a game or two of checkers\u2026and, I might even let you win\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me win!\u201d laughed Joe. \u201cYou\u2019d best be practicing!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026we\u2019ll see about that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe snickered as he snuggled down beneath the covers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, Hoss, I\u2019ll bet you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no you won\u2019t!\u201d declared Ben, tugging on his middle son\u2019s arm and practically dragging Hoss from his brother\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019ll be no betting in this house!\u201d he proclaimed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door shut with a bang and Joe could hear his father and brother laughing as they descended the stairs. Joe snickered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t want to bet on that, Pa,\u201d he muttered, closing his eyes. \u201cYou\u2019d only lose, for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

THE END<\/p>\n

October 2004<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/g><\/svg><\/i> \"Loading\"<\/p>\n

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

Summary:\u00a0 A WHN story for Credit for A Kill.\u00a0 When the shooting stopped and the last remaining Jordan brothers were pronounced dead, Joe Cartwright sighed in relief, his troubles were over.\u00a0 Or so he thought; what he hadn’t counted on was that Luke, Virgil, Boone and Walt Jordan had one more brother, and that brother was set on revenge.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0\u00a0 G\u00a0 (7,000 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":5289,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23,13],"tags":[16],"class_list":["post-12259","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-whn","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-13-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2187,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-8.jpg?fit=747%2C569&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":10274,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=10274","url_meta":{"origin":12259,"position":0},"title":"When Hope and Fate Collide (by BluewindFarm)","author":"BluewindFarm","date":"January 7, 2015","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Everything was progressing smoothly, right up until it went so wrong. 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Rated:PG; mild curse words, just 3 or 4\u00a0 (14,900 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Adam-serious1.jpg?fit=304%2C304&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":13864,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13864","url_meta":{"origin":12259,"position":2},"title":"The Hostage (by Camera Chic)","author":"Camera Chic","date":"March 1, 2011","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Just a very short story about what one brother would do for the other one. Rating:\u00a0 PG for violence (1,650 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp 1x, https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp 1.5x, https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12148,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12148","url_meta":{"origin":12259,"position":3},"title":"First Notch (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"September 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 \"Sooner or later, the day will come when a man will force you into a shootout, and there will be no way out of it, except kill or be killed.\" Adam shared a bit of wisdom with his youngest brother the day that Joe was permitted to wear a\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":11839,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=11839","url_meta":{"origin":12259,"position":4},"title":"Do as I Say (by frasrgrl)","author":"frasrgrl","date":"September 30, 2015","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Ben has always tried to teach by example, tried to get it through to his sons how he expects them to act. 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