{"id":12312,"date":"2004-01-01T16:52:08","date_gmt":"2004-01-01T21:52:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12312"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:17:04","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:17:04","slug":"the-time-of-day-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12312","title":{"rendered":"The Time of Day (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong>\u00a0 Feeling rejected by his family, Joe joins forces with an old friend of his father’s to earn him the attention he feels is being denied.\u00a0 When things turn out different from expected, Joe suddenly regrets his decision and now feels as if he has betrayed, not only his father but his brothers as well.\u00a0 Will his father find him in time, and will Ben forgive his impetuous son?<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 <\/strong>G\u00a0 (23,800 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Time of Day<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Pa!\u201d Little Joe shouted excitedly, as he galloped his horse into the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was half way across the yard and turned toward his son, never slowing his pace as he responded to the greeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, how many times have I warned you about entering the yard at a full gallop, now slow that horse down, or start walking!\u201d finished Ben as he entered the barn and disappeared from his son\u2019s sight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had already reined Cochise to a stop in front of the hitching post and was already in the process of dismounting. He paused, mid-way to the ground, his eyes fixed on the barn door that his father had just entered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir,\u201d he mumbled to himself. \u201cNot, \u2018hi son, how was your day\u2019, not even a \u2018hello, Joseph\u2019,\u201d grumbled Joe, disappointed at his father\u2019s lack of warmth in his greeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned toward the house, nearly colliding with Hoss who seemed to be in as big a hurry to get past him as his father had been.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey Hoss, guess what\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot now Short Shanks, I got things to do,\u201d Hoss said with a passing smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe watched as Hoss entered the barn. With a disgusted grunt and a frown on his angelic face, Joe shrugged his shoulders and marched into the house. He paused long enough at the credenza to remove his hat and hang it on the peg and then to take off his jacket tossing it carelessly on the table behind the settee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A steady thumping on the staircase caused Joe to turn. When he saw his oldest brother, Adam, descending the steps, Joe\u2019s face brightened as he met his sibling mid way of the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Adam,\u201d Joe smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey Sport,\u201d Adam said, walking passed Joe and continuing on to the door where he stopped to strap on his gun and holster. He glanced up at Joe as he tied the leg string about his thigh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re home early\u2026you didn\u2019t get into trouble again, did you?\u201d Adam said, glancing up into his younger brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s smile died. \u201cNo\u2026why do you always think the worst of me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hesitated momentarily, noting the flash of anger that had so quickly sprung into Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Joe, I was only teasing you\u2026I didn\u2019t mean anything by what I said,\u201d Adam apologized.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stood before Joe, placing his black hat on his head, studying the young face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have something on your mind?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere is something, but I need to talk to\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The front door burst opened, interrupting the conversation. Hoss stuck his head around the door and looked up at Adam, unintentionally ignoring the youngster.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHurry it up Adam, the men are ready to leave and Pa\u2019s gotta get to town,\u201d Hoss said in a rush of words. \u201cHe\u2019s afraid he\u2019s gonna miss the stage, ya know that old friend of his\u2019n is comin\u2019 today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m coming,\u201d Adam said, grabbing his coat. He turned back to Joe. \u201cSorry kid, but duty calls. I\u2019ll see you later, try to stay out of trouble,\u201d chuckled Adam has he tossled Joe\u2019s thick curls.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe jerked his head back, angered once more by the rude interruption.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cForget it,\u201d he growled as Adam shut the door behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood alone in the room for several minutes, allowing his anger and disappointment to get the better of him. He turned and walked across the room, stopping at the fireplace and withdrawing a slip of paper from his pocket. Joe unfolded the paper and allowed his eyes to scan over the neatly written words, reading the invitation silently to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tears stung his eyes, but he willed himself not to cry as he wadded the note into a ball and tossed it into the lingering embers. For a brief moment, the fire flicker with new life as the flames gobbled up the paper and slowly began to dwindle down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe heard the turning of the latch on the front door and quickly wiped dry his eyes. He turned and dashed up the stairs, distancing himself from whomever it was that had just entered the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time that Joe had reached his bedroom, he heard the door downstairs close and then heard his father\u2019s footsteps as Ben walked to the foot of the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d Ben called loudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood with his back pressed against the closed door. He was angry, hurt and though he was unaware of what he was doing, he was wallowing in self-pity. It had been like this for nearly a week now, his father coming and going, never having time for him anymore, or so it seemed to the fifteen-year old. Things were no better where his brothers were concerned either, they seemed to never be home and when they were, they paid him little or no mind at all. And Joe was tired of being ignored; yet he could not force himself to answer the call.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d Ben called a second time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The disheartened youth pressed his back tighter, if possible, against the door. He fought against the tears that threatened to spill forth from his eyes that had suddenly flooded over. Joe sighed deeply and moved to his bed where he threw himself, face down, onto the soft mattress. He had tried for the last three days to give his father the handwritten invitation, inviting Ben to be his guest at a special dinner given in honor of all the local boys who attended the Virginia City School and their fathers. It was a father and son banquet and there was to be an awards presentation afterwards for some of the boys who had made the honors roll. It was the first time ever that Joe had had his name placed at the top of the list and Joe had planned on surprising his father with the news on the night of the dinner. But now, it looked to Joe as if he\u2019d never get the chance, for his father had seemed to be most evasive and as of yet, Joe had failed to deliver the invitation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019M LEVAING NOW, JOE\u2026I HAVE TO GO INTO TOWN TO MEET THE STAGE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat all the shouting about?\u201d chirped Hop Sing as he padded softly into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben spun around, not realizing that Hop Sing stood so close behind him. He chuckled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Hop Sing, but I thought for sure Little Joe came into the house. Oh well,\u201d Ben said, moving toward the door. \u201cIf you don\u2019t mind, tell Joe that I\u2019ll be back late, I have to meet the stage,\u201d smiled Ben as his hand pulled on the latch and the door opened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMake sure you remind him that we have a guest coming for dinner and that I expect him cleaned up and presentable,\u201d Ben ordered. It was obvious that the patriarch was in a good mood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing shuffled along behind Ben, following him to the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoss no worry, Hop Sing make sure number three son wash behind ears and under finger nails,\u201d smiled Hop Sing, bowing his head low. \u201cYou go now, not want to miss stage and keep old friend waiting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Hop Sing, I\u2019ll do just that,\u201d laughed Ben going out and closing the door behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing checked to be sure that the door was closed tightly and turned, stopping suddenly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy you not answer father\u2019s call?\u201d he said, seeing Joe standing at the top of the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He waited for a response but Joe only turned and made his way back to his room. Hop Sing shrugged his shoulders, muttering something that only he understood, and returned to his kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBenjamin Cartwright, you old son-of-a-gun!\u201d shouted William Harding as he emerged from the coach.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill!\u201d exclaimed Ben, grabbing the man\u2019s outstretched hand and pumping it up and down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William Harding grabbed Ben into a bear hug and squeezed tightly, lifting Ben\u2019s feet from the ground and laughing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure are a sight for sore eyes,\u201d Will announced when he had placed Ben back on the ground. Will held his hands on his friend\u2019s shoulders and looked into Ben\u2019s face, smiling broadly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou look just like I remember you looking, Ben,\u201d laughed the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben snickered along with his old friend, \u201cYou haven\u2019t changed much yourself! Why look at you, you\u2019re as fit as a fiddle.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will patted his belly and chuckled. \u201cPut on a few pounds,\u201d he laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both men snickered as Ben grabbed for Will\u2019s satchel and guided him toward the waiting buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Will, I\u2019m most anxious for you to meet my sons,\u201d Ben said while tossing the bag into the back of the buggy. \u201cYou wouldn\u2019t believe how much Adam has grown, or Hoss for that matter. And Little Joe, he\u2019s the image of his mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I still find it amazing that the beautiful Marie d\u2019Olivier chose you, when she could have had a much more refined, sophisticated man like myself,\u201d laughed William Harding with a slight undertone that Ben failed to recognize.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben slapped the reins down against the team\u2019s rumps and clicked to them. He turned slightly toward his old friend and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose she could have, but Marie was not a woman who sought after certain things, such as notoriety and wealth such as you so obviously could have provided for her. She preferred the simpler things in life, such as peace from prying eyes and a place where she didn\u2019t have to always feel as if she needed to prove herself, and family\u2026all of which I was able to provide,\u201d Ben explained. \u201cShe loved it here Will\u2026she loved my boys, and she adorned her son. Here, on the Ponderosa, Marie was most free of the bigotry, and narrow-mindedness that surrounded her in New Orleans, here she was able to put aside her past and learn to really live. She was\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben snickered softly. \u201cThere\u2019s no need for me to explain to you, Will, what Marie was like. You knew her almost as well as I did, I\u2019m sorry for rattling on so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo need to apologize, Ben, it\u2019s quite obvious that you are still very much in love with her. Tell me, how long has it been now, five or six years?\u201d questioned Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMore like ten, almost eleven years, Will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat long?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Little Joe was only five when his mother died, and he\u2019s nearly sixteen now,\u201d Ben said. \u201cSometimes it\u2019s hard to imagine that it\u2019s been that long, it seems like only yesterday, and then I see Joseph come bursting into the house, nearly a man now, and I find myself wondering where the years have gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am most anxious to meet this young man,\u201d smiled Will. He glanced at Ben with his dark eyes and continued to smile. \u201cYou do realize don\u2019t you Benjamin, that the boy might have well been my son, rather than yours\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s own dark eyes flashed, as he turned, stunned by the remark, to face the man sitting on his right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will saw the look and was quick to continue. \u201cI only meant, had Marie chosen me instead of you, the boy might very well have been my offspring\u2026that\u2019s all, Ben,\u201d laughed Will. \u201cDon\u2019t look so worried!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will laughed louder, louder than what Ben thought necessary, but after Will slipped his arm around his shoulder, Ben let the comment drop and thought nothing more of the strange remark\u2026.until much, much later when he finally realized that he should have paid more attention to the man\u2026and to his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The conversation around the table was continuous with everyone trying to talk at the same time. Will told wonderful stories of his days at sea with Ben and of the times he traveled to remote islands, long after Ben had given up the sea for a more docile lifestyle, as Will jokingly explained to Ben\u2019s three sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was most interested in the stories that his father\u2019s friend told of the islands and the people who occupied them. Hoss listened with interest in the tale of Will\u2019s trip to Africa and all the wild, strange animals that he had hunted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was only when Will mentioned the fact that he was originally from New Orleans and had spent most of his younger years there that Joe\u2019s interest was sparked. The boy, who had been listening with only half an ear tuned into the chatter, suddenly raised his head. He listened for several moments before making a sound.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother was from New Orleans,\u201d he said casually.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A hush fell over the room as all eyes turned to Joe. Joe couldn\u2019t help but squirm a bit in his seat when he looked up and saw four pairs of eyes, of various hues starring at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced quickly around the table, pausing momentarily at his father before returning his attention to their guest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHer name was Marie d\u2019Olivier and she lived in the\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d Ben called in a voice that Joe recognized all too well. Joe turned to his father, somewhat taken back by the harshness of his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Harding did indeed know your mother. In fact, that\u2019s how your mother and I became acquainted,\u201d Ben said, softening his tone as he always did when speaking of his beloved wife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked across the table at the man who had been friends, not only with his father, but with his mother as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you really?\u201d Joe asked Will. \u201cCan you tell me something about her\u2026something that only you knew, that my Pa didn\u2019t. I mean, you knew her before my Pa, didn\u2019t you?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will cast his eyes in Ben\u2019s direction and noted how Ben had lowered his head and was watching him from beneath downcast lashes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes Joseph, I knew your mother well. We were children together so I had known her for several years, before your father met her. She was a fine lady, very lovely and most charming,\u201d Will explained to Joe. \u201cShe was very man\u2019s dream\u2026in fact,\u201d he dared to speak, \u201chad your father not come along when he did, she might have agreed to become my wife instead of your father\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam, who had been concentrating on the food in his plate, quickly glanced up at his father\u2019s expression. He then glanced at Hoss who was listening intently, as was Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss snickered, watching the expression on his little brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood thing for you Short Shanks, that ya mama married Pa, or ya might not have been my kid brother,\u201d heehawed Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face turned white at the thought that had his mother decided to marry this man sitting across from him, he might not have been, or\u2026he might have been William Harding\u2019s son instead of Ben Cartwright\u2019s. Something about the idea of being the other man\u2019s son repulsed him. The thought stuck in his craw and he lowered his head, letting the subject die.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben quickly changed the subject to other things and for the rest of the evening Joe sat in silence, paying only minimal attention to what was being said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss had excused themselves to the barn to begin the evening chores. Joe lagged behind, wanting a word with his father, but there never seemed to be a lull enough in the conversation that would give Joe a chance to interrupt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Will sat comfortably in the great room, sipping brandy and smoking their pipes. Though Joe knew it wasn\u2019t polite to interrupt his father, he realized that time was running out if he planned on inviting his father to the dinner for the boys and their father\u2019s. Joe sighed deeply, waiting for one of the men to stop talking long enough to take a breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Joe called softly a second time, beginning to become impatient.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Laughing at something Will had said Ben finally glanced up at his son. \u201cDid you want something, son?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, I\u2026\u201d began Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold on just a minute, will you Joseph, and let Will finish telling me about what happened to him while he was in Spain?\u201d Ben said, turning back to Will. \u201cSorry for the interruption, please, do go on,\u201d Ben said to Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will glanced up at the boy, noting the disappointed look on Joe\u2019s young face. He smiled kindly at the boy, who only scowled at him and then turned and walked out of the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe joined Hoss and Adam in the barn. His brothers had been busy with their chores and were just finishing up when Joe pushed opened the door and entered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned to see who had come into the barn. He glanced at Adam and winked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, lookit there, Adam, here comes slowpoke,\u201d he snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned and glanced at his youngest brother and smiled, seeing the disgusted look on Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t pay him any mind kid, he\u2019s just funning with you,\u201d Adam said as he set aside the saddle soap he had been using. \u201cI\u2019m finished here, guess I\u2019ll head on in and call it a night. We have to ride over to the north pasture first thing in the morning Hoss, and make a head count of those steers the boys rounded up this afternoon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Lordy, don\u2019t remind me,\u201d Hoss said, running his beefy fingers through his blond hair. \u201cHey Adam, wait up,\u201d Hoss called after his older brother. He turned to Joe, \u201cSee ya pumkin, ya hurry up and finish in here and be sure to close the barn door.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss! Wait a minute\u2026\u201d began Joe, but hushed when Hoss failed to hear him call out to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe folded his arms across his chest and sighed deeply. Using the tip of his toe, he kicked at a currycomb that had fallen from the shelf.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDadburnit,\u201d he fumed, using one of Hoss\u2019 favorite by-words. \u201cNo one gives me the time of day around here. It\u2019s like I don\u2019t exist anymore,\u201d he mumbled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had been working for sometime, currying Cochise, and cleaning some on that tack room. His father had not assigned the task to him, but Joe had no hankering to return to the house too soon. He was sure that his father and Mr. Harding would reminisce far into the night, and Joe had already resigned himself to the fact that if he were to get a chance to invite his father to the father and son dinner, it would have to be in the morning, before he left for school. Joe planned on getting up early and speaking to his father before breakfast.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy, you certainly are an industrious young man,\u201d said a deep voice from behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Startled, Joe spun around, nearly dropping the leather goods he held in his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I didn\u2019t mean to frighten you,\u201d Will Harding said with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t frighten me, you just snuck up on me. Don\u2019t you know better\u2019n to do someone like that? If I had been Adam, or even Hoss, you might have gotten shot,\u201d Joe said with a touch of sarcasm in his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned to his work, putting his back to this man that Joe had suddenly decided that he did not like.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSpirited too,\u201d said Will, mocking the tone of Joe\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe cast a glance over his shoulder and watched as the man made himself comfortable on an old wooden crate and watched him from the opposite side of the tack room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust like her, you are. You even look like your mother,\u201d Will spoke in a low thick voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned to stare at the man. Something about the man made Joe feel uneasy and he set the leather bridles on the shelf and faced the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust how well did you know my mother?\u201d Joe dared to ask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stood before the man who was ample in waist and of good height. Joe noted his hands. They were big hands, baring ten strong fingers and for a brief moment Joe wondered if this stranger were as strong as Hoss, for Joe and every other man on the ranch, knew the strength that Hoss possessed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

While Joe studied the man and his features, the stranger was doing the same with Joe. He watched as the boy moved around the small room. Will smiled to himself, he liked the boy; Joe was spirited, as he had mentioned before hand. Plus the boy was smart, just watching him work and the things that he saw Joe doing, told him that the boy had been quick to learn the things that his father and older brothers had taught him. The one thing that spiked Will\u2019s attention in the boy was the smoldering fire that burned beneath the calm exterior of the boy\u2019s guise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy was sullen, a mixture of hurt and anger simmered deep within. Will had watched the interaction between the boy and his father, and knew that whatever was bothering the boy, had to do with something his father had either done, or not done. Will wondered if Ben and his son had such a relationship, or if this was just a fleeting matter. Whichever the case, the youngster was most certainly displeased at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat has your father done, or not done, that has you so upset?\u201d Will asked unexpectedly, surprising himself as well as the boy, who spun around in shock.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what you\u2019re talking about,\u201d Joe said, eyeing the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re upset with your father, and he doesn\u2019t seem to have noticed, but I have. I watched you this afternoon when I arrived, the way you stood off to yourself, out of the way. And then again during supper, you were very quiet, hardly speaking to anyone at all. And you kept glancing at your father, as if you wanted to say something to him. But Ben was far to busy seeing that everything was just right for his guest, and too busy issuing orders to your brothers for the morrow. He hardly gave you the time a day, and that makes you mad\u2026doesn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was shaken by the man\u2019s keen-sightedness and he turned his back to the gentleman, not wanting to let the stranger see how his words had affected him. Joe lowered his head and swallowed several times to wash away the thickness in his throat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will rose softly from his perch and moved to stand behind the boy. Almost tenderly, he placed both hands on Joe\u2019s shoulders and turned Joe so that he could look down into his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI knew your mother well enough that you might well have been my son, instead of Ben Cartwright\u2019s son,\u201d Will said in a gentle whisper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand\u2026how?\u201d Joe said. He remembered the statement had been made earlier, at supper and he had wondered about it then as well as now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother and I had known one another for several years. I had always loved her, from the very first moment that I met her\u2026even after she married her first husband, I continued to love her. When her husband went away, I was the one who remained steadfast; I was the one who helped your mother through all the days and nights of torment that her husband\u2019s family put her through. I even asked Marie to divorce her husband and marry me, so that I could take care of her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will removed his hands from Joe\u2019s shoulders and walked further into the room, his back to Joe. Joe turned and followed the man\u2019s movements with his eyes. He could hardly believe his ears, he could never imagine his mother even considering the idea of divorce, let alone actually doing it, regardless of how bad her situation might have become.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe would have too, but then your father arrived in New Orleans with the news that her husband had been killed. As horrible as it sounds, Joseph, I was happy that the man had died. I thought that now, Marie and I could be married and she\u2019d avoid more nasty gossip by not having to go through with a divorce. But your father stayed\u2026and stayed, for months in New Orleans. He refused to leave her side, he crowded into our lives, filling her head with wild dreams and enticing her with promises that only confused her and of which I\u2019m sure were never fulfilled.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will spun around, looking at Joe with such hatred that it forced Joe to take a step backwards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe married him. She just up and married him without telling a soul, without giving me warning. Do you know what that did to me? I thought she loved me, I believed your father to be a friend\u2026but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will suddenly stopped speaking. For a moment he had lost himself as to the real reason why he was here. He smiled, softening his features, for he had seen the uncertainty that had clouded Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd he is my friend, your father, I mean. I got over what happened, years ago.\u201d The big man approached Joe, placing his hand gently under Joe\u2019s chin and raising his head slightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish you had been my son. I would never snub you; you would always have my full attention. I\u2019d never be so busy that I could not spare time for you, nor would I ever fail to listen to what you had to say. Why, I bet even your brothers mock you and rarely ever take you seriously, am I right?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head up and down. \u201cSometimes,\u201d he said in a small voice. \u201cBut Pa\u2019s not always so busy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh, but he is boy\u2026I\u2019ve only been here one day and I can already see that my dear friend devotes more time to running this ranch than in what his son has to say. You were trying to tell him something, were you not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed; he felt uncomfortable with the man\u2019s questions, but what he had said, had been the truth. There would be no lying, for the man had already seen through him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir\u2026\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will smiled. \u201cAnd for how many days now have you been trying to get your father\u2019s attention and tell your father this\u2026something?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again, Joe swallowed. \u201cAll week\u2026but it\u2019s been round up time and Pa\u2019s been\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026no need to explain to me. You don\u2019t have to defend your father, I probably know Ben Cartwright better than anyone\u2026I know his strengths\u2026and his weaknesses,\u201d Will said as he gently pulled Joe into a hug and held him tightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried to pull free of the restraining arms, but the gentleman held him securely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t try to hide your feelings from me, son\u2026I know how deeply your father\u2019s lack of interest in you has hurt you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will entwined his long fingers amid the chestnut curls and pressed Joe\u2019s head to his breast.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be here for you\u2026always. You just come to me when you have a problem and I\u2019ll help you anyway I can\u2026just like I did for your mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will released his fingers from Joe\u2019s curls and held the boy at arm\u2019s length.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour father is a busy man, he has responsibilities, commitments, and your brothers have their duties to fulfill as well, not to mention the fact that they are grown men and have a life of their own. They don\u2019t always want to be bothered with a boy, but I do Joseph, I\u2019d like to be your friend. I\u2019d like it if you came to me with your troubles and I hope that you will learn to confide in me\u2026and not worry your father with meaningless matters.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Placing his hand across the back of Joe\u2019s shoulder, Will guided Joe toward the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou think about what I\u2019ve said Joseph, I\u2019m here for you, any time of the day, or night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened the front door softly and let himself in. The room was quiet and empty of any habitants. Joe slipped into the kitchen to check, thinking perhaps Ben had gone to pour himself a cup of coffee, but Ben was not there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Disgusted by what Will Harding had called, his father\u2019s lack of interest, Joe turned to the stairs and slowly began to make his way upward. At the sound of the door opening, Joe turned, only to see his father and Will Harding entering the house together. Their arms were locked about the other\u2019s shoulders and they were laughing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben happened to glance up, spying Joe on the landing. He smiled broadly at his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou best get to bed son, tomorrow\u2019s a school day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood where he was, looking a bit forlorn. He stared at the pair below him, wanting to speak up and say to his father what he was feeling, but before he could find his voice, Ben broke into his thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, get moving son\u2026go on to bed,\u201d Ben said, his smile gone now from his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sighing deeply, Joe could only mutter. \u201cYes sir. Good night Mr. Harding,\u201d Joe called, giving his father\u2019s guest a friendly smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood night son,\u201d said Will, nodding his head slightly and returning the smile. He stood and watched until Joe had disappeared around the corner of the hallway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine boy, that one,\u201d said Will, placing himself down into the blue chair. \u201cI think Marie would have been very proud of young Joseph,\u201d Will stated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was pouring them a brandy, but he paused and glanced over his shoulder at his guest and then cut his eyes upward as if seeing Joe standing before him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know she would have been proud of her son. I\u2019m very proud of him myself,\u201d smiled Ben, handing Will his brandy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should be, he\u2019s a fine boy, Ben, a mighty fine boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will leaned back into the chair and sipped his drink. He watched Ben making himself comfortable in the red chair across from him and wondered what Ben would think when his son turned away from him. It was hard, but Will suppressed the smile that threatened to give him away. He had taken some time to formulate a plan on how to retaliate against his old friend for whom he blamed for losing the love of his life. Up until this afternoon, Will Harding had only thought about what he might do, but now, after meeting Marie\u2019s son and seeing the hidden resentment deep down inside that the boy was harboring against his own father, Will had decided instantly to use the boy to hurt Ben Cartwright as he, himself had been hurt. What better way to crush a man\u2019s dreams than to use his own son to do it?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will chuckled softly. Ben\u2019s eyes sought the man\u2019s face and he smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomething funny?\u201d Ben asked, expectantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will sobered instantly and shook his head. \u201cNo\u2026not really. This is excellent brandy Ben, but then, I shouldn\u2019t be surprised, everything around you\u2026including your sons, is excellent.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hurried to dress and ran from the room. As he dashed down the stairs, he looked toward the table, expecting to see his father sitting in his usual place, but the chair was vacant. Disheartened, Joe slowed his steps, allowing time to compose himself, for the only one seated around the breakfast table was his father\u2019s old friend, William Harding.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe slipped into his seat, he took a quick survey of the table, noting the crumbs of food left on each place. It was a sure sign that his father and brothers had already eaten and taken their leave. Joe scrunched up his face and glanced at the other man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gone\u2026and he didn\u2019t even tell me good-bye,\u201d Little Joe said with a touch of remorse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, son\u2026he was called to Carson City by the sheriff. Something to do with a trial I believe your father said. And your brothers left early as well, I remember them saying something about having to go to the north pasture to make a head count on some cows,\u201d Will explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled slightly and corrected the man. \u201cSteers\u2026they\u2019re called steers around these parts.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will laughed, louder than necessary, thought Joe, as he watched the man\u2019s face twisting up into a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI stand corrected, Joseph. I hope you don\u2019t mind, but your father asked that I stay and take care of you while he\u2019s away\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake care of me? What does he think I am, a little boy?\u201d Joe said disgustedly. \u201cI don\u2019t need anyone to take care of me\u2026I\u2019ve been doing that myself, half my life,\u201d he explained to the man with a touch of sorrow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will was gloating inwardly so that the boy could not see. \u201cWell, I\u2019m sure your father had your best interest at heart. Nonetheless, I shall be more than happy to\u2026lets say, keep you company, how is that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, who had begun to eat his breakfast, eyed the man. \u201cHow long was Pa planning on being gone? The father-son dinner is tomorrow night!\u201d exclaimed Joe, tossing his napkin into his plate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pushed back his chair and started to rise. The burning sting of tears filled his eyes and he turned his head so that Will would not see them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe won\u2019t be back for a couple of days, Joseph. I\u2019m sorry, but your father didn\u2019t mention anything about a father-son dinner,\u201d Will said as he tried to camouflage his excitement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe jerked his head around to face the man. He was angry and the well of tears had dried suddenly as his anger overcame his disappointment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course he didn\u2019t\u2026he\u2019s been so damn busy, he hasn\u2019t even given me the chance to tell him about it!\u201d Joe snapped with a snarl. \u201cGreat!\u201d he shouted as he started toward the door. \u201cThat\u2019s just great\u2026I\u2019ll be the only boy there with no father\u2026but hey\u2026who cares\u2026I don\u2019t have a mother either\u2026not that my father would even care how I feel about that! To hell with the dinner, I won\u2019t even go, and to hell with my\u2026\u201d Joe stopped, the tears had formulated once more and he turned and ran from the house, slamming the door behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William sat at the table, taking another sip of his coffee. He chuckled softly to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Benjamin, my friend\u2026look at what you have gone and done this time!\u201d the man muttered to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will placed his cup in the saucer and picking up his napkin, wiped his mouth. Carefully, so as not to scrape the floor, the big man pushed back his chair, rubbing his large beefy hands together in anticipation. Stopping at the door to gather his gun belt and his hat, Will took only a moment to fasten the bucket around his waist before placing the Stetson on his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sunlight was almost blinding as the gentleman made his way to the barn. He was sure that was where the boy had taken off too, and he was correct in his assumption. Joe was just finishing saddling his horse when Will entered the semi-dark interior.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you about ready to leave for school, Joseph, because if you are, I thought I might ride along with you\u2026to keep you company,\u201d Will said as he moved to stand behind the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was obvious to him that Joe was still upset and hurt by what was happening. Now was his time, thought Will, to step in between the father and son and create a riff so wide, that Ben would never be able to win his son\u2019s respect back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t goin\u2019 to school\u2026why should I?\u201d Joe snapped, turning to look up into the man\u2019s face. \u201cHe doesn\u2019t care what I do\u2026he won\u2019t even know I played hooky cause he doesn\u2019t care enough about me to find out,\u201d growled Joe, returning his attention to Cochise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carefully Joe backed his horse from the stall, stopping and giving a glance at Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t tell him, will you?\u201d Joe asked. \u201cI mean\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will smiled and moved to stand directly in front of the troubled youth. He placed his hands gently on Joe\u2019s shoulders, feeling the trembling beneath his fingers. With the tenderness of a loving father, Will pulled Joe into the folds of his muscular arms and held him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot if you don\u2019t want me to. But where will you go?\u201d Will asked in a concerned voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, feeling the need for comfort, allowed himself the pleasure of the man\u2019s warmth by lingering in the embrace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo the lake\u2026my mother is buried up there and I go up there sometimes, when I want to be alone.\u201d Joe turned to look up at Will. \u201cYou don\u2019t mind\u2026do you? I mean\u2026I\u2019d rather be by myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Giving Joe a smile, Will nodded his head. \u201cOf course son, I understand\u2026and I won\u2019t say a word to your father, if he should happen to get back home tonight, nor will I say a word to your brothers\u2026that is what you want, isn\u2019t it? You are planning on making them worry about you, aren\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow did you know?\u201d said Joe, surprised that this total stranger understood him far better than what Joe believed his family did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I was a boy once\u2026and because I think your father and your brothers are wrong, very wrong in the way that they treat you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do?\u201d Joe interrupted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCertainly I do\u2026and to prove my point, I would be most happy to help you get the message across to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will moved away slightly and sat down on a bale of hay. He studied the boy, pleased to see that he had Joe\u2019s full attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have a plan Joseph, a way to make your father pay more attention to you. Sort of, teach him a lesson\u2026are you interested?\u201d smiled Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026I don\u2019t know\u2026I mean\u2026\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026it isn\u2019t anything bad, and no one will be hurt\u2026your father\u2019s pride might suffer a might, but nothing that can\u2019t be repaired, once he realizes that he\u2019s the cause of\u2026you leaving home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, calm down and hear me out. This is what we can do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think?\u201d questioned Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t sound so bad\u2026are you sure it will work?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course\u2026once Ben comes home and sees that you are gone, he\u2019ll come looking for you\u2026that\u2019s when we\u2019ll let him find you. Don\u2019t you see, he\u2019ll be so worry about you, that he won\u2019t think about being mad at you for taking off\u2026it\u2019s bound to work,\u201d gleamed Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed; he liked the idea, somewhat. He was hungry for his father\u2019s attention, starved to be a more active participate in the running of the ranch, and had an inner longing for his father\u2019s arms to embrace him and tell him how much that he was loved. Joe thirsted for the same assurance from Ben as he was receiving from this man who claimed to be his friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright\u2026I\u2019ll do it. I\u2019ll ride up to the line shack and stay there until you, \u2018find\u2019 me. You won\u2019t let Pa worry too much or take too long in looking for me\u2026will you?\u201d Joe asked, beginning to feel the excitement building within himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In his young mind, he pictured his father\u2019s face when Ben found his hiding place, and closing his eyes tightly, Joe imagined his father\u2019s arms embracing him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will watched the boy\u2019s expressions, pleased with himself for the false sense of security that he had created in the boy\u2019s mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI promise\u2026only a few hours, just long enough for your father and brothers to come to the realization that your running away was their fault, not yours. After a few hours of searching with no results, I\u2019ll make up some excuse for having to go back to the ranch, and then I\u2019ll find the note and give it to your father. You did finish writing it, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, here it is,\u201d Joe said, handing the scribbled note to Will. \u201cI wrote just what you said to write\u2026that I was leaving, and not to bother looking for me cause I wasn\u2019t coming home\u2026ever.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, good, now\u2026you best get going. I\u2019ll stay here until your brothers come home and then I\u2019ll tell them that you never made it home from school. I\u2019m sure they will want to ride into town and talk to the teacher, I\u2019ll even suggest it\u2026and then when they find out that you never even showed up today, they will most likely send a telegram to your father, requesting his return.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will squeezed Joe\u2019s shoulder. \u201cIt will all work out nicely, I promise,\u201d he said, smiling down at Joe. \u201cYou\u2019d better be going, just in case your brothers come back early.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, I\u2019ll see you in a couple of days,\u201d Joe said as he swung himself into the saddle. \u201cOblivion, that\u2019s the furthermost point from here\u2026I\u2019ll be waiting there,\u201d Joe told Will as he placed in the man\u2019s hand, the paper on which he had quickly drawn a map, showing Will how to get to the line shack.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine, you be careful now, Joseph\u2026anything could happen along the way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will, I promise\u2026and Mr. Harding\u2026thanks,\u201d Joe said as he nudged Cochise into a trot and left the man standing in the doorway of the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will tossed up his hand, waving good-bye to the boy. He waited until Joe had disappeared around the corner of the barn before he began to laugh. Looking down at the paper in his hand, he laughed louder and wadded the note into a ball. When he entered the house, he went straight to the fireplace and tossed the crumbled note to Ben, into the lingering flames.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLittle fool,\u201d he muttered to himself, laughing once more. \u201cStupid little fool\u2026when I get finished with you\u2026you\u2019re going to be begging for that worthless, no account, woman stealing father of yours!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, he\u2019s not home from school?\u201d shouted Adam, giving Hoss a swift look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell Adam,\u201d Will tired to explain again. \u201cI went for a ride this afternoon, just like I said this morning that I was going to do, and I arrived back here in plenty of time to be present when young Joseph got home from school, just like your father asked me to do. Trouble was, Joseph never came home. I waited, hoping that you two might arrive earlier than expected\u2026\u201d Will paused, checking the reactions of both young men who stood before him with concerned expressions on their faces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would have gone looking for him, but being unfamiliar with the country\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam held his hand up to silence the man. \u201cNo\u2026you did right Mr. Harding, by waiting here. I\u2019m sorry I shouted at you, but in times like these, when Little Joe disobeys our father like this, I tend to forget myself and lose my patience,\u201d Adam apologized.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThink nothing of it, Adam. Perhaps the boy is just dawdling away his time and will be home shortly,\u201d Will suggested, knowing otherwise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The burly man smiled to himself in satisfaction. Here were Ben Cartwrights two oldest sons, plainly concerned for their younger brother\u2019s welfare, and angry to boot. William Harding pushed on, deepening their concern.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps the boy stopped by the fishing hole\u2026or\u2026dear God, Adam, you don\u2019t think something could have happened to him, do you? Why, I\u2019d never forgive myself if something awful happened to Marie\u2019s child!\u201d Will stammered, looking full of worry himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw\u2026Little Joe can take care of himself\u2026cain\u2019t he Adam?\u201d Hoss stated, giving an anxious glance at his older brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed deeply and motioned the others to join him at the table. \u201cThe little scamp had better have an awfully good explanation as to why he\u2019s late. Come on, supper\u2019s getting cold and I\u2019m hungry, not to mention tired.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam waited until Hoss and their guest was seated at the table and then began passing the platters of food around to each one.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf Joe\u2019s not home by the time that I finish eating, I\u2019ll ride into town and talk to Miss Jones\u2026as badly as I hate the thoughts of that,\u201d groaned Adam. \u201cIt\u2019s possible that the boy\u2019s been held over because he just doesn\u2019t seem to know how to behave.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw Adam\u2026Joe\u2019s just a growin\u2019 boy. He\u2019s only fifteen\u2026golly, why I remember when I was that age\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026but Hoss, you were always the perfect little boy\u2026you never got into trouble,\u201d Adam snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps your younger brother is making up for all of Hoss\u2019 goodness\u2026\u201d Will laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I can see Little Joe doing that. I bet\u2019cha right this minute, Joe\u2019s down at the fishin\u2019 hole havin\u2019 himself a grand ole time. It\u2019d be just like\u2019em too, what with Pa all the way over to Carson City, ain\u2019t that right, Adam?\u201d Hoss proclaimed as he stuffed his mouth with a big bite of mashed potatoes and gravy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 declaration was about as far from the truth as Joe was from home. Joe was struggling with the ropes that had been tied around his ankles and his wrists, pulling his arms over his head and attached to the iron bedposts behind him. The ropes were pulled so tightly about his flesh that he could feel his fingers tingling from lack of circulation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He tried to raise his head enough to look down at his ankles where they were held in place with ropes just as tightly bound. His legs were pulled wide and the ropes held them taunt to the posts at the foot of the bed. His boots had been removed as well as his socks, and Joe could feel the numbness in his toes as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe struggled, but his head throbbed from where he had been struck from behind and when he opened his eyes and looked around him, his vision was blurred. Joe tried several times to squeeze his eyes tightly shut and then reopen them, hoping to bring his vision into focus, but it was too no avail. As it was, the last rays of daylight had faded, making the small cabin interior dark and spooky, for when Will had knocked him out and brought him here, the obnoxious man had chosen to leave him in the dark.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Joe felt a cool draft, he shivered from the chilly night air that seeped in from the cracks in the walls. His stomach churned, though Joe decided that he really wasn\u2019t hungry and assumed that because of the intense pounding in his head, his stomach was reacting to the sharp pains. Joe tried to wiggle his body into a more comfortable position but was forced to draw in a deep breath as the spasms in his gut reacted to the sudden movement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For several long minutes Joe lay in muted silence, sucking in mouthfuls of air. He could feel his heart pounding within his chest and he silently cursed himself for having been so gullible as to allow himself to be led into such a stupid plan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFool\u2026\u201dmuttered Joe, \u201cI\u2019m nothing but a stupid little fool. Ain\u2019t no wonder Pa and Adam and Hoss never gives me the time of day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave in to his despair, closing his eyes to the gloominess that surrounded him. A sharp pain seemed to shoot through his temple and Joe turned his head to the side, groaning softly. The blackened world around him swirled, the ceiling overhead spun and just seconds before everything went blank, Joe felt sure that the bed in which he was confined, lolled from side to side as a ship lost at sea.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam mounted back up and turned his horse toward the caf\u00e9 down the street. Adam had been surprised to learn, from Miss Jones\u2019 own mother, of the father-son dinner that was taking place at this very moment. He wondered why Joe had not mentioned to their father about the upcoming event. Had the boy done so, Adam felt sure that their father would have made other arrangements about the trial where he was called to testify, and attended the function with Joe instead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam reined in his horse and dismounted, looping the reins over the hitching post. The street was crowded with horses and buggies and Adam felt a moment of awkwardness as he stepped into the crowded caf\u00e9. He stood, looking about the room for Miss Jones. Several of his father\u2019s friends called out greetings to him, for which he graciously responded. A shrill, high-pitched voice captured his attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright!\u201d the voice squealed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam fought the urge to cringe as the schoolteacher approached. He forced his lips into a smile, removing his hat and clutching it tightly in his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood evening, Adam,\u201d Miss Jones cooed. \u201cAre you standing in for your father tonight?\u201d she asked, glancing around behind Adam as if looking for someone. \u201cDear me, where is Joseph? Please don\u2019t tell me he isn\u2019t feeling well\u2026I thought perhaps since he was not at school today, that he would feel well enough to come tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was out? Do you mean that Little Joe wasn\u2019t in school today?\u201d Adam said, taken off guard by the new information.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, no\u2026he wasn\u2019t. I assumed that he wasn\u2019t feeling well. I was so hoping that he and Mr. Cartwright could have made it tonight\u2026you know\u2026Joseph was to receive an award. He worked extra hard this last quarter on his math and won the top honor. He told me he wasn\u2019t going to tell his father. He wanted it to be a surprise for Mr. Cartwright tonight at the awards ceremony, after supper. It\u2019s such a shame that they have to miss it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was at a loss for words. He could only nod his head. After a moment, Adam cleared his throat, finding his voice at last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me get this straight, if you don\u2019t mind. Joe wasn\u2019t in school today, and this\u2026dinner was for fathers and sons\u2026and you say Joe was to receive an award?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s correct Adam. Why, is something wrong?\u201d Miss Jones asked with concern.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure ma\u2019am. My father didn\u2019t mention anything to me about this evening\u2026and since he went to Carson City on business, I feel sure that he would not have missed this\u2026I mean\u2026\u201d Adam paused, puzzled by the turn of events. \u201cI wonder why Joe didn\u2019t tell any of us?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me?\u201d Miss Jones\u2019 muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s thoughts returned to the present and he tipped his head, \u201cNothing\u2026ere\u2026thank you Miss Jones.\u201d Before the schoolmarm could say a word, Adam topped his head with his hat and left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam made one quick stop, at the telegraph office where he sent a wire to Carson City, requesting his father\u2019 return.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Minutes later, he was racing back to the ranch, hoping that by the time he reached the house, Joe would have wandered home and cooked up a good excuse for being late and for not mentioning the special awards dinner. Whether or not Joe had returned, Adam felt sure that his father would want to be informed of the situation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss yanked opened the door and hurried across the yard toward Adam. Will moved at a slow pace onto the porch, watching with interest how the brothers huddled together and conversed in a secretive manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not home?\u201d Adam asked as soon as Hoss joined him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, he ain\u2019t here\u2026Adam, I\u2019m gettin\u2019 worried \u2018bout the boy, it ain\u2019t like Joe to stay gone this long. It\u2019s plum dark out here, and we both know Joe don\u2019t like to be out alone much after dark.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam let the air blow from his lungs as he placed a strong hand down on Hoss\u2019 shoulder. He glanced around the yard, noting their guest standing on the porch watching them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss moved his head slightly, following Adam\u2019s gaze and then looked back at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSumthin\u2019 wrong?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure, Hoss\u2026maybe it\u2019s just me, I\u2019m worried about the boy, but there\u2019s something about that man that bothers me,\u201d Adam explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced again toward Will. \u201cYeah, he sorta gives me the willies too. But he sure has been worried about Joe, he blames himself\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cListen Hoss, Joe makes his own trouble, most of the time\u2026it wasn\u2019t Mr. Harding\u2019s fault that Joe decided to pick now to come up missing. Come on, let\u2019s get some things together so we can ride out at first light if the little imp isn\u2019t home by then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright Adam, whatever ya say, I suppose it\u2019s too dark to do any trackin\u2019 tonight anyways.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUnfortunately, I agree with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two brothers walked slowly toward the house. They had just reached the porch when Adam remembered to tell Hoss about sending the telegraph to their father in Carson City.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe sure ain\u2019t gonna be happy when he hears what Joe\u2019s been up to,\u201d surmised Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose not. If Joe\u2019s just out goofing off, there\u2019s going to be hell to pay when Pa gets home,\u201d Adam said with a hint of laughter in his voice. He became serious and continued. \u201cI\u2019d sure hate to be in that boy\u2019s boots if he is.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo would I Adam, but I\u2019d much rather Joe be goofing off than laying out yonder hurt or\u2026or\u2026worse,\u201d muttered Hoss, glancing back over his shoulder into the darkness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes opened slowly. His mind seemed to be working in slow motion as he tried to gather his befuddled thoughts into something solid. For several long moments he lay motionless, just listening to the strange night sounds around him. When he could focus, everything looked different in the darkness, especially when one was unfamiliar with the objects around him. Joe craned his neck, trying to peer through the dense blackness, but there was nothing to perceive but ominous darkness beyond his own surrounding gloominess.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Something scurried across the floor, sending slivers of fear racing along Joe\u2019s spine. Outside, the wind howled as if it were crying out, calling from some far distant realm beyond the world where Joe laid prisoner to the iron bed. Joe clenched his jaw tightly shut and willed away his rising panic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A sound, much like that of a man\u2019s voice whistled through the trees, seemingly calling out his name. JOSEPH! JOSEPH!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Joe muttered in a timid voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

JOSEPH! JOSEPH!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe strained his neck turning his head toward the only window he could see where splinters of moonlight filtered through the tiny rips in the burlap sacking curtains that had been strung across the dirty panes of glass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA\u2026PA!\u201d screamed Joe, sobbing out his father\u2019s name.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tears he\u2019d fought so long to keep at bay, rolled slowly down the sides of his face and dripped onto the yellowed pillowcase beneath his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease Pa\u2026I didn\u2019t mean it\u2026I didn\u2019t mean all those nasty things I said about you\u2026I was hurt, that\u2019s all\u2026disappointed. I was feeling sorry\u2026for myself\u2026Pa\u2026please\u2026help me!\u201d cried Joe, allowing himself the time to cry out his repentance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry\u2026so, so sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa ready to ride?\u201d Hoss asked, turning to look back at William.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m ready when you are, son,\u201d Will announced as he squeezed his knees into the horse\u2019s sides, making the animal move forward and to fall into line behind Hoss who trailed after his older brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was late into the second day when Joe woke. He tried to move, but his body was sore and stiff and the slightest of movements sent spasms of pain shooting through his head. His stomach churned as much now from hunger than from the head injury that Joe was sure he had suffered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy moaned softy, and when he felt the wetness beneath him from where his bladder had betrayed him sometime while he was blacked out, he felt the tears flood his eyes and spill over. He shivered from the dampness, his sense of pride in himself shattered and for the first time in several years, Joe cried in earnest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026please\u2026\u201d he wept as he tugged at the ties that bound his wrists. \u201cAdam, Hoss\u2026anyone\u2026please help me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe allowed himself the time to weep and after several long moments, he drew a deep breath and brought his tears under control. He sniffed his nose several times and then glanced over his head at the knots that bound his wrists to the corner posts of the bed. Joe tugged hard on his left arm, and then glancing over his right shoulder, tugged at that arm. It appeared that the knots were tied securely, and it occurred to the weary boy, that it was just possible that he might be lying in his deathbed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The thought stuck in Joe\u2019s troubled, confused mind and the seed of doubt took root and began to grow. What if William Harding did not come back? What if his father and brothers did not find him? They had no idea where he was\u2026and why had he been so foolish as to let an old friend of his father\u2019s, who had once been in love with his mother, and who had since, made him aware of how much he hated Ben Cartwright, talk him into such a dim-witted plot to get back at his father. And for what, Joe surmised. Ben had been busy, sure, but it was a busy time of the year. So what that he had not gotten the time to invite his father to a father-son dinner\u2026right now that did not seem important at all. What was important, thought Joe, was staying alive and getting home\u2026and explaining to his father how this mess had gotten started.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced at the window; already the sun was setting. He tried to add the hours in his head, but with the dull ache that befuddled his thoughts, all the frightened boy could come up with was two full days and one long lonesome night he had already been held prison to the iron bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOblivion\u2026a good name for this God forsaken place,\u201d Joe muttered to himself. \u201cPlease God\u2026help me get outta here and I promise\u2026never to get mad at Pa again when he doesn\u2019t have the time of day for me. I know he doesn\u2019t mean to forget about me\u2026honest\u2026I was just feeling sorry for myself. Please God\u2026I wanna go home!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Late that afternoon, Adam, Hoss and Will Harding returned to the ranch. They were surprised when moments after their arrival, Ben rode into the yard. He jumped from his horse and ran the short distance from the hitching rail to the house and burst through the door. Startled, Hoss, who was coming from the kitchen, nearly dropped the tray of sandwiches that Hop Sing had fixed for the three hungry men.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d Hoss called, quickly placing the tray on the wide boarded table in front of the fireplace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam, who had just sat down in the red chair, stood to his feet and walked with Hoss to greet their father as Ben tossed his hat onto the credenza.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI came as soon as I got your message,\u201d Ben said in a tired voice. \u201cIs he back\u2026did you find the boy? Where is he? Is he in his room?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake it easy, Pa,\u201d Adam said, trying to calm his father. \u201cFirst\u2026no, Joe isn\u2019t back. We\u2019ve looked in every place we could think of where Joe likes to hide out. We\u2019ve found nothing, Pa\u2026not even his horse\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell he\u2019s got to be somewhere!\u201d declared Ben. \u201cDid you check up at the lake\u2026or over at the Devlin\u2019s\u2026what about\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026we\u2019ve already covered all of that. I even went into town and talked to Miss Jones,\u201d explained Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what did she say? Did Joe leave school with anyone\u2026who?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe t\u2019weren\u2019t in school yesterday, Pa\u2026\u201d began Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat! What do you mean he wasn\u2019t in school? Where in blazes did he go?\u201d Ben stomped over to the fireplace and sat down on the hearth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026hello, Will. I\u2019m sorry\u2026I was so busy with\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t apologize Ben\u2026I know how worried you must be. I\u2019m terribly sorry about all of this. When Joseph left yesterday morning, I only assumed he was on his way to school, and then in the afternoon, when the boy failed to come home at the appropriate time, I was beside myself with worry. I didn\u2019t know what to do, so I just waited until Adam and Hoss arrived home and then I went with them to help search for the boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill\u2026this is not your fault\u2026please, don\u2019t blame yourself,\u201d Ben assured his friend, gently laying a hand on the man\u2019s knee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood to his feet and turned to Adam. \u201cDid you talk to any of his friends, Mitch perhaps? He might have had some idea about\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam held his hand up to silence his father. \u201cPa\u2026there is something. When I talked to Miss Jones, she told me that there was a father-son dinner for the boys in Joe\u2019s class. It was last night\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked puzzled. \u201cThat\u2019s strange, I wasn\u2019t aware of it. I wonder why on earth Joe didn\u2019t say anything to me about it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced at Hoss and then again at Adam. \u201cDid either one of you know anything about this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir, not until Adam told me,\u201d Hoss replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI only found out when I went to see the teacher. There\u2019s more, Pa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMore?\u201d Ben said, moving to pour himself a brandy. \u201cWhat, Adam\u2026tell me,\u201d he ordered, downing the drink in one swallow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe was to get an award at the ceremony\u2026he won the highest honor in math\u2026but Miss Jones said that Joe told her he wasn\u2019t going to tell you. He wanted it to be a surprise\u2026when the two of you went to the dinner,\u201d Adam said, moving to place a hand on his father\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026I think Joe\u2019s\u2026run away\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT! Why on earth would the boy run away? Adam, that doesn\u2019t make any sense!\u201d shouted Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what we thought too, at first Pa\u2026but then, Mr. Harding explained to us, why it might be possible,\u201d stammered Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben spun around, facing the other gentleman, who had remained seated and who had been watching with silent pleasure the worry and concern written all over his former friend\u2019s face. Ben looked as if he had aged ten years, just since yesterday morning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do YOU think that my son might have run away? Has he said anything to you? Did YOU know about this father-son dinner?\u201d Ben ranted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, calm down, please. I only suggested to Adam and Hoss that perhaps the reason Joseph might have run away, was because he was hurt from the lack of attention he was getting and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLACK OF ATTENTION!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, please\u2026there\u2019s no need to get angry with Mr. Harding, he\u2019s been very helpful and\u2026\u201d started Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took a deep breath and let it out slowly. \u201cOf course\u2026I\u2019m sorry Will, it\u2019s just that I\u2019m so worried, please forgive me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen\u2026it\u2019s alright\u2026now, as I was saying. Ever since I first arrived, I\u2019ve had the distinct feeling that your youngest son has been harboring some ill feelings toward you. Now hold on Ben, please,\u201d William said, holding his hand up to silence any forthcoming remarks from the distraught father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph has said very little to me, in fact, I don\u2019t think the boy likes me very well at all, for whatever reasons. But that\u2019s not the point. I have been carefully observing him, and I do believe Benjamin, that the boy has some deep seeded anger, perhaps hurt\u2026maybe even some animosity towards you and his brothers. I don\u2019t think the boy is happy, not in the least,\u201d Will explained, masking his face with a look of concern for the family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI did ask him the other morning, if he had something troubling him, but he told me\u2026in not so many words, to mind my own business. I tried to get him to open up to me, but he just jumped on his horse and started to leave\u2026he did stop and turn back around. When he came back, he leaned down and told me to tell you, not to bother come looking for him. Ben, I hate to repeat everything he said\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you have to tell me\u2026I had no idea that Joe was\u2026unhappy,\u201d Ben said, faltering slightly as he glanced from Adam to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said that he was\u2026leaving\u2026going away. I asked him where he would go, but he said he couldn\u2019t tell me. I guess he knew I\u2019d come straight to you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t you tell me this earlier?\u201d Adam said in a gruff voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Adam, I suppose, deep down, I didn\u2019t think the boy was serious. I mean, after all, the boy has everything he could possibly want or need. I have no idea what would make him so unhappy\u2026\u201d Will rushed to explain. \u201cI didn\u2019t take the lad serious\u2026if I\u2019d known he was so prone to such irrational behavior, I would have mentioned it when he first told me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026you wouldn\u2019t have any way of knowing,\u201d Ben consoled his friend. \u201cI didn\u2019t even know\u2026Will\u2026what else did Joe tell you, please?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he started to ride off again, but I grabbed the reins, and practically pleaded with the boy to give me some clue\u2026I begged him not to leave you in the dark with worry\u2026and all he said was, \u2018tell my father and my brothers\u2026that they need not bother themselves with me anymore\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will watched as the color drained from Ben\u2019s face, and he pushed the knife in a little deeper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe told me that he knew you had always\u2026cared more for Adam, because his older brother was so much smarter, and more for Hoss because he never gave you a day\u2019s worry\u2026I\u2019m sorry Ben, I see how much this is hurting you, all three of you. I shouldn\u2019t have said anything\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo on,\u201d stammered Ben, \u201cis there more?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOnly that he felt as if he had always been a millstone about your neck and a thorn in his brothers sides\u2026and that he knew deep down that you\u2026you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat I what?\u201d Ben growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat you didn\u2019t love him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William Harding struggled to suppress the urge to laugh aloud. Ben\u2019s eyes darkened and his silver brows shot upward. His whole expression was one of total disbelief and shock. William wasn\u2019t sure if his old comrade was going to burst wide open from anger or break down and cry at the news he\u2019d just received. Nonetheless, the untruth he\u2019d just told Ben Cartwright had the affect on the distraught father that he had hoped it would. Will was sure that he had just widened the riff between the father and his youngest son\u2026a son that William felt should had been his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT? THAT\u2019S THE MOST PREPOSTEROUS THING I\u2019VE EVER HEARD!\u201d shouted Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben moved to his red chair and lowered his body into the soft folds of the leather. The wind had left his lungs and he struggled to breathe. He looked up at his two sons who stood before him. His eyes were clouded and Ben felt that had he been alone, he might would have broken down and cried.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat down on the table across from his father and leaned over, placing a hand on his father\u2019s knee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026you\u2019ve got to calm down\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben jumped to his feet and began pacing the floor. He whirled around, facing the three men. He focused on Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t tell me to calm down. I go away thinking that everything is fine with my family, only to come home to find that my youngest son has run away just because of some fool headed idea that he isn\u2019t loved!\u201d Ben marched back and forth behind the settee and stopped once more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss swapped anxious glances. Will remained seated, secretly enjoying the chaos that he had created. Ben pointed a finger at Adam, taking his frustrations out on his eldest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou may rest assured that if Joseph is just hiding out somewhere, thinking to worry me\u2026he will not be able to sit for a very, very long time, when he comes home,\u201d declared Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took a deep breath to steady himself and turned toward the kitchen. He paused at the door and turned back to the others.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to have Hop Sing prepare us some supplies. Get your things together; we\u2019re leaving at first light. Whatever Joe\u2019s done, and why he\u2019s done it, is beside the point for now. I will deal with his reasons later, right now I want my son safely home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben started to leave the three alone but was halted when William called out to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen,\u201d he said, rising at last and casually strolling around the furniture to stand with Ben. \u201cI hate to run out on you, but I\u2019ve been called away, I must leave first thing in the morning. I\u2019m terribly sorry, but duty demands that I go on to San Francisco\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded his head. His expression still bore the worry he felt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill\u2026I understand, please don\u2019t trouble yourself with our problems. I have plenty of men working for me that can help us look for Joe. You do what you must, I understand\u2026and I do thank you for what you\u2019ve done so far,\u201d Ben said in an appreciative tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Ben, I think I shall retire now. I thank you for your hospitality, and I wish you God\u2019s speed in finding your son. Good night.\u201d Will turned and nodded his head at Adam and Hoss. \u201cGood night Adam, Hoss, I\u2019ll see you in the morning,\u201d Will said, making his way quickly to the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood night sir,\u201d chorused both brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes opened slowly. He struggled to focus and see through the darkness that surrounded him, for the sun had set hours ago and left him in total blackness for the second night in a row.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His stomach churned with hunger and the steady pounding in his head, Joe attributed to the lack of food and water. It had been over two days since he\u2019d had anything to eat or drink and the result had left him in a weakened state. He could barely raise his head and he\u2019d given up fighting against his restraints, hours ago, for there was no need. Joe knew he would die soon, if William Harding did not return. The knowledge that he was dying and would never get the chance to tell his father how sorry he was, left Joe with little hope that his father and brothers would find him in time to say the things that weighed heavy on his young heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Already the lack of water had left his mouth dry and his throat so thick that he could barely speak above a whisper. The constant gnawing in his stomach and the sharp spasms that caused excruciating pain to his midsection left him withering in agony.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The opening and closing of the door, caused Joe to force his head around so that he might be able to see who had entered the shack. The darkness shrouded the lone figure in a ghost like silhouette, shielding the person\u2019s face from Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Joe said in a weakened voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The figure moved about the room, ignoring the boy who lay upon his deathbed. Once or twice, the man made his way to the bedside and gazed down at the figure of the boy who was too weak to keep his eyes opened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William Harding laughed. \u201cYour father is a fool\u2026a stupid fool, just as you are,\u201d he said to the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe must have no faith in you Joseph, for he believed every word of the lie that I told him. You should have seen the look on his face when I told him that you wanted to go away, with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the sound of the voice, Joe opened his eyes. He could barely make out Will Harding\u2019s features in the dim light. His heart sank, for Joe had been praying that his father would have come for him before now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Joe\u2019s voice was laden with pain and weakness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not your father, Joseph\u2026but I might have been.\u201d Will sat down on the side of the bed and gently caressed the side of Joe\u2019s face. \u201cIf your father had not come along when he had, Marie would have married me\u2026and the child she bore for your father, would have been mine instead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will removed his hand. His eyes had taken on a glazed look that Joe could barely make out. The man\u2019s breathing had become more rapid and when Will leaned his face down, close to Joe\u2019s, Joe tried to recoil deeper into his pillow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know just how much I hate your father for taking Marie away from me? I wanted to kill him, with my bare hands. But my love for your mother prevented me from doing it, so I made up a plan that would have resulted in an accident, and your father\u2019s death\u2026but the damnable Ben Cartwright took my darling away before I could constitute my scheme. I was on my way here to find him and kill him, but then I heard that Marie had bore a child\u2026you, Joseph\u2026MY SON\u2026\u201d Will took a deep breath and laughed. His eyes glowed brightly, his brow had beaded with tiny droplets of perspiration and his smile was evil and twisted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt his body tremble in fright. He was confused by what this man was telling him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour son?\u201d he muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYES! My son\u2026don\u2019t you see, Joseph, the reasons why your father and brothers never take time for you, why they ignore you and why they stick to themselves, making you to feel less than one of them? It\u2019s because you are my son\u2026and they know that\u2026that\u2019s why, when I told your father that you wanted to come away with me, he agreed,\u201d laughed Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe wanted rid of you!\u201d the vile man snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d Joe cried, forcing the words from the back of his parched throat. \u201cNO! I didn\u2019t say that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh\u2026you and I know that, but being the fool that Ben Cartwright is\u2026he believed it. I told him how unhappy you were, and how you resented him for the way he never gave you the time of day\u2026and he said that if you felt so strongly about going, then you were free to go!\u201d Will moved from the bed and towered over Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe doesn\u2019t even care enough about you to ask you himself! So you see Joseph, you are now mine to do with as I see fit\u2026and I have plans for you, plans I\u2019m sure you will not like\u2026\u201d sneered Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBy tomorrow, you will be like putty in my hands. You will be so weak from lack of food and water that you will be no trouble to handle.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will moved to the table and pulled out a chair, sitting down. He stared at the boy, who was already so weak that he could barely shake his head from side to side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m taking you to New Orleans, Joseph,\u201d he said after awhile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man\u2019s smile had vanished and was replaced with a sneer. His voice was deep and thick with emotion when he spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou see\u2026I care nothing about you\u2026nothing. You are a horrible reminder of what might have been, had your father not ever come to New Orleans, all those years ago. The fact that you are her son\u2026only makes me hate you that much more. I loved her and your mother once loved me\u2026until\u2026until\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will stood and inched his way back to the bed. He leaned down, an evil smile lurking on his face. He grabbed Joe\u2019s cheeks with his strong fingers and pinched the flesh tightly, sending slivers of fear racing up Joe\u2019s spine. Joe closed his eyes to avoid looking into the eyes of the wicked man, but the action only served to earn himself a backhanded slap across his already bruising cheeks. Harding grabbed Joe\u2019s face once more and held it tightly between his fingers, squeezing until Joe cried out in pain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKeep your eyes opened when I speak you!\u201d bellowed the enraged man. \u201cAnd listen closely to what I have planned for you\u2026hahahaha!\u201d jeered William.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere are places in certain parts of the city where young boys, much like yourself, are used as\u2026well\u2026there\u2019s no need to go into details about those things right now,\u201d Will snickered. \u201cMany people remember your mother\u2026and what she was. I will tell them that you are her son\u2026the men there will love a chance to\u2026shall I say\u2026use you, as they yearned to \u2018use\u2019 your mother\u2026hahahahhahaa!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt his throat constrict and forced himself to keep his eyes fixed on the deranged man\u2019s face. Will slapped both sides of Joe\u2019s face roughly and then backed away from the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can sleep now, come morning, I\u2019m taking you out of here,\u201d Will informed the frightened youth. \u201cAnd say goodbye to these mountains of yours, for you\u2019ll never see them again\u2026ever!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe must have left awfully early, Pa,\u201d Hoss informed his father as Ben joined both boys at the breakfast table. \u201cI\u2019ve been up since before dawn, and he was gone when I went out to saddle the horses,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStrange that he didn\u2019t say good-bye,\u201d Ben said as he poured himself a cup of coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGuess he wanted to get any early start,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben paused with his cup halfway to his mouth. He felt as tired as he looked, for he had slept little. Every word that his old friend had said to him in regards to Little Joe had weighed heavy on his heart and he had spent the major part of the night pacing his room trying to figure out what had inspired his youngest son\u2019s questionable behavior.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe stage doesn\u2019t leave until nearly noon. William would have had plenty of time for breakfast or at least a cup of coffee. It isn\u2019t even daylight yet,\u201d Ben said, sipping his hot brew.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have everything ready?\u201d Ben asked, turning to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir, enough to last us about three days\u2026if it takes that long to find\u2026Joe,\u201d he explained in a soft voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He glanced up from his plate to look at his father. Adam could see the sadness hidden deep within the dark brown eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we find him\u2026and we will Pa,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave both sons a nod of his head. \u201cYes we will, and when we do, I\u2019ll find out exactly what all of this is about.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sat down his cup and pushed away his plate. He wasn\u2019t hungry, he was sick with worry and the thoughts of the fried bacon and eggs turned his stomach.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you two are finished, let\u2019s get a move on. I want that boy home by sundown,\u201d he said, trying to make light of the situation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, on your feet,\u201d snapped Will as he grabbed Joe by the arm and hauled him upright. \u201cWhew, you stink kid\u2026but nothing I can do about that right now. You\u2019ll have to wait until the sun is up before you take a bath. Get moving!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s body swayed and he would have fallen if William had not been holding him in an upright position. With legs that wobbled and fought to hold the weight of his body, Joe allowed himself to be dragged toward the door. The ropes holding his wrists to the bedposts had been cut and in his weakened condition, Will saw no point in tying the boy\u2019s hands. Joe could barely stand; attempting to run was out of the question, thus the older man felt confident that his prisoner would not attempt a get-away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once out into the early morning light, Joe was told to stay put while Will led the horses around from the lean-to. Joe leaned against a sagging post that propped up the corner of the old, line shack and tried to focus on his surroundings. It was the first time in nearly three days that he had been outside and he wanted to be sure of where he was. There was no doubt after a quick survey that he was at Oblivion, the furthermost and least used line shack that bordered on the outskirts of the Ponderosa boundary lines.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will returned within minutes, pleased to see that the boy had not ventured from the porch. He snickered, seeing Joe practically having to sit on the step, too weak to remain upright for any period of time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will reached for the canteen that hung from his saddle and pulled the cork from the spout.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere, take a drink,\u201d he said, holding the container out for Joe to take.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Greedily, Joe grabbed for the canteen of water, nearly dropping it as his hands encircled the object. He struggled with the weight of the container as he used both hands to bring the water to his lips. Joe took several large gulps of the cool sweet water before Will jerked the canteen from his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up pleadingly into the man\u2019s face. Tears stung his eyes as he held up both hands. \u201cPlease\u2026more,\u201d he begged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will\u2019s lips twisted into a mock smile as he taunted the boy. \u201cMore\u2026here,\u201d he said, holding with canteen within inches of Joe\u2019s outstretched hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe attempted to take the canteen from his tormentor, but William backed away several paces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere it is, if you want it, come and get it,\u201d he dared Joe as he tipped the water receptacle upward and allowed the water to drain slowly from the canteen\u2019s lip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe struggled to pull himself upright. Clutching the post for support, he took a deep breath and tried to step away from his prop, but staggered and fell face down into the dirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The obnoxious man\u2019s laughter ran in the boy\u2019s ears. Joe had to grit his teeth to keep from speaking out, for he rightly feared the man. Several hours after the man had returned the night before to the old cabin, Joe had been afraid to sleep, for he sensed that the man\u2019s intense hate might lead him into murdering him in his sleep. He had struggled until just before dawn when he heard the man leave, before allowing himself to close his eyes. It was only when William jarred him rudely from his nap that Joe realized that he had fallen into a deep, sound slumber and was relieved to find that the troubled man had not killed him as suspected. It was then that Joe vowed to stay alive. The man might try starving him, and denying him water, but the man, so sure of himself, had not anticipated the strong Cartwright determination that burned deep down inside of him. That determination and desire to be reunited with his father and brothers would be what it took to keep him going, surmised Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His father, thought Joe as he laid face down in the dirt. Had his beloved father really said those things about him? Was Ben actually allowing him to leave on his own, with this stranger? Did his father care so little about him? Joe felt a catch in his throat\u2026surely it was all lies, for Will had lied to his father about what had been said between the two of them, but did Ben suspect his old crony of lying, or did his father believe the man to be a man of honor and good standing?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe raised his head off the ground just enough to see what William was doing. Will was popping the cork back into the canteen and then, as Joe watched he slipped the strap around the saddle horn. As Will started toward him, Joe lowered his head back down onto the ground. Seconds later, he felt the strong hands on his body and felt himself lifted from the ground and half carried, half dragged over to his horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUp you go Joseph,\u201d Will said in a near normal voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The big man settled Joe into the saddle and decided to tie his hands to the pommel. Joe was too weak to object and sat in silence while the man made quick work of the task. Will looked up at Joe and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s so you won\u2019t fall off. I\u2019m not worried about you trying to escape, where would you go?\u201d laughed Will. \u201cYour father cares nothing of you, your two brothers are happy that you are no longer under foot.\u201d Will placed his hand on Joe\u2019s leg and at first, gently squeezed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have a long trip ahead of us son, so you might as well make the most of it. When we stop later, if you\u2019re a good boy, I might give you something to eat, just to keep you from fainting from hunger. I promise I won\u2019t let you starve, but I\u2019ll not feed you well enough to regain your strength, until you prove your loyalty to me. Do you understand, Joseph\u2026it\u2019s either me, one hundred per cent, or I leave you tied to some tree, deep in the woods, where no man would dare to go, to starve to death. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will pressed his strong fingers deeply into the flesh of Joe\u2019s leg, causing Joe to feel the strength in his massive hands. Fear surged through the boy\u2019s veins, and his earlier proclamation of bravery, faded as the fingers, without mercy, pinched into his leg, just above the knee. Joe flinched at the pain and leaned low over his horse\u2019s neck, muttering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI understand,\u201d said Joe in a quivering voice as he glanced down at William\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, just so we understand one another. From this day on Joseph, you will obey my every command, or pay the price for disobedience.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With eyes wide with fright, Joe watched as the man turned and mounted his horse. He felt defeated, as he lowered his head. Joe turned his head away to hide the tears that swelled within his eyes. As Will led his horse through the forest, Joe turned one last time to see the cabin fading from view behind the curtain of tall pines and evergreens, oaks, elms and mountain laurel. Deep in his heart, Joe knew it would be the last time that he ever laid eyes on the cabin again. A sob caught in his throat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo long, Pa\u2026\u201d he whispered, resigning himself to his fate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was nearing the noonday hour when Ben finally held his hand up and motioned for his sons to stop. The weary man stretched his aching body and then turned in the saddle, a disheartened look in his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe might as well hold up here for a spell and have a bite to eat. Besides,\u201d groaned Ben as he slipped from the saddle, \u201cthese horses need a rest\u2026and so do I,\u201d he added as an after thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss dismounted and led their horses down to the stream so that they could be watered. Hoss dug in his saddlebag for a jerky strip, watching his father as Ben seated himself on a fallen log.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa sure does look beat, Adam,\u201d he said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced in his father\u2019s direction and then to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I\u2019ve been keeping my eye on him,\u201d Adam said, pausing to take a bite of his jerky strip that Hoss had handed to him. He chewed the tough meat for a long moment before speaking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell me something, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure\u2026what\u2019cha wanna know?\u201d Hoss replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think Joe\u2019s up to? It isn\u2019t like him to run away, I mean, as Mr. Harding put it. Joe hasn\u2019t done that since he was ten years old,\u201d Adam informed his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t get ya meanin\u2019 big brother. If\u2019n Joe ain\u2019t run away\u2026then what\u2019s happened to\u2019em?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss studied his older brother\u2019s face for signs of a prompt answer. He had just assumed that Little Joe had gotten a burr under his saddle and for whatever reason, had decided to make them worry a little about him, for the attention the boy must have felt he was denied. Hoss shook his head thinking, that doesn\u2019t really sound like Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Hoss. But something about this whole mess isn\u2019t right.\u201d Adam glanced again at his brother. \u201cNone of it makes any sense, none at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou boys ready to ride? I want to keep looking,\u201d Ben called as he mounted up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Hoss\u2026let\u2019s go, that scamp has got to be around here somewhere,\u201d Adam said as he led Sport around and mounted up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William had called a halt as well. He freed Joe\u2019s hands from the binding that held them to the saddle horn and pulled Joe from the horse\u2019s back. Joe, weak from hunger and thirst, dropped to ground in a heap at Will\u2019s feet. The boy clutched his belly as the hunger spasms gnawed at his insides and though he tried not too, the pitiful moans slipped passed his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William towered over the lad, smirking. \u201cGet up and get down to that water, boy. I want you cleaned up, you stink,\u201d demanded the man, giving a nudge with his foot. \u201cMove!\u201d he shouted, kicking out at Joe as the boy scrambled on hands and knees toward the creek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will led the horses to a small clearing, constantly keeping his eye on the boy. Joe lay face down in the water, cupping his hands and bringing the cool liquid to his parched and dry lips. He took several large gulps, instantly regretting hurrying to quench his thirst. His stomach abruptly knotted as the water gurgled deep inside and suddenly Joe turned his head, spewing the liquid onto the ground at his feet. Several times Joe retched, until all the liquid was gone, leaving him with nothing but the dry heaves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Behind him, Joe could hear his captor laughing at him. He turned his head slightly, wiping the moisture from his mouth, to see the man watching him. Joe quickly turned away, not wanting the man to see the hate that had begun to grow and fester deep within himself. He knew that if the wicked, deranged man saw what Joe knew must surely show on his face, William Harding would not hesitate to reign his fury down upon him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe staggered out into the water, letting the coolness wash over him. He ached from head to toe, but he forced himself to make good use of his time as he scrubbed as much of the filth from his clothing and body as he could. Occasionally he would cup his hands and take tiny sips of the clear water, being careful not to overload his empty stomach and have a reoccurrence of what had just happened. As he washed himself, Joe\u2019s eyes were constantly looking around him. His mind buzzed trying to formulate a plan that would get him out of there. He was lost in thought when the deep bellowing voice broke through to the present.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said, that\u2019s enough, now get out of there!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up, surprised to see William standing at the water\u2019s edge, hands placed firmly on his hips. His face was shrouded in a dark, angry glare. Joe hurried as best he could, to the edge of the water. He paused briefly to look up at the man and then moved beyond, to the warmth of the small fire that Will had started.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood over the blaze, rubbing his hands together as the water dripped from his clothing. He shivered as the gentle breezed whipped about him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will leaned over the pot he had placed on the fire and stirred the contents, smiling when he looked up at the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSmells good, heh?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head. Whatever Will had stewing, did smell good and the aroma set his stomach rumbling for food. Will saw the hunger in the hazel eyes and the way that Joe strained to see what was cooking. He motioned for Joe to sit down and waited until the boy was seated before dipping some of the soup from the kettle and handing it to his guest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEat it slowly, or you\u2019ll only waste it,\u201d he cautioned the lad who grabbed the plate and spoon that Will offered him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced up cautiously to look at the man. \u201cThanks,\u201d he muttered in a low whisper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried to keep from gobbling up the soup, but it was almost impossible. He was driven by his intense hunger and need to squelch the nagging pain that was a constant to his belly. When he was finished, he held the plate out, toward his keeper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMore\u2026please,\u201d Joe begged, expectantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will looked up from his own plate and eyed the boy. He laughed, taking the plate from Joe\u2019s outstretched hand. His answer was plain and simple and left no room for doubt to the starving boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt the tears sting his eyes, but he willed himself not to cry. It was the last thing that he wanted this despicable man to see. Instead, Joe lay back on the ground and curled himself up into a ball, trying to get warm. His clothes were still wet, though not dripping, but with the breeze that blew, he was finding it hard to get warm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will moved about the camp, keeping a watchful eye on the boy, who seemed to have fallen asleep. He moved along side Joe, towering over the lad and staring down at his sleeping form. Will squatted down, studying Joe\u2019s features and gently, Will brushed back a lock of Joe\u2019s hair that had fallen across his brow. He smiled and left Joe\u2019s side long enough to get a blanket from his bedroll, returning to cover the boy and gently tuck the sides in around Joe\u2019s shivering body. That completed, Will gathered more sticks for the fire and tossed them into the flame, setting the fire to blaze with warmth. He glanced once more at the boy, determining in his mind to transform Ben Cartwright\u2019s son into his own son. It would take some doing, he contemplated, but he would break the boy, one way or the other, but one day soon, Marie\u2019s son would call him Pa, and speak with distain of his former friend. Will laughed softly, calling to mind the horrified expression on Ben\u2019s face when he told him that the boy no longer wanted to remain on the Ponderosa. Turning from the sleeping boy, Will dipped himself another bowl of the hot soup and leaned back against a tree to enjoy his meal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTime to wake up, kid.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The words and the sudden jab of his tormentor\u2019s toe to his rib jarred Joe from his nap. He raised his head, expecting to see his father\u2019s face, for he had been dreaming that he was home, warm and safe, and sleeping in his own bed. Joe was sure his disappointment showed on his face, for William Harding laughed as he jerked the blanket away and rolled it up into a ball.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said get up, we\u2019ve got to move on,\u201d William said, moving over to where the horses were tethered. He gathered the reins and turned, leading the horses back to where Joe was standing, dusting the dirt from his clothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will held out his hand, offering the reins to Joe. \u201cHold on to these, I forgot my hat,\u201d Will said without thinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He carelessly turned his back to Joe, leaving Joe standing with both horses. Suddenly a thought flashed through Joe\u2019s head and he quickly turned and swung himself onto the back of the nearest horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYEA!\u201d he shouted, releasing his own horse and watching as Cochise bolted through the woods.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe kicked at his mount\u2019s side. The horse sprang into action and moved through the clearing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William, whirled around, startled by the shouting and the loud thundering hooves. He saw Joe\u2019s pinto breaking away, weaving in and out among the trees. The man broke into a run, racing with a speed that surprised the shocked boy. Joe dug his heels deeper into the horse\u2019s sides, but his reflex was off due to his weakened condition and the last thing Joe saw before he felt his body being crushed against the ground, was his captor leaping through the air at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe cried out as the weight of the man\u2019s body ground him into the earth. The wind knocked from his lungs, Joe felt himself hauled from the ground and then groaned as the man\u2019s fist drove itself deeply into his stomach. Joe doubled over, trying to fold his arms across his middle before William could punch him again. Joe\u2019s head was jerked upward by fingers that tangled amid his chestnut curls and Joe felt the stab of pain and felt the warmth of his own blood as the other man\u2019s fist connected with his face. The world swirled about him as the light faded and Joe\u2019s world became black. Will drew back his fist to strike again, but Joe slumped to the ground, unconscious, giving himself a reprieve from the fierce beating that he had earned for himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will stood staring down at the crumbled ball of flesh and bones. His breathing was labored and in his eyes a dark fire burned. He cursed softly, looking back over his shoulder for the horses. There was only one, the pinto had bolted and was nowhere to be seen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFool\u2026you stupid little imbecile,\u201d ranted William, giving Joe a swift kick to the back as he turned and walked away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will pulled the rope from his saddle and tied Joe\u2019s hands behind his back, snaking the rope downward and pulling Joe\u2019s legs up behind him, he tied the opposite end around the boy\u2019s ankles, leaving Joe bound and unable to move freely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will mounted the horse turning to be sure Joe could not escape and then rode off, through the woods in search of the other horse. He rode for a good ways before calling off his search and returning to the clearing where he had left the boy. When he dismounted he hurried to Joe\u2019s side, turning the boy over so that he could see Joe\u2019s face. Joe had returned to the present world from his darkened world of obscurity, but it was plain to the older man, that Joe was dazed. The hazel eyes that looked up at him were glazed and unfocused and only appeared to be looking at him. Joe\u2019s nose had stopped bleeding; the blood had dried on the boy\u2019s face, having been smeared across one cheek. The lower lip had split when Will had jabbed his fist into the handsome face. It was now swollen and the left eye had started to blacken. Will shook his head in disgust.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou look like hell, Joseph,\u201d he muttered, untying the rope from around Joe\u2019s ankles. He cut a section of the rope with his knife and after untying Joe\u2019s hands he retied them in front of the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will hauled Joe to his feet, clinging to the boy as if he were a rag doll, Will led Joe to the horse and placed him into the saddle and then climbed on behind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGuess we ride double, for now,\u201d the man growled. \u201cBut just as soon as you\u2019re able, you\u2019re going to be doing a lot of walking. And without your boots, that\u2019s not going to be very pleasurable,\u201d Will informed the dazed boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will kicked the horse\u2019s sides and within minutes the duo had disappeared into the thick forest, slowly making their way around fallen logs, boulders and the dense undergrowth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Ben and his sons broke through to the clearing, each yanked back on the reins and sat in stunned silence at the black and white pinto that had raised his head and looked their way. Ben cast anxious eyes around at both Adam and Hoss and quickly dismounted. He moved slowly so as not to spook the pinto.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy there fella,\u201d Ben murmured in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He grabbed for the reins. As soon as he had the horse secured, Adam and Hoss joined their father, inspecting Cochise for any signs that might give them a clue as to the whereabouts of his rider.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothin\u2019 on this side,\u201d Hoss said, his voice ringing with disappointment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing here either, Pa,\u201d Adam added. He brushed his hand down the front of the horse. \u201cHe\u2019s been running, look at his lather,\u201d he said, holding his dampened hand up for this father and Hoss to see.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked over his shoulder. \u201cCouldn\u2019t have been here long.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss began searching the ground for clues and quickly picked up the horse\u2019s tracks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe came in this way,\u201d he told his family as he started following the indentures made in the soft earth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s mount up and back track,\u201d Ben told Adam, passing Cochise\u2019s reins to his son. \u201cHoss, do you think you can follow those tracks through this forest, it\u2019s pretty dense.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir, I\u2019ll find\u2019em, don\u2019t ya worry none,\u201d Hoss assured his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss walked steadily, keeping a close eye on the tracks he was following. When they reached opened ground, he turned and mounted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis way,\u201d he said, taking the lead as he picked up the pace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was as anxious to find his missing brother as his father and Adam was. It had been nearly three days, and finding Joe\u2019s horse in the clearing had been the first piece of evidence that they had stumbled upon. The fact that the horse had been coated in sweat only served to increase their fear that something terrible must be wrong. Hoss feared for his brother\u2019s safety and for Joe\u2019s well being. He worried that the boy might be hurt, and unable to get to help. What concerned the big man the most was why Joe had left home without a word to any of them. He just could not help but wonder at his brother\u2019s motives.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will pulled his horse to a stop. He climbed from the saddle, gazing up at Joe who had slumped over the horse\u2019s neck, nearly unconscious. Untying the ropes that held Joe\u2019s hands to the pommel, Will dragged Joe\u2019s limp body to the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe suddenly came alive as he shoved his body into that of the man who held him. Taken by surprise, Will staggered backward, his hands automatically releasing their grip on Joe\u2019s body in a vain attempt to break his fall. The heavy man hit the ground with a thud, but it was the advantage that Joe needed. The boy turned and fled, making his way across the open ground. Joe ran as fast as his weary legs could carry him. Beneath his bare feet he could feel the hard ground ripping at his soles, the rocks and pebbles bruising his tender flesh as he raced for freedom. Twice he stumbled and nearly fell. Joe glanced behind him, seeing Will chasing after him. The look on the man\u2019s face warned Joe that he must hurry to avoid capture, for Joe knew that William Harding would show him no mercy should he be captured again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lungs burning, gasping for air, Joe raced on, always looking over his shoulders. He was quickly beginning to tire, and could easily see that his pursuer was rapidly gaining on him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI gotta run\u2026I gotta run,\u201d Joe repeated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was becoming light headed. He was forced to pause just long enough to catch his breath and fill his heaving lungs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got you now!\u201d screamed Will as he dove at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe spun around, just in time to see the man\u2019s body flying through the air at him. Joe bolted into a run, avoiding being knocked to the ground by the weight of the sailing body. Behind him, the terrified lad heard the enraged man screaming out his obscenities at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned from the rocks that lay just ahead. He darted passed several large boulders, ignoring the pain in his soles as the jagged rocks sliced his feet. Once he looked down and saw the trail of blood that followed him. When he looked around in front of him, he opened his mouth to scream, but his cry was drowned out as he plummeted downward from the ledge that had suddenly sprang up before him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe cried out as his body bounced against the hard rocks, finally coming to an abrupt stop on a ledge, mid-way down of the deep ravine. His senses dulled, his world swimming before him, Joe tried to rise, but screamed out as the burning pain cut through his ribcage. Unable to move, he looked to the top of the ledge, groaning when he saw the evil man standing on the rim, looking down at him. William\u2019s laughter drifted faintly down from above. He watched as William began descending the ledge, dreading what lay ahead for him, once the man reached his side. Joe closed his eyes against the sight, refusing to watch as the demented man carefully picked his way around the rock formations until he was within yards of where the boy lay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The unnerving sound of a man\u2019s scream forced open Joe\u2019s eyes. He was stunned to see William Harding\u2019s body roll head over foot passed him. With eyes wide with fear, Joe raised his head slightly, watching as the big man rolled for several yards beyond where he, himself lay. Will\u2019s body stopped its downward plunge only to land, bent and broken on the sharp rocks not more than a hundred yards below Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For several long minutes, Joe stared at the silent form, watching for any movements that might indicate whether Will was still alive or not. When he could no longer hold his head up, Joe gave in to the pain that cursed his body. Slowly his eyelids closed and everything around him went spiraling into total darkness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three pulled their horses to a stop. Ben and Hoss quickly dismounted to inspect the horse that stood alone. Adam waited anxiously while remaining on his mount. His dark eyes scanned the surrounding area in search of the horse\u2019s rider.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLookit here, Pa,\u201d Hoss said, pulling the cut strands of ropes free from the saddle horn. Looks like someone\u2019s been tied to the pommel,\u201d he said, handing the remannets to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dismounted, taking the ropes from Ben\u2019s hands, seeing for himself how the ropes had been cut. Ben stared at the ropes; dread filled his soul as he glanced around at the area where they stood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s been a scuffle\u2026and lookit over here,\u201d Hoss said, pointing to the ground. \u201cLooks like one of those someone\u2019s, lost his boots.\u201d Hoss squatted down to get a better look at the footprint.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d he hesitated before rising and turning to face Ben. \u201cThere\u2019s blood embedded in these here smaller footprints,\u201d Hoss explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat ain\u2019t all, Pa\u2026see how this little toe turns under just a bit?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see it\u2026\u201d Ben said, his heart sinking. \u201cIt\u2019s Little Joe\u2019s footprint,\u201d he stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben twisted his head all about, his eyes digging into the thickness of rocks, scanning each formation hungrily for his son. The hot sun beat down on their heads, sweat dotted Ben\u2019s brow and he brushed if off with the sleeve of his shirt. He cupped his hand around his mouth and yelled out his son\u2019s name.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d Ben shouted. He turned to Adam and Hoss. \u201cSpread out\u2026check the entire area, he\u2019s got be here somewhere,\u201d Ben ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d Ben called, moving cautiously toward the edge of the ravine, unaware that down below his youngest son lay in dire need of his comforting embrace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam moved off in the opposite direction, working his way to the rim as well. Hoss inched closer to the huge boulders where a short time before, William Harding, his father\u2019s supposedly trusted friend had charged Joe, causing both the boy and himself to plummet over the side of the ravine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! DOWN THERE!\u201d shouted Adam, pointing over the side of the cliff.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dashed back to his father\u2019s side and pointed out the lone figure of a man lying motionless across a decayed tree trunk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a man!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, get some rope, I\u2019m going down,\u201d ordered Ben. \u201cIt\u2019s possible he\u2019s still alive.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss made quick work of fixing the rope and soon had it placed securely around Ben\u2019s waist. Together, Adam and Hoss began lowering their father over the side of the ravine. Ben moved carefully downward toward the prone figure of the man until he stood over the body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Being as careful as he could, he turned the man enough that he could see William\u2019s face. Shocked, Ben gasped in disbelief at his friend. He glanced up at his two sons and called to them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIT\u2019S WILL HARDING!\u201d he shouted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss swapped surprised looks. \u201cI thought he went on to San Francisco?\u201d Hoss muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cApparently not. What I\u2019d like to know is how did he become mixed up with our brother?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHE\u201dS BARELY ALIVE!\u201d yelled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill\u2026Will, can you hear me?\u201d Ben questioned, holding the man\u2019s broken body in his arms. He knew that his friend was near death and that there was nothing he could do at this point to ease the man\u2019s suffering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will slowly forced his eyes opened. He could barely make out the face before him. His hand moved slightly, gripping Ben\u2019s arm. Ben watched as his friend struggled to form words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe\u2026boy\u2026\u201d he stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill, don\u2019t try to talk\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026Ben\u2026\u201d Will\u2019s back arched as the pain engulfed him. \u201cI never\u2026meant\u2026to kill\u2026him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben swallowed the knot that had formed in the back of his throat. He pulled the man closer so that he could make out the muffled words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill, my son, Joseph\u2026where is he?\u201d Ben urged as the panic began to rise to the surface. \u201cWhat have you done with my son?\u201d There was urgency in the frightened father\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLies\u2026all\u2026lies,\u201d muttered the dying man. William strained to focus his eyes on Ben\u2019s face. \u201cShe\u2026never\u2026loved\u2026me\u2026you\u2026always\u2026you,\u201d William struggled with his words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was beginning to feel sick as he leaned even closer. Will was fighting for every breath now and Ben knew that death laid just a heartbeat away. He was frantic to know where his youngest son was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill\u2026please,\u201d Ben said in a false calm. \u201cWhat have you done with\u2026Marie\u2019s baby boy? Where is he Will\u2026please, for Marie\u2026tell me what\u2019s become of Joseph,\u201d pleaded Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will\u2019s eyes had closed, his body was limp in Ben\u2019s arm, but the man opened his eyes just enough to see Ben\u2019s face. He raised his arm in the air, \u201cdead,\u201d he muttered in a dying voice. The arm, once so strong dropped beside his body as William Harding drew his last breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d screamed Ben at the top of his lungs. His friend was dead and he was no nearer to finding his missing son than he had been three days before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMY SON! MY SON\u2026WHERE\u2019S MY SON!\u201d Ben beseeched the heavens.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had Hoss hold the rope as he quickly descended the ravine. He slipped a time or two but did not allow the rolling pebbles and stones to hinder his downward movements. His father was beside himself with grief. The urgency in the pleading voice, alerted Adam to his father\u2019s present need, as he hurried to join Ben. Within minutes, Adam had Ben clutched in his strong arms and turned away from the grotesque sight of the man\u2019s broken body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d Adam said in a loud voice. \u201cGet a hold of yourself!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDead\u2026he said Joe was dead!\u201d Ben moaned. \u201cDear God\u2026no\u2026he can\u2019t be\u2026dead\u2026not Joe, not my baby!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s fingers dug deeply into his father\u2019s strong arms as he gave Ben a shake. \u201cYou don\u2019t know that for sure\u2026Pa\u2026listen to me\u2026the man was a liar\u2026a fraud\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took a deep breath to calm himself. He turned from his son for a fraction of a second to steady his trembling. When he turned again to Adam, his son could see the fire of hate that burned deeply in the chocolate colored eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe lies\u2026what lies, Adam? He just said that they were all lies, but what was he talking about? And how does Joseph fit into all of this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Pa\u2026but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA! ADAM! LOOK\u2026OVER THERE\u2026\u201d Hoss bellowed from the top of the ravine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both turned to look at Hoss and followed the direction that he was pointing. Ben shielded his eyes from the bright sun. His troubled eyes scanned the rocks for whatever it was that had caught his middle son\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam saw the slight movement first, and reacted by grabbing Ben\u2019s arm. He pointed his finger to a small ledge, about halfway up the side of the ravine and to the far left from where they stood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026look, its Joe!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Moving as one, Ben and Adam quickly scrambled up and across the rocks, being careful not to slip and fall, fearing the same fate as Ben\u2019s one time friend. Ben reached his son first, dropping to his knees and leaning over Joe, shielding the twisted body from the hot rays of sun that had already burned the battered flesh of Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, sweetheart\u2026\u201d Ben murmured in a tender voice full of concern. He glanced up at Adam, sensing the same fear in his oldest son that he, himself was feeling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam felt his brother\u2019s neck for a pulse. It took several agonizing moments, but Adam raised his head, giving his father an encouraging smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s alive,\u201d Adam said, forcing his words from the back of his throat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tenderly, Ben eased his hands beneath Joe\u2019s battered body and turned his son over, allowing the boy to rest in the cradle his of his father\u2019s arms. Ben gasped at the bruised flesh, the dried blood that had caked to Joe\u2019s cheeks, and the busted lip and the swelling around the eye that had turned black and blue.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear God,\u201d Ben muttered. He felt tears sting his eyes, but willed them away, least they be seen. \u201cJoseph\u2026son, your Pa\u2019s here now\u2026can you hear me boy?\u201d cooed Ben, brushing the tiny rock particles and dirt from the discolored flesh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet the canteen Adam, he needs water,\u201d Ben ordered, holding Joe carefully in his arms. He watched as Adam made his way back up the ravine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026I\u2019m here son,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe moved his head slightly, his eyes searching for his father\u2019s face. One hand extended upward, reaching out. Ben clasped the boy\u2019s hand in his own and squeezed it gently, assuring his son of his presence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2026made\u2026me\u2026go\u2026with\u2026him,\u201d Joe muttered in a strained voice. The hazel eyes clouded with tears as he looked into his father\u2019s dark eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry\u2026I\u2019m\u2026so\u2026sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tiny beads slipped from the corner of one eye and rolled down the side of the dirt-smeared face, leaving a narrow white path through the dust.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026don\u2019t cry son, don\u2019t try to talk. We can sort it all out later, once you\u2019re home,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam returned with the canteen and pulled the cork from the spout. Ben held it in his hand and gently pressed the opening to Joe\u2019s lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy son, just sip it,\u201d he said, glancing at Adam\u2019s worried face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe need to get him out of this ravine, Pa\u2026it\u2019s getting late,\u201d Adam informed his father. \u201cHoss is making a stretcher, we can tie Joe onto it and haul him out of here. It shouldn\u2019t be too hard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, thank God he landed on this ledge, if he\u2019d fallen any further\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pulled his neckerchief off and dampened it with the water and began cleaning the dried blood and dirt from Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Joe\u2026what are you trying to tell me?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHarding\u2026he\u2026fell\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know son\u2026we found him,\u201d Ben answered, returning to dab at the swollen lip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said\u2026he said\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes brimmed with tears as he clung to his father\u2019s arm. \u201cPa\u2026please\u2026hold me,\u201d sobbed Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben drew Joe closer, if possible, to his chest and held the sobbing boy. His hand gently caressed the dirty locks of hair. Ben leaned his head down, kissing the top of Joe\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026everything is going to be alright, I promise son\u2026please, don\u2019t cry,\u201d Ben muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned his head to look up at his father. \u201cYou\u2026don\u2019t understand\u2026he said\u2026you didn\u2019t care\u2026about me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben saw Joe swallow back the grief he was feeling and try to continue. \u201cHe\u2026said\u2026you didn\u2019t\u2026want me\u2026or\u2026or\u2026love me.\u201d A sob caught in the back of Joe\u2019s throat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben drew Joe to him, cradling the boy\u2019s head against his heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLies Joseph\u2026all lies, son.\u201d Ben gently rocked back and forth with his bundle. \u201cNone of it is true, Little Joe\u2026I love you son\u2026more than life itself,\u201d Ben said in a choked voice laden with emotion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He could only guess at the things that his so-called friend had told his son. Ben glanced down, seeing Joe looking up at him. He smiled and gently patted Joe\u2019s bruised cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we get you home, we\u2019ll get it all worked out, son. Right now, it looks like Hoss has the stretcher ready. You ready to go home?\u201d Ben asked, hoping to defray the fright he saw on Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir,\u201d Joe muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam helped Ben set the stretcher in place and then as carefully as they could, Adam and Ben picked Joe up, placing him securely onto the make shift stretcher. Joe cried out as the pain washed over him. He clenched his jaw tightly, trying to ward off more outbursts, but the movement and jarring was more than he could endure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAHHH!\u201d he cried and then fainted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben made quick work of tying the ropes that Hoss had sent down to them, around Joe\u2019s body. Once positive that there was no way his son could slip out of the stretcher, he turned to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s move before he wakes up. The less pain he feels, the better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking up, Adam motioned for Hoss to begin pulling up on the rope. Ben positioned himself on one side of the slow moving bundle, guiding it carefully along the rocks, while Adam did the same on the opposite side. Several times they were forced to stop. The painful whimpering from beneath the blanket that shielded Joe\u2019s face and eyes from the dust and dirt and the hot rays of the sun, were cause enough for the anxious father to pause until the pitiful sounds subsided.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go,\u201d Ben called up to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once again the stretcher scraped along the rocks, moving at a snail\u2019s pace. At one point, Ben and Adam had to lift the injured boy and the stretcher and carry it along with them. It took longer than Adam had first anticipated, but at last they reached the top. Hoss dropped the rope and grabbed the end of the wooden support and pulled Joe to the top, quickly placing the object flat on the ground. He pulled back the blanket, anxious to see his brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLordamighty!\u201d exclaimed Hoss as he stared in shock at the battered and bruised face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The gentle giant tenderly ran his beefy fingers along Joe\u2019s cheek, turning with worry etched into every line on his face, to look at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe boy\u2019s been through\u2026well, ya know what I mean.\u201d Hoss muttered, turning once more to the boy. \u201cHey punkin\u2026can ya hear me\u2026it\u2019s me\u2026ole Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes and tried to make a smile. \u201cHey\u2026ya big\u2026galoot. Ya sure\u2026are a sight\u2026for\u2026sore\u2026eyes,\u201d Joe said in a weakened voice as his eyes closed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss smiled at his father and Adam. \u201cLeast the kid ain\u2019t lost his sense of humor,\u201d he snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was able to smile for real this time. He patted his middle son\u2019s arm in affection.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEverything is going to be alright now. All we need is to get Joe home and have Doc Martin take a look at him. I\u2019m sure he has a couple of broken ribs,\u201d Ben said, glancing down at Joe and seeing that the boy had fixed his eyes on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you feeling Joe?\u201d his father asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss heehawed. \u201cSure ya are kid\u2026sure ya are. And ya look fine, too!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Adam joined in the light laughter. Even Joe made an attempt to laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026hurts,\u201d he grinned. \u201cDon\u2019t make\u2026me laugh,\u201d we begged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright boys, let\u2019s see what we can do about getting this little scamp home. Adam, if you\u2019re feeling up to it, why don\u2019t you head on into town and fetch the doctor out to the ranch. Hoss and I will fix a travois to carry Joe and we\u2019ll meet you back at the house. With any luck, we should be there about dark,\u201d ordered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing,\u201d Adam answered. He squatted down to speak with his brother. His face bore a similance of a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake it easy little buddy, and do me a favor, will you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head. \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced over his shoulder. Ben and Hoss had moved away slightly. Hoss was rolling up the ropes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNext time you have something on your mind\u2026come to me if Pa is busy. We don\u2019t mean to snub you Joe, but there are times\u2026and there will be more\u2026when we get so busy that we sometimes forget that you\u2019re still a kid, and need us. We don\u2019t mean too, honest buddy, but occasionally it happens, but it doesn\u2019t mean we\u2019ve stopped caring about you. That will never happen, ever\u2026understand?\u201d Adam said in all sincerity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes brimmed with unshed tears. His throat was thick with emotion and he could only respond by nodding his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood\u2026I\u2019m glad you understand, Joe. We\u2026love you\u2026all three of us, especially our father, and if anything had happened to you\u2026I mean, if you had been killed, our lives would have never been the same, without you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled down at his brother, glad that they had found the boy in time. He gently ran the back of his hand down the side of Joe\u2019s battered face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou rest easy Joe, I\u2019ll have the doctor waiting for you by the time you get home. And once you\u2019re better\u2026we\u2019ll go fishing\u2026just you and I, how about that?\u201d Adam promised.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPromise?\u201d Joe muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPromise, Pal.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood to feet, grinning down at the boy. Joe\u2019s eyes closed slowly. Adam moved to his horse and started to mount up. He turned to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be waiting for you at home. Be careful Pa, Joe\u2019s in more pain than what he\u2019s letting on,\u201d cautioned Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know son. Don\u2019t worry, I\u2019ll take care of him,\u201d Ben smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss set about making a travois from small saplings he chopped down while Ben built a fire and fixed them something to eat. For Joe, he made a broth out of the leftover fried chicken that Hop Sing had packed for them. Joe, feeling the pain that consumed his body, spent his time trying to muffle the moans that threatened to alert his worried father of his battered condition; not that Ben didn\u2019t already know, for he had been keeping a sharp eye on his young son. Several times he had gone to the boy\u2019s side and offered Joe small amounts of water. Ben had seen the signs before, dehydration was nothing to take lightly and Ben already suspected his son of being such.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe broth will be ready soon, Joe,\u201d Ben told his son. \u201cIt isn\u2019t as good as Hop Sing makes, but it\u2019ll suffice until we get home, and then Hop Sing can make you some of his miracle-cure soup,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Pa,\u201d Joe said weakly, \u201cI\u2019m so hungry\u2026I could eat a\u2026polecat.\u201d Joe grimaced when he smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed lightly. \u201cI don\u2019t think it will come down to that, Joseph. I\u2019ll be right back,\u201d said Ben as he started to move away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned around and went back, sitting on the rock next to where Joe lay, his body still strapped to the stretcher to prevent any movement that might cause further injury.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry\u2026I shouldn\u2019t have let that man\u2026talk me into something\u2026so stupid,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A tiny frown formed on his face. He turned his head slightly, ashamed to look into his father\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took a deep breath; he still did not have a clue as to what had led up to where they were at present. He wanted to know exactly what had happened and why, but knew that now was not the time to confront his injured son about the circumstances.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, look at me\u2026please,\u201d asked Ben. He waited until Joe turned to look at him. \u201cI don\u2019t understand any of this. All I know is what Adam and Hoss told me when I got home. They sent me a wire explaining that you were missing. I came straight home. When I got here, they told me about the father and son dinner and about you winning an award. Joe\u2026I\u2019m sorry son, if I had known, I\u2019d never have gone to Carson City, but I didn\u2019t. As to why I wasn\u2019t informed, I suppose only you can explain that to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pressed his fingers gently against Joe\u2019s lips to stop him from trying to speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot now\u2026later, after we are home, and you are feeling better, then you can tell me. As for right now, Joe, I want you to understand, if I\u2019m to blame for any of this\u2026I\u2019m sorry, son. I never meant to chide you\u2026you and what you do is more important to me than anything else, I want you to remember that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood to his feet. \u201cAnd about that award\u2026I\u2019m proud of you Joe\u2026I\u2019d have given anything to have been at that dinner with you and seen you accept the honor.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s smile was tight, as was his throat. He moved back to the fire to dip some of the chicken and broth into a tin plate and returned to his son\u2019s side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you ready to eat?\u201d asked Ben, the previous conversation laid to rest, for the present.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was ready two days ago,\u201d Joe said, forcing a smile for his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He watched as Ben made himself comfortable on the rock. How could he have been so stupid as to think this man he called Pa, had ever stopped loving him? Tears burned his eyes. One lone, tiny droplet of water seeped from the corner of his swollen eyes, but Ben, spooning the broth from the plate, noticed nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough for now, Joe. Your stomach has shrunk so, that eating too much right away, might make you sick, and I don\u2019t want you giving up what you\u2019ve already eaten. We\u2019re about ready to move out, but we\u2019ll stop again in a few hours and I\u2019ll let you have some more,\u201d Ben explained as he dumped the remainder of broth out of Joe\u2019s plate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was true to his word. He allowed several short breaks during the trek home. Joe was tossing his head from side to side, crying out from the constant discomfort caused by the movement of the travois being dragged along the ground. Ben could only watch as his son suffered, offering words of encouragement and small amounts of food and water to sustain the boy until Joe could be cared for properly, by the family doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben rearranged the blankets around his son\u2019s body. Along with the setting sun, came the cool night breeze and once Ben had seen Joe shivering, he had stopped to add another blanket. He tenderly brushed his lips against Joe\u2019s forehead and whispered into his ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHang on sweetheart, we\u2019re almost home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sight of Joe\u2019s twisted and bruised features tore at Ben\u2019s heart. He would have gone to hell and back for the boy, if only to prevent his suffering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A short time after nightfall, Ben, Hoss and the unconscious Joe, entered the yard of their home. The front door burst opened and Adam rushed forward to greet his family. Paul Martin and Hop Sing followed quickly behind the eldest Cartwright son in their own attempt to see the boy for themselves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNumber three son, no look so good,\u201d Hop Sing babbled. \u201cBring into house, Hop Sing have mighty fine broth stewing on stove,\u201d the gentle little servant announced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul was already bent over Joe, making a visual examination. He glanced up at Ben and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGuess he must have forgotten I am the doctor,\u201d Paul said in a kindly manner, glancing around at Hop Sing who was already heading back into the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get this boy upstairs and into his own bed, and then I can take a better look at him. Be careful, he\u2019s in quite a lot of pain,\u201d advised Paul, stepping back so that Adam and Hoss could carry the stretcher into the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Minutes later, four men, Adam, Ben, Hoss and Doc Martin, were easing Joe off the stretcher and onto the soft bed. Joe cried out, his eyes opened briefly, not fully seeing those that gathered around his bed caring for his needs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul moved to the head of the bed, pressed the back of his hand to Joe\u2019s forehead and sighed in relief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo fever,\u201d he muttered, moving on to check Joe\u2019s pulse and heartbeat. When he straightened his back he began dishing out instructions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, I will need hot water for both tending to and for bathing. Bring plenty of towels, and while you\u2019re heating water, how about something for the boy to eat when he wakes up. Lord can plainly see he\u2019s practically starving, look at his ribcage,\u201d sighed the physician as he opened Joe\u2019s dirty shirt and pointed to the protruding bones.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy enough to see which ribs are broken,\u201d he muttered to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you and Hoss go to bed.\u201d Paul glanced up at the brothers. \u201cYou are both about ready to drop\u2026and I don\u2019t need two more patients. Now scat, we\u2019ll call you if we need you\u2026or if there is any change that you need to know about.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul turned to Ben, seeing the worry and concern in the dark eyes as the father stayed focus on the son\u2019s face. He reached out, placing his hand on Ben\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNormally I\u2019d tell you the same thing, go to bed, but I can see I\u2019d be wasting my breath. You can help me get these dirty clothes off the boy and then we can bathe him and make him more comfortable,\u201d Paul explained with a compassionate look. \u201cAfter that, I\u2019ll make a thorough examination and when I finish, I will then order you to bed as well\u2026agreed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled and shook his head. \u201cPaul, you know me all too well. But you\u2019ve forgotten one important thing\u2026I have no intentions of leaving my son, tonight, today\u2026whatever time it might be when you are finished. Understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul laughed lightly, \u201cI understand, now, let\u2019s get these rags off the lad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Doc Martin frowned when he looked at the bottom of Joe\u2019s feet. The doctor glanced up at the boy\u2019s father who was standing over him and saw the same look of anger that he felt, reflecting back at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s going to be awhile Ben, before this boy is going to be able to place his feet on the floor, and longer than that before he\u2019ll wear his boots again,\u201d Paul Martin explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is all my fault!\u201d Ben voiced aloud his thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul stood to his feet, shaking his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, you had no way of knowing that your old friend was anything other than what you believed him to be. Don\u2019t blame yourself\u2026these feet will heal, I promise,\u201d Paul assured himself as he went to work cleaning the cuts that had slashed the bottoms of Joe\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThese stone bruises are going to be painful, I\u2019m afraid,\u201d the doctor informed Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An hour later, Joe was resting, with the help of the laudanum that Paul slipped in between spoonfuls of the miracle-cure broth that Hop Sing had brought up for Joe. He\u2019d been stripped, bathed, his ribs bandaged tightly, dressed in a clean nightshirt and settled comfortably into bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll ride out in the morning, Ben, to check on him. I think he\u2019ll sleep most of the night, but if he should wake up, feed him some more broth and give him another dose of laudanum. I\u2019ve left it with Hop Sing. I want him to remain as quite as possible for the next couple of days, just to give his body a head start in the healing process.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben walked to the door with the doctor and handed Paul his hat and coat. \u201cThanks Paul, for coming out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo need for thanks, Ben. I was happy to be of assistance, you know that. I\u2019ll tell you this Ben,\u201d said Paul, slipping his arms into the coat that Ben held open for him. \u201cThat youngest bear cup of yours must have had the good Lord watching out for him. Considering the fall he had, and the beating, and the fact that he was being starved to death, he\u2019s one lucky boy, Ben. Most kids would have given up by now, but not Little Joe\u2026but then, he\u2019s not exactly like \u2018most kids,\u2019\u201d smiled the doctor as he put on his hat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTry to get some rest Papa, you look beat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will Paul\u2026and thanks again,\u201d Ben said closing the door behind the good doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As soon as the doctor had gone, Ben returned to his son\u2019s bedside. Joe was deep into a drug-induced sleep and appeared to be resting comfortably, much to Ben\u2019s relief. Ben pulled up a chair as close as he could to the bedside and settled himself in for the night. He had promised his son that he would remain close by and the loving father had every intentions of keeping that promise. A sense that he had somehow failed his younger son haunted Ben\u2019s thoughts as he watched Joe sleep. He felt a heaviness come over him and silently, Ben vowed to somehow make it up to the boy. Sighing deeply, Ben leaned his head against the back of the chair, and soon was sound asleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes opened slowly. He stared at the ceiling for a moment, blinking, trying to remember what had happened to him and where he was. To his left, he could the soft sounds of someone snoring, and for just a second, he feared that William Harding had returned to induce more suffering. Joe glanced sideways surprised to see his father, slumped over in the chair, fast asleep. Joe smiled; relief flooded his heart and soul as he reached out his hand and tried to touch his father. He wanted to be sure he wasn\u2019t dreaming and that in fact, he was safe and in his own bed with Ben actually there keeping watch over him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d he repeated when Ben failed to respond.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyelids fluttered and then his eyes popped opened. He looked directly at Joe, seeing the smile that had always brought such joy to his heart. Instantly, Ben smiled and moved to sit on the edge of the bed. His hand caressed the side of Joe\u2019s battered face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, sleepy head,\u201d Ben said with a wide smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho ya calling sleepy head?\u201d Joe said with a giggle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed, nodding his head. \u201cI suppose I did nod off. How are you feeling son? Are you hurting any where, cause if you are, the doc\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, Pa\u2026I ache some, but not to badly,\u201d Joe said, his smile fading. He lowered his head slightly, suddenly unable to look his father in the eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gently raised the boy\u2019s chin, watching the unhappy expression that had replaced the smile from moments ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, son?\u201d Ben said with compassion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa\u2026for everything\u2026for Mr. Harding\u2019s death\u2026for leaving with him\u2026for being angry at you, for no reason,\u201d Joe said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His eyes looked deeply into his father\u2019s and saw only the love he had felt he\u2019d been denied. Joe sniffed his nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI knew you were busy, I guess I was being selfish, wanting all your attention.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben saw his son swallow and watched as the frown on Joe\u2019s face deepened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I\u2019m the one who should be telling you that I\u2019m sorry. I suppose I got so wrapped up in everything, the new cattle that were brought in, William\u2019s visit, and the trial over in Carson City\u2026that I pushed you aside. You seemed busy with your own matters, or so I thought, and I ignored the fact that you needed me. I should have been paying more attention to the needs of my family instead of my own concerns.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave Joe a gently smile. \u201cI guess we were both wrong, wouldn\u2019t you agree?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head as he brushed his sleeve over his face to dry the dampness that threatened to fall from his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI never should have listened to him, let alone go off with him.\u201d Joe looked up, anger, hurt and remorse all shone in his expressive eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said it was good plan\u2026just to make you worry about me, so that you\u2019d pay more attention to me. Pa\u2026it was so stupid, I can\u2019t believe that I let myself be talked into something so\u2026so\u2026\u201d Joe paused and brushed at his eyes a second time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said things about you\u2026and about my mother. Mr. Harding hated you Pa; did you know that? And he was using me\u2026to hurt you, for taking Mama away from him. He blamed you for his own failure and he thought by causing us\u2026me and you\u2026to\u2026to\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe could not go on. His throat became thick with emotion and when his father gently pulled him into his arms, Joe\u2019s reserve shattered as he slipped his own arms about his father and wept.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026it\u2019s over now, son, it\u2019s over,\u201d murmured Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry\u2026so sorry, Pa. I can\u2019t believe that I was so childish to think that you had ever stopped caring about me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned his face into his father\u2019s chest and clung tightly, listening to the sound of his father\u2019s heartbeat beneath his ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, we both learned something from his. I learned that nothing is more important to me than my sons. That you, Joe\u2026you\u2026are my very heartbeat and that without you, life would not be worth living. And I\u2019ve learned that old friends are not always what they seem.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pulled back and looked into the chocolate eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019ve learned that no matter how busy you are, how much time of day you give, or don\u2019t give, you still love me\u2026and that nothing, not man or deed, can ever come between us,\u201d Joe said in a low voice. He returned the smile his father was giving to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI learned something else, too,\u201d Joe added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026and what might that be, young man,\u201d Ben grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI learned to appreciate good cooking and to appreciate\u2026my family,\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben opened his mouth to speak, but Joe wasn\u2019t quite finished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019ve learned that with a little effort, I\u2019m pretty good in arithmetic\u2026ya should of seen my award plaque, Pa\u2026it was pretty neat!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben let his laughter roll freely and the happy sound filled the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you mean this?\u201d Adam said from the doorway where he stood with Hoss. In his hand he held up the plaque so that Joe and his father could see it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Jones just stopped by and asked that I give it to you. She said to tell you congratulations on all the hard work you did earning this, and she wanted you to know that she\u2019s very proud of you,\u201d smiled Adam as he placed the award down in Joe\u2019s lap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe slowly picked up the award and held it in his hand, reading the wording. When he finished, he lowered it and looked up at his father and then at Adam and Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I had an award for each of you,\u201d he said softly. \u201cAll three of you deserve something special for putting up with me, especially you Pa,\u201d Joe said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Joseph\u2026I have my award, right here,\u201d Ben responded, taking Joe into his arms and holding his tightly. \u201cGod must have surely been smiling down on me the night you were born.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLaughing would be more like it,\u201d Hoss said with a giggle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoubled over with laughter, in fact, He was probably thinking, here you go Benjamin, here\u2019s something to keep you on your toes\u2026a tiny bundle packed full of energy and trouble that is guaranteed to turn your hair white!\u201d snickered Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026that ain\u2019t funny!\u201d Joe called with a forlorn look on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure it is, Short Shanks, lookit Pa, even he\u2019s laughin\u2019!\u201d taunted Hoss, with a wide grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d Joe said, giving his father one of his famous sad puppy-dog looks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright you two\u2026I think your brother has had about all the funning he needs for one day,\u201d Ben warned his older two sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss came closer to the bed and smiled down at their brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026how about if I hang that plaque of yours on the wall over here so it can be seen?\u201d Adam asked, reaching for the award.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe clung to the plaque and shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026\u201d he turned to his father. \u201cHere Pa\u2026it\u2019s for you\u2026you can hang it in your room. I earned it for you anyways\u2026so you would be proud of me,\u201d smiled Joe, offering the award to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took the award from Joe\u2019s hand and looked down at it. When he raised his head, he smiled slightly at his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Joe, but I think you deserve to hang this in your room. I don\u2019t need an award, or plaque, or any such thing to remind me how proud I am of you. All I have to do is to look at you, and I\u2019m reminded daily of the love, the joy and the happiness that you have brought into this house and into my heart.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben handed the plaque back to Joe and surprised him by leaning over and placing a kiss on the boy\u2019s brow. Joe\u2019s arms slipped about his father\u2019s neck, assured that his father\u2019s love would never again be questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss dabbed at his eyes, Adam, arms folded across his chest, smiled at the scene, confidant that things had returned to a sense of normality. For a brief instance, a thought of what normal meant, flashed through Adam\u2019s mind. Ordinary\u2026that\u2019s the word\u2026just another ordinary day in the life of his little brother, Joe Cartwright\u2026that\u2019s what this was all about, laughed Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

January 2004<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0 Feeling rejected by his family, Joe joins forces with an old friend of his father’s to earn him the attention he feels is being denied.\u00a0 When things turn out different from expected, Joe suddenly regrets his decision and now feels as if he has betrayed, not only his father but his brothers as well.\u00a0 Will his father find him in time, and will Ben forgive his impetuous son?<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 G\u00a0 (23,800 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":0,"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":[23,1008],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12312","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-drama","category-family","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2284,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":2053,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2053","url_meta":{"origin":12312,"position":0},"title":"Natural Ability (by JoanS)","author":"JoanS","date":"September 4, 2009","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Traces the progress of Joe's natural affinity with horses Rated: K (6,700 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\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":1337,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1337","url_meta":{"origin":12312,"position":1},"title":"Good Over Evil (by KateP)","author":"KateP","date":"May 27, 2001","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe's Friend is Murdered Rated: K+ (11,335 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\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":6366,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6366","url_meta":{"origin":12312,"position":2},"title":"The Art of Parenting: Lesson One (by the Tahoe Ladies)","author":"Tahoe Ladies","date":"November 4, 2001","format":false,"excerpt":"This is the first part of The Art of Parenting Trilogy. Rated K \u00a0Word Count:\u00a0 1700 The Art of Parenting Trilogy, links to all stories of this series included.","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\/Enter_Mark_Twain3.jpg?fit=802%2C654&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Enter_Mark_Twain3.jpg?fit=802%2C654&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Enter_Mark_Twain3.jpg?fit=802%2C654&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Enter_Mark_Twain3.jpg?fit=802%2C654&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 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