{"id":13943,"date":"2005-12-12T14:07:54","date_gmt":"2005-12-12T19:07:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13943"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:10:33","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:10:33","slug":"legacy-from-new-orleans-by-susan-g","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13943","title":{"rendered":"Legacy from New Orleans (by Susan G)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong>\u00a0 There’s more than meets the eye when a man named Charles Dumont and his ward appear at the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0\u00a0 (29,550 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Legacy from New Orleans<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss Cartwright wearily dismounted from his horse and walked toward the chuckwagon. He was hot, tired and sore; he had been in the saddle from sunup and was happy to take a break. He poured himself a cup of coffee from the pot on the cook fire and, with a sigh, sat on a nearby log.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Hoss began to sip his coffee, his brother Adam rode up. Adam dismounted and walked to where his brother was resting. \u201cWhat do you think you’re doing?\u201d he demanded. \u201cWe still have a lot of cows to round up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d answered Hoss in a tired voice, \u201cI\u2019ve been working since early this morning. I\u2019ve rounded up all the cattle on the north slope, and checked the creekbed. I\u2019ve been in the saddle for almost six hours. I figure you can spare me for ten minutes while I get a cup of coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d Adam said with a guilty flush. \u201cI didn\u2019t mean to jump on you. I know you\u2019ve been working hard. It\u2019s just that Pa put me in charge of rounding up and moving the herd, and I want to make sure we get it done right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll get done right, Adam,\u201d promised Hoss. \u201cIt always does.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. He knew what Hoss was saying was true. Rounding up and moving the herd was a regular chore on the Ponderosa. Usually, his father led the roundup but Ben Cartwright was busy with some timber contracts. Adam just wanted to be sure nothing went wrong.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Joe?\u201d asked Adam, looking around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t know,\u201d answered Hoss. \u201cHe was heading over toward the canyon a little while ago. Said something about looking for strays over there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the brothers were talking, a young man on a pinto rode up at a full gallop. Adam sighed. If Joe was riding that fast, something was wrong. What now, Adam thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I need two men,\u201d yelled Joe Cartwright as he reined his pinto to a halt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTwo men? What for?\u201d asked Adam<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s about twenty head of cattle trapped in the box canyon. I need some men to help me get them out,\u201d replied Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTwenty head of cattle? Are you sure?\u201d asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s see,\u201d said Joe slowly. \u201cThey\u2019re brown, and they\u2019ve got four legs and horns. And they look a lot like the picture of cows that Pa used to show me when I was two. Yeah, I think they\u2019re cattle,\u201d Joe finished with a wry grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss roared with laughter. \u201cAdam, maybe you ought to draw Joe a picture, just to be sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Flushed with anger, Adam said heatedly, \u201cI didn\u2019t mean are they cattle. I meant, how did they get trapped in there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks like they wandered in on a narrow trail,\u201d Joe answered. \u201cA rock slide blocked the trail, and they couldn\u2019t get out. I need two men to help me clear the debris and make an opening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood wearily. \u201cI\u2019d better handle this. Joe, you go check on the rest of the herd.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can handle it, Adam,\u201d said Joe, his anger beginning to build. \u201cJust give me the men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, this could be a little tricky. We need to be careful that we don\u2019t start another rock slide,\u201d countered Adam. \u201cAlso, I want to be sure the opening is wide enough for the cattle to get out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know that,\u201d Joe said heatedly. \u201cI\u2019ll take care of it. Just give me the two men!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shaking his head, Adam answered, \u201cNo, this takes someone with some know-how to handle.\u201d He glared at Joe. \u201cNow, do what I said. Check the herd. I\u2019ll get the cattle from the canyon.\u201d Adam pointedly turned his back to his youngest brother and walked to his horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoggone it, Hoss!\u201d Joe shouted with anger. \u201cAdam treats me like I was a kid. I know how to get those cattle out. I should have just grabbed two men and handled it myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, Joe,\u201d said Hoss soothingly. \u201cAdam doesn\u2019t mean nothing. He\u2019s got a lot on his mind. Besides, he IS a lot more experienced than you. He can probably handle it better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pursing his lips in anger, Joe growled, \u201cThanks a lot.\u201d . He wheeled his horse around and rode toward the herd.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. Joe just doesn\u2019t understand, he thought. Hoss took a deep breath and finished his coffee. He stood, hiked his pants and walked to his horse. After he mounted, Hoss sat for a minute. He could see Adam in the distance, riding to the canyon with two men. He turned his head and saw Joe riding around the herd, keeping the cattle bunched tight. He decided he\u2019d better check the brush to the south for more strays, and rode off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An hour later, Adam and the two hands returned to the herd, pushing twenty or so cows ahead of them. Joe watched the men as they guided the cattle toward the main herd, then rode over to Adam. \u201cSee you got them out,\u201d he said with a trace of bitterness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it took us awhile to clear that path,\u201d Adam replied, nodding. \u201cThe rocks and dirt were pretty loose. It\u2019s a good thing you didn\u2019t try it on your own. You might have caused another landslide.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe said nothing. He stared at his brother for a minute, then turned his horse and rode off. Adam watched him with a frown. Wonder what\u2019s bothering him, he thought. With a shrug, he went back to work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the rest of the day Joe avoided his brothers as he worked, but Hoss and Adam were so busy that they barely noticed his absence. The herd continued to grow in size as all three Cartwrights plus their crew kept guiding stray cattle into it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sun was beginning to set as Adam declared the work for today finished. He left six hands to rotate on night watch, making sure the herd kept bunched and didn\u2019t stray. Joe was silent as Adam praised the crew for a job well done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the Cartwright brothers headed for the ranch house, Joe lagged behind Adam and Hoss. Adam looked over his shoulder once or twice, noting Joe\u2019s sullen expression. \u201cYou\u2019re not still mad about that canyon, are you?\u201d Adam finally asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI could have handled it,\u201d answered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s over and done with. Forget it,\u201d said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clamping his teeth tightly, Joe scowled at this brothers. Adam looked at Hoss with a quizzical expression. Hoss just shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was dark by the time the Cartwrights reached the ranch house. They stabled their horses and walked toward the house. Hoss stretched as they walked. \u201cI hope Hop Sing has dinner ready,\u201d the big man said. \u201cI could eat a whole steer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s unusual about that?\u201d kidded Adam. \u201cYou can always eat a whole steer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but this time, I’m too hungry to bother to wait for Hop Sing to cook it,\u201d answered Hoss with a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright was sitting in his leather chair by the fire as his sons walked in the house. He smiled as they began removing their hats and holsters. \u201cWell, it\u2019s about time you boys got here,\u201d he said with a smile. \u201cDinner’s almost ready. Get cleaned up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Brushing by his brothers, Joe climbed the steps without a word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Surprised at his youngest son\u2019s actions, Ben watched Joe, then turned to Adam and Hoss. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with Joe?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, Pa, he\u2019s just got his feathers ruffled because Adam wouldn\u2019t let him clear a trail by the box canyon,\u201d said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a pretty tricky situation,\u201d explained Adam. \u201cThe dirt was loose and I was afraid Joe might start another landslide. I told him I would handle it and he got mad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCouldn\u2019t Joe have cleared the trail?\u201d Ben asked, frowning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe,\u201d admitted Adam. \u201cBut I wasn\u2019t sure and I didn\u2019t want to take the chance. He might not have known how to do it without getting hurt, or making the situation worse.\u201d Adam turned to Hoss. \u201cC\u2019mon, we\u2019d better get cleaned up before you fall over in a faint from hunger.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned. \u201cYeah,\u201d he agreed. \u201cI\u2019m getting right puny.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he watched Adam and Hoss climb the stairs, Ben\u2019s frown deepened. He didn\u2019t like the idea of his sons having petty fights. It could lead to something more serious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dinner was a pretty quiet meal. Adam outlined the day\u2019s accomplishments to his father as they ate. Joe said nothing and Hoss was too busy piling food on his plate to contribute much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Adam had finished telling his father about the day, Ben smiled. \u201cSounds like you boys are doing a good job,\u201d he said. \u201cDo you think you\u2019ll get the herd moved to the new pasture tomorrow?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe should be ready to move them tomorrow,\u201d Adam answered. He turned to Hoss. \u201cI want you to go up to Oak Meadows tomorrow morning and check the creek. We need to be sure be sure there\u2019s enough water there for the herd. Remember last year, some beavers had dammed it up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss put down his fork. \u201cDoggone it, Adam,\u201d he complained in a cranky tone. \u201cI haven\u2019t got time to ride up there. I got to make sure we finish branding those calves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, somebody\u2019s got to do it. I need somebody I can trust. If we send one of the hands, they won\u2019t know if the water level is right or not,\u201d replied Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you do it?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I have to count the herd and get them organized to drive,\u201d answered Adam, the patience in his voice wearing thin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Adam, if I don\u2019t watch the branding, one of those drovers is liable to brand a calf that don\u2019t belong to us,\u201d argued Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t very well leave it to one of the hands to count the herd and get them moving,\u201d Adam argued back. \u201cAnd if we get the herd up to Oak Meadows and there\u2019s not enough water, we have a real problem. I need you to check the creek. It\u2019s important.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abruptly, Joe threw his napkin on the table and stood up. \u201cI\u2019m going to the barn,\u201d he announced and walked out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both Adam and Hoss watched him leave with a surprise. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with him?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had nothing as Adam and Hoss talked. Now he shook his head at Adam\u2019s and Hoss\u2019 surprise at Joe\u2019s reaction to their conversation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou boys just told your brother Joe that you didn\u2019t trust him to check a creek, watch the branding, or count the herd,\u201d Ben explained quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe never said that,\u201d Adam said with a frown.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes you did,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cYou two sat there and listed all the important things that had to be done, and not once did you think of asking Joe to help. What was he supposed to think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, we didn\u2019t mean we didn\u2019t trust Joe,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cIt\u2019s just that, well, he\u2019s just a kid.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss is right, Pa,\u201d added Adam. \u201cJoe can take on some of these chores when he\u2019s a little older.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA little older?\u201d said Ben. \u201cHow old does he have to be? Joe\u2019s not a kid any more. He\u2019s twenty-two; he\u2019s a young man. You two have been thinking of him as a little brother for so long that you haven\u2019t realized that he\u2019s grown up right under your noses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss looked at each other. \u201cMaybe Pa\u2019s right,\u201d said Hoss slowly. \u201cYou know, Joe handled breaking all those horses and getting them to the Army last month. He did a good job with getting those cattle to the railhead before that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but what if he makes a mistake? That could cause us some real problems,\u201d argued Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember you two making some mistakes along the way,\u201d Ben reminded his sons. \u201cYou corrected them and you learned. I think you owe it to Joe to allow him to do the same thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat thoughtfully. \u201cYou\u2019re right,\u201d he admitted finally. \u201cI guess we have been treating him like one of the hands instead of letting him do the important work. Do you think I should go talk to him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d said Ben, standing. \u201cI\u2019ll go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben walked to the barn and opened the door. He look in and saw Joe was rubbing his saddle with half-hearted swipes of a rag. Joe turned to see who came in, then went back to work. \u201cCome to see if I found my way to the barn all right?\u201d he asked angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Standing just inside the barn door, Ben said nothing. He knew Joe wasn\u2019t really angry at him; he was just lashing out at the first person he saw.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Half-heartedly, Joe rubbed the saddle a few more times, then stopped. He turned to his father. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d he apologized in a contrite voice. \u201cI didn\u2019t mean that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d said Ben quietly. \u201cYou\u2019re angry at your brothers, not me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, Adam and Hoss treat me like I\u2019m twelve years old,\u201d Joe complained, his voice filled with frustration. \u201cEvery time I try to do something, they ignore me or push me aside. I\u2019m tired of them acting like they know everything and I know nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again, Ben stood silently for a minute. Then he took a few steps to a bale of hay and sat down. \u201cJoe, sit down,\u201d he said. Joe hesitated. \u201cPlease, sit down,\u201d Ben repeated. Joe dropped the rag and walked to bale of hay. He sat down next to Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put his arm around Joe\u2019s shoulders. \u201cI know it\u2019s hard being the youngest,\u201d he said. \u201cAdam and Hoss don\u2019t ignore you on purpose. They just think of you as a little brother. They forget you\u2019re not that boy who used to tag along with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019m not a kid anymore,\u201d stated Joe firmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know that,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cAnd I don\u2019t think I\u2019ve treated you like one. I\u2019ve given you just as many jobs to do as your brothers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not you, Pa,\u201d Joe agreed. \u201cBut I get so mad at Adam and Hoss\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat doesn\u2019t help the situation,\u201d interrupted Ben. \u201cWhen you get angry, you make things worse. A man doesn\u2019t get angry over little slights. Only a boy does that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Seeing his father\u2019s point, Joe nodded. \u201cYou right. I guess I do lose my temper too much. But how can I get Adam and Hoss to take me seriously?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBy always doing your best, by taking on any job that needs to be done no matter how small a task it is, and by working with them, not against them,\u201d Ben advised. \u201cIt was hard for me at first to let you and Adam and Hoss to take over running some things on the ranch. I was sure I could do everything better and faster myself. It took me awhile to realize that my sons were grown men, and that they were able to do things just as well – or even better – than I could. When I finally let you boys take over some things, I found that we could make the Ponderosa an even better ranch. And everyone was happier. A man is always happier when he\u2019s given responsibility, given important work to do. Adam and Hoss will learn that. You just have to be patient with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled. \u201cBe patient with them? That\u2019s a switch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Laughing, Ben said, \u201cI know. But you have to try.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will, agreed Joe a bit grudgingly. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I lost my temper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben clapped Joe on the shoulder. \u201cHow about telling your brothers that?\u201d he asked. Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Ben and Joe walked back into the house, Adam and Hoss were standing by the fireplace. Adam immediately turned to his youngest brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Hoss and I have been talking. I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Adam apologized. \u201cI didn\u2019t realize I was ignoring you. I didn\u2019t mean it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we haven\u2019t been treating you right,\u201d added Hoss. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I shouldn\u2019t have lost my temper,\u201d Joe offered. \u201cIt was my fault for getting mad so easily.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess we were all wrong,\u201d said Hoss with a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he listened to his sons, Ben smiled. He had hoped they would get over their bad feelings quickly. He was happy that they had.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell you what,\u201d Adam said. \u201cWhy doesn\u2019t Joe take charge of the branding, I\u2019ll count the herd, and Hoss can check that creek.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe branding! That\u2019s the worst job of the three!\u201d Joe protested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLittle brother, we said we want to give you a job to do,\u201d said Hoss smiling. \u201cWe didn\u2019t say we would give you a GOOD job.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone laughed. Ben sighed with relief as he saw his sons kidding each other again. It was a sign that the bad feelings were forgotten.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you boys are going to finish that round up tomorrow, you are going to have to get started early. I think maybe you ought to turn in,\u201d Ben suggested. He noted the frown starting to form on Joe\u2019s face. \u201cOf course, that\u2019s up to you,\u201d added Ben quickly. \u201cYou\u2019re all old enough to make your own decisions.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled wryly. \u201cI know Adam and Hoss need their sleep. They aren\u2019t as young as they used to be.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I can manage to get these old bones up to my room,\u201d said Adam with a smile. \u201cI\u2019ll see you in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe decided to join Adam in calling it an early night. As they followed their older brother up the stairs, Ben sank into his leather chair. Raising sons, he decided, was a challenge. He hoped he was up to it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he sat at his desk, Ben read the proposed timber contracts and began calculating the lumber he would need. He put down the papers and rubbed his eyes, feeling tired. It was late afternoon and he had been working on the contracts most of the day. Adam, Hoss and Joe had left early in the morning to finish moving the herd. The boys were in a good mood when they left, their squabble forgotten. Ben hoped their good humor would continue. He felt sure that their disagreement was just the result of long hours in the saddle the last few days. He knew how irritable one could be after spending ten or twelve hours a day herding cattle. He also wished he were at the round-up instead of stuck at home with this paperwork. With a sigh, he picked up the papers in front of him and began to read again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A knock at the door startled Ben. He had been concentrating on the contracts and hadn\u2019t hear anyone ride up. He put the papers on and his desk and walked quickly to the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pulling open the door, Ben saw a gray-haired man standing before him. The man was in his fifties, dressed in an fancy gray suit and carrying a walking stick. Next to the man was a beautiful young woman who looked to be in her early twenties. The woman was wearing a fashionable-cut blue traveling outfit \u2013 a short jacket trimmed in black velvet and long skirt. Her thick, black hair was pulled back and pinned into a twist at the back of her head. A small blue hat sat at an angle on her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, can I help you?\u201d asked Ben of the strangers who stood before him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Benjamin,\u201d the man answered, speaking with a French accent. \u201cIt is good to see you again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stared at the man, then shook his head. \u201cI\u2019m sorry\u2026.\u201d he began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not surprised you don\u2019t recognize me after all these years,\u201d the man said with a smile. \u201cI\u2019m Charles Dumont.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles Dumont! Marie\u2019s cousin!\u201d exclaimed Ben in surprise. Several emotions flashed across Ben\u2019s face \u2013 astonishment, confusion, and doubt .\u201cI didn\u2019t recognize you. It\u2019s been, what, twenty-five years since I saw you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomething like that,\u201d agreed Charles airily. \u201cMay we come in?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, of course,\u201d Ben said hastily. He stepped back and opened the door. \u201cPlease come in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d replied Charles as he entered the house. He paused in the doorway and looked around. \u201cWhat a fine house. I\u2019m not surprised. Marie always did have a flair for making a house look its best.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The young woman followed Charles into the house and smiled demurely at Ben; Charles seemed to have forgotten her as he studied the house. Suddenly, he realized she was standing at his side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are my manners?\u201d apologized Charles. \u201cBen Cartwright, this is my niece, Denise. Denise, this is Ben Cartwright, the husband of my beloved cousin Marie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWelcome,\u201d Ben greeted the young woman with a smile. He turned to Charles. \u201cYour niece? I didn\u2019t know you had any close family.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, actually Denise is the daughter of a distant relative. These relationships get so complicated that it is simpler to call her my niece,\u201d replied Charles smoothly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m the one forgetting my manners now,\u201d said Ben. He gestured toward the sofa. \u201cPlease come in and sit down. Can I offer you some coffee?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, that would be nice,\u201d Charles replied as he strolled across the room. Denise smiled and followed Dumont.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing! Hop Sing!\u201d shouted Ben as he escorted the pair to the couch. Charles and Denise settled themselves comfortably on the couch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing came running from the kitchen. \u201cWhat you want?\u201d he asked. \u201cHop Sing making dinner; no time for foolishness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, we have visitors,\u201d Ben explained. \u201cThis is Charles Dumont. He is Mrs. Cartwright\u2019s cousin. And this is his niece, Denise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Cartwright\u2019s cousin!\u201d exclaimed the Chinese cook with delight. \u201cAh, very good, very good.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, please bring us some coffee,\u201d ordered Ben. Giving a quick nod, Hop Sing ran back to the kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Turning, Ben moved to in his favorite leather chair next to the fire. \u201cCharles, it\u2019s nice to see you,\u201d he said in a neutral tone. \u201cWe lost track of you after Marie and I left New Orleans. I wrote you when Marie died, but never heard back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh, my poor Marie,\u201d Charles replied sadly. \u201cI meant to send my condolences, Benjamin. She was such a lovely woman. So sad that she was taken from us so soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d said Ben quietly. His eyes drifted off in remembrance for a moment. Ben shook his head quickly. \u201cWhat brings you to Nevada?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBusiness,\u201d Charles answered vaguely. \u201cI was traveling in the area. I thought I would spend a few days in Virginia City. I would very much like to meet Marie\u2019s son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d asked Ben in a cautious voice. \u201cWhat\u2019s your interest in Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no special interest,\u201d said Charles. \u201cI suppose as one gets older, one gets more sentimental. I thought I should meet and get to know Marie\u2019s son while I had the opportunity.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The conversation was interrupted by Hop Sing, who entered the room carrying a large tray with a coffee pot and three cups of coffee. Hop Sing set the tray on the low table in the middle of the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Hop Sing,\u201d said Ben. He reached for the coffee pot and began pouring the coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing best cook in all of Nevada,\u201d bragged the Chinese cook. \u201cYou stay for dinner. Hop Sing make fine dinner for Mrs. Cartwright\u2019s cousin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles looked at Ben inquiringly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, you\u2019re welcome to stay for dinner,\u201d offered Ben, passing the coffee cups to Charles and Denise. His voice was polite but not enthusiastic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if it\u2019s not too much trouble, we\u2019d be delighted,\u201d Charles replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery good, very good,\u201d said Hop Sing happily. He raced back to the kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An uncomfortable silence filled the room after Hop Sing left. Ben was at a loss about what to say. Finally, he asked, \u201cWhat type of business are you in? The last I heard you were involved with\u2026\u201d Ben hesitated and glanced at Denise. \u201cinvolved with some gaming enterprises,\u201d he finished awkwardly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I did run a gambling house for many years,\u201d said Charles as he sipped his coffee. \u201cDenise knows all about that. But I\u2019ve given that up. Now I run a small import business. You know, buying items from other parts of the country and selling them in New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding, Ben turned to Denise. \u201cAre you from New Orleans also?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d answered Denise as she daintily sipped her coffee. \u201cYou have a lovely home, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d she added, obviously changing the subject. She also had a trace of a French accent. \u201cI did not expect to find such a house out here in the West.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d said Ben. \u201cIt\u2019s not as elegant as many of the homes in New Orleans, but we like it. We find it very comfortable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs Joseph around?\u201d asked Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe and his brothers should be here shortly,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cThey\u2019re moving a herd of cattle to some fresh pasture. I expect them back any time now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh, yes, I remember,\u201d said Charles with a smile. \u201cYou have two other sons. I remember that you said you already had sons when you married Marie. I have heard about you over the years, Ben. You have become a very wealthy man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been very fortunate,\u201d agreed Ben. \u201cBut my true wealth is my sons. They are fine young men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of footsteps and voices came drifting in from outside. The front door opened and Adam, Hoss and Joe walked in, an openly curious expression on each of their faces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Charles and Denise all rose to greet the young men. \u201cBoys, I\u2019m glad you\u2019re back. We have some visitors,\u201d said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe saw the buggy outside,\u201d hinted Hoss, his voice filled with curiosity. \u201cWe were wondering who was visiting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Charles Dumont, and his niece, Denise. Charles, may I present my sons, \u201c said Ben, a touch of pride in his voice. \u201cThis is Adam, my oldest.\u201d Adam nodded in acknowledgment. \u201cAnd this big fellow, we call Hoss.\u201d Hoss grinned his hello. \u201cAnd this is Joseph.\u201d Joe smiled his most charming smile at Denise. \u201cJoe, Charles is your mother\u2019s cousin, visiting from New Orleans,\u201d Ben added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he stared with open admiration at Denise\u2019s loveliness, Joe had been barely listening. However, at Ben\u2019s words, his gaze spun to Charles. \u201cMy mother\u2019s cousin?\u201d he said in wonder. \u201cI didn\u2019t know any of her family was still alive!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe lost touch over the years,\u201d explained Charles. \u201cJoseph, I am very pleased to meet you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Walking forward quickly, Joe took Charles\u2019 hand. \u201cYou have no idea how happy I am to meet you. Pa\u2019s told me what he could about my mother, but I\u2019d like to hear more. Did you grow up with her? And what\u2019s New Orleans like? Is it as terrific a city as they say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Indulgently, Ben smiled at Joe\u2019s enthusiasm. \u201cSlow down, Joe,\u201d he said with a laugh. \u201cCharles and Denise have just arrived. Give them a chance to get their breath.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reddening a bit with embarrassment, Joe said, \u201cSorry. I didn\u2019t mean to throw all those questions at you so suddenly. It\u2019s just that there\u2019s a lot I would like to know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles smiled at Joe. \u201cI understand,\u201d he replied, \u201cand I will be happy to answer your questions. Your father has been gracious enough to invite us to stay for dinner. If I don\u2019t answer all your questions at dinner, perhaps we can meet later in Virginia City. Denise and I will be staying there for awhile.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVirginia City? Why not stay here?\u201d suggested Joe. He turned to Ben. \u201cIs that all right with you, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking a bit uncomfortable, Ben cleared his throat. \u201cWell, hm, yes, of course,\u201d he agreed. \u201cYou are welcome to stay here, if you like. Of course, you may find Virginia City more comfortable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease stay,\u201d pleaded Joe. \u201cWe can make you just as comfortable as that hotel in town. It would give us a chance to really spend some time together.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s not an inconvenience\u2026.\u201d Charles started. He turned to Denise. \u201cWhat do you say, my dear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise smiled directly at Joe. \u201cI think staying here is a wonderful idea. Perhaps you can show me some more of this lovely country.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The girl\u2019s words directed Joe\u2019s attention back to Denise. His face showed he was once again struck by her beauty. \u201cI would be happy to be your escort,\u201d he offered gallantly. \u201cI can show you some of the better sights on the Ponderosa. I think you\u2019ll be impressed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s settled then, \u201c said Charles decisively. He turned to Adam and Hoss. \u201cWould you mind helping me get our bags from the buggy? I\u2019m sure Denise would like to freshen up before dinner.\u201d Nodding, Adam and Hoss followed Charles out the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Taking Denise by the arm, Joe gently guided her back to the settee. As she sat, Joe settled next to her on the small sofa. Returning to his chair, Ben frowned as he saw Joe\u2019s eyes riveted to the lovely girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you been traveling long in the West?\u201d Ben asked politely but his eyes showed a keen interest in the girl\u2019s reply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise had been smiling directly at Joe. Now she shifted her attention to Ben. \u201cA few weeks, \u201c she answered. \u201cI\u2019ve never been in the West before. The scenery is breath-taking.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Ponderosa has some pretty sights,\u201d Joe told the girl. \u201cI\u2019d be happy to show you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d said Denise with a dazzling smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The front door flew open again, and Charles, Adam and Hoss re-entered the house, each man carrying two bags. \u201cPerhaps you would be kind enough to show me where to put these,\u201d Charles said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll show you,\u201d Joe offered hastily. He took Denise\u2019s hand. \u201cPlease, come with me,\u201d he said to her. She smiled graciously as he escorted her up the stairs, followed by Charles, Adam and Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A few minutes later, Adam and Hoss descended the stairs empty-handed. Ben was still sitting in his chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe is helping them get settled,\u201d explained Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, \u201c added Hoss, grinning. \u201cHe can be down-right helpful when it comes to a pretty young gal like that Miss Denise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding, Ben turn to stare into the fire. Adam and Hoss looked at each with a frown. Adam shrugged his shoulders and turned back to Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo that\u2019s Charles Dumont,\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do you say it like that, Adam?\u201d asked Hoss with a puzzled expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs I recall, he had quite an unsavory reputation,\u201d answered Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s not say anything about that now,\u201d said Ben hastily. \u201cAfter all, it\u2019s been quite some time since we saw him. He may have changed. Let\u2019s be fair and not judge the man on his past. Besides, I don\u2019t want to spoil this for Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shrugging, Adam agreed. \u201cWhatever you say.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dinner was a lively affair. Ben asked Charles about people and places he remembered from New Orleans, and Charles told him all the news. Joe, Adam, and Hoss tried to outdo each other with stories of their adventures \u2013 and misadventures \u2013 on the ranch. In return, Charles told amusing stories about life in New Orleans.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sitting next to Joe at the dinner table, Denise said little. But she smiled at the youngest Cartwright whenever the opportunity arose. Joe could barely take his eyes off their lovely guest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Padding quietly across the room, Hop Sing came in to remove the dinner dishes. \u201cEverything all right?\u201d he asked hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, that was a wonderful dinner,\u201d Denise said graciously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, indeed,\u201d added Charles. \u201cHop Sing, I believe you\u2019re the best cook outside of New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Beaming with pleasure, Hop Sing removed the plates and other dishes from the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles, you just guaranteed yourself meals that will be fit for a king,\u201d said Adam with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, why is that?\u201d asked Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause from now on, Hop Sing will try to show you that he is a better cook than anyone in New Orleans,\u201d explained Adam. Everyone at the table laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the Cartwrights and their guests settled back in their chairs and began drinking after-dinner coffee, Joe finally tore his gaze from Denise and turned to Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell me about my mother,\u201d Joe asked in a slightly pleading voice. \u201cPa and Adam and Hoss have told me what they remember, but there\u2019s so much I don\u2019t know. Did you grow up together?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Across the room, a look of concern flashed on Ben\u2019s face. He was worried about what Charles would say. He loved Marie and knew she was a fine woman, but he also knew there were things in her past she had wanted forgotten.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh, Marie,\u201d Charles said pensively as he stirred his coffee. \u201cYes, we spent time together when we were young. Unfortunately, as we grew older, we drifted apart.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was she like?\u201d ask Joe anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe was beautiful, intelligent and gracious,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cBut she also had a quick temper. She could flare up in a moment when she was angry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we know what that\u2019s like,\u201d Hoss said with a grin. \u201cWe all know where Joe got his temper.\u201d Joe made a face at his brother, and Hoss laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember once, when she was just a girl, her father refused to let her ride a new horse he had purchased,\u201d Charles continued. \u201cShe stood in the yard and stamped her feet in anger. Her father ignored her. So Marie sat down on the front steps and vowed not to move until her father let her ride that horse. She sat there all day and most of the night. The family had to walk around her to get in and out of the house. Her father pleaded with Marie to come into the house, but she refused to move. Finally, her father gave in and gave her permission to ride the horse the next day. As soon as she had his permission, she smiled sweetly and went into the house. And rode the horse first thing the next morning. She could be stubborn when she wanted something.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnother trait Joe inherited,\u201d said Adam wryly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was she like as a girl?\u201d asked Joe, ignoring his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe didn\u2019t see each other that often,\u201d explained Charles. \u201cHolidays, family occasions, that sort of thing. I do remember when she was about eight, she received a music box for Christmas. How she loved that music box! She kept it by her bed and played it constantly. When her parents died and Marie moved to the convent to be raised by the good sisters, it was one of the few things she took with her. I can remember her clutching it in her arms as she walked into the convent.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at Ben, who nodded. \u201cYes, it\u2019s the same music box,\u201d Ben said, his voice choked with emotion. \u201cShe brought it with her to Nevada. I know how much she loved it. She said it was one of the few things she had that reminded her of the good times when she was growing up. When you were fussy as a baby, she used to play that music box while she held you. It always calmed you down and put you to sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSuch a wonderful girl,\u201d mused Charles. \u201cI am truly sorry we weren\u2019t closer. I\u2019m sorry but there\u2019s little I can tell you about her after she went to live with the sisters.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Quietly, Ben sighed with relief. Whatever secrets Marie had, he felt they were safe. Charles either didn\u2019t know or didn\u2019t want to reveal them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Yawning daintily, Denise said with a smile, \u201cYou must forgive me. It has been a long day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Instantly, Charles stood. \u201cOf course, how insensitive me. Please forgive us, but we would like to have an early evening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Politely, the Cartwrights stood as Denise rose and joined Charles. As the pair walked toward the stairs in the living room, Denise stopped and turned toward Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill you show me some of the Ponderosa tomorrow, Joe?\u201d she asked. \u201cI mean, if you have time. I don\u2019t want to take you from your work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about that, Miss Denise,\u201d Hoss answered with a grin. \u201cOur little brother is always looking for an excuse to get out of doing work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt just so happens that we\u2019re pretty well caught up,\u201d said Joe. \u201cWe\u2019ve moved the herd to the new pasture. Hoss has to check some fences tomorrow and Adam and Pa have to go over those timber contracts. So I guess that leaves me to show Denise the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTimber contracts?\u201d remarked Charles with surprise. \u201cYou handle contracts on your own?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have a lawyer in Virginia City who always looks them over, \u201c Adam explained. \u201cBut Pa and I are pretty good at reading the fine print. We\u2019ve seen enough of them over the years to be able to spot when someone is trying to sneak in something that shouldn\u2019t be there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d agreed Charles. \u201cI should have realized that. I suppose I think of the West as being the wild and unsophisticated place that the newspapers describe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re not quite the innocents that some people would believe we are,\u201d said Ben pointedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Almost absent mindedly, Charles nodded. \u201cWell, thank you for a pleasant evening,\u201d he said. Charles turned to Denise. \u201cCome, my dear, I\u2019ll escort you to your room.\u201d He took Denise\u2019s hand and led her up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a minute, Joe watched the pair depart, his facing shining with happiness. Then he turned to his father. \u201cIsn\u2019t it great that they came to visit?\u201d he asked, his voice filled with joy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d replied Ben evenly. \u201cI\u2019m happy for your sake that they are here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m going to bed,\u201d Joe announced. \u201cI want to be up bright and early tomorrow so I can clean up the buggy. I want to show Denise the Ponderosa in style.\u201d He walked rapidly across the room and bounded up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThink I\u2019ll call it a night, too,\u201d said Hoss. He strolled across the room and climbed the stairs also.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a pensive look on his face, Ben walked slowly to his favorite chair by the fireplace and sat down. A frown grew on his face as he stared into the fire. Adam sat down on the sofa. \u201cPa, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Turning a bit, Ben looked at Adam in surprise. \u201cOh, nothing is wrong, at least nothing that I know about,\u201d he answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what\u2019s bothering you?\u201d Adam persisted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u201cI guess I\u2019m easier to read than I thought, \u201c he said. His face turned serious. \u201cI just can\u2019t help wondering why Charles Dumont showed up at the Ponderosa after all these years.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think his story about being here on business is true?\u201d asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cBut I know Marie didn\u2019t like him or trust him. She never said why. She just said that he was a man she didn\u2019t care to associate with.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Adam,\u201d admitted Ben. \u201cYou saw Joe\u2019s face tonight, how happy he was that Charles was here. I can\u2019t take that away from him, not without good cause.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a problem,\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cBut there must be something we can do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust wait and watch, I guess\u201d said Ben. \u201cAnd I\u2019m going to watch Charles Dumont very carefully.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The house grew quiet as everyone settled in for the night. Denise was sitting in her dressing gown in front of a mirror, brushing her hair, when she heard a soft knock on the bedroom door. The door opened immediately, and Charles walked in. He closed the door softly behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did very well tonight,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise shrugged. \u201cIt was not difficult. They are charming and intelligent men. They are not at all the country bumpkins you led me to believe they were.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know,\u201d said Charles thoughtfully. \u201cI believe I\u2019m going to have to re-think my plan.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you going to do?\u201d asked Denise as she continued to brush her hair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d replied Charles. \u201cI need a little time to make a new plan.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about me?\u201d Denise asked. \u201cWhat should I do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou, my dear, should continue as we discussed. You shouldn\u2019t find it too difficult. Joseph is a very handsome young man. And, from what I could see, he is already quite taken with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe seems to be a nice boy,\u201d offered Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t become too fond of him,\u201d advised Charles. He reached over and took her hand, gently pulling it to him. He softly kissed her fingers. \u201cJust remember who you really are.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise stiffened slightly. \u201cI\u2019ll remember,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Giving a brief nod of satisfaction, Charles released her hand. \u201cGood night, my dear,\u201d he said softly and left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Putting the brush down, Denise frowned slightly at her image in the mirror. She was lost in thought for a moment. Then she shrugged and her face cleared. She picked up the brush and went back to brushing her hair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Breakfast the next morning was more subdued than dinner. The men chatted about the ranch and work that needed to be one. Charles seemed interested in what they had to say and asked many questions. Denise sat quietly once again, adding little to the conversation. She was dressed in a riding outfit which \u2013 in Joe\u2019s mind, at least \u2013 made her look less distant and unattainable. She continued to fix her charming smile on Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Ben, how many head of cattle do you have?\u201d asked Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis time of year, about 5,000 head,\u201d answered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut where do you sell so many cattle?\u201d Charles asked in astonishment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“We have a contract with a Chicago firm,\u201d explained Adam. \u201cThey buy the cattle and ship the beef to the big cities in the East.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, you could make a create deal of money by selling directly to restaurants and markets,\u201d Charles said, looking thoughtful. \u201cI know many in New Orleans who would be willing to pay for your beef.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have a contract,\u201d Ben repeated. \u201cBesides it\u2019s more trouble than it\u2019s worth to sell to many, many customers. It\u2019s easier for us to sell to one buyer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, of course,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cI can see with so many cattle why that would be so. But perhaps some of the smaller ranches might be interested in such a proposition.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps,\u201d agreed Ben with an air of dismissal. \u201cWell, we do have a working ranch here. Hoss, you better get to those fences. Adam, we really must go over those contracts. I believe you have other plans, Joseph,\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned at his father. \u201cI want to show Denise the Ponderosa. Hop Sing has made us a picnic lunch, so we won\u2019t need to rush back.\u201d He stood and offered his hand to Denise. She smiled at him and took his hand as she stood. The pair walked hand and hand to the front door. As he opened the door for Denise, Joe looked over his shoulder and grinned at his brothers. Then he followed Denise out the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles watched the couple leave and then turned back to Ben. \u201cJoseph is a fine young man,\u201d he said. \u201cMarie would be proud.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he is,\u201d agreed Ben with affection. He cleared his voice. \u201cWell, Charles, I\u2019m afraid we won\u2019t have much time to show you around today. We do have some work which has to be done.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot to worry, Benjamin,\u201d said Charles. \u201cI must go into Virginia City and take care of some business anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll hitch up your buggy for you,\u201d offered Hoss as he stood. \u201cI\u2019ve got to get to saddle my horse and get to those fences.\u201d He walked out the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will plan to see you a dinner,\u201d Charles said, getting to his feet. \u201cI don\u2019t know how long my business in town will keep me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding, Ben watched his guest depart. Adam looked at his father, who was staring off into the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think I should go into Virginia City with him?\u201d asked Adam in a quiet voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking a bit startled by his oldest son\u2019s voice, Ben shook his head. \u201cNo,\u201d he said. \u201cLet\u2019s get to those contracts.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he drove the buggy slowly, Joe pointed out the sights of the Ponderosa. He talked about the Ponderosa, and how his father had built the ranch through hard work and long hours. He showed Denise the pond where he sometimes fished. A flock of ducks were idly swimming in it and Denise declared her delight as they watched them for a bit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Next, Joe drove to a meadow from which they could see the large mountains of the Sierras. Denise seemed stuck by the majesty of the snow-capped peaks. She eagerly asked Joe to show her more. Joe was pleased that Denise seemed to be enjoying herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe drove the buggy to the top of a hill and stopped. \u201cLet\u2019s stretch our legs a bit,\u201d Joe suggested. \u201cThere\u2019s something I want to show you.\u201d He got out of the buggy and walked around to the other side. After offering Denise his hand and helping her out, Joe escorted her to the crest of the hill.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Below them was a magnificent sight. Large pine trees filled the hill, coloring it with green and brown. At the bottom of the hill, the dark blue waters of Lake Tahoe stood in contrast to the forest above it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise gasped. \u201cOh, Joe, it\u2019s beautiful!\u201d she exclaimed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot nearly as beautiful as you,\u201d Joe said gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Smiling at Joe, Demise answered demurely, \u201cThank you.\u201d She reached out and slowly stroked Joe\u2019s cheek with her hand. Joe\u2019s eyes shone with pleasure; he stepped closer and quickly kissed Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise stepped back in surprise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d apologized Joe hastily. \u201cI shouldn\u2019t have done that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once more, Denise smiled at him. \u201cYou\u2019re sweet,\u201d she said softly. \u201cI\u2019m glad you kissed me.\u201d Denise looked around. \u201cCould we sit for a few minutes?\u201d she asked. Joe nodded, not trusting his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe led Denise to a log a few feet away. She sat on the log, modestly pulling her skirt down while Joe settled on the ground next to her and stared up at her face. He couldn\u2019t seem to take his eyes off her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell me about yourself,\u201d Joe said. \u201cHave you always lived in New Orleans?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A shadow seemed to fall over Denise\u2019s face. She looked at the lake for a moment, then turned back to Joe with a smile. \u201cYes,\u201d she answered simply. \u201cDo you know the city?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot really,\u201d said Joe. \u201cJust what Pa has told me about it and what I\u2019ve read. I\u2019ve always wanted to go there. It must be a exciting place.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it can be exciting,\u201d replied Denise. \u201cBut also cruel.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCruel?\u201d said Joe in a puzzled voice. \u201cI don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen one has little money, and no family connections, the people there can difficult. They place great value on one\u2019s place in society. And one\u2019s place is determined by one\u2019s wealth and one\u2019s connections.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoesn\u2019t sound like the city that Pa described,\u201d said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour father is a good man. I\u2019m sure he wouldn\u2019t judge people by the cut of their clothes, or the size of their bank account,\u201d replied Denise. She gazed out at the lake again. \u201cYou are fortunate to live in such a clean and simple land.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe,\u201d said Joe doubtfully. \u201cBut sometimes I wish it was more exciting around here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise turned back to him. \u201cOne makes one\u2019s own excitement,\u201d she commented. She gazed into Joe\u2019s eyes. \u201cSometimes, all it takes is having the right person to share things with.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Almost in a daze, Joe returned Denise\u2019s look. He raised his face slowly to hers and Denise bent her head. Their lips met in a long and tender kiss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they finally parted, Joe stared longingly at Denise. \u201cI never met anyone like you,\u201d he said softly. Denise smiled back at him. She stroked his cheek again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve never met anyone quite like you,\u201d she countered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Scrambling to his knees, Joe took Denise in his arms. They kissed again, this time more passionately. When they parted again, Joe\u2019s face was filled with wonder. All he could do was looked at the lovely creature in his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally, Joe sighed. \u201cCome on,\u201d he said reluctantly. \u201cWe probably should get going.\u201d Denise looked surprised, then pleased.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d she agreed as she stood. \u201cYou\u2019re right. Perhaps you would take me closer to the lake.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rising from the log, Joe put his arm around Denise\u2019s shoulders. He guided her slowly back to the buggy and helped her in, then climbed in the other side of the buggy and picked up the reins. Joe turned to Denise and kissed her again quickly. Denise smiled at the gesture. \u201cThe lake?\u201d she reminded him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRight,\u201d Joe acquiesced with a distracted air. \u201cThe lake.\u201d He chucked the reins and the buggy started forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With an expert touch on the reins, Joe drove the buggy down a trail toward the lake. As they neared the lake, they passed through a grove of large pine trees.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe trees are so large,\u201d Denise said in wonder. \u201cThey look as if they could touch the clouds.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re big,\u201d Joe agreed. \u201cIt can take hours to cut one down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise looked surprised. \u201cYou cut them down? How sad to spoil such a lovely sight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe only cut a small portion of them,\u201d Joe explained. \u201cIt\u2019s really better for the trees that we do. It gives the ones left behind more room to grow. And Pa make sure we plant a new tree for every one we cut down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI feel a bit guilty taking you away from your work,\u201d Denise told Joe. \u201cYou must have so much to do, taking care of that large herd of cattle and all these trees.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy brothers can manage fine without me,\u201d replied Joe with a trace of bitterness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do you say it like that?\u201d Denise asked. \u201cYou sound angry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hesitated. \u201cI shouldn\u2019t, I guess,\u201d he said slowly \u201cIt\u2019s just that sometimes Adam and Hoss treat me like a kid. It\u2019s hard being the youngest sometimes. I have to keep reminding them that I\u2019m not a boy any longer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Affectionately, Denise laid her hand on Joe\u2019s arm. \u201cI don\u2019t think of you as a boy,\u201d she said softly. Joe grinned in happiness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pair rode for several minutes before Joe stopped the buggy at the end of trail, a few feet from the shore of Lake Tahoe. The waves of the lake lapped gently on the sandy shore.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Joe, what a wonderful spot!\u201d Denise exclaimed with enthusiasm. \u201cCould we have our luncheon here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Joe answered. He climbed out of the buggy and tied the reins to a nearby bush. Then he walked to the back and opened a small box attached to the rear of the buggy. He took out a blanket and a picnic basket. Joe walked to the edge of the sand and spread the blanket. He set the basket on the blanket and walked back to the buggy. \u201cYour luncheon awaits, madam,\u201d he said with a small bow, and helped Denise from the buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe and Denise settled themselves on the blanket, Denise reached in and began pulling food wrapped in napkins from the basket. \u201cHungry?\u201d she asked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d answered Joe, desire shining in his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI meant for food,\u201d chided Denise, a smile dancing in her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pair ate and drank from a bottle of wine. As they dined, they talked of small, inconsequential things. Neither paid much attention to the conversation. Both seemed to be waiting for the other to say or do something of more importance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they had eaten their fill, Denise repacked the basket and moved it to the edge of the blanket. She moved closer to Joe and began to stroke his hair gently. Joe kissed her softly. \u201cYou’re not like any of the other girls I know,\u201d he said. \u201cYou\u2019re more\u2026\u201d Joe stopped, searching for the right word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWorldly, perhaps?\u201d Denise suggested. \u201cI\u2019ve probably seen more of the world than most of the girls you know. I grew up in a French society. The French are more open about things, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cViva la France,\u201d murmured Joe as he moved closer and kissed her once again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sighing, Adam placed a sheaf of papers on the desk and looked at Ben. \u201cI guess that does it,\u201d he said with relief. \u201cWe can have the lawyer look these contracts over and, if he agrees, we can sign them next week. I think they are a fair deal for everyone concerned.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI agree,\u201d concurred Ben. He frowned as he heard the clock in the other room strike four. \u201cIt\u2019s getting late. I wonder where Joe is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t count on seeing Joe soon,\u201d commented Adam. \u201cFrom the look on his face this morning, I don\u2019t think he\u2019s going to be rushing to get Denise back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of a buggy distracted Ben. He stood and looked out the window behind the desk. \u201cCharles is back,\u201d he announced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A few minutes later, Charles strolled into the house. Ben and Adam walked over to greet him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope you had a productive day,\u201d said Ben. His voice held a hint of inquiry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, very much so,\u201d answered Charles. He looked around the room. \u201cDenise is still out?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cBut I\u2019m sure she\u2019s fine. Joe and Denise probably just lost track of the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you are right,\u201d agreed Charles. \u201cI\u2019m not concerned.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The faint sound of a buggy pulling up was again heard. A minute later, the door opened and Denise walked in, followed by Joe. Joe had a look of pure happiness on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh, there you are, my dear,\u201d said Charles. \u201cWe were just talking about you. Did you have a good time?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d answered Denise with enthusiasm. \u201cMr. Cartwright, the Ponderosa is really beautiful. You must be so proud of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise turned to Joe and smiled. \u201cThank you for a lovely day. Perhaps tomorrow you could show me some more of this wonderful country.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can count on it,\u201d answered Joe. His eyes never left Denise\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Denise, let us freshen up. I\u2019m sure dinner will be ready shortly,\u201d Charles said. He took Denise\u2019s arm and gently guided her up the stairs. Joe stared after them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cC\u2019mon, Joe,\u201d Adam offered, \u201cI\u2019ll help you put the horses up.\u201d Joe continued to gaze at the top of the stairs. \u201cJoe?\u201d Adam said a little louder. \u201cThe horses?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe seemed to shake himself awake. \u201cUm, sure, Adam,\u201d he replied in a distracted voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe and Adam went out the front door, Ben watched with concern. He knew what that look on Joe\u2019s face meant. Joe\u2019s attraction to Denise was developing into something more serious. Ben sighed. This was one of the many times he wished Marie was here. She would know what to say to Joe. He didn\u2019t. Hadn\u2019t he just the other day told Joe that he trusted him, that Joe was old enough to make his own decisions? But Ben also knew Joe wore his heart on his sleeve. It wouldn\u2019t take too much encouragement for Joe to fall in love with a charming, beautiful girl like Denise. Ben wondered how Denise felt. He didn\u2019t want to see his youngest son hurt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In her room, Denise struggling to button a dress in the back. Charles walked in, startling her. She frowned at his boldness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me help you,\u201d he offered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d she said primly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow did it go today?\u201d he asked as he buttoned the dress.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust as you wanted,\u201d Denise answered. \u201cI believe Joe is very attracted to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, good,\u201d commended Charles. He finished with the buttons and stood back to admire the lovely girl. \u201cI can understand his attraction to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles, are you sure you want to do this?\u201d asked Denise with concern. \u201cJoe is a honest, decent young man. I don\u2019t want anything to happen to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing is going to happen to him,\u201d promised Charles. \u201cI just want to make sure he does what I want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise nodded. \u201cHow was your day?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery profitable,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cI found that poker is a popular game in Virginia City. I was able to interest several wealthy men in playing with me. And, of course, I won.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d said Denise. \u201cWe best go down to dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dinner was another lively meal. Charles was even more entertaining than the evening before, telling stories of the excitement of living in New Orleans. Ben watched Joe with increasing concern. He could tell that Joe was becoming fascinated with Charles\u2019 stories. Denise added a few comments to make the stories even livelier. Joe\u2019s fascination with Denise was growing, also. Ben wanted to do something to bring his son down to earth, to see the reality of things. He knew he had to get Joe away from Charles and Denise for a while.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the conversation lagged, Ben saw his chance. \u201cJoe, I know you had plans with Denise tomorrow, but I need you to take the timber contracts to the lawyer in Virginia City. There\u2019s some things I want you to go over with him,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked displeased. \u201cCan\u2019t Adam or Hoss do that?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Ben said quickly, before Adam or Hoss could volunteer. \u201cYour brothers have other work to do. This is important. I need someone I can trust.\u201d Ben turned to Denise. \u201cI\u2019m sorry to disrupt your plans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Smiling, Denise shrugged. \u201cIt\u2019s all right. I know Joe has more important things to do than show me around.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s inner conflict showed on his face. He wanted to spend the day with Denise. But he also felt good that his father would trust him with discussing the contracts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before Joe could say anything, Charles intervened. \u201cJoe, I believe I have a solution,\u201d he offered. \u201cI need to go to Virginia City again tomorrow. Why don\u2019t Denise and I go with you. You and I can take care of our business while Denise shops. Then the three of us can have lunch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned as Joe enthusiastically agreed to Charles\u2019 suggestion. This was not what he had hoped would happen. He was trying to separate Joe from Charles and Denise, not have him spend the day with both of them. But Ben knew there was no way he could change the situation now. He sat silently as Joe eagerly made plans for the next day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The morning was clear and crisp as Joe drove the buckboard to town. Charles and Denise sat in the seats behind him, commenting on the view as they traveled. Joe felt a sense of pride as they praised the Ponderosa. As they traveled toward Virginia City, Charles began to tell Joe more stories about New Orleans and Joe listened with rapt attention as he drove. \u201cNew Orleans sounds like a really exciting place,\u201d Joe said enthusiastically. \u201cI wish I could see it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps you will some day,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cYou can come visit with Denise and me. We\u2019ll show the sights, just as you have been showing us your wonderful ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe some day,\u201d said Joe with a touch of discouragement. \u201cI don\u2019t think Pa is going to let me go to New Orleans anytime soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s too bad,\u201d Charles sympathized. \u201cI know you would enjoy it. Denise and I would love to show you around, introduce you to the people we know. I feel you would make quite an impression on them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe some day,\u201d Joe said wistfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Virginia City was its usual, calm self as they arrived in town. A few people strolled on the sidewalks as Joe drove the buckboard to the mercantile. He helped Denise out of the wagon. \u201cI\u2019m afraid that you won\u2019t find much of interest here,\u201d he apologized. \u201cWe\u2019re kind of out of touch with the latest fashions.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry,\u201d said Denise as she put a hand gently on his shoulder. \u201cI\u2019m sure I can find some things to buy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShall we meet at the hotel restaurant at noon?\u201d suggested Charles. \u201cI hear the food there is quite acceptable.\u201d They agreed to meet at the hotel, and the three went their separate ways.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe spent the next few hours with their lawyer, presenting the contracts and discussing the questions Ben and Adam had raised. Admittedly, he had to refer several times to a paper which Ben had given him, but Joe felt he had handled things well. The lawyer listened carefully, and asked Joe several questions, all of which he answered easily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the meeting was finally over, Joe hurried to the hotel. It was past twelve, and he was worried that Denise and Charles would be tired of waiting for him. When he entered the lobby, he saw Denise sitting quietly in a chair, surrounded by packages. Charles was nowhere in sight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see you managed to find a few things,\u201d Joe said with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Denise replied with a smile. \u201cYour shops are not as bare as you would have led me to believe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked around. \u201cWhere\u2019s Charles?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d answered Denise. \u201cI haven\u2019t seen him since this morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Moving quickly, Joe sat on the chair next to Denise and took her hand. \u201cWe will just have to amuse ourselves until he gets here,\u201d he said with a grin. Denise smiled back at him. The couple talked, oblivious to the people around them, and the time that was flying by. When the clock in the lobby stuck one o\u2019clock, Joe looked up with a frown. Charles was still nowhere around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe I had better go look for him,\u201d suggested Joe. \u201cSomething might have happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever you think is best,\u201d said Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt a surge of pleasure at her confidence in him. He kissed her hand lightly. \u201cI\u2019ll be back soon,\u201d he promised. Denise nodded and watched him leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In quick succession, Joe checked the bank, the telegraph office and the sheriff\u2019s office, but no one had seen Charles. He was becoming increasingly concerned as he stopped in at the mercantile and his quest was unsuccessful there also. As he passed the Silver Dollar saloon, he glanced in, then stopped. Charles was sitting at a table in the saloon, sipping a glass of whiskey; he held several cards in his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pushing open the doors, Joe walked in. He stopped a few feet from the table and watched, not wanting to interrupt the game. When Charles finally laid down his cards and collected the chips on the table, he walked up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles, we were worried about you,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Startled, Charles looked up at Joe over his shoulder. \u201cJoseph, how rude of me,\u201d Charles replied. \u201cI lost track of the time. Let me cash in and we can leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A rough looking miner sitting at the table frowned. \u201cYou can\u2019t leave,\u201d growled the man. \u201cYou have to give me a chance to win my money back. You have over a hundred dollars of mine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, another time,\u201d said Charles as he stood. \u201cI have an appointment to keep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The miner stood also. \u201cI said, you\u2019re not leaving,\u201d the man shouted angrily. \u201cI want to get my money back. I\u2019ll bet you\u2019ve been cheating!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCalm down, friend,\u201d said Joe, trying to pacify him. \u201cNo one has been cheating. You\u2019ve just had a run of bad luck.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKeep out of this, sonny,\u201d ordered the miner. \u201cThis is between him and me.\u201d The miner turned to Charles. \u201cI want my money back, and I\u2019m going to get it now,\u201d he threatened. The man started to reach for the pistol in the holster on his hip. His gun was only half out of the holster when he heard another gun being cocked. He looked up with astonishment to see Joe with a gun in his hand, pointed directly at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019d better leave that right where it is,\u201d said Joe in a commanding voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The miner hesitated then slid his gun back into the holster. Joe did the same. \u201cCome on, Charles, let\u2019s get out of here,\u201d suggested Joe. As Charles and Joe turned to leave, the miner took a few steps forward and grabbed Joe\u2019s shoulder. He spun Joe around and punched him on the jaw, knocking Joe to the ground. Joe laid stunned for a moment then quickly scrambled to his feet. He threw two short jabs into the miner\u2019s stomach. As the man bent over, Joe hit him again in the face. The miner reeled backward, falling over a chair, then crashed to the floor. Joe stood over him, fists ready, but the man laid motionless on the floor. Joe watched him for a minute, until he was convinced he would have no more trouble with the miner. Then he turned to Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go,\u201d said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right?\u201d asked Charles with concern as they walked out of the saloon and toward the hotel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grinning, Joe nodded. \u201cI\u2019m fine. That wasn\u2019t much of a fight. I\u2019ve had worse brawls with my brothers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for coming to my defense,\u201d said Charles gratefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u201cIt was nothing,\u201d he replied. \u201cBut how did you end up in there? I thought you had business to take care of?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I was curious,\u201d explained Charles. \u201cI stopped in to take a look and started talking with one of the men. Next thing I knew, I was playing poker with them. I had no idea that things would get so out of hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis isn\u2019t New Orleans,\u201d Joe advised. \u201cPeople around here are kind of rough. You\u2019d better watch yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Joseph,\u201d said Charles. \u201cI will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After meeting Denise in the lobby, Joe escorted Charles and Denise into the dinning room. During the meal, Charles told Denise about how Joe rescued him from the miner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Joe, how brave you are!\u201d exclaimed Denise in admiration.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was nothing,\u201d answered Joe modestly. \u201cThat fellow was just mad. I doubt he would have actually done anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut he hit you,\u201d said Denise. \u201cAnd even though you were hurt, you defended and protected Charles. You are truly courageous.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was nothing,\u201d repeated Joe, although Denise\u2019s obvious high regard for him raised his spirits considerably.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I agree with Denise,\u201d added Charles. \u201cHaving you around makes me feel very safe and secure. Thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Embarrassed by the praise, Joe changed the subject as they finished the meal. However, he couldn\u2019t resist taking a peek at Denise from time to time. He pleased with the respect he saw in her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After leaving the hotel, Joe loaded Denise\u2019s packages into the buckboard then helped the girl into the wagon while Charles watched almost in amusement. As the trio drove back to the ranch, Joe said, \u201cMaybe you\u2019d better not say anything to Pa about what happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut why not?\u201d asked Denise. \u201cYou are a hero. Your father will be proud.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m not so sure he will approve of me getting into a bar room fight,\u201d answered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were defending me,\u201d said Charles. \u201cThere\u2019s no dishonor in that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust the same, I think it would be best not to bring it up,\u201d Joe insisted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d agreed Charles. \u201cBut I must say again, you are quite a young man. I\u2019m sorry I won\u2019t have a chance to introduce you to my friends in New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, maybe some day,\u201d Joe said, dismissing Charles\u2019 comment. Charles looked at him thoughtfully as they rode.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they returned to the ranch, Charles and Denise went to the house while Joe stabled the horses. Sitting at his desk, Ben looked up as his guests walked in. He noted the packages that Charles was carrying. \u201cWell, it looks like you had a productive day,\u201d Ben said politely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, very productive,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cDenise found a few things she needed in town. If you\u2019ll excuse us, I will take them to her room.\u201d Ben nodded as Charles and Denise climbed the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A moment later, Joe walked into the house and strolled over to the desk where Ben was sitting. \u201cThe lawyer said he thought the contracts were okay,\u201d declared Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Seeing a red mark on Joe\u2019s chin that was turning into a bruise, Ben frowned. \u201cWhat happened to you?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rubbing his chin self-consciously, Joe answered quickly, \u201cNothing. Just bumped myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had seen the results of too many fights not to recognize the marks of a fist. But Joe obviously didn\u2019t want to tell him what had happened. Ben didn\u2019t like the fact that Joe was keeping something from him. He wondered if Charles had anything to do with Joe getting bruised. He suspected Charles had played some part.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

However, Ben simply sighed and didn\u2019t pursue the matter further. \u201cWell, what exactly did the lawyer say,\u201d Ben asked as Joe sat down in the chair next to the desk. The two began discussing the contracts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Upstairs, Charles had followed Denise into her room. He placed the packages on the bed. \u201cWhatever did you find to buy in this backwater little town?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA few outfits which look better on a ranch than the clothes I brought,\u201d answered Denise. \u201cI thought that Joe might like it if I fit in a little better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood idea,\u201d said Charles. He turned to leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles,\u201d called Denise as he reached the door. \u201cWhat really happened in town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Near the door, Charles stopped. \u201cNothing much,\u201d he answered. \u201cSome ruffian accused me of cheating and Joe gallantly came to my defense.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWere you cheating?\u201d asked Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would have, if needed, but it wasn\u2019t necessary, my dear,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cFortunately, the men in Virginia City are very bad poker players. I won playing an honest game. Quite an experience, really.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if Joe had been hurt?\u201d said Denise with concern. \u201cI mean, that might have caused some difficulties with your plans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo need to worry,\u201d Charles assured the girl. \u201cJoe had the situation perfectly under control.<\/p>\n

Besides, if he had needed it, I would have helped him with this.\u201d Charles twisted his arm slightly, and a long, thin knife slide into his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise frowned. \u201cAre you still wearing that thing? I hate it. It\u2019s so wicked looking. I wish you would get rid of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt pays to have protection, especially out here in the West,\u201d replied Charles. \u201cBesides, it\u2019s a handy little item. You never know when you might need it.\u201d Charles slid the knife up his sleeve. \u201cI\u2019ll see you at dinner.\u201d He kissed Denise lightly on the cheek. \u201cI miss you,\u201d he added softly, then left the room. Denise stared at the door as it closed behind him, her face full of confusion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dinner was a fairly subdued meal. Charles seemed to have run out of stories to tell and chatted in a disinterested tone. Denise and Joe ignored everyone except each other while Adam and Hoss exchanged amused glances from time to time as they watched their brother. Ben said little. His misgivings about the situation were continuing to grow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As soon as possible, Joe and Denise left the table for a walk in the moonlight. Charles observed them leave, an amused smile on his face. Then he turned to Ben. \u201cThey are quite an attractive couple,\u201d he said. Ben said nothing. \u201cIt\u2019s a shame we are going to have to leave soon,\u201d continued Charles. \u201cI believe Denise is going to miss your son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re leaving?\u201d said Ben in surprise. \u201cWhen?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn a few days,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cI\u2019ve already stayed longer than I planned. But I\u2019ve had a pleasant time, and I know Denise is enjoying herself. Unfortunately, my business requires me to return to New Orleans soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve enjoyed having you here,\u201d said Adam politely. He looked pointedly at Ben who simply sipped his coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. Well, it\u2019s been a long day,\u201d replied Charles. \u201cI believe I will go up to my room. I know Denise will be safe with Joseph.\u201d Charles stood and nodded his goodnights, then left the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“You ought to be pleased, Pa,\u201d said Adam after Charles had left. \u201cOur guests are leaving soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose so,\u201d observed Ben. \u201cBut I can\u2019t help wondering why they are really here. I find it hard to believe that Charles merely wanted to meet Joe. There\u2019s got to be something more to it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Pa, he ain\u2019t said or done anything unusual,\u201d said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“I know, I know,\u201d agreed Ben. \u201cBut I\u2019m still uncomfortable with this situation. I\u2019ll be very glad when they are gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the moonlight, Joe and Denise walked hand in hand. As they reached the meadow next to the house, Joe pulled Denise gently to the ground. He leaned back against a boulder and Denise laid her head on his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou look lovely tonight,\u201d murmured Joe as he kissed Denise lightly on the forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled up at him. She was wearing one of the dresses she had purchased in Virginia City. \u201cYou\u2019re kind,\u201d she said. \u201cThis dress is very comfortable. It\u2019s nice not to have to worry about whether one is wearing the correct clothes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWearing the correct clothes?\u201d asked Joe in puzzlement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn New Orleans, one is judged by the clothes one wears,\u201d explained Denise. \u201cClothes, manners, associates\u2026all this is very important in New Orleans society.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSounds kind of silly,\u201d remarked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d replied Denise. \u201cWhen you look at it from out here, where life is simpler, it does seem trivial. It is a bit of a relief not to worry so much about the clothes one wears.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would like you if you were wearing no clothes,\u201d Joe said with a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Joe, you\u2019re so wicked!\u201d Denise admonished him in mock shock. She smiled at him invitingly. Joe leaned over and kissed her. His hand stroked her hair. He was mildly surprised to feel Denise\u2019s hand running through his hair and pulling him closer. When they separated, Joe looked at her with desire in her eyes. Then, determination crossed his face. \u201cCome on,\u201d he said with a sigh as he stood and helped Denise to her feet. \u201cWe\u2019d better go back before we do something we\u2019ll both regret.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Astonishment filled Denise\u2019s face, and this time, she was not pretending. Her face softened. \u201cJoe,\u201d she said, \u201cYou are the most unusual man I\u2019ve ever met.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled. \u201cI hope that\u2019s a good thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is a good thing, a very good thing,\u201d Denise assured him earnestly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Despite Ben\u2019s efforts to keep Joe away from Charles and Denise, Joe spent a lot of time with the pair over the next two days. He quickly finished every job that Ben found for him, and then raced off to be with Denise. He claimed he was showing Denise the countryside, but Ben noticed the horse that pulled the buggy showed little sign of being driven. The more Ben tried to distract Joe, the more Joe was attracted to Denise. Ben was thankful when Charles told him that the pair was leaving in two days. Ben felt sure that once Denise was gone, Joe would come back down to earth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was reading in his chair by the fire during the afternoon, taking a welcome break from a long day of work. Charles strolled down the stairs, and sat on the sofa near Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBenjamin, we will be leaving tomorrow,\u201d announced Charles. \u201cI\u2019ve made arrangement to take the stage to San Francisco, and then a ship to New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you told Joe?\u201d asked Ben. \u201cI know he will be sorry to see you leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I would let Denise tell him,\u201d replied Charles. \u201cI thought perhaps she could ease the disappointment of our leaving better than I could.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHm, well, yes,\u201d said Ben hesitantly. He had a feeling that nothing was going to make this departure easy for Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have a feeling that you will not be unhappy to see us leave,\u201d Charles commented pointedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before Ben could reply, Joe came bursting into the house, a look of dismay on his face. \u201cDenise tells me you are leaving tomorrow,\u201d Joe said to Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m afraid we must go,\u201d answered Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t go yet,\u201d demanded Joe. \u201cYou have to stay longer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Joseph, but we must get back to New Orleans,\u201d Charles replied. \u201cWe have had a pleasant visit, but business demands our return.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked to Ben, who had said nothing, and then back to Charles. Joe seemed to be making up his mind about something. Finally, he declared, \u201cI want to ask Denise to marry me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat!\u201d said Ben. \u201cJoe, you barely know her. How can you talk about marrying her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I love her,\u201d Joe insisted. \u201cI love her more than I can say. I know I can make her happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026\u201d Ben started to say, but his son interrupted him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, my mind is made up. I\u2019m old enough to make my own decisions,\u201d Joe said firmly. \u201cYou\u2019ve told me that. I\u2019ve decided to ask Denise to marry me.\u201d Joe turned to Charles. \u201cDo we have your blessing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid not,\u201d Charles answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his eyes in surprise. He was sure that Charles had planned to have Denise marry Joe in order to somehow share in the wealth of the Ponderosa. He was astonished to hear Charles deny Joe\u2019s request.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t need your blessing,\u201d stated Joe angrily. \u201cDenise and I both are old enough to do what we want. We\u2019ll get married no matter what you say.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid that Denise won\u2019t marry you without my approval,\u201d said Charles. \u201cShe has always been an obedient and thoughtful girl. To marry you without my approval is something she wouldn\u2019t even consider.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A look of despair clouded Joe\u2019s face. \u201cPlease, Charles,\u201d he pleaded. \u201cLet me ask Denise to be my wife.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you don\u2019t understand,\u201d replied Charles. \u201cI\u2019m not forbidding you to court Denise. But I know how the first flush of love can feel. Everything is wonderful. There are no problems, no barriers which can not be overcome. Only after time does reality set in, and the real obstacles emerge.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben listened with amazement. He would have never guessed Charles would take his side on such a matter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou and Denise need time to get to know each other, to let reality set in,\u201d continued Charles. \u201cIf you had a few months together, and still felt the same way, I would willingly give my blessing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles is right,\u201d said Ben. \u201cYou need to give love time to grow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut there is no time,\u201d insisted Joe. \u201cDenise is leaving tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you two truly love each other, time and distance won\u2019t diminish your feelings,\u201d Ben assured his son..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you don\u2019t understand,\u201d Joe said angrily. \u201cOnce she goes back to New Orleans, things won\u2019t be the same. I\u2019ll lose her; I know I will.\u201d Joe turned and stalked out of the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Turning to Charles, Ben said, \u201cThank you. I confess I\u2019m surprised that you agreed with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have only Joe and Denise\u2019s best interests at heart,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cHowever, I must think about this situation. Perhaps there is a solution.\u201d Charles stood and walked to the stairs. He stopped at the bottom and turned to Ben. \u201cLet me talk with Denise. I must take her feelings into account also.\u201d Charles climbed the stairs to his room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s face darkened. While he was pleased with the way Charles handled Joe\u2019s outburst, he had a feeling that something more was going to happen. He couldn\u2019t quite figure out what it was, but he knew he wasn\u2019t going to like it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles lay on the bed in his room when there was a knock on the door. Getting up slowly, he opened the door and saw Denise standing in the hallway. She looked troubled and confused. \u201cMr. Cartwright said you wanted to talk with me,\u201d she said, entering the room. \u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy dear, you should be grateful to me,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cI just rescued you from being married to Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMarried?\u201d she said in surprise. \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph wanted to ask you to marry him. I told him no. I just rescued you from a life of barn dances, church socials and a boring life on this ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd a man who loves and respects me,\u201d added Denise wistfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor now, yes. But what will happen when he finds out the truth about you?\u201d asked Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou would tell him?\u201d asked Denise with alarm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cBut the truth would come out somehow. It always does. The love in his eyes would turn to hate, the respect would turn to loathing. I couldn\u2019t let you go through that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose you are right,\u201d agreed Denise, her voice filled with disappointment. \u201cFor a moment, I had a picture of a normal, happy life. I should have known it couldn\u2019t happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t despair, my dear,\u201d said Charles. \u201cOnce our task is completed, you and I shall have a happy life. You can have anything you wish. I promise you that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise sighed. \u201cAll right. What happens now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow I put my plan into action,\u201d Charles told the girl. \u201cAll you have to do is agree with me. Whatever I say or do, you will support me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At dinner that evening, Joe was the picture of misery. Every time he looked at Denise, his heart seemed to break. Adam and Hoss tried to make conversation but Joe ignored them. Ben felt sympathy for his son, but also felt the decision to block the marriage was a wise one. He only wished he could make Joe understand that.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After an almost silent dinner, the Cartwrights and their guests moved into the living room. An awkward silence filled that room, also. Finally, Charles cleared his throat and stood.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have been thinking about our little problem,\u201d he announced, \u201cAnd I believe I have a solution.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at him in surprise. In his mind, there was no solution to the problem except to let him marry Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what is your solution?\u201d asked Ben warily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI believe the answer is for Joe to return to New Orleans with Denise and me,\u201d stated Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d shouted Ben. \u201cYou can\u2019t be serious.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s part of the Ponderosa,\u201d added Adam. \u201cYou can\u2019t take him away from here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow hear me out,\u201d said Charles hastily. \u201cI have been exploring the possibility of shipping beef directly to outlets in New Orleans. I think it can be a good business. Joe can help me get it organized. He knows cattle, and how the ranching end of it works. I can deal with the restaurants and hotels in New Orleans. Joe can come to New Orleans with me, help me build the business. I would venture that he would eventually run it for me. At the same time, he and Denise can get to know each other better. If their feelings remain unchanged, then I can approve of their marriage.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise was sitting next to Joe on the sofa. She turned to him, and grabbed his arm. \u201cJoe, isn\u2019t this a wonderful idea!\u201d she exclaimed enthusiastically. \u201cI can show you so much of New Orleans. And we will be together.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat stunned. He didn\u2019t know what to say. He had never thought about leaving the Ponderosa. Now he was being offered a chance to visit New Orleans, a city he had dreamed about, and with a girl he loved. But at the same time, it meant leaving his home, and his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles, this is a ridiculous idea,\u201d said Ben angrily. \u201cI won\u2019t have you breaking up my family. I won\u2019t allow it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI believe Joseph is old enough to make such a decision for himself,\u201d replied Charles, unfazed by Ben\u2019s anger. \u201cAnd think of how good it would be for him. I can introduce him to the right people in New Orleans, to the society there.\u201d He turned to Joe with an apologetic look. \u201cIt would help smooth off some of the rough edges, so to speak. He could become the polished, worldly young man I know he has the potential to be.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you ain\u2019t said anything,\u201d said Hoss with a worried face. \u201cWhat do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Still stunned, Joe shook his head. \u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d he answered slowly. \u201cI hadn\u2019t thought about leaving. I need a little time to sort this out in my mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, of course,\u201d said Charles. \u201cI know I\u2019ve sprung a rather unsettling idea on you. Denise and I will delay our departure for a day or two while you think it over. But I hope you will accept my offer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, so do I,\u201d added Denise with a dazzling smile. \u201cJoe, it could be so wonderful. Please say you will come.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDenise and I will say our goodnights, now,\u201d said Charles before Joe could reply. He offered his hand to the young woman. Denise turned to Joe and kissed him lightly on the cheek, then took Charles\u2019 hand. The pair walked slowly up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Cartwrights sat in stunned silence after Charles and Denise had gone. No one seemed to know what to say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you can\u2019t be seriously considering accepting Charles\u2019 offer,\u201d Adam finally stated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Adam,\u201d answered Joe. \u201cI need to think on it for awhile.\u201d He looked at Ben and saw the pain on his father\u2019s face. \u201cPa, I don\u2019t want to hurt you,\u201d he added. \u201cBut I really need to think about this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u201cI understand, son,\u201d he said, his voice choked with emotion. \u201cYou\u2026you think on it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Joe replied gratefully. He stood. \u201cThink I\u2019ll take a walk.\u201d Joe turned and walked out the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you aren\u2019t going to let Joe go?\u201d said Hoss with concern.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see how we can stop him,\u201d answered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Pa, going to New Orleans? With Charles and Denise? I think it\u2019s a bad idea,\u201d argued Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI agree,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cBut if we tell Joe he can\u2019t go, it will only make him want to go. He has to decide for himself. We can\u2019t force him to do what we want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise had maintained her calm and happy expression until she and Charles reached her room. At the door, she looked quickly over her shoulder to be sure no one had followed them. Assured that they were alone, she grabbed Charles\u2019 arm and pulled him into her room. Her face showed a look of panic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles, what are you thinking?\u201d she cried in alarm. \u201cJoe can\u2019t go back to New Orleans with us. As soon as he gets there, he\u2019ll learn the truth about us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCalm down, my dear, calm down,\u201d said Charles reassuringly. \u201cI have no intention of allowing Joe to return to New Orleans with us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I don\u2019t understand,\u201d said Denise with a frown. \u201cWhat was all that talk about downstairs?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need to get Joe away from his family in order to get him to sign that paper,\u201d replied Charles. \u201cBen and Adam are obviously too sharp to let him sign anything without their reading it first. And if they read the paper, they\u2019ll liable to figure out what it truly means. I can\u2019t take that chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you plan to do?\u201d Denise asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s simple. We must persuade Joe to accompany us back to New Orleans. Along the way, I\u2019ll find an excuse to have him sign the paper. Once the paper is signed, we no longer need him. We can get rid of him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet rid of him?\u201d exclaimed Denise in alarm. \u201cWhat do you mean by that? You aren\u2019t going to hurt him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not,\u201d Charles answered quickly. \u201cI simply meant we would find a reason to send him home. A lover\u2019s quarrel, perhaps. But I\u2019m counting on you to persuade him to accompany us. Denise, it is very important to our future that you succeed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise stared at Charles, then slowly nodded. \u201cAll right,\u201d she agreed. \u201cAs long you promise me that nothing will happen to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI believe you are growing fond of the boy,\u201d Charles remarked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a fine, decent young man,\u201d said Denise. \u201cI feel bad enough about what we are doing. I want your word, Charles. Promise me you will not harm Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles sighed. \u201cI promise you\u2026.nothing will happen to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

*************<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was late when Joe returned to the house. He had spent a long time walking and thinking about Charles\u2019 suggestion. The thought of going to New Orleans and his growing love for Denise made Charles\u2019 plan very attractive. But every time he thought of leaving the Ponderosa and his family, he felt a great sadness. He had pondered the problem for a long time, but was no closer to a decision. Finally, he decided to sleep on it. Perhaps things would be clearer in the morning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The house was dark and quiet when Joe walked in the front door. However, Joe was surprised to see his father still up. Ben was standing near the fireplace, staring into the flames.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I thought you\u2019d be in bed by now,\u201d said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned to Joe. \u201cI wanted to talked with you,\u201d he answered solemnly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u201cPa, I know what you are going to say\u2026.\u201d Joe started.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t think you do,\u201d interrupted Ben. Joe looked at him in surprise. Ben walked to his favorite chair and sat down. \u201cJoe, sit down for a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hesitated then walked over to the sofa and sat down. He waited with a wary look on his face to hear what Ben had to say. Joe guessed his father was going to try to persuade him to stay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I know that Charles\u2019 plan about going to New Orleans sounds very attractive,\u201d Ben stated. \u201cBut I want you to think about it very carefully before you decide anything. The Ponderosa is your home. Your future is here. Your family is here. Do you really want to leave all this to go off to a unknown place with people who are virtual strangers?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you left home to come out West and start a new life,\u201d replied Joe. \u201cYou had a dream to build the Ponderosa, and you succeeded. Why shouldn\u2019t I have the same chance?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat was different,\u201d countered Ben. \u201cAfter Adam\u2019s mother died, there was nothing for me in New England. I wanted to go some place where I could start over, some place where I could build something to give my son. There\u2019s no reason for you to leave. You have something here already to build on, to leave to your children when the time comes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Pa, what if I want to strike out on my own?\u201d asked Joe. \u201cWhat if I want to see if I can build something from nothing like you did. Charles is offering me a chance to do that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I can understand your wanting to do something on your own,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cBut I just don\u2019t think that this is the right way to do it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u201cI knew you would disapprove,\u201d he said. \u201cYou still think of me as just a boy, not a grown man like Adam or Hoss. If they wanted to leave, you wouldn\u2019t stop them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re wrong, Joe,\u201d Ben told his son. \u201cOn both counts. I know you\u2019re a man. And I\u2019m not going to try and stop you, if this is what you really want. The decision is up to you. All I\u2019m asking is you think about it very carefully before you decide anything. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father in surprise. \u201cYou mean it?\u201d he asked. \u201cIf I decide to go, you won\u2019t stop me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t stop you,\u201d agreed Ben. \u201cBut I would miss you. Adam and Hoss would miss you. And I think you would miss us and the Ponderosa. But, as I said, the decision is yours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a hard decision, Pa,\u201d Joe said, shaking his head. \u201cI love Denise and I don\u2019t want to lose her. Going to New Orleans would give me the chance to get her to agree to marry me. And I could show her how I can do something on my own. But you\u2019re right. I would miss you and Adam and Hoss. I just don\u2019t know what to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Gently, Ben laid a hand on his son\u2019s shoulder. \u201cI know, Joe,\u201d he acknowledged in an understanding voice. \u201cJust do what I ask and think about it long and hard before you decide anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will, I promise,\u201d Joe said, nodding his head. He smiled. \u201cI think I\u2019ll go up to bed. Are you coming?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I think I\u2019ll stay down here awhile,\u201d answered Ben. He watched as Joe climbed the stairs to his room. Ben sighed. He hoped he had said the right things. He knew if he had argued with Joe, Joe\u2019s stubborn steak would have come out, and his youngest son would have gone to New Orleans no matter what he said. And Ben had meant what he said. He had to let Joe decide this for himself. He only hoped Joe\u2019s decision \u2013 whatever it was \u2013 would turn out to be the right one for his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

*************<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Breakfast the next morning was a quiet meal. Charles had skipped breakfast, leaving a note saying that he was going to Virginia City to make the changes in his travel arrangements. Ben suspected that Charles knew that facing him in the morning would be unpleasant, and had avoided a potentially ugly confrontation. Nevertheless, Ben still intended to have a private talk with Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

During the meal, Adam and Hoss seemed at a loss for words. Both looked at Joe for some sign of what he was thinking, but all they could see was confusion on their younger brother\u2019s face. Neither knew how to bring up the subject of Joe\u2019s leaving, particularly with Denise sitting at the table next to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise also said little during breakfast, although she frequently smiled encouragingly at Joe. Joe returned her smiles with a distracted air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the meal was completed, Denise turned to Joe and said with a smile, \u201cWould you take me for a walk? Our remaining time here is so short. I want to see the Ponderosa again so I will be sure to remember it when I leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Adam and Hoss frowned at Denise\u2019s suggestion. All three were sure she was going to try to pressure Joe to accept Charles\u2019 invitation. However, before anyone could say anything, Joe nodded and stood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Joe answered in a distracted voice. \u201cA walk is a good idea.\u201d He took Denise\u2019s hand and led her from the table.
\n\u201cDoggone it, Pa\u201d, said Hoss after the pair left. \u201cAre you just going to sit there and let that gal talk Joe into leaving?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, what do you want me to do?\u201d asked Ben. \u201cHog-tie Joe and keep him in his room until Denise leaves?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat ain\u2019t a bad idea,\u201d muttered Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s right,\u201d stated Adam. \u201cWe can\u2019t keep Denise from talking with Joe. Besides, I think we should let her have her say. Once she\u2019s done, maybe we can talk with him. We should be able to point out a few facts of life to our youngest brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam, I don\u2019t want you two arguing with Joe,\u201d said Ben, his voice filled with warning. \u201cI told Joe it\u2019s his decision and I meant it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Pa,\u201d replied Adam. \u201cBut he should know how Hoss and I feel before he makes up his mind. This is too important to let him decide without knowing what we think.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d agreed Ben. \u201cYou can tell him what you think. But don\u2019t pressure Joe. This is hard enough on him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Pa,\u201d said Adam in a reassuring voice. \u201cWe\u2019re just going to let him know we want him to stay.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d added Hoss. \u201cWe\u2019re just going to talk. But we\u2019re going to make sure our little brother listens.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

**************<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the crisp Nevada air, Joe and Denise walked for awhile in silence. Joe\u2019s was still turning over Charles\u2019 proposal in his mind. He kept thinking about the pro\u2019s and cons of going to New Orleans. Joe wasn\u2019t any closer to a decision.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCheri, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d asked Denise in a soft voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled at her. \u201cWhen I\u2019m with you, nothing is wrong,\u201d he answered gallantly. Then Joe grew serious. \u201cBut I\u2019m just not sure what to do. I want to be with you. I can\u2019t imagine being without you. But it\u2019s also hard to think about leaving the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d sympathized Denise. She stopped and looked at Joe; her face was full of understanding. She softly stroked Joe\u2019s cheek. \u201cI want to be with you. But I can\u2019t stay here without Charles\u2019 blessing. I just can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I understand that,\u201d Joe said. \u201cHe\u2019s family. And family is important. Pa must have told me that a thousand times. That\u2019s what makes the thought of leaving here so hard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise nodded understandingly. \u201cI wish I could help you. It must be a difficult decision. But, Joe, think about us. We could be together. New Orleans is a wonderful city, and you would enjoy it so much. WE would enjoy it so much. Remember what I said about how wonderful anything can be if you share it with the right person? I want to share New Orleans with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know you do,\u201d said Joe. \u201cAnd that doesn\u2019t make things any easier.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Slowly, Denise ran her fingers through Joe\u2019s hair. \u201cMaybe this will help you decide,\u201d she murmured and kissed him. Her kiss was full of passion and surprised Joe. She pulled him closer to her and kissed him even more passionately. She began to nuzzle his neck with her mouth and tongue, and her hands stroked his back lightly. Joe kissed her shoulder and neck in return as he held her tightly. Suddenly, Joe pushed Denise away. She stared at him in astonishment. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong,\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing,\u201d Joe said, his voice full of emotion. \u201cI want you more than I\u2019ve wanted anything in my life. But not this way. It\u2019s not right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a moment, Denise gazed at Joe in amazement. Then her face suddenly softened. \u201cYou\u2019re right, of course. I\u2019m afraid I got carried away,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s just the thought of never seeing you again\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t say that,\u201d pleaded Joe. \u201cWe\u2019ll be together, I swear. I\u2019ll convince Charles somehow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you must come with us,\u201d Denise insisted. \u201cThat\u2019s the only way you\u2019ll convince Charles to let me marry you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Joe said miserably. \u201cWhen I\u2019m with you, I can\u2019t think straight. All I can think of is you.\u201d Joe\u2019s face was full of confusion. \u201cI need some time alone.\u201d He turned his back to Denise and walked off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As she watched Joe walked away, Denise felt a sense of shame about what she was doing. She wished Charles was here to tell her again why she must do this. She was beginning to hate Charles and his plan. Denise watched Joe for a few more moments, then turned and walked back toward the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was sitting under a tree, idly picking at the grass, when Hoss walked up. He turned in surprise when he saw his big brother\u2019s big shadow. He hadn\u2019t heard Hoss approaching.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Denise told me you were out here. Can I talk to you for a minute, little brother,\u201d said Hoss sitting down next to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d agreed Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now that he had found Joe, Hoss didn\u2019t seem to know how to begin. The two sat is silence for several minutes staring at the scenery in front of them. They were sitting on the edge of a green meadow. A small brook ran through the meadow, and the water flowed lazily over the rocks in the brook. Yellow and white wild flowers poked through the meadow\u2019s grass. In the distance, the outline of the mountains, their snow-capped peaks barely visible, filled the horizon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis sure is a pretty spot,\u201d Hoss said finally. Joe nodded in agreement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t see anything like this in a city like New Orleans,\u201d Hoss continued.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I won\u2019t,\u201d Joe agreed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, why the heck are you thinking about leaving?\u201d asked Hoss. \u201cI mean, what could you possibly want that you can\u2019t find here on the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s complicated, Hoss,\u201d answered Joe. \u201cI don\u2019t think you would understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTry me,\u201d suggested Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u201cI\u2019m not sure I can explain it. If I go to New Orleans, I\u2019ll have to chance to be my own man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can be your own man right here,\u201d asserted Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe,\u201d said Joe. \u201cBut it\u2019s not easy with you, and Adam and Pa always around. Here, I\u2019m always just one of the Cartwrights, and the youngest one at that. I\u2019m not Joe Cartwright. I\u2019m just the little brother who gets to help out from time to time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I thought we sorted that all out,\u201d replied Hoss. \u201cAdam and I apologized for what we done.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know you did,\u201d Joe assured his brother. \u201cAnd I know you meant it at the time. But how long will it be before you forget again? And how long will I have to wait until I\u2019m taken seriously around here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe take you serious,\u201d protested Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you don\u2019t, not really,\u201d answered Joe. He sat up and turned to Hoss. \u201cDon\u2019t you see, if I go to New Orleans, I can help Charles build his business. He wants my advice and he\u2019ll listen to me. And I won\u2019t be just one of the Cartwrights. People will get to know me, Joe Cartwright. They won\u2019t be looking to see if Pa or Adam or you are standing behind me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, are you sure this ain\u2019t just about Miss Denise?\u201d asked Hoss. \u201cI know you got strong feelings for her. But if she really loved you, she wouldn\u2019t be making you decide between her and us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Hoss,\u201d admitted Joe. \u201cShe\u2019s part of it, sure. And I do love her. But if she stayed here, she would have to give up her world for mine. I don\u2019t know if I can ask her to do that. Not without really knowing what I\u2019m asking her to give up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at his brother in surprise. \u201cI thought you were thinking about leaving just because of a pretty face. But it\u2019s more than that, isn\u2019t it,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u201cYes, it\u2019s more than that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s right,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cYou\u2019re the one who\u2019s got to decide what to do. None of us can decide for you. I don\u2019t want you to leave, but you got decide that. Just remember, Joe, you\u2019ll always be my brother, no matter where you are or what you do. That\u2019ll never change. Ol\u2019 Hoss will always be there for you if you need me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The hint of tears showed in Joe\u2019s eyes. \u201cThanks,\u201d he answered, his voice strained with emotion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss patted his brother on the shoulder. \u201cI\u2019ll leave you to your thinking,\u201d he said. Hoss stood and walked slowly away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned back to look at the meadow. He shook his head. The decision wasn\u2019t getting any easier to make.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat at his desk, shuffling papers but not really reading them. He kept thinking of Joe. He wished his youngest son was not faced with this dilemma. He wished even more than Joe would decide to stay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sighing, Ben stacked the papers in front of him. He tried to work, but he couldn\u2019t concentrate. He heard a buggy pull up to the house and stood to look out the window. A grim expression emerged on his face as he saw Charles leave the buggy and walk toward the house. Charles entered the house and walked toward the stairs. As he reached the bottom of the stairs, Ben called to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles,\u201d called Ben in an angry voice. \u201cI want to talk with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A flicker of concern crossed Charles\u2019 face, then he smiled. \u201cOf course,\u201d said Charles. \u201cWhat do you want to talk about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want to know what game you are playing with my son,\u201d demanded Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGame? I don\u2019t know what you are talking about,\u201d replied Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I think you do,\u201d said Ben. \u201cYou show up here after 25 years and want to spend time with your cousin Marie\u2019s son. What brought on this sudden concern? And why are you trying to lure him to New Orleans?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I assure you that everything I\u2019ve said or done is just as it seems,\u201d Charles answered firmly. \u201cI had to be out here on business. I decided that it would be an opportunity to visit, that\u2019s all. I had no idea that something would blossom between Joe and Denise. My suggestion that he return with us is the only possible solution to a potential problem.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re trying to break up my family,\u201d shouted Ben. \u201cI won\u2019t have it. Whatever you’re trying to do, I want you to call it off. Now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs I said, there\u2019s nothing to call off. I have given Joe a chance to come to New Orleans with me. He can either come or not. The decision is his,\u201d said Charles. He bowed slightly. \u201cNow if you will excuse me\u2026.\u201d He turned and walked rapidly up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the top of the stairs, out of Ben\u2019s sight, Charles stopped. He could feel the sweat beading on his forehead. The confrontation with Ben disturbed him; in fact, if he was forced to admit it, it frightened him a bit. Charles was determined to leave as soon as possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he walked to his room, he glanced into Denise\u2019s room then stopped. He was surprised to see Denise sitting at the dressing table in her room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you doing here?\u201d he demanded. \u201cI thought you would be with Joe, convincing him to come with us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was with him,\u201d Denise replied. \u201cBut he wanted to be alone to think.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m disappointed in you, my dear,\u201d said Charles. \u201cI thought by now you would have him in the palm of your hand. A hot-blooded young man like Joe and a beautiful young woman like you, well, a little seduction should be no problem.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise bit her lip. \u201cI did try to seduce him,\u201d she admitted. \u201cBut Joe has a very strong sense of right and honor. He refused to give in to his feelings for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lifting an eyebrow in surprise, Charles said, \u201cHe refused you? He\u2019s quite a remarkable young man. I\u2019m almost tempted to allow him to come to New Orleans with us. Marie, his mother, always snubbed me, always let me know she disapproved of me. It would be amusing to lead her son into the low life she so disdained. I\u2019m sure I could do it. A few months, and even Ben Cartwright would be disgusted with his son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles! No!\u201d cried Denise. \u201cJoe\u2019s a good man. You can\u2019t do that. You can\u2019t make him into\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cInto me?\u201d finished Charles with a smile. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, my dear. I was just amusing myself. The plan will remain unchanged. Joe will never get to New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles, I\u2019m beginning to have second thoughts about this,\u201d said Denise in a hesitant voice. \u201cI think we should forget the whole idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cForget it?\u201d replied Charles in an angry voice. \u201cAfter all I\u2019ve had to do to get this far. You know what is at stake. You know the rewards that you will share if we get what we came after. How can you even think of not continuing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know what\u2019s at stake,\u201d Denise said. \u201cBut that was before I knew Joe, before I knew the Cartwrights. They are good, decent people. I hate what we are doing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHate it all you want,\u201d snarled Charles. \u201cBut do what I tell you. If you don\u2019t, I can assure you the consequences will be quite unpleasant. Quite unpleasant,\u201d Charles finished in a threatening voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise looked frightened. She knew Charles was capable of almost anything. \u201cAll right,\u201d she agreed in a quaking voice. \u201cI\u2019ll do what you want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, good,\u201d said Charles in a soothing voice. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, my dear. Everything will turn out as we planned. And then we can lead the life you and I talked about. Now, get into your prettiest gown. We\u2019re going to tell Joe that we are leaving tomorrow. He must make up his mind now. The longer we delay, the less likely he will agree to accompany us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe spent most of the day riding around the Ponderosa. As he rode, he tried to sort out in his mind what he really wanted. The problem was that the more he thought about it, the more he was unsure about what to do. The hours in the saddle brought him no answers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was mid-afternoon when Joe finally returned to the ranch house. He dismounted and led his horse into the barn. He took his time unsaddling and brushing his horse. He was reluctant to go into the house. He knew everyone was waiting for his decision. And he didn\u2019t have one yet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe worked, Adam walked into the barn. He came over to the stall where Joe was brushing his pinto. \u201cJoe, got a minute?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up. \u201cWhat do you want, Adam?\u201d he asked warily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I hope you don\u2019t mind but Hoss and I have been talking about what you told him,\u201d Adam said. \u201cI have to admit I was surprised. I didn\u2019t think you realized all the implications of the situation.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled ironically. \u201cYou mean, you thought I was just some kid who would act without thinking.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I did,\u201d admitted Adam. \u201cBut now I know you\u2019re looking at this from all sides. And that\u2019s good. I\u2019m hoping you decide not to leave the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did,\u201d said Joe. \u201cYou left for four years when you went to college back East.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I came back,\u201d responded Adam. \u201cThat should tell you something.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Adam,\u201d said Joe. \u201cYou got to see a lot places, meet a lot of new people. You came back a lot wiser \u2013 not just smarter but a lot wiser. I\u2019ve never lived anywhere but on the Ponderosa. Maybe it\u2019s time I saw some new places and people.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw a lot, that\u2019s true,\u201d agreed Adam. \u201cI saw a lot of the so-called polite society like they have in New Orleans. And, I\u2019ll tell you, Joe, I\u2019d rather face a bunch of Piautes on the warpath than those society people. You can\u2019t imagine what they are like. If you don\u2019t conform, if you don\u2019t do what they think is the \u2018right\u2019 thing, they can make your life miserable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDenise has told me a little about that,\u201d Joe admitted. \u201cBut she and Charles would help me, show me what to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u201cCharles,\u201d he said with a hint of disgust. \u201cPa didn\u2019t want to say anything, not without proof. You know how fair he always tries to be. But Charles may not be all that he\u2019s led you to believe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d asked Joe with a frown. \u201cWhat do you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know<\/u> anything,\u201d admitted Adam. \u201cBut I remember as a kid hearing about Marie\u2019s cousin Charles. She didn\u2019t like him. I heard her tell Pa once that he was not a man to be trusted.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA casual remark made over twenty years ago?\u201d said Joe. \u201cCome on, Adam, you can do better than that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not saying that we have any concrete proof that Charles isn\u2019t what he says he is,\u201d Adam stated. \u201cAll I\u2019m saying is that you had better think about the man who you seem willing to let influence your life for awhile.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u201cYou\u2019re not making this any easier, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Adam replied. \u201cI wish I could. I know this trip to New Orleans sounds exciting. But I\u2019m not sure it\u2019s all that it\u2019s cracked up to be. I hope you will think about it real hard before you make a decision.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded thoughtfully. \u201cI will, Adam, I promise,\u201d he said. An idea was beginning to form in Joe\u2019s mind. \u201cTell Pa I\u2019ll be in soon. I want to think about something.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An hour later, Joe walked into the house. He had spent the time in the barn, thinking about what to do. He finally was sure he had the right answer. At least, he hoped it was the right answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe walked into the house, a room full people turned expectantly toward him. Adam and Hoss were standing near the fireplace, Ben was sitting in his favorite chair and Denise and Charles were sitting on the sofa. From the look on everyone\u2019s faces, the conversation Joe was interrupting had not been a pleasant one. Joe suspected he was the main topic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Walking to the fireplace, Joe faced the group. No one said a word. He could tell they were waiting eagerly for him to say something.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve made a decision,\u201d announced Joe. \u201cI\u2019m going to New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no,\u201d groaned Ben in dismay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m delighted, my boy\u201d said Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it\u2019s wonderful,\u201d echoed Denise. Her voice seem stained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Neither Adam or Hoss said anything. Both simply looked horrified at Joe\u2019s announcement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me finish,\u201d said Joe firmly. \u201cI\u2019m going to New Orleans but only for six months. I\u2019m going to help Charles get his business started. I\u2019ll also get a chance to know the city.\u201d Joe looked at Denise with a smile. \u201cI hope I\u2019ll get a chance to know you better.\u201d Joe turned to Ben. \u201cIt\u2019s only a month or two until winter sets in, Pa. You can manage without me during the winter. I promise I\u2019ll be back in time for spring round-up.\u201d Joe hesitated. \u201cAnd maybe when I come back, Denise will come with me.\u201d Joe couldn\u2019t bring himself to look at her. He was afraid he would be disappointed with what he saw.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAn admirable idea, Joe,\u201d commented Charles, with enthusiasm. \u201cI think you have found the perfect solution.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, are you sure? Is this what you really want to do?\u201d Ben asked anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019m sure,\u201d Joe stated. \u201cI\u2019ve never been surer of anything in my life. Don\u2019t you see, I\u2019m not abandoning you or the Ponderosa. I\u2019m just leaving for awhile, but I\u2019ll be back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rising, Charles lightly slapped Joe on the back. \u201cNow that this is settled, I\u2019m eager to be on our way,\u201d he said. \u201cWe should take the morning stage to Carson City. We can catch the stage to San Francisco from there, and then go by boat to New Orleans. In six weeks or less, you\u2019ll be strolling down Bourbon Street.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe morning stage? Ain\u2019t that a little quick?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve already stayed longer than I planned,\u201d answered Charles. \u201cJoe has made up his mind. There\u2019s no reason to linger.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked doubtful. \u201cI guess you\u2019re right,\u201d he agreed slowly. \u201cI hadn\u2019t thought about leaving so soon, but I guess it\u2019s better than dragging things out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Denise added. \u201cIt is better to do these things quickly.\u201d She had a strange expression on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if I\u2019m leaving in the morning, I\u2019d better get moving,\u201d Joe said. \u201cI\u2019ve got a lot of things to do before I go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The morning sun shone brightly through the window in Joe\u2019s room as he stuffed some shirts into a saddlebag. He looked around the room to see if he had forgotten anything. His gaze settled on a small picture of his mother on the wall. On an impulse, he grabbed the picture off the wall and stuffed it into the saddlebag.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a soft knock on the door. Joe turned as Ben opened the door and entered the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust about ready?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d answered Joe. He turned back to the saddlebags and began to buckle them close.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben noted the saddlebags and a small suitcase on the bed. \u201cTraveling kind of light, aren\u2019t you?\u201d he said with a frown.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles suggested I buy most of the things I need in New Orleans,\u201d answered Joe. \u201cWe talked about it last night after dinner. He thinks that I\u2019ll fit in better if I buy clothes and things there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose he\u2019s right,\u201d Ben said with a sigh. He thought about dinner last night. Even though Hop Sing made all of Joe\u2019s favorite foods for the meal, it was hardly a festive occasion. Joe and Charles talked eagerly of their trip and their plans for their new venture while the Cartwrights listened glumly. Even Denise seemed subdued, hardly saying a word. After dinner, everyone except Joe and Charles made an excuse to go to their rooms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked hard at Joe. \u201cAre you absolutely sure you want to do this?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure,\u201d replied Joe with a confident smile. He hit Ben lightly on the arm. \u201cCome on, Pa, don\u2019t take it so hard. I\u2019m only going away for a little while. I\u2019ll be back in the spring. I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Ben\u2019s face continued to be troubled. \u201cJoe, I told you the decision was yours. And I meant it,\u201d he said. \u201cI just wish you hadn\u2019t decided to go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Pa,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cBut I can\u2019t pass up this chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u201cI hope it\u2019s the chance you think it is,\u201d he told his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know it is,\u201d said Joe eagerly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I want you to promise me that you\u2019ll send word if you need us,\u201d Ben stated. \u201cFor any reason. And you can come home anytime you want. I don\u2019t want you to feel like you have to stay in New Orleans to prove something.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Pa,\u201d Joe assured his father. \u201cIt\u2019ll work out. And if it doesn\u2019t, I\u2019ll come home.\u201d He grabbed the bag from the bed and threw the saddlebags over his shoulder. \u201cWe\u2019d better get going or we\u2019ll miss that stage.\u201d Joe walked rapidly from the room; Ben followed him at a much slower pace..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Eager to be on his way, Joe bounded down the stairs. Adam and Hoss were waiting for him at the bottom of the staircase.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDenise and Charles are waiting outside in the buggy,\u201d said Adam. \u201cLooks like you\u2019re all set.\u201d Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess this is it, little brother,\u201d Hoss added sadly. \u201cAre you sure you don\u2019t want us to come into Virginia City to see you off?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, let\u2019s just say our good-byes here,\u201d answered Joe. \u201cI don\u2019t want a big scene in Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam reached out his hand. \u201cYou take care, Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cDon\u2019t let those society folks change you too much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Adam\u201d Joe replied, shaking his brother\u2019s hand. \u201cI\u2019ll be fine. I\u2019m just worried about how you two will run the ranch without me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll be tough but we\u2019ll manage somehow,\u201d Adam joked with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Turning to Hoss, Joe said, \u201cYou take care of my horse for me. I don\u2019t want to come back and find Cochise all fat and lazy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, I\u2019ll take care of him,\u201d promised Hoss. He put his hands on Joe\u2019s shoulders and looked him straight in the eye. \u201cYou come home safe, you hear,\u201d he said softly. Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally, Joe turned to Ben who was standing behind him on the stairs. Joe\u2019s face was filled with emotion. He started to say something, but suddenly his voice wouldn\u2019t work. Ben looked at him for a minute, then reached out and hugged his youngest son. He held Joe tight for a moment. \u201cTake care of yourself, Joseph,\u201d Ben said as he released his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Swallowing hard, Joe nodded. He turned and walked to the door. Suddenly, he stopped and looked back at his father and brothers. They seemed rooted to the spots in which they were standing. \u201cSee you in the spring,\u201d Joe called, giving a jaunty wave. Then he pulled open the door and left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The ride on the stage to Carson City with Charles and Denise took Joe\u2019s mind off his family. Charles was his same amusing self, telling stories and eagerly making plans for when they got to New Orleans. Denise looked pale and seemed unusually quiet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDenise, is anything wrong?\u201d Joe asked with concern as the stage lurched ahead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled at him. \u201cNo, of course not,\u201d Denise answered. \u201cThe dust and this bouncing coach are upsetting me a bit, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not the smoothest ride, I\u2019ll agree,\u201d said Joe. \u201cBut we\u2019ll be in Carson City soon. You can rest there for awhile.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise looked out the window. \u201cYes, Carson City,\u201d she murmured. \u201cI can\u2019t wait to get there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll be there soon,\u201d repeated Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time the stage reached Carson City, it was late afternoon. Joe helped Denise from the stage while Charles collected their baggage. The trio walked to the hotel while the driver and the stage depot manager followed them with the bags.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Carson City Manor was a large, elegant hotel. The lobby was lavishly decorated with paintings and plants that accented highly polished chairs scattered around it. Charles paused in the lobby, nodding his approval at the rich furnishings. Then he walked briskly to the front desk as Joe and Denise followed him. The driver and stage depot manager deposited their luggage by the door and left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood afternoon, sir. May I help you?\u201d asked the clerk at the desk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles Dumont,\u201d announced Charles with an aristocratic air. \u201cYou have a suite reserved for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we do, Mr. Dumont,\u201d replied the clerk as he leafed through some papers. He pulled out a sheet. \u201cHere it is. Our best suite, with three bedrooms, as you requested.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d said Charles. He pulled a pen from the holder on the desk and signed the registry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you folks have any valuables with you, I suggest you lock them in the hotel safe,\u201d offered the clerk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019s that?\u201d asked Joe who was standing a short distance behind Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe had a robbery here yesterday. Fellow got knifed and all his money was stolen. The sheriff is looking for the thief, but hasn\u2019t found him yet. The thief is probably long gone by now, but just in case, we\u2019re warning our guests to keep their valuables in the hotel safe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure that won\u2019t be necessary,\u201d responded Charles. \u201cWe have little of value and we are leaving on the stage to San Francisco tomorrow evening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSuit yourself,\u201d said the clerk. \u201cWe can\u2019t be responsible for any valuables left in your room.\u201d<\/p>\n

Charles merely nodded as the clerk signaled to a boy in the lobby to help with the bags.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles turned to Denise and Joe. \u201cWe can rest for a while, and then have a refreshing dinner. Tomorrow, you can show Denise the town before we have to leave.\u201d Joe nodded as Denise raised her eyes at Charles, as if asking him a question. But Charles ignored her and followed the hotel boy up the stairs to their room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Adam and Hoss spent the day working silently around the ranch. None of them seemed to have much interest in their work. Each man knew they all missed Joe already, but none of them wanted to bring up his name. None of them could think of any other topic of conversation, however, so it was easier simply not to talk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the early afternoon, Hoss rode into Virginia City to pick up the mail. He also wanted to check to be sure Joe, Charles and Denise got on the stage to Carson City all right, but he didn\u2019t mention that fact to Ben and Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time Hoss returned, it was late in the day. He had checked at the stage depot and was both happy and sad to learn that Joe, Charles and Denise had left as planned. After picking up the mail, Hoss had lingered in town. He knew there would be an empty chair at dinner that evening, and he wanted to put off facing that chair as long as he could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Hoss walked into the house, he saw Ben was sitting in his chair by the fire and Adam was sitting on the sofa. They were silent, lost in their own thoughts. Hoss knew how they felt. He didn\u2019t feel much like talking about Joe either, even though that was all he was thinking about.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere\u2019s the mail, Pa,\u201d Hoss said, handing Ben several envelopes. Ben nodded his thanks and began to sort through the envelopes with a distinct lack of interest. Suddenly, he frowned and pulled a thick envelope from the stack. He quickly tore it open and began to read the pages inside. His frown deepened as he read.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss walked back toward the front door, removing his gunbelt and hat when he got there. After placing them on a bureau by the door, he returned to the sofa and sat down next to Adam. Hoss noted the expression on Ben\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked. He could tell whatever his father was reading was disturbing him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben spent another minute to finish reading the letter, then looked up. \u201cThis is a letter from my old friend, Judge Wilson, in New Orleans,\u201d he answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFrom New Orleans?\u201d remarked Adam. \u201cThat quite a coincidence.\u201d He saw the look on Ben\u2019s face. \u201cIt is a coincidence, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it\u2019s not,\u201d said Ben gravely. \u201cThe letter from Sam Wilson is to warn us about Charles Dumont.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWarn us!\u201d exclaimed Hoss. \u201cPa, what does it say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAccording to Judge Wilson, Charles came out here specifically to get Joe to sign away some land he inherited from Marie,\u201d answered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLand? I don\u2019t understand, \u201c said Adam with a puzzled look. \u201cJoe doesn\u2019t own any land.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s complicated,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cJacque, Marie\u2019s first husband, bought some land in Colorado. I guess he had some wild scheme about living there. Jacque was always doing things impulsively and then not following through. Evidently, he didn\u2019t tell anyone about it. Anyway, when Jacque died, the land became Marie\u2019s. And when she died, Joe inherited it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d asked Adam. \u201cI mean, does it automatically become Joe\u2019s? Somehow, it doesn\u2019t seem like that\u2019s the way it would happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen Joe was born, I had the lawyer come out to change my will,\u201d explained Ben. \u201cMarie decided she wanted a will also. It was more of a gesture than anything. But she wanted to earmark some things specifically for you and Hoss to have if anything should happen to her. You know, that shiny pendant that Hoss liked to play with, and that ring she left for you, Adam. I told her it wasn\u2019t necessary, but she insisted. She wanted to be sure you knew how much she cared for you two if anything should happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cI remember. I thought that pendant was the prettiest thing I ever saw. When she died, I was really sad. Then you gave me that pendant and told me how much she loved us. It really made me feel better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Adam added. \u201cI still have the ring. Every time I look at it, I remember Marie and her kindness toward me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you boys feel that way. I know that\u2019s what she wanted,\u201d Ben said sadly. He sniffed, then cleared his throat. \u201cAnyway, the lawyer added one of those catch-all clauses at the end, saying any remaining personal belongings would go to Joe. We didn\u2019t know about the land Jacque had bought. But that\u2019s how it ended up in Joe\u2019s name. Judge Wilson knows about the will because I sent him a copy years ago, just in case there was anything in New Orleans that belonged to Marie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s so valuable about the land now?\u201d asked Adam. \u201cI mean, it\u2019s been Joe\u2019s for twenty years or more, and nobody has even asked about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems that the land is a key piece in the Union Pacific\u2019s plan to build a railroad,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cCharles found out about it, and told the Union Pacific that he was the owner. He told them that he would sell it to them only if they paid him a small fortune and gave him a seat on their Board. A seat on the Board of the Union Pacific would be worth a lot of money.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut surely the Union Pacific would find out that Charles doesn\u2019t own it,\u201d Adam stated. \u201cThey\u2019re a pretty smart and tough outfit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben referred back to the letter, reading the second page again. \u201cAccording to this,\u201d he said, \u201cthe man the Union Pacific sent to New Orleans to find the owner owes Charles a lot of money in gambling debts. Judge Wilson suspects that the man is supporting Charles\u2019 claim in exchange for being let out of the money he owes. Union Pacific, on the other hand, is demanding some proof that Charles owns the land.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo Charles came out here to get the land from Joe,\u201d mused Adam. \u201cIt seems odd that he would come when he was pressing his claim to the Union Pacific.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEverything is tied up in the courts,\u201d explained Ben. \u201cThat\u2019s how Judge Wilson heard about it. He said it could be another few months before the legal end is sorted out. That gave Charles the time he needed to come out here and get Joe to give him the land.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe came here to swindle Joe,\u201d said Hoss in outrage. \u201cPa, we\u2019ve got to let Joe know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s more serious than that,\u201d Ben replied anxiously. He referred to the letter again and started reading. \u201c \u2018Ben, I want to warn you about Dumont. He\u2019s a dangerous man. His gambling house is considered a den of evil, the worst in New Orleans. I can\u2019t tell you how many lives he has ruined. He\u2019s also suspected of murder, although nothing has ever been proven. He has no regard for human life. Given the potential millions of dollars involved, I think Dumont would do anything to get that land, including murder. You should be very careful around him.\u2019\u201d Ben looked up. \u201cJoe\u2019s in real danger,\u201d he added in a worried voice. \u201cIf Dumont gets him to sign over that land, he could kill Joe to prevent him from disputing the ownership.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Miss Denise?\u201d asked Hoss. \u201cShe doesn\u2019t seem like the kind of gal who would go along with something like this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben scanned the letter again and then read, \u201c \u2018Dumont is traveling with a young woman who is a hostess in his club. I\u2019m not sure how Dumont presents her, but it\u2019s common knowledge in New Orleans that she is his mistress. She would do whatever Dumont tells her, so keep an eye on her also.\u2019 \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss leapt to his feet. \u201cPa, we\u2019ve got to go after them two. There\u2019s no telling what they would do to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI agree, but we need to think about this,\u201d said Ben. \u201cSomehow we have to warn Joe to be careful until we can get to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe can send a telegram to him in Carson City,\u201d suggested Adam. \u201cThey should be there by now, and the stage for San Francisco doesn\u2019t leave until tomorrow. If we ride hard, we can be in Carson City before the stage leaves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u201cThat\u2019s a good idea, but we\u2019ll have to word the telegram carefully. If Dumont sees it and realizes we know about him, there\u2019s no telling what he may do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s going to tricky,\u201d admitted Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d said Ben. He stood up. \u201cYou boys get the horses saddled and ready to go. I\u2019m going to write out the telegram. We\u2019ll stop in Virginia City and have it sent to Joe right away. Then we\u2019ll go the Carson City. I\u2019m going to make sure that Charles Dumont never sees Joe again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

*************<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe spent the next morning showing Denise the shops and sights of Carson City. She seemed disinterested, however, and Joe began to worry that she was beginning to lose her enthusiasm for the West. He began to see things through her eyes, and noticed how simple and unsophisticated the town seemed to be. He was concerned that Denise would not want to return to the Ponderosa with him<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Escorting Denise around the town, Joe tried hard to make the morning pleasant, but his efforts had little success. Denise seemed distracted and paid scant attention. Joe became even more concerned about the future.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The couple finally decided to have lunch at the hotel. Over lunch, Joe decided that a frank discussion was in order. If Denise was losing interest in him, now was the time to find out. After all, she was a big part of the reason he was going to New Orleans.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDenise, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d Joe asked anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise look surprised. \u201cWhy nothing, cheri,\u201d she answered. \u201cWhy do you ask?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just that, ever since we\u2019ve left the Ponderosa, things have been different,\u201d said Joe. \u201cOn the Ponderosa, you seemed so happy. Now, you seem\u2026I don\u2019t know\u2026kind of worried. If there\u2019s something bothering you, you know you can talk to me about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise smiled at him. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Joe,\u201d she replied. \u201cI suppose I have been a little distant. It\u2019s just thinking about going home, and what waits for us there. I\u2019m anxious to get back to New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m anxious, too,\u201d said Joe. \u201cBut it\u2019s going to be a long trip. I thought we could take advantage of the time together. But you don\u2019t seem happy about the idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise paused before answering. She had no idea what Charles had in mind; however, she remembered his warning. She decided that she had better keep Joe interested and charmed until she knew exactly what Charles wanted her to do. Besides, she hated to see Joe looking so worried. \u201cJoe,\u201d she murmured in her softest voice. \u201cI love being with you. I\u2019m sorry if I haven\u2019t shown that. I promise I will make it up to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, you will,\u201d he said suggestively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise laughed. \u201cYou are a wicked man, Joe Cartwright,\u201d she teased..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pair finished their meal in a much happier mood than when it started. They talked about San Francisco, and the voyage to New Orleans. They made plans about the future. Joe felt that whatever was bothering Denise didn\u2019t involve her feelings for him. And that made him happy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As they left the dining room to return to their suite, the clerk at the desk called to them.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, there\u2019s a telegram for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe walked over to the desk. \u201cA telegram?\u201d he said in surprise. He couldn\u2019t imagine who would be sending him a telegram.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it came in yesterday, but the night clerk misplaced it,\u201d answered the clerk. \u201cI just found it. I\u2019m sorry. I hope it isn\u2019t anything important.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure it\u2019s not,\u201d said Joe. He ripped open the envelope. A puzzled expression crossed his face as he read.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs anything wrong?\u201d asked Denise as she watched him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d replied Joe. \u201cIt\u2019s from Pa. He says he needs to talk with me right away, and I\u2019m to wait in Carson City until he gets here. It also says not to do anything until he arrives. I wonder what he means by that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise frowned. Ben Cartwright\u2019s coming to Carson City seemed to be an ominous sign. \u201cMaybe we should talk to Charles about this,\u201d she suggested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood idea,\u201d Joe agreed with a nod. \u201cMaybe he will have an idea about what Pa means.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the suite, Charles was lounging in a chair reading a newspaper, when Joe and Denise walked in. He smiled at the handsome couple.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you have a good time?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it was fine,\u201d answered Joe. \u201cBut I got this strange telegram from Pa. What do you think it means?\u201d He handed the telegram to Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles read the telegram with alarm, although he tried not to show it. Somehow, he thought, Ben Cartwright must have figured out his plan. Charles handed the paper back to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure it\u2019s nothing,\u201d Charles said in a soothing voice. \u201cBut I\u2019m concerned that your father wants you to wait here for him. We must make that stage to San Francisco.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d agreed Joe. \u201cBut if Pa asked me to wait, I should wait. You two can go on ahead if he doesn\u2019t get here in time. I can catch up with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no,\u201d said Charles quickly. \u201cWe\u2019ll stay together.\u201d The last thing Charles Dumont wanted was to have Ben Cartwright alone with Joe. Charles thought for a moment, then turned to Denise. \u201cMy dear, why don\u2019t you rest for a bit. We have a long journey ahead of us. Besides, I want to talk with Joe about something.\u201d He looked meaningfully at Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d she answered. She turned and smiled at Joe. \u201cThank you for a pleasant day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201dAlways a pleasure,\u201d said Joe gallantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stroked his cheek lightly and then walked to her room. Joe\u2019s eyes followed her. Charles noted the action with satisfaction. He hoped this would make his task easier.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After Denise went into her room, Joe sighed. He took off his jacket, and began rolling up his sleeves, making himself more comfortable. He turned to Charles. \u201cWhat did you want to talk about?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been thinking, Joe, that we should formalize our partnership,\u201d said Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFormalize? What do you mean?\u201d asked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should sign a formal partnership agreement, \u201c answered Charles. \u201cI took the liberty of having a lawyer draw up the proper paper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut why?\u201d asked Joe. \u201cI mean, we really haven\u2019t started up our business yet. It seems a little soon to be calling it a partnership.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we get to New Orleans, we will want to start working on our business right away,\u201d explained Charles. \u201cThings will be easier if we have a formal partnership. Besides, it\u2019s really for Denise. If anything should happen to me, you would get ownership of my business. I know I could rely on you to take care of Denise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe thought about it for a moment. \u201cThat makes sense, I guess,\u201d he agreed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it does,\u201d said Charles. He reached into pocket of his coat and pulled out a paper. \u201cAs I said, I have the paper ready. All you have to do is sign it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Walking over to Charles, Joe took the paper from his hand. He sat down at the small desk in the middle of the room and started to read it. He frowned as he read it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis says you would get ownership of any of my businesses or properties if anything should happen to me,\u201d said Joe. \u201cThat doesn\u2019t seem fair. I don\u2019t have anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just a formality, Joe,\u201d replied Charles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you understand I don\u2019t own any of the Ponderosa,\u201d Joe insisted. \u201cEverything is in Pa\u2019s name.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d acknowledged Charles. \u201cAnd I wouldn\u2019t dream of trying to get any of the Ponderosa. The paper says specifically only any businesses or properties you own at the time the paper is signed is involved, plus any businesses or properties we choose to buy in the future. It\u2019s a very normal partnership agreement.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d said Joe reluctantly. \u201cMaybe I should wait until Pa gets here to sign this. He\u2019s better at contracts and things than I am. Besides, his wire said specifically not to do anything until he arrives.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure he didn\u2019t mean this,\u201d Charles countered. \u201cIt\u2019s just a simple partnership agreement. It\u2019s just a formality. What harm can it do for you to sign it? After all, as you said, you really don\u2019t have anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wavered. For some reason, he felt uncomfortable about signing the paper. But Charles was right; it was really a formality. What harm could it do? He could show it to Pa later, and if there was something wrong with it, he was sure Charles would agree to tear it up. Joe read the paper again. He couldn\u2019t see anything in the agreement that seemed unusual and he didn\u2019t want Charles to think he didn\u2019t trust him. Joe picked up a pen that was laying on the desk. He dipped it in a small inkpot and signed his name to the agreement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExcellent, excellent,\u201d commented Charles as he watched Joe sign the paper. Charles bent over the desk and picked up the pen. He signed his name also. Then Charles picked the paper and checked the signatures. A smile of satisfaction slowly crossed his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to show this to my Pa,\u201d said Joe reaching for the paper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a moment, Charles looked startled but his demeanor quickly changed to bland look. \u201cOf course,\u201d he agreed, handing the paper back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Turning back to the desk, Joe started reading the paper again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charles\u2019 eyes narrowed as he stared at Joe\u2019s back. He twisted his arm slightly, and the knife slid down his sleeve and into his hand. He raised the knife, ready to plunge it into Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly, the room to Denise\u2019s door opened. She saw the knife in Charles\u2019 hand and Joe\u2019s unguarded back. \u201cNo, Charles!\u201d she screamed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of Denise\u2019s scream caused Joe to turn in the chair. He saw a flash of metal in the corner of his eye then felt a searing pain in his back. He twisted away from the pain, and felt something tearing his flesh. Joe fell forward to the floor, and felt the object being pulled from his back. He tried to stand, but the pain was excruciating. He collapsed in agony into a heap on the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Standing over Joe with a bloody knife in his hand, Charles raised the knife as if to plunge it again into the helpless body on the floor. Denise rushed forward and grabbed his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Charles!\u201d she shouted again. \u201cDon\u2019t! Please don\u2019t!\u201d She struggled with Charles, trying to wrestle the knife from his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door of the suite opened as Denise and Charles struggled. As Charles pushed Denise away from him, Ben Cartwright walked into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In an instant, Ben took in the scene before him. Joe was laying on the floor, blood spilling from his back, and Charles stood over his son with a knife poised to strike again. Pulling his gun quickly from his holster, Ben fired at Charles, hitting him in the chest. Charles dropped the knife and clutched at his chest. He staggered for a step or two then fell to the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With Adam and Hoss at his heels, Ben rushed into the room. He knelt over Joe and turned his son over gently. He lifted Joe\u2019s head into his arms. \u201cJoe,\u201d said Ben urgently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes were closed, his face creased in pain. The sound of Ben\u2019s voice seemed to rouse him, though. Joe\u2019s eyes fluttered opened and he stared up at his father. \u201cWhy?\u201d he asked in strained voice. Joe grimaced again. Then his body went limp as he passed out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt Joe\u2019s neck and was relieved to feel a pulse. He turned to Adam and shouted, \u201cGet a doctor, quick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding, Adam pushed through a small crowd of people who were gathering at the door. \u201cI\u2019ll get the sheriff, \u201ccalled a voice in the crowd.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise had been sitting in a heap on the floor. Now she scrambled to her feet and rushed to Ben\u2019s side. \u201cIs he alive?\u201d she asked anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but he\u2019s hurt bad,\u201d answered Ben. Ben looked around the room until he spotted Hoss a few feet away. \u201cHoss, help me get him into a bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis way,\u201d said Denise as Ben and Hoss lifted Joe. She led them to a doorway and watched as they gently placed Joe face-down on the bed. Ben turned Joe\u2019s head to the side on the pillow. A growing bloodstain covered the upper left side of Joe\u2019s shirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get some towels,\u201d offered Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ripping open Joe\u2019s shirt, Ben was appalled at the ugly slash in Joe\u2019s back. The wound was several inches long, running at an angle from his shoulder to his side. Blood seemed to be pouring out of the wound.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a swish of her skirt, Denise rushed back into the room with a handful of towels. She stopped and paled as she saw Joe\u2019s wound. Ben grabbed a towel from her hand and put it over the wound. He pressed on it hard, trying to stop the bleeding. As he looked up, Ben saw Denise begin to sway as if she would faint. \u201cHoss, get her out of here,\u201d Ben ordered. \u201cAnd find Adam and that doctor! Joe needs help fast!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was pacing the outside the bedroom. The doctor had been inside, working on Joe, for almost two hours. The longer it took, the more worried Hoss began. \u201cAdam, what\u2019s taking so long?\u201d Hoss demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sitting at the desk, Adam was playing idly with a pen. He shook his head. \u201cYou know as much as I do.\u201d He saw the worry on Hoss\u2019 face. \u201cI\u2019m sure Pa or the doctor will tell us something soon,\u201d added Adam in a comforting voice. Hoss nodded but continued to pace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise sat in a chair by the wall, pale and shaky. She stared at the bloodstains on the floor, almost in shock. Charles was dead. His body had been removed from the suite. Joe might be dying behind that bedroom door. She couldn\u2019t think, couldn\u2019t imagine how this violence had erupted from a simple plan to get Joe to sign a piece of paper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A knock on the door drew everyone\u2019s attention. Adam walked to the door and opened it. A heavy-set man wearing a sheriff\u2019s badge stood in the door. Adam opened the door wide and the sheriff walked in.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s the boy?\u201d asked the sheriff.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know yet,\u201d answered Hoss in a worried voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff sat down in a chair near the desk as Adam returned to the chair by the desk. \u201cYou fellows need to tell me exactly what\u2019s going on here,\u201d demanded the sheriff. \u201cAll I know is I have a man who was shot dead, and some wild story about him trying to knife that fellow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe dead man is named Charles Dumont,\u201d explained Adam. \u201cHe was trying to swindle my brother out of some land by having him sign a partnership agreement. Once Joe signed the paper, Dumont tried to kill him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019d already stabbed Joe once when we got here,\u201d added Hoss. \u201cIf Pa hadn\u2019t shot him, he would have killed Joe. Pa had to shoot.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff nodded. \u201cI guess the shooting was justified. But how did Dumont figure he was going to get away with it?\u201d the sheriff asked. \u201cIt should would have raised some suspicion that your brother was killed right after he signed that paper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy guess is that he would have made it look like Joe was killed in the midst of a robbery,\u201d answered Adam. \u201cHe probably wouldn\u2019t have produced the partnership agreement until he got back to New Orleans. If anyone from New Orleans bothered to check, you probably would have said Joe was killed during a robbery.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMakes sense,\u201d agreed the sheriff. \u201cWe had a fellow knifed in a robbery the other day. I probably would have believed the same thing happened here.\u201d The sheriff inclined his head toward Denise. \u201cWhat about her?\u201d he asked. \u201cShe involved in this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe was struggling with Dumont when we got here,\u201d said Adam quickly. \u201cShe was trying to stop him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff nodded again, satisfied with Adam\u2019s explanation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly, the door of the bedroom opened and the doctor walked out. Everyone turned to him with an anxious look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll make it,\u201d the doctor announced curtly. Adam, Hoss, and Denise breathed a sigh of relief. \u201cHe was lucky,\u201d continued the doctor. \u201cThe knife tore up a lot of tissue and muscle, but it missed his vital organs. It\u2019s a deep cut. He must have twisted at the last minute. If that knife had gone in straight, it would have killed him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan I talk with him?\u201d asked the sheriff.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor shook his head. \u201cNot for awhile. He lost a lot of blood. He\u2019s pretty weak. And I gave him a strong sedative to help the pain. I doubt if he\u2019ll be in any shape to talk until sometime tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sighing, the sheriff said, \u201cWell, I guess I don\u2019t really need him. I think I have everything I need.\u201d He turned to Adam. \u201cYou let me know if he has anything to add.\u201d Adam nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor walked toward the door and then stopped. He turned to Adam and Hoss. \u201cMr. Cartwright is sitting with him for now, but I want somebody with him all the time. If his fever goes up or he starts to bleed again, you send for me right away,\u201d the doctor ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, doc, we\u2019ll watch him close,\u201d promised Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor nodded in satisfaction. \u201cI\u2019ll be back tomorrow to check on him,\u201d he said. With another nod, the doctor walked out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff stood and walked toward the door also. \u201cI\u2019d better get back to my office,\u201d he stated. \u201cSorry you folks had this trouble. I\u2019m glad the boy is going to be all right.\u201d He followed the doctor out the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam, Hoss and Denise sat in silence, each of them relieved that Joe was going to be all right. After a few minutes, Denise seemed to rouse herself out of her stupor. She stood and walked over to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d she said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say anything that wasn\u2019t true,\u201d Adam replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI truly didn\u2019t know what Charles had planned. He promised me he would not harm Joe. And I believed him,\u201d Denise said in a trembling voice. \u201cI would never do anything to hurt Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI believe you,\u201d replied Adam. \u201cBut I think it would be better if you were gone by the time Joe wakes up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise nodded. \u201cYes. I\u2019ll go pack.\u201d She walked to her room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, do you really believe she didn\u2019t know what Charles planned,\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI believe she tried to stop Charles from killing Joe,\u201d Adam answered. \u201cBesides, what good would it be to have her arrested? If there was a trial, Joe would have to testify against her. I don\u2019t want Joe to have to go through that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d agreed Hoss. \u201cYou\u2019re right. It\u2019s going to be tough enough on Joe without that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took some doing, but Hoss and Adam convinced a reluctant Ben to leave Joe for awhile and get something to eat. As they took turns sitting with Joe over the next few hours, Hoss and Adam said little. Joe slept quietly the whole time, heavily sedated. In the early evening, Ben returned to his son\u2019s room, prepared to spend the night with Joe. Adam and Hoss urged him to rest, to let them relieve him again later that night, but Ben ignored their pleas. All he could think about was watching over his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was close to midnight as Ben sat in the dimly light bedroom, watching Joe sleep. Joe\u2019s back was heavily bandaged – strips of white cloth ran diagonally across Joe\u2019s chest and around his waist, holding the bandages in place. His face looked pale and slightly feverish. Ben periodically wiped Joe\u2019s face with a damp cloth, trying to make his son more comfortable. The fever was not very high, and Joe seemed to be resting easy. Ben watched his son carefully, but felt sure Joe\u2019s condition was not deteriorating. The fever was a normal reaction to the injury.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sitting in a chair on the right side of his son\u2019s bed, quietly watching Joe, Ben was sure everyone else in the suite was asleep. He was surprised to hear a soft knock on the door and even more surprised to see Denise walk in. She was dressed as if she was ready to travel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs he still asleep?\u201d asked Denise softly, looking at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u201cThe sedative the doctor gave him really knocked him out. I doubt if he\u2019ll wake up until morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut he will be all right?\u201d Denise persisted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he\u2019ll be all right,\u201d answered Ben evenly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise looked straight at Ben. \u201cI am truly sorry about what happened,\u201d she said sadly. \u201cI never wanted anything to happen to Joe. I honestly believed Charles when he told me that all he wanted was Joe to sign that paper, that he would send him home after it was signed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded but said nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour son is a decent, honorable man,\u201d Denise continued. \u201cI\u2019ve known very few men like him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow did you ever end up with a man like Dumont?\u201d asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was young, poor and ambitious,\u201d explained Denise. \u201cI wanted the fine clothes and the exciting life that the women in society seemed to have. Charles hired me to work in his club, taught me how to act and bought me fine clothes. Our relationship grew into\u2026into something else. By the time I realized the price I was paying for the life I wanted, it was too late to change things.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam told me about the letter you received,\u201d Denise said. \u201cWill you tell Joe the truth about me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have to,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cHe\u2019ll ask about you and I won\u2019t lie to my son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m leaving shortly,\u201d said Denise. \u201cI promised Adam I would be gone before Joe woke up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think that would be wise,\u201d agreed Ben quietly. \u201cWhere will you go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBack to New Orleans,\u201d replied Denise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised an eyebrow. \u201cBack to the same life?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d said Denise. \u201cWith Charles dead, I\u2019m free. I have friends, good friends, who will help me start over. And that\u2019s what I want. To start over and build a new life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Denise walked to the bed and looked down on Joe. \u201cI really do care for him, you know,\u201d she said softly. \u201cPerhaps not in the way that you and he would want, but I do care.\u201d She bent over and kissed Joe softly on the forehead. \u201cGoodbye, cheri.\u201d Then she turned and walked out of the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat back in his chair, his forehead furrowed in thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The morning sun was streaming through the window when Joe began to stir. Ben had been dozing in his chair, but sat up instantly as he heard Joe groan. He watched anxiously as Joe slowly moved on the bed. Joe winced in pain, then opened his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning,\u201d said Ben with a smile. \u201cHow do you feel?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe blinked his eyes slowly as if trying to wake himself. He looked at Ben. \u201cI\u2019m pretty sore,\u201d he said in a weak voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not surprised,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cThat\u2019s a pretty deep cut you have. But the doctor said you\u2019re going to be all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Frowning, Joe tried to remember what happened. \u201cWhy did he do it?\u201d he asked. \u201cWhy did Charles try to kill me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a long story, Joe,\u201d Ben said in a soothing voice. \u201cBut basically, that paper you signed gave Charles a partnership in some land he wanted. That was his plan all along, to get you to sign that paper. Once you signed it, he wanted you dead so he could have the land all to himself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked puzzled. \u201cI don\u2019t own any land.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you do,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cYou just didn\u2019t know it. You inherited it from your mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen all that talk about starting a business in New Orleans\u2026.it was just a lie, wasn\u2019t it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid so,\u201d said Ben. \u201cHe just wanted to get you alone so he could convince you to sign the partnership agreement. He never had any intention of letting you get to New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe closed his eyes, then opened them slowly. \u201cAnd Denise?\u201d Joe asked hesitantly. \u201cWas she a part of it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Joe, but yes,\u201d Ben replied sympathetically. \u201cHer role was to make sure you would want to come to New Orleans with Charles.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned his head away from Ben. \u201cShe\u2019s not really his niece, is she,\u201d Joe said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d replied Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho is she?\u201d asked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. He hated having to tell Joe the truth, but knew it couldn\u2019t be avoided. He sighed. \u201cDenise was Charles\u2019 mistress,\u201d Ben said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe winced, Ben knew the pain his son was feeling wasn\u2019t physical. He put his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, son,\u201d Ben added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe buried face into the pillow. Ben could see a slight tremor running through Joe\u2019s body. Ben was sure Joe was hiding some tears from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake me home, Pa,\u201d Joe said in a muffled voice. \u201cI want to go home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Joe,\u201d promised Ben as he slowly stroked Joe\u2019s shoulder. \u201cSoon as you\u2019re well enough to travel, I\u2019ll take you home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Continuing to hide his face in the pillow, Joe let out a muffled sob. Ben wished there was something he could say or do to help Joe. He knew how much his son must be hurting, both physically and otherwise. Ben felt helpless. All he could do was try to offer his sympathy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he finally turned his head back to look at Ben, Joe\u2019s eyes were red. He stared at his father for a minute, then looked up at the ceiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Getting to his feet, Ben said, \u201cYou rest for awhile, Joe. I\u2019ll rustle up some breakfast for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry,\u201d replied Joe in a disinterested voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you have to eat, you have to get your strength back,\u201d Ben ordered in a stern voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Say nothing, Joe continued to look away from Ben, continued to stare at ceiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get you some food,\u201d repeated Ben. Ben looked at his son anxiously, then left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss were sitting by the desk as Ben emerged from the bedroom. They looked expectantly at their father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s awake,\u201d Ben announced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s he doing?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, I suppose,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cHe asked about Charles and Denise. He took it pretty hard when I told him the truth about them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked concerned. \u201cIs there anything we can do?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u201cNo, I don\u2019t think so,\u201d he replied. \u201cI think the best thing to do is let Joe sort it out for himself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you\u2019re right,\u201d said Hoss, but his voice sounded doubtful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to get Joe something to eat,\u201d Ben told his sons. \u201cHow about you fellows? Have you had breakfast?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe ate a little while ago,\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but maybe I\u2019ll go down with you, Pa,\u201d offered Hoss. \u201cI didn\u2019t have much of an appetite before. I\u2019m hungry as a bear now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re always hungry as a bear,\u201d said Adam disdainfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled. If Hoss was hungry and Adam was teasing him, things were on their way to being back to normal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben brought a tray of breakfast into Joe. He helped his son sit up in bed, aware that the movement was causing Joe some pain. He silently cursed Charles Dumont for each wince of pain he saw on Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Over breakfast, Ben told Joe the whole story: of the land in Colorado, and how he had inherited it; of Charles\u2019 plan and the letter he had received from Judge Wilson; and finally, of Charles\u2019 death and Denise\u2019s departure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he listened, Joe ate little. His face showed no emotion. Only when Ben repeated what Denise had said in his room late last night did Joe react. A look of surprise, then misery crossed Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben noticed how Joe picked at the food in front of him. \u201cCome on, Joe, you have to eat,\u201d urged Ben. \u201cYou need to get well and strong so we can get you home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Putting down his fork, Joe laid back against the pillows. \u201cI\u2019m tired, Pa,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ll eat something later.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reluctantly, Ben took the tray. As he left the room, he looked back at Joe. Joe\u2019s eyes were closed, but Ben could tell he was not trying to sleep. Ben shook his head and left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

**************<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The clock was striking noon as Ben came out of Joe\u2019s room the next day. He was surprised to see Adam and Hoss waiting for him. He thought his two older sons were busy in town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you two doing here?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, first we came to check on Joe,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cHow is he today?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head sadly. \u201cAbout the same. I took some lunch into him but I doubt if he\u2019ll eat much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe doctor has checked him a couple of times, hasn\u2019t he?\u201d asked Adam. \u201cWhat did he say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s back is healing fine. No sign of infection or permanent damage,\u201d answered Ben. \u201cJoe\u2019s worst wounds aren\u2019t physical.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you try talking to him?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI tried but I don\u2019t think Joe listened,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cEvery time I try to talk with him, he says he\u2019s tired and wants to sleep. But I know he\u2019s really not sleeping, just avoiding talking to me. I can\u2019t seem to get through to him. I don\u2019t know what to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss exchanged glances, then Adam cleared his throat. \u201cThe second reason we came back is that Len Davis has some stallions for sale,\u201d said Adam. \u201cI think they would be good breeding stock. I\u2019d like you to take a look at them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Adam,\u201d replied Ben with a frown. \u201cMaybe now isn\u2019t a good time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you haven\u2019t been out of this room in two days,\u201d Adam said. \u201cYou need a break. It won\u2019t take long. Come look at the horses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou two go on,\u201d Hoss added quickly. \u201cI\u2019ll stay here in case Joe needs something.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d agreed Ben reluctantly. He picked up his hat from a chair and headed to the door. Adam followed him, stopping to take a quick look over his shoulder at Hoss. Hoss nodded. Without a word, Adam urged his father out the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss waited a few minutes until he was sure Ben and Adam were gone. The he walked into Joe\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was sitting up in bed. A tray of food was sitting untouched on the table next to him. Joe barely glanced at Hoss as he entered the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s a shame to see all this good food go to waste,\u201d said Hoss as he sat in the chair next to the bed. \u201cDon\u2019t you want to eat something?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry,\u201d Joe replied listlessly. \u201cHelp yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at the tray. \u201cNo, I\u2019m full up,\u201d he said. The two brothers sat in silence for a few moments. Finally, Hoss asked, \u201cJoe, what\u2019s bothering you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing,\u201d answered Joe in a dull voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s an awful lot of nothing you got bottled up inside you,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cYou gonna keep it there forever? Because if you do, it\u2019s going to fester like a sore that won\u2019t heal. And that ain\u2019t a pretty sight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked his brother in surprise. Biting his lip a bit, Joe seemed to be trying to decide what to say. Finally, he shook his head. \u201cHoss, I\u2019ve been such a fool,\u201d Joe blurted out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, Joe, you ain\u2019t the first fellow whose head was turned by a pretty face,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cAnd you sure ain\u2019t gonna be the last.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not just that,\u201d explained Joe. \u201cSure, I feel bad about what happened with Denise. But there\u2019s more to it. I was all set to go to New Orleans and become a big man. Pa and Adam and you all tried to warn me about Charles. But I wouldn\u2019t listen. I thought I knew it all. I was going to come back and show you how smart I was. Well, I showed you all right,\u201d Joe finished bitterly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, we all make mistakes,\u201d advised Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot like this,\u201d answered Joe. \u201cYou never made such a big mistake.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be too sure,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cMe and Adam and Pa, we\u2019ve made some doozies. But remember what Pa always says. You have to learn from your mistakes and move on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to show you all that I was grown up, that I knew what I was doing. All I showed you was that I was a fool,\u201d stated Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat ain\u2019t true,\u201d Hoss said. \u201cYou got taken in. It happens. We don\u2019t think any the less of you for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t understand,\u201d countered Joe, shaking his head. \u201cYou just don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I do,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cYou\u2019re feeling low because of what happened, and you don\u2019t know what to do about it. Well, the way I see it, you got two choices. You can lay here in this bed and feel sorry for yourself. Or you can show us what you\u2019re really made of. You can show us how a man handles a bad time by getting on with his life. The choice is up to you. You think about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked startled as Hoss stood up to leave. Hoss took a few steps then stopped at the end of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me tell you one thing me and Adam and Pa learned,\u201d Hoss said. \u201cWhen we thought you were leaving, and maybe never coming back, we learned how much we missed you. We ain\u2019t never gonna take you for granted again. I can promise you that.\u201d Hoss turned and walked out of the room without looking back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Adam and Ben returned to the suite a short time later, Hoss was sitting in the chair by the desk, reading a newspaper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Joe?\u201d Adam asked. His question seemed to have an added significance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Hoss admitted. \u201cI haven\u2019t heard a peep out of him for almost an hour.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe I\u2019d better check on him,\u201d said Ben, walking toward the bedroom. Adam looked pointedly at Hoss. Hoss merely shrugged his shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben returned in a minute, carrying a tray. \u201cJoe\u2019s asleep,\u201d he announced excitedly. \u201cI mean, really asleep, not that pretend sleep that he\u2019s been using to avoid me. And look, he ate almost all his lunch. I think he\u2019s turned the corner. I think he\u2019s going to be all right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI knew it, Pa. I just knew it,\u201d said Hoss, a grin breaking out on his face. \u201cThat kid\u2019s got more grit in him than any of us give him credit for.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

**************<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe seemed like his old self after Hoss\u2019 visit. He began to recover rapidly and was allowed to go home after two more days in bed. Joe sat gingerly in the rented buggy that Ben drove back to the Ponderosa, but he teased and joked with Adam and Hoss as they rode their horses beside the buggy. Even though Joe\u2019s banter seem forced, Ben felt an enormous sense of relief. While Joe still didn\u2019t seem to want to talk about what happened, Ben sensed Joe had put it behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After two more weeks of taking it easy, Joe was declared fit to go back to work by the doctor in Virginia City. Ben watched with satisfaction and pride as his three sons left each morning to take care of the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Winter was approaching. The air had a cool nip in it in the morning, and the temperature seemed to stay low all day. Ben told his sons it was time to round up the herd and move it to the southern-most pasture on the Ponderosa. He wanted the cattle moved before the snow fell.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Cartwrights and ten of their hands worked for two days on the roundup. The days were long and the work was hard. Ben watched anxiously for the signs of trouble between his sons that had popped up during the last round-up. So far, all he had seen was the normal bickering and teasing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Adam and Hoss were standing watch over the herd when Joe galloped up on his pinto.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, there\u2019s five or six head of cattle stuck in the mud down by the creek,\u201d shouted Joe as he reined his horse to a stop. \u201cI need a couple of men to help me get them out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, maybe you ought to..\u2026\u201d Adam began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe can handle it,\u201d said Hoss firmly. \u201cI got my own work to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you\u2019re right, Hoss,\u201d Adam agreed. He turned to Joe. \u201cGet Shorty and Hank. They\u2019re over by the chuckwagon. They can help you. And be sure to show them what to do. I don\u2019t want them losing any cattle for us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRight,\u201d said Joe with a grin. He turned his horse and galloped off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded in approval. \u201cYou boys handled that just right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShucks, Pa,\u201d said Hoss in embarrassment. \u201cWe didn\u2019t do nothing. Joe knows how get some cattle out of the mud.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBesides, now he\u2019s the one who will get wet and dirty, not us,\u201d Adam added with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust the same, I glad you did what you did,\u201d said Ben. \u201cWell, it seems like you boys have everything under control. I\u2019m going to head back to the ranch. Hop Sing should be back from town with the mail by now. I want to see if there\u2019s a payment for the timber delivery.\u201d He gave his buckskin horse a small kick and rode off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was dark by the time Joe, Adam and Hoss returned to the ranch. Joe\u2019s boots and the bottom of his pants were covered with mud. Splatters of mud dotted his shirt and jacket, also. Adam and Hoss didn\u2019t say anything as the three of them stabled their horses. But laughter twinkled in their eyes every time one of them looked at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was sitting in his chair, reading a letter when the trio entered the house. He frowned when he saw Joe. \u201cWhat happened to you?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, Pa, Joe just loved playing in the mud today,\u201d answered Hoss with a laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d think at his age he\u2019d be past wanting to make mud pies,\u201d added Adam with a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled wryly. \u201cOne of those cows wouldn\u2019t come out of the mud. I had to get down and push him out. While these two were sitting all comfy by the herd, I was doing all the dirty work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t that what little brothers are for?\u201d said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI got them all out and back to the herd, didn\u2019t I?\u201d said Joe with a touch of pride.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure did,\u201d agreed Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did a good job today, Joe,\u201d Adam added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and smiled. \u201cGo get cleaned up,\u201d he said. \u201cI don\u2019t want you tracking mud through the house.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean you don\u2019t think a little mud would add something to the decor?\u201d asked Joe innocently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean, if you get any mud on the furniture, I\u2019ll skin you,\u201d Ben said sternly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir,\u201d Joe answered with a grin. He turned to Adam and Hoss. \u201cYou heard, Pa. Get cleaned up,\u201d Joe commanded. He danced a few steps away as Hoss took a swipe at him. Joe laughed and walked rapidly up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Hoss, wait a minute, will you?\u201d Ben said in a serious voice after Joe had left.<\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss looked at each other in surprise, then walked over to where Ben was sitting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnything wrong?\u201d asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, nothing\u2019s wrong,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cNot really. I\u2019m just not sure what to do.\u201d He waved the paper in his hand. \u201cThis is a letter from Judge Wilson in New Orleans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes he say anything about Denise?\u201d asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA little. And he has some news about that land in Colorado,\u201d said Ben. \u201cI know I should probably tell Joe. But I hate to bring it up. He seems to have gotten over what happened. But he still hasn\u2019t talked about it. I don\u2019t know if opening an old wound is the best thing to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you can\u2019t avoid the subject forever,\u201d advised Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2019s right,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cBesides, I think you\u2019ll find Joe is a whole lot tougher than you think.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose you\u2019re both right,\u201d Ben agreed with a sigh. \u201cAt least, let\u2019s wait until after dinner to discuss it. Don\u2019t say anything about the letter until then.\u201d Adam and Hoss nodded in agreement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t seem to notice anything unusual at dinner, although both Hoss and Adam thought Ben was more thoughtful than usual. The boys talked about plans for moving the herd. Adam speculated on what other dirty jobs they could give to Joe the next day. Hoss agreed, as he continued to pile food on his plate, that they could think of some really nasty jobs. Joe feigned sickness and told his brothers that he thought he ought to spend the next day in bed. Ben smiled briefly at their horseplay. He hoped the discussion he was planning wouldn\u2019t put too much of a damper on it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After finishing dinner, the Cartwrights moved to the living room. Ben settled himself in his favorite chair as Joe and Hoss collapsed on the sofa. Adam sat in a blue chair near the staircase.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhew, I\u2019m about as tired as I can get,\u201d announced Joe. \u201cI think I\u2019m going to call it an early night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBefore you go to your room, there\u2019s something I want to talk to you about,\u201d said Ben. He pulled a sheaf of papers from the pocket in his shirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe noted the serious tone of Ben\u2019s voice. \u201cWhat\u2019s up?\u201d he asked curiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI received a letter from Judge Wilson in New Orleans today,\u201d replied Ben. He watched carefully for Joe\u2019s reaction to the news.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face hardened. \u201cI\u2019m not much interested in any news from New Orleans,\u201d he said bitterly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should be,\u201d suggested Ben. \u201cIt concerns you, or rather that land in Colorado that you own.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat land is more trouble than it\u2019s worth,\u201d Joe replied grimly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill, I think you should hear what Judge Wilson has to say,\u201d insisted Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took a deep breath. \u201cAll right. What does he say.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it seems that all the wrangling in court was just a delaying tactic by the Union Pacific,\u201d explained Ben. \u201cThey\u2019ve mapped out a new route and acquired the land they need. That parcel in Colorado is no longer of interest to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo it\u2019s worthless,\u201d said Joe. He shook his head. \u201cAll that, and the land is worthless.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid so,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not,\u201d said Joe. \u201cI never wanted it in the first place. I would have let Charles have it if he had asked.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCharles Dumont was a greedy man, Joe,\u201d commented Ben. \u201cHe thought all men were as greedy as he was. He would have never believed you if you told him he could have had the land for the asking.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. Then he swallowed hard. \u201cDoes Judge Wilson say anything about\u2026does he say anything else?\u201d Joe asked hesitantly. He wasn\u2019t sure he wanted to know, but he couldn\u2019t stop himself from asking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s said Dumont\u2019s gambling house is closed, gone out of business,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cAccording to his letter, Judge Wilson feels no one in New Orleans will miss it.\u201d Ben stopped and looked at Joe. He knew what Joe wanted to know. He only wished he could soften what he had to say next. \u201cHe also says that Denise is married.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMarried?\u201d Joe exclaimed. \u201cTo who?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEvidently, to a man who knew all about her past, but wanted to marry her anyway,\u201d said Ben. \u201cThey\u2019ve left New Orleans. No one knows where they\u2019ve gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A look of pain flashed across Joe\u2019s face. \u201cIf Denise had been honest with me\u2026.\u201d he muttered. Joe stopped and shook his head. \u201cI hope she\u2019s happy. She deserves some happiness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, would you have married her if you knew the truth?\u201d asked Hoss in surprise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Hoss,\u201d admitted Joe. \u201cI loved her and I thought she loved me. I don\u2019t think her past would have mattered to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben let out a silent sigh of relief. He had wondered about Joe\u2019s reaction if someday he found out some unpleasant facts about his mother\u2019s past. Now, he felt that wasn\u2019t something he needed to worry about any longer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Getting to his feet, Joe stretched. \u201cI think I\u2019ll head up to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I\u2019m sorry you\u2019re not going to get rich from that land in Colorado,\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m already rich,\u201d answered Joe. He looked meaningfully at Adam, then at Hoss, and then at Ben. \u201cI\u2019m the richest man I know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

*****End*****<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0 There’s more than meets the eye when a man named Charles Dumont and his ward appear at the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0\u00a0 (29,550 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10338,"featured_media":15127,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23],"tags":[14,15,17,16],"class_list":["post-13943","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-hoss","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1634,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/New-Orleans.jpg?fit=1159%2C1023&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13943","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/10338"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=13943"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13943\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/15127"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=13943"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=13943"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=13943"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}