{"id":13965,"date":"2004-12-12T16:41:27","date_gmt":"2004-12-12T21:41:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13965"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:09:15","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:09:15","slug":"one-night-in-bear-river-by-susan-g","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13965","title":{"rendered":"One Night in Bear River (by Susan G)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 <\/strong>Having delivered the herd, the Cartwrights were only planning to spend one night in town before heading home.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 (6,960 words)<\/p>\n

One Night in Bear River<\/strong><\/p>\n

No one paid any attention to the four men who walked into the crowded saloon. The people of Bear River, Utah, were used to trail hands enjoying themselves after delivering their herd to one of the local cattle buyers. These four appeared no different than the usual cowhands looking for a cold beer and a good time. No one recognized Ben Cartwright or his three sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFour beers,\u201d ordered Ben as he stepped up to the bar.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, that had to be the orneriest bunch of steers we ever herded,\u201d Hoss declared as he waited for his beer. \u201cI must have roped and dragged at least twenty of \u2018em back to the herd.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think you roped the same steer twenty times,\u201d observed Adam with a smile. \u201cThat cow with the blaze on his side had a mind of his own.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s somebody else\u2019s problem now,\u201d Ben said as he began sipping beer from one of the mugs the bartender had delivered. \u201cI\u2019m just happy to have that herd delivered and the money in the bank.\u201d \u00a0A look of pride came over his face as Ben gazed at his three sons. \u201cYou boys did a good job. We got the herd here on time and didn\u2019t lose a single steer. You deserve a night of celebration.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA night? Is that all?\u201d asked Joe in a surprised voice. \u201cI figured we\u2019d spend a couple of days here in Bear River.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOne night, that\u2019s all,\u201d Ben answered firmly. \u201cTomorrow we start for home. Hop Sing and the rest of the trail hands left two days ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, they didn\u2019t have to nursemaid that herd while you were waiting for the buyer,\u201d Joe protested mildly. \u201cThey all got to do their celebrating as soon as we hit town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just wanted to take advantage of your talents, Joseph,\u201d Ben told his son with a smile. \u201cYou are an excellent nursemaid\u2026at least, when it comes to cows.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think a good nursemaid deserves at least two nights to relax?\u201d Joe asked hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOne night,\u201d Ben decreed once more, \u201cthat\u2019s all you get. I suggest you make the most of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, in that case, I\u2019d better get into a poker game right now,\u201d Adam told his father. Picking up his beer mug, he surveyed the saloon for a moment, and then headed for a table where four men were holding cards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe, I\u2019m just gonna find a comfortable chair where I can sit and drink my beer and not have to think about nothing,\u201d Hoss stated. He looked around, then pointed toward an empty table near the side wall. \u201cThat\u2019s where I\u2019ll be if you want me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll join you, Hoss,\u201d said Ben, smiling. He turned to his youngest son. \u201cHow about it, Joe? Want to come sit with us?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo thanks, Pa,\u201d Joe answered, his eyes fixed on a pretty blonde girl coming down the stairs at the back of the saloon. \u201cI have some other company in mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben followed Joe\u2019s gaze toward the girl now standing seductively at the bottom of the stairs. \u201cYes, I\u2019ll bet you do,\u201d Ben agreed, his smile widening into a grin. He clapped his son lightly on the shoulder. \u201cGood luck.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Pa,\u201d Joe replied in a slightly distracted tone. He straightened his jacket a bit and started across the saloon toward the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched his son for a moment, then shook his head. \u201cAh, to be young again,\u201d he murmured as he walked toward the table which Hoss had claimed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

An hour later, each of the Cartwrights were comfortably seated and enjoying themselves at their respective tables. Adam had accumulated a pile of chips from the poker players sitting with him, while Ben and Hoss were chatting amiably with a local man who had joined them. Joe had worked his charm on the pretty saloon girl; the blonde now had her arm draped around Joe\u2019s shoulder and was leaning close to the handsome cowboy. None of them noticed the man in his mid-twenties, wearing his gun slung low on his hip, who swaggered into the saloon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The girl sitting with Joe saw him, though, and she immediately pulled back from the young man sitting next to her. A puzzled look crossed Joe\u2019s face but before he could say anything, the man who had just entered walked up to the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGlad to see you found someone to amuse yourself with until I got to town, Sally,\u201d the man said with a sneer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Eddie,\u201d replied Sally nervously. \u201cI didn\u2019t expect to see you tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, here I am,\u201d Eddie declared. \u201cLet\u2019s go find us a little privacy.\u201d He reached down and grabbed the girl\u2019s arm, then yanked her to her feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, let her alone,\u201d Joe yelled, jumping up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s\u2026it\u2019s all right, Joe,\u201d the girl said in a trembling voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it\u2019s not all right,\u201d stated Joe angrily. \u201cThis yahoo walks in and jerks you around like that. That\u2019s no way to treat a lady.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLady? Ha!\u201d exclaimed Eddie derisively. \u201cSally here ain\u2019t nothing by a saloon gal. I just happen to find her entertaining. She knows when I\u2019m in town that she belongs to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe doesn\u2019t belong to anyone,\u201d retorted Joe. \u201cAnd she happens to be with me.<\/p>\n

Why don\u2019t just crawl back to whatever hole you slithered out of and leave us alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMister, you don\u2019t know who you\u2019re messing with,\u201d Eddie warned. \u201cIf you\u2019re smart, you\u2019ll just back off.\u201d He pushed Joe in the chest. \u201cGo find yourself another girl. This one\u2019s mine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet the girl alone,\u201d Joe advised in a threatening voice. \u201cTake your hands off her and walk away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s going to make me?\u201d asked Eddie with a laugh. \u201cYou? I don\u2019t take orders from saddle tramps.\u201d He turned away from Joe, pulling Sally with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reaching out, Joe grabbed Eddie\u2019s arm, jerking the man\u2019s hand away from Sally. Eddie spun around and threw his fist in Joe\u2019s direction. But Joe had anticipated the move and ducked. As he straightened, Joe threw his own fist, landing a solid blow on Eddie\u2019s chin. Eddie staggered back a step and then started toward Joe, fists at the ready. He took another swing at the youngest Cartwright, who twisted away; the blow landed almost harmlessly on Joe\u2019s arm. As Joe turned back, he jabbed his arm forward and his fist connected with the side of Eddie\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The commotion of the fight drew the attention of the other men in the bar, and all of them hurried to watch. Adam was standing a few feet away from the area in which Joe and Eddie were trading punches, observing the action almost indifferently, when he was joined by Hoss and Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLeave it to our little brother to start a rhubarb,\u201d commented Hoss as he watched the fight. \u201cThink we ought to help him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he\u2019s doing fine,\u201d Adam replied as he watched Joe knock the other man over a table and on to the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened? Who started this?\u201d Ben asked, sounding more puzzled than angry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho knows?\u201d answered Adam with a shrug.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Oblivious to the audience which had formed, Joe ducked a punch and thrust his fist into Eddie\u2019s mid-section. As his opponent bent forward, Joe threw an uppercut which snapped the man\u2019s head back. Eddie reeled for a moment and then crumpled to the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a minute, Joe stood over the fallen man, breathing hard as he waited to see if Eddie would get to his feet. When his opponent on the floor failed to move, Joe turned and walked away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, just what happened here?\u201d Ben demanded as he stepped forward. He grabbed his son and turned him slowly toward him. Blood was trickling down Joe\u2019s chin from a cut on his lip, and a red spot was forming into a bruise on Joe\u2019s cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, um, well, you see, Pa, he\u2026\u201d Joe started and then suddenly stopped. Somehow he knew his explanation would seem pretty feeble. \u201cHe threw the first punch,\u201d Joe finished, sounding a bit defensive.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you threw the last one,\u201d commented Adam dryly. \u201cNice fight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Joe answered, trying to suppress a smile. He looked around the saloon and saw his hat laying on the floor. Walking a few steps, he bent to pick up his hat while his father and brothers headed back to the tables they had abandoned at the start of the fight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe! Watch out!\u201d screamed Sally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking over his shoulder, Joe saw Eddie had gotten to his feet and drawn a gun. Diving forward, Joe felt the impact of a bullet in his back even before he heard the sound of the shot. As he hit the floor, Joe rolled, pulling his own pistol out. He fired his gun and saw his bullet hit Eddie in the chest. Then Joe collapsed onto his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d cried Ben, running across the saloon. Adam and Hoss were right on his heels.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Crouching down, Ben lifted his youngest son\u2019s head and shoulders from the floor. He could see blood oozing out of a hole in the front of Joe\u2019s jacket and could feel the sticky substance trickling out of another in Joe\u2019s back. \u201cThe bullet went right through his shoulder,\u201d Ben declared anxiously. He turned and called over his shoulder. \u201cSomebody get a doctor! Quick!!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere Pa, take this.\u201d Hoss offered his father a clean handkerchief he had pulled from his pocked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding a distracted thanks, Ben stuck the cloth under Joe\u2019s shirt and jacket, pressing it against the wound in his son\u2019s back. Slowly, he eased Joe down to the floor, hoping that lying on the wound would put enough pressure on it to stop the bleeding. Ben untied the bandana from around his neck and pressed it under Joe\u2019s shirt in the front.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe other one\u2019s dead,\u201d Adam announced as he knelt next to his father. \u201cThe doctor\u2019s on his way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLay still, Joe,\u201d Ben murmured to his youngest son. \u201cThe doctor will be here in a minute. Just lay still.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Ben\u2019s advice was unneeded. As the blood flowed out of his shoulder, Joe laid unconscious on the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

A small, thin man in his early forties rushed into the saloon, carrying a black satchel in his hand. He stopped briefly to bend over the body lying near the bar; after feeling the man\u2019s neck for a moment in a vain attempt to find a pulse, he straightened and hurried toward the back of the saloon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Doctor William Boyd,\u201d declared the man as he pushed his way through the crowd of on-lookers and knelt on the floor near Joe\u2019s head. \u201cHow bad is he hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe bullet went through his shoulder, I think,\u201d Ben answered in a shaky voice. \u201cHe\u2019s bleeding and he hasn\u2019t regained consciousness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pulling open Joe\u2019s shirt, the doctor examined the wound in the front, then turned Joe slightly on his side. Doctor Boyd tugged the shirt and jacket off the young man\u2019s shoulder and inspected the hole in Joe\u2019s back. \u201cHe was shot in the back,\u201d the doctor muttered. \u201cThe exit wound is in the front.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor, how is he?\u201d Ben asked anxiously as he watched the doctor laid Joe back onto the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ignoring Ben\u2019s question, Doctor Boyd placed two fingers against Joe\u2019s neck and felt the young man\u2019s pulse. Giving a satisfied nod, he moved his hand to Joe\u2019s chest and rested it there. After a minute or so, the doctor finally turned to the worried-looking man crouching next to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHis pulse is strong, and his breathing is regular,\u201d Doctor Boyd told Ben. \u201cHe\u2019s bleeding but not so badly that it can\u2019t be stopped. Let\u2019s get him over to my office so I can stitch him up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Standing, the doctor took a step back so that Ben, Adam and Hoss could lift Joe from the floor. \u201cMy office is straight down the street, near the end of town,\u201d Doctor Boyd told the three men who were carrying the injured one. \u201cI\u2019ll be right behind you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the doctor started to follow the men out of the saloon, he was stopped by Sally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoc, you know who he killed, don\u2019t you?\u201d the blonde girl asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know,\u201d Doctor Boyd replied in an even voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you know you have to get him out of town right away,\u201d Sally went on. \u201cIf he\u2019s still here when Eddie\u2019 father gets to town, Mr. Milton will kill him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d the doctor repeated. He sighed. \u201cI\u2019ll patch him up and send him on his way. There\u2019s a chance he could bleed to death or die of an infection on the road, but I suppose that\u2019s better than having no chance at all against Milton and his men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s taking so long?\u201d asked Hoss as he paced the length of the waiting room outside the doctor\u2019s surgery. Ben and Adam looked over at the big man walking nervously around the room. Hoss had been fretting over Joe since they had carried the youngest Cartwright into the office about twenty minutes ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure the doctor is doing a thorough job,\u201d Adam told his brother in a soothing voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said all he had to do was stitch Joe up,\u201d Hoss continued in his complaint. \u201cWhy\u2019d we have to wait out here? Why couldn\u2019t we be in there with him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou saw his surgery, Hoss,\u201d Ben answered as calmly as possible. \u201cIt\u2019s not very big. The three of us in there would have made it too crowded.\u201d Silently, Ben was asking the same questions as his middle son, but knew that anxiety rather than rational thinking was forming those thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As if in response to Hoss\u2019 grumbling, the door from the surgery opened, and Doctor Boyd walked out. \u201cMr. Cartwright, your son will be just fine,\u201d he announced. Hasty introductions had been made when Joe was being carried to his office. None of the Cartwrights noticed the relieved look on the doctor\u2019s face when he realized the wounded young man was accompanied by his father and brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe bullet missed the bone and went through the fleshy part of his shoulder,\u201d Doctor Boyd went on. \u201cThe wound is clean, and though he lost some blood, it\u2019s not enough to be considered serious. He should recover fully.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, doctor,\u201d Ben said in a relieved voice. \u201cCan we see him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn a minute,\u201d the doctor replied. He looked down for a moment and then raised his eyes to meet Ben\u2019s. \u201cI need to talk to you about something first.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d asked Hoss anxiously. \u201cI thought you said that Joe was going to be all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe will be all right,\u201d Doctor Boyd assured the big man. He looked around the room and then added, \u201cHe\u2019ll be all right, that is, if you get him out of town right now. You need to put him in a wagon and start traveling immediately.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStart traveling immediately?\u201d repeated Adam with a frown. \u201cHe was shot. Surely he can\u2019t be ready to travel yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUnder normal circumstances, I\u2019d agree,\u201d admitted the doctor. \u201cBut these aren\u2019t normal circumstances.\u201d Doctor Boyd took a deep breath, and then continued. \u201cThe man Joe killed is Eddie Milton. Sam Milton, Eddie\u2019s father, will be coming to town with his men as soon as he hears about Eddie. And Sam won\u2019t leave until he gets revenge for his son\u2019s death. He\u2019ll kill Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKill Joe? Why?\u201d Ben asked in a confused tone. \u201cJoe shot in self-defense. He was already wounded when he fired back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d the doctor acknowledged, \u201cbut that won\u2019t make any difference to Sam Milton.\u201d\u00a0 He shook his head ruefully. \u201cSam Milton is the big man in this territory. He owns the biggest ranch and has a part interest several businesses. The cattle buyers lease their pens and grazing land from him. Sam provides the funds needed to run the school and the church. He pretty much oversees everything that happens around here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about the law?\u201d asked Adam angrily. \u201cDoes he oversee that too?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen he wants to,\u201d Doctor Boyd admitted. \u201cOur sheriff is pretty good about keeping order and arresting drunks, unless they happen to be one of Milton\u2019s men. Then he turns them over to Sam to handle. The sheriff wouldn\u2019t stand up to Milton to defend anyone in town. He\u2019s certainly not going to do it for a stranger.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about the people in this town? Are they all as spineless as the sheriff or can we get some help from them?\u201d Hoss demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Runnin his hand through his hair, the doctor tried to find the words to explain. \u201cIt\u2019s not like Sam is a tyrant or abuses people. He pays a fair price for what he buys and pays his bills on time. His son Eddie was a nasty piece of work \u2013 a real bully \u2013 but Sam is an honorable man in his own way. He doesn\u2019t take advantage of people. He just expects that he\u2019ll get whatever he wants. People in this town have learned that it\u2019s easier to let Sam Milton do what he pleases. There\u2019s nothing to be gained by fighting him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d said Ben in an even voice. \u201cSo as long as Sam Milton doesn\u2019t bother them, the people in Bear River let him do whatever he wants.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s about the size of it,\u201d acknowledged Doctor Boyd. \u201cBut we\u2019re wasting time. You have to get Joe out of town now, while it\u2019s still dark. You need to be long gone by the time Sam Milton and his men get here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a moment, the Cartwrights were silent, each weighing the doctor\u2019s words in their own mind. Finally, Ben asked in an almost polite voice, \u201cMay I see my son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d replied the doctor. He walked back to the surgery door, followed by Ben, Adam and Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lying bare-chested on a table, Joe appeared almost as pale as the thick bandage wrapped around his right shoulder and the white sheet which covered the table. His eyes were closed, and his breathing was shallow. If Ben hadn\u2019t known better, he might have thought his son was dead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe? Joe, can you hear me?\u201d Ben asked in a quiet voice as he stroked his son\u2019s head. He was rewarded by a pair of eyes fluttering open and a mouth forming into the hint of a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Pa,\u201d answered Joe in a weak voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you feeling, Joe?\u201d asked Ben, his voice still soft.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m pretty sore,\u201d Joe admitted, \u201cand pretty tired.\u201d He looked past his father to where Hoss and Adam were standing. \u201cGuess I messed up our one night in Bear River.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, Joe, it weren\u2019t your fault,\u201d Hoss told his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was about ready to collect my winnings and leave that poker game anyhow,\u201d Adam added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d Joe said apologetically. He looked back to his father. \u201cI\u2019m really sorry, Pa. Things just\u2026just got out of hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about it now,\u201d Ben replied, still stroking Joe\u2019s head. \u201cYou just get some rest.\u201d He watched Joe closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep. Then he turned and called softly over his shoulder. \u201cDoctor? Joe feels warm. I think he\u2019s running a fever.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Quickly, Doctor Boyd moved to the table and placed his hand on Joe\u2019s forehead. He left it there a moment, and then glanced at Ben. \u201cHe\u2019s a little warm,\u201d the doctor admitted, \u201cbut it\u2019s nothing to be concerned about. His body is just reacting to the injury, the shock of getting shot and then having me sew up his shoulder. All he needs is a little rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s something he\u2019s not likely to get on the trail, is it, doctor?\u201d Adam observed in an accusing tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the first time, Doctor Boyd looked unsure of himself. His gaze fixed on Joe for a moment before he turned to Ben. \u201cLet\u2019s talk outside,\u201d the doctor said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once in the waiting room, Doctor Boyd faced the three Cartwrights, but before he could say anything, Ben held up his hand. \u201cMy son obviously is not ready to travel yet, and I\u2019m not taking him anywhere until he is,\u201d Ben stated in a determined voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, you don\u2019t understand,\u201d the doctor replied in an exasperated voice. \u201cIf you don\u2019t get Joe out of town, Sam Milton will kill him. Yes, there are some risks in moving him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat kinds of risks?\u201d Adam interrupted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026there\u2019s always the danger of infection,\u201d admitted Doctor Boyd reluctantly. \u201cHe\u2019s weak, and if he does develop an infection, he might not have the strength to fight it off. The wound could break open and start bleeding again. He\u2019s lost some blood already and it could be dangerous if he loses a lot more.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you want us to take my little brother out on a rough, dusty road and just cross our fingers that it don\u2019t kill him?\u201d asked Hoss incredulously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAt least, once he\u2019s out of town, Joe has a chance of surviving,\u201d the doctor answered. \u201cIf he stays in town, Sam Milton will kill him for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just what makes you think that those yahoos won\u2019t come after us?\u201d Hoss asked in a skeptical voice. \u201cIf this Sam Milton is so intent on killing Joe, I don\u2019t think us leaving town will discourage him much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll delay him somehow,\u201d Doctor Boyd promised. \u201cI don\u2019t know how, but I\u2019ll think of something. Maybe get him to think you\u2019re hiding Joe in town someplace. If you have a couple of hours head start, you might be able to get to a place where you can hide for awhile, someplace where he\u2019ll never find you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou want us to risk Joe\u2019s life on the chance that we might be able to hide somewhere Milton and his men won\u2019t find us?\u201d Ben said, shaking his head. \u201cI don\u2019t much care for that idea. If they catch up with us out in the open, we\u2019ll have very little chance of fighting them off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll have no chance if you stay here!\u201d cried Doctor Boyd. \u201cDon\u2019t you understand? Milton will have twenty men with him, maybe more. You\u2019ll never be able to hold them back. They\u2019ll either kill you or tie you up someplace where you can watch Sam Milton hang your son!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor\u2019s impassioned words finally made an impact on the Cartwrights. Ben, Adam and Hoss stood silently as they considered the gravity of the situation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want to do, Pa?\u201d Adam finally asked quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Brows furrowed in thought, Ben shook his head. \u201cI don\u2019t know, Adam,\u201d he admitted. He looked toward the doctor. \u201cHow long do we have?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t tell you for sure,\u201d Doctor Boyd replied. \u201cA couple of hours. Maybe longer. But Milton and his men certainly will be here by dawn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding, Ben turned to Adam and Hoss. \u201cAdam, go over to the hotel and collect our gear,\u201d Ben ordered. \u201cHoss, you go to the livery stable. Saddle our horses and bring them here. Then buy a wagon or buckboard or whatever they have and a couple of horses to pull it. Bring the wagon over here too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe gonna make a run for it?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure yet,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cBut I want to be ready to go, if that\u2019s what we decide.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll head over to the livery to help Hoss as soon as I\u2019ve picked up our gear,\u201d Adam offered. \u201cIt will be faster if two of us are saddling the horses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood idea,\u201d Ben agreed. He watched as his older sons walked quickly out of the doctor\u2019s office. Then he turned to Doctor Boyd. \u201cTell me more about Sam Milton,\u201d he requested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

The light from the sun was barely visible when Hoss came running down the street toward the doctor\u2019s office. \u201cHere they come!\u201d Hoss shouted to his father and brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Standing in front of the office, Ben and Adam cocked the rifles in their hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow many?\u201d Adam asked coolly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTwenty, maybe twenty-five men,\u201d Hoss answered. \u201cI didn\u2019t hang around long enough to count them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRemember what I said, boys,\u201d Ben cautioned his sons. \u201cNo shooting unless we have to. I want to try to talk Milton out of this if I can.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf the bullets do start flying, head for the wagon,\u201d Adam reminded his father and brother, tilting his head a bit toward a wagon parked at the side of the building. \u201cThat will offer the best protection.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll remember,\u201d Hoss acknowledged with a nod. \u201cYou just remember to shoot fast and straight. We ain\u2019t letting any of them get to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, none of them will get to Joe,\u201d Adam agreed grimly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Just then, a large number of men on horses rode down the street and pulled to a stop in front of the doctor\u2019s office. The man in front of the horde was about fifty, wearing a white shirt, tan vest and black pants. His long white hair cascaded down from under his hat, stopping about mid-ear, and his neatly trimmed white beard and mustache contrasted sharply with the tan, leathery-looking skin of his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you Sam Milton?\u201d Ben asked in a loud voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am,\u201d the leader replied. \u201cWho are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Ben Cartwright, and these are my two sons,\u201d Ben stated calmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen Cartwright, eh? I\u2019ve heard of you,\u201d Milton acknowledged. \u201cYou have a big spread in northern Nevada.\u201d A puzzled look crossed his face. \u201cWhat are you doing here? Why are you protecting the man inside?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe man inside the doctor\u2019s office is my youngest son, Joseph,\u201d Ben explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour son?\u201d Milton sounded surprised. \u201cYour son is the one who murdered my boy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy son is the one who shot your boy in self-defense,\u201d Ben clarified. \u201cHe only fired after your boy had put a bullet in his back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Frowning, Milton turned to the rider on his left. \u201cIs that what happened, Bryant?\u201d he asked the man. \u201cYou were there. Tell me the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yeah, I guess,\u201d Bryant admitted nervously. \u201cI mean, Eddie did shoot at the guy in the saloon, but I don\u2019t think he was trying to kill him or anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I don\u2019t think my son meant to kill yours,\u201d Ben declared. \u201cIt may have been just bad luck that your son\u2019s bullet hit Joseph in the back, and that Joe\u2019s bullet killed your son. An unfortunate set of events. Why don\u2019t we agree on that, and you can go home to mourn your son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a moment, Sam Milton looked thoughtful, obviously digesting some new information. Then he shook his head. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Mr. Cartwright; I can\u2019t agree to that. My son, my only son, is dead and someone has to be punished for his death. An eye for an eye, the Bible says.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Bible also says that \u2018Vengeance is mine, says the Lord\u2019. Why don\u2019t we let a higher power decide who was right and who was wrong,\u201d agued Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I AM the higher power in this territory,\u201d Milton replied grimly. \u201cAnd I\u2019ve decided the man who killed my son must pay for it with his life. Now step aside, Mr. Cartwright, or my men will shoot down you and your other sons.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Ben declared, raising his rifle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly, the door to the doctor\u2019s office opened, and Doctor Boyd rushed out. \u201cHold it!\u201d he yelled. \u201cNo one shoot! There\u2019s no need! Do you hear me? There\u2019s no need for anyone to start shooting!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you talking about, doctor?\u201d Adam asked, his eyes still fixed on the men in front of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no need for any more bloodshed,\u201d the doctor said in a calmer voice. He turned toward Ben. \u201cMr. Cartwright, I\u2019m sorry, but your son is dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat!\u201d exclaimed Ben, swiveling around to face the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour son is dead,\u201d Doctor Boyd repeated. \u201cHe died just a few minutes ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s can\u2019t be!\u201d shouted Hoss in a shocked voice. \u201cYou said he was going to be all right. You said he was going to be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d Adam asked, sounding equally as stunned as his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know for sure,\u201d Doctor Boyd admitted. \u201cPerhaps a blood clot, or shock or a bad heart.\u201d The doctor shrugged. \u201cThese things happen. We often don\u2019t know why.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Without saying a word, Ben walked in rapid steps past the doctor and into the office. Adam and Hoss hurried after their father, with the doctor following at a slower pace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Atop his horse, Sam Milton looked pensive. Then he turned to his left. \u201cBryant, Johnson, you come with me. I want to see for myself that boy is dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three men dismounted and strode into the office. They walked through the waiting room and into the surgery, stopping just inside the door. Milton watched the scene unfolding in front of him with narrow eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was bending over the body of his son, still lying on the sheet-covered table. Another sheet covered Joe up to his neck. Ben was slowly stroking his son\u2019s head and murmuring Joe\u2019s name over and over. Adam and Hoss stood a few feet behind their father; both their faces were twisted in grief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Taking a step closer, Milton could see the ashen skin on the body lying on the table. He watched carefully but could see no evidence of the young man\u2019s chest rising and falling, nor any other sign of movement. He started to take another step forward, but stopped when Ben turned to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t come any closer,\u201d Ben shouted at Milton angrily. \u201cI don\u2019t want you anywhere near my son. I don\u2019t want anyone named Milton touching him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just want to see for myself that your son is dead,\u201d Milton replied in an almost sympathetic voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s dead,\u201d the doctor confirmed. Doctor Boyd gently pushed Ben\u2019s hand away, then reached down and pulled the sheet up from Joe\u2019s chest, covering the young man\u2019s face and head. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d the doctor said regretfully. \u201cI did everything I could for him. I really did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben agreed in a grief-stricken voice. He took a deep breath. \u201cI want to take my boy home and bury him on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d Doctor Boyd agreed. \u201cI\u2019ll prepare him for the trip.\u201d He turned to look at Milton. \u201cSam, the boy is dead. Go home and mourn your own son, and let Mr. Cartwright mourn his.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a hesitant expression on his face, Milton surveyed the room. He saw Ben standing with his head down, his hand over his eyes. Hoss, also with his head down, had his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder, while Adam was just staring at the body on the table with an uncomprehending look. Milton\u2019s eyes moved to the covered body on the table, and then to the doctor standing calmly next to it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Lord has taken his vengeance,\u201d Milton declared finally. \u201cMy son is dead and the man who killed him is dead. There\u2019s nothing more to be done.\u201d He turned to the two men standing behind him. \u201cLet\u2019s go home,\u201d Milton said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The four men standing around the table stood in a frozen tableau while Milton and his men strode out of the office. No one moved until the sound of horses riding away faded into the distance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly, Ben moved forward and pulled the sheet back from Joe\u2019s face. \u201cHow long do we have?\u201d he asked the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAbout four hours,\u201d Doctor Bryant replied. \u201cThat\u2019s as much sedative as I could give him without really killing him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? You mean Joe ain\u2019t dead? He\u2019s alive?\u201d asked Hoss, sounding almost as shocked as when he heard the news of his brother\u2019s death.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s alive,\u201d the doctor confirmed. \u201cJust in a deep sleep, almost a coma. Your father and I wanted Milton to think he was dead, and this is as close as making him look like it as I could manage.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why I didn\u2019t let Milton get any closer than he did,\u201d added Ben. \u201cI didn\u2019t want him to feel for a pulse or see that Joe was still breathing. I wanted him to believe Joe was dead without checking for himself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t you tell us?\u201d demanded Adam, sounding more than a little upset. \u201cWhy did you let us think Joe was dead?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I wasn\u2019t sure how good an actor you or Hoss might be,\u201d Ben explained calmly. \u201cI needed Milton to think Joe was really dead, and I couldn\u2019t take the chance that one of you might give it away.\u201d He shook his head regretfully. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if Milton hadn\u2019t stopped when you told him?\u201d Adam pressed on. \u201cWhat if he had insisted on checking for himself?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I probably would have declared a miracle had occurred,\u201d Doctor Boyd said with a grin. \u201cThe dead came back to life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I would have grabbed Milton and held him as a hostage until we got Joe out of town,\u201d Ben added in a sober voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou took a big risk, Pa,\u201d Adam pointed out. \u201cA big risk.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs long as Joe\u2019s alive, nothing else matters,\u201d Hoss declared with a smile on his face. \u201cWhat do we do now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf I know Sam Milton, he\u2019s got some of his men outside watching,\u201d the doctor advised. \u201cSo we need to wrap Joe up in a sheet and carry him out to the wagon. Then you need to leave immediately. Milton\u2019s men will probably follow you for awhile but I\u2019m sure they\u2019ll give up long before Joe starts waking up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShouldn\u2019t we get a coffin from the undertaker?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, that would take too much time,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cBesides, I want to be able to keep an eye on Joe, to make sure he\u2019s all right and to know when he starts waking up. I don\u2019t want him waking up in a coffin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute,\u201d argued Adam. \u201cWon\u2019t that sheet smother Joe? And won\u2019t his riding in the back of the wagon be dangerous? You said last night that his wound could start bleeding or he could pick up an infection.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe sheet is very thin, and we\u2019ll cut some air holes in it. I\u2019ll make them look like moth holes, in case anyone gets close enough to see them,\u201d Doctor Boyd answered. \u201cHe won\u2019t have any trouble breathing through it. His breathing will be very shallow until the sedative wears off, anyway. I\u2019ve checked his shoulder, and the wound is healing nicely. I\u2019ve wrapped enough bandages around his shoulder to cushion it. There\u2019s always a chance of picking up an infection, of course, but Joe\u2019s had a lot of rest and he\u2019s much stronger. I think the risk from infection is minimal.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to drive that wagon slowly,\u201d Ben added. \u201cMilton\u2019s men won\u2019t think there\u2019s anything strange about that, and that will make the ride easier for Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood looking thoughtful for a moment, and then slowly nodded his head. \u201cWe\u2019d better getting moving,\u201d he said forcefully. \u201cWe don\u2019t have a lot of time to waste.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

With Bear River far behind him, Ben drove the wagon slowly down the dirt road, doing his best to avoid any ruts and debris scattered across the thoroughfare. Adam and Hoss rode on either side, keeping an eye on Joe as well as watching for the three men who had been following them earlier. Joe\u2019s pinto and Ben\u2019s buckskin horses trailed along behind, tied to the back of the wagon. Wrapped in a sheet from head to toe, Joe laid on the wagon bed as still and quiet as he had been in the doctor\u2019s office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d called Adam, \u201cI haven\u2019t seen any sign of Milton\u2019s men for the last three or four miles. I think they\u2019ve given up. We\u2019ve been traveling for over three hours, and Joe should be waking up soon. We need to get him out of those sheets before he comes to.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI agree with Adam,\u201d Hoss added. \u201cI think we should stop and check on Joe. He ain\u2019t moved since we left Bear River. I\u2019m getting kinda worried about him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s find some rocks or something we can pull the wagon behind before we stop,\u201d Ben called back to his sons. \u201cMilton\u2019s men could be still be in area. I don\u2019t want to make it easy for them if they\u2019re watching from someplace.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ten minutes past before Ben spotted what he considered an ideal place to pull off the road \u2013 four thick trees growing in front of two large boulders. He quickly guided the wagon behind the rocks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you keep watch for any sign of Milton\u2019s men,\u201d Ben ordered as he halted the wagon. \u201cHoss, grab a canteen and then come help me with Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Climbing into the back of the wagon, Ben quickly began unwrapping the sheet from around Joe. He heard, rather than saw, Hoss clamber into the wagon next to him. A worried frown grew on Ben\u2019s face as he uncovered his youngest son. Joe\u2019s skin was much too pale and his face much too still for Ben\u2019s taste. He pressed his hand against Joe\u2019s chest, and was reassured to feel it steadily rising and falling. Putting two fingers on his son\u2019s neck, Ben felt the pulse of a strongly beating heart. He noted with satisfaction that there was no sign of blood seeping through the thick bandage wrapped around Joe\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow is he?\u201d Hoss asked anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s all right,\u201d Ben answered, trying not to sound as relieved as he felt. He lightly patted Joe\u2019s cheek. \u201cCome on, Joe, time to wake up. Do you hear me, son? Time to wake up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Joe continued to lie still, showing no reaction to his father\u2019s voice or touch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGive me the canteen,\u201d Ben requested. He took the container Hoss offered, and uncorking it, poured enough water on to the edge of the sheet to soak it. Ben wiped the wet cloth across Joe\u2019s forehead and cheeks, repeating Joe\u2019s name as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally, Joe began to stir. His head moved slightly, and his mouth began to work. He grunted softly as his eyelids started to flutter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lifting Joe\u2019s head, Ben trickled a bit of water onto Joe\u2019s lips and into his mouth. When this tiny amount was swallowed by his son, Ben let a little more water flow from the canteen. Joe swallowed it easily, and his eyes began to open.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a bewildered look on his face, Joe stared at his father for a moment, as if both trying to figure whose face was only inches from his and why it was there. He blinked a few times before finally murmuring in a slurred voice, \u201cPa? Is\u2026that you\u2026Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it\u2019s me,\u201d Ben replied with a smile. He laid Joe back down onto the wagon bed. \u201cHow are you feeling, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSleepy,\u201d admitted Joe, his eyes half-closing. He shifted his body a bit. \u201cAnd sore. My back hurts.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe weren\u2019t able to give you a very comfortable ride,\u201d Ben said, sounding slightly apologetic. \u201cI\u2019m sorry about that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all right,\u201d Joe\u2019s comment sounded like more like a reflex answer than a thoughtful response. His eyes began to close again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you have to stay awake for awhile,\u201d Ben told his youngest son, tapping him lightly on the cheek. \u201cCome on, Joe. Stay with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding slightly, Joe forced his eyes open once more. He began to look around, and took note of the blue sky overhead and the sun shining down on him. \u201cWhere are we?\u201d he asked in a confused voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn the middle of nowhere,\u201d Hoss answered with a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re on our way home,\u201d Ben added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Frowning a bit, Joe tried to make his seemly thick brain understand. Then he gave his father a small, half smile. \u201cYou weren\u2019t kidding about spending only one night in Bear River, were you, Pa?\u201d Joe observed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly Adam\u2019s face appeared over the side of the wagon. \u201cNo sign of Milton\u2019s men,\u201d he reported to Ben. \u201cHow\u2019s Joe doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right, just a little sore,\u201d Joe answered for his father. He fixed his gaze on Adam. \u201cWho\u2019s Milton?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone who thinks you\u2019re dead,\u201d Adam replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Quickly, Ben recounted to Joe the events of the past few hours. As he listened, Joe\u2019s expression went from a concerned frown at the thought of the confrontation his family almost faced to an amused look as he heard of his \u201cdeath\u201d.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo I\u2019m dead, uh?\u201d Joe noted with a grin. \u201cI always thought you\u2019d give me a big funeral, not haul me across the desert.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLittle brother, you oughta be happy you\u2019re alive out here in the middle of nowhere,\u201d Hoss told Joe. \u201cYou came real close to spending eternity in that town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I know,\u201d Joe replied, his face sobering. \u201cThanks.\u201d He looked at his father and brother in turn, then repeated, \u201cThanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get you a little more comfortable,\u201d Ben said, brushing off his son\u2019s gratitude.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he watched his father move a bedroll to pillow Joe\u2019s head and his brother unfurl another bedroll so he could cover Joe, Adam observed, \u201cYou know, Joe, you can never go back to Bear River.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s fine with me,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cI\u2019ve had enough of that town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think we\u2019ve all had enough of Bear River to last a lifetime,\u201d Ben added. He stroked the top of Joe\u2019s head lightly, and then patted Joe\u2019s uninjured shoulder lightly. He watched Joe for a moment as one last wave of relief surged through him. Then he straightened his shoulders. \u201cCome on, boys, we need to get moving,\u201d Ben announced. \u201cYou\u2019ve had your one night in Bear River. It\u2019s time to go home.\u201d<\/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 Having delivered the herd, the Cartwrights were only planning to spend one night in town before heading home.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 (6,960 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10338,"featured_media":13967,"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":[23,41],"tags":[14,15,17,16],"class_list":["post-13965","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-hoss","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2001,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Bear-River.png?fit=527%2C527&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":14013,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14013","url_meta":{"origin":13965,"position":0},"title":"Black and Gold (by AC1830)","author":"AC1830","date":"April 10, 2017","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0\u00a0Rumors and sightings are flying around town about a dark creature roaming the hills of the Ponderosa. \u00a0Will the Cartwrights find out what it is? \u00a0What is Adam\u2019s connection to the creature? 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As he fights for his life, Little Joe also fights with the knowledge that his attackers have seemingly gotten away with their crimes Rated: G (18,330 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/feature-4.jpg?fit=387%2C387&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":14984,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14984","url_meta":{"origin":13965,"position":3},"title":"Too Good a Day (by Starlite)","author":"starlite","date":"September 14, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0How do the Cartwrights enjoy a nice spring day? Rated:\u00a0 G (2,050 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/laketahoe.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/laketahoe.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/laketahoe.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/laketahoe.jpg?fit=960%2C640&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":18230,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=18230","url_meta":{"origin":13965,"position":4},"title":"Gusty Gumption (by PSW)","author":"PSW","date":"August 19, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: A little vignette following (at some point later) the events of 'A Dime's Worth of Glory'. Written for the Sept 1 Pinecone challenge and expanded for inclusion here. 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