{"id":13277,"date":"2016-09-05T03:56:29","date_gmt":"2016-09-05T07:56:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13277"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:41:27","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:41:27","slug":"a-time-to-decide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13277","title":{"rendered":"A Time to Decide (by JulieS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong> Ben is asked to run for mayor of Virginia City.\u00a0 However, he finds out that it may not be as straightforward as it seems.\u00a0 (15th<\/sup> story in the series)<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/strong> PG (7658 words)<\/p>\n

The Way Things Are Series<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Way Things Are<\/a>
\nHistory has a Habit<\/a>
\nWhen you Least Expect It<\/a>
\nThere\u2019s Always Something<\/a>
\nThe Choices we Make<\/a>
\nLooks Can be Deceiving<\/a>
\nOne Thing or Another<\/a>
\nJust One of Those Days<\/a>
\nNothing is What it Seems<\/a>
\nYou Can\u2019t Keep an Old Lawman Down<\/a>
\nTimes Like These<\/a>
\nThe Nature of Life
\n<\/a>Unexpected Changes
\n<\/a>Out on a Limb
\n<\/a>A Time to Decide
\n<\/a>The Company We Keep<\/a>
\nWhen Opportunity Knocks<\/a>
\nA Moment in Time<\/a>
\nTo Live in Society<\/a><\/p>\n

A Time to Decide<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cYou just got to do it!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright raised his hand in protest.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t too sure that he wanted to do this.\u00a0 \u201cRoy, couldn\u2019t Jim Forrester do it?\u00a0 He\u2019s a good man.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he won\u2019t do.\u201d\u00a0 Roy Coffee walked over to his friend and placed his hand on the man\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re the only man that has a chance of beating Arnold Bocklin.\u00a0 You just got to run for mayor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRoy\u2019s right, Ben.\u00a0 We don\u2019t want Bocklin running this town.\u00a0 He\u2019s a friend of Parkinson\u2019s.\u00a0 Even though he says he knew nothing of what was going, there\u2019s no way to tell how deeply involved he really is.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know that Paul.\u00a0 I read all about it in the Enterprise.\u201d\u00a0 Ben ran his hand through his hair in frustration.\u00a0 \u201cWhat about the Ponderosa?\u00a0 I just can\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you can.\u00a0 Those boys of yours can run the ranch.\u00a0\u00a0 You taught them well.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, the Doc has a point.\u00a0 Those boys of yours are perfectly capable of running the ranch.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Roy watched the conflicting emotions shoot across Ben\u2019s face.\u00a0 Joe and Hoss could handle things on the ranch with both hands tied behind their backs.\u00a0 As for Adam, that man had problems of his own to sort out, not mention that he was still carrying on with whatever it was that he was up to.\u00a0 In the months, since Ben had told Roy that Adam\u2019s activities were perfectly legal, he still hadn\u2019t shaken off the curiosity that had gripped him.\u00a0 He had continued to watch Adam\u2019s comings and goings.\u00a0 It was only a matter of time until he worked out what Adam was up to.<\/p>\n

As he shifted his gaze between his two friends, Ben felt the weight of the world upon his shoulders.\u00a0 The expectant looks on their faces were playing havoc with his common sense, which was telling him to say no.\u00a0 When he had decided to drop in and visit Roy on his way home, he had only expected a cup of coffee, some conversation and maybe a game of chess.\u00a0 The last thing he had anticipated was to be asked to run for the office of mayor.<\/p>\n

When Dan Parkinson had become mayor a little over a year ago, upon the sudden death of Titus Simpson, most of the town had thought that they had the right man for the job.\u00a0 He, himself had been among those who thought Parkinson would do an exemplary job.\u00a0 How wrong they were.\u00a0 Parkinson had nearly bankrupted the town.\u00a0 The man was now languishing in jail, awaiting his trial.\u00a0 Ben sighed. \u00a0Here he was standing in front of two of Virginia\u2019s City leading citizens, who probably represented a larger group of townspeople that had come to the conclusion that Ben Cartwright was the man for the job.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s mind began racing through the alternatives and he soon realised that there weren\u2019t many.\u00a0 Forrester was a good man, but only in his late thirties.\u00a0 The people wanted someone who was older and more experienced \u2013 someone they could trust.\u00a0 Paul and Roy had said as much when they were presenting their argument to him.\u00a0 He just wished that he had more time to think about it.<\/p>\n

After a few minutes, Roy tentatively looked at Paul and then back to Ben.\u00a0 They needed an answer straight away in order to make it in time to register Ben as a candidate.\u00a0 Ben had left on a round-up a few days after Hoss\u2019 wedding and it was while he was gone that this fiasco had happened.\u00a0 When Clem had found out what was going on, he moved quickly and managed to apprehend Parkinson, before the man skipped out of town.\u00a0 The scandal had cast a shadow on the entire town council.\u00a0 In order to bring some stability, it was decided to wipe the slate clean and called a snap election.\u00a0 Today was the first and only chance they had to convince Ben to run.<\/p>\n

Since he was a Cartwright, the expectation of him helping them out was high.\u00a0 Ben remembered all the times he and his family had come to rescue the town and its citizens.\u00a0 He knew that a lot of people trusted him and knew they could count on the Cartwrights when times got tough.\u00a0 Now was one of those times.\u00a0 When he had heard what had happened, Ben had felt disgusted.\u00a0 After Simpson had died, he had wholeheartedly supported the then Town Clerk Parkinson for the higher position.\u00a0 He could even remember some people saying that Parkinson had gotten the mayor\u2019s job on Ben Cartwright\u2019s say so.\u00a0 It was then he knew it was his responsibility to fix things.\u00a0 He took a deep breath and reluctantly nodded.<\/p>\n

Upon seeing his friend nod, Paul smiled.\u00a0 \u201cThanks, Ben.\u00a0 You don\u2019t know how much it\u2019s appreciated.\u00a0 I know that you\u2019ll be a fine mayor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYep.\u00a0 I agree with the Doc, Ben you\u2019re the best man for the job.\u201d<\/p>\n

Roy and Paul made their way over to Ben to offer their congratulations and thanks.\u00a0 Ben half-smiled.\u00a0 Guess there was no going back now.\u00a0 He would do his best to help clean things up and make Virginia City the place it should be.\u00a0 All that was left to do now was to go to the town clerk\u2019s office, fill out the necessary paperwork and then go home.\u00a0 At least he had a couple of hours to work out how he would explain things to his family and that could turn out to be a lot harder than making the decision he had just made.<\/p>\n

\n

Adam folded his arms and stared at the floor.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t exactly pleased at the thought of having his father run for mayor of Virginia City.\u00a0 It would make life extremely difficult.\u00a0 If his father won, then the family would be under close scrutiny by practically everybody.\u00a0 The chance of people finding out that there was more to some of the Cartwrights than met the eye would be high.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t so sure if wanted to risk it.\u00a0 There had to be some other way.<\/p>\n

He lifted his head and met the gaze of his father.\u00a0 \u201cYou sure you really want to do this Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes Adam, I\u2019m sure.\u00a0 The ride home gave me a chance to think about it.\u00a0 The town needs me.\u00a0 You boys are perfectly capable of taking care of things here.\u201d\u00a0 Ben chuckled a little.\u00a0 \u201cThere\u2019s no guarantee that I\u2019ll win.\u00a0 Plenty of men have been nominated.\u00a0 Maybe one of them will prove to be worthy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat may be so but you have to admit that your chances of winning are very strong.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben smiled.\u00a0 \u201cYes, I know.\u201d\u00a0 He walked over to Adam, who was standing near the fireplace.\u00a0 \u201cI also know that you\u2019ll have to make a great sacrifice.\u00a0 This will put your job as a Secret Service agent in jeopardy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah I know but I think if we are careful, I can still manage to do my job.\u00a0 You may have to answer some questions about my activities and it may not be easy.\u00a0 A lot of people will be interested in destroying yours and the family\u2019s reputation.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s true.\u201d\u00a0 Ben glanced upstairs.\u00a0 He knew what Adam was really worried about.\u00a0 His son had years of experience with the Secret Service and would no doubt be discrete.\u00a0 It was Tom that was causing Adam great concern.\u00a0 The talk had been slowing dying down but now that he had entered the mayoral race, someone may decide to make something more of it.\u00a0 He placed his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder and smiled sympathetically.\u00a0 \u201cIt will be alright.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam turned, as he placed his hand on top of his father\u2019s.\u00a0 \u201cThanks, Pa.\u00a0 If anybody tries to bring my son into this, I\u2019ll take care of it \u2013 privately.\u201d<\/p>\n

A sudden noise from the top of the stairs broke alerted them to the fact that Joe was making his way back down.\u00a0 They both looked up to see Joe carrying a pile of papers.\u00a0 Upon seeing his father\u2019s and brother\u2019s questioning looks, he grinned.\u00a0 \u201cBoy am I glad I kept these.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe made his way over to the table in front of the fireplace and put the paper down on it.\u00a0 Adam picked up one of the sheets and quickly perused it.\u00a0 \u201cWhat may I ask is this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s one of the speeches I wrote for Phineas Burke.\u201d<\/p>\n

A look of alarm appeared on Ben\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cOh no!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook Pa you won\u2019t regret it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got the experience.\u00a0 I\u2019ve learnt a lot since then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe answer is still no.\u201d<\/p>\n

Confusion swept over Adam.\u00a0 \u201cMay I ask what all of this is about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLast mayoral election, I was the campaign manager for Phineas Burke.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd your brother was the campaign manager for Titus Simpson.\u201d\u00a0 Ben turned to Adam.\u00a0 \u201cYou can\u2019t imagine what those two got up to do during the campaign.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I think I can,\u201d\u00a0 Adam said in a tone that bespoke years of knowledge and experience.<\/p>\n

Joe chose to ignore Adam\u2019s comment.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t as bad as his father was making it out to be.\u00a0 \u201cI ran a tight ship and don\u2019t forget Phineas got half the vote.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Simpson got the other half.\u00a0 It was up to me to decide.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam tilted his head to the left.\u00a0 \u201cYou decided?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah, Pa decided alright.\u201d\u00a0 Joe knowingly smiled at his father.\u00a0 \u201cWhy don\u2019t you tell Adam how you decided?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sighed and reluctantly spoke.\u00a0 \u201cI flipped a coin.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA coin!\u201d\u00a0 Adam shook his head in disbelief.\u00a0 \u201cTitus Simpson became mayor on a flip of a coin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026yes.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t decide.\u00a0 Each man was just as good as the other.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad I wasn\u2019t around for that.\u201d\u00a0 Adam stroked his chin for a moment.\u00a0 \u201cSo Joe, you think you\u2019re up to the challenge of making our father, mayor of Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah I am.\u00a0 Like I said I\u2019ve learnt a lot since the last election.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam placed his arm around his father\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cYou know Pa I think you should give him a chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m still not sure about this.\u201d\u00a0 Ben briefly closed his eyes.\u00a0 When he opened them again he placed both of his hands on Joe\u2019s shoulders and stared intensely at his son\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cJoe, promise to check with me first before you do anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t do a thing unless I get your say so.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright then.\u00a0 I just hope I don\u2019t live to regret it.\u201d<\/p>\n

A broad grin appeared on Joe\u2019s face.\u00a0 Upon hearing that his father was running for mayor, he knew he just had to jump at the opportunity.\u00a0 It was what he had been looking for.\u00a0 He stepped over to his father and shook his hand, heartily.\u00a0 \u201cI promise you won\u2019t regret this.\u201d\u00a0 He let go of his father\u2019s hand and picked up the papers from the table.\u00a0 \u201cIf you\u2019ll excuse me, I have work to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two men watched in amazement as Joe bounded up the stairs.\u00a0 Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cYou know he looks like a kid whose had all his birthdays come at once.\u00a0 Who would have thought that being your campaign manager would get him this excited.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHmm.\u00a0 If I didn\u2019t know any better I would swear that he is up to something.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we should give him the benefit of the doubt.\u00a0 After all, it\u2019s been ages since he was involved in any schemes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben stared at Adam questionably.\u00a0 \u201cWhat are you trying to say?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook he\u2019s nearly 29.\u00a0 Maybe he\u2019s finally grown up.\u00a0 Sure, he still gets excited at the prospect of doing something he likes but don\u2019t we all?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI agree.\u00a0 He has grown up over the last few years, but part of me still thinks that once Joe gets some hair-brained notion into his head anything is liable to happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam chuckled.\u00a0 \u201cYou know, I feel the same way.\u00a0 It\u2019ll be interesting to see what happens.\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

\u201cYoohoo!\u00a0 Benjamin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben inwardly cringed as he heard the voice again.\u00a0 The owner of it was getting nearer and at the present moment there was no way out.\u00a0 Abruptly ending the conversation he was in the middle of, would only arouse suspicions, especially since he had just made a speech to some of the town\u2019s most prominent citizens.\u00a0 There was no real place he could run and hide in the Social Hall.\u00a0 He simply had no choice but to stay and see what she wanted.<\/p>\n

When the lady in question approached the group, each man dutifully tipped his hat to acknowledge her and the other woman who was with her.\u00a0 After exchanging some pleasantries, the woman turned to Ben.\u00a0 \u201cIf these gentlemen don\u2019t mind, we would like to have a word with you.\u201d\u00a0 She acknowledged the other woman who was with her.<\/p>\n

The other men in the group excused themselves and Ben watched dismally for a moment their retreating backs before to turning to the two women.\u00a0 \u201cMrs Hawkins.\u00a0 Mrs Whitaker.\u201d<\/p>\n

Clementine Hawkins smiled graciously at the man opposite her.\u00a0 He was as handsome as ever.\u00a0 \u201cBenjamin, as president of the Virginia City Widows\u2019 League, I would be honoured if you and your sons could attend a box social we are holding this Saturday night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis Saturday night?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know it\u2019s rather short notice, ducky.\u201d\u00a0 Clementine placed her gloved hand, lightly on Ben\u2019s forearm.\u00a0 \u201cA lot of ladies have already committed themselves to providing the hampers for auction and it would be a great disappointment if the town\u2019s most eligible bachelors didn\u2019t show up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Leslie Whitaker nodded in agreement.\u00a0 \u201cYes, Mr Cartwright do come.\u00a0 The social is in aid of the orphans\u2019 charity and might I say it wouldn\u2019t do your campaign any harm either.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben chuckled.\u00a0 \u201cNo, it wouldn\u2019t.\u201d\u00a0 He smiled at the two women.\u00a0 \u201cAlright, I\u2019ll come.\u00a0 Anything to help out a good cause.\u00a0 I can\u2019t speak for my sons, though.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I\u2019m sure you\u2019ll convince them, Benjamin, dear.\u201d\u00a0 Clementine gathered her thoughts for a moment.\u00a0 It was always disconcerting how he could unsettle her.<\/p>\n

\u201cBesides Mr Cartwright, it wouldn\u2019t look good if your sons were absent.\u00a0 Some people value family far more than anything else.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a point, Mrs Whitaker.\u00a0 It wouldn\u2019t look good.\u201d\u00a0 Ben knew that Joe would think it to be a golden opportunity.\u00a0 However, convincing Adam would be another thing entirely.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry.\u201d\u00a0 He quickly averted his attention to the two ladies.\u00a0 Clementine\u2019s eyebrow was raised in what seemed a questioning look.\u00a0 As for Leslie, he could swear that he could see a twinkle in her eye.\u00a0 Ben cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cI will endeavour to do my best to make sure that both Adam and Joe attend the social.\u00a0 If that is all, I do have other people I need to see before I leave here tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, that\u2019s all for now, ducky.\u201d\u00a0 Clementine gave Ben a saucy wink.<\/p>\n

Upon seeing the wink, Ben felt his throat constrict a little.\u00a0 He hastily said goodbye to the two women and made his way, as fast as he could to the opposite side of the hall.<\/p>\n

\n

Joe rubbed his hands in delight.\u00a0 It was perfect.\u00a0 \u201cThis is just what we needed.\u00a0 It\u2019ll show you as a caring family man and a supporter of worthy charities.\u00a0 I don\u2019t know why I didn\u2019t think of it first.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know why either,\u201d Adam said in a sarcastic tone, that caused Joe to mock him silently.<\/p>\n

\u201cI knew I could count on you, Joe.\u00a0 How about it, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam took a slow, deep breath.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t feel the need to go to a box social.\u00a0 Besides, I have a son to care of.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing will look after him while we\u2019re out.\u00a0 And before you mention any other excuses, I have to warn you that I took most things into consideration and I have yet to find a plausible one that you could come up with.\u201d\u00a0 Ben took another sip of his coffee.\u00a0 \u201cNow, what\u2019s the real reason why you don\u2019t want to go?\u201d<\/p>\n

A low chuckle escaped from Adam.\u00a0 His father was straight to the point.\u00a0 \u201cYou both know how these things operate.\u00a0 I just don\u2019t feel the inclination to bid on the hamper of some woman I hardly know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow whose fault is that?\u201d\u00a0 Joe smirked.\u00a0 \u201cHeck, even at Hoss\u2019 wedding you didn\u2019t show any inclination towards any of the women.\u00a0 I bet I could find at least three women who would be interested in getting to know you better.\u00a0 You\u2019re just not trying hard enough, older brother.\u00a0 I\u2019m more than happy to give you some advice.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI have no doubt you would.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Adam, there must be one woman out there you\u2019re even a little attracted to?\u201d\u00a0 Joe wracked his brain for a moment.\u00a0 \u201cCome to think of it the only woman who has gotten any reaction out of you lately is Leslie Whitaker.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t even think about it, little brother,\u201d\u00a0 Adam said in a slow, even tone.<\/p>\n

Joe smirked.\u00a0 Leslie Whitaker was definitely a sore spot where his brother was concerned.\u00a0 He\u2019d give anything to know what had happened between the two of them.\u00a0 \u201cI won\u2019t go there but I bet you have.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sensing it was time to interrupt, did so.\u00a0 \u201cLook, Adam, why not come for a couple of hours and make a few low bids.\u00a0 No doubt someone will outbid you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, why not Adam?\u00a0 It\u2019ll show the good citizens of Virginia City that you support Pa.\u00a0 Family pride, that\u2019s what it\u2019s all about.\u00a0 People will know that Adam Cartwright is right behind his father\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam placed his hand up to stop Joe.\u00a0 \u201cAlright before you go into one of those speeches about the merits of our father, I\u2019ll go.\u00a0 I may not like it but for your sake Pa, I\u2019ll go.\u201d\u00a0 It was getting late and since he didn\u2019t want to listen to any more of Joe\u2019s speeches or innuendos, he got up out of the red leather chair he had been sitting in.\u00a0 \u201cIf you two don\u2019t mind, I\u2019ll think I\u2019ll go to bed.\u00a0 I\u2019ve got a long day tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

As he watched Adam make his way upstairs, Ben stood up and walked over to Joe who was standing near the blue chair.\u00a0 He put his arm around the shoulders of his youngest son and smiled.\u00a0 When they heard the door to Adam\u2019s room close, they both turned to each other.\u00a0 Joe had a huge grin on his face.\u00a0 \u201cThat wasn\u2019t as hard as I thought it would be.\u00a0 Maybe old age is catching up with him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you\u2019re right.\u00a0 Thanks for the help, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy pleasure, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

Ben gazed slowly around the room.\u00a0 The Social Hall was a hive of activity.\u00a0 The auction had been going on for some time and there were still plenty of eager bidders around.\u00a0 Joe had already bid and won a hamper.\u00a0 He seemed extremely pleased to see that it belonged to Kathleen Miller, the pretty daughter of James Miller who owned the International Hotel.<\/p>\n

At last count, Ben could see that there were about five or six hampers left to go. \u00a0Adam, as of yet hadn\u2019t shown the slightest interest in bidding \u2013 which was a shame.\u00a0 There was bound to be one or two young ladies hoping that Adam would bid on their hamper.\u00a0 Ben, himself had unsuccessfully made an attempt to procure one particular hamper that looked very good but at the last minute, he had beaten to it by Roy Coffee.\u00a0 Roy had apologised to Ben before he went up to get the hamper saying that it had been ages since he had a good home-cooked meal.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s disappointment at losing the hamper was short-lived when he found out that the hamper belonged to Clementine Hawkins.\u00a0 Once again he thanked God for saving him from a fate worse than death.<\/p>\n

The next auction was beginning to start and Ben watched as a number of men raised their hands.\u00a0 Candy was even in on the bidding war and then to his surprise, Adam joined in.\u00a0 It was obvious that there was something special about this hamper.\u00a0 For a moment he considered joining in but thought better of it.<\/p>\n

For the next few minutes, the price began to go higher and higher until only Adam and another man were left bidding for the hamper.\u00a0 After a few more bids, the other man reluctantly conceded defeat.\u00a0 Ben watched as Adam moved forward and pay the price he had successfully bid.\u00a0 As he picked up the hamper, Adam looked around for the owner.<\/p>\n

In an instance, the look on Adam\u2019s face changed from his usual calmness to complete dread, as the owner of the hamper walked up, exclaiming her pleasure that Adam had been the one that had won.\u00a0 Ben was thrown into confusion when he saw this.\u00a0 He was even more confused when he had heard a few collected sighs of relief.\u00a0 A number of others, including Candy, were either smiling or laughing at something which only added to the confusion.\u00a0 One of these days he would have to find out why Viola Hedley could bring out such an adverse reaction in his sons and every other man in town.<\/p>\n

The grandfather clock in the great room of the Ponderosa ranch house chimed one.\u00a0 Ben quickly glanced at it as he stretched and yawned.\u00a0 \u201cTime for bed I think.\u00a0 It\u2019s been a long day.\u00a0 What about you, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe stretched out on the settee and folded his arms behind his head.\u00a0 \u201cI think I\u2019ll wait for ol\u2019 brother Adam to come home.\u201d\u00a0 A smile slowly spread across his face.<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head in confusion and decided that whatever it was that Joe was waiting for he didn\u2019t want to know.\u00a0 He was about to tell Joe goodnight when the front door slammed wide open.\u00a0 A look of mild astonishment crossed his face as he saw Adam standing there like he had just done three rounds with a grizzly.<\/p>\n

Joe had immediately sprung up when had heard the door opened.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t hide how funny his older brother looked right now.\u00a0 Sure part of him felt sorry for his brother.\u00a0 His own experience with Viola still sent cold shivers down his spine, but seeing Adam standing there, with his shirt ripped and hanging out was just too absurd to ignore.\u00a0 Joe paused for a moment to collect himself before he decided the time was right to speak up.\u00a0 \u201cHey, Adam.\u00a0 How was your evening?\u201d<\/p>\n

The scowl Adam had on his face continued to stay there as he slowly closed the door and took off his gun belt, which had been hanging precariously on his hips.\u00a0 He then made his way to the first available chair and sat down.\u00a0 As he leant back in the soft leather, he closed his eyes briefly as he pinched the bridge of his nose.\u00a0 Taking a deep breath, he slowly sat up straight and tilted his head towards Joe.\u00a0 In a slow and even tone, he spoke, \u201cYou know very well how it went.\u201d<\/p>\n

A frown crept onto Ben\u2019s face.\u00a0 He had no idea what was going on.\u00a0 It was more than obvious something had happened.\u00a0 For a moment he wondered where Adam\u2019s string tie and jacket were.\u00a0 Whatever had occurred, it looked like his sons weren\u2019t going to tell him.\u00a0 Fatherly concern took over as his gazed at his oldest son.\u00a0 \u201cAre you alright Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam lifted his head to look at his father.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m well as can be expected under the conditions.\u201d\u00a0 A slight chuckle escaped from Joe which caused Adam to take another deep breath.\u00a0 \u201cIf I ever get my hands on that woman\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought that was the last thing you wanted to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI am not talking about Viola Hedley.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyebrows raised a little.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re not?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m happy to hear that.\u201d\u00a0 From the way Adam was speaking, Ben had gotten the notion that Adam was planning a little revenge.\u00a0 This made him all the more curious to find out what had happened.\u00a0 He sat down in the blue chair.\u00a0 \u201cWhy not start with why you were so eager to win that hamper.\u201d<\/p>\n

A short snort escaped from Adam.\u00a0 Part of him didn\u2019t want to talk about it but another part of him knew that both Joe and his father would find out sooner or later.\u00a0 \u201cI was lead to believe that the hamper contained a bottle of Saint Emilion Premier Grand Cru.\u201d<\/p>\n

As Joe sat back down on the settee, he let out a low whistle.\u00a0 \u201cIsn\u2019t that hard to get?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben leant forward a little.\u00a0 \u201cWas the wine in the hamper?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, why don\u2019t you stop beating around the bush and just tell us what happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, I will.\u201d\u00a0 Adam stood up.\u00a0 \u201cAs you know Miss Hedley has sufficient funds to live on but not that sufficient.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe shrugged his shoulders a little.\u00a0 \u201cYeah but I don\u2019t see what that has to do with it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat I\u2019m trying to say is that someone else had to buy it for her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAhhh.\u00a0 I suppose you have an idea who did.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI do and she didn\u2019t do this on her own either.\u00a0 Someone had to tell her about my past experience with Miss Hedley.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben watched as Joe sat for a moment in deep thought, no doubt contemplating what Adam had just said.\u00a0 After a few minutes, Joe\u2019s eyes slowly widened as he turned his head to face Adam.\u00a0 There was definitely something about Miss Hedley and Ben decided that it was high time he found out.\u00a0 \u201cWill someone please tell me what is going on?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa.\u00a0 Miss Hedley, well let\u2019s just say she isn\u2019t what she seems.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can say that again.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ignoring Joe, Adam continued.\u00a0 \u201cIn polite terms, let\u2019s just say Miss Hedley has a voracious appetite where men are concerned.\u201d<\/p>\n

It only took Ben a few seconds to work out what Adam was hinting at.\u00a0 It all made sense now \u2013 the way men turned and ran when they saw her coming.\u00a0 The reactions of his sons every time her name was mentioned.\u00a0 The way Adam looked right now.\u00a0 Ben shook his head in slight disbelief.\u00a0 \u201cShe seems so timid.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what we all thought when we saw her the first time.\u201d\u00a0 Joe sighed.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re right Adam someone had to tell and I think I know who.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 Your friend certainly picked his moment.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat explains why Candy decided to head out to the line shack on the far side of the ranch tonight.\u201d\u00a0 Joe chuckled.\u00a0 \u201cI think he\u2019ll be gone a few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI have no doubt he\u2019ll return when he thinks it safe.\u00a0 As for his accomplice, I plan to do something about her part in this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow Adam I hope you don\u2019t intend to harm the lady.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo Pa.\u00a0 I have no intention of harming Mrs Whitaker – physically.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben studied Adam for a few moments.\u00a0 He could see the grim determination on his son\u2019s face.\u00a0 In a way, he felt sorry for Leslie Whitaker but she probably knew what she was getting herself into.\u00a0 This feud between her and Adam showed no signs of ending in the near future and that was something he, for some unknown reason, was very sadden by.<\/p>\n

\n

As he took another sip from the cup of tea he had been given earlier, Ben once again found himself in a position of studying the people who had come to this Saturday afternoon get-together at the home of Tom Barnes, the manager of the Cattleman\u2019s Bank.\u00a0 At every one of these social gatherings, that Joe had made him go to over the last week, it was always nearly the same group.\u00a0 Sure there were one or two new people but mostly the same group made up of the most prominent citizens in Virginia City.<\/p>\n

He sighed as he took another sip of tea.\u00a0 Something about this whole business of running for mayor had started to grate.\u00a0 Joe had insisted that he should attend every function he possibly could but even that was beginning to seem too much.\u00a0 The thought that he should drop out of the race was beginning to make sense but there was something else that just didn\u2019t add up.\u00a0 Ben wished he could figure out what it was.\u00a0 Just as he was about to take another sip of tea, he felt a slight tap on his shoulder.\u00a0 He turned around and was pleased to see that it was Leslie Whitaker.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Whitaker.\u00a0 It\u2019s a pleasure to see you again.\u201d<\/p>\n

Leslie smiled.\u00a0 \u201cThank you Mr Cartwright and I return the compliment.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben grinned and then began to have a quick look around the room.\u00a0 He spotted a vacant settee and without asking, directed Leslie towards it.\u00a0 After they were seated, he turned to face her.\u00a0 \u201cYou know we haven\u2019t had the chance to really talk since you\u2019ve come back.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve both been rather busy.\u00a0 It\u2019s taken some time to settle back here and set up my affairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been busy with Hoss\u2019 wedding and now running for mayor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 By the way, have you heard from Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI heard from Hoss a couple of days ago.\u00a0 He and Annie will be back on Monday.\u201d\u00a0 Ben studied the woman opposite him for a moment.\u00a0 She had brown eyes and her face, who some men would regard as plain, actually showed off some of the joy he had seen her express on a number occasions.\u00a0 A curious look suddenly appeared on her face.\u00a0 He realised he had been staring at her for a bit longer than was socially acceptable.\u00a0 He chuckled a little.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing to be sorry for Mr Cartwright.\u00a0 However, I have been remiss in what I wanted to speak to you about.\u00a0 No doubt you know by now my little part in what happened the other night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t exactly call it little but yes I do know.\u201d<\/p>\n

As she took a deep breath, Leslie nodded slowly.\u00a0 \u201cI just wanted to know if the situation between me and Adam is having any bearing on our friendship.\u00a0 I have always felt a degree of friendship and gratitude towards you ever since you helped my family.\u00a0 A part of me is afraid that my feud with Adam may have ruined any feelings of friendship that you may have had for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben placed his hand on Leslie\u2019s hands which were resting on her lap.\u00a0 \u201cWhat happens with Adam is between you and him.\u00a0 You have no need to worry on that account.\u00a0 I\u2019ve always liked you and what Adam feels about you has no bearing. \u00a0I can judge people for myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

Leslie let out a small laugh that spoke of her relief.\u00a0 \u201cOnce again, thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know Adam wasn\u2019t too happy about the situation you put him in the other night.\u00a0 He does plan to do something but I have no idea what.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI have no doubt about that it.\u201d\u00a0 Leslie took a quick look around the room.\u00a0 It was time to change the subject.\u00a0 \u201cHow are things going with your campaign?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThings are going as well as can be expected.\u00a0 Joe is doing his best to make sure that I am seen everywhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEverywhere, especially at the functions that Kathleen Miller is attending with her father.\u201d<\/p>\n

A look of mild confusion spread across Ben\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cKathleen Miller?\u00a0 James Miller\u2019s daughter?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe one and the same.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI noticed that Joe won her hamper at the box social.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo did I.\u00a0 She came back the day before Hoss\u2019 wedding.\u00a0 Since her family are friends with Annie\u2019s she was probably at the wedding.\u00a0 Joe probably made her acquaintance there.\u201d<\/p>\n

For the next few minutes, Ben silently watched Joe and Miss Miller.\u00a0 It seemed that Joe was rather taken with the pretty young lady.\u00a0 She certainly looked like the type of woman Joe liked \u2013 blonde and very feminine.\u00a0 Since her father was the owner of one of the hotels here in town and he would have an interest in who became the next mayor.\u00a0 After he had finished his appraisal of the situation, Ben returned his attention to Leslie.\u00a0 \u201cShe\u2019s certainly not the girl she was before she left for finishing school.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is true in more than the obvious way,\u201d\u00a0 Leslie smirked.\u00a0 Over the years she had found out that she could learn a lot about by people by just watching and listening to them talk.\u00a0 From the few conversations she had with Kathleen Miller, she had an idea of what the girl was like.\u00a0 Leslie\u2019s suspicions had been confirmed a few minutes earlier, when Kathleen, herself, had expressed her opinion on what she thought was the ideal husband.\u00a0 Joe probably knew too.\u00a0 \u201cMr Cartwright, I think you should know something about Miss Miller, it may help you understand a few things.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you\u2019re right.\u00a0 There are a few things I don\u2019t understand at the moment.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEarlier I saw you standing by yourself and I could tell that you were unsure about something.\u201d\u00a0 Seeing the questioning look that Ben was giving her, she smiled.\u00a0 \u201cYour shoulders were slightly slumped as if you were carrying a heavy weight.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYes, I\u2019ve been seriously thinking about if I really want to be mayor.\u00a0 There have been times that I have wanted to give up but I get the feeling that Joe would talk me back into.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom what I remember of Joe, he does have that talent.\u00a0 So, then what I\u2019m about to tell you may help you understand some of Joe\u2019s reasons for you staying in the race.\u00a0 It seems that Miss Miller, while back east, developed a taste for men, who well\u2026who can make things happen and are seen making things happen if you understand my meaning.\u201d<\/p>\n

For the first time ever since he told Joe about his decision to run for mayor, things were starting to make sense.\u00a0 It was so simple and he was at a loss as to why he hadn\u2019t seen it himself.\u00a0 He knew that part of Joe\u2019s enthusiasm was genuine but now he knew a large part of it was because his son had once again let another part of his body do the thinking for him.<\/p>\n

\n

Hoss took a deep breath.\u00a0 He had been laughing so hard that he needed to.\u00a0 Poor Adam getting himself caught by Viola Hedley again.\u00a0 For a brief moment, he wondered if Adam had gotten a souvenir like he did the last time around.\u00a0 Guess he would never know.\u00a0 Adam had left that morning on some Secret Service business and wouldn\u2019t most likely be back until well and truly after any marks had disappeared.\u00a0 As he looked over at his father, he could see a slight smirk on the man\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cHey Pa, how are things going with the future mayor of Virginia City?\u201d<\/p>\n

The smirk that Ben had had, disappeared.\u00a0 \u201cThings are going as well as can be expected.\u201d\u00a0 It was Monday and he hadn\u2019t had the chance yet to speak to Joe.\u00a0 Until he actually spoke to Joe, he wasn\u2019t about to do anything he might regret later on.\u00a0 If he was going to drop out of the race, it had to be for his own reasons and not because of what Joe or anybody else wanted him to do.<\/p>\n

Before Hoss could say another word, the front door opened.\u00a0 Joe stood up, folded his arms and nodded his head slightly.\u00a0 \u201cAh\u2026the prodigal returns.\u201d<\/p>\n

Candy took off his coat, hat and gun belt.\u00a0 \u201cI got word that Adam was gone and I figured it was safe to come back.\u201d\u00a0 He placed the items on the sideboard and made his way over to the middle of the room.\u00a0 \u201cMr Cartwright I checked the fencing on the north side and made the necessary repairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Candy.\u00a0 Dinner won\u2019t be for another hour, so you\u2019ve got some time to get yourself cleaned up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe took a sniff of the air.\u00a0 \u201cSo, that\u2019s where that smell is coming from.\u00a0 Good thinking Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHa. Ha.\u00a0 Very funny.\u201d\u00a0 Candy went over to Hoss and held out his hand.\u00a0 \u201cHow\u2019s married life treating you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss took Candy\u2019s hand and shook it heartedly.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s goin\u2019 great.\u00a0 Annie\u2019s all that a man could wish for.\u00a0 She\u2019s cookin\u2019 pot roast tonight.\u00a0 It\u2019s the best that I\u2019ve ever tasted.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben smiled.\u00a0 \u201cSounds good, son.\u00a0 Just make sure Hop Sing\u2019s not around when you say things like that.\u00a0 He won\u2019t like it much.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he won\u2019t.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss chuckled.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing is still the best cook this side of the Sierra Nevada – only when I\u2019m inside this house.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cVery diplomatic of you, big brother.\u201d\u00a0 Joe turned to Candy and grinned.\u00a0 \u201cWhat I want to know is what you plan to do when Adam gets back.\u00a0 There are only so many fences on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Candy shrugged his shoulders.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll cross that bridge when I come to it.\u00a0 For now, I\u2019m going to go and get cleaned up.\u201d<\/p>\n

The three Cartwright men watched Candy leave the room.\u00a0 When he had gone, Hoss shook his head sadly.\u00a0 \u201cLooks like things are goin\u2019 from bad to worse where Adam and Candy are concerned.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, they are.\u00a0 Hopefully, Adam will have the good sense not to do anything that he\u2019ll regret later on when he gets back from his assignment.\u201d\u00a0 Ben sighed.<\/p>\n

Seeing that his father was beginning to become a bit withdrawn, Hoss cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cWell, Pa I guess we should discuss that job you\u2019ve got planned for tomorrow.\u00a0 Annie won\u2019t like it if I\u2019m late for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYeah I can see it now.\u00a0 Little Annie telling Big Hoss off.\u00a0 Come to think of it I wouldn\u2019t mind going over and watching what happens.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot if I can help it.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss proceeded to walk over to his father\u2019s desk.<\/p>\n

Ben could see that Hoss was serious, so he got up.\u00a0 Maybe it was a good idea to think about the ranch for a while.\u00a0 It was the only thing that didn\u2019t seem to be causing a problem for him or anyone else in his family.<\/p>\n

\n

Later that evening, Ben found himself seated in front of the fireplace.\u00a0 As he slowly puffed on his pipe, his mind began to wander over the events of the last few months.\u00a0 The first person he thought of was the one he had concluded had the most problems.\u00a0 Adam had been through so much emotionally \u2013 the affair with Jane Talbot and the fallout from that.\u00a0 Then the unexpected role of fatherhood being thrust upon him.\u00a0 Tom was surely but slowly warming to his father and the rest of them but there was still a long way to go.\u00a0 The talk around town about the boy probably didn\u2019t help much either.\u00a0 Now there was the mystery of why Adam was acting towards Leslie Whitaker in such a callous manner.<\/p>\n

Ben knew deep down that things with Tom would turn out right in the end and the mess with Miss Talbot would be resolved in one way or another.\u00a0 However, for the life of him, he could not understand why Adam\u2019s problem with Leslie was the more worrisome one of the lot.\u00a0 Even his conflict with whether or not he should stay in the mayoral race seemed to dim in comparison.\u00a0 It disturbed him greatly that he had strong feelings for Leslie but he was unsure whether it was a fatherly affection he felt for her or something more. \u00a0If it was the latter, then that might cause more problems.<\/p>\n

In order, to keep himself, from dwelling too much on the subject, Ben turned his mind to Joe.\u00a0 He resolved that at the first opportunity he should ask Joe what his intentions towards Miss Miller were.\u00a0 On the surface Joe seemed to be genuine but about the running the campaign but prior experience had taught that where Joe was concerned, things weren\u2019t always what they seemed.\u00a0 It was another thing he had to consider in making the decision he now needed to make.<\/p>\n

When Roy and Paul had initially approached him about running for mayor, he was a little apprehensive.\u00a0 He had gradually warmed to the idea and at one point was looking forward to the challenge of setting Virginia City on the right track.\u00a0 Ben was at a loss as to when it had all started to go wrong.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t just the predicament with Joe.\u00a0 It was other things.\u00a0 The campaign was time-consuming and he found that he missed being a part of what was going on here at the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Sure, the boys were doing a great job \u2013 he had taught them well \u2013 but it just wasn\u2019t the same.<\/p>\n

If he became mayor \u2013 what then?\u00a0 There would be a loss of some of the privacy he valued.\u00a0 No doubt there would be people out there who would watch his every move.\u00a0 The Cartwrights had their friends but they also had their enemies.\u00a0 Enemies, who at the first available opportunity would love to bring him down.\u00a0 There were other things to consider as well.\u00a0 Things such as if he deemed his feelings for Leslie weren\u2019t fatherly, he would then want to court her and he couldn\u2019t put her under the same pressure that he would be.<\/p>\n

As he continued to think about it, Ben weighed the advantages and disadvantages of being mayor.\u00a0 For every plus, he could think of a minus.\u00a0 He also thought about what he wanted to do and what was the right thing to do.\u00a0 After an hour, Ben finally came to a conclusion.\u00a0 He got up and smiled.\u00a0 Some people may not like what he was about to do but he knew in his heart that it was the only way to go.<\/p>\n

\n

\u201cLadies and Gentlemen, I give you the new mayor of Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

The applause in the Social Hall was loud, showing the crowd\u2019s enthusiastic praise.\u00a0 Ben could hear people saying that they had made the right choice.\u00a0 He looked in the direction of Leslie Whitaker, who just nodded and smiled.\u00a0 His gaze then fell on his sons, who were also showing their appreciation.\u00a0 A few seconds later a hush fell over the hall as the citizens of Virginia waited to hear the first official public speech from the new mayor.<\/p>\n

When the speech was over, Ben made his way over to Adam and Hoss, who were hovering near the refreshment table.\u00a0 He could see that Hoss was trying to decide if he should try a piece of apple pie or a piece of lemon meringue pie.\u00a0 Ben chuckled and placed his hand on Hoss\u2019 shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cYou better make up your mind quick.\u00a0 I think there\u2019s a line forming.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u00a0 Oh yeah, I\u2019d better.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss then promptly place a piece of apple pie on his plate.<\/p>\n

As the three of them moved away from the table, Adam smiled.\u00a0 \u201cYou know Pa.\u00a0 I think Jim Forrester will be a great mayor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think so too.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo hard feelings about throwing in the towel?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo Adam.\u00a0 I know I made the right decision.\u201d\u00a0 Ben casually glanced in the direction where Joe was standing talking to his latest interest.\u00a0 \u201cI see Joe didn\u2019t take long to recover from the prospect of losing Miss Miller.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know Joe.\u00a0 There\u2019s always something better around the corner.\u201d\u00a0 Adam paused for a moment.\u00a0 \u201cPa?\u00a0 I\u2019ve been meaning to ask.\u00a0 When did you notice that things were wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sighed.\u00a0 \u201cI guess things were wrong from the start.\u00a0 There were signs all over the place and I never saw them.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t until Mrs Whitaker mentioned to me about Joe\u2019s interest in Kathleen Miller, that I finally sat up and took notice of what was going on around me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam raised an eyebrow.\u00a0 \u201cOne good thing I can say about Mrs Whitaker is that at least she is level-headed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss guffawed.\u00a0 \u201cOnly one?\u00a0 C\u2019mon Adam I thought you were smarter than that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss is right, Adam.\u00a0 Mrs Whitaker has quite a number of interesting qualities.\u201d<\/p>\n

A questioning look appeared both on the faces of Adam and Hoss.\u00a0 Ben just gazed at them innocently.\u00a0 \u201cI think I\u2019ll go and help Roy out.\u00a0 It looks like Clementine Hawkins has taken a shine to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Before he could be questioned anymore on the matter of Leslie Whitaker, Ben started to make his way over to his friend.\u00a0 In the beginning, he realised he had only accepted because he didn\u2019t want to disappoint his friends.\u00a0 Paul and Roy had been so eager to see him take a more active role in helping Virginia City to develop.\u00a0 When he had decided to withdraw from the mayoral race, they had taken it well.\u00a0 There were no hard feelings as they accepted his decision.\u00a0 Even Joe had understood which surprised him a little.\u00a0 Hoss was naturally pleased and as for Adam, he could see the relief in his son\u2019s eyes even though Adam hadn\u2019t shown it on the outside.<\/p>\n

As he continued to make his way across the room, Ben smiled as he felt a measure of pride for his sons.\u00a0 They would have supported him no matter how they felt or which way he had gone and he was indeed thankful for that.\u00a0 Even though there would be times he would regret his decision, deep down Ben knew that he had made the right one.<\/p>\n

In the near future, when one of the reasons why he had quit became obvious – if it hadn\u2019t already, then he would have problems but he would deal with them when the time came.\u00a0 All Ben wanted to think of at this point was that he was now free to pursue things that mattered to him more \u2013 whether his sons or anybody else for that matter, liked it or not.<\/p>\n

THE END<\/p>\n

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

Summary: Ben is asked to run for mayor of Virginia City. However, he finds out that it may not be as straightforward as it seems. <\/p>\n

Rated: PG (7658 words)<\/p>\n

The Way Things Are Series, links to stories within the series are included.<\/p>\n

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