{"id":15572,"date":"2017-10-30T20:00:06","date_gmt":"2017-10-31T00:00:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15572"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:41:01","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:41:01","slug":"thirty-six-ways-to-get-out-of-trouble-mcfair_58","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15572","title":{"rendered":"Thirty-Six Ways to Get Out of Trouble (by McFair_58)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Continuing the story of Ben and Rosey O’ Rourke.\u00a0 In this sequel to ‘Keep Your Eyes on the Sun’, things seem normal at the Ponderosa ranch.\u00a0 Ben, Adam and Hoss are hard at work and Little Joe is in trouble.\u00a0 What Joe’s family cannot know is that his trouble will soon draw them into a war that will end only when the victor possesses an ancient Chinese stone that, unbeknownst to them, has come to the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

Rated PG-13 for typical western violence and bad guy brutality.<\/p>\n

Word count: 83,100<\/p>\n

Blood and Bread Series<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

Blood and Bread<\/a>
\nKeep Your Eyes on the Sun<\/a>
\nThirty-Six Ways to Get Out of Trouble<\/a>
\nAn Unspeakable Dawn<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thirty Six Ways to Get Out of Trouble<\/p>\n

\u2018Of all 36 ways to get out of trouble, the best way is \u2013 leave.\u2019 Chinese proverb<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

PROLOGUE<\/p>\n

A furtive figure hugged the shadows, quickly making its way along the edge of one of Eagle Station\u2019s side streets.\u00a0 Though the settlement had grown and prospered in the last few years with the passage to, and then occupancy of men seeking their fortunes, it was far from being a town.<\/p>\n

What could one say about a place that got its name from a man shooting an eagle off of the trading post wall?<\/p>\n

Not much.<\/p>\n

And yet, it had potential.\u00a0 Only this year Abraham Curry had talked of buying the trading post with its outlying businesses and scattered, hastily erected homes.\u00a0 Curry believed that the rag-tag collection of squalid buildings \u2013 along with the few finer ones \u2013 would one day become the state capital, and to this effect he had left a ten acre plaza at its center as he laid out his plans.\u00a0 On the edge of that plaza there were several stores, one of which bore the name \u2018Tomorrow\u2019s Flower Milliners\u2019.<\/em><\/p>\n

It was this shop that was the secretive figure\u2019s destination.<\/p>\n

The woman\u2019s pallid hand clutched the collar of her midnight-black cloak, seeking to draw it closer to stave off the rain that had ridden the day into the falling night.\u00a0 While the afternoon had been chilly, the evening was just plain cold.\u00a0 The settlement badly needed the rain, but \u2013 of course \u2013 this being Eagle Station, it couldn\u2019t attract what the local natives called a \u2018female\u2019 rain.\u00a0 That is, one that made things grow.\u00a0 No, this was a hard \u2018male\u2019 rain, as hard as the besotted and bewhiskered men it pelted, and it had turned the streets to mud.<\/p>\n

Pausing at the end of the street that held the millinery shop, the cloaked woman glanced down at the heavily embroidered silk shoes she wore.\u00a0 They were ruined.<\/p>\n

Much as her life was ruined.<\/p>\n

Much as, she feared, her shame would ruin Ming-hua\u2019s.<\/p>\n

With a sigh the desperate woman began to move again, stopping when she came to rest beneath the sign that hung above the millinery. There was a light in the shop.\u00a0 It shone out onto the night, casting weird shadows on the weather-beaten boardwalk that fronted the establishment. The woman stepped back into the shadows as someone came to the door, rattled the handle as if checking to see that it was locked and then, satisfied, retreated.\u00a0 Drawing a breath, she held it until she was sure they would not return and then stepped into the light.\u00a0 A moment later she reached into her cloak and drew out an envelope.\u00a0 Tears filled her eyes and fell to wet her cheeks as she looked at it.<\/p>\n

Once it was delivered there would be no going back.<\/p>\n

Before she could change her mind, the woman knelt and thrust the envelope beneath the door.<\/p>\n

Then she ran.<\/p>\n

Through the rain and into the shadows lining the street she ran, reaching them just as the shop door opened.\u00a0 Clutching the hood of her cloak about her face, the woman turned back.<\/p>\n

Shame over took her.\u00a0 What had she done?\u00a0 Why had she done it?<\/p>\n

Should<\/em> she have done it?<\/p>\n

With a sigh, she admitted it did not matter.\u00a0 In the end, there was no choice.<\/p>\n

\u2018Man has a thousand plans\u2019, her mother had taught her.\u00a0 \u2018Heaven but one.\u2019<\/p>\n

She could only pray that one<\/em> agreed with her own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ONE<\/p>\n

\u201cNow where you s\u2019pose that little brother of ours done run off to?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright reined in his horse.\u00a0 He leaned forward, resting his hands on the saddle horn and looked at his brother.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t know where the kid is, but he\u2019s going to want to stay there.\u00a0 Pa was madder than a peeled rattler when Lacey Evans came by to pick up that mare her husband chose for her and she gave Pa that note from Miss Jones.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head slowly from side to side.\u00a0 \u201cThat boy\u2019s like a flat smooth stone when it comes to skippin\u2019 school this year.\u201d<\/p>\n

The black-haired man actually had some sympathy for his little brother.\u00a0 Though education was like breathing to him \u2013 he couldn\u2019t exist without it \u2013 fifteen-year-old Little Joe loved the life of a cowboy and longed to be free of the classroom and counted as one of the men.<\/p>\n

He remembered that<\/em> kind of growing pain all too well.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s sure<\/em> gonna skin that little cuss alive when we get him back to the Ponderosa,\u201d Hoss went on.\u00a0\u00a0 He paused and then asked, \u201cAdam?\u00a0 You listenin\u2019 to me?\u201d<\/p>\n

He had been, but a sound had caught his attention.\u00a0 It was so out of place that it stopped him cold.\u00a0 His right eye narrowed and he tipped his hat in the direction of the nearby river.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you hear that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss frowned.\u00a0 \u201cHear what?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam held up a hand. \u00a0\u201cListen!\u00a0 Is that…girls giggling?\u201d<\/p>\n

Though their experience with females was pretty much limited to Saturday night parties in Eagle Station, Sunday services, and the occasional young lady who managed to end up as a guest at the ranch house, there was no mistaking that high-pitched, ebullient, and he might dare to add, impish<\/em> sound.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 clear blue eyes narrowed.\u00a0 \u201cNow, what you s\u2019pose some group of fillies is doin\u2019 out here all on their lonesome with the river so nearby?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam straightened up in the saddle.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t think they\u2019re alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNope.\u201d<\/p>\n

It took Hoss a moment, but then he heard it \u2013 another voice, lower in pitch and definitely not<\/em> laughing.\u00a0 A big grin spread over his brother\u2019s beefy face.\u00a0 \u201cWell, if that don\u2019t beat all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam twisted his lips.\u00a0 \u201cDo you think we should go to his rescue?\u201d<\/p>\n

The big man considered it for a moment. \u00a0\u201cI ain\u2019t entirely sure.\u00a0 What\u2019s in it for us?\u201d<\/p>\n

His lips untwisted and settled into a broad rapacious smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I\u2019m sure we can make it worth our while.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019d just wanted to go swimmin\u2019. \u00a0It had been a cold spring so far.\u00a0 In fact the last few days of April had been downright miserable.\u00a0 Today, the clear blue brilliant May day had called to him with a power that had overcome any misgivin\u2019s he had about what the consequences of skipping school yet again<\/em> might be.\u00a0\u00a0 He\u2019d gone to school fully intending to stay there, but the fresh air floatin\u2019 through the open window was a lure Joe Cartwright couldn\u2019t resist.\u00a0 Come lunchtime he\u2019d told Mitch to tell the teacher that he got to feelin\u2019 sick and had gone on home. \u00a0It was perfect.\u00a0 Pa and his older brothers would think he was at school, while Miss Jones would know <\/em>he was at home.\u00a0 He\u2019d just shinny out of his clothes and slip into the river and enjoy floatin\u2019 on his back and starin\u2019 at the sky for a while, and then he\u2019d get dressed and be home before anyone was the wiser.<\/p>\n

Or he would have been if Tory Jennings hadn\u2019t come along with her gosh-darned friends and stole his clothes!<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m waiting, Little Joe,\u201d Tory called in that voice she had that made you feel you\u2019d done somethin\u2019 wrong when you hadn\u2019t done anythin\u2019 at all.\u00a0 \u201cYou promised the last time I saw you that you\u2019d give me a kiss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou better come on out, Little Joe,\u201d Tory\u2019s friend Nabby added.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t no girl gonna spoon with a feller who don\u2019t keep his promises.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ain\u2019t no feller gonna spoon with a girl in his birthday suit neither.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get out when I\u2019m good and ready!\u201d Joe shouted back.\u00a0 He really wanted to get out.\u00a0 Not only was he cold as a day in December, but he\u2019d been treading water so long that his arms and legs felt like he\u2019d been holdin\u2019 onto a rope for hours, waitin\u2019 on some slowpoke ranch hand to hog-tie an ornery steer.\u00a0 On top of that his skin was wrinkled as a sheet in a laundry basket.<\/p>\n

If he didn\u2019t get out of the water soon, he was afraid it might stay that way.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you come out now?\u00a0 I just want to see a lot <\/em>of you like you said I would,\u201d Tory replied, sending her friends into gales of laughter.<\/p>\n

Laughin\u2019 was a good thing, he decided \u2013 when you was on the other <\/em>end of the joke. \u00a0\u00a0\u201cIf you don\u2019t…don\u2019t get out of here and…leave me be, Tory J…J…Jennings\u201d Joe snarled through chattering teeth, \u201cI\u2019ll \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll what?\u00a0 Tells our Pa\u2019s you went swimmin\u2019 naked as a jaybird in the river and invited us to watch?\u201d<\/p>\n

That was Nellie.<\/p>\n

\u201cI..never did!\u201d<\/p>\n

Nellie smirked.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAnd who do you think Pa is going to believe \u2013 you<\/em> or me?\u201d<\/p>\n

He really<\/em> didn\u2019t\u2019 like Nellie.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Little Joe,\u201d Tory said playfully, leaning out over the water\u2019s edge and dangling his sodden plaid shirt over it.\u00a0 \u201cIf you come on out, you can have your shirt.\u201d<\/p>\n

Little Joe looked at the shirt and then glanced up, wishing she was holding the other end of his wardrobe.\u00a0 Unfortunately, his brown britches were hangin\u2019 from a tree branch a good twelve feet above his head.\u00a0\u00a0 One leg was flapping in the breeze like it was wavin\u2019 goodbye.<\/p>\n

It was hard to sigh when you were a block of ice, but he managed it somehow.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m tellin\u2019 you for the…l…last…last...time<\/em>…\u201d Joe sneezed.\u00a0 \u201cI ain\u2019t comin\u2019 out of this h…here water until…all…of you go away!\u201d<\/p>\n

Or until my pants fall onto my head, he added silently to himself.<\/p>\n

Tory rolled his shirt into a ball and threw it \u2013 over his head and into the water.\u00a0 As it floated away, the blond-haired blue-eyed flirt planted her fists on her shapely hips and stuck out her lower lip.\u00a0 Like every other boy in school who had ever tried to court Tory Jennings, he knew what that meant.<\/p>\n

She wasn\u2019t laughin\u2019 anymore.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know why I bother with you, Little <\/em>Joe Cartwright!\u00a0 Here I thought you were a man and would take what you wanted, but you\u2019re not.\u00a0 You\u2019re just a boy!\u201d<\/em>\u00a0 Tory tossed her long sausage curls back over her shoulders as she rolled her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cButch MacTavish wouldn\u2019t be afraid to come right up out of that water and show a woman what he\u2019s got!\u201d<\/p>\n

He was tempted to do it.\u00a0 Tory lived in a house that was as female as his was male, except for her pa.\u00a0 He was pretty sure she had no<\/em> idea what a man \u2018got\u2019 and she was makin\u2019 him mad enough that he was just about ready to stand up and walk out of the water naked as a jaybird and show her.<\/p>\n

And he would have, if his brothers hadn\u2019t chosen that moment to show up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He and Hoss had considered turning around and heading for home and leaving Little Joe to his fate. \u00a0There was no missing their fifteen-year-old brother\u2019s brown twill trousers dangling from the branch above his head, or his plaid shirt floating away on the current.\u00a0 The little scamp deserved to walk home buck naked.\u00a0 In the end, though, self-preservation made them reconsider.<\/p>\n

If Joe caught cold their little brother\u2019s transgression would pale in the sight of their own, and it would be them<\/em> doing a week\u2019s worth of extra chores instead of him!<\/p>\n

Unseen, Adam dismounted and walked up behind the trio of taunting girls.\u00a0 He said nothing, waiting for them to sense his presence.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s eyes were wide, so he knew his little brother had seen him and Hoss, who was close by holding their horses\u2019 reins.<\/p>\n

And laughing.<\/p>\n

Adam wasn\u2019t laughing.\u00a0 He was scowling.\u00a0 Hoss hadn\u2019t heard the last thing Tory had said to Joe, which had been \u2013 well, to put it bluntly \u2013 below the belt.\u00a0 She and Joe had been an item two years before and had only just recently rekindled their \u2018romance\u2019 when Tory returned home from her aunt\u2019s in New York with an even higher opinion of herself than before.\u00a0\u00a0 Pa despaired of the pairing.\u00a0 Tory was a year older than Joe and seemed to have, well, matured<\/em> while away.\u00a0 From the look on Joe\u2019s face, he thought she was making it up about Butch.<\/p>\n

He<\/em> wasn\u2019t so sure.<\/p>\n

Adam crossed his arms and let out a little sigh \u2013 a really<\/em> little one.<\/p>\n

It hit the girls like cannon fire.<\/p>\n

Tory spun around.\u00a0 She wasn\u2019t a tall girl, so her eyes found his chest and then worked their way up to his face, paling when she saw his well-rehearsed frown.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just what do you have to say for yourself, young lady?\u201d Adam demanded, sounding as pa-like as he could.<\/p>\n

It was Nellie Dorsey who answered.<\/p>\n

He really<\/em> didn\u2019t like Nellie.<\/p>\n

\u201cTory doesn\u2019t need to say anything!\u201d she declared, wagging a skinny little finger at him.\u00a0 \u201cShe and Little Joe were spooning when he took off all his clothes and invited her to come into the water with him!\u00a0 It\u2019s your brother who\u2019s the invert!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Adam ran a hand over his face.\u00a0\u00a0 The gesture ended with his fingers on his lips.\u00a0 It took that to hold them closed, though whether he wanted to laugh or cry he wasn\u2019t entirely sure.<\/p>\n

\u201cNellie,\u201d he said quietly.<\/p>\n

It took a second.\u00a0 Her tone was defiant.\u00a0 \u201cYes?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI happen to know your pa, and if he were to find out that you left the settlement without his permission and were out here in the woods with two other girls, near the river, watching a naked boy swim…\u00a0 Well, I imagine sitting down would no longer be an option.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a sound.\u00a0 It was either the horses snorting or Hoss.<\/p>\n

He was betting on the latter.<\/p>\n

Tory shoved past the sputtering girl and came right up to him.\u00a0 Considering she didn\u2019t make it much past his belt, he found the sight less than intimidating.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you tell Nellie\u2019s pa any such thing, I\u2019ll tell the sheriff Little Joe tried to force himself on me!\u201d<\/p>\n

Nellie wasn\u2019t looking so bad now.<\/p>\n

Adam leaned down so his eyes were on a level with Torie\u2019s.\u00a0 The girl\u2019s were big and bright and a blue as Lake Tahoe.<\/p>\n

Too bad her soul wasn\u2019t as clean.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know what the penalty for perjury is, Miss Jennings?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cPer… what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLying to the law.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tory\u2019s bottom lip jutted out.\u00a0 \u201cWho says I\u2019m lying?\u201d<\/p>\n

His gaze went from her to Nellie.\u00a0 \u201cI say you\u2019re lying and who do you think Sheriff Olin\u00a0 is going to believe?\u201d\u00a0 He paused a moment to let that sink in before going on.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ll go to jail where they will cut your hair off above your ears and make you wear prison gray.\u00a0 You\u2019ll have gruel for breakfast, dinner and<\/em> supper, and sleep in a cell crawling with bugs.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd rats, Adam.\u00a0 Don\u2019t forget them rats,\u201d Hoss chimed in.<\/p>\n

All three girls had gone very pale.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, here is what you are<\/em> going to do.\u00a0 You three,\u201d he included Nabby this time, who was standing to the side horror-stricken, \u201cwill go home this instant and say nothing <\/em>to your parents about this.\u00a0 Am I understood?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if I do?\u201d Nellie countered testily, though most of her bravado was gone.<\/p>\n

Adam made a clucking sound with his tongue.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m betting that I\u2019m a better liar than you are.\u00a0 If you do, I\u2019ll go to your parents and tell them you<\/em> three brought Little Joe out here into the woods and stole his clothes just so you could see a boy naked.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would they believe you?\u201d Tory countered \u2013 a little too quickly.<\/p>\n

Adam held her gaze.\u00a0 \u201cOh, I think you know.\u201d\u00a0 He took a step forward and lowered his voice so Little Joe \u2013 who was treading water and staring wide-eyed at him \u2013 couldn\u2019t hear.\u00a0 \u201cAnd if I ever<\/em> hear that you have tried to seduce my kid brother, you may be certain I will tell your father what you\u2019ve done.\u201d\u00a0 He paused for emphasis.\u00a0 \u201cPrison<\/em> would be a kinder fate.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tory had pale skin.\u00a0 It went completely white.<\/p>\n

And the girls were gone.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u00a0 You gonna help…a f…feller out of here…or not?\u201d a shaky voice called as soon as they disappeared.\u00a0 \u201cI can\u2019t exactly…reach m…m…my britches!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam tipped the hat back on his head and stared at the trousers dangling from the tree branch above.<\/p>\n

Ah, yes.\u00a0 What to do with Joe?<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think we oughta help him out, Adam?\u201d Hoss asked, just loud enough that he knew it was a leading question.<\/p>\n

He dropped his head and looked at Joe.\u00a0 Baby brother\u2019s lips were blue, so they couldn\u2019t string him along too long without chancing him getting sick.<\/p>\n

Not too<\/em> long.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 Supper\u2019s waiting and you know how Pa is when we\u2019re late.\u00a0 No reason for all three of us to get the switch.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a moment of silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re…k…k…kidding.\u00a0 Right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam hid his grin.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s voice hadn\u2019t quite settled down yet.\u00a0 Sometimes it sounded like a squeaky wheel that needed greased.<\/p>\n

Like now.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re right, Adam,\u201d Hoss said, playing along.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m powerful hungry and Hop Sing\u2019s gonna throw out that roast pig he was plannin\u2019 on servin\u2019 if we ain\u2019t sittin\u2019 in our chairs when he brings it to the table.\u201d\u00a0 He mounted Chubb and turned his horse\u2019s head toward home.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe\u2019s always tellin\u2019 us he\u2019s old enough to take care of hisself.\u00a0 I figure rightly he\u2019s big enough to make his own way home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right!\u00a0 G…g…go ahead!\u201d Joe shouted.\u00a0 \u201cYou just go…ahead.\u00a0 I\u2019ll just…w…walk buck naked back to the house and…and you c…can see how Pa likes it…when I show up and…t…tell him you made me do it!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam walked over to the edge of the water and knelt in the grass so he was on a level with his little brother.\u00a0 \u201cLet me get this straight.\u00a0 You left school early to play hooky and go swimming and just happened to run afoul of that little jezebel, and somehow this is our<\/em> fault? \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u00a0 You…watch it!\u00a0 Tory\u2019s m…my…girl….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c…who just happened to take your clothes and….\u201d\u00a0 Adam paused.\u00a0 He looked up, perplexed.\u00a0 \u201cBy the way, Joe, just how<\/em> did she manage to get your britches so high up into the tree?\u201d\u00a0 Silence greeted him.\u00a0 He looked down at his brother, whose lips now resembled lapis lazuli.\u00a0 \u201cJoe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGosh…darn it, Adam…Tory didn\u2019t!\u201d\u00a0 Joe shuddered.\u00a0 \u201cI kind of…of took them…off when I jumped…off the branch into…the river.\u00a0 I…I knew they\u2019d g…get heavy if\u2019n they w…was wet.\u00a0 So I jumped in w…wearing only my drawers and shirt…but then they…got heavy too….\u201d<\/p>\n

Where Angels fear to tread, the eldest Cartwright sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow are you…g…gonna g…get them for…for me or not?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s in it for us?\u201d Hoss asked with a grin.\u00a0 Of course, middle brother knew full well he <\/em>was not going to be the one to have to shinny up that tree and out onto that skinny branch.<\/p>\n

Joe frowned.\u00a0 \u201cMy…eternal g…gratitude?\u201d<\/p>\n

The big man shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t enough.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss pulled at his whiskerless chin.\u00a0 \u201cHow about a week\u2019s worth of chores \u2013 for both of us?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d r…r…rather drown!\u201d Joe sputtered and then nearly did as he lost his footing and his head went under water.<\/p>\n

Before he could resurface, they exchanged a look.\u00a0 \u201cPa\u2019s gonna kill us if he gets sick,\u201d Hoss muttered.<\/p>\n

As their brother\u2019s tousled head reappeared, Adam nodded and then said, \u201cThat\u2019s a mighty risky climb, Joe.\u00a0 Seems to me like you need to give me something to make it worth my while.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s teeth were really chattering now.\u00a0 \u201cOkay…you…w…win.\u00a0 I\u2019ll do whatever you want.\u00a0 It\u2019s…damn<\/em> cold…in here.\u00a0 Will…you just get…my damn<\/em>…britches!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam tsked<\/em> as he began to move toward the lower portion of the tree.\u00a0 \u201cSuch language, Joe.\u00a0 Pa\u2019s going to be pretty upset when he learns you used that kind of words.\u201d<\/p>\n

He needed to learn how to bottle whatever he had done.\u00a0 Joe was silent again.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not…gonna…tell…Pa?\u00a0 Are…you?\u00a0 \u2018Bout the w…words or…th…this?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was nearly halfway up the tree.\u00a0 The branch was a little higher up than he\u2019d hoped.\u00a0 Blast that kid for being such a monkey!<\/p>\n

\u201c \u2018Course we\u2019re gonna, Joe,\u201d Hoss said as he ambled over to the river bank.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t he got a right to know?\u201d<\/p>\n

He had reached Joe\u2019s pants.\u00a0 They were dry and it was important he keep them that way.\u00a0 The night was advancing and the temperature dropping and as much fun as they were having ribbing Little Joe, the kid had inherited his mother\u2019s fragile constitution and got sick at the drop of a hat \u2013<\/p>\n

Adam smirked.\u00a0 Or of his britches.<\/p>\n

Balling the pants up, he yelled, \u201cHeads up, Hoss!\u201d, and then tossed them.\u00a0 It seemed like a good idea at the time.\u00a0 But then he hadn\u2019t taken into consideration the condition of the branch and his own weight and the strain said weight would put on said branch when he applied force to the throw.<\/p>\n

Adam yelped.<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t even have time to shout \u2018Look out below!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright was pacing.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t like to pace.\u00a0 It wore the rug down and stripped the finish off the floor and was completely at odds with his desire to preserve some sense of…decorum on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Nevertheless, pace he did and he did it often.\u00a0 <\/em>Usually it was his youngest son\u2019s antics that kept him on the move.\u00a0 Often his pacing was accompanied by his own sighs and exasperated looks passing between his two older boys.\u00a0 They kept their thoughts to themselves, but he heard them anyway.<\/p>\n

\u2018You know how he is about Joe,<\/em>\u2019 Adam would say. \u00a0\u2018Poor kid ain\u2019t never gonna break free of that lead line,\u2019 <\/em>Hoss would add.<\/p>\n

He had to admit it.\u00a0 He was<\/em> overprotective with Joseph.\u00a0 But then the boy had been through so much already \u2013 losing his mother when he was five, suffering multiple injuries throughout his childhood, being kidnapped by Wade Bosh the year before and nearly lost at sea.\u00a0 And then there had been that unending fever when he was thirteen, occasioned by his treatment at the hands of Finch Webb.\u00a0 At times it seemed God had something against his youngest son.\u00a0 Ben halted in his pacing and closed his eyes.\u00a0 He had to remind himself that was not the way the Almighty worked.\u00a0 A wise man had told him once that he doubted God could use a man greatly until he had wounded Him deeply.<\/p>\n

God must have something extraordinary<\/em> planned for Marie\u2019s son.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoys not home yet?\u201d a familiar voice asked from the area of the dining room.<\/p>\n

Ben turned to look.\u00a0 Hop Sing was removing the plates from the table.\u00a0 They had waited as long as they could for his sons to return before eating supper, and then kept the food on the table for another hour.\u00a0 The rancher glanced at the clock.\u00a0 It had just struck nine.<\/p>\n

Five hours ago when he had sent Hoss and Adam out to look for their brother he had been furious.\u00a0 Joseph had skipped school again<\/em>.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t know what he was going to do with that boy.\u00a0 In spite of Little Joe\u2019s cajoling and pleading, he steadfastly refused to give in to his youngest\u2019s request to leave his books behind and work on the ranch full time.\u00a0 It was too soon.\u00a0 Little Joe was still a child.<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s a child because you want to keep him a child.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

There it was again. \u00a0Adam\u2019s voice in his head.<\/p>\n

Ben sighed and reached for the bridge of his nose, but stopped.\u00a0 Paul Martin had warned him if he squeezed it one too many times the bone would break and he\u2019d lose his sense of smell.<\/p>\n

Just like he\u2019d lost his sanity.<\/p>\n

\u201cMistah Ben want more coffee?\u201d<\/p>\n

He\u2019d left his cup half-full on the table.\u00a0 Hop Sing was hovering above it, looking at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, thank you,\u201d he replied.\u00a0 \u201cYou can take it away as \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

A sound outside the door attracted the rancher\u2019s attention.\u00a0 A blessed<\/em> sound.<\/p>\n

Three sets of horse\u2019s hooves striking the hard packed earth of the yard.<\/p>\n

As Ben took a step toward the door it opened and Hoss barreled through, nearly knocking him down.\u00a0 Without a word, the twenty-one-year old headed for the hearth, opened the wood box and lifted firewood from it, and then tossed it onto the fire.\u00a0 A second later he reached for the matches.\u00a0 Ben blinked his surprise.\u00a0 He had to admit the breeze coming through the open door was cool, but the early May night hardly warranted a fire.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, what are you doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

His question was answered a moment later as his youngest and oldest sons straggled in looking like jetsam that had washed up on the shore.\u00a0 Both were soaked to the skin and shivering, but especially Little Joe whose lips were a rather alarming shade of blue.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing!\u00a0 Heat some water!\u201d the rancher yelled as he headed for the chest that held their winter\u00a0 coverlets.\u00a0 As Hoss brought the fire to life, Ben grabbed two and headed over to his sons.\u00a0 He handed one to Adam who briefly met his eyes and then ducked his head.\u00a0 Dismissing that for the moment Ben went to Joseph, who had taken a seat on the settee and was shivering, and draped the heaviest of the throws around his youngest son\u2019s shoulders.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing!\u201d<\/p>\n

With the quicksilver movements of a cat, the man from China had already made his way to his side.\u00a0 In his hands was a tray with a steaming pot of coffee and several cups.\u00a0 \u201cSuch foolishment!\u201d their cook announced as he placed the tray on the table before the settee.\u00a0 \u201cIt nighttime.\u00a0 Water already<\/em> on to boil for baths.\u201d\u00a0 Hop Sing straightened up.\u00a0 He pointed a finger first Little Joe and then Adam.\u00a0 \u201cYou drink!\u00a0 Warm inside as well as outside!\u00a0 You no get sick!\u00a0 Hop Sing to busy to look after you!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2018T…thanks, Hop S…Sing,\u201d Joe stuttered as he reached out with a shaking hand toward the pot.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me do that, son,\u201d Ben said, afraid the boy would spill it and scald himself.\u00a0 He poured a cup of the steaming liquid and handed it to Joe, and then looked at each of his boys in turn.\u00a0 \u201cWould any of you care to explain what happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joseph suddenly found something of great interest in the black liquid that filled his cup.\u00a0 Hoss, on the other hand, met his sharp gaze.\u00a0 \u201cSure thing, Pa…after<\/em> I get back from fetchin\u2019 more firewood.\u00a0 I wouldn\u2019t want my brothers to take a chill.\u201d\u00a0 It amazed him sometimes how quickly his giant of a son could move when he wanted to.\u00a0 Before Ben could form a reply, Hoss was gone.<\/p>\n

Which left Adam, who still<\/em> wouldn\u2019t look at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s lips pursed.\u00a0 He looked up through the shag of wet black hair that dangled before his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s all my fault, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo…no, it…ain\u2019t\u201d Joe declared as he placed the cup and the table and then drew the coverlet closer about his shaking form.\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t you let…brother Adam…fool you.\u00a0 It\u2019s…my <\/em>fault…Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

As he looked from one to the other, Hoss reappeared, arms laden with wood.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I suppose you are going to tell me it\u2019s your<\/em> fault as well,\u201d he said, addressing his middle son.<\/p>\n

Hoss dropped the firewood in the box and then turned toward him.\u00a0 \u201cSure enough is, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, someone<\/em> had to be first!\u201d he snapped, his temper rising.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I h…hadn\u2019t of player hooky n…none of this would have happened,\u201d Joe said, pausing only to sneeze.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m s…sorry, Pa.\u00a0 When you\u2019re s…sittin\u2019 in a stuffy old c…classroom b…bored out of your m…mind, that s…sunshine just calls to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBored?!\u201d he roared.<\/p>\n

Joe winced.\u00a0 His son knew what he thought.\u00a0 He\u2019d told him often enough in fifteen years.\u00a0 There was<\/em> no excuse for being bored.<\/p>\n

\u201cHonest, P…Pa.\u00a0 All the k…kids my age are working their r…ranches.\u00a0 It\u2019s just l…little ones.\u00a0 M…Miss Jones ain\u2019t got m…much time for me.\u201d\u00a0 His son sniffed.\u00a0 \u201cAll the other b…boys my age are s…stayin\u2019 home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben noted his youngest withered further beneath his gaze.\u00a0 Ben deliberately lessened the scowl.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that true?\u00a0 Do either of you boys know?\u201d he asked the other two.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d\u00a0 Hoss protested.\u00a0 \u201cJoe ain\u2019t no liar.\u201d<\/p>\n

Liar?\u00a0 No.\u00a0 But he was<\/em> a master of prevarication.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was sniffing too.\u00a0 He ran his fingers under his nose and the winced when he saw him watching.\u00a0 Hop Sing quickly made his way over to his eldest with a napkin.<\/p>\n

\u201cPretty much, Pa,\u201d Adam replied, nodding a \u2018thanks\u2019 to their cook.\u00a0 \u201cIt may just be the season, you know, with all the late spring work to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s gaze took in all three boys.\u00a0 He could tell his older sons were sympathetic to the boy\u2019s cause, but telling Joseph that he could miss the last three weeks of school would be tantamount to giving approval of him playing hooky.<\/p>\n

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

He turned toward Joe.\u00a0 The boy looked decidedly unwell.\u00a0 \u201cYes, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I go up to bed?\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher frowned.\u00a0 \u201cWithout any supper?\u201d<\/p>\n

His youngest favored him with that cocky smile he had \u2013 the one that lit his emerald green eyes and lifted one corner of his full lips.<\/p>\n

\u201cI kind of figured I was gonna get sent to bed without any anyhow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben closed his eyes and sighed as his fingers went for his nose bridge \u2013 again.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, please go to the kitchen and bring in a cold supper,\u201d he said as he opened them.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, you and Joseph go up and change and then come back down to eat. \u00a0I want you out of those wet things before one or the other of you catches your death.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s smile broadened.\u00a0 \u201cWell, you can count on me for one, Pa, to let that old death get away from me.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t got no intention of catchin\u2019 it.\u201d<\/p>\n

The beleaguered father suppressed a sigh.\u00a0 \u201cI \u2018haven\u2019t\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe paused at the bottom of the stairs and looked back, his emerald-green eyes clear and innocent beneath that mop of brown curls.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou haven\u2019t what, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Before he could speak, Adam caught his little brother by the arm and propelled him up the staircase.\u00a0 \u201cBack in ten, Pa,\u201d his oldest remarked as they turned the corner.<\/p>\n

Ben stood watching them for a moment and then pivoted to find Hoss watching him.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t you glad I\u2019m such an angel, Pa,\u201d the big man remarked, his lips twisting in a grin. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019m bettin\u2019 I\u2019m the only reason you got some color left in that hair of yours.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced in the mirror before heading to the table.<\/p>\n

What<\/em> color?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

TWO<\/p>\n

It was late afternoon by the time Ben Cartwright got to the settlement.\u00a0 He opened the door to the mercantile and strode into the shop, letting it slam behind him to activate the bell.\u00a0 The rancher watched as Ima Bland \u2013 as appropriately named an individual as he had ever met \u2013 moved into the room.\u00a0 The little man \u2013 Ima\u2019s head could rest under his chin \u2013 could be as irksome as he was dull-witted which, he supposed, was good for a man who needed to heed orders and not think too much for himself. Ima wasn\u2019t the store owner or even it\u2019s manager, he was the apothecary tasked with filling out the prescriptions written by Doctor Paul Martin and his widely scattered associates.\u00a0 One doctor to two hundred miles of territory was not uncommon.\u00a0 Out here, it might even be three.\u00a0 Ben glanced at the prescription he held in his hand.\u00a0 Amazingly, it was not for Joseph, who had rallied quickly from the dunking he had taken. \u00a0It was for Adam, who simply could not shake whatever was ailing him.<\/p>\n

\u201cBack again, Ben?\u201d Ima snorted.\u00a0 \u201cThat youngest of yours broken something new?\u201d<\/p>\n

He really had to stop sighing.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not for Joseph this time.\u00a0 Adam is still unwell,\u201d he growled as he handed the piece of paper over.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, take me out for a ride and see how far I can go!\u201d Ima quipped as he settled his glasses on his nose, obviously thinking himself quite the wit.<\/p>\n

\u201cI beg your pardon?\u201d Ben asked.\u00a0 He was really not in the mood for levity of any kind<\/em>.\u00a0 The consequence of Adam\u2019s lingering illness had been him having to honor Joe\u2019s request to quit school early.\u00a0 He needed the boy to take his brother\u2019s place.\u00a0 So, here he was, with the ranch in the middle of calving season \u2013 with branding not very far in the future \u2013 and he was having to depend on a boy to do a man\u2019s job.<\/p>\n

No, that wasn\u2019t fair.<\/p>\n

He was actually quite proud of Joseph.\u00a0 Hoss had complimented his little brother the night before, saying how Joe had been more than pulling his weight.\u00a0 In fact, the boy seemed determined to prove just how cheerful and helpful he could be.\u00a0 While Adam\u2019s fuse had shortened, Joseph\u2019s had grown in length until it seemed nothing could set it off.\u00a0 He was going to have to seriously consider whether or not to send the boy back to school at all.\u00a0 Ben smiled with chagrin.\u00a0 Perhaps Adam was right.\u00a0 Perhaps his refusal had more to do with the fear of letting his last fledgling take wing than anything else.<\/p>\n

Perhaps it was<\/em> time he let Joseph become a man.<\/p>\n

\u201cMister Cartwright?\u00a0 Are you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben blinked.\u00a0 He looked at Ima, who was looking at him like he\u2019d just suffered an apoplectic stroke.<\/p>\n

The rancher passed a hand over his eyes.\u00a0 He\u2019d been up with Adam most of the night before.\u00a0 His eldest had a fever that simply would not go away.\u00a0 Paul had begun to fear there was some underlying infection that was the cause of it.\u00a0 Perhaps something he had swallowed while he was in the water.\u00a0 The prescription the doctor had written was for a compound remedy intended to keep his fever down.\u00a0 Other than that, his friend had told him to watch that the boy ate and got plenty of rest and liquids, dehydration being their chief worry.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Ima.\u00a0 I\u2019m fine.\u00a0 Just tired.\u201d<\/p>\n

The apothecary\u2019s eyes narrowed with a father\u2019s knowledge.\u00a0 \u201cBeen spending a lot of nights up, have you?\u201d \u00a0As he nodded, the man added, \u201cBest be careful, or you\u2019ll be sick too.\u201d<\/p>\n

His second nod was a vague one.\u00a0 \u201cWell, do you have what you need to fill it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The little man lowered his wire-rimmed glasses even further to the end of his nose and reread Doc Martin\u2019s scrawl \u2013 a talent he himself lacked.<\/p>\n

\u201cMost everything.\u00a0 There\u2019s one thing here missing,\u201d he said, pointing to the third or fourth line.\u00a0 \u201cShould be comin\u2019 in on the stage.\u00a0 You got something to do in the Station that will take an hour or so?\u201d<\/p>\n

He\u2019d come in by himself. \u00a0Hoss was busy on the range with Little Joe and he\u2019d left Adam curled up in the blue chair by the fire with his nose in a book.\u00a0 For a moment the rancher contemplated heading to what the settlement had that passed for a saloon, but he really wasn\u2019t in the mood.<\/p>\n

\u201cBeth Riley\u2019s got a fresh supply of pies,\u201d Ima said with a grin.\u00a0 \u201cSome of them are made with this month\u2019s rhubarb and last summer\u2019s strawberries.\u00a0 She had a fresh pot of coffee brewing too when I was there about a half hour ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

So that <\/em>was what the small pink stain on the apothecary\u2019s white shirt was!<\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds like an excellent suggestion,\u201d Ben agreed.\u00a0 \u201cAn hour, you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf the stage is on time.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded his acceptance of that.\u00a0 The stage normally ran like clockwork, but there was always the possibility of an unexpected delay.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t I just bring it to you when I have it in hand, Ben?\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher grinned.\u00a0 \u201cNow, would payment for that delivery just happen to be a piece of strawberry-rhubarb pie?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMight just be.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben tipped his hat.\u00a0 \u201cSee you shortly, then. \u00a0Thank you, Ima.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo trouble, Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

As the little man turned back to his business, Ben Cartwright exited the mercantile and headed for Beth Riley\u2019s place.\u00a0 The pie sounded good but, truth to tell, sitting for a spell and talking to the good-looking widow was just as attractive to him.\u00a0 Though his boys were everything to him and all he needed, Ben found \u2013 since he had come to know Rosey O\u2019Rourke \u2013 that he missed a feminine presence in his life.\u00a0 While he had no romantic interest in Beth, she was a smart and funny woman and he vastly enjoyed her company.<\/p>\n

Besides, if he took home some of that freshly baked strawberry-rhubarb pie, he could make those sons of his do just about anything he wanted them to.<\/p>\n

With a smile on his face, Ben reached for the latch and entered Beth\u2019s shop.\u00a0 The delicious aroma that met him had his mouth watering in seconds.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, Ben Cartwright!\u00a0 What\u2019s brought you to town?\u201d<\/p>\n

He pursed his lips and raised one dark brow.\u00a0 \u201cCome now, Beth, it was you<\/em>, don\u2019t you know?\u201d\u00a0 He chuckled at her surprised look and added, \u201cActually, I floated in on the scent of that delicious pie.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh!\u00a0 Pshaw!\u201d the pretty blonde woman with a trim figure laughed.\u00a0 She glanced behind him and then asked, \u201cYou alone today?\u00a0 None of those handsome boys with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben nodded as he took a seat at one of her tables.\u00a0 \u201cOnce they know about that pie my sons will consider me criminal for not bringing them along.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI heard Little Joe and Adam were sick,\u201d she said as she caught the pot of coffee off the stove and proceeded to right and then fill the china cup on the table.\u00a0 \u201cNothing serious, I hope.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph has recovered for the most part, though that child seldom seems one hundred percent.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss had mentioned the fact that Joe tired easily and was pushing himself mercilessly. He meant to talk to the boy first chance he had.\u00a0 \u201cAdam is still under the weather,\u201d he finished with a frown.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d she asked as she placed a piece of pie before him.\u00a0 \u201cNothing serious, I hope.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAn underlying infection that he can\u2019t seem to shake.\u00a0 I came into town to fill a prescription Paul wrote out during his last visit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou surprise me, Ben,\u201d Beth said as she slipped into a chair next to him and the aroma of her clean, vanilla-scented skin reached out, reminding him of Marie.<\/p>\n

He had a forkful halfway to his mouth.\u00a0 \u201cOh?\u00a0 Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd here I thought you\u2019d \u2018floated\u2019 in for a piece of my pie.\u201d<\/p>\n

They both laughed.<\/p>\n

For the next fifteen minutes or so they talked and then Beth got busy.\u00a0 A half an hour later he was looking at the clock and wondering what was taking Ima so long.<\/p>\n

\u201cBen.\u201d<\/p>\n

He glanced up at Beth \u2013 and then around.\u00a0 The shop was quiet again.\u00a0 \u201cYes?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHave you visited with Ming-hua lately?\u201d<\/p>\n

He hadn\u2019t seen the young Chinese woman in quite some time.\u00a0 \u201cNo.\u00a0 Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth drew in a breath, held it, and then let it out slowly.\u00a0 \u201cCall it women\u2019s intuition.\u00a0 Something is wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded.\u00a0 \u201cShe was in here a little earlier all a-twitter like a frightened little bird.\u00a0 She came to get something for her lunch.\u00a0 I glanced at her a few times as I packed it and caught her looking over her shoulder at the door.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps she was expecting someone.\u201d<\/p>\n

As Beth filled his cup again, she scowled.\u00a0 \u201cIf she was, it was someone she did not<\/em> want to find her.\u201d<\/p>\n

He took a sip and then asked, \u201cIntuition again?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMm-hm.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at the clock again.\u00a0 He still had ten minutes before his hour was up.\u00a0 Rising from his chair, he laid his napkin on the table.\u00a0 \u201cWhy don\u2019t I go pay her a visit?\u00a0 Tell Ima when he comes looking for me with the medicine that that\u2019s where I am, will you?\u00a0 Oh, and give him a piece of that pie and put the cost on my tab.\u201d<\/p>\n

Visible relief flooded through the vibrant blonde.\u00a0 \u201cCertainly!\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth and Ming-hua had become very close since Rosey O\u2019Rourke\u2019s departure to live in another town near her son Rory, who was serving a two year sentence in the territorial prison. \u00a0In his letters to Rosey, he had told her how the shop owner had stepped in to fill the gap her exit had occasioned.\u00a0 While it had eased Rosey\u2019s mind, she was still concerned for the once China girl.\u00a0 Rosey was planning to visit soon. \u00a0Ming-hua was looking forward to it.<\/p>\n

So was he.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou seem thoughtful today, Ben,\u201d the older woman said.<\/p>\n

He supposed he was.\u00a0 \u201cToo little sleep,\u201d he replied and then added with a grin, \u201cToo many boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, maybe I can send something with you to bribe them into behaving so you can get at least one night\u2019s rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s strawberry rhubarb pie, I might just get two<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll pack up three.\u00a0 Two for Hoss and one for the rest of you,\u201d she laughed.<\/p>\n

He reached out and gave her arm a little squeeze.\u00a0 \u201cThanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth\u2019s cheeks blushed crimson as a school girl\u2019s.\u00a0 \u201cPshaw!\u00a0 It\u2019s nothing.\u201d\u00a0 Lifting her arms, she made a shooing motion.\u00a0 \u201cNow go!\u00a0 Get on your way!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, ma\u2019am,\u201d he answered with a grin as he headed for the door.<\/p>\n

It was only a hundred paces or so to the millinery.\u00a0 Ben crossed the distance quickly and had raised his hand to take hold of the latch when he noticed a sign tacked on the door saying the shop was closed.\u00a0 With a frown, he peered inside.\u00a0 He could see Ming-hua in the back room, or at least he thought he could.\u00a0 There was an arm showing beyond the door frame sheathed in silk.\u00a0 The elegant fabric shimmered in the glow of a nearby lamp.<\/p>\n

He hesitated only a moment and then lifted his hand and knocked.<\/p>\n

Whomever the arm belonged to started and withdrew.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t Ming-hua, for as it dis<\/em>appeared she appeared in the open door and stepped into the shop.\u00a0 He noted how downcast the lovely young woman looked as she hurried to the front.<\/p>\n

As the door opened, she said, \u201cSo sorry.\u00a0 Shop not open.\u00a0 Please come back another \u2013\u201d\u00a0 When she looked up and saw that it was him, Ming-hua drew in a sharp little breath.\u00a0 \u201cMister Ben, please to forgive this one.\u00a0 I mean no disrespect to my honorable friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right,\u201d he said, his eyes on that back room.\u00a0 \u201cMay I come in?\u201d<\/p>\n

She hesitated.\u00a0 \u201cIt would be best if honorable friend come back another day.\u201d<\/p>\n

He kept his hand on the door.\u00a0 \u201cMing-hua.\u00a0 Whatever it is, I\u2019d like to help.\u201d<\/p>\n

It took her a moment to meet his gaze.\u00a0 \u201cMing-hua cannot ask honorable rancher to help,\u201d she said, her voice barely above a whisper.\u00a0 \u201cToo much danger for him and for his sons.\u201d<\/p>\n

Danger?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you<\/em> in danger?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Involuntarily, her eyes went toward the room at the back.\u00a0 \u201cMing-hua not seek danger.\u00a0 It find her. And though she does not welcome it, she cannot turn from it.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher considered whether or not he should step away.\u00a0 He first met Ming-hua in an establishment called The Delectable Dragon.\u00a0 <\/em>During the time Wade Bosh had held his son Joseph captive, the seaman had made a stop there to…pleasure himself.\u00a0 Joseph \u2013 ill, maybe dying \u2013 had been locked in one of the cribs used by the pitiful women employed there that lay at the back of the decadent establishment.\u00a0 Ming-hua had risked her life to take care of him and then came to tell him where his son was.<\/p>\n

He owed her Joseph\u2019s life.<\/p>\n

Reaching out, Ben took her small hand in his.\u00a0 \u201cYou saved my son.\u00a0 I owe you a debt of honor.\u00a0 I would like to pay it.\u201d<\/p>\n

The girl paled.\u00a0 She shook her head.\u00a0 \u201cMuch trouble. \u00a0Much<\/em> danger.\u00a0 Ming-hua cannot ask \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are not asking,\u201d he replied, his tone solemn. \u201cI am offering.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ming-hua shuddered and then, slowly, tears began to fall. \u00a0He stepped into the shop and closed the door behind him and took her by the shoulders, steadying her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, will you tell me what this is about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not my sister\u2019s place to tell you, Ben Cartwright,\u201d a lilting voice proclaimed.\u00a0 \u201cIt is mine, for mine is the shame.\u201d<\/p>\n

He pivoted at the sound and sucked in air at the sight.\u00a0 A beautiful tall, slender Chinese woman dressed in silk had stepped out of the back room.<\/p>\n

She was obviously pregnant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSay there, Joseph, who do you think that is?\u201d<\/p>\n

Little Joe pivoted on his heel, scowling at middle brother\u2019s use of his \u2018you\u2019re-in-trouble-young-man\u2019 name.\u00a0 He tilted his black hat back on his curly head and leaned on the sledge hammer he held before answering.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Eric.<\/em> Your guess is as good as mine.\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother snorted.\u00a0 \u201cShame older brother don\u2019t have no longer version of his <\/em>name too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe chuckled as he turned his attention to the two men approaching them.\u00a0 They sat high in the saddle \u2013 one of them near as high as brother \u2018Eric\u2019 did.\u00a0 One was wearing traditional Chinese togs like their cook, while the other was dressed like a westerner in a pearl-gray suit with a black string tie and hat.<\/p>\n

That was the big one.<\/p>\n

Hoss came alongside him; his crisp blue eyes narrowed. \u00a0\u201cI don\u2019t like the look of them, Little Joe.\u00a0 You let me do the talkin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe started to protest but then, something stopped him.\u00a0 The men had drawn close and he\u2019d gotten a good look at the one dressed as a city slicker.\u00a0 There was something about him, something familiar, though he couldn\u2019t quite place it.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like two of Hop Sing\u2019s hundred and fifty cousins,\u201d Joe snorted in an attempt to hide how unnerved he was.\u00a0 \u201cProbably looking for him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cProbably,\u201d Hoss said as he dropped the hammer and nails he\u2019d been holding and headed for the pair.\u00a0 They\u2019d been mending fences all day.\u00a0 It was near dusk and they\u2019d just decided to call it quits.\u00a0 Joe was\u00a0 ready for a bath and one of their cook\u2019s amazing meals.<\/p>\n

He hoped whatever these two wanted didn\u2019t delay them.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnythin\u2019 I can do for you fellers?\u201d he heard his brother ask.<\/p>\n

Joe eyeballed the pair.\u00a0 Somehow, he was pretty sure that anything they <\/em>wanted wouldn\u2019t be anything he or his brother would care to do.<\/p>\n

The man dressed like Hop Sing was the older of the two.\u00a0 He had a long face and dark, narrow eyes.\u00a0 His mouth wasn\u2019t anything more than a slit drawn into a straight line and the mustache above it ran parallel, like water to a riverbank. If he had to, Joe would have guessed the stranger was a little younger than Pa, but not by much.\u00a0 The other man…the one who seemed familiar…was near Hoss\u2019 size but skinny as his brother was stout.\u00a0 The stranger\u2019s straight black hair was cut in the fashion of a white man, though it ran a little long and brushed his shoulders.\u00a0 Pa would have said he looked like a riverboat gambler.\u00a0 The Chinese man was handsome, he supposed, or at least he thought a woman would have called him that.\u00a0 He had a strong face with fairly wide open black eyes.\u00a0 They were troubled eyes \u2013 or meant trouble \u2013 one of the other.<\/p>\n

At the moment they were lookin\u2019 straight at him<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe seek the settlement called Eagle Station,\u201d the older man said, his voice soft and a little cold.\u00a0 \u201cThis humble one would ask if the path we take is the correct one?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019re on Ponderosa land right now, mister.\u00a0 Keep goin\u2019 a mile or so that way,\u201d his brother pointed, \u201cand you\u2019ll find the road.\u00a0 Keep to the road and you\u2019ll find the settlement.\u00a0 Ain\u2019t nothin\u2019 else \u2018round about here.\u00a0 Just keep movin\u2019 in that direction and you\u2019ll find it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes<\/em>\u2019, Joe thought, \u2018please keep moving.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThis one is grateful for the information and humbly asks a name so he may know who to thank for it,\u201d the younger man said, his words polite; his tone anything but.<\/p>\n

Joe saw Hoss hesitate.\u00a0 Then, since there was no reason not to, he told him.\u00a0 \u201cHoss Cartwright.\u00a0 That\u2019s my little brother Joe over there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle…Joe,\u201d the man in the suit repeated.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s right, Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s heart was thudding in his chest.\u00a0 His mouth had gone dry and his hands were sweating and he had no<\/em> idea why.\u00a0 In his short span of fifteen years he\u2019d met dozens of Chinese men.\u00a0 Each and every one of them had brought a smile to his face.<\/p>\n

This man didn\u2019t bring a smile.\u00a0 He brought…what?\u00a0 Fear?\u00a0 Panic?<\/p>\n

Terror?<\/p>\n

The older of the two inclined his head.\u00a0 \u201cMy sister\u2019s son and I thank you and wish that lucky air may come to your house from the East.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMay your future be as bright as embroidered cloth,\u201d his companion added as he made a kissing noise and started his horse forward.<\/p>\n

Joe watched them go and then, in spite of fighting as hard as he could not to, plopped down on a nearby stone and blew out a breath.<\/p>\n

Hoss was at his side in an instant.\u00a0 He felt the weight of his brother\u2019s hand on his shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cYou okay, punkin\u2019?\u201d<\/p>\n

Punkin\u2019.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sometimes he hated that.\u00a0 Not now.\u00a0 Not when he felt anything but<\/em> grown up.<\/p>\n

He could have lied, of course, but it was Hoss<\/em> and he chose not to.\u00a0 \u201cI know that guy, Hoss.\u00a0 The younger one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t joshin\u2019 me?\u201d\u00a0 When he shook his head, the big man asked, \u201cWho is he?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cI have no idea, but I know that I know<\/em> him.\u00a0 I just can\u2019t remember where from….\u201d<\/p>\n

Middle brother gazed after the pair.\u00a0 Joe watched as concern turned to a frown on his beefy face.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m not one to be judgin\u2019 a man without knowin\u2019 him first, but I got me a feelin\u2019 them two is trouble \u2013 especially<\/em> that younger one.\u201d<\/p>\n

He felt it too. \u00a0There was something in the air.\u00a0 Some ill wind was blowing in.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think we should tell Pa?\u201d Joe asked, his voice quivering.<\/p>\n

Hoss considered it, then he nodded.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s just what I\u2019m thinkin\u2019.\u00a0 You gather up the tools, Little Joe.\u00a0 I think it\u2019s time you and me was headin\u2019 home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Relief flooded through him.\u00a0 For all he fought to be thought of as a man by his family, Joe Cartwright knew he was far <\/em>from it.\u00a0 He wanted nothing more at this moment than to run back to the Ponderosa and bask in the safety and security he found in his father\u2019s presence.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, fate had deemed that that was not to be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright pulled up short in his pacing and looked at the front door of the ranch house.\u00a0 He was twenty-seven years old and seldom if ever identified with his father\u2019s, well, over-protective nature.\u00a0 He identified with it now.<\/p>\n

The older man was several hours overdue.<\/p>\n

Pa had gone into town to fill a prescription for him and said he would be six hours at most \u2013 two into town, one to get the medicine, two back, and one just \u2018in case\u2019.\u00a0 Adam glanced at the clock.<\/p>\n

It had been nine.<\/p>\n

Now, his father could take care of himself.\u00a0 He knew that.\u00a0 But then, wasn\u2019t that what he always told the older man about them<\/em> \u2013 about him and Hoss and sometimes Joe?\u00a0 And how often had that <\/em>been a complete and total fabrication?<\/p>\n

The black-haired man shuddered.\u00a0 Maybe he should saddle Sport and head toward Eagle Station.\u00a0 He glanced out the window.\u00a0 In the dark?<\/em>, common sense demanded.<\/p>\n

He should wait until morning, but waiting meant, well….<\/p>\n

More pacing.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d certainly have to replace the great room floor before the normal fifty years were past \u2013 at least the portion in front of the fireplace.<\/p>\n

Adam glanced at the closed door again and then plunked his tired body down into the big blue chair by the hearth, which was his favorite.\u00a0 It was a funny thing, favorites.\u00a0 The other chairs in the room \u2013 even the settee \u2013 were just as good for sitting, but when he was feeling ornery, he\u2019d fight for this one in particular.\u00a0 It just seemed to fit him better somehow, to make him feel more comfortable \u2013 more at home.<\/p>\n

The eldest son of Ben Cartwright scowled.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t feel much like home right now with everyone but Hop Sing missing.\u00a0 It felt more like….a picnic thrown on the top of a hill of red ants.<\/p>\n

Springing to his feet again, Adam began once again to prowl like a caged lion, following the path his father normally walked; worried, concerned \u2013 out of his mind, really.<\/p>\n

It must be the fever.\u00a0 The damn fever that wouldn\u2019t <\/em>go away.<\/p>\n

Damn.\u00a0 Fever.<\/p>\n

Damn.<\/p>\n

Adam grinned.\u00a0 Somehow cussing in his father\u2019s elegant great room felt better than cussing in the barn.\u00a0 He often called Joe \u2018rebellious\u2019.<\/p>\n

Was he rebellious too?<\/p>\n

Damn<\/em> right.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing\u2019s concerned voice broke into his wayward thinking like a bucket of cold water tossed in his face.\u00a0 \u201cNo sign of Mistah Ben yet, Mistah Adam?\u00a0 Or Mistahs Joe and Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss he wasn\u2019t too <\/em>concerned about.\u00a0 That north pasture fence had been bad.\u00a0 They might even have decided to make camp and stay the night so they could finish it in the morning.\u00a0 But Pa?\u00a0 Well, Pa was…<\/p>\n

Pa.<\/p>\n

He shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cNot yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t know what he thought.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t thinking, he was feeling<\/em>, which \u2013 for him \u2013 was something new.\u00a0 Pa called it \u2018intuition\u2019.\u00a0 Most often he called it \u2018voodoo\u2019.<\/p>\n

Most often.\u00a0 Not now.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow does Pa stand it?\u201d he muttered, mostly to himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt foolishment to refuse to eat because of fear of choking,\u201d the household sage replied.<\/p>\n

In other words, don\u2019t borrow trouble.<\/p>\n

Adam started back to the blue chair, but it was at that moment that he heard a sound in the yard.\u00a0 It was probably a buggy or wagon because there were multiple horses\u2019 hooves striking the packed earth along with the sound of wheels turning.\u00a0 With a glance at Hop Sing he headed for the door, taking a moment to stop and pick up his pistol before opening it.\u00a0 He never got a chance.\u00a0 A second later the door was thrust in and his father strode into the house.<\/p>\n

The older man\u2019s near-black eyes did a quick sweep of the interior.\u00a0 \u201cAre you two alone?\u201d he asked as his concerned gaze rolled over Hop Sing and back to him.<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure are, Pa,\u201d he replied, curious as to why it mattered.<\/p>\n

His father stared at him for a moment and then, as if coming to a decision, turned back to the door and said, \u201cCome in, Ming-hua.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ming-hua was outside?\u00a0 His father had left the Chinese girl there to debark from the wagon and come inside on her own?<\/p>\n

Something was definitely <\/em>wrong.<\/p>\n

Adam had his answer when Ming-hua came in through the door, quickly followed by two other, taller Chinese women, both wearing cloaks. The pair stopped just inside the door while Ming-hua followed his father over to the area of the hearth and took a seat on the settee at his urging.<\/p>\n

The older man turned to the women.\u00a0 \u201cLadies, please.\u00a0 Come and sit down.\u00a0 You are to consider this your home for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

The taller of the two took a step forward.\u00a0 She was, in a word, stunning.\u00a0 Her almond-shaped eyes were large and expressive and lined on both the top and bottom with kohl to make them appear more Western.\u00a0 They were, of course, black as her waist-length hair. She had a slender nose and wide, full lips that were painted a deep shade of scarlet to match her heavily embroidered silk dress.\u00a0 Her most distinguishing feature, though, was a small mole in the middle of her right cheek.<\/p>\n

That and the sadness that permeated every inch of her being.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not the desire of Dandan or Biyu to bring a mountain of knives to the house of Cartwright,\u201d she replied, her voice like fingers on silk.\u00a0 \u201cTherefore they must most humbly refuse your kind offer.\u201d<\/p>\n

So this was one of Ming-hua\u2019s sisters who had, somewhat reluctantly from what he understood, played a part in caring for his missing brother the year before.\u00a0 While they had not aided his father in his quest to find Wade Bosh and free Joe, neither had they done anything to alert Bosh to the fact that their father was in Vallejo searching for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense,\u201d his father said.\u00a0 \u201cYour sister can\u2019t continue to travel in the condition she is in.\u00a0 You need a home base until we can figure out what to do.\u201d\u00a0 His father paused, and then added in that tone that brooked no argument.\u00a0 \u201cYou will <\/em>consider this your home.\u201d<\/p>\n

From what he remembered of Pa and Little Joe\u2019s tale of that horrible time, the older of the pair was Dandan.\u00a0 Pa had said Ming-hua\u2019s eldest sister was a little taller and that she seemed less hardened by the life she had led.\u00a0 So it was Biyu who was the pregnant one.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis unworthy one cannot accept such a gift,\u201d the expectant mother declared, her chin thrust out in defiance.<\/p>\n

His father went over to her.\u00a0 He took hold of the edge of her cloak and pulled it aside, revealing her advanced condition.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis<\/em> worthy one must,\u201d he said, indicating her belly.\u00a0 \u201cI ask that you do this for your unborn child.\u201d<\/p>\n

Biyu\u2019s jaw grew tight as she fought back tears.\u00a0 \u201cMy most honorable host does not engage in fair fighting.\u201d<\/p>\n

His father smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve had plenty of practice.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ming-hua rose.\u00a0 She crossed the room to stand by his father.\u00a0 \u201cMy much loved sister came to Eagle Station to ask Ming-hua for help.\u00a0 Such help is now offered. \u00a0Why refuse?\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan answered.\u00a0 \u201cOur sister swims in a sea of fire,\u201d she said, her tone utterly weary.\u00a0 \u201cA fire that will burn Ben Cartwright\u2019s family as surely as our own.\u201d\u00a0 She turned toward Biyu then and said, \u201cYou must tell them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Biyu nodded as the tears flowed at last, softening that diamond-hard edge.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis unworthy one runs from dishonorable husband toward….\u201d\u00a0 The beautiful woman placed a hand on her midriff and drew a breath before continuing.\u00a0 \u201cBiyu runs from dishonorable husband toward the honorable man she loves.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cToward the father of her child,\u201d Dandan explained.<\/p>\n

Adam exchanged a look with his father.<\/p>\n

Well<\/em>, then….<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

THREE<\/p>\n

Joe woke slowly and rolled over.\u00a0 Rising, he worked out the kinks and then went to relieve himself.\u00a0 When he came back, he glanced at Hoss \u2013 who was sawing logs to beat any band \u2013 and then crossed over to the remnants of their campfire and began to rekindle it.\u00a0 The dawn had broken.\u00a0 In fact, the sun was cresting above the trees.\u00a0 It surprised him that he had awakened before his brother.\u00a0 Usually it took Hoss and Adam combined \u2013 with maybe Hop Sing thrown in \u2013 to wake him and get him moving.\u00a0 Of course, that was when he\u2019d slept soundly.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d done anything but<\/em> that last night.<\/p>\n

After gathering their tools they\u2019d headed for home but quickly realized that \u2013 with the time they\u2019d lost talking to the two strangers \u2013 they\u2019d never make it before nightfall.\u00a0 So instead, they made camp and bedded down.\u00a0 It was kind of fun.\u00a0 He and Hoss didn\u2019t get a chance to camp out much like they had when they were kids, and the two of them had sat there sippin\u2019 coffee and tradin\u2019 ghost stories until half the night was gone.\u00a0 After finishin\u2019 one final particularly chilling tale about a man haunted by ghosts in his sleep, his giant of a brother had announced he was done in.\u00a0 Hoss muttered \u2018goodnight\u2019, slipped under his blanket, and was snorin\u2019 in less than a minute.\u00a0 Unable to do the same, Joe sat for some time, thinkin\u2019 about everything under the sun \u2013 including that chilling tale.\u00a0 Then at last, unable to keep his eyes open, he too laid out his bedroll and crawled under the single cover he\u2019d brought and fell asleep.<\/p>\n

That was when the real<\/em> nightmare began.<\/p>\n

In his dream he\u2019d been back home in the stable searchin\u2019 for a fork to pitch some hay.\u00a0 He\u2019d just rounded the last of the stalls when something hit him so hard on the head he blacked out for a minute or two.\u00a0 When he came to he heard Adam callin\u2019 him.\u00a0 He tried to answer but before he could, a man\u2019s hand clamped over his nose and mouth, cuttin\u2019 off his air so he blacked out again.\u00a0 When he woke up the second time he was in a dark, foul-smelling place, laying on a cot and burning up with fever.\u00a0 Someone leaned over him and called his name, just like Adam had.\u00a0 He tried to answer whoever it was, but the hand returned, taking hold of his throat and squeezin\u2019 hard this time.\u00a0 As he fought to breathe, he looked up into a pair of hard unfeeling eyes.\u00a0 Black eyes that belonged to a man.\u00a0 A big Chinese man.<\/p>\n

The stranger in the city slicker\u2019s suit.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d been there, that Chinese man, at The Delectable Dragon<\/em> in Vallejo, California.\u00a0 He remembered him now, standing in the corner watching \u2013 always<\/em> watching.\u00a0 Of course it hadn\u2019t been that man who had kidnapped him, but he\u2019d sure enough stood by when he knew full well somethin\u2019 was funny with Wade Bosh.\u00a0 Maybe that was why seeing him had scared him so.\u00a0 He\u2019d tried his damnedest to forget everything Bosh had done to him and well, seein\u2019 that stranger had brought it all back.<\/p>\n

Joe shook himself and rose to his feet.\u00a0 He glanced at his sleeping brother again. In his nightmare, as that hand had covered his mouth cutting off his air, he had screamed and screamed and screamed.\u00a0 Funny that in the real world he hadn\u2019t made a sound.<\/p>\n

Maybe all that screaming had been in his soul.<\/p>\n

Catching his and his brother\u2019s canteens off the ground, Joe headed for the river that ran swiftly along the north side of their camp in order to refill them.\u00a0 He supposed he should have awakened Hoss and told him where he was going, but somehow \u2013 on Ponderosa land \u2013 he always felt safe.\u00a0 It was as if, no matter how far he went, so long as he was within the boundaries of his Pa\u2019s empire, the older man was watching over him.\u00a0 Joe snorted as he removed the cap of one of the canteens.\u00a0 \u201cYeah, you\u2019re really grown up, Cartwright.\u201d\u00a0 He had to admit, his pa was the bedrock of his world.\u00a0 Everything else was just topsoil.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t know what he\u2019d do without his pa.<\/p>\n

Probably curl up and die, that\u2019s what.<\/p>\n

Joe filled both his and Hoss\u2019 canteens and then left them lying on the bank as he walked over to a flat rock that jutted out over the river.\u00a0 With care, he climbed onto it and shinnied out until he sat on its edge.\u00a0 Lifting one leg, he circled it with his arms and sat there watching the sun claim the sky.\u00a0 He knew there were other places in the world; lands that had their own kind of beauty that was different from the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Brother Adam longed to see them and sometimes, well, sometimes he thought maybe he wanted to see them too.\u00a0 There were times when he thought about leavin\u2019 his father\u2019s land and makin\u2019 his own way in the world, but each time he did, he\u2019d come up against somethin\u2019 like this sunrise and \u2013 for the life of him \u2013 he couldn\u2019t imagine how he\u2019d ever go.\u00a0 As streaks of a vivid pink-orange light punctured the space between the pine trees, chasing away what was left of the night\u2019s shadows, Joe yawned.\u00a0 He sure was tired.\u00a0 Hoss was probably awake by now, he told himself.\u00a0 After he tended the fire and rustled up some grub, middle brother would realize he was missing and come lookin\u2019 for him.\u00a0 There couldn\u2019t be any harm in layin\u2019 back and closin\u2019 his eyes and restin\u2019 a spell.<\/p>\n

Now, could there?<\/p>\n

As Joe closed his eyes, he had a vision.\u00a0 He remembered a day, just like this one, back some two years before.\u00a0 He and Tory Jennings had met early in the morning when they should have been at school, and had sat hand in hand on a flat stone like this one, watching the sunrise.\u00a0 When he asked if her pa would get angry if he found out, Tory told him there wasn\u2019t anything worry about.\u00a0 Even if Mister Jennings did, he wouldn\u2019t care.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve got him wrapped around my little finger\u2019, she said.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d been thirteen at the time and the taste of her lips had been just about the sweetest thing he\u2019d ever known. \u00a0It was just before she left Eagle Station and went East.\u00a0 They\u2019d promised each other that day that they\u2019d pick up where they\u2019d left off when she got back.\u00a0 He\u2019d been happy to see her when she did and near busted with pride when she accepted his invitation to the spring dance.\u00a0 When she suggested they leave the dance and go to the barn, well, like any feller he\u2019d been mighty excited.\u00a0 But this time Tory didn\u2019t just want a kiss.\u00a0 She\u2019d wanted somethin\u2019 from him he just wasn\u2019t ready to give.\u00a0 Not long before that dance his pa\u2019d sat him down and told him about men and women.\u00a0 He told him how he should respect them, but how he should also respect himself enough to wait until he found a woman he loved.\u00a0 He liked Tory.\u00a0 She was pretty and smart and \u2013 as Adam would say \u2013 \u2018high-spirited\u2019 like him.\u00a0 But he didn\u2019t think he loved her.\u00a0 When he thought of love, he thought of his mama and his pa, and though he couldn\u2019t remember much, there was somethin\u2019 they\u2019d had that was missing with Tory.\u00a0 Pa said love was about sacrifice \u2013 giving and not getting.<\/p>\n

That was for sure something Tory Jennings didn\u2019t know nothing<\/em> about.<\/p>\n

Joe was still layin\u2019 there an hour later, thinking about his mama and how much he missed her, when he heard a noise.\u00a0 It could have been an animal creeping up on him \u2013 maybe a wolf or coyote \u2013 but he didn\u2019t think so.\u00a0 More likely it was Hoss.\u00a0 His brother would think it was mighty funny to come up on him unawares and scare the livin\u2019 daylights out of him.\u00a0 Deciding it was<\/em> Hoss, Joe clamped his eyes shut and pretended to sleep.\u00a0 He listened as the footsteps came closer and closer and readied himself to spring up and give his brother one heck of a surprise.<\/p>\n

Problem was, when Joe did spring up, it was him<\/em> that got the shock of his life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss reined in Chubb and looked ahead; then glanced back in the direction of their campsite.\u00a0 He sure wished he could of talked to Little Joe before he took off.\u00a0 Trouble was, he\u2019d heard somethin\u2019 that had made it impossible for him to stay put \u2018til Joe came back from wherever he\u2019d gone.<\/p>\n

A lady cryin\u2019.<\/p>\n

The sound had come from the direction he\u2019d sent them two Chinese fellers the night before.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t think it had to do with them since they didn\u2019t have no woman with them, but then again, it might.\u00a0 She could have been there and stayed hidden while they talked.\u00a0 Chinese ladies were awful shy for the most part.\u00a0 Either way he didn\u2019t like the look of them two.\u00a0 Hop Sing would of said the older one had \u2018secrets behind his eyes\u2019, and the younger one?\u00a0 Whew, doggie!\u00a0 He had the look of one of them pugilists that came to Eagle Station and put on exhibitions from time to time.<\/p>\n

Pa\u2019d said a man like that oughta be made to declare his fists as weapons.<\/p>\n

As he leaned on his saddle horn, Hoss listened.\u00a0 It was early morning and just about every creature in the trees was chatterin\u2019.\u00a0 The birds were the noisiest of all.\u00a0 The way they was squawkin\u2019 at one another, he knew somethin\u2019 was up.\u00a0 Might of been the lady.\u00a0 More likely, they was warnin\u2019 one another a storm was brewin\u2019.\u00a0 The sky had grown dark in the last half-hour and the wind was pickin\u2019 up.\u00a0 He kicked himself for takin\u2019 up what might prove to be a wild goose chase.\u00a0 He should of ignored it and gone lookin\u2019 for his little brother instead.\u00a0 If he had, they\u2019d be headed home now.<\/p>\n

Leaning down, he patted the side of his horse\u2019s neck.\u00a0 \u201cYou hear anythin\u2019 other than them birds, Chubby?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ol\u2019 Chubb snorted and stamped.\u00a0 Since he knew horse talk, he could interpret that.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you\u2019re right.\u00a0 Must of been hearin\u2019 things.\u201d\u00a0 As he lifted the reins, the big man said, \u201cLet\u2019s you and me get back to camp.\u00a0 I sure hope little brother\u2019s there and he\u2019s got breakfast cookin\u2019.\u00a0 I could just about eat me a \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a second for the sound to die away.\u00a0 Whoever that lady was, she weren\u2019t cryin\u2019 this time.<\/p>\n

She was screamin\u2019.<\/p>\n

Dismounting, Hoss ground-tied his mount and began to run.\u00a0 The scream had come from somewhere near the river. As he tore through the underbrush, he wondered what a woman would be doin\u2019 out here on Ponderosa land \u2013 supposin\u2019 she weren\u2019t with those two Chinese men.\u00a0 He had his answer a moment later when a slender female form bolted out of the trees and straight into him.\u00a0 She glanced up at him, sobbed, and then buried her head in his shirt before he could get a good look at her.<\/p>\n

As Hoss put an arm around her tremblin\u2019 shoulders, he gave her a quick once over. \u00a0The girl \u2013 she weren\u2019t nowhere near bein\u2019 a woman \u2013 was wearin\u2019 mighty fine clothes, though they was ripped and soiled like she\u2019d taken a spill.\u00a0 He held her for a moment and then gently shifted back.\u00a0 The move didn\u2019t dislodge her desperate grip, but it gave him enough room to see what was goin\u2019 on.<\/p>\n

It was Little Joe\u2019s one-time filly.\u00a0 Tory Jennings.<\/p>\n

\u201cTory!\u00a0 What\u2019re you doin\u2019 out here all on your lonesome?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

The girl was tremblin\u2019 so hard and breathin\u2019 so rapid it was all she could do to get out the words.\u00a0 \u201cHe…brought me…out here.\u00a0 He said we\u2019d…spoon.\u00a0 Then he….tried to…to….\u201d\u00a0 Tory gasped and buried her head in the folds of his shirt again.\u00a0 \u201cOh, Hoss, how could I be so stupid!\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss considered what he was seein\u2019.\u00a0 The worst damage to Tory\u2019s clothes was around the neckline.\u00a0 The bodice of her frilly dress was all tored up on one side and hangin\u2019 down so\u2019s her underpinnin\u2019s were showin\u2019.\u00a0 The big man\u2019s clear blue eyes went to Tory\u2019s skirts.<\/p>\n

They was all tored up too.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho, Tory?\u00a0 Who are you talkin\u2019 about?\u201d he demanded, though he had a fair idea of who it was.\u00a0 He\u2019d bet good money the little gal had tried her tricks one too many times and the feller she was with had called her bluff.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWas it Butch?\u201d<\/p>\n

He felt her nod. \u00a0\u201cHe…\u00a0 Oh, Hoss, he….\u201d\u00a0 She sniffed and then looked right up at him.\u00a0 \u201cI told him he was no gentleman like Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss had to smile at that \u2013 Joe, bein\u2019 a gentleman.\u00a0 He\u2019d have to remember to tell Pa what she said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I asked Little Joe to…well…\u201d\u00a0 She sucked in air and let it out quickly.\u00a0 \u201cWhen we were…spoonin\u2019…he never tried to….\u201d\u00a0 Her cheeks blushed red as a berry.\u00a0 \u201cHe wouldn\u2019t<\/em> even when I wanted to….\u201d<\/p>\n

Little brother was just too dang cute.\u00a0 They all knew he was like honey to a bear when it came to all the little fillies at school goin\u2019 after him.<\/p>\n

Maybe it would<\/em> be right smart of Pa to keep the boy home.<\/p>\n

Now that he thought he could get a straight answer out of her, Hoss asked Tory, \u201cWhere\u2019s Butch?\u00a0 He didn\u2019t just go and leave you alone out here in the wild, did he?\u201d<\/p>\n

Tory blanched.\u00a0 \u201cButch said he was going to go find Little Joe and make him pay.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow wait a gol-darn<\/em> minute.\u00a0 Pay for what?\u201d he asked..<\/p>\n

Tory started trembling.\u00a0 Tears fell, carvin\u2019 paths through the dirt on her face.\u00a0 \u201cWell… I might have told Butch that Little Joe and I had….\u00a0 Well, that we….\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss didn\u2019t know which feelin\u2019 to act one \u2013 his outrage or the plain old terror.<\/p>\n

\u201cButch headed back to the Ponderosa?\u201d he asked hopefully.<\/p>\n

Tory shook her head.\u00a0 \u201cWe came out early.\u00a0 We were heading for the rock by the river when we saw you and Little Joe camping and went the other way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Every alarum bell in him was goin\u2019 off.\u00a0 \u201cTory.\u00a0 You don\u2019t mean to tell me that Butch knows<\/em> where Joe is?\u201d<\/p>\n

She winced and then nodded.<\/p>\n

Hoss caught her hand in his and started movin\u2019.\u00a0 \u201cMy horse is back a ways.\u00a0 I want you to get on Chubb, Tory, and ride for the Ponderosa lickety-split.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t think Butch will hurt Little Joe, do you?\u201d she asked, breathless as she ran beside him.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked toward the river.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think so, Tory,\u201d he replied, swallowing over his fear.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u2019d<\/em> it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright wasn\u2019t usually one to try to talk his way out of a fight, but in the two years since Butch MacTavish had near killed him by butting into him and breaking his rib, the older boy had grown six inches to his two and put on near fifty pounds.\u00a0 Adam had a saying about \u2018discretion\u2019 bein\u2019 the better part of valor.\u00a0 It had taken him near a week to puzzle that one out, but in the end Joe understood it to mean that there were times a man should fight and other times he should just plain run.<\/p>\n

Now was probably one of those times.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m gonna kill you, Cartwright!\u201d Butch roared.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d leapt up and off of the rock and had placed its bulk between them.\u00a0 While he\u2019d been pretendin\u2019 to sleep, a gentle rain had begun to fall and they were both dancing on the muddy ground from side to side \u2013 him trying to keep out of Butch\u2019s reach and Butch trying to reach him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt least tell me what you\u2019re so all-fired sore about,\u201d Joe countered as he shoved a hank of rain-soaked curls out of his eyes.\u00a0 So far all Butch had said was that he was gonna kill him and tear his dead body from limb to limb and then feed it to the fishes for what he done.\u00a0 \u201cIf a man\u2019s gonna die, he\u2019s got a right to know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou<\/em> ain\u2019t got a right to live!\u201d the bully shot back.<\/p>\n

Joe glanced over his shoulder.\u00a0 He was pretty much trapped \u2013 unless he wanted to take a swim.\u00a0 The fast-running river lay behind him and the flat rock in front of him.\u00a0 Butch was blockin\u2019 the only open side. \u00a0Joe looked at his opponent, reassessing how many inches the other boy had grown.<\/p>\n

Lands sake, he was big!<\/p>\n

\u201cI<\/em> was gonna be the one,\u201d Butch snarled.\u00a0 \u201cBut no, rich, snot-nosed, spoiled, no-good Little<\/em> Joe Cartwright \u2013 who has everythin\u2019<\/em> handed to him on a platter \u2013 had to get there before me.\u201d\u00a0 Butch made a fist and shook it.\u00a0 \u201cI should of killed you two years back!\u201d<\/p>\n

Well, you came pretty close,<\/em> Joe thought.\u00a0 He\u2019d nearly died from the infection that came from that broken rib.<\/p>\n

A moment later he asked, \u201cThe \u2018one\u2019 \u2013 what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you go playin\u2019 innocent with me, Cartwright!\u201d Butch snarled as he snatched at him over the rock.\u00a0 \u201cTory told me everythin\u2019!\u201d<\/p>\n

He\u2019d almost got him.\u00a0 Dang, he had long arms too!<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s foot slipped as he evaded the other boy\u2019s reach.\u00a0 He overbalanced and nearly fell into the rushing river.<\/p>\n

\u201cEverything?<\/em>\u00a0 What\u2019d Tory tell you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Butch drew to an abrupt stop.\u00a0 He made a face.\u00a0 \u201cThat her and you…well, you know what.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s mobile eyebrows did a flip beneath his hairline.\u00a0 \u201cShe what?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

The bully scowled.\u00a0 \u201cI know you was out in the woods with her and that your brothers caught you buck-naked!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I<\/em> was, \u2018cause Tory stole my clothes!\u201d he shot back, his temper rising at the injustice of the whole thing.\u00a0 A bully who was sore with him \u2018cause he got the girl and wanted to mash him to a pulp was one thing.\u00a0 Bein\u2019 accused of, well, what Butch was accusin\u2019 him of was another thing entirely!<\/p>\n

That old discretion Adam talked about didn\u2019t count when a woman\u2019s reputation was on the line \u2013 even one like Tory.<\/p>\n

\u201cFor gosh sakes, Butch, she had Nellie and that other girl with her!\u00a0 You can ask Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLike your brother wouldn\u2019t lie for you,\u201d Butch sneered.\u00a0 \u201cYou Cartwrights, you stick together.\u00a0 Every one knows it.\u201d\u00a0 He made a disgusted face.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t one<\/em> of you worth the effort to spit on.\u201d<\/p>\n

Now that really <\/em>did it!\u00a0 First impugnin\u2019 \u2013 that was one of Adam\u2019s ten dollar words \u2013\u00a0 a woman\u2019s honor and now insulting his family!<\/p>\n

\u201cYou take that back!\u201d Joe yelled.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you come and make me, Cartwright!\u201d\u00a0 Butch raised his hands and wiggled his fingers.\u00a0 \u201cCome on, lover boy<\/em>.\u00a0 You take me on!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe hesitated, hearin\u2019 his Pa\u2019s voice in his ear.\u00a0 \u201cThere is no insult, Joseph, that is worth a broken bone.\u00a0 Fighting never solved anything.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

It might not solve it, but it would dang <\/em>sure make him feel better.<\/p>\n

Spitting on his hands, Little Joe Cartwright rubbed them together.<\/p>\n

Then he vaulted the rock and leapt into the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss cursed up one side and down the other as he made his way back to their campsite, usin\u2019 words that would have made his pa spit nails.\u00a0 Dang<\/em> that little Jennings girl!\u00a0 He and Adam had seen what she was doin\u2019, workin\u2019 her way right up to gettin\u2019 into Little Joseph\u2019s pants.\u00a0 Joe\u2019d let slip a couple of the tricks she\u2019d tried with him.\u00a0 He and Adam had both given thanks in church the next Sunday for God stoppin\u2019 them from workin\u2019.\u00a0 That little tart had done set her sights on his brother and she knew if she got Joseph to do what he weren\u2019t supposed to do, she\u2019d have him right<\/em> in her pocket.\u00a0 From where he was standin\u2019, seemed to him she\u2019d let Butch bring her out here just so she could wind him up and turn him down and then set him on Little Joe to make him pay for refusin\u2019 her.\u00a0 \u2018Course Tory hadn\u2019t taken into account the fact that Butch might just try to take advantage of her.<\/p>\n

Before<\/em> killin\u2019 Little Joe.<\/p>\n

As his feet hit the edge of the campsite, Hoss halted.\u00a0 He gulped in air and then shouted, \u201cJoe!\u00a0 Little Joe!\u201d\u00a0 As he waited, his mind raced.\u00a0 Where could the boy have gone?\u00a0 If it had been to relieve hisself, Joe would have been back fast as a deacon takin\u2019 up a collection.\u00a0 Hoss\u2019 keen blue eyes scanned the area, searching for a clue.\u00a0 Suddenly, he noted the missing canteens.<\/p>\n

The river!<\/p>\n

Taking off like a shot, he continued to yell.\u00a0 \u201cJoe!\u00a0 Little Joe!\u00a0 You answer me, boy!<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wanted to answer Hoss, really he did, but it was a little hard with Butch\u2019s fingers pressing into his windpipe.<\/p>\n

They were layin\u2019 on the riverbank.\u00a0 Butch had him by the neck and was banging his head on the ground.\u00a0 The bully was still shoutin\u2019, but the ringing in his ears was drowning out whatever he had to say.\u00a0 When his feet had hit that rock and he\u2019d barreled into Butch, he\u2019d had the upper hand.\u00a0 He\u2019d knocked him right off of his feet.\u00a0 He\u2019d learned a lot, wrasslin\u2019 with his bear-size middle brother, and for a while, he\u2019d thought he could win.\u00a0 The trouble was, Hoss didn\u2019t fight dirty.<\/p>\n

Butch did.<\/p>\n

It had been the blow to his head with a handy branch that had turned the tide. \u00a0With stars blockin\u2019 his view, he missed Butch\u2019s uppercut and only knew about it when bone met bone and his head snapped back.\u00a0 He lost all sense of where he was for a few seconds and when he came back to it, he found he wasn\u2019t where he\u2019d been.\u00a0 Somehow the two of them were on the far side of the rock.<\/p>\n

It was then he realized Butch had drug him to the bank of the river and meant to drown him.<\/p>\n

He was smarter than a knuckle-brained idiot should be, that Butch.\u00a0 If it looked like he\u2019d drowned, no one would suspect the bully had anythin\u2019 to do with it.\u00a0 All the bruises could be explained by his body bein\u2019 carried downstream.\u00a0 It was raining harder now.\u00a0 The river was rising higher.\u00a0 At the best of times it had a swift current.<\/p>\n

At the worst, it charged like a herd of startled mustangs runnin\u2019 wild.<\/p>\n

Joe blinked and struggled to speak as Butch applied more pressure to his throat, cuttin\u2019 off near all his air.\u00a0 Then, without warning, he let go.\u00a0 The release was as sudden as Joe\u2019s surprise.\u00a0 Both set his head to spinning.<\/p>\n

Then he heard it \u2013 Hoss shouting.<\/p>\n

His brother was close.<\/p>\n

Butch stared down at him, his eyes wide and wild.\u00a0 In them Joe saw his death.\u00a0 If Hoss caught him doin\u2019 what he was doin\u2019, Butch would go to jail.\u00a0 He\u2019d hurt other kids besides him before.\u00a0 The sheriff had warned his pa.<\/p>\n

Joe felt his limp body lifted up from the wet ground.\u00a0 Butch drew him in until their faces almost touched.\u00a0 The bully\u2019s swam in front of his eyes, fadin\u2019 in and out.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s you or me, Cartwright!\u201d he snarled.<\/p>\n

Then Butch threw him in the river.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Through the rain, Hoss caught a flash of something tan in color off to his left as he broke through the underbrush and reached the riverbank.\u00a0 He puzzled over it a moment and then turned toward the water.\u00a0 Moving forward, he halted to one side of a large boulder that leaned out over it and sucked in air, replenishing his near spent supply before callin\u2019 out.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe! Little Joe!\u00a0 Boy!\u00a0 You answer me!\u201d<\/p>\n

He waited.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d<\/p>\n

Nothing.<\/p>\n

Hoss glanced from side to side, but he saw no sign of Butch or his little brother.\u00a0 He knew they had<\/em> to be here.\u00a0 He\u2019d seen Joe\u2019s tracks leadin\u2019 this way, and the other, heavier boy\u2019s on top of them. He couldn\u2019t imagine why Little Joe wouldn\u2019t answer.<\/p>\n

Unless, for some reason, he couldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

Dropping to the ground, Hoss began to search for signs of what had transpired on the bank.\u00a0 He found them quick enough and they told the story \u2013 Joe\u2019s muddy boot prints on the rock, Butch\u2019s prints driven into the ground where Joe tackled him, a body hittin\u2019 the ground hard and then bein\u2019 dragged toward the water, and then Butch\u2019s prints runnin\u2019 off in the same direction where he\u2019d seen that tan blur.<\/p>\n

All by their lonesome.<\/p>\n

A pit opened in his stomach. \u00a0For a moment the big man stood still, frozen by fear into inaction.\u00a0 Then he began to run along the river bank as terror took hold of his innards and twisted them hard.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u00a0 Little Joe! For God\u2019s sake, Joe, answer me!\u201d<\/p>\n

As the big man came to the bend in the river where the water grew more rapid and tumbled down a series of falls, he halted.\u00a0 He could see ahead for a good quarter-mile and there was nothing.<\/p>\n

Absolutely nothing.<\/p>\n

Hoss had heard of a man\u2019s knees goin\u2019 to jelly.\u00a0 It were more than an expression to him now.\u00a0 The big man tumbled to the ground where he was and sat there with tears streamin\u2019 down his cheeks.<\/p>\n

How was he gonna tell his pa that he let his little brother drown?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright gazed out the window.\u00a0 The storm was at its height.\u00a0 Lightning crashed, illuminating the gun-metal gray sky and thunder rumbled.\u00a0 It made him think of Joseph who, as a little boy, had been frightened of both.\u00a0 He\u2019d awakened one stormy night to find Marie missing from their bed.\u00a0 Stepping into the hall, he\u2019d made a beeline for their small son\u2019s room, certain that was where she had gone.\u00a0 He found them sitting in front of the window.\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s curly head was resting on his mother\u2019s shoulder and she was speaking softly as her fingers played with his curls.<\/p>\n

\u2018…the king was very angry because his people were afraid, and so he banished the mother and the son from the earth and ordered them to live in the sky.\u00a0 Since then the son, Lightning, causes fire and destruction when he is angry, and his mother, Thunder, continues to scold him.\u00a0 That is why you can always see the bright lightning in the sky, petit Joseph, and hear the loud thunder right after that.\u2019\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

\u2018If you are the thunder, maman,\u201d <\/em>Little Joe had asked, his voice slurring with approaching sleep.\u00a0 \u201cDoes that mean papa is the lightning?\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

He could still hear Marie\u2019s bell-like laughter.\u00a0 <\/em>She\u2019d leaned down, kissed Joseph\u2019s head, and then \u2013 with a mischievous smile \u2013 replied, \u201cOui!\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

Ben sucked in air as the vision dissipated.<\/p>\n

God, how he missed her!<\/p>\n

\u201cYou okay, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

He turned to find Adam watching him.\u00a0 For a moment, until he found his voice, the rancher simply nodded.\u00a0 Then he said, \u201cI\u2019m fine, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes went to the ferocious night unfolding outside the window.\u00a0 \u201cHoss and Little Joe will be fine too, Pa.\u00a0 You taught them well.\u00a0 They\u2019ll find a place to hole up and keep dry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI know.\u00a0 Still, I hate to think of them out there in…this.\u00a0 It\u2019s been a while since we\u2019ve seen a storm this fierce, and it came up so fast.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s spring for you,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

He hadn\u2019t seen his eldest boy all day and now that he had, his concern ratcheted up a notch. Before Adam could stop him, he had his hand on his forehead.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re still carrying a fever.\u00a0 Did you take the medicine I brought home?\u201d<\/p>\n

He shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cMaybe it takes a few doses to kick in.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe,\u201d Ben replied, lifting his hand.\u00a0 \u201cI still think you should get as much rest as you can.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just got up four hours ago, Pa,\u201d his son protested.\u00a0 Then he added with a grin, \u201cWhat are you trying to do, turn me into Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man laughed.\u00a0 \u201cStill, I think you should go lie down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know what it says in Proverbs, Pa,\u201d Adam countered.\u00a0 \u2018The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied<\/em>.\u2019 I think I\u2019ll just be diligent and do a little paperwork so the Ponderosa remains supplied.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man placed a hand on his son\u2019s shoulder. \u201cJust don\u2019t tire yourself out,\u201d he said as he turned toward the kitchen.<\/p>\n

A knock on the door made them both jump.<\/p>\n

Ben exchanged a look with Adam.\u00a0 He saw the same question in his son\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

Who?<\/em><\/p>\n

He opened it to find Dan Tolliver standing on the stoop.\u00a0 He was carrying someone whom he had bundled in a horse blanket.<\/p>\n

\u201cFound her out by the barn, Ben,\u201d the wrangler said, his voice and eyes troubled.<\/p>\n

\u201cHer?\u201d Adam asked as he came up beside him.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome in, Dan.\u00a0 Take the young lady over to the fire.\u201d\u00a0 He could see whoever she was, her dress was torn.\u00a0 It was muddy and dripping water as well.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing!\u201d he bellowed.<\/p>\n

The man from China appeared almost instantly.\u00a0 \u201cWhat you yell about?\u00a0 Not have time get dinner on table for guests and self if you….\u201d\u00a0 Hop Sing\u2019s voice trailed off when he saw what was going on.\u00a0 \u201cWho little missy?\u201d he asked as the girl\u2019s blonde head appeared.<\/p>\n

Ben didn\u2019t know yet.\u00a0 Dan placed the girl on the sofa and backed away so he could move in.\u00a0 He took her slender hand in his as he shifted the sodden blanket away from her face.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood Lord, it\u2019s Tory!\u201d he breathed.<\/p>\n

Adam was at the settee in a heartbeat.\u00a0 \u201cTory Jennings?\u00a0 Joe\u2019s girl?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben shot him a look that indicated that was not<\/em> the way he wanted Tory identified.\u00a0 Taking both of the child\u2019s hands in his, he began to chafe them. \u00a0\u201cToss another log on the fire, Adam.\u00a0 She\u2019s cold as ice.\u00a0 And Hop Sing, please, fix some tea.\u00a0 We need to warm her up inside.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBen?\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher looked up.\u00a0 He had almost forgotten about Dan.\u00a0 He knew the wrangler well.\u00a0 They\u2019d been friends for years.\u00a0 He surrendered his place to Adam and went over to his old friend.\u00a0 \u201cDan, what it is?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou said that\u2019s the Jennings girl?\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYes, why?\u201d<\/p>\n

What he saw when he met the man\u2019s eyes made him stop.\u00a0 There was fear in them.<\/p>\n

And compassion.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hate to tell you this, Ben.\u00a0 But she came in on Chubb.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

FOUR<\/p>\n

The Englishman looked down at the catch he had just fished out of the river.\u00a0 He\u2019d been huddled up against a rock to stave off the rain, wearing a ruined suit and a wet blanket, when he\u2019d heard an odd sound.\u00a0 It was the Lord\u2019s own doing that he\u2019d heard it at all over the roar of the wind and the rumbles of thunder and cracks of lightning that split the night.\u00a0 Intrigued, he\u2019d shed his blanket and walked to the water\u2019s edge only to find a boy lying on the river bank.\u00a0 The poor soul\u2019s fingers were embedded in the mud.\u00a0 It looked like he\u2019d used the last ounce of his strength to haul himself up and out of the churning water.\u00a0 For an idle moment he\u2019d considered whether or not the Lord had heard his lonely prayer wishing for companionship, before he had taken hold of the boy\u2019s collar and pulled him up and out of danger.\u00a0 At first he feared he was too late.\u00a0 The boy\u2019s skin was fish-belly pale and he didn\u2019t seem to be breathing.\u00a0 Once he had him away from the river, he\u2019d taken hold of his arms and shaken him gently.\u00a0 When that elicited a pitiful moan, he\u2019d breathed a sigh of relief.\u00a0 It took little effort to haul the boy the rest of the distance to his camp and place him underneath the overhanging boulder he\u2019d taken shelter under earlier.<\/p>\n

He only wished he\u2019d had something dry to wrap around him.<\/p>\n

With the light all but swallowed by the storm it had been nearly impossible to tell, but he\u2019d thought the edges of the boy\u2019s lips were blue.\u00a0 Having nothing to use to warm him other than his own body, he had stripped the boy of his wet clothes and then drawn his naked form close to his own clothed one and wrapped them both in the driest blanket he could find.<\/p>\n

John chuckled softly to himself as he peered at the tousled head of curls.\u00a0 Somehow, this was not what he had expected when he breathed another sigh of relief this morning, knowing he had finally <\/em>set foot on Ben Cartwright\u2019s land.<\/p>\n

It had been a long and twisted journey that had begun in England, taken a sharp turn in Vallejo, and now moved on to Nevada for its next and, perhaps, final chapter.\u00a0 He looked at the curly-headed boy again and let out a sigh.\u00a0 He could only hope he hadn\u2019t rescued the child from the river only to place him in significantly more danger.<\/p>\n

He was, after all, a wanted man.<\/p>\n

\u201cUhhhh…..\u201d<\/p>\n

The Englishman frowned.\u00a0 He was afraid what the boy might think when he became aware enough to recognize his lack of clothing and his close proximity to a strange man.\u00a0 It was really imperative he do something to put him at ease.\u00a0 Slipping to the side, the Englishman pulled the blanket from his own shoulders and wrapped it around the boy, covering his nakedness before speaking.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon?\u00a0 Can you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy moaned again and opened his startlingly green eyes.\u00a0 A second later they rolled upwards.\u00a0 For a moment he feared his unexpected companion was going to pass out again, but then he blinked, swallowed, and fastened those eyes on him.<\/p>\n

\u201c…who…?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA friend,\u201d he replied, running a hand through his wet flaxen hair and driving it back from his pale blue eyes so the boy could see them better.\u00a0 \u201cMy name is John. \u00a0Can you tell me your name?\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy tried to shift his body.\u00a0 The effort proved too much.\u00a0 He drew in a shallow, surprised breath and then was beset by a fit of coughing worthy of a consumptive.<\/p>\n

John held him until he quieted.\u00a0 \u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter who you are, son. Try to sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

Those green eyes sought him again.\u00a0 They were filled, not only with pain but with confusion.<\/p>\n

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

He caught the boy\u2019s hand and squeezed it.\u00a0 \u201cNo.\u00a0 My name is John.\u00a0 Where is your father?\u00a0 Were you with him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c…Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Englishman frowned.\u00a0 Hoss?<\/em>\u00a0 What was that?\u00a0 A pet name for his father, or for himself perhaps?<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you Hoss?\u201d John asked.<\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s laugh was pitiful.\u00a0 He coughed again.\u00a0 \u201c…guess…you ain\u2019t…\u201d\u00a0 Another cough and this time something rattled in his chest.\u00a0 \u201c…seen middle…brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

John wondered how the boy had ended up in the water in the first place.\u00a0 Some misstep, perhaps, due to the lack of light and the wicked night?<\/p>\n

\u201cWere you with your brother before you went into the river?\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded.\u00a0 \u201c…camping.\u201d<\/p>\n

A bolt of lightning cut through the night.\u00a0 It struck close by them, illuminating the area they occupied as well as the boy who lay close beside him.\u00a0 He might have been fifteen or sixteen, though his angelic face and tousled curls made him look much younger. Thinking back to what his brother had told him \u2013 and considering where he was \u2013 John had a thought.\u00a0 Perhaps he knew <\/em>whose child this was.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs your name Cartwright?\u201d John asked.<\/p>\n

The boy looked startled and just a little bit afraid.\u00a0 After a second, he nodded.\u00a0 \u201cJoe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBenjamin<\/em> Cartwright is your father?\u201d<\/p>\n

Again, a nod.\u00a0 And another cough.\u00a0 \u201cYou…know him, mister?\u201d<\/p>\n

John smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI know of<\/em> him.\u00a0 We\u2019ve never met, but he\u2019s met my brother.\u00a0 You have too.\u201d<\/p>\n

The sandman was weighing down his eyelids and Joe was growing weary.\u00a0 As soon as the boy slept, he would gather him to himself again.\u00a0 Joseph Cartwright had suffered enough.\u00a0 It was almost beyond belief that God had allowed something like this to happen to him \u2013 again.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s your…brother…?\u201d Joe roused himself to ask.\u00a0 \u201cWhat\u2019s…his name?\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy was asleep before he could answer, but he said it anyhow.\u00a0 He missed his brother.\u00a0 God willing he would see him again.<\/p>\n

\u201cHis name is Jude, Little Joe.\u00a0 Jude Randolph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He and Dan found Hoss sitting on the bank of the river soaked to the skin and shivering.\u00a0 Ben had refused to allow Adam to go out into the tempest and so it was the two of them who had ventured out into the wild night in search of their missing loved one.\u00a0 At twenty-two Hoss was a man, but in some ways he was still a child \u2013 a tender-hearted child that couldn\u2019t bear to see anything hurt.\u00a0 The eyes that his middle boy turned on him when he placed a hand on his shoulder were red-rimmed and filled with pain and a loss of hope.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gone, Pa,\u201d he moaned. \u201cLittle Joe\u2019s gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGone?\u201d Dan asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was Butch.\u00a0 Butch MacTavish.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss drew a shuddering breath.\u00a0 \u201cGod damn<\/em> his ornery hide, Butch threw little brother in the river like he weren\u2019t no more than day old waste!\u201d<\/p>\n

He should have corrected his son for taking the Lord\u2019s name in vain.\u00a0 Perhaps he would \u2013 in time.\u00a0 Ben raised his eyes to the raging torrent the river had become. \u00a0Had<\/em> it carried away his youngest son along with the hopes and dreams he had for the boy?\u00a0 As he stared at it, feeling through his fingertips Joe\u2019s brother\u2019s body shake with anguish, Ben replayed the conversation he had had with Tory Jennings in his mind.<\/p>\n

It happened just after Dan had told him that the girl had come into the yard riding Chubb.<\/p>\n

……….<\/p>\n

Ben blinked.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI was comin\u2019 out of the stable when she rode in lookin\u2019 like she\u2019d forded the Truckee,\u201d Dan said.\u00a0 \u201cPoor child slid right off the saddle.\u00a0 Looked like she\u2019d been ridin\u2019 long and hard.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, on Chubb?\u00a0 Hoss\u2019 horse?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

The older man nodded.\u00a0 \u201cRecognized that animal right away.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Hoss?\u00a0 And Joseph?\u201d he asked.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0Dan shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cDidn\u2019t see hide nor hair of either of \u2018em.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cPa.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Ben pivoted on his heel to look at Adam.\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s coming around.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

His son\u2019s statement was confirmed as the girl began to sob.\u00a0 She caught Adam\u2019s burgundy shirt in her fingers and tugged.\u00a0 \u201cYou…you have to…help Little Joe!\u00a0 Please!\u00a0 He\u2019s going to kill him!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Adam \u00a0shifted out of the way as he dropped to his knees by the settee.\u00a0 Reaching out, Ben touched the child\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cTory.\u00a0 Tory, look at me.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

For a second it was as if she didn\u2019t see him, then the girl\u2019s blue eyes went wide.\u00a0 \u201cMister Cartwright!\u00a0 You\u2019ve got to go find Little Joe!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cTory.\u00a0 Shh.\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s with his brother Hoss.\u00a0 He\u2019s fine \u2013 \u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d she shrieked.\u00a0 \u201cNo, he\u2019s not!\u00a0 Hoss was…with me.\u00a0 He put me on his horse and told me to come to the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Butch….\u00a0 Butch, he….\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Words fled in the face of her tears.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

He glanced at Adam, who looked as sick as he felt.\u00a0 Something had happened and Hoss and Joe had apparently split up.\u00a0 Hoss had found Tory and sent her to them and then gone where?\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

Where was little Joe?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cTory,\u201d Ben said, keeping his voice even in spite of the fact that he wanted to panic. \u201cI need you to calm down and tell me exactly what happened.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

The girl\u2019s gaze went from him to Adam and then came back to him.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m so…sorry, Mister Cartwright,\u201d she sobbed.\u00a0 \u201cI never thought….\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cTake a deep breath and tell me.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted….\u00a0 I asked Little Joe to….\u201d\u00a0 She blushed and looked down.\u00a0 \u201cHe wouldn\u2019t.\u00a0 I was…mad.\u00a0 I told Butch….\u201d\u00a0 The blonde girl straightened up and looked him in the eye.\u00a0 \u201cI told Butch Little Joe made…love to me and Butch said he was going to kill him.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

……….<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s dead, Pa.\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s…dead.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss shuddered.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t no use hopin\u2019….\u201d<\/p>\n

He gave his boy\u2019s shoulder a gentle squeeze.\u00a0 \u201cThere\u2019s always hope, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 clear blue eyes sought his.\u00a0 \u201cThat river\u2019s runnin\u2019 mighty fast, Pa.\u00a0 A grown man\u2019d have a hard time keepin\u2019 his head above water.\u00a0 And Joe ain\u2019t a grown man, he\u2019s….\u00a0 He\u2019s so small<\/em>, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

The odds were against Joseph making it.\u00a0 He knew that.\u00a0 But he also knew a good God who in His plan might mean for the boy to live. \u00a0Yes, the river was wild, but there were overhanging branches and places where the current would carry anything floating on the surface close to the shore.\u00a0 His boys all knew how to swim \u2013 and well<\/em>.\u00a0 He\u2019d made sure of it, and they knew something more \u2013<\/p>\n

How to survive.<\/p>\n

Dan Tollivar cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cBen.\u201d<\/p>\n

He turned toward the other man.\u00a0 \u201cForgive me, Dan.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t mean to ignore you.\u201d<\/p>\n

His friend nodded.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t nothin\u2019 we can do for Joe tonight, but seems to me it would be a right smart thing to find shelter.\u201d\u00a0 The wrangler nodded toward Hoss; his eyes filled with unspoken concern.\u00a0 \u201cWe can build a fire and pass the night and then start lookin\u2019 soon as it\u2019s light.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dan was right.\u00a0 Hoss was soaked through and if he didn\u2019t dry off and warm up soon, there would be the possibility of pneumonia.\u00a0 He already had one sick boy \u2013 and another missing.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t need Hoss to become ill as well.<\/p>\n

Reaching down, he caught his giant of a son by the arm and tried to lift him up.\u00a0 \u201cCome on, Hoss. We need to get you out of the rain.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI cain\u2019t Pa!\u201d he protested, his voice cracking.\u00a0 \u201cI cain\u2019t<\/em> leave Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

The love between his middle and youngest sons ran deep, deeper maybe than he or Adam could understand.\u00a0 Hoss was Joseph\u2019s protector and at the moment he believed he had failed in his duty.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to get dried off and rest, son.\u00a0 If you get sick, how is that going to help your brother?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was silent for a moment.\u00a0 Then he heaved a great sigh. Ben felt his son\u2019s weight shift and he steadied him as he rose to his feet.\u00a0 The big man gazed at the rushing water and then turned back to him.\u00a0 \u201cYou really think Joe\u2019s got a chance, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know he does, son,\u201d he assured him.<\/p>\n

Ben too looked at the raging river.\u00a0 He said it again to make sure he believed it.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know<\/em> he does.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t know how it had happened, but he\u2019d suddenly found himself alone in a household of women.<\/p>\n

Oh, Hop Sing was in the house, but he\u2019d beat a hasty retreat to the kitchen the moment their guests appeared at the top of the stairs. Ming-hua and her sisters had heard Tory Jennings crying and been drawn to the distraught girl like moths to flame.\u00a0 They surrounded her now, Biyu and Dandan sitting to each side of her on the settee, while Ming-hua found a perch on the table.\u00a0 He wondered idly as he drifted toward the front door just what Mister Jennings would think if he knew his daughter was being consoled by two…well…ladies of the evening and their little sister, all of whom were Chinese.<\/p>\n

He counted it in Tory\u2019s favor that she was letting it happen.<\/p>\n

Edgar Jennings had come to Eagle Station with his family a half-dozen years before intent on becoming a big fish in a small pond. \u00a0He\u2019d been involved in the mining industry in California and had made a small fortune, and then used that money to buy several mines in their area. \u00a0He had been on the committee in California that had passed the Foreign Miner\u2019s license law in 1850 and four years later spearheaded one of the campaigns to rid the country of the Chinese altogether.\u00a0 Jennings had made it quite clear at a recent town meeting that he disapproved of Ming-hua becoming the sole owner of the millinery she and Rosey had begun together.<\/p>\n

Pa, of course, had defended her right to do so vociferously.<\/p>\n

Quite<\/em> vociferously.<\/p>\n

When he reached the door Adam turned back to look at the flock of females.\u00a0 Unexpectedly, he was overcome with a painful nostalgia.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t known his pa\u2019s last wife long \u2013 barely five years \u2013 but of the three of them, his memories of Marie were the clearest.\u00a0 After all, he\u2019d been thirteen when Pa brought her home. \u00a0He had to admit that she\u2019d softened their male edges a bit. \u00a0Sometimes he even missed the bouquets of flowers that had adorned almost every table and those silly colorful throws she liked to toss around.<\/p>\n

But, most of all, he simply missed her.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cMister Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked out and then down to find Ming-hua had come to his side.\u00a0 \u201cYes?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMing-hua wishes to express her sadness for what has happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

His gaze shot to damp damsel on the settee.\u00a0 \u201cWhat did Tory tell you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe is in trouble.\u201d\u00a0 The girl\u2019s troubled gaze reflected the fact that Tory had told her more<\/em> than that. \u00a0She hesitated and then placed a hand on his sleeve.\u00a0 A bold gesture for one of her race.\u00a0 \u201cIs there anything Ming-hua can do for trouble this brings Little Joe\u2019s brother?\u201d<\/p>\n

Her kindness took him unawares.\u00a0 His eyes misted and he had to blink to clear them. \u201cJust take care of Tory until her father gets here.\u201d\u00a0 He\u2019d sent one of the hands to the Jennings\u2019 place, knowing her family had to be half out of their minds wondering where their child was \u2013 just like they were.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m going to go check on the horses in the stable.\u00a0 The lightning\u2019s probably frightened them.\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded her understanding.\u00a0 \u201cMing-hua and her sisters will ask the ancestors to watch over and protect Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam caught her hand and squeezed it, and then grabbed his coat and beat a hasty retreat out the door before any tears could form.<\/p>\n

Once outside he paused on the porch to put his coat on and pull its heavy collar up against the driving wind.\u00a0 Then he looked in the direction his pa and Dan Tollivar had gone.\u00a0 He wanted to be out there looking for Little Joe \u2013 he was that<\/em> worried about the kid.\u00a0 His father\u2019s veto had made him angry and they\u2019d exchanged a few harsh words before the older man left.\u00a0 The black-haired man sighed as he stepped off of the porch and his lips curled with chagrin.<\/p>\n

Of course, the fact that he was shivering after only a few minutes exposure to the cold and wet night begged the question of which one of them was right.<\/p>\n

A dozen or so long strides brought him to the stable door.\u00a0 He could hear the horses milling about within, some of them whinnying with fright.\u00a0 Those whinnies turned to screams as another bolt of lightning stuck, this time nearer to the house.\u00a0 The storm was almost directly overhead.\u00a0 The good part of that was that it would pass over soon.<\/p>\n

The bad part was that it was here now.<\/p>\n

Changing directions, Adam entered through the smaller door that led into the anteroom instead of the stalls themselves.\u00a0 They always kept a lantern and matches on the table there.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t want to spook the horses anymore than they already were and he thought, if he was clearly illuminated and spoke softly, that they might listen to him and calm down.\u00a0 Carefully lifting the chimney so it was still partially over the wick, he struck a match and applied its fiery head to the cord.\u00a0 The rain pounded down on the roof of the stable as he did and, even though he and his brothers had done their best to keep the structure airtight, the powerful wind wheedled its way through.\u00a0 He was afraid it would blow the lantern out before he got it lit.<\/p>\n

Taking the blazing lantern in hand, Adam turned and moved into the area that held the horses.\u00a0 He needed to figure out which one had screamed, because its fear might prove contagious and all of their horses could startle and hurt themselves.\u00a0 His little brother\u2019s new pinto was in the stable.\u00a0 It had been a birthday present from Pa for Joe\u2019s birthday.\u00a0 Cochise was young and high-strung just like his fifteen-year-old rider and he had a suspicion that Cooch \u2013 as his brother called him \u2013 was the one close to inciting a riot.<\/p>\n

He was heading for Cochise\u2019s stall when a strange noise stopped him in his tracks.<\/p>\n

Someone had coughed.<\/p>\n

Adam held the lantern above his head, illuminating as much of the area as he could . \u201cHello!\u00a0 Is someone there?\u201d<\/p>\n

It happened, he knew.\u00a0 A storm would come up and some weary traveler in need of shelter would take up temporary residence in the first dry building he could find.\u00a0 When there was no reply, Adam moved a few steps further into the open area at the center of the structure.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello?\u201d<\/p>\n

A shadow shifted and a man stepped out \u2013 but not a vagabond or weary traveler like he had expected.\u00a0 The tall thin stranger was obviously Chinese and near Pa\u2019s age from what he could tell in the dim light.\u00a0 He had a long thin face with lips to match.\u00a0 A narrow mustache topped them.\u00a0 When he shifted the lantern for a\u00a0 better look, the light struck the man\u2019s heavy black damask coat.\u00a0 It was something like the one Hop Sing donned for special occasions.\u00a0 The only difference was, while their cook\u2019s was fairly unadorned, this man\u2019s had a deep silver-edged silk border heavily embroidered with blue and wine flowers, with rampant dragons at the corners.<\/p>\n

He was obviously a man of wealth and power.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis humble traveler begs the pardon of most honorable sir for taking shelter in his barn without permission.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right.\u00a0 It\u2019s happened before,\u201d he responded.\u00a0 Another crack of lightning drew his attention back to the world outside.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s pretty wild out there.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man nodded.\u00a0 \u201cOnce the tiger is loosed, it cannot be contained until it seeks its own bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, well.\u00a0 Let\u2019s hope it\u2019s bed<\/em> is in the next territory over.\u201d\u00a0 Adam eyed the horses.\u00a0 They were shifting and snorting but seemed, for the moment, under control.\u00a0 \u201cMay I ask what brings you out on such a night?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one was headed to Eagle Station when the lightning caused his horse to bolt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou walked<\/em> here?\u201d<\/p>\n

Another nod.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s so important in Eagle Station?\u201d he asked and then, immediately, recognized the question as rude.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 It\u2019s none of my business.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one begs to differ. \u00a0Payment for hospitality is due.\u00a0 Da Chao comes in search of one who is of his family.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam racked his brain.\u00a0 He\u2019d had fifteen years to learn Chinese and hadn\u2019t bothered.\u00a0 What did that say for his vaunted intelligence and cosmopolitan leanings? \u00a0Both names were masculine from what he remembered and had something to do with physical or mental power, making this man one to be reckoned with. \u00a0He wondered who he was related to in Eagle Station.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s lips quirked.\u00a0 Somehow he didn\u2019t think Chao was one of Hop Sing\u2019s thousand cousins. His words were subservient.\u00a0 The stranger\u2019s tone, anything but.<\/p>\n

\u201cMay this one ask on whose land he now dwells?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is our spread, my Pa and my brothers.\u00a0 We call it the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man\u2019s lips turned up in a reserved smile.\u00a0 \u201cAh, the home of the honorable house of Cartwright.\u00a0 I have heard\u00a0 much of them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey are spoken of still in the establishment which I own.\u00a0 This one has been told of their great courage in seeking the one who was lost to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam frowned.\u00a0 \u201cAnd you are from…?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cVallejo.\u201d<\/p>\n

The frown deepened.\u00a0 Vallejo.\u00a0 It took a second, but then he remembered.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s kidnapping by Wade Bosh.<\/p>\n

It had been one of the most severe trials his family had ever passed through.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean when my father went there searching for my brother?\u201d\u00a0 As the man nodded, he continued, \u201cand which establishment would that be?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOne, honorable sir, that it would be my pleasure to introduce you to should your path ever lead there.\u00a0 This one believes you would find its wares<\/em> much to your taste.\u00a0 It is known as The Delectable Dragon<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

Every muscle in Adam\u2019s lean form went rigid.\u00a0 \u201cYou<\/em> are Madame Ah Kum\u2019s husband?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see, honorable son of Benjamin Cartwright, that you are acquainted with the knowledge of who I am,\u201d Da Chao said as he moved forward.\u00a0 \u201cMight you also be acquainted with those who work for me who were headed for the mighty Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam noted how Chao\u2019s speech had changed, becoming more Anglicanized.\u00a0 There was something else going on here.<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t miss a beat.\u00a0 \u201cSorry.\u00a0 I don\u2019t know who you\u2019re talking about.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao moved a step closer.\u00a0 His black eyes narrowed and his voice dropped in pitch.\u00a0 \u201cSo you do not admit to having, within your walls, two who belong to me?\u00a0 Dandan and Biyu, the wife of Longwei, have not sought sanctuary here?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

The Chinese man came even closer.\u00a0 \u201cIt would be wise for you, son of Benjamin Cartwright, to speak honestly.\u00a0 I<\/em> intend you no harm, but I cannot speak for the son of my sister whose bride has shamed him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes darted back and forth, searching the shadows.\u00a0 So far he had only seen Da Chao.\u00a0 Perhaps Ah Kum\u2019s husband had come alone to give them a warning before this Longwei took matters into his own hands.<\/p>\n

Perhaps, but probably not.<\/p>\n

His hazel eyes returned to the tall thin man standing before him. \u00a0Almost imperceptible he saw Chao nod.<\/p>\n

Between that heartbeat and the next an arm circled his throat, taking him in a chokehold.<\/p>\n

Da Chao finished his advance, coming so close he could feel the other man\u2019s breath on his cheek.\u00a0 \u201cWe will go into the house of Benjamin Cartwright and see for ourselves whether his son speaks the truth.\u201d\u00a0 Chao held his gaze, reading in it Adam\u2019s unspoken question.\u00a0 \u201cAnd if he is not, then it will not be he who pays for his dishonesty.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut those he loves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

John Randolph ducked into the cave and leaned heavily against the wall.\u00a0 The storm had grown in strength until it raged like the Titans of old.\u00a0 Fearful for his young charge, he had abandoned what had passed as a camp and carried the boy through the tempest in search of better shelter.\u00a0 By the time he found it, they were both soaked to the skin and there was nothing dry left to change into or wrap around either one of them.\u00a0 He\u2019d laughed when he realized he would have to start a fire in the way the savages<\/em> did.\u00a0 He\u2019d worked among them for a short time since his emigration to America and seen how they could use sticks or the sun or both<\/em> to magick flames out of nothing.\u00a0 Of course, there was<\/em> no sun and so he\u2019d been left with sticks and only a vague memory of how to begin.<\/p>\n

It had taken him nearly an hour, but he\u2019d managed it.<\/p>\n

Pushing off the wall, the Englishman turned toward the blaze and the sickly boy lying beside it.\u00a0 He\u2019d heated a blanket as quickly as he could to take the damp and chill away from the heavy cloth and then wrapped it around Joe Cartwright\u2019s trembling form.\u00a0 Then he\u2019d placed him as close to the fire as could be safely done and set about caring for him. \u00a0As he rummaged through his pack, he despaired of the items he\u2019d been forced to abandon along with his camp.\u00a0 Among them were some of his most prized possessions, ruined now, no doubt, by the inclement weather.\u00a0 Before picking Joe up, he had managed to loop over his head a satchel that contained food and a few personal items, including several bottles of medicine which he\u2019d packed in case the recurrent fever that plagued him chose to return during his American sojourn.\u00a0 It was an old ailment he bore from his military days in India. \u00a0His physician had prescribed a remedy made from the bark of the Cinchona tree.<\/p>\n

He hoped it would be of some use in keeping young Joseph Cartwright alive.<\/p>\n

As he swaddled him, John paid close attention to the boy\u2019s body.\u00a0 There were a good many bruises engendered by his journey down the river, but the ones that bothered him the most were about young Joe\u2019s neck.\u00a0 It was plain to see the impression of fingers in the boy\u2019s white flesh.\u00a0 Someone had tried to strangle him and then, it seemed, dumped his barely conscious form into the river in hopes that he would drown.\u00a0 Squatting down and reaching out, the Englishman shoved some of the curls back from Little Joe\u2019s forehead.\u00a0 Jude had said the boy resembled him when he was young and he could see why.\u00a0 Jude had been more slender than Ben Cartwright\u2019s son when he first met him, but then, as a boy Jude had been abandoned and left to die before his father found him and took him in.\u00a0 At first, he and his siblings had been resentful of their father\u2019s \u2018urchin\u2019, but in time he had come to thank God for his adopted brother who was one of the best men he knew.<\/p>\n

John snorted.\u00a0 A better man than him, that<\/em> was for certain.<\/p>\n

After his father\u2019s death, he had readily accepted the presidency of the Randolph Shipping Company and intended to do right by his father and for<\/em> his sister, Joanna.\u00a0 It had taken less than a year for him to find out that he had no knack for business.\u00a0 His father had been grooming him for years but, if the truth was known, he\u2019d only played at it at best. \u00a0His interests lay in the arts. \u00a0It was what had brought him to America.<\/p>\n

That and the desire to meet the Cartwrights whom he had heard so much about.<\/p>\n

As soon as Jude came back to England and agreed to take over as head of the company, he had begun to wander.\u00a0 He\u2019d gone first to the continent where he\u2019d visited Rome and Egypt to study their arts, and then decided to come to America.\u00a0 Jude\u2019s tales of this country and of its inhabitants had intrigued him and he felt he had to see them for himself and paint them.<\/p>\n

Painting was his life and breath \u2013 if not his bread and butter.<\/p>\n

That <\/em>was cooking.<\/p>\n

When he\u2019d arrived in America, it had been in San Francisco.\u00a0 He\u2019d worked in the kitchens of several fine hotels \u2013 earning his own way, which was something new for him \u2013 and had been delighted by the sense of accomplishment it brought.\u00a0 Wherever he went, he told people he had no family and was, if not penniless, without means.\u00a0 In a way it was true, for he had brought little of his family\u2019s fortune with him \u2013 just enough to pay for his passage and buy supplies.\u00a0 Eventually a job had been recommended to him in Vallejo.\u00a0 A local establishment was looking for a chef to cook light meals and small delicacies.\u00a0 The pay was very good, the load would be light, and it would leave him time to paint.\u00a0 As Nevada was his final destination, it seemed wise to take a job closer to the territory, and that was how he had found himself at The Delectable Dragon<\/em>.<\/p>\n

John\u2019s gaze returned to Joe Cartwright.<\/p>\n

And how he\u2019d learned the details of this boy\u2019s trial and his courage.<\/p>\n

John ran a hand through his chin-length blond locks and tossed the fringe that hung on his high forehead back.\u00a0 He was no innocent and it hadn\u2019t taken him long to realize just what kind of an establishment The Dragon<\/em> was.\u00a0 There was a dark underbelly to the salon that traded not only in China girls, but in strong, young white men who were shanghaied and never seen again.\u00a0 He\u2019d intended to quit before, well, before what happened, happened.<\/p>\n

If only he had.<\/p>\n

A low moan emitted from his charge drew John back to the present. \u00a0He quickly made his way over to Ben Cartwright\u2019s boy who was waking up.\u00a0 Kneeling beside him, the Englishman picked up the cup with the dilution of Cinchona and held it to the boy\u2019s lips, urging him to drink.\u00a0 Joe made a face at the bitter concoction and weakly shook his head.<\/p>\n

John took the boy\u2019s warm hand in his own.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ve been calling for your father, Joe.\u00a0 Do you want to see him again?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s thick eyebrows met in the middle.\u00a0 He shifted and coughed, the sound of it rattling in his chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa….\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re ill.\u00a0 This will help you get better and help you to have the strength to travel home.\u201d\u00a0 His voice was calm, even \u2013 gentle.\u00a0 \u201cYour father will be waiting and hoping, Joe.\u00a0 You don\u2019t want to let him down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut…it tastes…awful….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOne has to be cruel to be kind sometimes,\u201d he answered.<\/p>\n

That brought an unexpected smile to the boy\u2019s lips.\u00a0 \u201cShows you what a…fool Englishman in…tights and lace knows….\u201d<\/p>\n

John was startled.\u00a0 \u201cYou know Shakespeare?\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy coughed again.\u00a0 His fingers reached for his bruised throat.\u00a0 \u201cOnly…cause brother Adam…forced me to.\u201d\u00a0 Joe paused to draw a raspy breath.\u00a0 \u201cI got one…for you….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I gotta…screw my courage to…the sticking point.\u201d\u00a0 Joe\u2019s smile was the smile of an angel.\u00a0 \u201cGuess I\u2019ll drink your…poison….\u201d<\/p>\n

He liked this boy.\u00a0 Very<\/em> much.<\/p>\n

As Joe Cartwright drifted back to sleep, John Randolph rose and walked to the cave mouth.\u00a0 Looking out, he saw the storm had moved away in the direction of Eagle Station.\u00a0 Soon it would be over.\u00a0 In the morning he would have to decide what to do.\u00a0 Of course, a lot depended on whether or not Joe could travel.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t feel right leaving the boy behind, but he knew that Joe\u2019s family would be desperate to know he was alive.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s father had troubled deaf Heaven with his bootless cries nearly three years before to locate him and he doubted anything short of Heaven\u2019s hand would stop Ben Cartwright now.<\/p>\n

The Englishman scowled.\u00a0 Unless, of course, it was the troubles he had brought with him.\u00a0 As the Bard said, when they came, they came not in single spies but in battalions.<\/p>\n

He could only hope they would all survive the war.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

FIVE<\/p>\n

Dandan released the red curtain and let it fall back into place.\u00a0 She had left Biyu and the Jennings girl and gone to the window behind Ben Cartwright\u2019s desk to watch the handsome oldest son of Benjamin Cartwright walk to the stable.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s sparkling eyes, that were the color of nephrite jade, held such kindness for two such unworthy ones as she and her sister.\u00a0 In them there was no condemnation.\u00a0 With a sigh, the beautiful Chinese woman turned back into the great room.\u00a0 She found herself drawn to the striking white man, but knew she must not act upon her feelings.\u00a0 Dandan\u2019s black eyes sought Biyu, who was seated on the striped settee.<\/p>\n

Disasters do not walk alone<\/em>, their mother had wisely taught them.<\/p>\n

From the letters they had received from Ming-hua over the last few years, she felt she had come to know this family and she had no wish to bring them harm.\u00a0 The elder, Benjamin Cartwright, was a like the Chinese Dragon \u2013 strong, with a love of his sons that was fierce.\u00a0 Benjamin\u2019s number one son was like Quinui, the eldest of the Dragon\u2019s sons, deep and thoughtful, with an interest in books and music.\u00a0 His number two son was a fearsome giant of a man, but like Dragon\u2019s fifth son, Suanni, there was no harm in him and he desired only peace.\u00a0 Dandan smiled as she thought of Mister Cartwright\u2019s number three son.\u00a0 Little Joe was Pulao.<\/p>\n

He liked to roar.<\/p>\n

The Chinese woman\u2019s smile quickly faded as her thoughts returned to her sister.\u00a0 The one who followed them \u2013 Longwei, whom her younger sister had been bound to against her will \u2013 was like Yazi, the warlike son of the Dragon who had a head like his father and the body of a jackal.\u00a0 Longwei desired power and loved no one but himself.<\/p>\n

He would kill them and any who offered them shelter if they came into his power.<\/p>\n

If it had not been for Biyu\u2019s being with child, she would never have agreed to come to this house.\u00a0 There were other paths they could have taken.\u00a0 Each of them had a small amount of money.\u00a0 They could have boarded a ship and sailed for home.\u00a0 Dandan closed her eyes at the thought of \u2018home\u2019.\u00a0 There had been too many mouths in their household to feed.\u00a0 Once they were old enough, she and her two sisters had been sold and sent to America.\u00a0 Did their mother, Boazhai, still live, she wondered?\u00a0 Their father?\u00a0 And what of their five brothers?<\/p>\n

Upon their arrival in the West they had been taken immediately to Da Chao and Ah Kum, who owned them.\u00a0 While young, she and Biyu had cared for the older man and his young wife as had Ming-hua, but once old enough they had been made to work at The Delectable Dragon<\/em>.\u00a0 First, they had served food and drinks.\u00a0 When they turned sixteen, they were made to go upstairs and to serve themselves<\/em> instead.<\/p>\n

Dandan ran a hand through her long silken hair and tucked an errant strand behind her ear.\u00a0 Three years before, a most unusual man had come into The Dragon<\/em> seeking his lost son.\u00a0 She and Biyu had been too frightened to help him, but Ming-hua had not.\u00a0 Their little sister shamed them by seeking this man out and telling him how his son had been held captive at The Dragon.<\/em>\u00a0 In the end, due to her actions, the boy was found.\u00a0 To reward her, Ming-hua was given a new home with Rosey O\u2019Rourke.\u00a0 What Ming-hua had done by this was very dangerous.<\/p>\n

She had given them hope that there was an escape.<\/p>\n

Never<\/em> before had they dreamed escape possible.\u00a0 From that moment on, she and Biyu grew more and more restless.\u00a0 There was something more \u2013 something better<\/em> for them, and it lay beyond the gilded doors of The Dragon.<\/em> \u00a0And yet, they were frightened.\u00a0 They had never lived on their own before, and America\u2019s West was not kind to people of their race.\u00a0 Many hated them just for being Chinese, and those who did not were afraid of the ones who did.<\/p>\n

Benjamin Cartwright was not afraid.<\/p>\n

\u201cMister Adam is not back yet?\u201d Biyu asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe tends their animals.\u00a0 It will take some time.\u201d\u00a0 Dandan frowned.\u00a0 Her eyes searched the room.\u00a0 \u201cWhere is Tory?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou did not see honorable Hop Sing take her to a room upstairs?\u201d<\/p>\n

No.\u00a0 She had been too busy thinking.<\/p>\n

With a shake of her head, the eldest of the Chinese sisters turned back to the window to watch for Adam Cartwright\u2019s return.\u00a0 \u00a0The Jennings girl was a problem.\u00a0 She was very young and most unwise.\u00a0 She believed she was in love and because of that, had sought to take Little Joe\u2019s innocence.\u00a0 This was not love, but selfishness.\u00a0 The girl did not care about him, but only about herself.<\/p>\n

Dandan glanced at her pregnant sister and sighed.<\/p>\n

White.\u00a0 Yellow.\u00a0 Black.\u00a0 Red.<\/p>\n

It was all the same.<\/p>\n

Pushing the curtain aside once again, Dandan looked out at the yard \u2013 and drew a sharp breath.\u00a0 There was something else that remained same.<\/p>\n

It was never wise to cover your ears while stealing the bell.<\/p>\n

They had been careless.<\/p>\n

Da Chao had found them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright stood outside beneath the stars.\u00a0 As usual, with the passing of the storm, nature had reasserted itself with startling beauty.\u00a0 A light rain still fell, but for the most part the storm was over and what had been left behind was a black velvet sky punctuated by diamond-white stars.\u00a0 The breeze was cool but not chilly.\u00a0 He felt comfortable in his blue shirt and vest.\u00a0 Summer was on its way and would soon exert its power over the land, baking the earth, stirring up dust and turning the tall desert grasses the color of ripened wheat, but for now everything was green and alive.\u00a0 It was one of his favorite pastimes, stepping outside and standing under the stars.\u00a0 Waiting for the door behind him to open.\u00a0 Listening for the sound of his youngest\u2019s footsteps.\u00a0 Wrapping an arm around that slender frame.<\/p>\n

Dear Lord, how his arms ached<\/em> for that boy!<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d the rancher breathed.\u00a0 \u201cSon, where are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBen?\u201d<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t his son, but Dan Tollivar who stood behind him.\u00a0 Ben nodded a greeting to his friend.\u00a0 \u201cCan\u2019t sleep either?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Dan snorted and then grinned.\u00a0 \u201cThat middle boy of yours, well, you oughta hire him out to one of the mills.\u00a0 Ain\u2019t no one better at sawin\u2019 logs.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher frowned.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Dan.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be,\u201d the wrangler said as he moved past and took a seat on a flat-topped rock near the cave mouth. \u201cLeastwise, he\u2019s<\/em> sleepin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss had sworn he wouldn\u2019t sleep \u2013 that he couldn\u2019t, not with Little Joe missing.\u00a0 Knowing his middle boy, he would feel extremely guilty when he woke up.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe feels responsible for what happened to Joseph and I suppose in a way he is.\u201d\u00a0 Ben stopped abruptly, aware of what he had just said. \u00a0\u201cNot that I blame him, you understand \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCourse, you don\u2019t.\u00a0 But you might let the boy think you do<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

He scowled.\u00a0 \u201cWhy in the world would I do that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou taught them boys of yours to be responsible, Ben, and Hoss to be a man.\u00a0 When a man\u2019s done wrong he needs to make it right, else he can\u2019t let that wrong go.\u201d\u00a0 The old cowpoke cocked his head and one corner of his lips curled.\u00a0 \u201cHoss needs you to tell him he done wrong and he\u2019s forgiven. Tellin\u2019 him he did nothin\u2019 wrong ain\u2019t the same as acceptin\u2019 that he did and forgivin\u2019 him for it.\u00a0 That\u2019s what the young feller needs.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dan was older than him and in some ways had been the elder brother he had never known.\u00a0 The wrangler was one of the few men who could chastise him and not end up with a bloody nose or split lip for doing so.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what you\u2019re saying is that I am…cheapening<\/em> my son\u2019s act of contrition by saying he doesn\u2019t need to be<\/em> contrite?\u201d<\/p>\n

The wrangler took his hat off and scratched his thinning hair.\u00a0 \u201cIs that what I said?\u00a0 Sounds right smart,\u201d he added with a wink.<\/p>\n

Ben laughed.\u00a0 \u201cForgive me, my oldest son must be rubbing off on me.\u00a0 That\u2019s what I get for sending him to college!\u00a0 What you mean is that I need to accept Hoss\u2019 apology and let him know that he\u2019s forgiven by me so he can forgive himself.\u201d<\/p>\n

His friend was nodding.\u00a0 \u201cExactly!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Dan, just when did you get to be so \u2013\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Ben stopped short.\u00a0 A scream had split the night.\u00a0 Such a sound was not unusual to him.\u00a0 It usually meant his youngest was caught in the throes of a nightmare. Only Joseph wasn\u2019t here.<\/p>\n

Hoss was.<\/p>\n

He looked at Dan and then dashed inside the cave.<\/p>\n

His middle son was thrashing from side to side, muttering and moaning in his sleep.\u00a0 Ben couldn\u2019t make out any of the words, but it was obvious Hoss was in distress.\u00a0 Dropping beside the young man, he carefully reached out and touched his shoulder.\u00a0 His experience with Joseph and his nightmares had taught him to keep his distance.\u00a0 Sometimes his young son would rear up, fists swinging.\u00a0 If the same thing happened with Hoss, the twenty-two year old could do some real damage that he would later regret.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon.\u00a0 Son, it\u2019s Pa.\u00a0 Wake up!\u00a0 Son!\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss continued to moan and pitch.<\/p>\n

Ben increased the pressure on his shoulder. \u201cHoss!\u00a0 Wake up!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou want I should get some water to toss on him?\u201d Dan asked.<\/p>\n

He held up a hand.\u00a0 He knew, again \u2013 from experience \u2013 that such an abrupt awakening might bring its own problems.\u00a0 Daring it, he reached out and caught his son\u2019s arms in his hands.<\/p>\n

Gripping them tightly, he yelled, \u201cHoss!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Abruptly, his son went still.\u00a0 Hoss\u2019 eyelashes fluttered and those incomparable blue eyes opened.\u00a0 For a second, the big man seemed to be lost.\u00a0 Then he grinned sheepishly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWas I makin\u2019 a ruckus like little brother?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben relaxed his grip as he returned the smile.\u00a0 \u201cYou could have given Joseph a run for his money.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s eyes teared at the thought of his little brother.\u00a0 \u201cI sure do hate to think of Joe\u2019s bein\u2019 out there somewhere, Pa, all alone and maybe hurt or….\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher acknowledged their shared pain.\u00a0 \u201cIt will be light soon.\u00a0 We\u2019ll start the search the moment we can look for signs.\u201d\u00a0 Ben rocked back on his heels.\u00a0 \u201cSounds like you were having quite a dream.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss had shifted and was sitting up.\u00a0 His middle son ran a hand along the back of his neck and blew out a sigh.\u00a0 \u201cIt weren\u2019t a dream, Pa.\u00a0 It was sure-as-shootin\u2019 a nightmare.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s your mind releasing the fears of the day.\u00a0 With Little Joe missing \u2013 \u201d\u00a0 He stopped.\u00a0 Hoss had an odd look on his face.\u00a0 \u201cSon?\u201d<\/p>\n

The big man frowned.\u00a0 \u201cThat there nightmare weren\u2019t about Little Joe, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s dark brows winged toward his graying hair.\u00a0 \u201cNo?\u00a0 Then what was it about?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss chewed his lip for a moment.\u00a0 \u201cI cain\u2019t rightly recall all of it.\u00a0 You sent me home to get some more supplies so\u2019s we could keep searchin\u2019 for Joe.\u00a0 When I got to the house somethin\u2019 just wasn\u2019t right.\u00a0 I pushed the door open and it was all dark inside.\u00a0 That scared me.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss looked at him. \u201cYou know Hop Sing don\u2019t let the fire go out this time of year.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben was frowning.\u00a0 \u201cGo on.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, sir, I went inside and started callin\u2019 out for brother Adam.\u00a0 I knew he should of been there, so I started to get upset thinkin\u2019 maybe somethin\u2019 was wrong.\u00a0 I was walkin\u2019 through the house when my foot his somethin\u2019.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t see what it was, so I had to bend down and feel.\u201d\u00a0 His son paused as if unsure of what to say next.\u00a0 Those sky blue eyes sought his near-black ones.\u00a0 \u201cIt were awful.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, son?\u00a0 What <\/em>was awful?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was Adam.\u00a0 He\u2019d been…hurt.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss paused, his voice robbed of strength by the memory of what he had seen.\u00a0 \u201cWhen I put my hands on him, they came away all covered with blood.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben gave his son\u2019s shoulder a squeeze.\u00a0 When he spoke, he was surprised to hear his own voice shake.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sure your worry about your little brother has brought this on, son.\u00a0 Adam is in no danger.\u201d<\/p>\n

The big man nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI know that, sir.\u00a0 It\u2019s just well….\u00a0 It was awful<\/em> real, Pa.\u00a0 If it weren\u2019t for Little Joe bein\u2019 missin\u2019, I\u2019d hightail it right back to the Ponderosa and make sure Adam was okay.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben rose to his feet.\u00a0 His eyes met Dan Tollivar\u2019s.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go,\u201d Dan said with a nod.\u00a0 \u201cYou don\u2019t need three to follow the river and look for the boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher was caught between his concern for Joseph and a rising fear where Adam was concerned.\u00a0 What could have gone wrong?\u00a0 Was this just a dream his son had experienced, an intuition \u2013 or a message from God?<\/p>\n

Ben nodded.\u00a0 \u201cThank you, Dan.\u00a0 I think Hoss will feel better if someone goes home to check.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was rising to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cI sure will, Dan.\u00a0 Thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothin\u2019 to it, son,\u201d the wrangler remarked.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll leave at first light.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man had started to walk away when Ben thought of something.\u00a0 \u201cDan?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Ben?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you find everything all right at the house \u2013 as I am sure you will \u2013 why don\u2019t you go on and join the men on the drive?\u00a0 Hoss and I will finish here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dan tipped his hat.\u00a0 \u201cSure thing, Boss,\u201d he said with a half-grin and then headed for his horse.<\/p>\n

Ben turned to Hoss and gave him a reassuring clap on the shoulder and then went back outside to once again stand beneath the stars.\u00a0 He drew in a breath of fresh air and tried to shake off any lingering fear.\u00a0 Even if there was trouble, Adam was a man now and perfectly capable of looking out for himself.<\/p>\n

So why, he wondered, did he fear he now had two<\/em> boys in mortal peril instead of one?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stumbled as he was shoved roughly through the ranch house door and nearly fell.\u00a0 His hazel eyes took in the great room as he entered, noting the only person in view was Hop Sing.\u00a0 The man from China was stoking the fire and nearly dropped the poker when he saw them come in. \u00a0Neither Dandan nor Biyu were in sight.\u00a0 As the black-haired man breathed a sigh of relief, Longwei grabbed him by the upper arm and placed the sharpened tip of his short sword under his throat.\u00a0 It was at that moment Ming-hua chose to appear at the top of the stairs.\u00a0 Adam saw the girl stiffen and then, bold as brass, come down the steps and walk straight up to Da Chao as if everything was as ordinary as could be.<\/p>\n

He admired her grit.<\/p>\n

Ming-hua bowed and greeted the older man.\u00a0 \u201cHonorable Da Chao, it has been many years,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

Adam noted that Hop Sing blanched when he heard Chao\u2019s name.\u00a0 The man from China placed the poker against the hearth wall and then joined Ming-hua, moving slightly in front of her.\u00a0 He bowed as well before speaking.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing greets the great Da Chao.\u00a0 Ming-hua has made him known to this unimportant one.\u00a0 Girl says Da Chao is counted an honorable man by all who know him.\u00a0 Benjamin Cartwright is honorable man as well.\u00a0 He would welcome you to his home.\u201d\u00a0 Their cook\u2019s eyes flicked to him and back to the tong leader.\u00a0 \u201cWhy you come as enemy, threatening his son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf Benjamin Cartwright was an honorable man, he would not have stolen from Da Chao!\u201d Longwei proclaimed gruffly.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing addressed the tong leader. He ignored Longwei\u2019s statement as if the younger man\u2019s opinion did not matter.\u00a0 \u201cThis one begs pardon of honorable sir, but chooses to remind honorable Da Chao Ming-hua belongs to him no longer. \u00a0Price for girl was paid by Benjamin Cartwright many years ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao spoke at last.\u00a0 \u201cYou are correct.\u00a0 Ming-hua has been granted her freedom.\u00a0 It is not this one whose presence in this house is a crime.\u201d\u00a0 The tong leader\u2019s black eyes narrowed.\u00a0 \u201cYou will tell me where Dandan and Biyu are.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ming-hua answered.\u00a0 \u201cHumbly forgive this intrusion, great Da Chao.\u00a0 Ming-hua\u2019s sisters are in Vallejo.\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader turned toward her.\u00a0 \u201cI see the white man has taught you many things, Tomorrow\u2019s Flower,\u201d the tall thin man said, his voice taking on a tone of menace. \u00a0\u201cChief among them how to lie.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGirl no tell lie!\u201d Hop Sing insisted.\u00a0 He opened his arms wide.\u00a0 \u201cHonorable Da Chao search house.\u00a0 Find Ming-hua\u2019s sisters not here!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis man lies, Da Chao!\u00a0 Their tracks lead here.\u201d\u00a0 Longwei\u2018s grip tightened on his arm and Adam felt the blade nick his skin.\u00a0 He addressed Hop Sing.\u00a0 \u201cYou will speak the truth, unworthy one, or this <\/em>one will die!\u201d<\/p>\n

Their cook faced Longwei.\u00a0 \u201cThis one lead you through Mistah Cartwright\u2019s house.\u00a0 Look in every corner.\u00a0 Under each bed.\u00a0 Girls not here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam swallowed, which pressed the tip of blade even further into his skin, causing a little trail of blood to trickle down his neck. \u00a0He had no idea what game Hop Sing was playing.\u00a0 Dandan and Biyu had been here when he had left the house less than an hour before.\u00a0 They could have had no sense of danger \u2013 unless they saw him coming out of the barn as a prisoner.<\/p>\n

Even if they did \u2013 where could they hide?<\/p>\n

Da Chao was silent a moment.\u00a0 Then he said, \u201cLongwei will accompany you, most honorable Hop Sing.\u00a0 Mister Cartwright and this one have business to discuss.\u201d<\/p>\n

The younger man snarled and tightened his grip on the sword.\u00a0 \u201cI will slit his throat, Da Chao!\u00a0 When Ben Cartwright comes home and finds his first son drowned in his own blood, he will know we mean business!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou must excuse my sister\u2019s son, Mister Cartwright,\u201d Da Chao sighed. \u00a0\u201cLongwei has not yet grown plumage and is a fledgling bird who would drain a pond to fish.\u201d\u00a0 The older man turned and met his nephew\u2019s defiant stare.\u00a0 \u201cYou will release him now!\u201d<\/p>\n

For a second the blade dug deeper.\u00a0 Then it was pulled back and he was thrust to the floor.\u00a0 Longwei strode over to Hop Sing.\u00a0 For a moment he stood there, towering over the smaller man.\u00a0 Then he took their cook by the arm and thrust him toward the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cShow me!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam noted Hop Sing did not bow, but simply went upstairs before the other man.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t help but smile.<\/p>\n

Their cook was being cheeky tonight.<\/p>\n

He felt a hand on his arm.\u00a0 Adam rose with Da Chao\u2019s help and remained still as the older man studied his throat.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe cut is not deep,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

His fingers went to it.\u00a0 \u201cNo.\u00a0 Thank you for keeping it from going any deeper<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao nodded.\u00a0 \u201cThis you must believe.\u00a0 It is not my intent to bring harm to the house of Cartwright.\u00a0 It is<\/em> my intent to regain what has been stolen.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThese are women you\u2019re talking about, not property!\u201d Adam growled.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, but there you are wrong.\u201d \u00a0Da Chao\u2019s eyes narrowed and his mouth drew into a thin line.\u00a0 \u201cIt is I who \u00a0paid their passage and have kept them ever since.\u00a0 Even if it was not so, Biyu is bound to my sister\u2019s son.\u00a0 She is Longwei\u2019s property.\u00a0 Do your laws not also say the same?\u201d<\/p>\n

He had him there.\u00a0 Women had few rights under the law.\u00a0 One day it would be different, but for now \u2013 in some ways \u2013 men\u2019s wives were indeed<\/em> their \u2018property\u2019.<\/p>\n

Adam opened his mouth to object and to remind Da Chao that Biyu had been forced into the marriage.\u00a0 Fortunately, he caught himself in time.\u00a0 Saying that<\/em> would have been an admission that the women were <\/em>on the Ponderosa and he\u2019d spoken to them.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, whether she is Longwei\u2019s property or not has nothing to do with us,\u201d he replied coolly.\u00a0 \u201cBiyu is not here and neither is Dandan.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam held his breath.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t sure whose poker face was better, his or Da Chao\u2019s.<\/p>\n

The older man nodded again.\u00a0 \u201cIf this is the case, then this one must humbly beg pardon.\u00a0 This he will do after he speaks to the honorable Benjamin Cartwright who may know more than his son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam stifled a sigh. He\u2019d been afraid of that.\u00a0 Da Chao would hold them captive until such time as his father returned, and then he would use the threat of harming them to get his father to tell the truth. \u00a0The irony was, he couldn\u2019t have told the tong leader what he wanted to know even if he had<\/em> been willing to.<\/p>\n

He had no idea<\/em> where the two women had gone.<\/p>\n

At that moment Hop Sing appeared at the top of the staircase.\u00a0 Longwei came up behind him and shoved him, nearly causing him to fall down the stairs.\u00a0 Hop Sing caught himself as he reached the landing and then descended the rest of the steps to the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnything?\u201d Da Chao asked his nephew.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no one upstairs,\u201d Longwei snarled, disappointment dripping from every word.\u00a0 \u201cWe go to search the kitchen now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReturn when you have completed your search and bring Hop Sing back with you.\u201d Da Chao turned to him as he finished speaking.\u00a0 \u201cIt is with regret that this one must order both you and your man servant to be bound.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing isn\u2019t a servant. He\u2019s a friend,\u201d he groused.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen this one regrets he must bind both you and your friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s gaze went to Ming-hua. After greeting the tong leader, she had gone to the settee and taken a seat.\u00a0 She was there now, watching the proceedings with wide eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about her?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

He had never seen Da Chao smile.\u00a0 He did now.<\/p>\n

It was not a pleasant sight.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no need.\u00a0 Ming-hua knows well what Longwei is capable of.\u00a0 Though this one seeks to restrain him, it is not always possible.\u201d\u00a0 That said, Chao addressed the girl.\u00a0 \u201cYou will prepare food for us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam saw her tremble as she rose to her feet.\u00a0 Ming-hua bowed her agreement and then rounded the settee and headed for the kitchen.\u00a0 As she passed Da Chao, he caught her arm.<\/p>\n

\u201cWisdom would advise you do not try to escape,\u201d he warned.\u00a0 \u201cIf you do, those you care for will pay the price.\u201d<\/p>\n

With a glance in his direction, Ming-hua nodded.\u00a0 As she made her way to the hall attached to the kitchen, Longwei and Hop Sing reappeared. \u00a0Adam\u2019s jaw tightened when he saw the red mark on his friend\u2019s face.\u00a0 Obviously Longwei had taken advantage of the tong leader\u2019s absence to exact payment for his frustration.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing met his angry gaze and shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing?\u201d Da Chao demanded.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Longwei replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen, we wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t take long.\u00a0 Within minutes he and Hop Sing were trussed up like prize pigs and thrust into the chairs to roast before the fire.\u00a0 As Da Chao headed for the front door, Longwei paced like a caged lion.\u00a0 Chao\u2019s nephew was a powder keg, just waiting for a spark to set it off.<\/p>\n

It was his fear that that spark would prove to be his father or one of his brothers coming unsuspectingly through the door.<\/p>\n

For the first time since his youngest brother had gone missing, Adam hoped it was a long<\/em> time before Pa and Hoss found Joe and brought him home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

John Randolph crouched in a tall stand of grasses, one hand parting the deep green blades; the other covering Joe Cartwright\u2019s mouth. Morning had come and when he tried to discuss their options with the boy, he quickly found out there was only one<\/em> \u2013 give Benjamin Cartwright\u2019s youngest son his rein and do his best to keep the boy from killing himself.\u00a0 There had been no question of staying put and waiting until they were discovered.\u00a0 The boy would have none of it.\u00a0 He wanted to go home.\u00a0 And so, after helping Little Joe into his dried, if somewhat tatterdemalion clothes, they set out.<\/p>\n

Their first stop had been his former camp in order to salvage what they could.\u00a0 It had sickened him to find some of his paintings ruined. Miraculously those tucked into his leather satchel had survived the deluge as had a block of his paper and his paints.\u00a0 Among them was a watercolor portrait.\u00a0 In spite of everything, John permitted himself a smile.\u00a0 It was a small blessing, as the piece was among his favorites. \u00a0It showed both Biyu and Dandan.\u00a0 The pair were stunningly beautiful, but sad.\u00a0 As an artist he was pledged to remain true to life and the portrait showed clearly what that life had been for them \u2013 a daily hell where they were used and abused.<\/p>\n

After retrieving his horse who, God bless him, had still been tethered to a tree and was happily munching on grass, he\u2019d placed the ailing boy in the saddle and then mounted behind him.\u00a0 They\u2019d been traveling as best they could for several hours \u2013 with a determined Joe swaying in the saddle \u2013 when he\u2019d heard something out of place.\u00a0 Reining in his horse, he\u2019d listened and quickly discerned voices.\u00a0 After helping Joe dismount and leaving the boy propped against a tree, he walked the bay into the woods and left her tethered to a bush.\u00a0 By the time he got back the curly-headed boy was laying on the ground, shivering.\u00a0 Dropping to Joe\u2019s side, he\u2019d touched his skin and found it hot.\u00a0 As he roused, the boy started coughing, which was why he had placed his hand over his mouth in order to stifle the sound.<\/p>\n

John looked down at his charge.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s emerald-green eyes were open and fever-bright.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan you stifle the coughing?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s curls bounced as he nodded and then his body jerked.\u00a0 A second later he turned his face into the grass and did just that.\u00a0 Unfortunately, his coughs were growing deeper and more ragged. \u00a0He had no idea if the boy had taken a severe cold or if this was the first sign of something worse.<\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright definitely needed to be attended by a physician.<\/p>\n

Sucking in air, as well as a few tears, Joe asked, \u201cYou see…them yet?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. \u00a0\u00a0Nothing.\u00a0 No…wait.\u201d\u00a0 John scowled as he shifted aside a thick blade of grass.\u00a0 He\u2019d seen something<\/em> \u2013 a flash of a bright color where there should have been none.\u00a0 A moment later he heard the voices again \u2013 men\u2019s voices.\u00a0 Placing his hands under Joe\u2019s shoulders, he gently pulled the boy back further into the shadows and then placed a finger to his lips, signaling for him to remain silent.\u00a0 Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

He looked entirely miserable, but he nodded.<\/p>\n

Seconds later four black horses came into view.\u00a0 John sucked in air as the riders came abreast their hiding place and halted.\u00a0 For a moment he feared they had been discovered, but it quickly became clear they had stopped because the man in the lead wanted to address the others.\u00a0 As they spoke quietly, he looked from face to face.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t know any of them, but he was fairly certain he had seen the one in the lead at The Delectable Dragon<\/em>.\u00a0 He was usually in the company of a wealthy Chinese man named Khu Zhuang.<\/p>\n

John shuddered.\u00a0 Zhuang.\u00a0 Dear Lord, how he wished he had never heard that name!<\/p>\n

He felt a tug at his sleeve.\u00a0 \u2018They still there?<\/em>\u2019 Joe mouthed.<\/p>\n

John nodded and then turned back to watch the men.\u00a0 It concerned him that one of them belonged to Zhuang.\u00a0 He wondered what he was doing this far east and wished he could make out what the pair were saying.<\/p>\n

A few seconds later \u2013 to his great relief \u2013 the four parted and moved off, two each in two different directions.\u00a0 John closed his eyes and shook off some of the tension before turning to Joe Cartwright with a smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ve gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho…were they?\u201d the boy asked.<\/p>\n

There was no point in mentioning that he might have known one of them since he wasn\u2019t sure.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 They were Chinese.\u201d<\/p>\n

The look out of the boy\u2019s eyes said he wasn\u2019t fooled.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think they knew we were here?\u201d<\/p>\n

John stiffened.\u00a0 Dear God!\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t thought of that.\u00a0 What if the men had<\/em> spotted them and parted in order to enter the trees at two different places in order to surround them?<\/p>\n

Suddenly, the woods seemed a great deal more dangerous.<\/p>\n

Drawing a breath, he beat down his fear.\u00a0 It was unfounded at best.\u00a0 There was nothing to prove the men weren\u2019t simply out for a ride.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t believe they did, Joe, but one can never say \u2018never\u2019 with any surety.\u00a0 We shall have to be very careful.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe coughed and John noticed the boy\u2019s hands gripping his sides.\u00a0 \u201cFunny…about them bein\u2019 from China,\u201d he said, with a little gasp.\u00a0 \u201cMe and Hoss, when we was out working we saw two Chinese men.\u00a0 They were headed to Eagle Station.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Englishman was instantly on the alert. \u00a0More<\/em> Chinese?<\/p>\n

\u201cDid they tell you their names?\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy shook his head.\u00a0 Then he shrugged his shoulders.\u00a0 \u201cThat was funny…too.\u201d\u00a0 He coughed this time.\u00a0 \u201cThey asked our names and acted kind of funny when they heard mine.\u00a0 Like, maybe, they\u2019d heard it before.\u201d<\/p>\n

John\u2019s alertness was quickly transmuting into panic. He\u2019d just seen one man he knew to frequent The Dragon.\u00a0 <\/em>And if theses other<\/em> Chinese men knew Joe Cartwright by name….\u00a0 It might have been a coincidence.<\/p>\n

But then, he didn\u2019t believe<\/em> in coincidences.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs something…wrong?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

Oh, yes.\u00a0 Something was wrong.\u00a0 Something was, as Hamlet would have put it, \u2018rotten in Denmark\u2019.<\/p>\n

Catching the boy by the arm, he helped Joe to his feet and waited until he found his balance.<\/p>\n

Balance.\u00a0 That was a word he had heard a lot at The Dragon.<\/em>\u00a0 Ying and yang.\u00a0 Diametrically opposing forces held together in such a way that it makes the whole greater than the two parts.\u00a0 Trouble was, he\u2019d learned another thing about that kind of balance.\u00a0 Sometimes instead of enhancing the whole, it obliterated it.<\/p>\n

Leaving nothing behind.
\nSIX<\/p>\n

\u201cPa! Come here!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright\u2019s heart seized at the sound of his son\u2019s alarmed voice.\u00a0 He and Hoss had awakened and after a quick breakfast began their search, hoping against hope that they would quickly find Little Joe quickly and alive and well. \u00a0The sun was climbing toward noon and they were quite a ways down the river from where they believed Joseph went in.\u00a0 So far they had found nothing.<\/p>\n

Though, perhaps that had just changed.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!\u00a0 What have you found?\u201d he called out as he jogged toward the sound of his son\u2019s voice.\u00a0 His dread, of course, was that Hoss had found his brother\u2019s body washed up on the bank or tangled in the roots of a tree overreaching the river.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt ain\u2019t Joe, Pa,\u201d his son called, sensing his fear. \u00a0\u201cBut I think it\u2019s a sign he was here.\u201d<\/p>\n

As he broke through the tall grasses that lined the river, Ben drew to a halt.\u00a0 His heart was racing, and not from the run. \u201cWhat did you find\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Hoss rose to his feet.\u00a0 With his head, his son indicated the ground.\u00a0 Ben looked.\u00a0 It was plain to see where someone had lain not all that long ago and then been dragged away.<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly one set of footprints and they belong to a man.\u00a0 If it was Joe, someone found him and carried him away.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben stared at the long line of boot prints.\u00a0 The extra weight had made the man\u2019s heels dig deeply into the mud, and then the sun had baked them so they were there for anyone to see.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think he saved Joe or…something else?\u201d<\/p>\n

His near-black gaze went to his son.\u00a0 He knew what Hoss was thinking.\u00a0 Joe was only fifteen and small for his age.\u00a0 If he had come out of the water, he would have been weakened and vulnerable.\u00a0 There were many perils in this land he had chosen to call home from Indians to outlaws, and all the way through to the kind of men who would think nothing of kidnapping and even selling such a handsome boy as his youngest son.<\/p>\n

The older man drew a breath and let it and his anxiety out slowly.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll just have to trust to the providential hand of God, son.\u00a0 It appears He rescued your brother.\u00a0 Now we have to trust the Almighty to keep Joseph safe until we can find him and bring him home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss took off his hat and ran a hand through his thin reddish hair.\u00a0 \u201cWeren\u2019t too long ago little brother went missin\u2019 and I for sure thought he weren\u2019t never comin\u2019 back.\u201d<\/p>\n

This incident had brought it to his mind as well \u2013 the debacle with Wade Bosh.\u00a0 He still carried a burden of guilt for the fact that his son had suffered so much and nearly died at the seaman\u2019s hands, and all because Bosh carried a grudge against him after more than twenty years.<\/p>\n

Ben reached out and took hold of his middle son\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cI know.\u00a0 It\u2019s with me as well,\u201d he said softly. \u00a0\u201cBut Joseph did <\/em>come back to us that time.\u00a0 He will this time too.\u201d\u00a0 As he lifted his hand, the rancher asked, \u201cNow, are you ready to put your tracking skills to use?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMore than ready, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u00a0\u201cLet\u2019s get to it then.\u00a0 Your brother\u2019s waiting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright had an itch he couldn\u2019t scratch and it was about to drive him mad.<\/p>\n

Things had gone from bad to worse after Da Chao and his henchman had forced him into the house.\u00a0 He\u2019d had a brief moment of hope when hoof beats sounded in the yard shortly after they entered and Dan Tollivar pulled up out front.\u00a0 The Chinese tong leader had been forced to untie him and let him go out to talk to the wrangler.\u00a0 Dan told him his father and Hoss were still on the hunt for Little Joe and asked if he was all right. \u00a0Dan said Hoss had had a bad dream and been afraid for him.<\/p>\n

Apparently his middle brother had suddenly become a mind reader.<\/p>\n

Now, he didn\u2019t lie \u2013 normally \u2013 but he\u2019d told a whopper then.\u00a0 Of course, he did it because he knew Longwei had a knife against Hop Sing\u2019s throat.<\/p>\n

Adam sighed.\u00a0 It had been with a deep regret that he\u2019d sent Dan on his way.\u00a0 He watched as the older man rode off to join the cattle drive and then returned to the house \u2013 only to be shoved back into the blue chair and trussed up again. \u00a0It had been bad enough having to pass the night bound and in a chair, but by the time he woke up both his hands and arms were numb.\u00a0 After the painful pins and needles finally faded, he\u2019d been left with an itch in the middle of his back and there was absolutely nothing he could do about it. Adam\u2019s gaze flicked to Longwei, who was the only one of the invaders in the house at the moment.\u00a0 Da Chao\u2019s nephew sat martial straight on Pa\u2019s desk chair.\u00a0 Longwei had dragged it over close to the tall case clock in order to watch the door; his blade anchored on his belt and a black and silver pistol in his hand.<\/p>\n

The black-haired man\u2019s lips quirked.\u00a0 He certainly wasn\u2019t going to ask him for help!<\/p>\n

A slight groan at his side informed Adam that Hop Sing had awakened.\u00a0 Their cook was older than him, but younger than Pa.\u00a0 As consumed as he was by aching muscles and stiffness, he could only imagine how Hop Sing felt.<\/p>\n

Even more miserable, most likely.<\/p>\n

Adam cast another glance at\u00a0 Longwei and then asked, his voice pitched as low as possible, \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing\u2019s eyes opened and closed twice and then rolled over in his direction.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing would ask Mistah Adam same thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam grinned.\u00a0 \u201cYou first.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis unworthy one is…fit as a fiddle,\u201d he replied with a grimace.<\/p>\n

Looking at the ropes binding the small man, he snorted.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ve certainly got enough \u2018strings\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing was watching Longwei.\u00a0 It seemed the brutish man didn\u2019t care that they were talking.\u00a0 He was paying them no attention.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one worry that Mistah Adam\u2019s father come home soon,\u201d the man from China added.\u00a0 \u201cMaybe bring Little Joe.\u00a0 Not know danger.\u201d<\/p>\n

He was concerned about that too.\u00a0 He had to find some way to get Longwei away from the door and get that gun out of his hands \u2013 a tall order considering he was trussed up like hog heading for the hook.<\/p>\n

Adam stared at the man in the gray suit for a moment before lowering his voice and asking his friend, \u201cWhat happened to…,\u201d he indicated the settee with a nod, \u201c…you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUse Little Joe\u2019s staircase,\u201d the man from China answered cryptically.<\/p>\n

That<\/em> brought a scowl.\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s staircase.\u00a0 \u2018Little Joe\u2019s\u2019…staircase…?\u00a0 Now what could Hop Sing mean by….\u00a0 Adam gasped.\u00a0 His eyes went wide.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 Really?\u00a0 <\/em>In her condition?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cThe remedy for dirt is soap and water. The remedy for dying is living,\u201d Hop Sing said quietly.<\/p>\n

In other words, the expectant Biyu hadn\u2019t cared if the trip out of Joe\u2019s window, the journey over the roof, or the drop to the ground killed her. \u00a0It would be better to die than to be taken by Longwei. \u00a0It was hard for him \u2013 not only as the son of a wealthy man, but simply as a human being \u2013 to imagine a life where your only worth came from selling your body to bring a physical release to selfish, self-absorbed men.\u00a0 He\u2019d known a few ladies of the evening in his life.\u00a0 He\u2019d even struck up friendships with one or two.\u00a0 He chose not to use them.\u00a0 His father had taught him and his brothers to respect women and such a selfish act was simply out of the question. \u00a0Meeting Biyu and Dandan \u2013 and getting to know Ming-hua \u2013 had only confirmed that decision.\u00a0 The sad women who were forced into prostitution were human beings as well and were of value and needed to be afforded some dignity.<\/p>\n

Adam nodded, showing their cook he understood.\u00a0 So, Biyu and Dandan\u2019s fate was out of his hands for the moment.\u00a0 He guessed that Hop Sing had sent them somewhere safe \u2013 perhaps to one of the outlying line shacks, or maybe to someone in the town.\u00a0 He was glad he didn\u2019t know.<\/p>\n

That way, if he was tortured, he couldn\u2019t tell.<\/p>\n

A click alerted him to the fact that the front door had opened.\u00a0 A moment later Da Chao walked in.\u00a0 Longwei rose out of respect.\u00a0 The tong leader exchanged a few words with him and then sent the younger man outside.\u00a0 Then he advanced toward them.<\/p>\n

The words he spoke were chilling.<\/p>\n

\u201cHonorable Adam Cartwright did not say company was expected this morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam swallowed over the lump in his throat.\u00a0 \u201cI didn\u2019t know there was.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen the unworthy one in your barn does not speak the truth.\u201d\u00a0 He turned toward the door.\u00a0 \u201cLongwei will silence his lies.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 No!\u00a0 Please,\u201d Adam pleaded, fearing for his father and brothers and just about everyone else in the territory of Nevada.\u00a0 \u201cAnyone could have come out to visit without an invitation.\u00a0 Tell me his name.\u00a0 I\u2019ll know better then.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s gaze was measured.\u00a0 \u201cJennings.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dear Lord!\u00a0 He\u2019d forgotten all about Tory. \u00a0She\u2019d been with the two Chinese woman \u2013 had she escaped<\/em> with them as well?<\/p>\n

\u201cI do know him.\u00a0 His name is Richard Jennings,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cMy little brother\u2019s sweet on his daughter, Tory.\u00a0 He probably came out to talk to Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJennings does not approve of your young brother as a suitor for his child?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam thought furiously.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t admit Tory had been at the house.\u00a0 That knowledge might somehow lead to the fact that Biyu and Dandan had been too.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 No, he doesn\u2019t,\u201d he lied.\u00a0 \u201cJoe can be, well, hot-tempered.\u00a0 He has a tendency to leap before he looks and speak without thinking.\u00a0 He and Mister Jennings might have gotten into it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf all the animals, the boy is the most unmanageable,\u201d Da Chao replied.\u00a0 \u201cA father\u2019s hand must be like a fist.\u00a0 If the boy is strong, he will survive.\u00a0 If he is weak, he will be crushed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2018 I am so glad I am not your son\u2019<\/em>, Adam thought to himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cTiger father begets tiger son,\u201d Hop Sing said.\u00a0 \u201cMistah Cartwright return home, he use fist to crush you!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Chao nodded.\u00a0 \u201cThis one believes honorable countryman speaks the truth.\u00a0 But Benjamin Cartwright is also tiger mother.\u00a0 Tiger mother will give all to save her sons \u2013 even her own life.\u201d<\/p>\n

The threat was veiled, but it was there.\u00a0 Da Chao meant to use him to control his father.<\/p>\n

He had to get away!<\/p>\n

Without warning, the door opened and Longwei stepped in.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does Jennings say?\u201d Da Chao asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cHis daughter is here.\u00a0 He came to take her home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam drew a breath as two pair of black eyes fastened on him.\u00a0 \u201cWhere is this girl?\u201d Da Chao demanded.<\/p>\n

He thought furiously.\u00a0 \u201cOne of our hands took Tory to town last night. \u00a0She and her father must have crossed paths without seeing each other in the dark.\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader\u2019s eyes narrowed.\u00a0 \u201cThis is not the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it is.\u00a0 Why would I lie to you?\u201d\u00a0 Adam shifted so his bound hands showed to the side.\u00a0 \u201cYou can do anything to me that you wish!\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader moved in and leaned down so his eyes were on a level with his own.\u00a0\u00a0 An unpleasant smile caused his thin lips to twitch.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet it be as you say.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They\u2019d followed the tracks of the man back to an abandoned campsite.\u00a0 Hoss found evidence that whoever it was had taken shelter from the storm beneath a rocky outcropping where someone \u2013 most likely Joseph \u2013 had lain on the ground.\u00a0 The size and shape of the impression were too small and slender for a man.\u00a0 Joe and his \u2013 savior, abductor? \u2013 had remained there for some time and then moved off to a second camp.\u00a0 They\u2019d looked it over as well and found signs of a horse tethered nearby.<\/p>\n

Hoss was crouched down now, looking at the animal\u2019s tracks.<\/p>\n

\u201cSee there, Pa.\u00a0 The horse gets right heavy.\u00a0 I\u2019m bettin\u2019 that man put little brother on it and got up behind him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben nodded, troubled.\u00a0 There was still no way to know if the man meant to rescue Joseph or if his son had been taken captive. \u00a0He looked at the item he held in his hand \u2013 a ruined watercolor painting \u2013 and took some solace from it.\u00a0 If the man who took Little Joe was an artist, well, that weighed heavily on the side of rescue.\u00a0 He doubted any man who had come to the west to paint its magnificent scenery and people would harbor ill will toward a child or have any reason to kidnap him.<\/p>\n

Unless, of course, he knew who Joseph was and needed money.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think we can catch them up pretty fast now, Pa,\u201d Hoss said as he rose to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cTwo men on one horse are gonna be slower goin\u2019 than you and me with one man per.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked at his hand.\u00a0 It was quivering.\u00a0 He released the painting and let it fall to the ground.\u00a0 They were so close and yet so far.\u00a0 Was Joseph hurt?\u00a0 Was he ill?\u00a0 A ride down the river was a dangerous thing.\u00a0 It carried with it all kinds of threats from infection to cuts and bruises, and possibly swallowing foul water.\u00a0 Joseph\u2019s lungs were still weak from his illness a few weeks back. There could be the threat of pneumonia.\u00a0 The rancher\u2019s gaze returned to the ruined piece of art.\u00a0 And just who was<\/em> this man \u2013 this artist?\u00a0 Why was he here?\u00a0 Had he been coming to the Ponderosa, or was he headed to Eagle Station?\u00a0 How did he find Joseph, and how long had his son been in the water when<\/em> he found him?<\/p>\n

So many questions….<\/p>\n

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

Ben shook himself and favored his middle boy with a chagrinned smile.\u00a0 \u201cSo many questions and no answers,\u201d he said aloud.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we ain\u2019t gonna find none here, Pa.\u00a0 Come on.\u00a0 Little brother\u2019s waitin\u2019 for us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was right.\u00a0 It amazed him how, at times, a grave need for action froze a man so he could do anything but <\/em>act.<\/p>\n

Within minutes, they were on their way.\u00a0 Hoss took the lead.\u00a0 Leaning to one side in the saddle, his son kept an eye on the deep hoof prints that were, surprisingly, leading them toward home.\u00a0 As they came to a place on the road with a stand of thick, tall grass beside it, his son stopped.<\/p>\n

\u201cMore horses, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked.\u00a0 Sure enough there was the deep set of prints \u2013 with four other sets on top of it.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone\u2019s followin\u2019 them,\u201d his son said, his voice heavy with worry.<\/p>\n

\u201cThem? \u00a0Or maybe just the man?\u201d he suggested.<\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cThe only way to know for sure is to find them.\u00a0 I think we should get down off the horses and search for a while on foot, Pa.\u00a0 The man who has Little Joe got off here.\u00a0 See, them other prints goes on a ways.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo maybe \u2013 whoever their pursuers are \u2013 perhaps they missed the fact that this man and Joseph didn\u2019t continue on.\u201d\u00a0 Ben breathed a sigh of relief.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Pa.\u00a0 But I\u2019m thinkin\u2019 \u2013 if they didn\u2019t \u2013 then Little Joe and that other feller might be in a heap of trouble.\u00a0 Them ain\u2019t good odds \u2013 four to two, and one of the two ailin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben walked the road a bit.\u00a0 \u201cSon, two of the horses veered off here and headed north. The other two seem to be headed toward the settlement.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCirclin\u2019 back.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss turned to look into the woods.\u00a0 \u201cPa, I got me a real<\/em> bad feelin\u2019 about this.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher undid his holster clasp and drew his gun from its tooled leather housing. \u00a0It seemed, unbeknownst to him, some evil had come to the Ponderosa and now it threatened his son.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Hoss.\u00a0 They can\u2019t be too far ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wasn\u2019t sure he had a word for how he felt \u2013 \u2018miserable\u2019 just didn\u2019t cut it.\u00a0 Pa might of said \u2018wretched\u2019.\u00a0 Big brother Adam would have used one of those ten dollar words he had, like \u2018disconsolate\u2019, and Hoss?\u00a0 Good ol\u2019 Hoss would have told him he was \u2018downhearted\u2019.<\/p>\n

And what would he<\/em> say?\u00a0 Well, the closest Joe could come was just plain awful.<\/p>\n

His head was throbbing in tune with his heart, which was pounding like the hooves of a string of wild mustangs.\u00a0 Every muscle he had ached, especially the ones in his right leg, which was injured.\u00a0 He had a fever too \u2013 not a high one, but it wasn\u2019t exactly low either.\u00a0 Worst of all, he was coughing more and it tore at his sides to throttle it.<\/p>\n

\u2018Course, that was better than bein\u2019 throttled himself.<\/p>\n

Joe shifted so he could look at the figure lying about twenty feet from him, prone on the ground.\u00a0 It was John Randolph, the man who\u2019d rescued him from the river.\u00a0 They\u2019d been traveling together on the Englishman\u2019s horse when suddenly the feller stiffened and listed to one side.\u00a0 As his foot came out of the stirrup, Randolph\u2019s weight took them both over the off side and they hit the hard packed earth dangerously close to the startled horse.\u00a0 He\u2019d tried to roll out of the way, but hadn\u2019t quite made it.\u00a0 One of the horse\u2019s hooves came down on his leg.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t break it, which was lucky, but he\u2019d been left with a pretty deep gash.\u00a0 Joe glanced at John Randolph again.\u00a0 The Englishman looked worse.\u00a0 He was pretty torn up \u2013 some from the fall, but more from the treatment he\u2019d gotten at the hands of the two Chinese men who had come out of nowhere.\u00a0 They\u2019d talked to John first and then struck out with their hands and feet so fast Randolph hadn\u2019t even had time to cry out.\u00a0 John had fallen to his knees and then dropped face first to the ground and laid there, just like he was laying there now.<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed over a growing fear.\u00a0 At first it seemed he\u2019d been forgotten and he\u2019d taken advantage of it, dragging himself back into the shadows where he thought he might hide.\u00a0 Then the men in black had turned away from his rescuer to look for him.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d just found him.<\/p>\n

At fifteen, he kept tellin\u2019 his family he was a man and they needed to stop babying him and start treating him like one.\u00a0 He was tryin\u2019 to act like a man now, but the truth was, he was scared as a little boy and all he wanted at this moment \u2013 all<\/em> he wanted in the world \u2013 was for his pa to come bustin\u2019 through the underbrush with guns blazing and take out these men.<\/p>\n

Please<\/em>, Pa, he thought.\u00a0 Come now. <\/em><\/p>\n

Like black shadows from the terrifying ghost stories brother Adam told around the campfire, the men advanced toward him.\u00a0 They were talking in Chinese.\u00a0 Joe was sure they thought he couldn\u2019t understand them.<\/p>\n

They didn\u2019t know about Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

He couldn\u2019t get all the words \u2018cause they were speakin\u2019 in low tones, but he caught a few.\u00a0 \u2018Payment<\/em>\u2019 was one of them.\u00a0 \u2018Father<\/em>\u2019 and \u2018boy<\/em>.\u2019\u00a0 But those weren\u2019t the ones that made him want to wet himself like a little kid.<\/p>\n

Those were \u2018pain<\/em>\u2019 and \u2018dead<\/em>\u2019.<\/p>\n

A groan from John Randolph drew Joe\u2019s attention back to his rescuer.\u00a0 The Englishman raised his head slightly to look at him before falling back to the earth with a sigh. \u00a0Joe winced and then gasped as one of the Chinese thugs unexpectedly grabbed the collar of his shirt and hauled him roughly to his feet. \u00a0The movement jolted his injured leg and sent pain right through him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will come with us!\u201d the man ordered, brandishing a curved knife.<\/p>\n

Joe dug his feet in.\u00a0 His eyes on the knife, he declared, \u201cI ain\u2019t…cough<\/em>…goin\u2019 nowhere with…you!\u201d\u00a0 He drew in air, trying to silence the hacking, and then choked out, \u201cYou just wait…\u2019til my Pa gets…cough<\/em>…hold of you!\u201d<\/p>\n

Dang it!<\/p>\n

This time he heard the Chinese word \u2018leng<\/em>\u2019.\u00a0 That meant \u2018little boy\u2019.\u00a0 Hop Sing used it sometimes \u2013 mostly when he was mad at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy no fight.\u00a0 Come, leng<\/em>, or you die here,\u201d the man holding him threatened.<\/p>\n

Joe knew it was stupid, but there was this…thing…<\/em>inside him that didn\u2019t like bein\u2019 pushed around.\u00a0 \u201cYou ain\u2019t gonna kill me!\u00a0 You just…cough<\/em>…told me you need me!\u201d he snapped.<\/p>\n

The older of the pair\u2019s eyebrows shot upward and he laughed.\u00a0 \u201cArrogant puppy!\u00a0 Is it not true your father has three <\/em>sons?\u201d<\/p>\n

That \u2018thing\u2019 liked it even less when someone threatened his family.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou leave Adam and Hoss alone!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis we will do if you come with us quietly, leng<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

He was shivering down to his boots.\u00a0 \u201cWhere are you…gonna take me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTo Ku Zhuang,\u201d the older man said<\/p>\n

Joe wondered if that was a place or a person.\u00a0 After all, Wade Bosh had tried to take him to another country.\u00a0 Still, if they wanted money from his pa, his best guess was that it was a name.<\/p>\n

Forcing his aching body into a straight posture, Joe lifted his chin and laid out his terms.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go with you if \u2013 if <\/em>\u2013 you promise to leave my brothers be.\u201d\u00a0 He swallowed over a rising cough. After all, the joke would be on them. Taking him prisoner probably wouldn\u2019t do them any good anyhow.\u00a0 The way he felt, he\u2019d probably be dead before they could use him to threaten his pa.\u00a0 \u201cOur cook\u2019s from China and I know your people.\u00a0 I know you don\u2019t make promises and break them.\u00a0 It wouldn\u2019t be honorable.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two men exchanged what he could only call an \u2018amused\u2019 look.<\/p>\n

\u201cTiger father begets tiger son,\u201d the older remarked.<\/p>\n

The younger snorted.\u00a0 \u201cA tiger cannot beat a crowd of monkeys.\u201d<\/p>\n

The elder of the two placed his knife behind his belt as he approached him.\u00a0 \u201cSo far as it is in Jian\u2019s power, I promise that your family will remain safe, young tiger cub.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe was exhausted.\u00a0 It took about everything that was in him to nod.\u00a0 \u201cThanks,\u201d he muttered as he felt his knees turn to jelly.<\/p>\n

Jian caught him before he could hit the ground and lifted him in his powerful arms. \u00a0Joe heard the man say something to his partner, and then all sight and sound faded way to nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think, Pa?\u00a0 Can we take \u2018em?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben was having a hard time focusing.\u00a0 His head rang with his youngest son\u2019s defiant shout.<\/p>\n

\u2018You leave Hoss and Adam alone!\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

They\u2019d been a little distance off, but there had been no question that the voice they\u2019d heard was Joseph\u2019s.\u00a0 After exchanging a quick concerned look, he and his middle son had tethered their horses and begun to work their way through the trees toward the one they loved.<\/p>\n

The sight that greeted them when they reached the edge of the clearing was terrifying to say the least.\u00a0 Two powerful looking Chinese men, clothed from head to foot in black, held his son captive.\u00a0 The men\u2019s wide waist-belts were heavily laden with weapons, including pistols and knives.\u00a0 One had Joseph by the arm.\u00a0 The other approached, weapon in hand.\u00a0 The oldest of the two men was speaking to his son, but the pounding of his heart in his ears kept Ben from hearing anything they said.<\/p>\n

Then, Joseph collapsed.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 strong grip was the only thing that held him back.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa.\u00a0 You know we cain\u2019t go rushin\u2019 in.\u00a0 Those bad men are liable to hurt Joe!\u201d Hoss warned in\u00a0 a tense whisper even as the men in question disappeared into the trees, taking Joseph with them.\u00a0 The big man scanned the area before them and then nodded. \u00a0\u201cCome on, Pa, let\u2019s go!\u201d<\/p>\n

They had advanced only a few feet when they spied a body in the grass.\u00a0 Begrudging the time it took, the rancher halted and waited by his son as Hoss bent to check for a pulse.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s alive, Pa.\u00a0 Who do you suppose he is?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs he badly hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss checked.\u00a0 \u201cI cain\u2019t say for sure, Pa.\u00a0 He\u2019s got a knife wound in the back up near the shoulder.\u00a0 It ain\u2019t bleedin\u2019 no more.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben hesitated, unsure of what to say or do.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou go ahead, Pa,\u201d Hoss said, though it cost him something. \u201cYou go on and get Little Joe.\u00a0 I\u2019ll help this here feller as much as I can.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man nodded his head in thanks and then ran recklessly into the trees.\u00a0 Ben wanted to shout his son\u2019s name, to let Joe know he was near, but he knew he didn\u2019t dare.\u00a0 There was no way of knowing what reaction the two men would have.\u00a0 They might release his son and run, or they could slit his throat.\u00a0 Remembering the tong members he had met in San Francisco as a young sailor, he knew the latter was the most likely outcome.\u00a0 As he ran, the rancher wondered what these men were doing on his land and why they would target his boy.\u00a0 Ransom was the most likely explanation.\u00a0 And yet, how could they know Joseph would be out here alone, in the wilderness, and not at home?\u00a0 The only answer was that they had come here looking for him \u2013 or for a<\/em> Cartwright \u2013 in order to put their own nefarious plans into action.<\/p>\n

Ben halted when he heard a horse snort and strike the earth with its hoof in impatience.\u00a0 He moved cautiously forward until he was at the edge of another clearing.\u00a0 Parting the grasses that masked it, he \u00a0discovered the two men. \u00a0His heart sank when he failed to see his son, but then he found him.\u00a0 Joseph was laying on the ground near the remnants of a fire.\u00a0 The two men were arguing. Ben watched them for a moment and then began to inch his way around the clearing toward his child.\u00a0 As he moved, his eyes remained locked on Joseph who, so far, hadn\u2019t moved.<\/p>\n

The pitiful sight of his son tossed aside as if he were an unwanted rag doll pierced his heart.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Joseph,\u201d he whispered between clenched teeth.\u00a0 \u201cWake up for Papa.\u00a0 Show him you\u2019re alive.\u201d<\/p>\n

Still<\/em> nothing.<\/p>\n

As Ben came to a stop in the trees just behind his boy a shout went up, drawing his attention back to the two men.\u00a0 One was staggering back.\u00a0 For a moment he didn\u2019t understand why \u2013 then he saw the thin trail of blood on the exposed skin at the base of the man\u2019s neck.\u00a0 Sensing that this might be his chance, Ben parted the leaves before him and stepped out, gun in hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t move!\u201d he shouted.\u00a0 \u201cI promise you I will shoot!\u201d<\/p>\n

The older of the pair turned toward him.\u00a0 In his hand was a curved blade dotted with blood.\u00a0 Ben sensed more than saw that the sharp blade was about to come his way and ducked for cover.\u00a0 A second later the knife sliced into a nearby tree trunk at head level with a deadly \u2018thwapp!<\/em>.<\/p>\n

By the time he regained his feet, the man was gone.\u00a0 Stunned, Ben remained where he was for several heartbeats.\u00a0 Then his gaze fell on the crumpled heap of boy by the fire.<\/p>\n

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

The rancher\u2019s long strides took him to his son in seconds.\u00a0 Dropping to the ground, Ben reached out to touch Little Joe\u2019s exposed chest. \u00a0Two things happened as he did.\u00a0 He sighed with relief as he felt the steady pulse of his son\u2019s heart and then, retracted his hand almost immediately.\u00a0 The intense heat radiating from the boy startled him.\u00a0 It was only when he took in the state of both his son and his clothing that he understood.\u00a0 Joseph\u2019s skin was covered with a sheen of perspiration.\u00a0 It was pale, even though his cheeks were bright as polished apples.\u00a0 His son\u2019s breath came hard; each ragged breath drawn in pain and rattling deep in his chest.\u00a0 His lustrous brown hair was filthy and matted with dirt and debris, most of which had probably come from his trip down the river.\u00a0 His clothing was filthy as well, but worse than that there was a rent in the right leg and beneath it, a bright red stain spreading across his right shin.\u00a0 Carefully, Ben pried the fouled cloth back, only to discover an angry slash in Little Joe\u2019s leg.<\/p>\n

The rancher reached for the sodden curls on his son\u2019s forehead and gently shoved them to one side.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph, when you set out to do a thing, you certainly do it all the way,\u201d he said with a sigh.<\/p>\n

At the sound of his voice, the boy stirred. \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s long dark lashes fluttered and his emerald eyes opened.\u00a0 At first they were without focus, then they found him and a slight smile curled the boy\u2019s full lips.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s hand reached out.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa…?\u201d<\/p>\n

He caught the hand and clasp his son\u2019s fingers tightly.\u00a0 \u201cYes, son.\u00a0 Your pa\u2019s here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe was still a moment and then he shuddered.\u00a0 A moment later the tears began to flow.\u00a0 \u201cOh, pa…\u00a0 I was so scared.\u201d\u00a0 He paused a moment to draw in air and then asked in a strangled whisper, \u201cAre Adam and Hoss…all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam was fine when I left him and \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t got no reason to worry about me, short-shanks.\u00a0 It\u2019s you<\/em> looks wrung out as a day old dish rag.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe winced as he turned his head.\u00a0 When he saw his brother the boy brightened visibly, partly at the sight of Hoss and, it seemed, even more at the sight of the pale stranger hanging off of his middle son\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

\u201cJohn!\u201d Joe exclaimed and then, suddenly, was taken with a fit of coughing that shook his young body to the core and left him gasping for air.<\/p>\n

\u201cEasy, son,\u201d Ben said, drawing the boy to him and holding him tightly against his chest.\u00a0 As he did, the rancher\u2019s eyes sought his other son. \u00a0He knew Hoss would read the unspoken words in his gaze.<\/p>\n

They needed to get Joseph home and they needed to do it now<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Hoss sat the wounded man down on a rock before approaching them.\u00a0 \u201cThat there is John Randolph, Pa.\u00a0 He done fished Little Joe out of the river and was bringin\u2019 him home to us when them two Chinese men bushwhacked them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere were…four of them originally,\u201d John said.\u00a0 He paused a moment to gather strength and then went on.\u00a0 \u201cTwo split off and headed for the settlement.\u201d\u00a0 The stranger paused again, this time to adjust his arm, which hung in a makeshift sling.\u00a0 \u201cI thought we\u2019d escaped and then a knife came out of nowhere and took me in the shoulder.\u00a0 We both fell.\u201d\u00a0 John\u2019s gaze went to Joseph.\u00a0 \u201cI pray the boy was not injured further.\u00a0 He\u2019s been quite ill.\u00a0 The result of being in the water so long, I\u2019m afraid.\u00a0 I tried my best to keep him warm and well.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at his son and then turned back to the man.\u00a0 \u201cThank you,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

John dipped his head.\u00a0 \u201cI only wish I could have done more.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJohn here\u2019s an Englishman, Pa,\u201d Hoss said as he knelt at his side and reached out for his baby brother, who had fallen silent after the coughing fit ended.<\/p>\n

Ben couldn\u2019t help but smile.\u00a0 \u201cI noticed.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was something more.\u00a0 It was in Hoss\u2019 gaze.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s English<\/em>, Pa.\u00a0 And his name is Randolph<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher\u2019s dark eyes flicked to the foreigner. \u201cJude?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

John nodded.\u00a0 \u201cMy brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked at the unconscious boy in his arms.<\/p>\n

So, for the second time, a Randolph had saved his son\u2019s life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SEVEN<\/p>\n

Adam frowned as Richard Jennings was unceremoniously thrust to the floor.\u00a0 The older man had been abused.\u00a0 His face was bleeding and it was obvious he was in pain.\u00a0 No doubt there were other bruises that were unseen.\u00a0 The Jennings were society people.\u00a0 They\u2019d come from the East and were unused to the harsh brutality of the West.\u00a0 Along with pain there was fear in the man\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 Most likely \u2013 knowing fathers \u2013 it was for his impish daughter more than him.<\/p>\n

The black-haired man sucked in a breath and held it a second before expelling it slowly.\u00a0 What happened in the next few seconds would go a long way toward whether or not they all came out of this alive.<\/p>\n

Adam took the initiative, even though he knew it would cost him.<\/p>\n

\u201cRichard.\u00a0 I\u2019m so sorry Tory isn\u2019t here.\u00a0 That man of yours….Jenkins?\u00a0 He came to claim her \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

The crack of a hand against his cheek was louder than the chimes of the tall case clock that chose that precise moment to strike.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will keep silent!\u201d Longwei ordered.<\/p>\n

He would now.\u00a0 He\u2019d said what he had to.\u00a0 It was up to Richard to figure it out.<\/p>\n

Jennings\u2019 gaze was flying around the room.\u00a0 He took in the two Chinese men and their threat, and then noted Hop Sing tied in the chair by the fire.\u00a0 With any luck Richard saw their cook mouth, \u2018go along\u2019<\/em> as he did, before he turned to him.\u00a0 Adam pursed his lips as their eyes met and waited.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat girl of mine,\u201d Richard said with a sigh, \u201cI can\u2019t count on her to do anything I tell her.\u00a0 You\u2019d think with your little brother here, you couldn\u2019t have pried Tory away.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a bit of real exasperation in his tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe\u2019s not here, Richard,\u201d Adam ventured, waiting on another backhand.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s missing.\u00a0 Pa and Hoss are out looking for him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMissing?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is enough!\u201d Da Chao declared.\u00a0 The tong leader went to stand before Tory\u2019s father.\u00a0 \u201cDo you know of any other women in this house?\u00a0 Chinese women?\u201d<\/p>\n

Richard looked genuinely confused.\u00a0 \u201cOnly Ming-hua.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDandan and Biyu were headed here. This we know,\u201d Chao said.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you know?\u201d Adam spit out, and then added before the hand could strike him again, \u201cIf you don\u2019t mind my asking.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTheir plans were made known to us by Xiofan, whose place is also in The Dragon<\/em>.\u201d\u00a0 The Chinese man paused.\u00a0 \u201cShe has been richly rewarded for her loyalty.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cXiofan?\u201d a light voice asked.<\/p>\n

Adam pivoted in the chair to find Ming-hua standing in the room, tray in hand.\u00a0 Upon the tray were two bowls of soup and two plates laden with food.<\/p>\n

Da Chao walked over to her.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u00a0 Xiofan.\u00a0 One whose desire is not to leave Da Chao.\u00a0 Unlike Ming-hua and her sisters.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ming-hua held her chin high.\u00a0 \u201cMister Cartwright purchased Ming-hua\u2019s freedom.\u00a0 Da Chao owns me no longer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, but I do,\u201d Chao said.\u00a0 \u201cI own Ming-hua\u2019s sisters.\u00a0 Therefore, I own you<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

The girl\u2019s hands shook as she showed him the tray.\u00a0 \u201cI bring sandwiches for Longwei and honorable Da Chao as ordered, and soup for Mister Adam and honorable Hop Sing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s eyes flicked to him and then went to Hop Sing before returning to Ming-hua.\u00a0 \u201cYou will not untie them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one understands,\u201d she replied.\u00a0 \u201cIf the honorable Da Chao permit its, Ming-hua will feed both.\u00a0 It has been many hours since they have eaten.\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader considered it and then nodded.\u00a0 With that, he turned back to Richard Jennings who had been watching the proceedings with interest. Thank God the man had caught on quickly!\u00a0 Jennings had to be worried sick about his daughter.\u00a0 Unfortunately, there was nothing he<\/em> could do under the circumstances to bring the older man any relief.<\/p>\n

Adam smiled at Ming-hua as she approached him bowl in hand.\u00a0 \u201cThat smells good.\u201d<\/p>\n

She returned the smile as she sat beside him and dipped a spoon in the thick soup.\u00a0 \u201cChicken with dumpling,\u201d she said as she lifted it to his lips.<\/p>\n

While he hated being spoon-fed, the black-haired man knew it was important to keep up his strength. Something had to come along soon \u2013 some opportunity to escape.\u00a0 Bound and trussed as he was, he was no good to this girl, Hop Sing, or to his father and brothers who might return any minute and walk through the front door straight into a trap.<\/p>\n

Ming-hua offered him another spoonful.\u00a0 As he took it, Adam saw her glance toward Da Chao. He was questioning Richard Jennings again.\u00a0 Longwei was watching their interaction intently and not looking their way.\u00a0 The dark-eyed girl watched them for a moment and then caught the napkin from the tray and \u00a0reached out to dab the corner of his lips on the right side.\u00a0 As she did, something fell from the napkin into the crease in the chair.\u00a0 Adam shifted a bit so he could see what it was.<\/p>\n

A knife!<\/p>\n

\u201cEat quickly, Mister Adam,\u201d Ming-hua said.\u00a0 \u201cHonorable Hop Sing hungry too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam nodded.\u00a0 Yes, of course, Hop Sing was hungry.<\/p>\n

As hungry for escape<\/em> as he was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u00a0 Little Joe.\u00a0 Hey, punkin, why don\u2019t you open your eyes and look at me? \u00a0I\u2019d sure feel a sight better if you did.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was calling him.\u00a0 Joe felt the touch of his brother\u2019s cool fingers on his cheek and heard the concern in his voice, but, plain and simple, he didn\u2019t have the energy to respond.\u00a0 Still, he had to try.\u00a0 Hoss sounded like he was near to tears and he didn\u2019t want the big galoot dowsing him with water again.\u00a0 He\u2019d had enough water to last a lifetime!<\/p>\n

Gathering what little strength he had, Joe worked his lips to open them.\u00a0 \u201cHoss….\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother blew out his relief.\u00a0 \u201cYeah, short-shanks it\u2019s me.\u00a0 You dang near scared me to death, you been so quiet for so long.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe felt a cough roll up in his chest, seeking to escape.\u00a0 He managed to hold it captive.<\/p>\n

Just.<\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t you and brother Adam…always tellin\u2019 me to keep quiet?\u201d<\/p>\n

He heard his brother snort.\u00a0 \u201cI ain\u2019t never gonna say that again, Little Joe.\u00a0 I done promise you that!\u201d<\/p>\n

Promise.<\/p>\n

Someone had made him a promise.\u00a0 About his brothers.<\/p>\n

About them bein\u2019 safe.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you…okay, Hoss?\u201d Joe asked as he fought a battle with his eyes.\u00a0 They wanted to close.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure am.\u00a0 Pa\u2019s fine too.\u00a0 He\u2019s over talking to John.\u201d<\/p>\n

That took a moment.\u00a0 \u201cJohn.\u00a0 He…\u201d\u00a0 Joe sucked in a breath again, still fighting that cough.\u00a0 \u201cSaved me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was silent a moment.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe, I sure am sorry for what happened \u2013 for Butch hittin\u2019 you and tossin\u2019 you in the river like you weren\u2019t nothin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s hand found his brother\u2019s shirt and twisted the fabric.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s not your fault.\u00a0 I…could of walked away.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom Butch?\u00a0 That ain\u2019t likely.\u00a0 That boy\u2019s gonna end up in prison one day.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss actually growled.\u00a0 \u201cMaybe one day soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c…Tory?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cStill thinkin\u2019 of girls, eh?\u201d middle brother chuckled.\u00a0 \u201cShe\u2019s fine.\u00a0 She\u2019s at the house.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe twisted a bit to look at their father.\u00a0 His pa was kneeling on the ground, turning over one of the Chinese men who had attacked them.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe ain\u2019t sure.\u00a0 That there China man lived for a bit, though we ain\u2019t sure how.\u00a0 That knife got him good.\u00a0 He said Zhuang was comin\u2019 and we\u2019d best be ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReady for…what?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t sure.\u00a0 He up and died afore we could ask him anythin\u2019 else.\u201d<\/p>\n

More awake now, Joe drew in a breath and signaled to his brother to help him sit up.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure you wanna do that, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded.\u00a0 Hoss hesitated and then caught him under the arms and lifted him up.\u00a0 Then the big man slipped in behind him and propped him against his body.\u00a0 As he lay back against his brother\u2019s massive form a calm descended on Joe and he thanked God for the love he and his father and brothers had for one another. \u00a0Hoss\u2019 arm circled his waist and he knew his older brother was thinkin\u2019 the same thing.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure are hot, Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was funny.\u00a0 He felt cold. \u00a0\u201cI got a fever.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure enough do.\u00a0 You\u2019re hot enough, little brother, to fry griddle cakes on.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe giggled and then, in spite of his efforts, erupted into a coughing fit.\u00a0 He coughed until he was heaving \u2013 his brother holding him all the time, one arm wrapped around his waist and the other holding his head.\u00a0 When he was done, the exhausted boy sank back again against his giant of a brother.\u00a0 Tears streaked Joe\u2019s face and it was only when he heard his name being called that he found the strength to look up.<\/p>\n

It was Pa.<\/p>\n

His father\u2019s worried gaze went past him to his brother.\u00a0 \u201cHoss, will you go and see to it that man is buried?\u00a0 We can\u2019t leave him for he animals to find.\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother nodded.\u00a0 \u201cHow\u2019s John?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSleeping.\u201d\u00a0 Pa paused as his eyes shifted from Hoss to him.\u00a0 \u201cAs you<\/em> should be, young man.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just…want to go home…Pa,\u201d he managed without coughing.<\/p>\n

His father placed a hand on his forehead.\u00a0 The older man wasn\u2019t quick enough to hide his fear.<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed over his own.\u00a0 \u201cAm I gonna die?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAw, shucks, short-shanks. Don\u2019t you go sayin\u2019 such things.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, here.\u00a0 Hand him over to me,\u201d his pa said.\u00a0 Joe was tilted forward as his big brother relinquished his place and Pa took it.\u00a0 Once the older man was seated, he drew him in close.\u00a0 For a moment Pa said nothing and then, as Hoss moved away, began to speak.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph, do you remember when you had the measles?\u00a0 You were just a little boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe frowned.\u00a0 He did, kind of.\u00a0 He\u2019d been five, maybe six, and real sick \u2013 so<\/em> sick the doctor wasn\u2019t sure he\u2019d make it.\u00a0 For days he\u2019d been out of his head, raving about all kinds of things, but mostly callin\u2019 for his mama.<\/p>\n

\u201cA little,\u201d he admitted.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were so ill.\u00a0 I was afraid you would die.\u00a0 You kept calling for your mother and I couldn\u2019t bring her to you.\u00a0 I felt…hopeless.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot…your fault,\u201d he managed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t.\u00a0 But, since your mother\u2019s death, well, it was the first time I <\/em>wasn\u2019t enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

His father squeezed his arm.\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t be.\u00a0 You know how I\u2019ve told you that troubles are sent to us by the Almighty?\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t really understand it, but he remembered.\u00a0 Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI sat at your bedside and wrestled with the Lord just as surely as Jacob did.\u00a0 It was so soon after your mother died, I couldn\u2019t bear the thought that you would too. \u00a0I fought harder than I have ever fought, demanding God see things my<\/em> way.\u00a0 \u2018My will\u2019, I shouted, \u2018not thine!\u2019 \u201d\u00a0 His pa halted to take a breath.\u00a0 \u201cAnd you only grew sicker.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe said nothing, but waited.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn the end, I fell to my knees beside your bed and whispered the words our Lord did when He was facing the cross.\u00a0 \u2018Thy will, not mine.\u2019\u00a0 Shortly after that your fever broke and you began to get better.\u201d\u00a0 Joe felt his pa\u2019s hand on his cheek.\u00a0 \u201cSince then, I have surrendered my sons to the Lord, and daily ask Him to preserve you.\u00a0 I believe He will, son.\u00a0 I don\u2019t believe today is your day to die.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe gripped his father\u2019s fingers and pressed them to his heart.\u00a0 \u201cHow come we…have to suffer, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause our Lord suffered.\u00a0 And because God loves us.\u00a0 If life went according to our own wishes every moment of every day, evil would befall us.\u00a0 You may be a child in my eyes, Joseph, but in our Lord\u2019s eyes we are all<\/em> children.\u00a0 No matter how much we think we do, we don\u2019t<\/em> know what is best.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe puzzled that over for a moment. Then he said, simple as a child.\u00a0 \u201cMama died.\u201d<\/p>\n

His father stiffened.\u00a0 \u201cYes, and God alone knows why.\u00a0 Maybe to make you the man you will be \u2013 the man you would not have been had your mother lived.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe blinked and yawned.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ll have to figure…it out for me, Pa.\u00a0 I\u2019m…too tired.\u201d<\/p>\n

He felt his father\u2019s lips brush his forehead.\u00a0 \u201cSleep, Joe.\u00a0 We\u2019ll wake you when we\u2019re ready to go.\u00a0 After that man is buried.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe smiled up at the familiar face that hovered over him. \u201cI love you, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

His father brushed a stray curl off his forehead.\u00a0 \u201cAnd I love you, you little scamp!\u00a0 Now, get some sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe closed his eyes and did what he was told.<\/p>\n

For once.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the most part, Da Chao and Longwei ignored them.<\/p>\n

After questioning Richard Jennings, they\u2019d pulled up a chair from the dining room and bound Jennings to it.\u00a0 Adam was seated about three feet away.\u00a0 He and the older man had talked a little, but since they couldn\u2019t say what they wanted to had, in the end, fallen silent for the most part.\u00a0 He had no way to let either Jennings or Hop Sing know about Ming-hua\u2019s daring move.\u00a0 He\u2019d cut his fingers a few times, but slowly the rope binding his wrists was giving way.\u00a0 Another minute would see his hands free.<\/p>\n

Then he\u2019d have to figure out how to do the same thing with his feet \u2013 and without being seen.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing was watching him closely, his black eyes narrowed.\u00a0 Adam suspected the man from China guessed what he was about.\u00a0 Perhaps Ming-hua had given him a knife too.\u00a0 As he sliced through the rope and itfell from his wrists, the black-haired man was sure of it.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing gave him a grim smile and nodded.\u00a0 A second later he called out loudly.\u00a0 \u201cYou set Hop Sing free!\u00a0 Girl no know how to cook!\u00a0 Hop Sing and Mister Adam no can live on soup!\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei and Da Chao were bent over his father\u2019s desk, looking at a map.\u00a0 Their heads came up at the sound and they turned toward the great room.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing promise<\/em> he not run away.\u00a0 Better to cook than to wait like chicken tied to board.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao looked mildly amused while his bully boy became instantly suspicious.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is in the kitchen?\u201d Longwei demanded.<\/p>\n

Their cook eyed the man like he was an idiot. \u201cFood!\u00a0 You let Hop Sing do job!\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei started to speak, but the tong leader silenced him with a hand to his shoulder.\u00a0 Da Chao passed by him then and came to stand before Hop Sing.\u00a0 \u201cMy countryman, you are an honorable man.\u00a0 Do I have your promise that you will not try to escape?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 Yes.\u00a0 Hop Sing say so already.\u201d\u00a0 Hop Sing sat up straight in his chair.\u00a0 \u201cWish to feed Mistah Cartwright\u2019s number one son and humble guest, as well as Da Chao and Longwei.\u201d\u00a0 He paused and added for good measure.\u00a0 \u201cYou fed well, maybe you leave!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam stifled a chuckle.<\/p>\n

Da Chao was considering it.\u00a0 Unlike his companion, the older man looked to be the type used to gracious living and comfort and a piece of that was probably a temptation.<\/p>\n

\u201cLongwei, untie Hop Sing and take him to the kitchen,\u201d the older man ordered.\u00a0 \u201cSee that he does not leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing give word,\u201d their cook stated, slightly miffed.<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s dark eyes took them both in. \u201cThere are words and there are words<\/em>.\u00a0 This one has lived long.\u00a0 Words can mean many things.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam clenched and unclenched his fingers.\u00a0 The tong leader\u2019s caution meant one thing for sure. \u00a0Longwei would go with Hop Sing into the kitchen and Da Chao would be the only one remaining in the great room.<\/p>\n

The odds were looking pretty good.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The journey home was agonizingly slow.<\/p>\n

Before they left the camp, he\u2019d mounted Buck and had Hoss hand Joseph up to him.\u00a0 As his arm circled Joseph\u2019s slender waist and the boy\u2019s chestnut curls brushed his chin, he\u2019d sent his middle son to make sure John Randolph was able to take his seat on the dead man\u2019s horse.\u00a0 Then with Hoss settled on Chubb, they took off.<\/p>\n

Heat radiated from Little Joe\u2019s quiescent form as they traveled and he soon fell into a restive sleep.\u00a0 As they continued on, Ben offered up prayers that the boy be spared another bout of pneumonia.\u00a0 His son had had more than his share of illness and injury in his young life.\u00a0 Each time it worried him that the boy would be left weakened.\u00a0 The West was a harsh mistress.\u00a0 It had little if any<\/em> sympathy for man or beast. \u00a0If Joseph\u2019s strength and prowess diminished \u2013 should he not<\/em> be able to do a man\u2019s work \u2013 he knew it would crush him.\u00a0 Little Joe already struggled with feelings of inadequacy.\u00a0 He was bound and determined to compare himself to the three grown men in his family.\u00a0 Ben wished his son could enjoy being a boy for as long as was possible but, with Joseph, he knew that wish was idle.<\/p>\n

Hoss fell in alongside them, his clear blue eyes trained on his brother\u2019s silent form.\u00a0 He glanced back at Randolph, who was bringing up the rear, and then asked, \u201cIs Joe all right, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

The hand he had placed on his son\u2019s chest drew the boy in.\u00a0 There was no end of satisfaction in the feeling of Joseph in his arms.\u00a0 A short time before they had passed the place where the boy went into the river.\u00a0 Everything could have ended so<\/em> differently.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure your brother will be all right.\u00a0 He\u2019s exhausted and I\u2019m worried about that cut on his leg.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think that\u2019s what\u2019s causin\u2019 the fever?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at the man who trailed them.\u00a0 \u201cSadly, no.\u00a0 John said Joseph was feverish before<\/em> his leg was injured.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom goin\u2019 in the water,\u201d Hoss said in defeat.<\/p>\n

He knew his middle son blamed himself for his youngest\u2019s predicament.\u00a0 Ben fought an inappropriate smile.\u00a0 They\u2019d all<\/em> done the same at one time or another.<\/p>\n

Joseph had given them ample opportunities.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, your brother made his own choice to fight Butch.\u00a0 How many times have I told him to step away \u2013 to control that temper of his?\u00a0 It\u2019s that<\/em> which gets him into trouble, not you, not Adam or me, but the cross God has given him to bear.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sayin\u2019 God made Joe a hothead?\u201d Hoss asked, his lips quirking a bit.<\/p>\n

Ben looked down at his youngest.\u00a0 Thank goodness, Little Joe was asleep.\u00a0 If he heard them talking about him like he wasn\u2019t there, they\u2019d get a real show of that temper!<\/p>\n

\u201cGod is sovereign, son.\u00a0 He created us for His pleasure and purpose with all our faults and flaws.\u00a0 They are given to us to overcome so we can be stronger; so we can be made into the image of His son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was laughing now.\u00a0 \u201cYou think God takes pleasure in little brother\u2019s hijinks?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs a father, I believe God takes pleasure in all<\/em> of this boy \u2013 his high spirits, his joy, and even in his temper.\u00a0 Like a sculptor chiseling marble, turning it from a formless block into a beautiful form, God is chipping away the child and making the man.\u201d\u00a0 Ben leaned down and planted a kiss on his son\u2019s curls.\u00a0 \u201cJoe will be a fine man one day.\u201d<\/p>\n

Little brother\u2019s nose wrinkled.\u00a0 A second later he sneezed and then his eyes came open.<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa was just sayin\u2019 what a fine man you are, Little Joe,\u201d Hoss said with a wink.\u00a0 \u201cYou just go back to sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

It had been said before, by those who witnessed his youngest sleep \u2013 and had no knowledge of Joseph when awake \u2013 that his youngest son was an angel.\u00a0 He looked like one now as a smile touched his lips and his green eyes sought him out through a tangle of curls.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you really call me a…man, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI sure did.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre we almost home?\u201d his son asked with longing.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlmost.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes drifted shut.\u00a0 They opened again wide at a thought. \u00a0\u201cDo I have to do…my chores tonight?\u201d<\/p>\n

He and Hoss exchanged a worried look.\u00a0 It would be quite some time before the boy was able to do any work.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot tonight.\u00a0 We\u2019ll let you sleep and then we\u2019ll see about tomorrow.\u00a0 How\u2019s that sound?\u201d<\/p>\n

Only one eye was open now.\u00a0 \u201cWill you do them, Hoss?\u00a0 I mean, \u2018til I\u2019m up and movin\u2019….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing, punkin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s hand waved, as if he was trying to reach his brother, and then he lapsed into sleep again.<\/p>\n

Hoss sniffed and wiped his eye.\u00a0 \u201cDang fool kid.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben laughed.\u00a0 \u201cNot so<\/em> foolish.\u00a0 After all, you\u2019re doing his work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Da Chao had returned to the office and was paying no attention to them.\u00a0 Adam shifted and showed Richard Jennings that his hands were free.\u00a0 The older man nodded and then turned to watch Chao, who was standing with his back to them, rummaging through his father\u2019s books.\u00a0 Adam eyed the door.\u00a0 It was only a dozen feet or so to it, but it seemed miles away.\u00a0 Richard glanced back and seemed to sense his hesitation.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo,\u201d Jennings whispered, his voice tight.\u00a0 \u201cFind my daughter, Adam.\u00a0 Please.\u201d<\/p>\n

With that Tory\u2019s father turned back to keep watch.<\/p>\n

Adam glanced at Da Chao.\u00a0 The Chinese man was engrossed in the book he had chosen.\u00a0 Drawing a breath, he reached forward and down and began to work on the ropes that held his ankles together.\u00a0 They didn\u2019t come easily, plus he had to stop two times when Richard signaled that Chao might turn and look his way.\u00a0 In the end, he was forced to insert the knife blade in one of the loops and pry.\u00a0 Finally the ropes fell away and his feet were free.<\/p>\n

For several heartbeats the black-haired man remained where he was, considering the consequences of his actions.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s lips lifted in a crooked smile.\u00a0 His little brother would have been up and on the move already and barreling out that door, but life had taught him to be more cautious \u2013 there were always unforeseen circumstances.<\/p>\n

A movement caught his attention.\u00a0 Richard Jennings was growing restless.<\/p>\n

\u2018Go!<\/em>\u2019 the other man mouthed.<\/p>\n

Still, Adam hesitated.\u00a0 If he was caught it might mean death for all of them, even though that would take away any leverage the two Chinese men had.\u00a0 He<\/em> could be the cause of Hop Sing\u2019s death and maybe Richard Jennings\u2019 too.\u00a0 On the other hand if he didn\u2019t <\/em>make a break for it, he was sure <\/em>to be the cause of something bad happening to his family when his pa and brothers walked in.<\/p>\n

That was all it took.\u00a0 Adam was on his feet in a heartbeat and headed for the door.<\/p>\n

Miraculously, Da Chao seemed not to notice.\u00a0 The tong leader had moved and was studying the map of the Ponderosa Pa kept on the wall behind his desk.\u00a0 With a word of whispered thanks on his lips, Adam opened the door as silently as he could and stepped outside \u2013<\/p>\n

Directly into the path of two more Chinese men.<\/p>\n

The elder of the pair looked at him with surprise.\u00a0 The younger stepped up and bowed.<\/p>\n

And then dropped him with an uppercut to his chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They\u2019d come to a crossroads.\u00a0 In one direction lay home and, in the other, Eagle Station where the only doctor in the territory sometimes took up residence.\u00a0 The problem was, Paul Martin could<\/em> be in his office or he could be a hundred miles away.<\/p>\n

There was no way of knowing.<\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright permitted himself a deep, heartfelt sigh.\u00a0 When he\u2019d been a young man it had seemed, well, romantic to strike out for the West, to smell the pines and breath the fresh air; to find land he could call his own where he could build an empire and create a family to possess and cherish it.\u00a0 Now, he wondered if he hadn\u2019t been wrong.\u00a0 He\u2019d lost three wives to this land and come close to losing his sons more than once.\u00a0 Oh, the air was fresh all right, and the pine trees so tall they reached right up to Heaven, but if he\u2019d made a different choice, God willing, Elizabeth would have still been alive and his sons would have been born and reared in a city where there were few dangers.\u00a0 Adam could have lived at home while he attended college and he could have enjoyed his son\u2019s achievements first hand instead of through a few lines penned on paper.\u00a0 And Joseph….\u00a0 He glanced a his ailing child.<\/p>\n

Joseph would never have been.\u00a0 Nor Hoss.<\/p>\n

Oh, he would have had other children with Elizabeth, but none of them would have been his gentle giant of a son or his wild and sometimes reckless youngest boy.<\/p>\n

Would the trade-off have been worth it?\u00a0 Would it have been better never to know and love these two sons if it meant he didn\u2019t have to live a life filled with worry and concern?<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head and chuckled softly to himself.<\/p>\n

Not being able to look into those crystal clear blue eyes that contained the sum of all the care and affection a man could hold, or that pair of mischievous green ones?<\/p>\n

No.\u00a0 Never.<\/p>\n

Come what may.<\/p>\n

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

The rancher turned to find the possessor of those blue eyes looking at him.\u00a0 \u201cYou made up your mind yet?\u201d<\/p>\n

He was standing at the fork in the road.\u00a0 They\u2019d stopped midday to let Joseph rest.\u00a0 The boy kept insisting he could ride the other horse they\u2019d brought with them, but he knew better.\u00a0 Little Joe was only just able to keep his seat riding double with him on Buck.\u00a0 When they\u2019d dismounted, he\u2019d tried to get the boy to eat, but had barely managed to get any nourishment into him before Joseph sank into a deep sleep.\u00a0 He was worried.\u00a0 His son\u2019s coughing had diminished, which indicated his chest was tight while his fever was higher.\u00a0 Both things meant Joe needed medicine, and to be resting in a warm place of comfort, neither of which he could supply at the moment.<\/p>\n

The question was, did he take him into the settlement and hope \u2013 and pray \u2013 the doctor was there, or home to Hop Sing?\u00a0 Hop Sing had been with them since Joseph\u2019s birth and had brought the boy through a good many illnesses with his Chinese teas, remedies, and love.<\/p>\n

He sighed again.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t know why, Hoss, but I\u2019m worried Doctor Martin won\u2019t be in.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid the Doc say anythin\u2019 the last time you talked with him?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben frowned.\u00a0 Did he?<\/p>\n

Yes.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome to think of it, Paul mentioned a conference in Sacramento. I\u2019m not sure when he was leaving or due back, though.\u00a0 He could have been and returned already.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOr he might still be hundreds of miles away.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher fingered his chin, thinking.\u00a0 Then he nodded.\u00a0 \u201cWe go home.\u00a0 My inclination was toward that anyway.\u00a0 Once there, we\u2019ll send one of the hands to the settlement to see if Paul has come back yet.\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s eyes strayed to his youngest who lay on the ground tossing and turning, twisting his blankets around his lean thin frame and moaning quietly.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph needs to be in his own bed, in his home, and surrounded by those who love him, not in what passes for a hotel in Eagle Station or in the back room of Paul\u2019s office waiting for someone to come.\u201d<\/p>\n

He felt his son\u2019s hand on his shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cOl\u2019 Hop Sing\u2019ll do right by Little Joe, Pa.\u00a0 He\u2019s pulled us all through our fair share of sickness.\u201d<\/p>\n

Yes, and Joseph had had more <\/em>than his fair share of sicknesses. Perhaps he should have fallen for a less delicate woman than Marie that last time.\u00a0 She had come from the ease and refinement of New Orleans and had, by her own admission, never been physically strong.<\/p>\n

Oh, but that woman\u2019s character, now there <\/em>was strength.<\/p>\n

It was that strength, bequeathed to him by his beloved mother, that would serve to get Marie\u2019s son through this as well.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to let your brother sleep a little while longer,\u201d he said at last.\u00a0 \u201cThen we\u2019ll see if we can get some more food and water into him before setting out again.\u00a0 That way, we\u2019ll make the house by dark.\u201d\u00a0 Ben turned in the direction he knew his Ponderosa lay and let out yet a third <\/em>sigh. He was tired and about on his last nerve.\u00a0 In his mind\u2019s eye he could see their home \u2013 their sanctuary.<\/p>\n

The only place on the face of the Earth he wanted to be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

EIGHT<\/p>\n

Beth Riley wiped her flour-caked hands on her apron, locked a stray hank of golden-blonde hair behind her ear, and went to the window to look out on the dingy side street of Eagle Station.\u00a0 It was one street over from the main thoroughfare \u2013 if you could call a wide, packed-earth path that was rutted so deeply it filled like a gully when it rained that.\u00a0 With her hand on the curtain, she pulled it back a bit and looked across the street.\u00a0 Since it was dusk, it was hard to see, but she was sure he was still there \u2013 the stranger in black who had been standing on the opposite corner for nearly an hour now.\u00a0 Dropping the curtain in place, she turned and went to her back room and peeked in.\u00a0 The elder of the two Chinese sisters who had come knocking on her door in the wee hours of the morning was sitting in a chair, reading a book. \u00a0Biyu, who was in the family way, was asleep, poor thing, worn out from their unexpected trip into the settlement.\u00a0 When they\u2019d arrived there had been three of them, but she\u2019d sent Tory Jennings home to her mother \u2013 with a strong word to tell the girl to keep her mouth shut.\u00a0 Tory had been nearly hysterical when she arrived, babbling on about danger and Chinese men with long sharp knives.<\/p>\n

Beth sighed as she glanced at the window again.\u00a0 Maybe she\u2019d live to open that fine establishment on the main street of the settlement she hoped to have one day.<\/p>\n

Maybe not.<\/p>\n

Dandan looked up, noticing her.\u00a0 The young woman placed the book on the chair and joined her in the dining room.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs he still there?\u201d the Chinese beauty asked, her tone both frightened and concerned.<\/p>\n

Beth nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYes, I\u2019m afraid so.\u00a0 He hasn\u2019t moved since I first spotted him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan went to the window and peeked out.\u00a0 \u201cHe is waiting for someone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOr some thing<\/em>,\u201d Beth said as she joined her. \u00a0The stranger was standing on the corner near Paul Martin\u2019s office.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps he\u2019s only waiting for the doctor to return.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese woman smiled.\u00a0 It was a sad little thing with even less hope.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps.\u201d<\/p>\n

As she turned and walked back into the room, Beth called out.\u00a0 \u201cDandan?\u00a0 Are you hungry?\u00a0 I have some pie left over from today\u2019s trade.\u00a0 You hardly ate anything at lunch.\u201d\u00a0 Her eyes flicked to the back room.\u00a0 \u201cYou or <\/em>your sister.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan pivoted to look at her, her black stare enigmatic.\u00a0 \u201cThere is no time.\u00a0 We must leave as soon as Biyu wakes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut why?\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman crossed over to her.\u00a0 Upon her arrival she reached out, touching her arm.\u00a0 \u201cThese most unworthy ones wish no harm to you.\u00a0 The honorable Hop Sing sent us here, else neither would have come.\u00a0 This humble one and her sister are most grateful for your kindness, but there is great danger to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth covered Dandan\u2019s hand with her own.\u00a0 \u201cWill you please<\/em> tell me what this danger is?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is to tell?\u201d Dandan replied.\u00a0 \u201cWe are Da Chao\u2019s property. Da Chao gave Biyu to his sister\u2019s son, though her desire was not for him.\u00a0 Another came.\u00a0 A man she did desire.\u00a0 My sister knew of the danger.\u00a0 Biyu knew she must not<\/em> love him.\u201d \u00a0The lovely Chinese woman sighed.\u00a0 \u201cShe did.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd now she\u2019s expecting this other man\u2019s child, and her husband has come to find her and take her back?\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan\u2019s countenance darkened.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cLongwei means to kill <\/em>her \u2013 and the child.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth\u2019s hand flew to her lips.\u00a0 \u201cOh, dear!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is why we must go.\u00a0 If Beth Riley is found with us, Da Chao will kill her as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you tell Ben Cartwright?\u00a0 I\u2019m sure he would protect you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe honor the house of Cartwright.\u00a0 It is this one\u2019s shame that has placed them in jeopardy,\u201d Biyu said as she made an appearance.\u00a0 \u201cIt is also this one\u2019s hope, when Da Chao sees Biyu is no longer there, he will leave without bringing harm to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth looked from one young woman to the other.\u00a0 \u201cBut you don\u2019t think<\/em> so.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLongwei has no honor,\u201d Biyu stated simply.\u00a0 \u201cThe one who owns me does not care who he kills.\u00a0 If not for….\u201d\u00a0 The young woman\u2019s hand caressed her expanded belly.\u00a0 \u201cIf not for this <\/em>one, Biyu would have let Longwei kill her rather than bring harm to any other.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth\u2019s concern had ratcheted up a few notches.\u00a0 From what the young women said, Ben was gone.\u00a0 The handsome rancher was out looking for that young imp of his who had managed \u2013 yet again \u2013 to get into trouble.\u00a0 Adam had been alone at the house with Hop Sing when this Da Chao and Biyu\u2019s husband arrived, forcing the sisters \u2013 along with Tory Jennings \u2013 to flee over the rooftop and through the woods.<\/p>\n

Crossing back to the window, the blonde woman looked out at the street again and was relieved to find the man gone.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to go for the sheriff,\u201d she announced.<\/p>\n

Both women looked frightened.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou must not,\u201d Dandan said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot for you.\u00a0 For the Cartwrights,\u201d she told them.\u00a0 \u201cI won\u2019t even mention you\u2019re here.\u00a0 I\u2019ll just tell him one of the hands came into town and said there was trouble.\u201d\u00a0 Beth crossed over to them.\u00a0 She looked directly at Biyu.\u00a0 \u201cHow are you going to feel if you find out those men who are looking for you hurt Adam or Hop Sing?\u00a0 What if Ben and Little Joe walk in on them?\u201d<\/p>\n

Biyu lowered her head.\u00a0 \u201cMost dishonorable person only think of self.\u00a0 You must go.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRoy Coffee is a shrewd man.\u00a0 He\u2019ll know what to do,\u201d Beth assured her as she patted Biyu\u2019s hand.\u00a0 Roy was acting sheriff now as Robert Olin had gone on an extended family leave. \u00a0She\u2019d never really liked the younger man.\u00a0 He was a bit stuffy.\u00a0 Roy had the right mix of an open countenance and a friendly smile that hid the sharp mind beneath.\u00a0 Not much slipped past him. \u201cYou two go in the back and wait.\u00a0 I\u2019ll just get my hat.\u201d<\/p>\n

At the door the older woman paused and looked back.\u00a0 She waited to make certain the pair had done as she said, and then she tossed her short cloak over her shoulders and stepped out the door.\u00a0 The sun was just setting and its dying light cast dark shadows across the dirt path in front of her store.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s why she didn\u2019t see him.<\/p>\n

One moment she was standing on the stoop and the next, she was in the alley and a man had hold of her.\u00a0 He wrapped one black-swathed arm around her middle and placed a hand over her mouth to keep her from calling out as he pulled her deeper into the shadows.\u00a0 They had just entered the darkest space when the man stiffened, grunted, and released his grip.\u00a0 As she stumbled away, Beth heard a word she had only heard a few times before, and that had been at the Chinese laundry when Hop Ling thought he\u2019d been cheated.\u00a0 A second later the man slipped unconscious to the ground.<\/p>\n

Beth heard an intake of breath and a short snort.\u00a0 \u201cServes him right for putting his hands on a lady.\u201d<\/p>\n

It startled her when she realized the voice was a woman\u2019s.\u00a0 What woman would have been audacious enough to take on a would-be Chinese assasin \u2013 for she was sure <\/em>that was what he was \u2013 and in a dark alley, no less?\u00a0 That\u2019s what she\u2019d like to know!<\/p>\n

The woman laughed.\u00a0 \u201cYou look like you were hit on the head instead of him, Beth!\u201d<\/p>\n

What?<\/p>\n

She knew<\/em> her?<\/p>\n

Two heartbeats later a lovely brown-haired woman of middle age stepped into the waning light.\u00a0 She was holding a traveling valise at an odd angle in her hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see Eagle Station hasn\u2019t changed!\u201d she declared as she toed the unconscious man with her foot.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve come back to trouble \u2013 and I suppose there\u2019s a Cartwright involved?\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth nearly fainted.<\/p>\n

\u201cRosey O\u2019Rourke!\u201d she exclaimed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The day was almost done.\u00a0 Ben turned in the saddle and glanced from their unexpected guest to his two young sons.\u00a0 They hadn\u2019t moved as quickly as he wanted.\u00a0 He was more <\/em>than anxious to get Joseph home as well as to take care of Jude\u2019s step-brother who was tiring.\u00a0 John\u2019s horse was at least a dozen yards behind. \u00a0The last time they\u2019d stopped to rest, Hoss had insisted he take Joseph on the horse with him.\u00a0 Chubb was bigger, he said, and Buck was looking worn out from carrying the burden of the two of them.\u00a0 Ben had protested at first but then, relented.\u00a0 A slight smile curled the older man\u2019s lips.\u00a0 He knew Hoss was right about Buck, but he also knew the gentle giant felt the need to do something to help his brother.\u00a0 Hoss bore a weight of guilt far heavier than the weight Buck had carried.\u00a0 Hopefully, once Joseph bounced back to his ebullient mischievous self, the big man would be able to lay that burden down.<\/p>\n

And Joseph would<\/em> bounce back.<\/p>\n

As they continued on, Ben considered his youngest\u2019s life so far.\u00a0 Little Joe was only fifteen and, like his mother, seemed prone to misfortune.\u00a0 The boy had already faced a good many trials, starting with the death of<\/em> his mother and the loss of his father\u2019s presence when he was five.\u00a0 It shamed him now to think of how he had reacted to Marie\u2019s death, practically abandoning his three young sons.\u00a0 If not for Adam, the damage done to his third boy would have been irreparable.\u00a0 As it was, the sudden loss of his mother and <\/em>father had left Joseph with a deep-seated fear of abandonment.\u00a0 Coupled with the need to prove himself to his two older, stronger, and more mature brothers, his youngest had come out a matchless mix of hunger, hope, bull-headedness, exuberance, melancholy and, unfortunately, anger.<\/p>\n

His prayers this day had been for many things \u2013 Joseph\u2019s health, Hoss\u2019 pain, and his son who remained at home, who had been none too well when he left.\u00a0 In his meditations with the Lord, he\u2019d been reminded of Psalm 139, and of verses thirteen through sixteen in particular.<\/p>\n

\u00a0For you created my inmost being;<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0you knit me together in my mother\u2019s womb.<\/em><\/p>\n

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;<\/em><\/p>\n

your works are wonderful, I know that full well.<\/em><\/p>\n

My frame was not hidden from you<\/em><\/p>\n

when I was made in the secret place,<\/em><\/p>\n

when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.<\/em><\/p>\n

Your eyes saw my unformed body;<\/em><\/p>\n

all the days ordained for me were written in your book<\/em><\/p>\n

before one of them came to be.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In other words, Joseph and all the turmoil and joy that came with him, came as no surprise to the Lord.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Pa,\u201d Hoss called softly.<\/p>\n

He turned toward his middle boy.\u00a0 \u201cWhat is it, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I can see the lights of the house.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben pivoted in the saddle and looked.\u00a0 Yes, he thought, it might just be.\u00a0 Adam most likely had anticipated they would travel at night and left a lamp burning to light their way.\u00a0 He had no way of knowing exactly what time it was, but supper would be long over and those within the ranch house might already have gone to bed.\u00a0 The older man sighed.<\/p>\n

Oh, how he looked forward to his own<\/em> bed!<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s gaze went to his youngest.\u00a0 Joseph was moaning and shifting uncomfortably in his brother\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

Not that he was going to see it tonight.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s your brother doing?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 face said it all.\u00a0 \u201cJoe\u2019s burnin\u2019 up, Pa, and what he\u2019s sayin\u2019 ain\u2019t makin\u2019 a lot of sense.\u00a0 He ain\u2019t felt this hot since he had them measles.\u201d<\/p>\n

Or since the two years before with Finch Webb.<\/p>\n

Ben nodded.\u00a0 \u201cCome on, son.\u00a0 Let\u2019s see if we can urge a little more speed out of our two weary friends.\u00a0 I\u2019m anxious to get home.\u201d<\/p>\n

And he was.\u00a0 Anxious<\/em>, that was.<\/p>\n

And not entirely sure why.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rosey O\u2019Rourke halted just inside the door of Beth Riley\u2019s shop to hang her hat and cloak.\u00a0 Beth was clucking like a mother hen and babbling on about rhubarb pie, strange men on the corner, and never knowing what will walk through your door.\u00a0 At first the brown-haired woman was puzzled.\u00a0 Obviously Beth would be upset about what had happened outside, but that didn\u2019t seem to be her focus.\u00a0 Rosey had no idea what had her friend flustered until she saw movement in the back room.\u00a0 Someone could have knocked her over with a feather when Dandan appeared in the doorway followed closely by Biyu.<\/p>\n

A noticeably pregnant<\/em> Biyu!<\/p>\n

\u201cBiyu!\u00a0 Dandan! How did you get here?\u201d she exclaimed as she quickly crossed over to the pair and embraced each of them in turn.\u00a0 Pulling back she smiled at the soon-to-be mother.\u00a0 \u201cI see you\u2019ve married.\u00a0 Is your husband here as well?\u201d<\/p>\n

Biyu\u2019s answer was to refuse to meet her eyes.<\/p>\n

Rosey turned to her older sister.\u00a0 \u201cDid I saw something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan touched her sister\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cMy sister should rest,\u201d she said, giving Biyu a little shove toward the back room.\u00a0 \u201cThis one will explain to Miss Rosey.\u201d<\/p>\n

For a moment, the expectant mother remained still.\u00a0 Then she looked up and met her perplexed gaze.\u00a0 \u201cNo.\u00a0 Miss Rosey is Biyu\u2019s friend.\u00a0 She has helped this unworthy one before.\u00a0 It is Biyu who must tell her of her shame.\u201d<\/p>\n

One of Rosey\u2019s eyebrows peaked. \u00a0Shame?\u00a0 <\/em>She glanced at Beth Riley who gave a shrug of her shoulders and looked, well, a bit sick.<\/p>\n

Oh, dear.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll just be about my cooking,\u201d the blonde woman said.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve heard all of this before.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey nodded as the other woman disappeared into the next room and then took hold of Biyu\u2019s hand and led her over to one of the tables.\u00a0 She helped her to sit and then took a seat opposite her.\u00a0 Dandan followed and stood behind her sister, one hand on her shoulder.<\/p>\n

Biyu sniffed, drew in a breath, and then began.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne year ago, the honorable Da Chao came to Biyu and told her she would belong to Longwei.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was Rosey\u2019s turn to suck in air.\u00a0 Longwei was a monster.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis unworthy one was given no choice.\u00a0 To refuse was to be sold and sent away.\u201d\u00a0 She glanced up at her sister.\u00a0 \u201cDandan would be sold as well, to punish Biyu for her disobedience.\u201d<\/p>\n

Her eyes flicked to the older of the pair.\u00a0 Justifiably, she saw hatred in Dandan\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd so you went through with it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The China girl hesitated; then nodded.<\/p>\n

And then shivered.<\/p>\n

\u201cLongwei is cruel,\u201d Dandan said, her jaw set and her black eyes flashing.\u00a0 \u201cTo him, my sister is worth no more than leavings from the kitchen.\u00a0 This one would see him dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

She meant it too.<\/p>\n

\u201cThough this unworthy one means nothing to Longwei, still he and he alone must possess her,\u201d Biyu said.\u00a0 \u201cHe locked Biyu in the room we share at The Delectable Dragon<\/em>.\u201d\u00a0 Reaching out, she took her sister\u2019s hand.\u00a0 \u201cDandan gave herself to the night watchman to obtain the key, promising he might return to her room if he remained silent.\u201d\u00a0 Biyu gave her sister a wan smile.\u00a0 \u201cShe came to me when Longwei was absent.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey was thinking about the word Biyu had used.\u00a0 \u2018Shame<\/em>\u2019.\u00a0 Was she shamed because she carried this monster\u2019s child, or for another reason?<\/p>\n

\u201cGo on,\u201d she prompted gently.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne day Da Chao and Longwei travel to San Francisco to conduct business.\u00a0 Dandan freed this one.\u00a0 Though it was not permitted to leave The Dragon<\/em>, still, Biyu was free of her room and<\/em> Longwei!\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey waited.\u00a0 When the China girl said nothing more, she got to the point, \u201cIs the child Longwei\u2019s?\u201d<\/p>\n

Biyu stiffened.\u00a0 Her sister\u2019s fingers tightened on the shoulder of her silk gown.<\/p>\n

It was Dandan who answered.\u00a0 \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tears trailed the length of Biyu\u2019s lovely face.\u00a0 \u201cA man came to The Dragon<\/em> too cook for Madam Ah Kum\u2019s guests.\u00a0 He was…kind to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one warned her,\u201d Dandan said, her tone stern.<\/p>\n

Biyu rose to her feet.\u00a0 \u201cAnd this<\/em> one did not care!\u00a0 Longwei is no different from other men to whom China girls mean nothing!\u00a0 John….\u00a0 John loves Biyu.\u00a0 He is tender.\u00a0 He….\u00a0 This unworthy one has never known love before.\u00a0 Each man took and did not give.\u00a0 John gives.\u201d\u00a0 The China girl squared her shoulders as she faced her irate sister.\u00a0 \u201cBiyu does not care if she dies!\u00a0 One night with John and death<\/em> is better than a thousand days lived<\/em> with Longwei.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan was unmoved.\u00a0 \u201cIt is not only Biyu who will die.\u201d<\/p>\n

For a moment the pregnant woman remained defiant; then she dissolved into tears.<\/p>\n

Rosey rose from her chair and went over to take Biyu in her arms. She held the young woman tightly and patted her back like she would have a child.\u00a0 As the China girl\u2019s sobbing lessened, she asked quietly, \u201cDo you love this man?\u201d<\/p>\n

Biyu nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd does he love you?\u201d\u00a0 That brought another nod.\u00a0 Rosey glanced at Dandan and then asked the girl she held, \u201cWhat happened when Longwei returned?\u201d<\/p>\n

The lovely young woman scowled.\u00a0 \u201cUpon his return, this one learned to be careful.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow did John come to you?\u00a0 I assume you were locked up again?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBiyu stole the key from this one\u2019s purse to have a copy made and gave it to the Englishman.\u00a0 Whenever Longwei was gone, he came to her.\u00a0 Now, she is carrying his child.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow does Longwei know the child isn\u2019t his?\u201d\u00a0 Rosey frowned.\u00a0 \u201cFor that matter, how do you?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Biyu held her head high.\u00a0 \u201cThis one knows it is not so.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe time is right for the child to be the Englishman\u2019s,\u201d Dandan admitted with a sigh.\u00a0 \u201cOnce John knew, he gave my sister an item to sell so there would be money to leave.\u00a0 He told\u00a0 Biyu to go to Ben Cartwright\u2019s Ponderosa where he would meet her.\u201d\u00a0 Dandan\u2019s stern gaze went to her sister.\u00a0 Her expression softened.\u00a0 \u201cThis one could not let her come alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute.\u201d\u00a0 Rosey held up a hand.\u00a0 \u201cHow did this John know about Ben Cartwright, or the Ponderosa for that matter?\u201d\u00a0 She would have understood if the former China girls had chosen the destination.\u00a0 After all, Ming-hua had written to them about the Cartwrights and their kindness.\u00a0 \u201cDoes Ben known him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHonorable Mister Cartwright has not met him,\u201d Dandan replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen how…?\u201d<\/p>\n

It was Biyu who answered.\u00a0 \u201cThe Englishman, John, is the brother of Jude Randolph.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ten minutes later Rosey was tying her hat strings under her chin while facing a very frightened Beth Riley.\u00a0 Biyu and Dandan had returned to their room.\u00a0 She and Beth had talked and had very different ideas on what to do about the web of Chinese intrigue they found themselves enmeshed in.<\/p>\n

Reaching out, she placed a hand on the blonde woman\u2019s arm.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll be discreet,\u201d Rosey promised.\u00a0 \u201cNo one will be able to trace me back to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDiscreet!\u201d Beth countered.\u00a0 \u201cFor Heaven\u2019s sake!\u00a0 I\u2019m not worried about me.<\/em>\u00a0 I\u2019m worried about you <\/em>traveling to the Ponderosa at night \u2013 and alone!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, don\u2019t be.\u00a0 I can take care of myself,\u201d she replied, favoring the other woman with a smile.\u00a0 \u201cAfter all, who took that man out with one blow from a well-placed valise?\u201d<\/p>\n

Shortly after she had knocked the man unconscious, acting sheriff Roy Coffee had come along and taken him away to the jail.\u00a0 She intended to stop by there to check and see if there happened to be any new information about who he was or what he was about, and then head out to Ben\u2019s.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to remember, it\u2019s the most natural thing in the world that I would head to the Ponderosa, Beth.\u00a0 No one will suspect a thing.\u201d\u00a0 Rosey hesitated.\u00a0 One thing they had<\/em> agreed upon was not to tell Roy just yet about the threat to Ben\u2019s family.\u00a0 They were both afraid the law rushing in might make things worse.\u00a0 \u201cRemember, Beth.\u00a0 Wait until tomorrow night and then tell Roy what is happening.\u00a0 If something is wrong, we will need back-up.\u201d\u00a0 She took the other woman\u2019s hand.\u00a0 \u201cAnd remember, you\u2019re safe here.\u00a0 Roy put a man outside to keep watch…just in case.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth squeezed her hand.\u00a0 There were tears in her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cAnd you<\/em> remember that boy of yours back there in San Francisco,\u201d she chided.\u00a0 \u201cYou told me he\u2019s going to get married soon.\u00a0 Rory would want you to take care of yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey hesitated.\u00a0 \u201cI promise I\u2019ll be careful.\u00a0 It\u2019s just…well….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to know Ben is all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

She felt her cheeks burn.\u00a0 \u201cIs it that<\/em> obvious?\u201d<\/p>\n

Beth laughed.\u00a0 \u201cTo another woman, yes!\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey\u2019s gaze went to the back room.\u00a0 \u201cYou keep an eye on those two.\u00a0 We don\u2019t need Biyu suddenly deciding to go look for John Randolph.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI will.\u201d\u00a0 The blonde woman smiled.\u00a0 \u201cWell, I guess you\u2019d best get going. \u00a0Give my love to Ben and the boys when you get to the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey grabbed her cloak and hat and donned both quickly.\u00a0 \u201cI will.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGod go with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled.\u00a0 \u201cHe always does.\u201d<\/p>\n

Then she opened the door and stepped out into the growing night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three of them reined in their horses as they topped the gentle slope.\u00a0 John answered his question as to how he was doing with a weary smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine, Benjamin.\u00a0 My shoulder is sore, but I\u2019m fine.\u201d\u00a0 The Englishman\u2019s gaze went to the horse bearing Hoss and his brother.\u00a0 \u201cYou just worry about your son.\u201d<\/p>\n

In spite of everything \u2013 including the sick and injured young man he held \u2013 Hoss was grinning.\u00a0 \u201cDang, Pa!\u00a0 It\u2019s like they say.\u00a0 There sure <\/em>ain\u2019t no place like home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben knew what he meant.\u00a0 The pull of the light spilling out of the windows, the idea of his favorite chair and a glass of brandy by the fire; Hop Sing bustling about, complaining and caring.<\/p>\n

Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cI feel it too, son.\u201d\u00a0 Ben eyes lingered on his splendid home, nestled in the \u00a0tall Ponderosa pines, for a moment before he turned to look at his youngest son. \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s eyes were open and he saw in them the same longing.\u00a0 Moving Buck a bit closer to Chubb, the concerned father reached out to touch his boy\u2019s arm.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019re almost there, Joseph.\u00a0 You\u2019ll soon be in your own bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt sure…will feel good, Pa,\u201d his son breathed softly.\u00a0 Little Joe licked his lips, which were cracked and dry from the fever. \u00a0One corner turned up in a little smile.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing\u2019s sure gonna…give me heck for being…sick again, isn\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure he will, and rightly too!\u201d he answered in his mock stern voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about it, little brother,\u201d Hoss said, forcing his tone to be bright.\u00a0 \u201cOl\u2019 Hop Sing needs somethin\u2019 to keep him busy, else wise he\u2019d get fat as me!\u201d<\/p>\n

His youngest son made a face.\u00a0 \u201cSure wish it was something else….\u201d Joe said as he drifted off again to a place where there was no pain.<\/p>\n

Hoss cradled Joseph\u2019s head in one of his big hands.\u00a0 The look he gave him was stricken.\u00a0 \u201cWe gotta get Joe home, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded.\u00a0 \u201cAll right, son.\u00a0 John.\u00a0 Let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/p>\n

The ride down the slope seemed longer than usual, but that was due to the fact that they were tired and both he and Hoss were concerned about the youngest member of the family.\u00a0 As the three horses pulled into the yard, everything seemed to be as usual, though it surprised him a bit when Adam didn\u2019t come out to greet them. Still, his eldest had been ill as well and he might have already retired.\u00a0 Hop Sing would be in the kitchen prepping for the coming day.<\/p>\n

After he dismounted, Ben went to his middle son\u2019s horse and said, \u201cHand Joseph down to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joseph awoke at that.\u00a0 \u201cI ain\u2019t a baby,\u201d he growled indignantly.\u00a0 \u201cI can get…down by my \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

It was a good thing he\u2019d been at the horse\u2019s side.\u00a0 Joseph managed to wiggle out of his brother\u2019s grip and nearly tumbled to the ground.\u00a0 Once Ben had hold of him, his impetuous son favored him with a weak smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cTold you so.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben had intended to scold him, but he couldn\u2019t help but laugh at the boy\u2019s triumphant expression.<\/p>\n

Hoss snorted and then turned toward the house. \u201cWhere you s\u2019pose brother Adam is?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cProbably in bed.\u201d\u00a0 Ben placed an arm around his youngest\u2019s shoulders.\u00a0 Joe leaned into him, obviously in need of his strength.\u00a0 \u201cWill you take care of the animals, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing, Pa,\u201d the big man answered as he slung his leg over Chubb\u2019s back and dismounted.\u00a0 \u201cYou just get Little Joe upstairs to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

John came to stand beside them.\u00a0 The Englishman had dismounted and tethered his horse to the rail.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll give Hoss a hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, John, you\u2019re wounded,\u201d Ben argued.\u00a0 \u201cYou need rest as much as Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m quite all right, Benjamin.\u00a0 Besides I am…restless.\u201d\u00a0 He shrugged. \u201cIf it will make you feel any better, I promise only to watch.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I\u2019ll have to be content with that,\u201d Ben said, then he turned to ask his young determined child. \u00a0\u201cDo you want to walk in on your own, Little Joe, or would you like a hand?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCome to think of it,\u201d his son replied, \u201cI am…a little tired, Pa.\u00a0 Maybe if you just sort of…hold me up….\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben wrapped his arm around his son\u2019s waist and together the two of them headed for the door. \u00a0Just before they reached it the rancher turned back and shouted, \u201cHoss!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBe sure to give Buck some extra hay.\u00a0 He really outdid himself today.\u201d<\/p>\n

His son grinned.\u00a0 \u201cSure thing, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard his father\u2019s shout and his brother\u2019s answering call.\u00a0 Both filled him with dread.<\/p>\n

The black-haired man had felt panic before, but none that he could remember that had been quite as exquisite as what he felt now.\u00a0 He\u2019d feared the tong leader, Da Chao, might do something to his family upon their return.<\/p>\n

He knew Khu Zhuang would.<\/p>\n

Two men in black had met him at the door and forced their way into the house brandishing knives and guns.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang, who from what he understood was some sort of a rival of Da Chao, followed close on their heels.\u00a0 The pug-nosed man had ordered everyone to remain still as he went to confront Da Chao.\u00a0 Hot words passed between the two.\u00a0 Adam heard both Biyu and Dandan\u2019s names mentioned, as well as someone named John.\u00a0 Everything else, of course, was in Cantonese.\u00a0 He thought Da Chao was a dead man when Zhuang took the tong leader by the throat and drew his knife, but Longwei intervened.\u00a0 Chao\u2019s nephew broke free of his captors and barreled into Zhuang, making the man stagger back and drop his knife.\u00a0 That was all the opening Da Chao needed.\u00a0 The tall thin man bolted for the door like a frightened rabbit. The tong leader\u2019s adversary recovered quickly.\u00a0 Zhuang caught the knife from the floor, pivoted on his heel, and took aim at the thin man\u2019s back.\u00a0 Adam swallowed down his fear, his eyes trained on the front door.\u00a0 He\u2019d hesitated for a second, but it was built into him not to let a man be killed in cold blood.\u00a0 At the last second he\u2019d stuck foot out and tripped Khu Zhuang so the rebel tong leader\u2019s throw went wild.<\/p>\n

It had been the biggest mistake of his life.<\/p>\n

Da Chao escaped, along with Longwei.<\/p>\n

Khu Zhuang was not<\/em> a happy man.<\/p>\n

The man from China had come to stand before him, his lips drawn into a thin line.\u00a0 The rebel tong leader had the face of a thug \u2013 round, with a flat nose that showed signs of having been broken several times, and a thin scar that ran along one side of his face.\u00a0 His gravelly voice was chilling.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not wise for a puppy to attempt to extract a tooth from a tiger\u2019s mouth,\u201d he\u2019d said.<\/p>\n

After that, Khu Zhuang had had him bound and then coldly informed him that whichever member of his family walked through the door next would die for his impertinence.<\/p>\n

Adam blinked his eyes to clear them of nervous sweat.\u00a0 He shifted in the blue chair, trying to ease the pain in his freshly tied hands.\u00a0 He had no idea if the snub-nosed man meant it or not.\u00a0 The threat could have been issued just to make him squirm.\u00a0 Then again, it could have been made in deadly earnest.<\/p>\n

He had no idea which.<\/p>\n

Khu Zhuang heard his father and Hoss talking just like he did.\u00a0 The Chinese thug went to the window and looked out, and then signaled one of his men to take up a position near the door, weapon in hand.<\/p>\n

Adam exchanged a look with Richard Jennings, who was obviously horrified by what was happening, and then his eyes went to the front door.\u00a0 He sucked in air to shout a warning and then remembered he was gagged.\u00a0 A moment later it opened and his father, supporting his youngest brother stepped inside.\u00a0 It took a moment for the older man to realize something was wrong.<\/p>\n

But only a moment.<\/p>\n

Adam struggled against his bonds as he heard his father\u2019s sharp intake of air and then watched as Khu Zhuang\u2019s henchman struck him and snatched Little Joe out of his arms. \u00a0Pa shouted \u2018No!\u2019 and reached for Joe, only to be driven back by a well-placed kick to his knee.\u00a0 The older man groaned as he fell to the floor.\u00a0 As he did, a sob drew Adam\u2019s attention away from his father and back to his little brother.\u00a0 Joe had seemed \u2013 well \u2013 listless and unresponsive \u2013 as if he were only half-aware when the man grabbed him.\u00a0 The danger to their father awakened his little brother and brought forth a long, heartfelt cry.\u00a0 It was cut short as Zhuang\u2019s henchman back-handed Joe and dropped the boy to the floor.<\/p>\n

Pa\u2019s shout broke the spell.<\/p>\n

\u201cLeave the boy alone!\u201d their father demanded as he rose shakily to his feet and stumbled toward where Joe lay curled up in a ball.\u00a0 \u201cCan\u2019t you see he\u2019s ill?\u201d<\/p>\n

The henchman moved silently and swiftly, coming up behind his father.\u00a0 A knife placed against the skin of Pa\u2019s throat stopped him in his tracks.\u00a0 His father\u2019s eyes flicked to him, and then returned to the pug-nosed Chinese man.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, let me go to my son,\u201d Pa pleaded, his voice breaking.<\/p>\n

Little Joe was coming to.\u00a0 His baby brother winced, blinked, and then struggled into a seated position.\u00a0 As he did Joe drew a deep breath, which brought on a fit of coughing. Instantly another of Khu Zhuang\u2019s henchmen was on him.\u00a0 The man in black grabbed Joe by his curly locks and lifted him from the floor.<\/p>\n

A second later a blade was placed against his brother\u2019s throat as well.<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s rival had remained still throughout, watching the proceedings impassively; his face sphinx-like. \u00a0Khu Zhuang moved now, crossing the great room to come to rest before him.\u00a0 In one swift motion, the thug removed his gag.\u00a0 As Adam licked his lips, the Chinese man looked from his father to his brother.\u00a0 When Chao\u2019s rival turned back, a sadistic sneer lifted the corner of his lips.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam Cartwright, it is time to choose.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhich one of them will die?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NINE<\/p>\n

Hoss Cartwright glanced at the two men in black who were trussed up like steers waitin\u2019 for the brand.\u00a0 He reached up and wiped the sweat out of his eyes and then turned to his companion.<\/p>\n

John Randolph gave him a wan smile and nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d the Englishman said.<\/p>\n

Pa would have washed his mouth out with lye soap for a lie that bald-faced.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d entered the stable trailin\u2019 the three horses behind them.\u00a0 As soon as he got into the buildin\u2019, he\u2019d know\u2019d somethin\u2019 was wrong.\u00a0 The horses in the barn were millin\u2019 about all nervouslike, snortin\u2019 out their displeasure and stampin\u2019 their hooves on the hard packed earth. Animals was like that and if a man was wise, he paid attention to the signs.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d brushed up close to John and, keepin\u2019 his voice low, said, \u201cThere\u2019s someone else in here.\u00a0 Look sharp.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jude\u2019s brother gave him a nod. John had just managed to get his pistol out of that fancy tooled leather holster he wore and cocked it before all Hell broke loose.\u00a0 Two Chinese men dropped on them.\u00a0 Hard as it was to believe, they must have been hangin\u2019 from the rafters.\u00a0 It was God\u2019s plan that the one who fell on him was lean as a desert grasshopper \u2013 though he was all muscle and meaner than a rattlesnake on a hot skillet. \u00a0It should of taken him a minute to take down someone that skinny.<\/p>\n

It took him three.<\/p>\n

By the time he\u2019d managed it, the ornery feller Jude was fightin\u2019 had managed to trap the Englishman in a corner of one of the stalls.\u00a0 Quick as a lick his hand went to his gun, but then he thought better of shootin\u2019.\u00a0 There might be more of them Chinese fellers in the house or around the yard who would hear the shot and take it as a warnin\u2019.\u00a0 So instead he just barreled into the bad man and used his size to drive him into the stall wall.\u00a0 As he stood there, staring down at his unconscious form, breathing hard, a thought had struck him.\u00a0 Neither one of those men in black had made a sound as they attacked.<\/p>\n

It was kind of, well, spooky.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think there are more of them in the house,\u201d John asked.<\/p>\n

They were still inside the stable.\u00a0 They\u2019d cracked the door a bit and were lookin\u2019 out.\u00a0 The door to the house was standin\u2019 wide open, which didn\u2019t make the big man feel any better.\u00a0 He felt even worse when another man in black \u2013 him, and the two they had trussed up in the stall could of been triplets \u2013 stepped onto the porch, stared right at them, and then went back in, slammin\u2019 the door behind him.<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn!\u201d Hoss muttered.<\/p>\n

They were inside.<\/p>\n

\u201cI feel terrible.\u00a0 I\u2019ve brought this upon you,\u201d John said.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked at the Englishman sideways, not quite sure of what he meant.\u00a0 \u201cWhether you did or didn\u2019t, John, ain\u2019t important right now. \u00a0What is, is that them bad men is in there with my family.\u00a0 You and me gotta figure out some way to help.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf…of course.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry.\u201d\u00a0 John closed his eyes as if focusing and then asked, \u201cIs there a back way in?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, there\u2019s the back kitchen door, but odds are someone would hear us if we tried that.\u00a0 Wait….\u201d\u00a0 Could he hope Joe had been careless?\u00a0 Hoss\u2019 eyes went to his little brother\u2019s window above the porch.\u00a0 Yes!\u00a0 It was open.<\/p>\n

Hoss turned to the Englishman and allowed himself a tight-lipped smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cGod just made one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dear God!\u00a0 How could he choose?<\/p>\n

Khu Zhuang had allowed his father to go to Little Joe.\u00a0 The pair were sitting on the floor just in front of the dining room table.\u00a0 His father had his arms wrapped tightly around the ailing boy.\u00a0 He was running his fingers through Joe\u2019s curly locks and speaking soft words of encouragement.<\/p>\n

But his eyes were fixed on him.<\/p>\n

His father didn\u2019t need to plead.\u00a0 Adam knew what he wanted him to do.\u00a0 Pa would have gladly sacrificed himself for any one of them, but how \u2013 how could they go on without him?\u00a0 Especially Joe.\u00a0 Little Joe had looked at him too, before he had fallen so far into pain that he was nearly insensible.\u00a0 Those green eyes had told him the truth \u2013 if he chose their father, he would be killing them both.<\/p>\n

Talk about a Gordian knot!<\/p>\n

Zhuang had been generous, or so he had told him.\u00a0 He\u2019d given him fifteen minutes to choose who would die and they were turning out to be the longest fifteen minutes of his life.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes flicked to the tall case clock.<\/p>\n

He had seven left.<\/p>\n

The Chinese man had turned down his offer to exchange himself for Joe or his pa.\u00a0 It was plain as the flattened nose on the rebel tong leader\u2019s ugly face that he thrived on other\u2019s pain.\u00a0 His only hope was that that was all this was \u2013 a game to bring another man exquisite agony \u2013 and that when the clock chimed nine, his threat to kill either his father or his brother would turn out to be a fraud.<\/p>\n

Zhuang must have seen him looking at the clock.\u00a0 \u201cThe arrow has been put to the string, young Cartwright.\u00a0 Soon it must be loosed,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam….\u201d<\/p>\n

It was Pa.\u00a0 The pug-nosed man shot him a look.\u00a0 \u201cTiger father may speak.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, you know what you have to do.\u201d\u00a0 Pa waited and then added, his voice rough. \u201cSon, look at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t want to.\u00a0 He knew his resolve would shatter.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon.\u201d<\/p>\n

With a sigh Adam did as he was bid.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon, you\u2019re facing a terrible choice.\u00a0 These are the times that test a man\u2019s soul.\u00a0 I\u2019ve taught you right and I know you will make the right choice.\u201d\u00a0 His father looked down at Joe and passed a hand over the unconscious boy\u2019s cheek.\u00a0 \u201cGod will guide you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam felt his jaw tighten.\u00a0 \u201cHow can God let such a thing happen, Pa?\u201d he spat in spite of himself.\u00a0 \u201cWhere is He now<\/em>?!\u201d<\/p>\n

His father\u2019s eyes were on the man who threatened both him and his son.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s here, Adam.\u00a0 Never believe otherwise.\u00a0 He will be with you all your days, even when I\u2019m not.\u201d<\/p>\n

Why did those sound like a dying man\u2019s last words?<\/p>\n

Zhuang had a strange look on his face as he turned to face him.<\/p>\n

\u201cFour minutes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

John Randolph dropped to the floor of Joseph Cartwright\u2019s bedroom.\u00a0 He remained there for a moment to catch his breath and then rose and followed Hoss to the door.\u00a0 The big man signaled for silence as he opened it a crack.\u00a0 They had no way of knowing if any of the Chinese men were on the upper floor of the ranch house.\u00a0 Hoss was betting they were all downstairs, but there was no guarantee.\u00a0 As they\u2019d approached the house from the side, they\u2019d encountered six horses tethered in the trees.\u00a0 With the pair they\u2019d left in the barn, that left four riders unaccounted for.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s middle son figured they would be pretty well occupied watching his father and two brothers, Tory Jennings\u2019 father, Hop Sing, and the three women who had been in the house when they left.<\/p>\n

If they were all still alive, that was.<\/p>\n

Hoss had his ear to the crack.\u00a0 He listened for a moment and then signaled he should follow him into the hall.\u00a0 As he did, John mentally berated himself for bringing this trouble upon the Cartwright household.\u00a0 He \u2018d said nothing at the time, but he\u2019d recognized one of the men in the stable who had attacked them. They belonged to Da Chao\u2019s chief rival, Khu Zhuang.\u00a0 Chao was the leader of the strongest tong in Vallejo, one that was dedicated to business more than the business of killing.\u00a0 He was a hard man and showed little or no mercy to those who crossed him, but he was far less sinister than Zhuang. \u00a0He\u2019d come to know the lesser tong leader while working at The Dragon.\u00a0 <\/em>It would be to his eternal shame that he had become involved with the rebel tong leader.<\/p>\n

The truth was, even if he had not needed to rescue Biyu, he would have had to leave Vallejo anyway.<\/p>\n

A terse \u2018psstt<\/em>\u2019 brought him out of his reverie.\u00a0 Hoss was signaling him to enter the shadows at the top of the stair.\u00a0 Pushing his own thoughts aside, John moved to join him.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey got Adam and Mister Jennings all trussed up.\u00a0 Ain\u2019t no sign of the women or Hop Sing.\u00a0 Joe and Pa is on the floor by the table.\u201d\u00a0 The big man swallowed.\u00a0 \u201cJoe ain\u2019t movin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

He could hear voices.\u00a0 \u201cCan you make out what they\u2019re saying?\u201d<\/p>\n

The big man scowled.\u00a0 \u201cSure can, but it don\u2019t make no sense.\u00a0 That there China man keeps tellin\u2019 Adam what time it is.\u201d<\/p>\n

John listened.\u00a0 Hoss was right.<\/p>\n

\u2018Three minutes,\u2019 Khu Zhuang said.<\/p>\n

The Englishman paled.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s a countdown,\u201d he breathed.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked at him.\u00a0 \u201cA countdown to what?\u201d<\/p>\n

John shook his head. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter.\u00a0 We have to stop it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what do we do, go in with guns blazin\u2019?\u201d Hoss asked, his tone dubious.<\/p>\n

He thought of his adopted brother Jude and how noble a man he was, and how Jude\u2019s character had pleased their father so.\u00a0 He, on the other hand, had always been a bit of a disappointment.<\/p>\n

The Englishman sucked in air. \u201cKeep your gun ready and wait until I give you a signal, like this.\u201d\u00a0 He waggled his fingers behind his back.<\/p>\n

The big man scowled.\u00a0 \u201cWhat are you gonna do?\u201d<\/p>\n

John gave his companion a crooked little smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cShow myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe time has come, Adam Cartwright,\u201d Khu Zhuang announced.<\/p>\n

Adam stared at the man, appalled.\u00a0 Up until this moment he had held out the hope that the pugnacious Tong leader was simply toying with him \u2013 feeding on his torment and discomfort \u2013 and that he had no intention of murdering either his father or his brother.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d been wrong.<\/p>\n

\u201cChoose.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tears flooded Adam\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 He just…couldn\u2019t.<\/em>\u00a0 Joe and Pa, they were bound together by that cord Charlotte Bronte spoke of in her novel, Jane Eyre<\/em>.\u00a0 The words were as beautiful as they were tragic.<\/p>\n

\u2018I have a strange feeling with regard to you. \u00a0As if I had a string somewhere under my left ribs, tightly knotted to a similar string in you. \u00a0And if you were to leave I’m afraid that cord of communion would snap. \u00a0And I have a notion that I’d take to bleeding inwardly.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t matter which he chose.\u00a0 Neither of them would survive.<\/p>\n

\u201cChoose or both<\/em> die,\u201d Khu Zhuang warned.\u00a0 As he spoke, the Chinese man motioned to the henchmen who stood to either side of his family.\u00a0 In response both men bent down.\u00a0 One caught Pa by his arm and lifted him up, while the other reached for Joe.\u00a0 This was it, the finale.<\/p>\n

The end.<\/p>\n

Adam swallowed over fear as a fire ignited in his soul.\u00a0 If that pug-nosed bastard laid a hand on either Joe or Pa he\u2019d \u00a0\u2013<\/p>\n

A stranger\u2019s voice called from the top of the stair, startling him.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Zhuang.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam saw surprise register on Khu Zhuang\u2019s face \u2013 just before rage narrowed his black eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cCur!\u201d Zhuang shouted.\u00a0 \u201cSon of a dog!\u201d<\/em>\u00a0 In an instant Joe and his Pa were forgotten as the rebel tong leader pointed at the stairs and shouted, \u201cTake the mongrel dog!\u00a0 He must pay for his insult to my house!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s mouth fell open as John shot him an apologetic look and then bolted past him into the upstairs hall.\u00a0 He waggled his fingers as he did.\u00a0 Fortunately, the big man understood the signal.\u00a0 Hoss stepped into the concealing shadows and remained there, waiting for Zhuang\u2019s men.\u00a0 He dropped the first one who turned the corner with a swift blow to the back of his head.\u00a0 The second came hard on his heels and the big man found himself in an awkward position \u2013 so it took Hoss a minute longer to take him out.\u00a0 By the time Ben Cartwright\u2019s middle son had subdued both men, Khu Zhuang was shouting, obviously irritated and ready to take off someone\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

\u201cKunlun!\u00a0 Chongkun!\u00a0 Report!\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a second for him to catch his breath.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s not over,\u201d he said, coming alongside Hoss.\u00a0 \u201cKhu Zhuang is a madman.\u00a0 We have to do something more or he\u2019ll kill your family.\u201d<\/p>\n

The big man pursed his lips and nodded.\u00a0 As Zhuang yelled again, Hoss edged forward toward the stair.\u00a0 He peered around the corner into the great room.<\/p>\n

And grinned.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks to me like what we gotta do is mop up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had happened so fast it made his head spin.\u00a0 Adam was staring at Hop Sing, who stood before him, as if their cook was something that had risen up out of a dream.\u00a0 The Chinese man spoke softly as he untied the ropes that bound him.\u00a0 His words didn\u2019t register.<\/p>\n

His eyes were on the scene unfolding on the floor.<\/p>\n

Their father was talking to Joe, trying to rouse his brother from wherever injury and suffering had taken him.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang lay silent on the oriental rug near his pa\u2019s feet, having been taken out by one swift strike to his head with a very heavy cast iron skillet wielded by their rather irate cook.\u00a0 Hoss was coming down the stairs, dragging two black-clad bodies behind him, while the stranger \u2013 who had drawn Khu Zhuang\u2019s attention to the top of the stairs \u2013 had descended to the great room and collapsed into the Pa\u2019s favorite chair.<\/p>\n

Across from him, still bound to his chair, was Richard Jennings.\u00a0 The poor man had passed out.<\/p>\n

He had his sympathies.<\/p>\n

Adam groaned as his hands came free.\u00a0 He pulled them to the front and began to run them to return the circulation.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Hop Sing,\u201d he said and meant it.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing see if Mistah Adam\u2019s father need help with Little Joe,\u201d their faithful friend answered.\u00a0 \u201cSend Ming-hua to get hot towels for number one son\u2019s hands.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s kind of you, but I\u2019m fine,\u201d the black-haired man replied as he pushed out of the chair and rose to his feet.\u00a0 After watching Hoss drag the two men out the door, he glanced at Ming-hua, who had accompanied their cook from the kitchen.\u00a0 She hovered near his father and youngest brother.\u00a0 \u201cYou had a man watching the two of you, didn\u2019t you?\u201d he asked Hop Sing.\u00a0 \u201cHow did you manage to get away?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll time men hungry.\u00a0 Offer to feed one who keep watch.\u201d\u00a0 The man from China grinned.\u00a0 \u201cMing-hua put sleeping powder left from last time Little Joe sick in gravy on beef!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam returned his smile.\u00a0 \u201cThat was quick thinking, Hop Sing. Thank you again!\u201d\u00a0 He looked out the door and then asked, \u201cDid Hoss know you were free?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t know no such thing, big brother,\u201d Hoss said as he reappeared.\u00a0 \u201cWe figured Hop Sing was trussed up in here with you and everyone else.\u201d\u00a0 The big man paused as he looked at Ming-hua.\u00a0 \u201cWhere\u2019s the other wimmen?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGone,\u201d he replied.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s a long story.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s gaze went to his father and brother.\u00a0 \u201cHow\u2019s Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s awful sick, Adam.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss made a face.\u00a0 \u201cDidn\u2019t help him none to come home to men what took over his house.\u201d<\/p>\n

And you don\u2019t know the half of it<\/em>, Adam thought.<\/p>\n

Their father had placed one arm around Joe\u2019s chest and the other under his knees and was rising with their baby brother in his arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, will you and Ming-hua please go ahead of me and ready Joseph\u2019s room?\u201d\u00a0 The older man turned a weary face toward him and his brother as he came abreast them.\u00a0 \u201cOne of you needs to go for Doc Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was bending down, taking hold of Zhuang\u2019s feet.\u00a0 The evil man was still unconscious.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll do it, Pa.\u00a0 I need to get these men to the sheriff.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0 His father looked disgusted.\u00a0 \u201cI want that man and the vile men who work for him off my land now!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlready done, Pa,\u201d Hoss said as he dragged the Chinese man toward the door.\u00a0 \u201cI got them other two in the wagon.\u00a0 I\u2019ll get this one out there and tie him up good and then head out.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go with him,\u201d Richard Jennings said as he roused and rose shakily to his feet.\u00a0 The older man\u2019s voice quivered with both exhaustion and relief.\u00a0 \u201cI need to get home to my wife.\u00a0 She has to be worried sick about Tory and me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing send girls into town,\u201d their cook said, interrupting. \u201cTory go to Mrs. Riley.\u00a0 She safe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood thinking, Hop Sing,\u201d Adam said.\u00a0 \u201cNo one would think to look for them there.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man from China nodded and then bustled up the stairs after Ming-hua. Adam caught his father\u2019s arm as the older man followed in his wake.\u00a0 He looked into his little brother\u2019s face and shuddered at what he saw.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s cheeks were red and his skin was pale.\u00a0 The sheen of sweat coating it made it look like wax.\u00a0 His brother\u2019s breathing was shallow and Joe moaned as he tossed from side to side.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow is he?\u201d he asked, concerned.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t be sure, but I\u2019m afraid your brother has developed pneumonia, Adam.\u00a0 After that drenching he took and what with not being able to rest….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to his leg?\u201d Adam asked, noting the blood on his brother\u2019s torn pants\u2019 leg.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure.\u201d\u00a0 His father\u2019s jaw tightened as he turned toward the door.\u00a0 His black eyes blazed.\u00a0 \u201cIf I wasn\u2019t\u2019 a Christian man, I would go out to that barn and take my son\u2019s pain out on that man\u2019s hide!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBed ready for number three son, Mistah Ben,\u201d Hop Sing spoke softly from the head of the stairs bringing his father\u2019s attention back where it belonged \u2013 to his youngest son.<\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t release him immediately.\u00a0 \u201cOnce you get Joe settled Pa, we need to talk.\u00a0 There\u2019s more going on here than you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

His father\u2019s eyes narrowed.\u00a0 \u201cMore?\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded.\u00a0 \u201cA lot <\/em>more.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man\u2019s brows leapt up and he sighed.\u00a0 \u201cGreat.\u00a0 Just, great.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGo on and take Joe upstairs, Pa. \u00a0I\u2019ll check on Hoss.\u201d\u00a0 He hesitated and then indicated the slumped figure in the chair before the fire.\u00a0 \u201cEr, do I need to see to our guest?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet John sleep, Adam.\u00a0 He was wounded defending your brother.\u201d\u00a0 He nodded toward the door.\u00a0 \u201cI think those two in the barn had something to do with it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cThey couldn\u2019t have, Pa.\u00a0 At least, I don\u2019t think<\/em> they could have.\u00a0 They\u2019ve been here for quite a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

He watched fear enter his father\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 \u201cJust what is it we are in the middle of?\u201d the older man asked, his voice hushed with conjecture.\u00a0 Before he could answer, Pa went on. \u00a0\u201cLet me get Joseph to his bed.\u00a0 Once I\u2019ve made sure he\u2019s resting as best he can, I\u2019ll come back down.\u201d<\/p>\n

As his father headed up the stairs, Adam turned and headed for the door.\u00a0 He wanted a word with Hoss before the big man went to town.\u00a0 He\u2019d made it about halfway to the barn when he realized something was wrong.<\/p>\n

It was too quiet.<\/p>\n

As he continued on, Adam\u2019s hand went for his gun.\u00a0 As it came up empty, he remembered he wasn\u2019t wearing one.\u00a0 Pa didn\u2019t like them to in the house.\u00a0 When he reached the barn door, he found it partially open.\u00a0 Adam hesitated a moment and then entered.<\/p>\n

The scene that confronted him stunned him into inaction.<\/p>\n

The wagon Hoss had been prepared to take the Chinese criminals into town was empty.\u00a0 Richard Jennings lay on the ground beside it, a knife protruding from his back.<\/p>\n

Hoss was nowhere to be seen.<\/p>\n

Seized with fear Adam called out, \u201cHoss!\u00a0 Hoss!\u00a0 Where are you?\u00a0 Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

His answer came in the form of a groan from somewhere near the back of the barn.<\/p>\n

The black-haired man crossed the dirt and hay-strewn floor swiftly, looking into the stalls on either side as he moved.\u00a0 In the last one, crumpled in the corner, he caught a glimpse of a leather vest and brown pants.<\/p>\n

Dropping beside his brother, Adam placed at hand on his shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cAre you hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDang it!\u201d the big man growled.\u00a0 \u201cI let them get the drop on me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThem?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss groaned as his hand went to his forehead, which was bleeding.\u00a0 \u201cThem China men in black.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t no more than got that fancy-dressed one in the wagon then they jumped me.\u00a0 Richard….\u201d\u00a0 Hoss looked sick.\u00a0 \u201cHe ain\u2019t…?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure.\u201d\u00a0 Adam pursed his lips as he glanced back at the prone man.\u00a0 \u201cBut from the looks of things, I\u2019d say he\u2019s dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn.\u00a0 He tried to help me.\u00a0 Took on one of them wild men all on his own.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow many were there?\u201d he asked as he turned back.<\/p>\n

The big man shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cTwo, maybe three.\u00a0 Them fellers moved faster than chain lightnin\u2019 with a link snapped!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam placed a hand under his brother\u2019s arm and helped him to rise and then they both walked to where Richard Jennings had fallen.\u00a0 He knelt and checked for a pulse.\u00a0 Looking up, he shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cDouble damn,\u201d Hoss said softly.\u00a0 \u201cHe was a nice man.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam acknowledged that truth with a weary nod and then rose and dragged himself over to stare at the ranch house.\u00a0 So much had happened in such a short time \u2013 Butch attacking Joe, his brother\u2019s disappearance and the desperate search to find him, the arrival of Biyu and Dandan, Da Chao\u2019s appearance and then, hard upon that, Khu Zhuang\u2019s.\u00a0 Added to all of that, of course, was Joe\u2019s precarious condition, Richard Jennings\u2019 unnecessary death, and the presence of a complete stranger in the great room who had collapsed into his favorite chair.<\/p>\n

He<\/em> really wanted to collapse into his favorite chair.<\/p>\n

Adam leaned his head against the barn wall.\u00a0 As Hoss would put it, he was wearin\u2019 down faster than a two dollar watch.<\/p>\n

Without warning a strong arm circled his shoulders, \u201cCome on, older brother, it ain\u2019t that long since you were sick.\u00a0 You lean on me.\u00a0 We gotta go tell Pa what happened and then I gotta go get the Doc.\u201d\u00a0 The big man glanced over his shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cGuess I\u2019ll be takin\u2019 Mister Jennings to the undertaker \u2018stead of those bad men to the sheriff.\u201d\u00a0 He whistled low.\u00a0 \u201cI sure hate to think of tellin\u2019 his wife he went and got hisself killed on account of me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam struggled for words of comfort.\u00a0 \u201cHe was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss blew out a short sigh.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t that the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gently, he disengaged himself from his brother\u2019s arm and straightened up. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019m okay, really.\u00a0 I can make it on my on.\u00a0 Come on, I want to see how Joe is.\u201d<\/p>\n

The big man made a face.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s hurtin\u2019 somethin\u2019 bad, Adam.\u00a0 John…\u201d\u00a0 At his look, his brother added, \u201c…that\u2019s the man sitting by the fire. \u00a0He was bringin\u2019 Joe home when a couple of those men in black jumped them \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam put out a hand to stop him.\u00a0 \u201cWait.\u00a0 More <\/em>Chinese men?\u00a0 They attacked this man, John?\u00a0 Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t rightly know, but they took off with Joe. \u00a0One of them got killed \u2018fore Pa found Joe, but the other got plumb got away.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTook off with Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s head was reeling.\u00a0 Another of his middle brother\u2019s expressions came to mind.<\/p>\n

What in the Sam Hill<\/em> was going on?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright frowned as the front door closed and he thought he heard the sound of both<\/em> his older son\u2019s voices as they entered.\u00a0 Stepping to Joseph\u2019s bedroom door and opening it, he listened.\u00a0 Yes, Hoss was there too.\u00a0 It puzzled him since Hoss was supposed to be heading to town for the doctor, but then perhaps his son had simply forgotten something involved with the delivery of his prisoners.\u00a0 He heard them speaking to Ming-hua.\u00a0 He had just sent the girl down to get some pine needles to toss in the fire in the hope that the powerful scent would help to ease his youngest son\u2019s labored breathing.<\/p>\n

Little Joe had been shivering hard by the time they reached his room.\u00a0 His first action had been to stoke the fire, and then he\u2019d gathered as many blankets as he could find from the nearby rooms to cover the boy with.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t help.\u00a0 Joseph was still <\/em>trembling.<\/p>\n

It nearly broke his heart.<\/p>\n

Not wanting to leave his sick boy, but knowing he needed to speak to Joseph\u2019s brothers, Ben went to the bed and leaned down to press his lips to his youngest\u2019s fevered forehead. \u00a0As he turned to leave, a word softly spoken stopped him.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa….?\u201d<\/p>\n

Sitting back down, Ben took his boy\u2019s fiery hand in one of his.\u00a0 With the fingers of the other, he caressed his son\u2019s sweat-soaked hair.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m here, Joseph.\u00a0 Your pa is here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben waited.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t sure Little Joe had heard him. \u00a0The boy was tossing from side to side as if in pain and, though his eyes were open, he couldn\u2019t be sure he saw him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam….Hoss,\u201d Joe moaned.\u00a0 \u201cMen going to…hurt…Adam and Hoss…\u201d\u00a0 His son grew more agitated and began to fight against him.\u00a0 \u201cNo!\u00a0 Let…me go!\u00a0 Have to…save….\u201d\u00a0 Without warning Joseph sat straight up in his bed and shouted.\u00a0 \u201cAdam!\u00a0 Hoss!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

By the time he had the boy restrained and back on the ticking, his brothers had appeared. Both were a bit out of breath.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Hoss echoed.\u00a0 \u201cIs Joe okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben took in the sight of his middle boy \u2013 the one who should have been on his way\u00a0 to town.\u00a0 Hoss\u2019 clothing was filthy and head was bandaged.\u00a0 A small red spot shown on the white linen strip.\u00a0 There was a story there, but now was not the time for it.<\/p>\n

Turning his attention back to his youngest, he said, \u201cYour brother\u2019s out of his head.\u00a0 He thinks you are both in danger.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam moved the most quickly.\u00a0 Ben released his son\u2019s hand and slipped out of the way to allow his eldest to take his place.\u00a0 He watched as Adam caught Little Joe\u2019s grasping hand in his and then reached out with the other to take hold of his chin.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, \u201c his son said as he forced the sick boy\u2019s head up.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe.\u00a0 Look at me!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joseph struggled for a moment longer and then blinked, as if clearing something from his eyes.\u00a0 Then he looked straight at his brother.\u00a0 After a moment Little Joe\u2019s parched lips parted.\u00a0 He mumbled a few silent words and then \u2013<\/p>\n

\u201c…Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it\u2019s me, buddy.\u201d\u00a0 Adam inclined his head toward the door.\u00a0 \u201cHoss is here too.\u00a0 We\u2019re both fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s fevered eyes rolled over toward the door.\u00a0 A slight smile brightened his face as they found his big<\/em> brother.\u00a0 A second later it turned into a frown.<\/p>\n

\u201c…hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss reached up to touch the bandage wound around his head.\u00a0 \u201cThis?\u00a0 This ain\u2019t nothin\u2019.\u00a0 I weren\u2019t watchin\u2019 what I was doin\u2019 when I reared up out there in the barn.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben acknowledged his son\u2019s lie with a short nod.<\/p>\n

There was<\/em> a time and place.<\/p>\n

\u201cMen…wanted me,\u201d Joseph began.\u00a0 \u201cSaid they\u2019d…kill you both<\/em> if I…didn\u2019t…\u201d\u00a0 His son gasped for air and had to wait as he fought a cough.\u00a0 When the words came out they were more full of air than the boy\u2019s lungs.\u00a0 \u201c…Zhuang\u2019s…men.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man heard his eldest\u2019s audible intake of breath.\u00a0 When Adam spoke again, his voice shook.\u00a0 \u201cBe that as it may, they didn\u2019t hurt us, Joe.\u00a0 We\u2019re safe.\u201d\u00a0 He ran his fingers through his brother\u2019s tangled curls, straightening them.\u00a0 \u201cYou just get some sleep, little buddy, and get better.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c…stay….?\u201d Joe asked as his eyes began to close.<\/p>\n

Adam glanced at him, his face stricken.\u00a0 \u201cI gotta…change my clothes, Joe.\u00a0 Hoss will sit with you for a while and then I\u2019ll come back.\u00a0 I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam released his brother\u2019s hand.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s fingers had gone slack.<\/p>\n

Ben watched his oldest boy rise and then turned and went into the corridor.\u00a0 He waited until Adam joined him and then asked again the question he had put to him before.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, what<\/em> is it we\u2019ve found ourselves in the middle of?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes shone with something he had rarely seen in their hazel depths.<\/p>\n

Fear.<\/p>\n

Real <\/em>fear.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a war, Pa.\u00a0 We\u2019ve found ourselves in the middle of a war.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

TEN<\/p>\n

\u201cMy mistake was in not understanding the Oriental mind,\u201d\u00a0 John Randolph admitted with a sigh a second before chagrin quirked one corner of his lips.\u00a0 \u201cMy first<\/em> mistake, that is.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright stifled a yawn and glanced out the window as the Englishman took a sip of tea.\u00a0 It was dawn and the only one who had gotten more than two hours sleep was Joseph. At that thought, the older man\u2019s gaze moved to the staircase.\u00a0 Hop Sing and Ming-hua were with his youngest son, tending him as best they could until the doctor arrived \u2013 if he ever did. \u00a0In the end he\u2019d sent one of the hands into town on a fast horse to see if Paul had returned.\u00a0 When he\u2019d left Joseph\u2019s room, it had been heavy with a mixture of scents.\u00a0 Hop Sing had been standing at Joseph\u2019s bureau, crushing barberry and goldenseal to add to the skullcap he\u2019d already prepared. \u00a0He\u2019d stopped to place a hand on the Chinese man\u2019s shoulder, wanting to thank him, and been surprised to find tears streaking his face.\u00a0 Hop Sing said it made him sad to see his youngest son unwell.<\/p>\n

He prayed that was all<\/em> it was.<\/p>\n

Adam leaned forward.\u00a0 \u201cGo on,\u201d he said, his voice carefully controlled.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes went to his eldest.\u00a0 Outrage was written in every line of Adam\u2019s lean frame.\u00a0 His son was furious with Jude Randolph\u2019s brother.\u00a0 When they\u2019d spoken a few moments before, he\u2019d told him to reserve judgment until John could tell his story.\u00a0 Still, from what Adam had told him of what had happened in the house since he and Hoss stepped out of the door to seek Joseph, Adam had every right to be furious.\u00a0 Two separate tong leaders and their hired assassins had descended on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 A good man had died.<\/p>\n

It seemed most \u2013 if not all of the blame \u2013 lay squarely at the Englishman\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

John met Adam\u2019s angry stare.\u00a0 \u201cAs I told you, Ben,\u201d he said, \u201cI came to America to, well, find<\/em> myself in a way.\u00a0 I wanted to do something on my own, without<\/em> my father\u2019s money and name opening doors for me.\u00a0 I did my duty by my family.\u00a0 I even tried to take over and run the company when Father passed.\u201d\u00a0 John sighed.\u00a0 \u201cI have no head for business.\u00a0 Jude is much<\/em> more qualified and so, in the end, I turned everything over to him.\u201d\u00a0 The Englishman leaned over and took hold of the papers that lay in a heap on the top of his satchel.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m an artist.\u00a0 It\u2019s all I want to do.\u00a0 Paint.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo how did you end up as a cook at that there cat house where that bad man took my little brother?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI had to pay my way across your country somehow.\u201d A small smile curled John\u2019s lips.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s not so strange, really.\u00a0 Cooking is an art as I am sure Hop Sing would tell you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut why at that<\/em> particular establishment?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

John shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cThey were advertising and….\u201d\u00a0 He swallowed hard.\u00a0 \u201cI have always had a fascination for all things from the Orient.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIncluding it\u2019s women<\/em> from what I understand,\u201d Adam said, his tone snide.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon, that\u2019s enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

His eldest met his stern gaze.\u00a0 \u201cPa, from what I understand we wouldn\u2019t be in this position if this man had been able to keep his hands off of Ah Kum\u2019s China girls.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n

His son blinked.\u00a0 He ran a hand across his stubbled face.\u00a0 \u201cSorry, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s hazel eyes flicked to their guest.\u00a0 \u201cSorry, John.\u00a0 I\u2019m tired….\u201d\u00a0 His oldest blew out a breath as he leaned back on the settee.\u00a0 He favored both of them with a pale grin.\u00a0 \u201cWell, no, actually I\u2019m exhausted.\u201d<\/p>\n

As Ben moved to place a hand on his eldest\u2019s shoulder, John spoke again.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re right, Adam.\u00a0 No need to apologize.\u00a0 This all started with Biyu.\u00a0 But the thing is \u2013 you see \u2013 it\u2019s not what you think.\u00a0 I love <\/em>her.\u00a0 We intend to be married.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut she\u2019s married already, isn\u2019t she?\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

John pursed his lips.\u00a0 \u201c\u2018Bound\u2019 would be a better word.\u00a0 Biyu was,\u201d he paused to draw a breath, \u2018given to Longwei as if she were a statue or a piece of art one could dispose of as they wished.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean there was no legal contract?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn the eyes of Da Chao and Longwei it\u2019s legal and, perhaps, in their community.\u00a0 Chinese women have no rights.\u00a0 They are considered property and often used to seal bargains or cement deals.\u201d\u00a0 John paused,\u00a0 \u201cI so<\/em> want to take her away from all of that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, John,\u201d Adam said.\u00a0 \u201cI didn\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Englishman nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI was at The Dragon<\/em> a few months.\u00a0 During that time I saw both Biyu and Dandan beaten by that man.\u00a0 Once they \u2018married\u2019, Longwei was so jealous he locked Biyu away most all of the time.\u00a0 When she was given a day \u2018out\u2019, she\u2019d emerge looking lost and frightened and there would be new bruises.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t bear it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s words were soft.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t think any of us could.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe problem is, Longwei is not only physically powerful, but influential with the tong community as well. \u00a0Da Chao has no children of his own.\u00a0 Word is he\u2019s adopted his sister\u2019s son and intends to pass everything on to him.\u00a0 Sadly, Longwei is not Da Chao.\u00a0 He\u2019s…well…as much of a bully as that boy who tried to kill your youngest son.\u201d\u00a0 John paused.\u00a0 \u201cKhu Zhuang \u2013 the leader of the secondary tong in Vallejo \u2013 \u00a0knows this.\u00a0 He knows as well that many of the older tong members would never accept Longwei as their leader.\u00a0 It\u2019s fairly certain that if he kills Da Chao, he will emerge as top dog.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTop dog?\u201d Adam growled.\u00a0 Ben felt his oldest son\u2019s form shudder beneath his hand. \u00a0\u201cHe\u2019s a madman!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe is that,\u201d John agreed. \u00a0\u201cI was a fool to have ever crossed him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben frowned.\u00a0 \u201cYou?\u00a0 What do you mean \u2013 you?<\/em>\u00a0 Is there something else that brought Khu Zhuang here? Something other than a chance to do away with his rival?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0 John admitted with a sigh.\u00a0 \u201cMe.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher took a seat on the settee beside his son.\u00a0 \u201cI think you need to explain yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Englishman looked each one of them in the eye before speaking.\u00a0 \u201cI have brought this evil on your house, and for that I shall be eternally shamed.\u00a0 I am the one who sent Biyu and her sister here.\u00a0 I knew from what she\u2019d said that you had helped her sister and wouldn\u2019t hold her…former life or her present condition against her.\u201d\u00a0 John paused.\u00a0 He shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cI had no idea Longwei would come this far to reclaim his \u2018property\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Khu Zhuang?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, yes. \u00a0From here, I had intended to book passage to England for the two of us as well as Dandan.\u00a0 I had to have money \u2013 a good deal more money than I had.\u201d\u00a0 He sighed. \u201cA cook\u2019s wages are a bare subsistence.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang was a regular client at The Dragon.\u00a0 <\/em>There were a good many reasons, chief among being the ability to keep an eye on his rival.\u00a0 He also liked my cooking.\u00a0 Zhuang invited me to his home several times to prepare meals for him and his associates.\u00a0 We spoke of our love of art and in time he took me into his treasure room where he had literally hundreds of pieces of fine cloisonn\u00e9 and jade.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you thought he couldn\u2019t possible miss one,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

John wet his lips and then nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u00a0 I took a piece of jade he referred to as the \u2018Jade Dragon\u2019.\u00a0 It was a one of those stones cut so the dragon is in a circle, chasing its own tail.\u00a0 When I sent Biyu off, I gave it to her and told her to sell it.\u201d\u00a0 He leaned back in the chair.\u00a0 \u201cIt was only later that I learned the particular piece had a special meaning.\u00a0 Once Zhuang realized it was gone, he set all his dogs loose.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd so you ran away, huh?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI ran away like the coward and thief I am.\u00a0 I headed for your ranch, intent on connecting with Biyu and Dandan and seeing them out of the country.\u201d\u00a0 The Englishman paused.\u00a0 \u201cI….\u00a0 I no longer intend to go with her.\u00a0 I am unworthy to be her husband.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about your child?\u201d Ben asked softly.<\/p>\n

John hung his head.\u00a0 \u201cI am unworthy to be a father as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man chuckled.\u00a0 When the Englishman looked at him with a frown, he said, \u201cI don\u2019t know about that.\u00a0 I did a few things as a young man that would have made a more conservative man wonder if I was worthy of the three fine young sons God has given me.\u201d\u00a0 He rose from the settee and crossed to John to place a hand on his shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cI have also been in love, deeply in love, three times now and I know I could not have stood by and let a man take his hand to the woman I cherished \u2013 let alone a woman who was carrying my child.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut what I did was wrong!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, yes, it was,\u201d he replied.\u00a0 \u201cThere is no excuse for stealing.\u00a0 The Bible tells us that and you can see how wise our loving Father is.\u00a0 Now, you must deal with the consequences.\u201d<\/p>\n

John looked from him to his sons.\u00a0 \u201cNo.\u00a0 It is you<\/em> who have to deal with the consequences.\u00a0 Good Lord!\u00a0 You could have lost half your family last night!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben returned to his seat.\u00a0 \u201cYou know these men \u2013 Da Chao and Khu Zhuang \u2013 what do you think their next move will be?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Englishman thought a moment. \u201cDa Chao is a thinker.\u00a0 He doesn\u2019t make a move without contemplating it for some time.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang,\u201d John sucked in air, \u201cZhuang is a thug and a murderer who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes went to the stairs again.\u00a0 This Zhuang had sent men to kidnap Joseph.\u00a0 Obviously he had been willing to use a boy to get what he wanted.<\/p>\n

Drawing a breath, he asked, \u201cAnd what precisely<\/em> is it that Zhuang wants \u2013 you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wish it were that simple.\u00a0 I would go to him and he could do with me what he wants!\u201d John exclaimed.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sure Zhuang has spies at The Dragon<\/em>.\u00a0 Someone must have told him Da Chao was headed here, to the Ponderosa, where he would be more vulnerable without his men and organization around him.\u201d<\/p>\n

So perhaps Khu Zhuang hadn\u2019t intended to kill Joseph, but to use his son to force his hand and make him turn over Da Chao \u2013 as if he had any power over the man.\u00a0 But then Zhuang couldn\u2019t know that.\u00a0 Perhaps he believed them friends, or even business associates.\u00a0 Maybe the rebel tong leader believed the reason Dandan and Biyu had been sent to him was that Chao wanted it.\u00a0 He might have thought the whole thing a had been a trap set for him.<\/p>\n

So many perhaps and mights….<\/p>\n

\u201cMister Cartwright, Ben,,\u201d John said.\u00a0 \u201cThere is one thing I can<\/em> tell you.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang won\u2019t stop until he has what he wants and who won\u2019t care who gets hurt or killed in the process.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMister John is right,\u201d a soft voice said.\u00a0 The sound turned their heads and Ben saw Hop Sing descending the stairs.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing come get Mistah Ben.\u00a0 Number three son awake and wanting you.\u00a0 No can get boy to settle down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go up to him.\u201d\u00a0 Looking at Adam and Hoss, the rancher said, \u201cAdam, please do the morning chores and Hoss, you need to head into town with Mister Jennings\u2019 body.\u00a0 We\u2019ll talk more later.\u00a0 John,\u201d he said and then waited until the exhausted Englishman looked up at him.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re wounded and you\u2019ve had no time to\u00a0 rest.\u00a0 Go upstairs and get some sleep.\u201d\u00a0 Ben sighed.\u00a0 \u201cIt will all still be here when you wake up.\u201d<\/p>\n

John rose slowly from his chair.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t know if I can do that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can,\u201d he said, briefly touching his shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cYou need to.\u00a0 All of us will need out wits about us to deal with Chao and Zhuang.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so sorry, Ben, I \u2013\u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cApology accepted.\u00a0 We\u2019ll say no more about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tears brimmed in the Englishman\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

A moment later they were both ascending the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An explosion of coughing greeted Ben as he stepped into the upstairs hall.\u00a0 With a nod to John who went on to his room, he took hold of the latch and opened the door and went into his son\u2019s room.\u00a0 The air was thick with the scent of herbs and the air moist and warm.\u00a0 Ming-hua was standing by the bed, her small hands on Joseph\u2019s arms.\u00a0 She was doing her best to steady him.<\/p>\n

As he moved up behind her, he placed a hand on her shoulder. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019ll take over.\u201d<\/p>\n

The look the girl gave him was one of deep relief.\u00a0 \u201cMing-hua go help Hop Sing.\u00a0 Fix breakfast for family,\u201d she said as she scooted out the door.<\/p>\n

Ben turned back to his son.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t tell if Joseph was coherent or not.\u00a0 The boy was red in the face and gasping.\u00a0 He took hold of him and drew him into his arms and held him tightly, waiting for the fit to pass.\u00a0 When the coughing finally quieted, he went to lay him down.<\/p>\n

Joseph clung to him like his life depended on the touch.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no…Pa….\u201d<\/p>\n

His hand went to his son\u2019s curly head.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s all right, Joseph.\u00a0 Pa is right here.\u00a0 You need to calm down.\u00a0 Becoming agitated only makes it worse.\u201d<\/p>\n

In answer, his son\u2019s fingers twisted into the fabric of his shirt, pulling it so taut the skin underneath smarted. \u00a0\u201cNoooooo!\u201d he wailed.\u00a0 \u201cPa….\u00a0 …killed my pa….\u00a0 God, no….\u201d<\/p>\n

He hated to do it, but he used what his sons sometimes referred to as his \u2018woodshed\u2019 voice.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph!\u00a0 You will stop this now!\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy stiffened.\u00a0 He coughed again into his shirt and then looked up with glazed eyes.\u00a0 It was almost as if he couldn\u2019t believe what he saw.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa…?\u201d\u00a0 Joe blinked away tears.\u00a0 \u201cPa?\u00a0 You\u2019re…alive…?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s hand went to his son\u2019s blazing hot forehead.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m fine, son.\u00a0 You were having a nightmare.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot a….\u201d\u00a0 The boy looked at him as he drew in air.\u00a0 \u201cNot…a…dream.\u00a0 …happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man drew him in close.\u00a0 He stroked those lavish curls as he spoke.\u00a0 \u201cYes, son, it did.\u00a0 But I\u2019m here.\u00a0 Nothing happened to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Or to you, thank God!<\/em> he added in a whispered prayer.<\/p>\n

Little Joe was silent a moment and then he said into his shirt.\u00a0 \u201cI wanted him…to kill me,<\/em> Pa.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t…live without…you.\u201d<\/p>\n

His fingers tightened on those curls. What did he say?\u00a0 Yes, you could<\/em> \u2013 and you would.\u00a0 You would grieve, son, but you would move on.<\/p>\n

But would Joseph \u2013 could <\/em>Joseph move on?<\/p>\n

If Khu Zhuang had killed either of them there would have been two<\/em> deaths that day.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon,\u201d he said at last, \u201cperhaps you\u2019re right.\u00a0 Perhaps you alone couldn\u2019t live without me, but I hope you know, you wouldn\u2019t be alone.\u00a0 You\u2019d have your brothers \u2013 and your Heavenly<\/em> Father to help you through.\u00a0 We are all His sons and He loves you just as dearly as I do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe fought another cough,\u00a0 He was still holding on for dear life.\u00a0 \u201cThen why doesn\u2019t he just make that evil man drop dead?\u201d<\/p>\n

It was the heart-deep cry of a frightened child \u2013 of all <\/em>of God\u2019s frightened children.<\/p>\n

Ben thought a moment.\u00a0 \u201cBecause we are all evil,\u201d he said at last.<\/p>\n

That brought his son\u2019s head up.\u00a0 Joe looked into his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs Paul wrote in the Book of Romans, son, \u201cIt is written, there is none righteous, no, not one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you\u2019re a…righteous…man, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Joe coughed and drew in a shallow breath.\u00a0 His son waited until he was sure it was only one cough this time to go on.\u00a0 \u201cI heard…the preachers say…so.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head.\u00a0 The \u2018ears\u2019 of babes.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot in the way the verse means, son.\u00a0 We are all sinners.\u00a0 If God were to make every man drop dead for the evils he has committed, the Earth would be an empty desolate place.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe seemed to think that over.\u00a0 Then a little light brightened those fever-weary eyes.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019d…be mighty…lonesome, wouldn\u2019t…I?\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a moment.\u00a0 Then he laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou little scamp!\u201d\u00a0 Drawing Joseph close, he gave his son a hug and then forced him back to the pillows. \u201cNow, young man, you need your rest.\u00a0 I\u2019ll just \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

A sound made him turn toward the door.\u00a0 Adam stood in it.\u00a0 His eyes were on his brother.\u00a0 \u201cHow you doing, kid?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Little Joe smiled.\u00a0 \u201cJust…dandy….\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben rose and crossed to his son.\u00a0 \u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Relief filled his eldest\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 \u201cDoc Martin just arrived.\u00a0 Jim found him making rounds, so Paul changed his route in order to drop in.\u00a0 I told him about Joe.\u00a0 He\u2019s washing up and then he\u2019ll be here.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was something more than relief in those hazel orbs.\u00a0 \u201cAnd?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam lowered his voice.\u00a0 \u201cRoy Coffee\u2019s with him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched his father draw a breath and straighten his shoulders as he descended the stairs, visibly expelling the weariness he had<\/em> to feel.\u00a0 Pa had napped in the chair by Joe\u2019s bedside, but only briefly and even then his sleep had been troubled.\u00a0 He was weary \u2013 they were all bone<\/em>-weary.<\/p>\n

And it didn\u2019t look like there would be any reprieve ahead.<\/p>\n

Roy had refused to state his business when he came in the door, insisting he had to speak to their father.\u00a0 Paul Martin had given him a look as he entered behind Roy \u2013 he couldn\u2019t quite say what kind<\/em> of a look \u2013 but it hadn\u2019t been encouraging. The physician was greeting Pa now.\u00a0 They spoke briefly and then Paul headed up the stairs.<\/p>\n

As he passed him, the older man said, \u201cHere we are again.\u00a0 I swear that youngest brother of yours could keep me in business single-handedly.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam nodded and then finished his descent.<\/p>\n

Pa had turned to Roy and the two of them were talking.\u00a0 The acting sheriff looked decidedly\u00a0 uncomfortable.\u00a0 What subject, he wondered, could make the lawman so hesitant to speak?\u00a0 Before he could reach them, the pair stepped outside.\u00a0 Adam halted by the tall case clock as the door closed in his face.\u00a0 It was really none of his business \u2013 unless, of course, it was.\u00a0 But then Pa would tell him later if that was the case.<\/p>\n

As he stood there, pondering what to do next, a delectable aroma wafted through the great room, drawn no doubt by the opening of the door.\u00a0 As he nosed it, his stomach growled.\u00a0 They\u2019d had a cold bite before attempting to sleep, but it had done little to make up for more than a day\u2019s worth of missed meals.\u00a0 The black-haired man grinned as he turned his feet toward the kitchen, wondering if he could use that Eastern college education of his to finagle a \u2018preview\u2019 of the coming repast.<\/p>\n

As he rounded the corner, Adam spotted Hop Sing working at the block table. \u201cGood morning, Hop Sing,\u201d he said, making an appropriately enthused and satisfied sound as he did.\u00a0 \u201cMm-hm! The coffee and bacon smell good!\u201d\u00a0 It was only then he noticed Ming-hua working in the corner.\u00a0 She was so quiet, he completely missed her sometimes. \u201cGood morning to you too, Ming-hua.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Mister Adam,\u201d she said and then went back to her chopping. Adam strolled over to the stove and lifted a lid.\u00a0 \u201cWhat\u2019s this?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing came over and rapped his fingers so the lid dropped back into place.\u00a0 \u201cSoup for sick brother.\u00a0 Needs to steep.\u00a0 You keep fingers off lid!\u201d<\/p>\n

So much for getting on their cook\u2019s good<\/em> side.<\/p>\n

Ming-hua snickered and then hid it in a sneeze.<\/p>\n

\u201cGirl no catch cold!\u201d their cook shouted, shaking a large spoon in her general direction.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing already have patient!\u00a0 No need another!\u201d<\/p>\n

Apparently Hop Sing hadn\u2019t had enough sleep either.\u00a0 He was just about as sociable as an ulcerated tooth.<\/p>\n

Hope was fading fast that he\u2019d get anything to eat before breakfast.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ll just be going then,\u201d he said, admitting defeat.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry to have intruded.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNumber one son wait one minute!\u201d Hop Sing exclaimed.<\/p>\n

Adam had reached the hall.\u00a0 He looked back to find their cook standing at the end of the kitchen work table with his hands on his hips.\u00a0 A familiar gesture that brooked no disobedience.<\/p>\n

He took a few steps back and asked, \u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The man from China narrowed his eyes in suspicion.\u00a0 \u201cWhat you come to Hop Sing\u2019s kitchen for in first place?\u201d<\/p>\n

Did he fess up?<\/p>\n

Too tired to come up with anything better, he said, \u201cI guess I was hungry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing\u2019s look softened.\u00a0 \u201cBoy not eat last night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI….\u201d\u00a0 Adam stopped as the scene he had been trying to avoid flashed before his eyes \u2013 his pa on the floor, holding Joe.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang saying, \u2018The time has come, Adam Cartwright.<\/em>\u2019\u00a0 He closed his eyes but it did nothing to dismiss it.\u00a0 \u201cI…couldn\u2019t,\u201d he admitted at last.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing stared at him a moment and then pointed to the chair by the table.\u00a0 \u201cBoy sit down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally, Hop Sing, I don\u2019t want to….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy sit down!\u00a0 Ming-hua go see if Doctor Paul in need of anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

The girl rose from her chair, bowed, and left the kitchen without a word.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy sit down,\u201d Hop Sing said again, his voice gentle this time.\u00a0 \u201cEat.\u00a0 Talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eat, he could do.<\/p>\n

Talk?\u00a0 That was another thing.<\/p>\n

As he took the familiar chair and Hop Sing placed a plate with bread and bacon before him, and then added a cup of coffee, Adam felt his mouth water.\u00a0 He only wished he had known whether it came from savoring the scent or because he was going to vomit.\u00a0 As Hop Sing took a seat opposite him, he shoved the plate away and dropped his head into his hands.\u00a0 \u201cDear God,\u201d he sighed.\u00a0 \u201cI could have lost them both.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour father and Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded without looking up.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think you cause of their deaths if they die?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam sucked in air and shifted back.\u00a0 He pinned the other man with his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u00a0 I let Da Chao and then Zhuang get the drop on me.\u00a0 If I had only…\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot opened door?\u00a0 Not seen who was outside?\u00a0 Maybe sheriff.\u00a0 Maybe father carrying number three son.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing\u2019s dark eyes were fastened on him.\u00a0 \u201cMistah Adam try to escape.\u00a0 This mistake?\u201d<\/p>\n

He frowned.\u00a0 \u201cNo, but still \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut what?\u00a0 No, \u2018but still\u2019!\u00a0 Mistah Adam do all he can for family.\u00a0 Evil man bind him and tell him make impossible choice.\u201d\u00a0 Hop Sing paused.\u00a0 \u201cHe make no choice.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t,\u201d he sighed.\u00a0 \u201cGod knows I couldn\u2019t!\u00a0 I knew if I chose Joe then Pa would wither away.\u00a0\u00a0 And if I chose Pa, dear Lord, Joe would never have survived, not only seeing his father die before his eyes but feeling he was the cause<\/em> of his death. \u00a0You know, Joe. That\u2019s what he would<\/em> have thought and it would have destroyed him!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMistah Adam caught between rock and hard place. \u00a0He no answer because there was no answer.\u201d<\/p>\n

One second more.\u00a0 One second.<\/em>\u00a0 If John Randolph had not appeared at the top of the stairs and Hoss followed closely after, he would have been forced to choose, or by not <\/em>choosing, condemned both his baby brother and his father to death.<\/p>\n

\u201cA Gordian knot,\u201d Adam answered with a slight nod.\u00a0 \u201cA problem that is insoluble under its own terms.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMistah Hoss, Mister Randolph not part of terms.\u00a0 When man have no way, God <\/em>make way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam felt a little of the tension leave him.\u00a0 \u201cI guess He did.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing nodded once.\u00a0 Then he shook his spoon at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy eat!\u00a0 Get skinny as number three son!\u00a0 Get sick<\/em> like number three son!\u201d\u00a0 The man from China rose to his feet and pointed at the plate and cup before him.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing no need another patient!\u00a0 You eat now!\u201d
\nBen\u2019s head was spinning.\u00a0 He held up a hand.\u00a0 He was so tired, he wasn\u2019t sure he had heard the lawman right.<\/p>\n

\u201cTell me again, who\u2019s <\/em>missing?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLike I said, Ben, it\u2019s Rosey O\u2019Rourke.\u201d<\/p>\n

Momentarily, the rancher wondered if it would be worth troubling deaf Heaven with some bootless cries?<\/p>\n

\u201cI…I don\u2019t understand, Roy.\u00a0 I knew Rosey was coming at some point, but I hadn\u2019t heard anything from her. \u00a0I expected a wire….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cKnowing a woman, she probably wanted to surprise you,\u201d Roy groused.\u00a0 \u201cSeems she was at Beth Riley\u2019s with them two China girls.\u00a0 When she found out you and yours were in danger, Beth said there was no stopping her.\u00a0 Rosey came by to see me first and let me know about the man who\u2019d been watching Beth\u2019s place.\u00a0 When she left, she said she was comin\u2019 straight here.\u201d\u00a0 The lawman shook his head and sighed. \u201cI was hopin\u2019 to find her here. \u00a0She\u2019s a lovely woman, Ben.\u00a0 I hate to think of her in the hands of those no good men.\u201d<\/p>\n

Something Roy said was trying to penetrate the fog in his brain.\u00a0 Something about the shop….<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, there was a man watching the shop?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid more than watch it.\u00a0 When Beth stepped out to head over to the jail, one of them Chinese hoodlums jumped her.\u00a0 Said he came right out of the shadows.\u00a0 She couldn\u2019t see him, for he were dressed all in black.\u201d<\/p>\n

Fingers of ice gripped his heart.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo on,\u201d he said, his jaw tight.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat Rosey, she came up behind that Chinese feller and conked him on the head with her travelin\u2019 case.\u00a0 Knocked him out plain cold and tied him up with some of her corset strings.\u201d\u00a0 Roy snorted.\u00a0 \u201cYou should of seen the look on his face when I found him!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben was still pondering all he had heard.\u00a0 \u201cSo Rosey told both Beth and<\/em> you that she was coming straight to the Ponderosa?\u00a0 And she set out alone?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know that woman.\u00a0 \u2018I was an army scout,<\/em>\u2019 she said.\u00a0 \u2018I don\u2019t need a man for a simple drive into the country.<\/em>\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

Drive into the country?\u00a0 Twenty miles of wilderness and desert?<\/p>\n

Ben took a step toward the road and then turned back, realizing he had no idea of where to go.\u00a0 \u201cDid you see any signs on your way here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt were pretty dark.\u00a0 Figured I\u2019d check for them on my way back,\u201d Roy answered.<\/p>\n

The rancher gave him a short nod.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m coming with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Roy grinned.\u00a0 \u201cFigured that too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the end, after burying Mister Jennings on the Ponderosa, Hoss came with them as well, leaving Adam home to attend his ailing brother.\u00a0 Paul Martin had come downstairs before they left and confirmed his fears \u2013 Joe had pneumonia.\u00a0 So far, it was a mild case and non-life threatening, but Paul was concerned about Joseph\u2019s fever and the fact that it was so persistent.\u00a0 He\u2019d thanked the doctor \u2013 who said he would stop back in the evening after making his rounds to see how Joe was doing \u2013 and then explained to his older sons what was happening.\u00a0 Both had wanted to come with him.\u00a0 They were both fond of Rosey and Adam in particular seemed quite agitated.\u00a0 That was part of the reason he had left him behind.<\/p>\n

That and the fact that Hoss was one of the best trackers in the territory.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d spotted signs of a carriage.\u00a0 It had come to an abrupt halt about two miles from the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Something had happened and the horses had run off.\u00a0 How he was able to distinguish them, he\u2019d never know, but Hoss was able to point out five distinct set of foot prints \u2013 four men and one woman.\u00a0 The woman\u2019s tracks disappeared quickly, so they assumed she had been carried away into the woods.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s about it,\u201d Hoss said as he stood up and brushed the dirt and debris from his knees.\u00a0 \u201cOne of them is definitely carrying something a hundred pounds or more.\u00a0 There\u2019s no sign of horses here, other than them ones that ran away.\u00a0 Seems like whoever took Rosey was on foot.\u201d<\/p>\n

Whoever <\/em>took Rosey.<\/p>\n

Was it Da Chao, a man who might \u2013 just might<\/em> treat her with respect?\u00a0 Or was it instead Khu Zhuang who would….<\/p>\n

Ben clenched his fists.\u00a0 God God!\u00a0 He feared what that man might do.<\/p>\n

\u201cTracks lead into the trees, Ben,\u201d Roy Coffee said softly.\u00a0 \u201cYou ready to ride after your lady friend?\u201d<\/p>\n

His<\/em> lady friend.\u00a0 That was right.\u00a0 Rosey was<\/em> his lady friend.<\/p>\n

Everyone knew it but him, it seemed.<\/p>\n

\u201cMore<\/em> than ready, Roy,\u201d the rancher replied as he placed his foot in the stirrup and rose to his full height before swinging his leg over the saddle.\u00a0 \u201cI have a score to settle with those men.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Ben,\u201d the lawman cautioned.\u00a0 \u201cYou know I cain\u2019t let you take the law into your own hands.\u201d<\/p>\n

He wasn\u2019t about to.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t need to use his own hands.<\/p>\n

He was counting on the hands of God.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ELEVEN<\/p>\n

Rosey O\u2019Rourke was furious.<\/p>\n

With herself mostly.<\/p>\n

How could she have been so stupid?! <\/em>You would have thought she was some green city girl totally unprepared for the unexpected dangers of the West.<\/p>\n

The older woman rolled her eyes and let out a sigh as she looked at her bound hands and feet, and then eyed the pair of Chinese men speaking in low tones several yards away.\u00a0 <\/em>Actually, she knew what the problem was.\u00a0 Her mind had been preoccupied.<\/p>\n

Preoccupied with the thought of seeing Ben Cartwright again.<\/p>\n

It had been over a year since she had visited the Ponderosa, almost a year and a half actually.\u00a0 Rory had been released from prison six months early for good behavior and she\u2019d spent the better part of them helping him to get settled into ordinary life again.\u00a0 A few weeks back he\u2019d suggested she visit Ben.\u00a0 Rosey smiled.\u00a0 While he was in prison, Rory had mentioned in his letters a young nurse named Jennifer who had assisted the prison doctor.\u00a0 It turned out the two of them had fallen in love.\u00a0 Her son told her just before she left that they intended to marry in the autumn.<\/p>\n

She\u2019d thought long and hard before coming to see Ben.\u00a0 Her dilemma was the same.\u00a0 Upon his release the prison doctor had recommended Rory to a medical school and he\u2019d been accepted.\u00a0 Once he and Jenny were married, they were going to move to San Francisco where he would begin the fall term.\u00a0 Their marriage meant children and that meant that she might soon have grandchildren \u2013 in<\/em> San Francisco.\u00a0 What was the point of rekindling the feelings she had for the handsome rancher just to be denied \u2013 well \u2013 any sort of consummation of them?<\/p>\n

Of course it was all a moot point if the men who had taken her prisoner decided to end her life.<\/p>\n

Rosey glanced again at the ropes that bound her wrists and feet and then rolled her eyes.\u00a0 Somehow she\u2019d never have cast herself in the part of the damsel in distress!\u00a0 At that thought, her gaze returned to her captors.\u00a0 She\u2019d been in plenty of tight spots before where she\u2019d been able to use her wits and her feminine wiles to escape.\u00a0 But these men were different.\u00a0 This was Da Chao, Madame Ah Kum\u2019s husband and the leader of the strongest tong in Vallejo.\u00a0 He was as formidable as any man she had ever met.\u00a0 Even worse, he had his brutish bodyguard with him. \u00a0Longwei kept looking at her.\u00a0 Chao\u2019s nephew suspected she knew where Biyu was and had threatened to use violence to make her talk.\u00a0 Fortunately Da Chao \u2013 whatever else he was \u2013 was a businessman and never made a move without thinking through all the angles.<\/p>\n

Like how he could use her to make Ben Cartwright do what he wanted.<\/p>\n

Apparently either Biyu or Dandan had read some of her letters to the other girls.\u00a0 That was the only way she could imagine Da Chao had learned of her feelings for the rancher.\u00a0 Her chief fear now was that Ben would find out what had happened and come charging in like that damsel\u2019s white knight, intent on freeing her, and put himself <\/em>in danger.\u00a0 Rosey frowned.\u00a0 She didn\u2019t want that.\u00a0 Rory was old enough to survive should something happen to her.\u00a0 Joseph was only fifteen and his father was his world.<\/p>\n

To put it simply, she wasn\u2019t worth it.<\/p>\n

Rosey licked her lips.\u00a0 Da Chao hadn\u2019t gagged her, which was telling in itself.<\/p>\n

\u201cCould I have some water, please?\u201d she asked, careful to keep her voice meek.<\/p>\n

Both men turned to look at her.\u00a0 Da Chao nodded, but it was Longwei who fulfilled her request.\u00a0 She\u2019d had some dealings with the bully and bouncer when she\u2019d been at The Dragon<\/em> and knew he was not a man to cross.<\/p>\n

When he came toward her with a cup, she asked, \u201cCould you untie my hands so I can drink?\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei looked to Da Chao for the answer.<\/p>\n

Chao nodded.<\/p>\n

Longwei placed the cup on the ground and reached for the ropes on her wrists.\u00a0 \u201cYou are trouble,\u201d he breathed near her ear as he worked them loose.\u00a0 \u201cThis one would leave your body for the rancher to find as a warning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe feeling is mutual,\u201d she said, startling him.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe tongue of a woman is the sword that is never allowed to rust,\u201d he spat back as he completed his task.<\/p>\n

Two could play at that game.<\/p>\n

\u201cA patient woman can roast an ox with a lantern,\u201d she countered with the hint of a smile.<\/p>\n

The bouncer grunted.\u00a0 She wasn\u2019t sure if he was amused or annoyed.\u00a0 \u201cPatience matters little if the tree is made into a boat,\u201d he said, his tone cold.<\/p>\n

In other words, \u2018what\u2019s done is done\u2019.\u00a0 Meaning she couldn\u2019t roast an ox with a lantern if she was dead.<\/p>\n

\u201cPoint taken,\u201d she conceded.<\/p>\n

\u201cLongwei, attend!\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey watched The Dragon\u2019s<\/em> enforcer carefully.\u00a0 His resentment was evident in the way his body tensed at the command.<\/p>\n

Dissention in the ranks, perhaps?<\/p>\n

With another grunt, Longwei rose and walked away \u2013 leaving her hands untied.<\/p>\n

Hmmm….<\/p>\n

Rosey watched the two men as she took a drink of cool water.\u00a0 She\u2019d been their prisoner for nearly four hours now and she\u2019d noticed a growing tension between them.\u00a0 Longwei\u2019s single aim was to find Biyu and make her pay for choosing another man over him.\u00a0 Da Chao seemed almost unconcerned about Biyu.\u00a0 There was something else that was uppermost in his mind.\u00a0 Something he had not revealed, at least not in her presence.<\/p>\n

The older woman frowned.\u00a0 She didn\u2019t know which would be worse for Biyu, being killed, or being made to return to Vallejo with her abuser.<\/p>\n

Rosey glanced at Longwei, who was raging.<\/p>\n

On second thought, yes, she did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned sideways and opened the door with his shoulder, and then proceeded to move into Joe\u2019s room.\u00a0 His brother was sitting up in the bed with his eyes closed.\u00a0 The room was steamy and smelled of mustard and pine \u2013 the result, no doubt, of a mustard plaster.\u00a0 The temperature was a little high for his liking, but then Joe needed every bit of the heat.\u00a0 His baby brother\u2019s chest rose and fell in shuddering, shallow breaths.\u00a0 Doc Martin had named it \u2018pneumonia\u2019, the illness William Osler spoke of as the \u2018captain of the men of death\u2019.\u00a0 The latest findings were that the disease killed nearly four million people a year.\u00a0 It was hardest on the oldest and the youngest.<\/p>\n

And God, Joe was so<\/em> young.<\/p>\n

As he entered the room his brother\u2019s eyes opened and a languid smile played about the corner of his lips.\u00a0 \u201cHey, brother,\u201d he managed without coughing.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s chest was a brilliant crimson, indicating Hop Sing must have just placed the plaster before heading downstairs to serve the noontime meal.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you done cooking yet?\u201d he asked his brother as he placed the tray on the bedside table.<\/p>\n

Joe wrinkled his nose in disgust, then looked down at the oily cloth covering his chest.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThis is…gonna put me off…mustard for life…\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam reached out to place a hand on his brother\u2019s forehead.\u00a0 Joe reared back, trying to shake it off, which told him his little brother was mending.\u00a0 When he was satisfied that Joe\u2019s fever hadn\u2019t risen, he removed it himself and smiled.<\/p>\n

He indicated the tray with a nod.\u00a0 \u201cYou hungry?\u201d<\/p>\n

And got the expected reply.<\/p>\n

\u201cNah.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe had inherited his mother\u2019s frame and constitution.\u00a0 The boy could pack food down when he wanted to and never gain an ounce, but more often that not, he didn\u2019t want to.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on,\u201d he said, picking up the bowl and smelling its contents.\u00a0 Adam smacked his lips with exaggerated anticipation.\u00a0 \u201cYum<\/em>.\u00a0 Hop Sing\u2019s \u2018inscrutable elixir\u2019.\u00a0 Good for all that ails you.\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother snorted at the childhood name they had given their cook\u2019s unknown minced mixture of chicken broth, herbs, and whatever else happened to be laying around the kitchen that was edible.\u00a0 Then he broke into a coughing fit.<\/p>\n

Adam put the bowl down and moved onto the bed to hold him, placing on hand on Joe\u2019s head and another around his chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, buddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother sniffed in the tears, caught a whiff of the mustard, sneezed, and then coughed again and in general looked about as miserable as a person could get.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just can\u2019t eat, Adam.\u201d\u00a0 He drew in a labored breath.\u00a0 \u201cMy sides…hurt too much.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you\u2019ve got to try,\u201d the black-haired man replied, his tone sympathetic.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ve got to keep up your strength.\u201d<\/p>\n

The sick boy slid down a bit and began to curl into himself.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, no….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow about this?\u00a0 You take six or seven spoonfuls for me and I\u2019ll toss the rest in the chamber pot.\u00a0 It\u2019ll be our secret.\u201d\u00a0 That brought his brother\u2019s head up.\u00a0 \u201cPa or Hop Sing…they\u2019re going to make you eat the whole thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe tried not to, but a grin twisted his lips.\u00a0 \u201cWhat\u2019s…old Hop Sing…gonna think when he….\u201d\u00a0 He drew in a gasp.\u00a0 \u201c…smells his elixir in the pot?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked startled.\u00a0 \u201cWhat do you think <\/em>he\u2019s going to think?\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother was holding his sides and shaking.\u00a0 \u201cOh, Adam…stop it.\u00a0 You\u2019re…killin\u2019 me!\u201d<\/p>\n

Suddenly \u2013 unexpectedly \u2013 Adam was overwhelmed with love for the little minx.\u00a0 It choked him for a second.\u00a0 \u201cWell, we certainly wouldn\u2019t want that,\u201d he said quietly.\u00a0 \u201cNow sit up, Joe, and let\u2019s see if we can get a little of this into you.\u201d<\/p>\n

By the time they\u2019d finished Joe was exhausted.\u00a0 The last of the soup had dribbled out of his mouth and he hadn\u2019t even cared.\u00a0 As he wiped his little brother\u2019s chin, Adam counted it as a victory that he\u2019d gotten ten<\/em> spoonfuls into his brother instead of the agreed upon six.\u00a0 As he rose, he pulled the coverlet up to cover Joe\u2019s narrow shoulders.\u00a0 The kid was all skin and bones.\u00a0 It just wasn\u2019t fair.\u00a0 Adam ran a hand over his face and then walked to the window to look out.\u00a0 Someone had said to him once that it seemed that Joe had been born with a little black cloud hanging over his head, just waiting to drop rain.\u00a0 In some ways they were right \u2013 Joe had seen more than his share of sickness and injuries in his short life \u2013 but he guessed a few stormy days were worth it for the bright sunshine and joy his little brother brought to their lives.<\/p>\n

As he started to turn away from the window, Adam halted, his keen gaze pinned to the area in front of the house.\u00a0 There had been a flash of something in the dark.\u00a0 A sense of movement near the barn.\u00a0 He shifted closer to the glass panes and peered out, searching the yard.\u00a0 A second later he was startled when Dan Tollivar stepped out of the shadows.\u00a0 The older man had returned just that morning from the drive for supplies and was anticipating riding back out the next day.\u00a0 He\u2019d come to the house to check on Little Joe a short while back.\u00a0 Adam narrowed his eyes and stared at the shadows near the barn.\u00a0 That must have been it.\u00a0 It was Dan he\u2019d seen or, he supposed, it could have been one of the handful of hands Pa had left to guard the ranch house and the area surrounding it. \u00a0There hadn\u2019t been many to spare since most were on the drive.<\/p>\n

So why were the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end?<\/p>\n

\u201cAd\u2019m….\u201d<\/p>\n

Moving back to the bed, he stared down at his brother for a moment and then reached out and pushed an errant chestnut curl off his forehead.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, buddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

The truth was something he was definitely not<\/em> going to give Joe tonight.\u00a0 \u201cHe had some business in Eagle Station.\u00a0 He\u2019ll be back about the same time as the Doc.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe made a face.\u00a0 \u201cToo bad I can\u2019t…make it downstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam frowned.\u00a0 \u201cWhy\u2019s that?\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother\u2019s smile was languid.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019d…get me an apple…to keep ol\u2019 Doc Martin away….\u201d<\/p>\n

And with that, his little buddy was asleep again.<\/p>\n

Adam stood there a moment watching Joe sleep, and then went to the door. \u00a0His hand on the latch, he turned back to look at the window.\u00a0 With a shake of his head, the black-haired man dismissed whatever he had been thinking and stepped out into the hall and headed down to the great room.<\/p>\n

Missing the fact that, at the end of the hall, a window was opening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright was not a man to beat around the bush.\u00a0 Hoss had warned him not to, and Roy Coffee\u00a0 had practically forbidden it, but, well \u2013 to hell<\/em> with it \u2013 he was about as tired and angry and irritated and frustrated<\/em> as it got!\u00a0 How dare these men bring their tong war to his land?\u00a0 How dare threaten<\/em> his sons?\u00a0 How dare <\/em>they lay a hand on the woman he….<\/p>\n

What exactly?<\/p>\n

The rancher drew in a deep breath as he broke through the covering of the leaves to face a small band of men that included Da Chao and Longwei, as well as several more of Chao\u2019s black-clad henchmen.\u00a0 As their heads turned toward him, he scanned their camp for Rosey and found her, seemingly safe and sound, seated on the ground beneath a tree.\u00a0 Her feet were bound but her hands were free, and she was looking at him like he was out of his mind.<\/p>\n

Maybe he was.<\/p>\n

Hoss and Roy, back where he had left them and told them to stay put, certainly <\/em>thought he was. \u00a0It had only been his friendship with the lawman, and the fact that no real crime had been committed by Da Chao, that had wrung from the acting sheriff a slow promise to wait a half-hour before he moved in.<\/p>\n

Ignoring Da Chao and the half-dozen henchmen, Ben walked over to Rosey and asked her, \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t know what he expected her to say. It certainly wasn\u2019t, \u201cI was until you got here.\u00a0 What do you think you\u2019re doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

At first he was put off \u2013 as she intended \u2013 then he smiled.\u00a0 \u201cGood to see you too.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMister Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2018Here we go\u2019, he thought.\u00a0 The rancher turned to look at Da Chao. \u00a0Having already established his dominance in the situation, he said in his deepest voice \u2013 with an added note of warning.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes?\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao was sizing him up the way one mountain goat did another before establishing their territorial boundaries.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are the great Benjamin Cartwright?\u201d Chao asked.<\/p>\n

Ben looked Da Chao over before answering.\u00a0 The tong leader was a long thin man with a hard face.\u00a0 The lines at the ends of his lips and the edges of his black almond-shaped eyes indicated he was a worrier and \u2013 perhaps \u2013 not entirely comfortable with the situation he found himself in.\u00a0 He\u2019d made no threatening move and had not turned his henchmen loose, which indicated he was willing to talk.<\/p>\n

The large Chinese man in the gray suit beside him was another matter.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Benjamin Cartwright,\u201d he said after a few seconds pause.\u00a0 \u201c\u2018Great\u2019 is not a word I would apply to myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlways the great are humble,\u201d Chao remarked.<\/p>\n

Again, he paused.\u00a0 \u201cAnd is Da Chao a humble man?\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a slight quiver of the end of the man\u2019s lips, just below his thin line of a mustache.\u00a0 \u201cOne must be like bamboo.\u00a0 The higher you grow, the deeper you must learn to bow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at Rosey.\u00a0 The beautiful woman\u2019s lips were pressed together.\u00a0 She was trying hard not to smile.\u00a0 Her eyes told her she knew exactly <\/em>what he was doing.<\/p>\n

The rancher moved toward the other man and offered his hand.\u00a0 \u201cMay we meet as friends and not enemies?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Da Chao took his hand and shook it. \u00a0Then he released it and bowed.\u00a0 \u201cDa Chao greets the honorable Benjamin Cartwright as a friend and asks what it is he desires of this one?\u201d<\/p>\n

He knew the game.\u00a0 He\u2019d been around Hop Sing long enough to know that some of his countrymen used their placid and seemingly complacent nature to hide what they really were.<\/p>\n

A snake waiting to strike.<\/p>\n

\u201cI desire that you bring peace instead of war to the Ponderosa,\u201d he answered firmly.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not this humble one\u2019s desire to make war upon the honorable Benjamin Cartwright.\u201d\u00a0 Da Chao paused, and then struck.\u00a0 \u201cIt is Benjamin Cartwright who has brought war upon himself<\/em> by accepting stolen property.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean Biyu and Dandan?\u201d<\/p>\n

He noted the way the man in the suit bristled at the China girl\u2019s name.<\/p>\n

Da Chao nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cWomen are not property.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn your<\/em> world,\u201d Chao replied, showing the first flicker of anger.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are in my<\/em> world,\u201d Ben countered. \u201cYou are in America where all men and women are free to choose their own paths.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo your people not hold slaves?\u201d the wily tong leader asked.<\/p>\n

He let out a sigh and nodded his head.\u00a0 \u201cSome men do.\u00a0 From all appearances, that is soon to end.\u00a0 However, even though that is so in the South, it is not <\/em>so here in the West.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do your laws not give a man power over the one who is his?\u201d\u00a0 Chao turned to the young man beside him.\u00a0 \u201cMay not Longwei reclaim what is his?\u201d<\/p>\n

This was going to be a big<\/em> one.\u00a0 \u201cFrom what I understand, Biyu is not legally <\/em>Longwei\u2019s wife.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBiyu is mine!\u201d\u00a0 The younger man drew a blade from behind his belt.\u00a0 \u201cI will kill<\/em> this man and his family and take what is mine!\u201d<\/p>\n

One of Ben\u2019s black brows peaked.\u00a0 He drew a breath and then deliberately turned his back to Longwei, ignoring both the man and his outburst.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have already invaded my home and put my sons in danger,\u201d he told Da Chao.\u00a0 \u201cThis is not the act of a friend, but of an enemy.\u00a0 Nevertheless, I would treat Da Chao as a friend.\u00a0 I will go to the town and bring Biyu and Dandan to the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Once there we can negotiate what compensation you would be willing to accept for the loss of your \u2018property\u2019 \u2013 on the promise that no harm come to my sons or,\u201d he glanced at Rosey who was scowling at him, \u201cor anyone else I care for.\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei bristled.\u00a0 \u201cWe do not accept \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao held his hand up, silencing his hasty nephew without a word.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAnd what promise does the great Benjamin Cartwright offer this humble one in return?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is my promise that neither I nor any of my family will lift a hand against yours \u2013 so long as the bargain is kept.\u201d\u00a0 His eyes went to the half-dozen silent men who ringed them.\u00a0 He wondered how many were in Longwei\u2019s camp.\u00a0 \u201cOne of my older sons is waiting just beyond the trees with the sheriff from the settlement.\u00a0 I will inform him of our agreement.\u00a0 As you can see, I have already kept you from harm.\u201d\u00a0 The silver-haired man\u2019s eyes flicked to Longwei who was a powder-keg awaiting the spark. \u00a0\u201cI expect you to do the same.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao considered it.\u00a0 For several long<\/em> heartbeats he considered it.<\/p>\n

Then he nodded his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was restless.\u00a0 He\u2019d awakened bathed in sweat and knew it meant his fever had broken.\u00a0 At last!<\/em>\u00a0 Now he felt hungry \u2013 and for something more than Hop Sing\u2019s inscrutable<\/em> elixir.\u00a0 He knew he\u2019d be in trouble for getting out of bed. \u00a0The fact was, when he did, he\u2019d had to balance himself for a whole minute until the world stopped turning like a top.\u00a0 Still he knew, one winsome look and his pa would melt \u2013 and he couldn\u2019t very well give him the belt when he\u2019d just come back from death\u2019s door.<\/p>\n

Now could he?<\/p>\n

Bare-footed and wearing his striped nightshirt Joe walked to the door, using just about every piece of furniture he had in his room as a prop to get him there.\u00a0 He paused at the door to listen.\u00a0 Everything seemed quiet.\u00a0 Opening it a bit, he listened again and stepped out into the hall.<\/p>\n

Again, silence.<\/p>\n

It was just past noon and the house was completely <\/em>silent.\u00a0 There were no sounds of anyone stirring, no banging of pans in the kitchen; no Hop Sing hollerin\u2019.<\/p>\n

Something was wrong.<\/p>\n

Joe hesitated a moment and then went to his father\u2019s bedroom.\u00a0 Quietly, so as not to let anyone know he was up, he rummaged in the drawer at the bottom of Pa\u2019s bureau for the gun he knew his father kept there.\u00a0 After shifting aside a few of his pa\u2019s extra shirts, he found the bullets and loaded the firearm.\u00a0 Padding softly on his bare feet, Joe returned to the door, opened it and looked out, and then stepped into the hall and headed for the landing.\u00a0 Once there, he hugged the shadows at the top as he looked around the corner.<\/p>\n

And found Adam sitting in the blue chair before the fire with a knife blade under his chin.<\/p>\n

The man who held it was Chinese and….<\/p>\n

Familiar.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will come down now or your brother will suffer the consequences, young tiger cub,\u201d the man said without even looking his way.<\/p>\n

Joe looked at the gun in his hand.\u00a0 Seeing as how he was in his night shirt, he had nowhere to hide it.\u00a0 Taking a moment, he tucked it behind the vase on the table behind him and then slowly descended the stairs.\u00a0 Once he got to the bottom, he went over to where the two men were. \u00a0Adam\u2019s eyes pleaded with him.\u00a0 His brother couldn\u2019t speak.<\/p>\n

The tip of the curved knife was lodged firmly under his chin.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are wise,\u201d the man said.<\/p>\n

Joe struggled to remember his name.\u00a0 It was the same man who had taken him and held him hostage.\u00a0 Pa told him names gave a man power over someone and he sure needed whatever power he could get right now.\u00a0 As he fought against a leaden fatigue that threatened to put him on his bottom on the floor, he wondered where Hop Sing and Ming-hua were. \u00a0Then he let that go.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t matter.\u00a0 All that mattered right now was Adam and that shiny sharp knife at his throat.<\/p>\n

The Chinese man didn\u2019t move, but he spoke. \u00a0\u201cThe others in your household are not hurt.\u00a0 They are locked in the building behind your home where your meat is smoked.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019d you get in?\u201d Joe asked, and then thought what a stupid question that was.\u00a0 Why did it matter?<\/p>\n

\u201cA house has many windows that a shadow may enter therein.\u201d<\/p>\n

A shadow.\u00a0 Joe swallowed over his fear.\u00a0 That\u2019s what they were all right \u2013 these black-clad Chinese men \u2013 shadows, like the ones he saw in his nightmares.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

The knife went tighter, silencing his brother.\u00a0 Joe met Adam\u2019s frightened gaze and held it.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s okay, Adam,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cJust…keep quiet.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are brave, young one.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe shivered.\u00a0 \u201cOh, I don\u2019t know about that.\u00a0 I….\u201d\u00a0 He drew in a shallow breath and stifled a cough.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t know that I got…all that much to lose.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t…grown yet.\u00a0 Don\u2019t have a girl.\u201d\u00a0 He shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cSomethin\u2019 happens to me…the world\u2019ll go on.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese man held his gaze.\u00a0 \u201cYou know why I am here.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded his curly head.\u00a0 \u201cTo take me.\u00a0 You got…interrupted the other time.\u201d\u00a0 Joe puzzled a moment. \u00a0\u201cJian, ain\u2019t it?\u00a0 Your name, I mean?\u201d\u00a0 When the men nodded, he asked, \u201cWhat\u2019s it mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

The man\u2019s dark eyes narrowed.\u00a0 \u201cProsperity.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe wobbled a bit.\u00a0 He caught hold of the end of the settee to steady himself.\u00a0 \u201cYou mean, like happiness?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was watching him closely, wondering if he had something up his sleeve.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t, other than maybe keeping the man here a little bit longer just in case Pa had turned around and came in the door.\u00a0\u00a0 He\u2019d remembered another thing Pa\u2019d taught him.\u00a0 Get them to call you by your name.\u00a0 Make whoever has taken you acknowledge that you are a human being and you have a life of your own.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know the meaning of my name?\u00a0 Of Joseph?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Jian shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s kind of funny.\u00a0 You and me, we\u2019re about the same. It means \u2018May Jehovah\u2019 \u2013 that\u2019s our name for the God of Abraham \u2013 \u2018give increase\u2019.\u201d\u00a0 Joe\u2019s smile was pale.\u00a0 \u201cProsperity.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam cleared his throat.\u00a0 Joe tensed, but Jian actually released the blade a bit so his brother could speak.\u00a0 \u201cPlease,\u201d Adam said. \u201cThe boy is sick.\u00a0 You can see it.\u00a0 Take me if you want a hostage.\u00a0 I\u2019ll go willingly.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese man met Adam\u2019s gaze.\u00a0 \u201cI know you would, but it cannot be.\u00a0 Jian\u2019s honor demands he bring this one to Zhuang as ordered.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs your honor worth the life of a child?\u201d Adam countered quickly, before the blade could go back in place.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019ll die <\/em>if you take him out into the cold.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe stiffened as the Jian turned toward him.\u00a0 \u201cNot if the God of Abraham grants him increase.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you can\u2019t \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t get to finish his sentence.\u00a0 He\u2019d started to come up out of his chair and in one swift movement, Jian had flipped his blade and brought the metal pommel down on the side of Adam\u2019s head.\u00a0 His brother fell like a sack of stones to the floor.<\/p>\n

Joe looked up from the bleeding gash on his brother\u2019s temple to the man.\u00a0 Tears streaked eyes.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou didn\u2019t have to do that!\u00a0 I was…gonna go with…you.\u201d\u00a0 Joe sucked in air and held it, forbidding the cough that was rising up within him. \u00a0\u201cI thought you said you…were…a man of honor!\u00a0 You promised me! Remember, you said, \u2018So far as it is in Jian\u2019s power, I promise the others in your family will remain safe.<\/em>\u2019 \u00a0Don\u2019t you remember?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo I did, tiger cub,\u201d the man admitted softly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen you just take me and…get out of here and leave…my family alone!\u201d he snapped as tears entered his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cAnd let Hop Sing out…of the smoke house so he can help Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian\u2019s lips didn\u2019t smile, but his eyes did.\u00a0 \u201cYes, tiger cub.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe scowled.\u00a0 \u201cWho you callin\u2019 a cub?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese man moved so swiftly he didn\u2019t even see it.\u00a0 He had him tossed over his shoulder in an instant; his feet and hands held securely in his own.<\/p>\n

\u201cAge is foolish and forgetful when it underestimates youth,\u201d Jian said as he headed for the door.\u00a0 \u201cCome, we will travel together.<\/p>\n

\u201cTiger son<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

TWELVE<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, dang it! \u00a0Adam, come on.\u00a0 Wake up!\u201d<\/p>\n

One hazel eye opened as someone slapped his face and he heard words that sounded something like ..aah….dem…dem…mon…break up<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\u201cWh…what?\u201d he groaned.\u00a0 \u201cBreak up…what?\u201d<\/p>\n

Large hands took hold of his shoulders and shook him gently.\u00a0 It was only then he became aware of the fact that he was no longer on the floor and someone had propped him up against Pa\u2019s red leather chair. From the mountain of a man blocking the light that spilled in the open door, he assumed it had been his middle brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s thick fingers probed the edge of his hairline near his sideburn as the big man said, \u201cYou sure got you some cut there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat Chinese man….Jian….he hit me before he….\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s stomach plummeted to his toes. \u00a0He swallowed over bile. \u00a0\u201cBefore he took Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss rocked back on his heels.\u00a0 \u201cHuh?\u00a0 You mean little brother ain\u2019t upstairs in bed asleep like he\u2019s s\u2019posed to be?\u201d The big man looked back toward the door.\u00a0 \u201cI wondered where that hand was Pa left to watch the house.\u00a0 So, someone took him out?\u201d<\/p>\n

As Adam nodded \u2013 and regretted it \u2013 a strident voice announced from the porch outside.\u00a0 \u201cYou Cartwrights, if it isn\u2019t one of you it\u2019s the other!\u00a0 I\u2019m going to have to petition Roy Coffee to lock you all away for a fortnight just so I can get some rest!\u201d\u00a0 Even as he growled, Paul Martin stepped into the house and made his way into the great room.\u00a0 As he knelt beside him, the physician\u2019s hand reached out to check his wound.\u00a0 The older man asked Hoss as he worked, \u201cDid I hear him right?\u00a0 Joseph\u2019s gone…again?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEr, I\u2019m right here, Paul,\u201d Adam groused.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and with that knock on the head you took, you could be seeing pink elephants flying through the air for all I know!\u201d\u00a0 Paul touched the end of the cut near the middle of his head and nodded as he sucked in air.\u00a0 \u201cSee?\u00a0 That\u2019s what I thought.\u00a0 It\u2019s pretty deep, Adam, and it\u2019s still bleeding.\u201d\u00a0 As Eagle Station\u2019s doctor rose to his feet, he added, \u201cCome on, Hoss, we need to get your brother to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

He was having none of that!<\/p>\n

He looked at Hoss.\u00a0 \u201cThe hand Pa left outside?\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t there.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t checked on the one out back yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I must insist!\u201d the doctor said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u00a0 No, Paul, you don\u2019t understand!\u201d he shouted as he rose to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe\u2019s been kidnapped!\u00a0 We have to go after him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure someone will, but it\u2019s not going to be you!\u201d Paul admonished him.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut he\u2019s just a boy,\u201d Adam whimpered as he took hold of the back of a chair.\u00a0 The moment he\u2019d climbed to his feet, the world had begun to spin.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he is.\u00a0 And Joe\u2019s a very sick<\/em> boy,\u201d Paul added somewhat unnecessarily, which only succeeded in driving his sense of failure deeper as he dropped into the chair.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa left me in charge of Joe and I have to \u2013 ouch!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Paul Martin had a bottle of alcohol in his hand \u2013 the contents of which he had just liberally used to douse his head wound. \u00a0\u201cThat\u2019s what you get for arguing with your favorite family physician.\u00a0 If you won\u2019t go up to bed, Adam, will you at least stay put until I get this dressed?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam scowled, but did as he was ordered.\u00a0\u00a0 As he endured the doctor\u2019s ministrations, his gaze went to his giant of a brother who hovered close by.\u00a0 He remembered suddenly that Hoss and their father had left together with Roy Coffee to go look for Rosey O\u2019Rourke.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head and whistled.\u00a0 \u201cWhoo-ee, I\u2019m tellin\u2019 you, Adam.\u00a0 You better be glad Pa ain\u2019t<\/em> here.\u00a0 When Pa finds out about Little Joe\u2019s goin\u2019 missin\u2019 again, the roof\u2019s gonna blow right off of this here house!\u201d<\/p>\n

True as that was, it did nothing to address his question.\u00a0 \u201cHoss, I know you.\u00a0 What aren\u2019t<\/em> you telling me?\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother squirmed.\u00a0 \u201cYou ain\u2019t gonna like it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere hasn\u2019t been much of anything I\u2019ve liked <\/em>since Dandan and Biyu crossed our threshold.\u00a0 Now what is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFunny you should mention them.\u00a0 Pa\u2019s goin\u2019 to the settlement to get them and bring them back here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s brows peaked toward his battered brow as Paul Martin began to wind a fresh linen strip around it.\u00a0 \u201cWhatever for?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCause of that bad man what\u2019s got hold of Miss Rosey.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood lord!\u00a0 Not Zhuang?!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no.\u00a0 It\u2019s that other one.\u00a0 That chow<\/em> feller.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss scowled.\u00a0 \u201cPa and him, well, they sort of came to an agreement.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere.\u201d\u00a0 Doctor Martin said as he finished.\u00a0 \u201cNow, is there anyone else in this house in lieu of your youngest brother who needs looking after?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam started to reply \u2018no\u2019, but then he realized something.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t seen John Randolph since breakfast \u2013 even through the whole incident with Joe.\u00a0 \u201cPaul, will you go look in on John?\u00a0 He\u2019s in the guest bedroom upstairs.\u00a0 He was still having some trouble with that knife wound last night.\u00a0 I hope he\u2019s all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d\u00a0 The older man headed toward the stair.\u00a0 He paused at the bottom.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re sure Joseph is gone?\u00a0 It\u2019s not just a delusion from the blow to the head you took?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam nodded mournfully.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s gone.\u00a0 I came to just long enough to see Chao\u2019s man carry Joe out the door.\u00a0 If the hand was gone, there was no one to stop them.\u201d<\/p>\n

The physician hesitated, then said, \u201cA pity that.\u00a0 That boy should be in bed.\u00a0 If he doesn\u2019t stay warm and dry, we\u2019re going to be back to square one with him.\u201d\u00a0 Paul met his troubled gaze.\u00a0 \u201cMaybe even further<\/em> back than that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGreat.\u00a0 Just great,\u201d Adam sniped as the older man mounted the stairs and disappeared into the upstairs hall.<\/p>\n

Hoss was watching him too.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m goin\u2019 to find out what happened to that hand and then head out after Joe,\u201d he announced.<\/p>\n

The big man was already on the move.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s there to wait for?\u201d he asked as he swung back.\u00a0 \u201cThat dang Chinaman\u2019s got hold of our little brother!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you just rush in you could, well, cause Joe to get hurt worse.\u00a0 We need some kind of a plan.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam glanced up the stairs and then placed a finger to his lips.\u00a0 \u201cShh.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe men with Da Chao are highly trained, Hoss, and well, frankly, some of them are probably trained as assassins.\u00a0 We were foolish to think anything short of an army could stop them.\u00a0 And while you\u2019re in fine fettle,\u201d he scowled as he tapped his head, \u201csome of us are a little under par.\u00a0 We need to think this through.\u00a0 Charging in and using brute force is probably not<\/em> going to win the day.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just worried about that little squirt,\u201d Hoss moaned.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I am too.\u201d\u00a0 Adam paused.\u00a0 \u201cBut I think that little \u2018squirt\u2019 is stronger than either of us give him credit for.\u00a0 Look at all he\u2019s survived.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 grin was affectionate.\u00a0 \u201cLittle brother\u2019s a tough one, that\u2019s for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

As Adam nodded his agreement, he saw again the look on Joe\u2019s face as he was being toted out of the house tossed over Jian\u2019s shoulder like a sack of grain.\u00a0 Tough, yes, but Little Joe was still a kid and he was scared.<\/p>\n

\u2018Hang on Joe<\/em>,\u2019 he thought as he put his head together with his middle brother and began to scheme.<\/p>\n

Hang on, brother, we\u2019re coming.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was seated in front of Jian on the powerful black horse the Chinese man rode.\u00a0 Jian had one arm locked firmly around his chest and was guiding the beautiful animal with only his legs and a subtle touch now and then on the reins with his free hand.\u00a0 He admired the man\u2019s skill, but that was about all he admired about him.\u00a0 Something was bothering him and he had just about made up his mind to ask Jian about it.\u00a0 The only thing that stopped him was what he\u2019d seen back in the clearing when he\u2019d been taken the first time.\u00a0 This man, ordinary as he seemed now, was a weapon in himself.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t need that knife he carried or any gun.\u00a0 Hop Sing had told him about men like him when he was little, mostly to scare the living daylights out of him and get him to obey \u2013 kind of like they were the boogey man.\u00a0 He was pretty sure Jian was what their cook called a boo how doy; <\/em>a warrior or hired killer working for Khu Zhuang.<\/p>\n

And that was what puzzled him.<\/p>\n

Drawing a shallow breath, he said, \u201cCan I ask you something?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese man hesitated only a second.\u00a0 \u201cYou may.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa left a couple of men outside the house.\u201d\u00a0 Joe paused.\u00a0 \u201cDid you kill them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 I overpowered them.\u201d<\/p>\n

He blew out a sigh of relief.\u00a0 \u201cWhat about that other Chinese man back in the forest where you took me the first time?\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a silence this time.\u00a0 \u201cYes, he is dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe glanced back.\u00a0 \u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe wanted you <\/em>dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyes wide, Joe said, \u201cOh,\u201d and turned around.<\/p>\n

They rode a bit further as he considered what he\u2019d been told.\u00a0 Those two questions weren\u2019t the ones he\u2019d wanted to ask, but it had been bothering him about the hands.\u00a0 Joe pursed his lips and sighed.<\/p>\n

Where to start?<\/p>\n

\u201cYou got a family, mister?\u201d<\/p>\n

The question seemed to surprise his captor.\u00a0 \u201cYes. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou got any boys, you know, like me?\u201d<\/p>\n

There was another pause.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u00a0 One very much like you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, I bet you\u2019re like my Pa.\u00a0 You teach him…about what\u2019s right and wrong.\u00a0 Right?\u201d<\/p>\n

The steady clop of the horse\u2019s hooves was heard for several seconds.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, my pa, well, he\u2019s…taught me about honor.\u201d\u00a0 Joe swallowed a cough. \u00a0\u201cPa said, \u2018Reputation is what other people know about you and honor is what you know about yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA wise man, your father.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe smiled in spite of everything.\u00a0 \u201cHe sure is.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what is it you wish to know from me?\u201d Jian asked.<\/p>\n

He hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cAsk.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you told Adam that your…honor bound you to take…me to Khu Zhuang.\u00a0 How can….\u201d\u00a0 He swallowed over his dread and another cough.\u00a0 \u201cHow can…kidnapping someone be honorable?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian was silent for some time.\u00a0 Just about the time Joe figured he\u2019d made him mad, the warrior replied, \u201cYou are too young to understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you try me!\u201d he snapped and then regretted it.\u00a0 \u201cSorry,\u201d he mumbled.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s just…well….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGo on.\u201d\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe let out a sigh.\u00a0 \u201cI kind of like you, and I…don\u2019t understand…\u201d\u00a0 He drew a ragged breath.\u00a0 \u201c…why you want to work for a man…who would make you do…well…what you do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian was silent for a long time \u2013 so long Joe thought he wouldn\u2019t answer.\u00a0 When he did, it was with a question of his own.\u00a0 \u201cIf your father asks something of you, you do it, do you not?\u00a0 Without question?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe snorted.\u00a0 \u201cNot according to Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man behind him chuckled silently.\u00a0 He could feel it in the movement of his chest.\u00a0 \u201cKhu Zhuang, in a way, is my father.\u00a0 He has given me a command.\u00a0 I must obey.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut what if what your…father tells you to do is…well…wrong?\u201d<\/em> Joe countered.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes tiger father not know better than tiger son, for he has lived many long years?\u201d the man asked, his tone surprisingly gentle.<\/p>\n

Joe mulled that over as they continued to jog forward.\u00a0 \u201cBut you see, that\u2019s what I don\u2019t understand.\u201d\u00a0 Joe drew a breath and held it a second.\u00a0 They were getting harder to take without coughing.\u00a0 \u201cMy Pa wouldn\u2019t order me to do…anything wrong.\u00a0 Your father…does.\u201d\u00a0 He thought a moment and then added, though he knew he might pay for it.\u00a0 \u201cKidnapping is…wrong.\u00a0 How can doing something wrong…be honorable?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ask too many questions.\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy hung his head.\u00a0 They jogged a bit more before he found the courage to say one more thing.\u00a0 \u201cYou know what else…Pa told me about honor?\u201d<\/p>\n

He sensed more than heard the man\u2019s sigh.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe said, \u2018Son, honor is what no…man can give you.\u00a0 Honor…is a man\u2019s gift to himself.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian was silent again for several heartbeats.\u00a0 \u201cDo you know what my father told me \u2013 my true<\/em> father?\u201d the warrior asked softly.<\/p>\n

Joe pivoted to look at the man.\u00a0 \u201cNo, what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe wounds of honor are self-inflicted.\u201d\u00a0 Jian\u2019s grip tightened on his chest.\u00a0 \u201cNow it is time to be silent, tiger son.\u00a0 Soon we will reach our destination and you will need both your honor and courage to face what lies ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

After freeing Ming-hua and Hop Sing from the smoke house, he and Hoss had moved to their father\u2019s desk and begun studying a map of the area. They were trying to figure out the best place for Zhuang to have made headquarters between the house and the settlement based on the tracking Hoss had done earlier.\u00a0 Both of their heads came up and turned toward the stair when they heard Doc Martin call.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes?\u201d Adam replied moving forward.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no one upstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a second.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u00a0 John\u2019s not in his room?\u201d<\/p>\n

The doctor was starting down the stairs.\u00a0 \u201cNo, and some of his things are gone as well.\u00a0 Do you think he snuck out during the night?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere do you think that Englishman done gone, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t think.\u00a0 He knew.\u00a0 John was a man in love.\u00a0 He was also feeling responsible for bringing two opposing Chinese tong factions to the Ponderosa and placing them dead center of a war.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gone after Biyu.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss snapped his fingers.\u00a0 \u201cDang!\u00a0 We should\u2019ve expected that!\u201d<\/p>\n

They should have indeed.\u00a0 Adam considered all the ramifications of the Englishman\u2019s action in his mind for a moment.<\/p>\n

It made it hurt even worse than the blow he had taken to his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re looking rather pale, Adam.\u00a0 Perhaps you should sit down,\u201d the doctor said in a concerned voice.<\/p>\n

He looked at him and noted how the doctor\u2019s form seemed to be wavering before his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you\u2019re right.\u201d<\/p>\n

Working his way over to the hearth area, Adam took a seat in the blue chair.\u00a0 He sent Hoss to get Hop Sing and Ming-hua and then signaled the doctor over.\u00a0 After giving the trio time to make it back \u2013 and his stomach a moment to settle \u2013 he said, \u201cThis concerns all of us, so I think we all need to know what\u2019s going on so we can make a decision together.\u201d\u00a0 He eyed the Chinese girl.\u00a0 She was pale. \u00a0Hop Sing had placed a hand on her arm as if to steady her.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo here\u2019s where we are,\u201d he began. \u201cPa and Roy are on their way to Eagle Station to get Dandan and Biyu and bring them back here…as I understand it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u201cThat\u2019s right.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid Da Chao and Longwei go with them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure enough did,\u201d the big man said, \u201cthough they ain\u2019t goin\u2019 into town, they\u2019re waitin\u2019 at the edge of it with Miss Rosey for Pa to come back with them two Chinese gals.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Pa is probably near or in Eagle Station, Da Chao and Longwei are on the edge of it with Rosey, and John Randolph is headed to the settlement without knowing either of those things.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat doesn\u2019t sound good,\u201d Paul remarked, which was something of an understatement.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomewhere in-between \u2013 on Ponderosa land \u2013 is Da Chao\u2019s rival, Khu Zhuang.\u00a0 His man Jian has just…kidnapped Joe.\u201d\u00a0 Adam paused, thinking of his baby brother out there in the middle of all this.\u00a0 \u201cJian is taking Joe to the tong leader because Zhuang intends to use him as some kind of leverage against Pa \u2013 probably to get him to turn Da Chao over to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about John?\u201d his brother asked.\u00a0 \u201cCould it have somethin\u2019 to do with him?\u00a0 You remember, Adam?\u00a0 He said he took somethin\u2019 from that Zhuang feller than made him hoppin\u2019 mad.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Khu Zhuang wants John too.\u00a0 But I think Da Chao takes precedence in Zhuang\u2019s mind.\u00a0 After all, he wouldn\u2019t have come all the way from California just to chase down a man who stole a bauble from him.\u201d\u00a0 Adam hesitated.\u00a0 \u201cWould he?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt depend on what \u2018bauble\u2019 is,\u201d Hop Sing injected.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow so, Hop Sing?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cChinese honor ancestors with objects of importance.\u00a0 This way, we remember wisdom of those who have passed.\u201d\u00a0 Their cook frowned.\u00a0 \u201cSome, mostly warriors, believe objects become<\/em> ancestors and give them power.\u00a0 Idea not right.\u00a0 Comes from long ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFeudal times, you mean?\u201d Adam asked.\u00a0 He thought he recalled reading something about several ancient cultures who had cults with such beliefs.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing nodded.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIf Mister John take such<\/em> an object….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one\u2019s sister has the stone,\u201d Ming-hua said, her voice small, but making a big impact.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Adam demanded as they all turned toward her.<\/p>\n

\u201cBiyu not sell stone as Mister John wants.\u201d\u00a0 The girl frowned. \u00a0\u201cMing-hua\u2019s sister know it bring trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo she has it with her in Eagle Station?\u201d he asked as he rose to his feet, not missing how Doc Martin watched his every move as if he expected him to collapse at any minute.<\/p>\n

Ming-hua hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cGirl like daughter to Hop Sing,\u201d the man from China said.\u00a0 \u201cGood daughter speak truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a moment, but finally she nodded.\u00a0 \u201cStone is here on Ponderosa.\u00a0 Biyu ask Ming-hua to hide it so she not know where it is, in case….\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam felt like sitting down again.\u00a0 Miracles did<\/em> happen.\u00a0 This just might be the bargaining chip that would win his little brother\u2019s freedom and perhaps rid them of Khu Zhuang and his threat.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is it?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cMistah Joe show Ming-hua cabin one day, high on hill.\u00a0 Said man from…Kentuck lived there once?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam nodded.\u00a0 He knew the place and knew of his little brother\u2019s fascination with it.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlace stone under loose floorboard in bedroom.\u201d<\/p>\n

The cabin wasn\u2019t all that far away.\u00a0 They could get there and be on their way back before dark, and maybe have Joe home by morning.\u00a0 With a nod, Adam headed for the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just where do you think you are going, young man?\u201d Paul Martin asked.<\/p>\n

Adam winced as he anchored his hat on his bandaged head.\u00a0 \u201cLook Doc, I don\u2019t have time to worry about myself.\u00a0 The man who has Joe is a killer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSend your brother then, son.\u00a0 Give yourself time to rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll should go,\u201d Hop Sing said.\u00a0 \u201cKhu Zhuang have many bad men with him.\u00a0 Some watch house.\u00a0 Mister Adam not safe alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam snorted.\u00a0 His head must be completely muddled.\u00a0 What was he thinking?\u00a0 Of course, there would be men watching the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, someone should stay here in case Joe gets away and comes home.\u00a0 Are you willing…?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese man was not happy, but nodded.\u00a0 \u201cHop Sing stay.\u00a0 He find missing men and then keep watch for number three son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Hop Sing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go with you,\u201d Paul said, catching his bag from the table.\u00a0 \u201cAfter all, it\u2019s a sure bet that some<\/em> Cartwright is bound to need my services before the day is over.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam wanted to protest.<\/p>\n

But he knew Paul was right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shortly before they would have reached Khu Zhuang\u2019s camp, Jian stopped the horse and made Joe get off.\u00a0 He let him do his business in the woods and then left him free to eat the light meal he had prepared for the two of them while he tended his mount.\u00a0 Joe thought about running, but figured it was pointless.\u00a0 He was having trouble drawing a deep breath and running would just make the tightness in his chest worse.\u00a0 Besides, he was so weak Jian would have had him before he could take ten steps.\u00a0 No, if he was gonna get out of this, it was gonna have to be later when, in the midst of Zhuang\u2019s camp he might get overlooked or forgotten for a minute and could slip away, or, better yet, when someone came to get him.<\/p>\n

He sure hoped someone was on their way to get him.<\/p>\n

A sound drew his attention to the present and Joe looked up to find the Chinese warrior standing over him.\u00a0 Indicating his nearly full plate, Jian said, \u201cBoy not eat much.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cBoy not hungry much.\u201d<\/p>\n

The warrior sat on his haunches before him and reached out to touch his forehead.\u00a0 As Joe jerked his head back, he remarked, \u201cTiger son has fever.\u201d<\/p>\n

He wasn\u2019t feeling too good and his answer reflected it. \u201cYeah, well, that\u2019s what you…get when you kidnap a boy<\/em>…with pneumonia.\u201d\u00a0 He coughed and after listening to the rattle in his chest, snarled, \u201cI may just go and..die before you get me to that man who owns you!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will not talk like this to Zhuang.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe scowled.\u00a0 \u201cWho\u2019s gonna stop me \u2013 you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian stared at him a moment, his dark eyes narrowed.\u00a0 Then he nodded.<\/p>\n

A tremble of fear ran through him.\u00a0 Joe sucked in a breath, coughed, and then said meekly, \u201cLook, I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 I feel like, well, the muck in the stall.\u201d\u00a0 He sighed and leaned his head back against the tree that propped his back and gave the man who, so far, had been as kind to him as he could a wan smile.\u00a0 \u201cMy pa says when I\u2019m tired or hungry my brain kind of…disconnects from my mouth.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man from China reached out again, this time to place a hand on his chest.\u00a0 He remained that way with his eyes closed for several heartbeats and then removed the hand and looked at him.<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s voice cracked as he asked, \u201cIt\u2019s bad, ain\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian continued to regard him, a strange look on his face and then he announced, \u201cI will take you back to your brothers.\u201d<\/p>\n

He blinked, confused.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo not question me!\u201d the warrior snarled as he rose to his feet.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t mean to.\u00a0 It\u2019s just….\u201d<\/p>\n

The man turned his obsidian eyes on him.\u00a0 \u201cJust what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI mean…ain\u2019t you gonna get….\u201d\u00a0 Joe paused to cough and then began to work his way to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cAren\u2019t you gonna be in…trouble if you…go back without me?\u00a0 What\u2019ll…Zhuang do to you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian stared at him for several heartbeats before asked, \u201cWhy do you care, tiger son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know<\/em> why.\u00a0 Unless, well, I guess…like I said, I sort of like you.\u201d\u00a0 Joe shrugged and then regretted it when the gesture left him dizzy.\u00a0 He closed his eyes, seeking balance, and then opened them again to find two<\/em> of Jian staring at him.\u00a0 \u201cIt don\u2019t make sense, I know.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese warrior was shaking his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Joe demanded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI must meet tiger father of tiger son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019ll whup you for takin\u2019 me,\u201d he countered, a little of the normal fire returning to his tone.<\/p>\n

Jian did something then that took him completely by surprise.<\/p>\n

He laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome.\u00a0 I will take you to your home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Relief flooded through Joe and made him weak in the knees.\u00a0 Jian caught him as he staggered and lifted him up in his strong arms.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s eyes closed as his head sunk against the man\u2019s chest and would have stayed that way had it not been for the fact that someone spoke, bringing him wide<\/em> awake.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe who knows when he can fight and when he cannot will emerge victorious,\u201d a severe voice remarked as Joe heard a sword withdrawn from its sheath.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet us hope this day, Jian, you choose victory.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright was not happy with the answer to his knock at Beth Riley\u2019s door.\u00a0 The blonde woman opened it, saw him, drew in a breath, and instantly started talking and had continued talking as he made his way inside. \u00a0If he hadn\u2019t been so tired, he would have been amused.\u00a0 It \u00a0reminded him of the time he had come home late to find Marie in a similar state and it had taken him ten minutes \u2013 ten<\/em> precious minutes that might have meant life or death for their son \u2013 to calm his wife down enough to find out that Joseph had<\/em> gone missing.<\/p>\n

Ben took the older woman\u2019s shoulders in his hands.\u00a0 He gripped them tightly as he said, \u201cBeth.\u00a0 Beth, calm down!\u201d<\/p>\n

He must have used his stern \u2018pa\u2019 voice without meaning to because the blonde woman blanched, went wide-eyed, and fell silent instantly.<\/p>\n

The rancher closed his eyes and let out a little sigh. \u201cForgive me, Beth,\u201d he began.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s just there is no time to lose and \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s gone!\u201d she declared, suddenly finding her voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s gone?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBiyu!\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a moment.\u00a0 \u201cNot Dandan?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Beth shook her head so her blonde curls bounced on her shoulders.\u00a0 \u201cNo, just the one.\u00a0 Dandan\u2019s in the back.\u00a0 I went to check on them this morning and Biyu was gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked toward the room.\u00a0 \u201cAnd her sister\u2019s not talking?\u201d<\/p>\n

Tears filled her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cNo, but she\u2019s very upset.\u201d<\/p>\n

Not a surprise there.<\/p>\n

The rancher continued to gaze at the partially closed door.\u00a0 \u201cIs it all right if I go in and speak to her?\u00a0 Maybe I can get Dandan to tell me where they were headed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood luck,\u201d Beth replied with a shake of her head.\u00a0 \u201cShe\u2019s not talking.\u00a0 I already tried.\u201d<\/p>\n

He hesitated to tell the shopkeeper why it was so important he know.\u00a0 Beth was already quite distressed and he knew she was friends with Rosey.\u00a0 \u201cSay,\u201d he asked, \u201ccould you fix me a cup of coffee?\u00a0 And maybe you have a piece of last night\u2019s pie?\u00a0 I rode straight from the Ponderosa and \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh!\u201d she exclaimed, looking extremely relieved.\u00a0 \u201cI can do that!\u00a0 You just get done what you have to do and I\u2019ll have it waiting.\u201d<\/p>\n

He knew from experience that nothing took the fluster out of a woman like asking her to provide comfort to a man.\u00a0 With a small smile on his lips, Ben moved to the door of the back room and knocked gently.<\/p>\n

\u201cDandan?\u00a0 It\u2019s Ben Cartwright.\u00a0 May I come in?\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a moment\u2019s hesitation and then, \u201cEnter.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan was standing beside the window.\u00a0 Before he could open his mouth, she turned toward him and said, \u201cThis one will tell you nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben paused a moment and then said, \u201cWell, I have something to tell you. \u00a0I was sent here by Da Chao to bring you and your sister to the Ponderosa so we could all talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

She seemed to puzzle that through.\u00a0 Then Dandan said, her tone vehement, \u201cLongwei does not desire to talk to my sister!\u00a0 He will kill \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

Ben held his hand up, calling for silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I don\u2019t come back with you and Biyu, he has threatened to kill Rosey.\u201d<\/p>\n

He saw his words register; heard her gasp.<\/p>\n

\u2018Noooo,\u201d the Chinese woman moaned as she dropped onto the bed and placed her head in her hands.<\/p>\n

Ben went to sit beside her.\u00a0 As he did, he dared to lay a comforting hand on her shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cWhere has Biyu gone, Dandan?\u201d he asked.\u00a0 When she hesitated still to answer, a thought came to him \u2013 from where he didn\u2019t know.\u00a0 Most likely either experience or from his God.\u00a0 \u201cDid John come for her?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Chinese woman sniffed in her tears and looked at him. \u00a0She nodded.<\/p>\n

That <\/em>definitely put a different spin on things.\u00a0 \u201cDo you know where they were going?\u201d<\/p>\n

Dandan nodded again.\u00a0 \u201cTo your land.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re not running away?\u201d he asked, confused.\u00a0 He had assumed they would be headed to a port city.\u00a0 \u201cWhy would they go back to the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Again, the Chinese woman considered her words.\u00a0 At last, it seemed she decide to trust him.\u00a0 \u201cYou know of the jade object John Randolph stole from Khu Zhuang?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBiyu did not sell it as John asked.\u00a0 My sister did not want Zhuang to control them.\u00a0 Ming-hua has hidden it on your land.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know where it is?\u201d he asked, astonished.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 Nor does Biyu.\u00a0 My sister and John Randolph return to your house to ask our sister where it is, so it may be restored.\u201d\u00a0 Dandan paused.\u00a0 \u201cIt is their hope that its return will satisfy Zhuang.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben remained silent.\u00a0 From what Da Chao had said, nothing<\/em> would satisfy Khu Zhuang short of John Randolph\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

The rancher rose slowly.\u00a0 At the door he turned back and asked, \u201cWill you come with me, to face Da Chao and tell him this?\u201d<\/p>\n

The lovely Chinese woman rose to her feet and reached for her cloak.\u00a0 \u201cThis one wishes no harm to Miss Rosey.\u00a0 Dandan will come.\u00a0 Perhaps…perhaps Da Chao will show mercy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben stood with his hand on the latch, considering what lay ahead.\u00a0 He had no idea if the Chinese tong leader even knew what the word \u2018mercy\u2019 meant.\u00a0 If he marched into the man\u2019s camp with only Dandan, would it cost Rosey her life?\u00a0 And what of Zhuang?\u00a0 He doubted Chao\u2019s rival was standing idly by. \u00a0Was his home in danger?<\/p>\n

Were his sons?<\/p>\n

Hop Sing had told him once that, just because men do not like the cold, Heaven would not stop the winter.<\/p>\n

The thought of that chilled him to the bone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

THIRTEEN<\/p>\n

Adam knelt in the back room of the cabin and put his hand to the floorboard Ming-hua had singled out \u2013 seven in from the right hand wall.\u00a0 It lay beneath a tattered rag rug.\u00a0 Before lifting the board, he glanced at Paul Martin who was standing by the door.\u00a0 The physician had it open a crack and was eyeing the trees on the far side of the clearing the small wooden structure was nestled in.\u00a0 His brother Hoss was out there somewhere, keeping watch as well.\u00a0 It seemed almost too much to ask to think they\u2019d made it from the ranch house to the cabin without being spotted by one or more of Da Chao or Khu Zhuang\u2019s men.\u00a0 Both were surely keeping watch.\u00a0 For this reason they\u2019d each headed in a different direction as they left the house, only meeting up later, and they\u2019d come alone.\u00a0 Hoss had agreed with him that bringing any of the hands along would be risky.\u00a0 More men meant more chances to be seen.\u00a0 Still, he had his doubts that their caution had been enough.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s jaw tightened and he winced.\u00a0 When he\u2019d expressed his doubts out loud, Hoss had volunteered to hang back and ride shotgun, so to speak.\u00a0 The big man was out there in the trees keeping watch.\u00a0 He worried about him. \u00a0Nearly as worried as he was about Little Joe.<\/p>\n

No, that wasn\u2019t true.\u00a0 At twenty-two Hoss was old enough, and more than large enough, to take on most any man. Joe, simply put, wasn\u2019t.\u00a0 He was still a boy and a scrawny boy at that \u2013 plus he was sick.<\/p>\n

As he let out a small sigh, Paul turned toward him.\u00a0 \u201cNothing there?\u201d the older man asked.<\/p>\n

Adam felt a twinge of guilt.\u00a0 \u201cI haven\u2019t looked yet,\u201d he said as he pressed his fingers into the crack between the boards.\u00a0 \u201cI was thinking about Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paul nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI haven\u2019t been able to do anything else.\u00a0 I find it hard to believe that men could be so cruel as to put the life of a boy his age in jeopardy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you\u2019ve read Machiavelli.\u00a0 You know the gist of what he says,\u201d he replied as he pried the board up.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean, the end justifies the means?\u201d<\/p>\n

Not exactly what the man said in The Prince<\/em>, but it captured the spirit of his words.\u00a0 \u201cSo long as Zhuang gets what he wants, he feels justified in how he went about it, and if that means putting a boy in danger, then \u2013 aha!\u201d<\/p>\n

He\u2019d been feeling about under the floorboards.\u00a0 His fingers had just made contact with something.\u00a0 It seemed to be a small silk purse with a round stone in it.\u00a0 Rising with the purse in his hands, Adam walked over to where the doctor waited.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnything from Hoss?\u201d he asked as he glanced out the crack in the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust a signal about two minutes ago that everything was all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam opened the strings on the purse and turned it upside-down over his hand.\u00a0 A moment later a pendent slid out of it.\u00a0 The stone, which was attached to a black cord dotted with gold knots, was in the form of a nesting dragon.\u00a0 The stone itself just about covered the palm of his hand.\u00a0 The carving was exquisite.<\/p>\n

He whistled low.\u00a0 \u201cIt certainly is beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paul was shaking his head.\u00a0 \u201cAll of this trouble, two men\u2019s lives in danger \u2013 your brother\u2019s and Randolph\u2019s \u2013 and all for a lifeless piece of rock.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, but Khu Zhuang doesn\u2019t believe it\u2019s lifeless,\u201d Adam countered.\u00a0 He held the pendant up to the early afternoon sun and watched the red fire within the green jade glow.\u00a0 \u201cHe believes the spirit of his ancestor rests within it and grants him power.\u00a0 Since it\u2019s a dragon, my guess would be that whoever owned it first \u00a0was a warrior.\u201d\u00a0 He made a face.\u00a0 \u201cZhuang believes this gives him that warrior\u2019s might, maybe even his wisdom.\u00a0 You\u2019ll find that belief echoed in some of the western Indian tribes.\u201d\u00a0 He glanced at Paul.\u00a0 \u201cIn the end, no matter what he thinks, this has<\/em> to be very important to him to have brought him all the way out here from California.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t forget he was following Chao as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m not, but I\u2019m betting Zhuang thinks he needs this in order to defeat Da Chao.\u00a0 For all he knows Chao has it and<\/em> the power.\u00a0\u00a0 Otherwise, he would have taken Da Chao on directly rather than go to all the trouble of kidnapping Joe.\u201d\u00a0 Adam clasped the stone in his hand and thrust it into his jacket pocket.\u00a0 \u201cWhich mean we have an ace in the hole.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

His attention was drawn immediately to the doctor.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss just signaled that we have company.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGet back, Paul,\u201d he said as he drew his weapon.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, so I have to take a bullet out of you?\u201d<\/em> the physician snapped.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s smile was grim.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s better than me<\/em> having to take a bullet out of you<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paul nodded as he moved out of the way. \u00a0\u201cPoint taken.\u201d<\/p>\n

Keeping the door between himself and the outside, the black-haired man scanned the trees for a sign of his brother. \u00a0Hoss was supposed to hightail it to the cabin if he\u2019d spotted trouble.\u00a0 When the minute he waited turned into two, and then three and four, Adam began to sweat.\u00a0 While he hadn\u2019t heard a shot, neither Da Chao nor Khu Zhuang\u2019s men needed a gun \u2013 their hands alone were deadly.\u00a0 Was his brother laying out there somewhere injured….<\/p>\n

Or worse?<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think you should call out?\u201d Paul asked.<\/p>\n

He hesitated.\u00a0 \u201cIt might make things worse, maybe alert someone to the fact that Hoss is there.\u00a0 If they have any \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u00a0 There!\u201d<\/p>\n

Relief washed over him when he saw the broad frame of his middle brother emerge from the trees.\u00a0 Hoss was walking quickly and gave no sign that he was injured.\u00a0 Following behind him were a man and woman.\u00a0 The woman was having some difficulty keeping up the pace his brother set.\u00a0 The man assisted her.\u00a0 It took a second for it to register and then he realized why.<\/p>\n

She was expecting.<\/p>\n

It was Biyu and John Randolph.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rosey O\u2019Rourke eyed Longwei as he paced back and forth in front of her.\u00a0 Every so often the bully would throw a look her way.<\/p>\n

If it had been a knife, she would have been dead.<\/p>\n

Ben had been gone for several hours and The Dragon\u2019s<\/em> bouncer had just about reached the limit of his patience \u2013 if what he had could be called \u2018patience\u2019.\u00a0 It was more like the expectation of a man who had lit a fuse and was eagerly waiting for it to go off.\u00a0 It seemed to her that no matter what happened, nothing would satisfy the cruel man\u2019s wounded pride but Biyu\u2019s death and the deaths of all who had helped her.\u00a0 It had been many years since she\u2019d had such a thought, but if she\u2019d been riding as a scout, she would have seen taking him out as a part of her duty \u2013 to insure the safety and security of those she rode with.\u00a0 Of course that had been during war time, and during a war life\u2019s usual rules were suspended.\u00a0 Nowadays such a move would be accounted as murder unless she were under direct threat, and so the man continued to roll like a loose cannon spewing fire, ready to destroy anything or anyone in his path.<\/p>\n

Rosey\u2019s gaze went from the Dragon\u2019s enforcer to Da Chao.\u00a0 The older man\u2019s patience was wearing thin as well.\u00a0 Chao had come to question her earlier and had seem unconvinced when she assured him that the amount of time Ben had been gone could easily be accounted for.\u00a0 She\u2019d assured him as well that the rancher wouldn\u2019t go to the authorities.\u00a0 Ben was a man of his word and if he said he would bring Biyu and Dandan to treat with Chao, then that was what he would do.<\/p>\n

Unless, for some reason, he couldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

That<\/em> was what troubled her.\u00a0 There was no guarantee the two young women had stayed put.\u00a0 Perhaps they had returned to the Ponderosa or, even more likely, run away.\u00a0 She doubted it though, as she knew Biyu wished to be with the man she loved.\u00a0 Still, John Randolph could have come for her.<\/p>\n

Ben might return empty-handed, and what then?<\/p>\n

She\u2019d considered running.\u00a0 She knew enough to work her way out of the bonds that held her in place if she put her mind to it.\u00a0 If she was free or…dead…Chao would have no leverage with Ben.\u00a0 But then Ben might become the hostage and if he was, there was nothing<\/em> that would stop his boys from trying to free him.\u00a0 All<\/em> the Cartwrights could be wiped out.\u00a0 She knew these men and knew what they were capable of.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s only hope lay in the fact that, in his own twisted way, Da Chao was a man of honor, unlike Longwei.\u00a0 If Chao made a bargain and Ben fulfilled his end of it, the tong leader would honor it. \u00a0The only problem was, she couldn\u2019t come up with an end that didn\u2019t leave Biyu either at the mercy of her supposed husband or dead.<\/p>\n

She and<\/em> her child.<\/p>\n

As she leaned her head back against the tree behind her and sighed, chiding herself again for the stupidity of setting out from Eagle Station alone, Longwei\u2019s fuse came to its end.<\/p>\n

\u201cDog!\u201d the bully shouted, striking his hand in the air as if he wielded a knife.\u00a0 \u201cCartwright has betrayed us!\u00a0 The woman should die!\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey\u2019s eyes went to Da Chao. She didn\u2019t fail to notice how the tong leader\u2019s left brow arched toward his receding hairline.\u00a0 \u201cUs<\/em>, my sister\u2019s son?\u201d he asked, his tone quiet and controlled.<\/p>\n

Longwei stiffened.\u00a0 \u201cThis one begs forgiveness, honorable Da Chao,\u201d he said, the apology never touching his narrowed black eyes.\u00a0 \u201cIt is you alone<\/em> who have been betrayed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chao\u2019s gaze remained locked on the other man.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps<\/em> I have been betrayed, and perhaps Ben Cartwright has a reason for the hours he takes.\u00a0 It is not for you to decide.\u00a0 It is for you to do as I tell you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei hesitated.\u00a0 She saw his rebellion in the way his jaw tightened and the flash of fire in those black eyes.\u00a0 \u201cMay this one speak his mind, most worthy Da Chao?\u201d<\/p>\n

The older man nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not Da Chao\u2019s honor that is stained.\u00a0 It is Longwei\u2019s.\u00a0 The woman \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe woman you <\/em>could not satisfy?\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a moment for the elder Chinese man\u2019s words to register with the younger one.\u00a0 \u201cShe is a whore,\u201d Longwei protested.\u00a0 \u201cShe has given herself to another man \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou knew this when you chose her.\u00a0 Did you not?\u201d \u00a0Da Chao took a step toward the other man.\u00a0 \u201cNever for a minute think I do this for you<\/em>, my sister\u2019s son.\u00a0 It is for the honor of the House of Da.\u00a0 You, as well as I, are bound by that honor to the agreement I made with Ben Cartwright.\u201d\u00a0 Rosey felt Chao\u2019s gaze shift to her.\u00a0 \u201cIf Ben Cartwright betrays me, the woman will die.\u00a0 If he fulfils the bargain, she goes free.\u201d\u00a0 The tong leader moved even closer.\u00a0 \u201cHear this, my sister\u2019s son, you will not<\/em> dishonor our house by some rash act.\u00a0 Should you do so, you will no longer be <\/em>my son.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was apparent to her that this battle of wills had been going on for some time.\u00a0 Perhaps this journey had even been undertaken as some kind of test to see whether Longwei would obey. \u00a0After all, according to the gossip at The Dragon<\/em>, Longwei was set to inherit Da Chao\u2019s organization and power.<\/p>\n

Perhaps Da Chao wished to see if he was worthy.<\/p>\n

\u201cHonorable Da Chao! Ben Cartwright is coming!\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey looked up to find one of Chao\u2019s sentries had entered the camp.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs Biyu with him?\u201d Longwei demanded.\u00a0 \u201cI would know \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

A look from Chao silenced him.\u00a0 The sentry waited for his master to say, \u2018speak\u2019 before answering.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is one woman with him,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Rosey drew a breath as the bouncer of The Delectable Dragon<\/em> turned and looked at her.\u00a0 She wasn\u2019t sure, but the thought crossed her mind that Longwei hoped it wasn\u2019t<\/em> Biyu.<\/p>\n

Just so he could kill her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright faced the Chinese tong leader with Dandan at his side.\u00a0 He knew this negotiation would be as, if not more<\/em> difficult, than any lumber, mining, or cattle deal he had ever parlayed.\u00a0 A bargain had been made and he had been unable to fulfill his end of it.\u00a0 That gave Da Chao legal and, albeit somewhat shaky moral ground, to exercise his right to exact the payment he had demanded should he fail.<\/p>\n

That payment being Rosey\u2019s life.<\/p>\n

She was looking at him now, shaking her head and pleading with those big brown eyes of hers; urging him to save himself and sacrifice her.<\/p>\n

Ben sighed.<\/p>\n

Had he really failed to make it clear to her that doing so was not <\/em>an option?<\/p>\n

The rancher\u2019s gaze shifted from the beautiful older woman to the Chinese man in the gray suit standing beside her.\u00a0 Longwei\u2019s fingers were wrapped tightly about the hilt of the knife that protruded from the sheath he wore just behind his gun.\u00a0 Ben drew in a breath and held it as his own hand slipped closer to the weapon he wore.\u00a0 At first it had surprised him that he\u2019d been allowed to carry it into the camp, but then he \u00a0realized that ordering him to remove it would have been an admission of weakness on the part of the tong members. Along with Da Chao and Longwei, there were several other men in the camp and one or two more keeping watch at the edge of the clearing.\u00a0 His only hope would be \u2013 if it came to a gunfight \u2013 that Rosey might be able to slip away and escape with her life.<\/p>\n

\u201cBenjamin Cartwright,\u201d the tall thin tong leader greeted him with a nod as he approached. \u00a0\u201cYou arrive with our bargain unfulfilled.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at Dandan.\u00a0 What he found curled the ends of his lips, though he refrained from smiling.\u00a0 He had expected to find fear in the China girl\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 Instead, he saw a steely determination sharpened by disdain. \u00a0Ming-hua\u2019s older sister reminded him of Joseph when his young son perceived a wrong \u2013 her eyes were narrowed, her nostrils flared, and her jaw was tight.\u00a0 He followed her fiery gaze and found its object was Longwei.<\/p>\n

\u201cI agree our bargain is \u2018unfulfilled\u2019,\u201d Ben said.\u00a0 \u201cI find I must ask the honorable Da Chao that he grant me a little more time to fulfill it.\u00a0 Biyu was not in the settlement.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s gaze shifted to Dandan.\u00a0 \u201cThis is true?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

The Chinese woman nodded.\u00a0 \u201cThis humble one begs of you that you do Mister Cartwright and his family no harm.\u00a0 He could not bring my sister to you.\u00a0 She has left Eagle Station.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will tell this one the reason,\u201d Da Chao said.<\/p>\n

It was not<\/em> a request.<\/p>\n

Dandan paled.\u00a0 Ben knew the young woman feared speaking the truth and knew, just as surely, that it must be spoken.\u00a0 The tong leader would accept nothing less.<\/p>\n

\u201cJohn Randolph came for Biyu and she went with him.\u00a0 It may be that they are at my house,\u201d Ben stated and then waited for a reaction.\u00a0 He got two<\/em>.\u00a0 Da Chao nodded slowly as if he had known all along and Longwei?\u00a0 Well, the brutal man exploded.<\/p>\n

He drew his knife and headed not for Rosey, but for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou<\/em> have allowed this!\u201d Longwei shouted.\u00a0 \u201cYou give safe haven to the one who dishonored me and for this you must pay!\u201d<\/p>\n

Before the irate man could reach him, Da Chao stepped between then.\u00a0 The tong leader said nothing, even when the force of Longwei\u2019s charge brought them nose to nose and the point of his nephew\u2019s knife touched the breast of his black coat.\u00a0 Chao crossed his arms and waited, holding Longwei\u2019s gaze until the knife was withdrawn and The<\/em> Dragon\u2019s<\/em> enforcer lowered his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI beg forgiveness,\u201d the younger man muttered.<\/p>\n

The older man waited a moment and then said, his voice soft as a snake slithering over stone.\u00a0 \u201cThis is the second time, my sister\u2019s son, that you have chosen to act as if it is you<\/em> who leads the tong and not Da Chao.\u201d\u00a0 The tong leader paused.\u00a0 \u201cIt will be the last<\/em> time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei bowed deeply.\u00a0 When he lifted his head, his jaw was tight and his eyes, fierce.\u00a0 \u201cI only ask what is my right \u2013 the lives of the man and woman who have dishonored our family.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben watched the pair carefully.\u00a0 There was something more going on here than was apparent.\u00a0 He had a sense for the first time that \u2013 perhaps \u2013 finding and taking Biyu was not uppermost on Longwei\u2019s agenda.\u00a0 As the uncle and nephew argued, he\u2019d watched the young men moving about the camp.\u00a0 It had been obvious from their expressions that several of them were on Longwei\u2019s side. \u00a0He wondered if the older man was aware of the dissention in his ranks.<\/p>\n

Then again, Da Chao had not made it to the advanced age he was by being un<\/em>aware.<\/p>\n

The tong leader held his nephew\u2019s gaze a moment longer before turning to him.\u00a0 \u201cYou will take us to your house.\u201d<\/p>\n

Again, it was not a question.<\/p>\n

He drew a breath. \u201cAnd if I don\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao lifted one eyebrow.\u00a0 \u201cThe bargain will remain unfulfilled and the woman will die…as may others who are dear to you.\u00a0 In one way Longwei is correct.\u00a0 John Randolph has brought dishonor to our house as has the woman taken by my nephew as his.\u00a0 Honor demands this be made right.\u201d\u00a0 The tall thin man paused before going on.\u00a0 \u201cMister Cartwright, I would ask, what are these two people to you that you would risk bringing harm to your own?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben hesitated.\u00a0 He cleared his throat before beginning, well aware of the half-dozen pairs of eyes fastened on him, including Rosey\u2019s.<\/p>\n

\u201cI made a choice long ago to do what God wants, and to do it with all my strength.\u00a0 I made a choice to choose my actions based on my values and not on what will bring me personal gain.\u201d\u00a0 He swallowed thinking of Rosey and of his sons who could well end up at this man\u2019s mercy.\u00a0 \u201cReal integrity is doing the right thing while knowing that nobody is going to know whether you did it or not.\u201d<\/p>\n

For the longest time Da Chao said nothing.\u00a0 Finally he nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYou are a most unusual man, Benjamin Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben puffed out a breath and nodded back.<\/p>\n

He wondered if that was a good <\/em>or a bad thing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

John Randolph sat on the ramshackle settee that had been left behind by the man from Kentucky when he left Nevada.\u00a0 One arm was wrapped protectively about Biyu\u2019s trembling form.\u00a0 The other, Adam couldn\u2019t help but notice rested on top of hers, which just happened to be anchored on her swollen abdomen.<\/p>\n

Anchored on his child.<\/p>\n

Good Lord!\u00a0 What was he going to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to let us go, Adam,\u201d John said.\u00a0 \u201cI could care less what happens to me, but I have to get Biyu and her child to safety.\u00a0 If Longwei \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is your child too,\u201d the China girl said softly.<\/p>\n

Adam glanced at the jade dragon he held in his hand.\u00a0 He had to get moving \u2013 needed<\/em> to find his brother.\u00a0 He needed to know Little Joe was okay and even more so, he needed to rescue him.\u00a0 The boy was sick.\u00a0 Little Joe should be in bed, recovering, not out there \u2013 somewhere \u2013 suffering for sure and maybe….<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

The black-haired man glanced up.\u00a0 \u201cWhat is it, Paul?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou aren\u2019t thinking of turning this young woman over to those vile men, are you?\u201d The doctor huffed.\u00a0 \u201cShe\u2019s going to have a child and that takes precedence.\u00a0 You\u2019d be risking two <\/em>lives, not one.\u201d<\/p>\n

Like he needed to be reminded.<\/p>\n

Adam made a face.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m just trying to think it out, Paul.\u00a0 Pa went to the settlement to bring both Dandan and Biyu,\u201d he eyed the frightened woman, \u201cto the Ponderosa where he hoped he\u2019d be able to negotiate with Da Chao.\u00a0 If you remember, Biyu is not the only one whose life is in danger.\u00a0 So is Rosey\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

The physician sighed. \u201cI had forgotten.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I let you run, John, Rosey is as good as dead.\u00a0 Pa won\u2019t be able to fulfill the bargain he made with Da Chao.\u00a0 Is that what you want?\u201d<\/p>\n

John released Biyu\u2019s hand and rose to his feet. \u201cYou know it isn\u2019t!\u00a0 But if Da Chao gets hold of Biyu, he\u2019ll \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know what he\u2019ll do\u201d Adam countered.\u00a0 \u201cYou fear what Longwei will do, but you don\u2019t<\/em> know what Da Chao\u2019s reaction will be.\u00a0 He\u2019s older.\u00a0 Wiser.\u00a0 You know he doesn\u2019t want to start a war with the population of Eagle Station.\u201d\u00a0 He frowned as his eyes returned to the pendant.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps he can be reasoned with.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere will be no reasoning with him!\u201d the Englishman declared.\u00a0 \u201cChao will order Biyu and our child murdered and I will not stand for it!\u201d\u00a0 John Randolph was breathing hard.\u00a0 He waited and then asked sharply, \u201cAdam, are you listening?\u201d<\/p>\n

He was, but a thought had begun to form in his head.\u00a0 He clasped the jade pendant in his fingers and then looked from it to the other man.\u00a0 A moment later his gaze went to Biyu.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou said this pendant is of paramount importance to Khu Zhuang?\u201d<\/p>\n

The China girl nodded.<\/p>\n

He needed the jade dragon as a bargaining chip to free his brother, but Adam wondered if perhaps \u2013 just perhaps \u2013 the stone could be used to kill more than one bird.\u00a0 It all depended on whether or not his father had returned to the Ponderosa by the time they got back.<\/p>\n

Hoss had been quiet for some time.\u00a0 He was standing by the hearth, leaning on the mantelpiece.\u00a0 Noting his expression, the big man pushed away from it as he asked, \u201cWhat are you thinkin\u2019, Adam?\u00a0 You sure ain\u2019t thinkin\u2019 of givin\u2019 that there piece of jade to Chao, are ya?\u00a0 We need that to get back Little Joe!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam held up his hand.\u00a0 \u201cI know.\u00a0 I know<\/em>.\u00a0 But say….\u00a0 Say, we give the jade dragon to Da Chao in exchange for Biyu.\u00a0 If it was his, he would have the upper hand with Zhuang. \u00a0As I understand it, Zhuang wants to take over Chao\u2019s territory?\u201d<\/p>\n

He addressed this to Biyu, but it was John who answered.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u00a0 They are rivals.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang is younger and more ruthless.\u00a0 He wants complete control.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut he also wants this stone.\u00a0 Correct?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u00a0 You\u2019re gamblin\u2019 with Little Joe\u2019s life,\u201d his brother warned.<\/p>\n

Was he?<\/p>\n

It seemed to him that this was yet another Gordian knot, insoluble within its own parameters.\u00a0 If his father didn\u2019t deliver Biyu and Dandan to Da Chao, Rosey would die.\u00a0 If they delivered Dandan, Biyu and<\/em> John to Chao in order to free Rosey, the lovely Chinese woman, John, and<\/em> their unborn child would most likely die.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang probably had Joe by now, and would kill him if their father didn\u2019t aid the rebel tong leader in capturing Da Chao and overcoming his men.\u00a0 Of the two, Da Chao was the most reasonable and, he believed, honorable of the pair.\u00a0 If he made a proposition to the tong leader \u2013 if he gave him the one<\/em> thing that would make Zhuang back down, then wouldn\u2019t Chao be grateful enough to let Rosey go and<\/em> aid them in freeing his brother?<\/p>\n

Adam looked again at the fiery green stone in his hand.\u00a0 In truth, there was no guarantee that offering the stone to Zhuang would buy Joe\u2019s freedom or <\/em>make the rebel leader forfeit everything to Da Chao.\u00a0 It was just a piece of rock.\u00a0 All they had was the word of a frightened Chinese woman and then man she loved that it meant more to him than that.<\/p>\n

That it meant everything. <\/em><\/p>\n

After a moment, he turned to Biyu who was on her feet now and standing beside John.\u00a0 \u201cI can\u2019t let you run, both for my brother\u2019s sake and your own.\u00a0 You can\u2019t travel fast with Biyu in the condition she\u2019s in.\u00a0 Either Zhuang or Longwei are sure to catch up to you.\u00a0 I can offer you protection at the Ponderosa.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s fingers folded over the warm stone.\u00a0 \u201cI have a feeling both Da Chao and Khu Zhuang will be paying us a visit soon.\u00a0 Chao will be returning with my father.\u201d\u00a0 He looked at Dandan.\u00a0 \u201cFrom what you said, he\u2019s going to assume you and John are at the house.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure Zhuang has men keeping watch, so they\u2019ll know it too.\u00a0 Da Chao wants the two of you and Zhuang wants the stone. \u00a0I still think the only way out of this is by exchanging one for the other.\u201d\u00a0 Adam turned to his brother.\u00a0 Hoss still looked unsure. \u201cWell?\u201d he demanded.\u00a0 \u201cDo you<\/em> have any better idea?\u201d<\/p>\n

His brother remained silent for several heartbeats.\u00a0 \u201cI sure don\u2019t.\u00a0 But that don\u2019t mean I like yours<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know you\u2019re worried about Little Joe, but Hoss, he\u2019s been taken as ransom.\u00a0 Zhuang won\u2019t harm him,\u201d he said, trying to convince himself as much as his brother.\u00a0 \u201cIf he did, what leverage would he hold?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes were the crystal clear blue of a mountain stream.\u00a0 There was no hiding what he was thinking and at this moment, his middle brother was thinking he was out of his mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can do whatever negotiatin\u2019 you think\u2019ll work, older brother,\u201d the big man said.\u00a0 \u201cSoon as we get home I\u2019m stockin\u2019 up and then I\u2019m goin\u2019 to look for Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go with you, Hoss,\u201d Paul Martin said as his gaze shifted to him.\u00a0 \u201cHeld safe as ransom or not, Adam, that boy needs me.\u00a0 Now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam turned to Biyu and John.\u00a0 As the Englishman wrapped his arm around the young woman\u2019s middle, he nodded.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll do whatever you say, Adam.\u00a0 I only pray that God is merciful and that my foolishness does not get anyone else killed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAmen to that,\u201d Hoss said with a sigh.<\/p>\n

He couldn\u2019t agree more.<\/p>\n

Amen<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Dear God.\u00a0 Let it be so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rosey rode in front of him on Buck.\u00a0 Longwei had taken the lead in the string of horses that were headed for the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Da Chao followed behind, and they were surrounded on every side by the tong leader\u2019s men. \u00a0They needn\u2019t have worried.\u00a0 He had no intention of trying to escape.<\/p>\n

Anyone knew that a war was best fought on one\u2019s own territory.<\/p>\n

From what Ben had been able to gather Da Chao and this other man, Khu Zhuang, were contesting for who would come out on top as far as controlling the tongs in Vallejo.\u00a0 Zhuang was a younger and more ruthless man, willing to do anything to achieve his goal.\u00a0 Da Chao was more restrained, though it was his intention to relinquish nothing.\u00a0 When Longwei insisted he and Chao set off to find his reluctant \u2018bride\u2019 and the man she had fallen in love with, Zhuang had seen an opportunity and seized it.\u00a0 Not only was the rebel leader on a personal mission to find John Randolph and retrieve the artifact the Englishman had stolen from him, Zhuang knew it would be easier to unseat his rival away from Chao\u2019s powerful organization.\u00a0 Ironically the two rivals were much the same.\u00a0 They were both bent on restoring their family\u2019s honor and, ironically, just as bent on tossing it aside to become king.<\/p>\n

What a tangled web, he thought, and how sad that they had all become so deeply enmeshed in it!<\/p>\n

\u201cA penny for your thoughts,\u201d Rosey said softly as she turned and looked at him.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s quite a frown you\u2019re wearing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s brow wrinkled.\u00a0 \u201cIs it?\u201d<\/p>\n

His hand was wrapped around her slender waist.\u00a0 He could feel the beat of the beautiful woman\u2019s heart against his own.\u00a0 In spite of the fact that Rosey had been ill-treated, her hair smelled of lavender and her skin, lightly powdered, of roses.<\/p>\n

As he breathed in her scent, she shifted and settled back against him.\u00a0 \u201cYou know, Ben, I\u2019m grateful you saved my life, but, well, you shouldn\u2019t have.\u00a0 If anything happens to one of those boys of yours because of me \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt won\u2019t,\u201d he said confidently.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d\u00a0 Rosey turned back.\u00a0 The motion pressed several brown curls into his nose.\u00a0 As he fought a sneeze, she remarked, \u201cSo now you can read the future?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I can,\u201d he said, smiling.\u00a0 \u201cI see a house, oh, say, twenty years from now.\u00a0 Filled with children and laughter.\u00a0 And I see two old people sitting by the fire hand in hand, sharing their joy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey grew very still.\u00a0 He felt her shoulders tense.\u00a0 \u201cWas that what I think it was, Mister Cartwright?\u201d she asked, breathless.<\/p>\n

Ben chuckled behind her back as he put more strength into the hand that held her, feeling her lightly corseted ribs beneath his fingers.\u00a0 \u201cAnd just what do you think it was, Mrs. O\u2019Rourke?\u201d<\/p>\n

The beautiful woman hesitated, then she said, \u201cA dream.\u00a0 A beautiful dream.\u00a0 Nothing more.\u201d<\/p>\n

For a few moments they rode in silence.\u00a0 When at last the lack of words became unbearable Rosey, being a woman, broke the silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know how I feel about you, Ben \u2013 you and<\/em> your boys. Don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Buck\u2019s steady hoof beats counted off several seconds before he answered.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you know why I can\u2019t \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

With the rein in his hand, Ben raised a finger to her lips.\u00a0 \u201cYou know what I\u2019ve taught my sons, Rosey?\u00a0 There is no such word as \u2018can\u2019t.\u2019\u00a0 Sometimes the greatest pleasure in life is in doing what people say you cannot<\/em> do.\u201d\u00a0 He smiled and he hoped she heard it in his voice.\u00a0 \u201cSome things just take time.\u201d<\/p>\n

For a moment she remained as she was.\u00a0 Then Rosey reached out and placed her hand over his.\u00a0 \u201cYou know, Ben, time has a wonderful way of showing us what really matters.\u201d<\/p>\n

He knew that was true.\u00a0 Just as he knew at this moment that he should be thinking of a dozen things other than the soft supple form in his arms.\u00a0 But if life had taught him anything, it was to live it one moment at a time and to take nothing for granted.<\/p>\n

\u201cRosey,\u201d he began.<\/p>\n

This time it was she who pressed a finger to his<\/em> lips.\u00a0 He knew she was right.<\/p>\n

Sometimes silence said it all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

FOURTEEN<\/p>\n

Joe felt the man holding him grow tense.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan you stand on your own?\u201d Jian asked, his voice pitched low.<\/p>\n

Joe nodded in order to save his strength, and then gritted his teeth against the pain and fought to remain upright as the man who had kidnapped him set his feet on the ground.\u00a0 He noted how Jian placed himself between him and the man who had appeared.\u00a0 The Chinese warrior\u2019s fingers hung close by the handle of the short sword he wore as he greeted him.<\/p>\n

\u201cDonghai,\u201d Jian said.<\/p>\n

Donghai was not pleasant to look at.\u00a0 He was an older man \u2013 close to Pa\u2019s age \u2013 and he had more scars than skin.\u00a0 His face looked like a battlefield where brutality had won.\u00a0 The only thing Joe could think of\u00a0 that he had ever seen looked close to it, was the face of a pugilist who had gone one too many rounds in the ring.\u00a0 Donghai was as short and stocky as Jian was long and lean and looked twice as mean.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe honorable Khu Zhuang, who is your master as well as mine, has sent me to find why it takes Jian so long to fulfill his duty.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian straightened his back.\u00a0 Head high he indicated him with a nod.\u00a0 \u201cMy duty is fulfilled.\u00a0 The boy is not well.\u00a0 To travel too quickly would be to risk harming him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Damn<\/em> right! Joe thought, and then winced as if he\u2019d felt his Pa\u2019s hand on his backside.<\/p>\n

Donghai stared at him.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s mouth went dry.\u00a0 He swallowed over his fear, straightened his back as well, and then bent in half as he was wracked by a fit of coughing.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is wrong with him?\u201d Zhuang\u2019s man demanded.<\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t you got the…sense to see what\u2019s in front of your nose?\u201d Joe snapped as tears spilled from his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t see the other man move, so swift and silent was his motion.\u00a0 A second later Joe found himself up against a tree with his feet dangling six inches above the ground \u2013 which only set him to coughing again.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhelp!\u201d Donghai snarled.\u00a0 \u201cYou will not speak unless spoken to!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe couldn\u2019t help it, even though he heard his pa\u2019s voice in his ear, warning him to keep silent.\u00a0 He looked the man straight in the eye and growled back, \u201cSo, are you…speakin\u2019 to me or not?\u201d<\/p>\n

Donghai was fast.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, Jian was faster.<\/p>\n

Joe felt the nick of the man\u2019s knife blade on his throat just as Donghai jerked and his eyes went wide.\u00a0 The man\u2019s fingers opened, releasing him, and they both fell to the ground.\u00a0 Joe dug his heels into the earth and kicked hard as he landed, shifting back, fearful Khu Zhuang\u2019s thug would rise up and go for him again.<\/p>\n

Then he saw the hilt of the knife protruding from Donghai\u2019s back.<\/p>\n

Jian stood over him, staring down.<\/p>\n

\u201cW-what?\u201d Joe demanded as another cough wracked his slender form. \u00a0\u201cI thought he was on your<\/em> side.\u201d<\/p>\n

The warrior\u2019s eyes flicked to him.\u00a0 \u201cHe who rides a tiger cannot dismount.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe looked at the dead man and then back up at the man he now considered his friend.\u00a0 \u201cIs that the…same kind of thing as…burning your bridges?\u201d he asked with a wry smile.<\/p>\n

Jian turned to look in the direction of the camp.\u00a0 Joe heard it too.<\/p>\n

More men were coming.<\/p>\n

The warrior bent to the ground and picked him up and, to his protests, tossed him over his shoulder.\u00a0 As Jian began to run, he replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cA wise man does not burn his bridge until he knows he can part the waters.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They\u2019d made it back to the house intact, him and Hoss, Paul, and John and Biyu.\u00a0 Adam had feared every step of the way that they would be overtaken by either Khu Zhuang or Da Chao\u2019s men. The fact that they hadn\u2019t been was both encouraging and dis<\/em>couraging. While he was delighted to have made it back intact to the familiar stronghold of the Ponderosa, it made him wonder just what other wickedness the black-clad men might be up to.<\/p>\n

After all, Pa and Little Joe were out there somewhere.<\/p>\n

Upon their arrival at the house they\u2019d found Ming-hua and Hop Sing holding down the fort, so to speak.\u00a0 Their cook had been much relieved to see them, but had let both him and Hoss have an earful \u2013 two<\/em> earfuls, in fact \u2013 when they admitted they had no idea where the rest of the family was.\u00a0 Adam passed a hand over his stubbled cheek, seeking to wipe away some of the fatigue that threatened to knock him off his feet.\u00a0 He\u2019d hoped against hope that they would find either Pa or Joe or both<\/em> of them at the house upon their return. \u00a0No such luck.\u00a0 Joe was still missing and presumably in Khu Zhuang\u2019s hands and Pa must be either in Eagle Station or on his way back.\u00a0 Pa, of course, had no idea Joe had been taken.\u00a0 The older man was worried about Rosey.<\/p>\n

Adam sighed as his hands moved from his face to his dark hair.<\/p>\n

He<\/em> was worried about everyone.<\/p>\n

Hoss had gone upstairs to change.\u00a0 The big man was bound and determined to head straight out in search of Joe without so much as grabbing a bite of food.\u00a0 Hop Sing was fixing him food anyway.\u00a0 Paul had gone with their cook to prepare a remedy for Joe, just in case Hoss found him.\u00a0 Ming-hua, Biyu, and Dandan were sitting in a huddle on the settee doing what women did best \u2013 crying.\u00a0 No, that wasn\u2019t fair.\u00a0 They had all been extremely strong, considering.<\/p>\n

It was just well, the constant sobbing was fraying what was left of his already frayed nerves.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes went to the Englishman, John Randolph.\u00a0 He strode back and forth in front of the fire, his eyes darting from the women to the kitchen wing, to him, and then upstairs to where Hoss had gone.\u00a0 Every so often John would sigh and look at the door.<\/p>\n

He was going to sacrifice himself if he didn\u2019t stop him.<\/p>\n

The question was \u2013 should<\/em> he stop him?<\/p>\n

Hoss was sure Khu Zhuang would kill Joe if he didn\u2019t hand over the jade piece, thereby negating his idea of giving it to Da Chao both as payment for Biyu and Dandan and as a bargaining chip against Chao\u2019s rival.\u00a0 He had to admit that Hoss had a point, and yet he couldn\u2019t see any other way of preventing the war that was about to come down on their heads. \u00a0Hoss, of course, didn\u2019t care about the war.\u00a0 All he cared about was their little brother.<\/p>\n

It made him feel like a heel because he wasn\u2019t doing the same thing.<\/p>\n

Still, there were other lives at stake \u2013 Pa\u2019s for one.\u00a0 Obviously the older man hadn\u2019t been able to turn Biyu over to Da Chao and Longwei since she was sitting here, sniffling and distraught, in their great room. \u00a0And that meant Rosey was under threat too.<\/p>\n

Dear God, they might lose them all….<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d John declared as he stormed over to him.\u00a0 \u201cThis is ridiculous!\u00a0 Give me the jade dragon.\u00a0 I will take it to Zhuang and he\u2019ll let your brother go.\u00a0 I won\u2019t have Little Joe\u2019s life on my conscience!\u00a0 Richard Jennings\u2019 is bad enough!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cFirst of all, there\u2019s no guarantee Zhuang has Joe, or if he has, that he will let him go for the stone.\u00a0 Zhuang wants Da Chao\u2019s head.\u00a0 Threatening Joe\u2019s would be the best way to get it.\u201d\u00a0 He held the man\u2019s miserable gaze.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ll be dead.\u00a0 Your child will be fatherless, and Joe….\u201d\u00a0 He swallowed.\u00a0 \u201cJoe will be dead as well.\u00a0 No, having this stone in hand is the best chance my brother has.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can think that all you want, Adam,\u201d his brother spoke from the stair.\u00a0 As Adam turned to look at him, Hoss descended to the floor.\u00a0 \u201cI ain\u2019t willin\u2019 to bet little brother\u2019s life on your theory.\u00a0 I\u2019m gonna go get Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam caught his brother\u2019s arm as he pushed past and opened the door.\u00a0 \u201cHoss, these men are professional assassins.\u00a0 You can\u2019t stop them on your own!\u00a0 They\u2019ll kill you and <\/em>Joe \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

His middle brother was a gentle man.\u00a0 He had seen tiny birds rest, cupped in his giant hands.\u00a0 But those hands also had the power to snap a man in two.<\/p>\n

At the moment, he thought it might be him.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cYou let me go, Adam,\u201d Hoss warned.\u00a0 \u201cJoe\u2019s sick.\u00a0 He might even be….\u201d\u00a0 His brother swallowed over his fear.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t no one gonna stop me from goin\u2019 out that door and marchin\u2019 into that China man\u2019s camp!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes that include me?\u201d a familiar voice asked.<\/p>\n

Adam turned to find his father standing in the doorway.\u00a0 Rosey clung to his arm, safe and sound.\u00a0 The fact that Longwei and Da Chao were several steps behind them \u2013 and behind them<\/em> were several of Chao\u2019s men registered but did nothing to alter his relief.<\/p>\n

The cavalry had arrived.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had had just about enough. \u00a0He was tired of bein\u2019 toted around like a two year old.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHey!\u201d he yelled as Jian continued to dash through the trees.\u00a0 \u201cPut me…down!\u201d<\/p>\n

The warrior grunted, tightened his grip on his legs, and continued on.<\/p>\n

Joe waited a second and then pounded on the man\u2019s back.\u00a0 \u201cDidn\u2019t you…hear me?\u00a0 Let me down!\u00a0 I can…take care of myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is a thin line…between bravery and stupidity, tiger cub,\u201d Jian replied, winded as well.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho you…callin\u2019 stupid?\u201d<\/p>\n

It amazed him really, how strong the man was.\u00a0 While he wasn\u2019t no Hoss, Jian carried him like he wasn\u2019t no more than a sack of flour.<\/p>\n

The answering smile on Jian\u2019s lips was grim. \u201cIt is you <\/em>who chose stupid over brave.\u201d<\/p>\n

Just as he about had that one puzzled out, the warrior came to an abrupt halt.\u00a0 Something, it wasn\u2019t fear \u2013in fact, he didn\u2019t think Jian knew what fear was \u2013 flashed through the warrior\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey are ahead of us.\u201d\u00a0 He turned. \u00a0\u201cAnd behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

Abruptly, he got his wish.\u00a0 Joe found his feet on the ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes the tiger cub have claws?\u201d Jian asked.<\/p>\n

Joe shook his head, both to answer and to clear it since it was spinning. \u201cClaws?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jian rolled his eyes over and up.\u00a0 When Joe followed them he saw a tall tree with low branches.<\/p>\n

\u201cClimb!\u201d the warrior ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright stood at the heart of his home, just in front of the settee, his feet planted firmly several feet apart, staring down what he could only describe as a rabid dog.<\/p>\n

A dog named Longwei.<\/p>\n

On the other side of Marie\u2019s prized sofa, before the fire, Biyu stood clinging to her sisters.\u00a0 They had risen as well and positioned themselves to either side of the expectant mother.\u00a0 Rosey was with them too, seated close by on the hearth.\u00a0 Near the older woman stood John Randolph.\u00a0 The Englishman had paled when he saw the two Chinese men enter after him, but to give him credit had not backed away.\u00a0 It was clear Randolph would give his life to save the woman he loved.<\/p>\n

He just hoped it didn\u2019t have to come to that.<\/p>\n

Hard on the heels of Da Chao and Longwei had come Chao\u2019s henchmen \u2013 five strong black-clad men armed to the teeth.\u00a0 As one went to the kitchen to retain Hop Sing and Paul Martin, the others positioned themselves strategically around the room, keeping a watch on his sons.\u00a0 His eldest <\/em>sons.<\/p>\n

So far he had seen no sign of Joseph. \u00a0He assumed the boy was upstairs asleep in his bed.<\/p>\n

He prayed <\/em>the boy was upstairs.<\/p>\n

His eyes had sought Adam\u2019s, asking that question, but there had been no time for an answer. \u00a0His eldest son had just asked for permission to speak to the tong leader.\u00a0 Surprisingly, Da Chao agreed.<\/p>\n

\u201cSpeak,\u201d Chao said.<\/p>\n

Adam cleared his throat.\u00a0 He looked at him and Ben nodded.\u00a0 He had no idea what his son was about to say, but he trusted him implicitly.<\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s smile was weak, but it was there.<\/p>\n

\u201cI believe Da Chao to be an honorable man, unlike his enemy,\u201d Adam began.\u00a0 \u201cI ask that he prove it to be so.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben frowned.\u00a0 This was thin ice Adam was skating on as Da Chao\u2019s frown proved.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you question this?\u201d the tall man inquired sharply.<\/p>\n

Adam squared his shoulders.\u00a0 \u201cNo, and that is why I ask to make a bargain with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben felt the tong leader\u2019s eyes land briefly on him before returning to his son.\u00a0 \u201cSuch a bargain as your honorable father made and was unable to fulfill?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI beg to differ,\u201d the rancher said, feeling a bit cheeky himself.\u00a0 \u201cBoth Dandan and Biyu are here, in Da Chao\u2019s presence.\u201d<\/p>\n

A nod of the tong leader\u2019s head indicated John Randolph.\u00a0 \u201cAs is the man who dishonors our family.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI beg Da Chao\u2019s pardon.\u00a0 I do not agree.\u00a0 This man,\u201d Adam pointed to the Englishman, \u201cdid not dishonor Da Chao\u2019s family when he fell in love with Biyu, nor when he took her away.\u201d\u00a0 His son\u2019s gaze went to Longwei as if gauging the man\u2019s reaction to his next words. \u00a0\u201cBiyu does not belong to Longwei.\u00a0 There was no marriage.\u00a0 Not in the eyes of the law.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe white man\u2019s law,\u201d Chao countered before his incensed nephew could react.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is the white man\u2019s<\/em> land,\u201d his son countered coolly. \u00a0\u201cYou live in the white man\u2019s land.\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei slipped his knife from its sheath.\u00a0 \u201cThis<\/em> says otherwise,\u201d he snarled.<\/p>\n

Adam held the tong leader\u2019s gaze.\u00a0 \u201cDoes this puppy<\/em> now speak for Da Chao?\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader\u2019s lips twitched.\u00a0 \u201cYou will remain where you are, my nephew,\u201d he ordered.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will not<\/em> \u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

A look silenced Longwei.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it you propose, eldest son of the tiger?\u201d Chao asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI propose to give Da Chao what he needs to defeat his enemy once and for all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben frowned as Adam held out his hand and opened it.\u00a0 In his palm lay a perfect circle of jade, carved in the form of a nesting dragon.<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s intact of breath was audible.\u00a0 His eyes flicked to John Randolph who had taken a step toward Adam.\u00a0 \u201cI was told this had been sold.\u201d<\/p>\n

John looked chagrined.\u00a0 \u201cIt belongs to Biyu.\u00a0 I told her to sell it to finance our escape to England.\u00a0 She didn\u2019t.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 He glanced at the young woman.\u00a0 \u201cShe said she didn\u2019t want to start our life together that way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben did not fail to notice Longwei\u2019s intact of breath as well, not at the sight of the jade pendant but at the mention of the couple\u2019s plans.\u00a0 Or fail to see the hatred directed at the Englishman and the pregnant woman who stood beside him.<\/p>\n

Da Chao held Adam\u2019s gaze for a moment and then held out his hand.<\/p>\n

Adam withdrew the object.<\/p>\n

The tong leader smiled.\u00a0 It was the smile of a rattler poised to strike.\u00a0 \u201cName your price,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cFirst,\u201d his son began, \u201cyou agree to let John and Biyu go.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Longwei shouted, not unpredictably.<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s look again silenced his nephew, though the young man was boiling.\u00a0 Turning back to Adam, the tong leader asked, \u201cFirst?\u00a0 What beside this great act does the son of Ben Cartwright ask for this…trinket?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cYou will take me to Khu Zhuang\u2019s camp with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The thin man\u2019s lips quirked.\u00a0 \u201cDoes the son of the tiger desire to see my enemy\u2019s fall?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben couldn\u2019t hold his peace any longer.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, what is this?\u00a0 I will not permit you to put yourself in danger \u00a0\u2013 \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cZhuang\u2019s got Little Joe, Pa,\u201d Hoss said, speaking for the first time.\u00a0 The big man\u2019s jaw was tight and his eyes blue fire as he turned on his brother.\u00a0 \u201cYou ain\u2019t goin\u2019 without me, Adam.\u00a0 You hear me?!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cZhuang…what?\u201d the rancher stammered as his eyes went to the stairs, his hope of what lay at the top of them evaporating like morning mist.\u00a0 A second later he returned his attention to Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going with him, Pa,\u201d his eldest said.\u00a0 \u201cKeeping Joe safe was my responsibility.\u00a0 Nothing you can say will stop me.\u00a0 I\u2019d considered keeping the stone \u2013 trying to exchange it for Joe \u2013 but there was no guarantee Zhuang would honor any bargain he made.\u201d\u00a0 He turned toward the tong leader.\u00a0 \u201cIn the end, I chose to trust in Da Chao\u2019s better nature.\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader watched them, his dark eyes moving from Adam to Hoss to him.\u00a0 The tong leader glanced at his nephew and then returned his gaze to him.\u00a0 \u201cYou and your sons shame Da Chao.\u00a0 There is more honor in this house than in my own,\u201d he said, his voice cool and even. \u201cI agree to your terms.\u201d<\/p>\n

For the first time in a long time, though things were still beyond <\/em>desperate, Ben felt a ray of hope.<\/p>\n

It was extinguished immediately as Longwei bolted from his position near the door, shoved Adam aside, and launched himself \u2013 knife drawn \u2013 across the settee.<\/p>\n

His intent was clear.\u00a0 He meant to kill Biyu and her unborn child.<\/p>\n

The room exploded into action.\u00a0 John Randolph blocked the bouncer\u2019s attack by moving in-between, deflecting the knife with his arm, which took the brunt of the assault.\u00a0 Randolph managed to stop Chao\u2019s nephew with a swift and very English uppercut\u00a0 to his chin.\u00a0 Unfortunately, it only halted the man for a few seconds.\u00a0 Rising quickly, Longwei leapt at John.\u00a0 The pair grappled for a moment and then Longwei tossed the Englishman aside.\u00a0 John struck his head on the corner of the settee table and fell as one dead to the floor.\u00a0 Once John had been subdued, Chao\u2019s nephew turned his fury on Biyu.\u00a0 He might have reached her \u2013 would<\/em> have killed her \u2013 but the Chinese thug had neglected to take one important thing into account.<\/p>\n

Rosey O\u2019Rourke.<\/p>\n

The older woman sat silent during his son\u2019s bargaining session, and remained seated as the deal was made.\u00a0 Now she was on her feet and Ben winced as he saw her drive the sharp end of the fireplace poker into the bully\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 Before Longwei could recover, Hoss stepped in and spun the villain around and finished what John and Rosey had begun as his giant fist connected with the man\u2019s already tender jaw and sent him off to fly in the clouds with Hop Sing\u2019s dragons.<\/p>\n

Into the silence that descended upon the room came the voice of the tong leader.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo with Longwei what you will.\u00a0 He has dishonored the house of Da for the last time.\u00a0 He is no longer my son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben pivoted on his heel to look at the older man as he considered the differences between them.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t imagine turning his feelings for any of his sons off in such a cold and callous manner no matter what<\/em> they had done.<\/p>\n

Hoss held Longwei by one arm; the bouncer\u2019s gray-clad form dangling limp as a rag doll.\u00a0 \u201cWhat\u2019cha want me to do with this one, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTie him up and put him in the barn,\u201d Ben ordered, disgusted.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll let the sheriff deal with him later.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben frowned as his middle boy made his way to the door.\u00a0 He had a feeling they would have to watch Longwei closely if they wanted him to see American justice.\u00a0 Still, at the moment, that was the least of his worries.<\/p>\n

Da Chao was approaching Biyu.<\/p>\n

The lovely Chinese woman faced him.\u00a0 Boldly at first and then, with her head bowed slightly. Da Chao\u2019s gaze went from her to John Randolph, who was just getting to his feet with Rosey\u2019s aid, before settling again on the pregnant woman.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe jade dragon belongs to you?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

The young woman looked up, startled.\u00a0 Her gaze shot to Adam who nodded.\u00a0 A moment later she did the same.<\/p>\n

\u201cI would have it.\u00a0 I pay in price your freedom.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben watched as Biyu exchanged a glance with John.\u00a0 She nodded again.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Adam crossed to Da Chao and handed him the green stone.\u00a0 The tong leader gazed at the dragon where it lay nested in his open palm.\u00a0 \u201cYour son is wise, Ben Cartwright, exchanging one thing of beauty for another.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWill you tell me, Da Chao, just what is it that Khu Zhuang thinks this \u2018thing of beauty\u2019 can do for him?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

The tong leader turned toward him.\u00a0 \u201cKhu Zhuang is a dog who dreams he is a dragon.\u00a0 He would take what he wants breathing fire and leaving nothing.\u00a0 He believes his ancestor inhabits this stone and the stone gives him power.\u00a0 With it, he is a dragon.\u201d\u00a0 Da Chao closed his fingers over the jade circle.\u00a0 \u201cWithout it, he is only<\/em> a dog.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben hesitated, then he asked, his thoughts on his missing son. \u00a0\u201cThe dragon\u2019s fire is hot, but the teeth of a dog can kill.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang has my boy.\u201d\u00a0 Ben glanced toward the door through which Hoss had propelled Longwei.\u00a0 \u201cYou know the love of a son.\u00a0 May I ask…would the great and honorable Da Chao consider surrendering the dragon stone to his enemy if \u00a0it is the only way to save mine?\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader met his gaze.<\/p>\n

But said nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cClimb!\u201d Jian ordered again, drawing his curved blade as he did.<\/p>\n

It was all Joe could do to obey.\u00a0 The effort was almost too much for him.\u00a0 Still, the sense of urgency in the warrior\u2019s voice made him grab hold and pull his sore body up and continue <\/em>to move upward, grasping first one and then another rough branch until he was some ten or twelve feet off the ground.<\/p>\n

That was the limit of his strength and<\/em> breath.<\/p>\n

Shaking and shivering Joe settled back into the leaves and wrapped his arms around the tree\u2019s rough trunk.\u00a0 He drew a deep breath, silencing the cough that threatened to reveal his hiding place, and held on for dear life.<\/p>\n

Jian looked up at him and nodded, and then took off running, disappearing into the trees just as several black clad forms appeared.\u00a0 They paused for a moment and then one of them let out a whoop that would have rivaled any Paiute as they spotted the warrior and took off after him.<\/p>\n

Then, it was silent.<\/p>\n

Joe sat there, clinging to the tree, tears streaming down his face.\u00a0 He knew what Jian had done.\u00a0 By refusing to turn him over to Khu Zhuang the warrior had become dishonored in the tong leader\u2019s eyes and deserved death.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d sacrificed himself for him.<\/p>\n

The cough finally escaped.\u00a0 There was nothing he could do about it except pray Zhuang\u2019s henchmen were too far away and too preoccupied with finding and killing Jian to hear it.\u00a0 He prayed too, as he released the trunk and looked down to find the first branch to anchor his foot on, that somehow the Chinese warrior who had saved him would escape. \u00a0Jian was awful smart \u2013 and really fast.\u00a0 It seemed to him that he was some sort of special warrior, so maybe \u2013 just maybe<\/em> \u2013 he could outrun and outsmart those other men.\u00a0 Of course, all of that didn\u2019t matter now.\u00a0 All that mattered was concentrating on the branch beneath the branch he was on and working his way down and out of the tree before he fell out of it.\u00a0 It probably would have been smarter to stay up there, hangin\u2019 on like one of those monkeys in Africa, but the truth was, he was pretty sure he would have passed out and fallen to his death if he had.\u00a0 Pa always told him that God looked out for children, drunks, and fools, and while he wasn\u2019t a drunk \u2013 and he didn\u2019t really like to think of himself as a child \u2013 he sure did feel like a fool.\u00a0 He could still see Adam\u2019s eyes staring at him when he offered to go with Jian.\u00a0 He\u2019d known he was sick and most likely wouldn\u2019t make it, but dang it!\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t gonna let no one hurt his family because of him.<\/p>\n

No way!<\/p>\n

When he reached the ground Joe dropped into a heap at the foot of the tree and lay there suckin\u2019 in air and tryin\u2019 to stay awake.\u00a0 Unwanted coughs wracked his small frame, tearing at his ribcage and makin\u2019 his head pound like the hooves of a herd of startled cattle.\u00a0 Tears ran down his cheeks.\u00a0 Stars appeared before his eyes and before he knew it, he lost all touch with reality and slipped into a warm place before the fire where he sat between his ma and pa on the settee and felt the touch of their loving hands.<\/p>\n

He awoke to someone shaking him.<\/p>\n

Joe wrapped his arms around his ribs as he struggled into an upright position.\u00a0 He blinked away the fog of the dream and then looked up at the Chinese man looming over him.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, tiger son,\u201d Khu Zhuang said, a sneer spreading across his pugnacious face, \u201cwe meet at last.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Night was upon them and they were upon the road.\u00a0 Ben held tight to the reins as they moved, his mind churning through everything that had happened.\u00a0 He wanted to believe that Da Chao was, in his own way, an honorable man. Surely the tong leader had no desire to see a boy die at the hands of his enemy.\u00a0 Still, he knew Chao\u2019s kind of man \u2013 business was the first priority and if that meant stopping Khu Zhuang then that was what he would do \u2013 no matter the consequences.\u00a0 Due to his uncertainly with the tong leader\u2019s motivations, he\u2019d split the men he had into three parties.\u00a0 He rode with Da Chao.\u00a0 They were the first wave, their mission to find and confront the rebel tong leader and negotiate with him.\u00a0 Hoss and Adam came second.\u00a0 His elder sons followed close behind with several of the ranch hands.\u00a0 All were armed to the teeth in case it came to war.\u00a0 Ben smiled grimly as he adjusted his grip on the reins and directed Buck to the side of the path in order to miss a gaping hole.\u00a0 Then there was the third wave which consisted \u2013 against his wishes \u2013 of his old friend Paul and Rosey O\u2019Rourke.<\/p>\n

John Randolph he had left behind.\u00a0 If the Englishman were to be taken, well, it would upset the balance of everything.<\/p>\n

He and Rosey had exchanged some heated words before he gave in to the beautiful woman and agreed to let her come along. The \u2018discussion\u2019 had started with him expressing his fear for her safety, rolled on through her telling him that if it hadn\u2019t been for her, Biyu and her baby \u2013 and maybe him and his sons as well \u2013 would be dead, and ended when she reminded him that she had ridden as an army scout for as many years as he had sailed the seas and <\/em>served as an aide to the company medic.<\/p>\n

\u2018What if someone is injured demanding Paul\u2019s immediate attention?\u2019 <\/em>Rosey asked.\u00a0 \u2018Who will there be to care for Little Joe?\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

The rancher sighed.\u00a0 It seemed his lot in life to place<\/em> the life of someone he loved in danger in order to save the life of someone else<\/em> he loved.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are concerned about your son,\u201d Da Chao remarked from beside him.<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at the man.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u00a0 A father\u2019s greatest joy \u2013 and fear \u2013 is his sons.\u201d\u00a0 He paused.\u00a0 \u201cI…regret what happened with your sister\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

For a moment the tong leader said nothing.\u00a0 \u201cLanfen, his mother, died when Longwei was born.\u00a0 My sister\u2019s husband did not want the child, believing him the cause of his mother\u2019s death.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo you have reared him from the start?\u201d\u00a0 That surprised him, considering Da Chao\u2019s nature.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnfortunately, it was not so.\u00a0 Longwei was sent to live with his father\u2019s sister.\u00a0 Qiang did not want the boy.\u00a0 She did her duty, nothing more.\u201d\u00a0 Da Chao rode a moment in silence and then added, \u201cBy the time the boy came to me, he had much anger in him.\u00a0 Anger walks a path toward destruction.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben rode a moment in silence, thinking of his own \u2018angry\u2019 boy.\u00a0 There were times when he wondered if he had the wisdom to keep Joseph\u2019s feet from that \u2018path of destruction\u2019.\u00a0 He knew the boy\u2019s anger sprang from the loss of his mother while he was still a babe.<\/p>\n

It humbled him to realize that Longwei\u2019s had as well.<\/p>\n

\u201cForgive me, for thinking so ill of the young man.\u201d\u00a0 Ben turned toward his companion.\u00a0 \u201cMay I ask a personal question?\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao nodded his agreement.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you really mean it when you said he was no longer your son?\u201d\u00a0 The rancher snorted.\u00a0 \u201cIf I disowned Joseph every time he challenged me or disobeyed….\u201d<\/p>\n

Chao rode a moment before answering.\u00a0 \u201cI have known for some time it is Longwei\u2019s desire to take my place as leader of the tong.\u00a0 Perhaps he has even had dealings with Khu Zhuang, though this I do not know for certain.\u00a0 It is my hope that, in the end, he will put the honor of his family above his ambition.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you will give him a chance to prove his loyalty?\u00a0 You haven\u2019t really \u2018disowned\u2019 him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen young, one of your holy people taught me the story of Absalom.\u00a0 Do you know it?\u201d the tong leader replied.<\/p>\n

Ben nodded.\u00a0 He knew it well.\u00a0 King David loved his son Absalom dearly.\u00a0 When the boy rose up to overthrow him, still he loved him.\u00a0\u00a0 And when one of David\u2019s men killed Absalom, thinking he did a great deed, David\u2019s grief nearly destroyed him.<\/p>\n

Ben nodded.<\/p>\n

Nothing more needed to be said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Ben Cartwright moved on in silence, with Hoss, Adam and their men following, and then Rosey and Paul, all of their thoughts were on the safety of the one they sought to reach.\u00a0 Little did they know that, at that moment, at the Ponderosa ranch house, events were unfolding that would change the course of their lives.<\/p>\n

Jim Sanders, the ranch hand Ben Cartwright had left in charge of watching Longwei, was approaching the stable.\u00a0 He\u2019d heard a sound \u2013 something of a muffled grunt.\u00a0 Rifle in hand, Jim stepped up to the barn door and opened it a crack and looked in.<\/p>\n

It was the last thing Jim ever did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

FIFTEEN<\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright sat with his back up against yet another <\/em>uncomfortable tree.\u00a0 His hands were bound with ropes behind it, tied so tightly he couldn\u2019t move.\u00a0 His sore ribs had screamed as they were unnaturally expanded and he\u2019d passed out briefly.\u00a0 Now, he was awake and in some ways he wished he wasn\u2019t.\u00a0 Shortly after he\u2019d awakened the black-garbed thugs who had been chasin\u2019 him and Jian returned.\u00a0 One of them led the warrior\u2019s horse.\u00a0 Another carried his curved sword behind his belt.<\/p>\n

Zhuang questioned them sharply, wanting to know why they hadn\u2019t brought the traitor\u2019s body back to him.\u00a0 The man with Jian\u2019s sword explained that the former tong member had been driven to the edge of the river and perished when he fell in. They told him they tried to capture Jian\u2019s body, but the swift current bore it away. \u00a0His sword and his horse were all that was left.<\/p>\n

Tears trailed down Joe\u2019s cheeks and he sniffed.<\/p>\n

They were all that was left of his friend.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe son of Benjamin Cartwright mourns his enemy?\u201d the now familiar voice asked.<\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t want to answer.\u00a0 He was so tired.\u00a0 But he knew from experience that if he didn\u2019t, a swift kick in the side or a hand gripping and hauling back on his hair would be his reward.<\/p>\n

One simply did not keep Khu Zhuang waiting.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d he mumbled.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd why is this?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe supposed the truth couldn\u2019t hurt Jian now.\u00a0 \u201cHe was kind to me \u2013 unlike some other people,\u201d he growled.<\/p>\n

One of the men watching him scoffed.\u00a0 A look from the rebel tong leader silenced him.<\/p>\n

Zhuang remained silent a moment, then he said, \u201cLeng<\/em>, you will tell me what you know of my enemy, Da Chao and his plans.\u201d<\/p>\n

They\u2019d been here before.\u00a0 His lack of answers had brought him a slap and a kick in the side.\u00a0 Joe braced himself for more.<\/p>\n

\u201cI told you, I don\u2019t know…anything.\u00a0 I\u2019ve been….\u201d\u00a0 He swallowed a cough and waited until the urge passed.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve been sick and in bed.\u00a0 Chao and that…other feller, Long-something, talked to my older brother Adam and \u2013\u201d<\/p>\n

Oops.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t mentioned Adam before.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will tell me what this Adam said, or reveal where he is,\u201d Zhuang ordered.<\/p>\n

Joe thought about lyin\u2019.\u00a0 He considered tellin\u2019 the ugly pug-nosed China man that Adam was at their house, when he knew full well that his older brother was on his trail.\u00a0 Maybe if Zhuang headed to the Ponderosa lookin\u2019 for Adam \u2013 and took him along \u2013 he could get escape and make his way home.\u00a0 But, no, he didn\u2019t want this evil man going anywhere near his house.\u00a0 Hop Sing would be there, and maybe Ming-hua and her sisters.<\/p>\n

Locking his lips, he shook his head.<\/p>\n

The rebel tong leader gazed coolly at him for a moment and then crouched directly in front of him.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang reached out and took hold of the locks of hair dangling across his forehead and lifted them up, so he could look directly into his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think, son of wealth, that I will not harm you because you are young.\u00a0 In my land, you would be a man and I will treat you as such.\u201d\u00a0 Zhuang looked at the man to his right and then, at the one to his left.\u00a0 \u201cYou believe you have known pain before, leng<\/em>.\u00a0 It is as nothing compared to the pain you will know at the hands of Bai and Bingwen.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t gonna get…nothin\u2019 out of a dead man,\u201d he snarled.<\/p>\n

There was a flicker in the rebel\u2019s eyes, of respect perhaps, but it was quickly masked.\u00a0 \u201cNothing but the pleasure of his death.\u201d\u00a0 Zhuang released his grip and rose abruptly to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cYou have one hour in which to decide.\u00a0 You will tell me all you know or you will die.\u201d\u00a0 Turning to the two men he commanded then, he said, \u201cCome, we will leave the leng<\/em> alone to decide.\u00a0 There is much to discuss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe breathed a sigh of relief as the trio walked away.\u00a0 The rebel tong leader had hinted earlier that he was to be used as leverage to make Pa turn over Da Chao, so he really doubted the pugnacious man would kill him.\u00a0 Still, that wouldn\u2019t stop him from letting his men work him over right and good.\u00a0 Hop Sing had told him that the reason he could work the knots out of their legs after riding and ease the pain in their backs was that Chinese men learned points on the body that could bring pleasure or pain.\u00a0 His friend used his hands to heal.<\/p>\n

These men would use theirs to hurt.<\/p>\n

Joe closed his eyes and leaned back, attempting to ease the pain in his ribcage, even though it was pointless.\u00a0 The way they\u2019d tied his arms made taking anything but the most shallow breath impossible.\u00a0 He was holdin\u2019 on like his Pa and brothers had taught him, but only by a thread. \u00a0In fact, he was pretty sure if he saw one of them step out of the trees right now, he\u2019d sink like a lead weight down into nothing.\u00a0 The only thing keeping him going was the fact that he had<\/em> to keep going.\u00a0 He knew his pa.\u00a0 Pa would do anything <\/em>to save him \u2013 even sacrifice himself \u2013 and he wasn\u2019t about to let that happen.\u00a0 No, he\u2019d goad Zhuang\u2019s men into goin\u2019 too far and killin\u2019 him before he\u2019d let that happen.<\/p>\n

If he was dead, then there wouldn\u2019t be anything to hold over Pa\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

Joe closed his eyes and envisioned his father and brothers.\u00a0 He could see them now, breaking through the trees that circled the clearing with guns blazing, coming to his rescue.\u00a0 They\u2019d take all of Zhuang\u2019s men out at once.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s lips curled in a weary smile as the image of his family as the hand of God flashed before his weary eyes. There was no one he admired more than his pa and brothers.\u00a0 Especially his pa. \u00a0There was no one as strong or sure of himself or as ready to defend his family and his land as Ben Cartwright. \u00a0And there was nothing<\/em> like Pa\u2019s voice.\u00a0 That voice of his, so deep, so full of purpose, could calm a raging river or make it roar if the flood waters were needed.<\/p>\n

Dear God!\u00a0 How he longed to hear that voice.<\/p>\n

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

Joe blinked.\u00a0 Was he dreaming?\u00a0 He must<\/em> be dreaming.<\/p>\n

Cautiously, the weary boy opened his eyes.\u00a0 He looked up and was surprised to encounter those near-black eyes he knew and loved so well.\u00a0 They were narrowed with concern and anger, just like he\u2019d imagined they would be when his father found him.<\/p>\n

Pa?<\/em> he mouthed.<\/p>\n

The touch of his father\u2019s hand on his cheek brought Joe completely awake.\u00a0 The sound of his father\u2019s voice confirmed that the older man was indeed there and that that dam that held back the flood waters was about to burst.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will release my son this instant!\u201d Pa roared as he turned to face down Khu Zhuang.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou <\/em>will give me Da Chao,\u201d the rebel leader responded serenely.\u00a0 \u201cThen, I will consider it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe was still blinking away fatigue and sleep.\u00a0 He cleared his throat and managed to make a thin sound this time.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u00a0 How….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHush, Joseph,\u201d his father said without turning his eyes from the other man.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll soon have you free, boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rebel tong leader\u2019s expression had changed.\u00a0 He looked mildly amused.\u00a0 \u201cYou are a brave man, Benjamin Cartwright, to enter Khu Zhuang\u2019s camp alone and unarmed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t want to risk injury to my son.\u00a0 You have me as hostage now.\u00a0 You will release him!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe squirmed against his bonds.\u00a0 \u201cPa, no!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, hush!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n

His father turned that intense gaze on him.\u00a0 \u201cYou will keep silent<\/em>, son.\u201d\u00a0 A moment later Pa turned his back on him as if he wasn\u2019t there.<\/p>\n

\u201cRelease my son,\u201d he said again.<\/p>\n

Zhuang\u2019s unpleasant face grew even more so.\u00a0 \u201cI think not.\u00a0 I think tiger father is caged so long as I hold tiger son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe watched his father\u2019s shoulders sag.\u00a0 Then they straightened once again.\u00a0 \u201cAll right,\u201d Pa said, sounding defeated and nothing like the man in his vision. \u201cThen I guess I have no choice but to hand Da Chao over to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Khu Zhuang\u2019s eyes were ravenous.\u00a0 \u201cHe is here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI am here.\u201d<\/p>\n

His father backed up as the tall thin Chinese man stepped out of the trees.\u00a0 With Khu Zhuang distracted, Pa came close enough to speak in a low tone.\u00a0 He said only nine words, but they were the nine words Joe most wanted to hear.<\/p>\n

\u201cBe strong, son. \u00a0Your brothers are on their way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright reluctantly moved away from his youngest, fearful that if he remained close he might draw fire in the boy\u2019s direction.\u00a0 His son looked terrible.\u00a0 In the short time they had been apart, any progress Little Joe had made toward beating his illness had been erased.\u00a0 Joseph was gaunt and gray as morning mist. \u00a0The slight sheen on his skin told him the boy was fighting another fever.<\/p>\n

Like a knife in the gut Paul Martin\u2019s prediction that his youngest might not survive a night in the woods came back to haunt him.<\/p>\n

No, he assured himself, Adam and Hoss would be here soon, and shortly after that the very<\/em> prophet of doom \u2013 Doc Martin himself.\u00a0 Joseph would be all right.<\/p>\n

He had <\/em>to be all right.<\/p>\n

The rancher watched as Da Chao moved with confidence to confront his rival.\u00a0 The two men were very dissimilar in appearance.\u00a0 Chao was tall and willowy, with a natural confidence and agreeable manner.\u00a0 He stood straight and commanded respect.\u00a0 Zhuang was a small ugly man, bent like a gnarled tree twisted by a blight.\u00a0 His scarred exterior reflected the inner man from what he had been told.\u00a0 Khu Zhuang was a killer and would stop at nothing to take over the Vallejo tongs.<\/p>\n

So, something had to stop him instead.<\/p>\n

He and Da Chao had found Zhuang\u2019s camp easily enough.\u00a0 The rebel tong leader had made no attempt to conceal where he was.\u00a0 After all, he wanted them to come.\u00a0 In the beginning it had puzzled him a bit that the pugnacious man had chosen to bring his war to the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Nevada was a long way from California.\u00a0 If what Chao suspected \u2013 if his nephew Longwei was indeed working with Zhuang or had fed him information \u2013 then it finally made sense. \u00a0Still in his uncle\u2019s confidence, Longwei would be able to supply Zhuang with the information he needed regarding how and where to strike.\u00a0 It could even have been Longwei who suggested kidnapping Joseph.\u00a0 He would have known from the whole affair with Bosh that a threat to Joseph\u2019s life would prompt him do just about anything to redeem the boy.<\/p>\n

No.\u00a0 To do<\/em> anything.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s attention was drawn back to the tong leaders as Khu Zhuang began to shout.\u00a0 Da Chao remained calm.\u00a0 In a way, it was like watching a blustery wind go up against an ancient white oak.<\/p>\n

\u201cI<\/em> am stronger!\u201d Zhuang proclaimed.\u00a0 \u201cI am the one chosen<\/em> by the gods to be the dragon, as was my ancestor before!\u00a0 Me!<\/em>\u00a0 You are weak.\u00a0 You play at deals.\u201d\u00a0 His fingers formed a fist, which he shook in Chao\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cYou<\/em> will not grasp what is within your reach.\u00a0 You are unworthy<\/em> to lead the tong!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is you<\/em> who have no grasp of what a tong is, Khu Zhuang,\u201d Da Chao answered evenly.\u00a0 \u201cA tong is not a body to make war with, but to conduct business in this new country that is so unlike our own.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is what the white man says!\u00a0 Are you a white man?\u00a0 Am I?\u201d Zhuang spat back.<\/p>\n

\u201cI honor my ancestors,\u201d the tall thin man replied, a little fire entering his tone.\u00a0 \u201cYou<\/em> do not.\u00a0 You wish to make war where there is no need for war.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is always <\/em>a need for war,\u201d the pug-nosed man countered.\u00a0 \u201cIt is the way of the dragon!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced over his shoulder at Little Joe.\u00a0 His son was still there, still tied to the tree.\u00a0 Joseph met his gaze, gave him a weak smile, and then his head dropped wearily to his chest.\u00a0 Where were Hoss and Adam, he wondered?\u00a0 Had something happened to them?\u00a0 The rancher swallowed over his fear as he turned back to watch the two men.\u00a0 He was wondering when Da Chao was going to play his ace in the hole and reveal his possession of the one thing that would take the wind out of Khu Zhuang\u2019s sails.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, but Khu Zhuang, my enemy, is no longer a dragon.\u00a0 He is a dog without teeth,\u201d Chao replied, his lips curling with a sneer.\u00a0 \u201cHe is a toothless puppy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sucked in air and held it.<\/p>\n

Here it came.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe fought his way back to consciousness.\u00a0 Knowing his pa was so close had \u2013 as he expected \u2013 taken all the fire out of him.\u00a0 Life was tough, Pa\u2019d taught him that, and you had to be tough too.\u00a0 You went through it strugglin\u2019 and fightin\u2019 just to stay alive. He\u2019d been fightin\u2019 to stay alive, to beat the fatigue and the pain and that fever that was lickin\u2019 at the edge of his senses, but now, well, now his pa was here to fight it for him and that had taken the stuffing out of him.\u00a0 Joe blew out a breath, shifting a few unruly locks of his hair on his forehead as he did.\u00a0 He wanted to pretend he was just as tough as his older brothers. \u00a0He admired them both so much.\u00a0 He\u2019d seen them take a lickin\u2019 and come up fightin\u2019.\u00a0 It seemed Hoss and Adam always came out on top.\u00a0 He\u2019d meant to come out on top too.\u00a0 He\u2019d been fightin\u2019 as hard as he could.\u00a0 But he was done now.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t as strong as Pa or Adam or Hoss.\u00a0 And he wasn\u2019t a man.\u00a0 He was just a sick kid, and at this moment he wanted nothing more than for someone to cut him lose and scoop him up into their arms and carry him back home to the Ponderosa and tuck him in bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe,\u201d a voice spoke from close behind him.\u00a0 \u201cDo not move or speak.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hope leapt in his heart.\u00a0 Pa had said his brothers were coming and they had!\u00a0 One of them was working the ropes that bound his wrists behind the tree.<\/p>\n

He was gonna be free!<\/p>\n

The curly-haired youth glanced at his Pa, hoping somehow to communicate what was happening, but his father\u2019s gaze was locked on the two Chinese men. Oh well, Pa would know he was free when he looked at the tree and saw he was missing. A crooked smile lifted one corner of his lips.\u00a0 Boy, would Adam and Hoss be surprised!\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t even gonna beg to join in the fight that was sure to follow.\u00a0 Pa would take care of things.\u00a0 Instead, he\u2019d beg Hoss to lift him up and carry him back to the house on that big old horse of his.<\/p>\n

As the ropes fall off of his wrists a voice insisted, \u201cNow!\u00a0 Come!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe had to fight through encroaching blackness to obey.\u00a0 The sudden release of his arms had sent waves of pain shooting through his ribcage and nearly made him pass out.\u00a0 But he didn\u2019t.\u00a0 He held on and even helped a little as strong fingers gripped his upper arm and pulled him into the trees.\u00a0 It was only then, when he felt those fingers close around his flesh, that he began to doubt.\u00a0 Maybe it wasn\u2019t Hoss or Adam who had hold of him.\u00a0 Something just didn\u2019t seem right about that grip.<\/p>\n

There was no tenderness in the touch, just a sense of urgency.<\/p>\n

About twenty feet into the darkened woods, Joe dug his feet in and refused to go any farther. \u00a0He\u2019d decided whoever it was had freed him was a stranger.\u00a0 In the shadowy depths of the trees it was hard to see, but the man leading him was too slender for Hoss and too big for Adam.\u00a0 And on top of that, he wasn\u2019t dressed like a rancher.\u00a0 He was wearing a suit.<\/p>\n

A gray suit.<\/p>\n

Joe frowned.\u00a0 He\u2019d seen that gray suit before.<\/p>\n

But where?<\/p>\n

As the truth dawned and Joe realized just who<\/em> it was had hold of him, one of Hop Sing\u2019s proverbs came back to him.<\/p>\n

\u2018Of all thirty-six ways to get out of trouble, the best way is \u2013 leave.\u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n

He sure wished he could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben breathed a sigh of relief.\u00a0 He\u2019d glanced at the tree to find Joseph gone.\u00a0 That meant his brothers had arrived.<\/p>\n

So far no one else in the camp had noticed his son\u2019s escape.\u00a0 Everyone was focused on the duel of wills between the two tong leaders.\u00a0 As Khu Zhuang\u2019s voice rose in volume, Da Chao spoke more softly.\u00a0 Like Moses found out in the Good Book, it was the still small voice that commanded attention.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s dark eyes quickly assessed the men gathered in the clearing.\u00a0 He counted seven henchmen, along with the rebel tong leader.\u00a0 If things went badly \u2013 if it came to a firefight \u2013 the sides were about even.\u00a0 Wherever Hoss and Adam were, they had at least a half dozen of the Ponderosa men with them. More than enough to take care of these thugs.\u00a0 Hoss would be upset to have to miss it, but he\u2019d wrung a firm promise from his middle son that if and when they found Joseph, he would head for home immediately with his little brother.\u00a0 Most likely they were on their way now.\u00a0 Not only did he want his youngest son out of the way, but the boy needed medical attention.\u00a0 He and Hoss should run into Paul and Rosey quickly enough.<\/p>\n

As Khu Zhuang voiced yet another threat, Ben turned back to view the proceedings.\u00a0 He noticed the sneer remained on Da Chao\u2019s lips as the thin man weathered the barrage of angry words.\u00a0 A moment later Chao reached into his sleeve and produced what looked to be a simple black chord decorated with gold knots. \u00a0Ben recognized it.<\/p>\n

So did Khu Zhuang.<\/p>\n

Silence fell in the forest clearing.<\/p>\n

When the rebel tong leader finally found his voice, he demanded, \u201cWhere is the jade dragon?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn my possession,\u201d Da Chao replied serenely.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will give it to me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCertainly,\u201d the tall thin man said.<\/p>\n

Ben wanted to laugh at Khu Zhuang\u2019s expression, but he restrained himself.\u00a0 He knew what was coming.<\/p>\n

The pug-nosed man went toe to toe with the elder tong leader.\u00a0 \u201cYou will give it to me now!\u00a0 The dragon is mine!\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s voice remained calm.\u00a0 \u201cYou failed to keep the dragon safe.\u00a0 Your ancestor finds no honor in you.\u00a0 It is I<\/em> he honors now with his presence and his power.\u201d\u00a0 The older man addressed the men in black who ringed the clearing.\u00a0 \u201cWould you remain with Khu Zhuang, with whom the dragon is displeased?\u00a0 Or do you chose to walk with the one who finds favor with the dragon?\u00a0 Your choice is life or death.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben had been distracted for a moment by a movement in the leaves.\u00a0 He was looking for some sign that it was Adam, making his presence known.\u00a0 It took a few seconds for Da Chao\u2019s words to penetrate this greater worry.\u00a0 When they did, he turned toward the tong leader.<\/p>\n

\u201cDa Chao, what are you doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

The tall thin man turned to meet this puzzled gaze.\u00a0 \u201cI do that which it was my intent to do all along, Benjamin Cartwright,\u201d he replied, one black eyebrow cocked.\u00a0 A second later, like a snake Da Chao struck.\u00a0 There was a flash of silver near Zhuang.\u00a0 The rebel tong leader drew a breath and looked down, confused.\u00a0 A moment later his confusion turned to surprise and then his face went blank as the pug-nosed man tumbled to the ground dead.<\/p>\n

Da Chao had slit his throat.<\/p>\n

Stunned didn\u2019t begin to describe what he was feeling.<\/p>\n

As Zhuang\u2019s men began to grumble, Da Chao reached into his coat and produced the jade dragon.\u00a0 He held it high for all to see. \u00a0\u201cYou who serve Khu Zhuang know of the dragon\u2019s power.\u00a0 See!\u201d\u00a0 He pointed at the still form at his feet.\u00a0 \u201cHe failed to keep it and he is dead.\u00a0 The dragon and its power are no longer his, but mine!\u00a0 You do not betray your master by serving me, but honor the dragon!.\u201d<\/p>\n

Da Chao\u2019s actions troubled Ben.\u00a0 On one hand, it could be a master play.\u00a0 The tong leader could be playing on the superstitions of the men who had followed his rival and turning them to his own advantage.\u00a0 On the other hand, Da Chao might believe what he said.\u00a0 He might truly<\/em> believe the jade amulet gave him ultimate power.\u00a0 His purpose for coming to Nevada could have been to take it \u2013 and kill Zhuang \u2013 all along.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo you begin to understand, Benjamin Cartwright,\u201d the tong leader said.<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cAnd here I thought you were an honorable man.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe only honor one owes is to his family,\u201d Da Chao explained as he drew closer.\u00a0 \u201cYou of all men know this is true.\u201d\u00a0 A sneer curled the man\u2019s lip back like a cougar\u2019s before the kill and then he shouted.\u00a0 \u201cLongwei!\u00a0 Show Mister Cartwright your prize.\u201d<\/p>\n

The rancher\u2019s heart nearly stopped.\u00a0 No<\/em>, he thought.\u00a0 No<\/em>.\u00a0 There had still been no sign of Adam \u2013 or Hoss.\u00a0 If they didn\u2019t have their brother, then who….?<\/p>\n

No.<\/p>\n

A moment later the rancher\u2019s worst fears were realized.\u00a0 Da Chao\u2019s \u2018disowned\u2019 nephew appeared out of the trees flanked by several men in black.<\/p>\n

Longwei was carrying his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright frowned as he crouched and took up a position behind a boulder and next to his brother.\u00a0 Hoss signaled him to be silent and then rolled his eyes over toward the clearing and the scene unfolding there.\u00a0 They had arrived a minute too late.\u00a0 By the time they spotted Longwei, he already had Little Joe in hand and the pair were surrounded by several armed men.\u00a0 There was nothing they could do but watch as the Dragon\u2019s<\/em> enforcer turned his weapon butt first and struck Joe on the temple, rendering him unconscious.\u00a0 It had been all he could do to restrain Hoss from rearing up like a mama grizzly and charging the man right there and then.\u00a0 Only mentioning the fact that, if he did, Joe would be dead in seconds had stopped him.\u00a0 His brother was still breathing hard.\u00a0 The tears that had formed in his blue eyes when he saw Joe treated so roughly had spilled over, marking his beefy face with trails that glinted brightly as the diamond firmness of his resolve. It was all too clear now that the scene at the Ponderosa where Longwei had lost control and been taken prisoner had been staged to make them trust Da Chao implicitly.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s jaw clenched as he considered how much they might lost to that mistake.\u00a0 In the end, the whole thing had been a game.\u00a0 Da Chao and Khu Zhuang both wanted control of the tongs in Vallejo and both were willing to do whatever it took to come out on top \u2013 lie, cheat, steal, kill <\/em>\u2013 and all in the name of honor.<\/p>\n

Adam scoffed.\u00a0 Honor among thieves.<\/p>\n

The question now was, since it appeared Khu Zhuang was dead and Da Chao had won, why had Longwei taken Joe prisoner? Chao had the jade dragon.\u00a0 His rival was dead.\u00a0 There was nothing more to bargain for.<\/p>\n

Unless….<\/p>\n

Adam sighed.\u00a0 Da Chao must have studied Sun Tzu.<\/p>\n

\u2018All warfare is based on deception\u2019.<\/p>\n

He wanted John Randolph.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou will return to your home, Benjamin Cartwright, and you will bring the Englishman to me or your son dies.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben was still reeling.\u00a0 He had felt a sort of kinship with this man while they talked of their angry \u2018sons\u2019.\u00a0 Seldom had he been so<\/em> mistaken in character.\u00a0 The rancher looked at his youngest.\u00a0 Joseph was obviously unconscious.\u00a0 There was a slow trickle of blood running from his son\u2019s temple down onto his tattered shirt.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t have to harm the boy!\u201d he snarled.\u00a0 \u201cAgain, I ask you to let Joseph go and keep me.\u00a0 My other sons will be here shortly.\u00a0 Let them take Joseph to the house where he can be cared for.\u00a0 I promise one of them will return with John.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs well as the law, no doubt,\u201d Da Chao said.\u00a0 \u201cNo.\u00a0 I will keep your son.\u00a0 You <\/em>will go.\u00a0 And if there is any interference by your other sons, be assured, the one I hold will pay with his life.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat story about Longwei,\u201d Ben asked, his eyes still on Little Joe, \u201cwas any of it true?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll of it,\u201d the thin man said.\u00a0 \u201cThe dragon\u2019s fire burns away all that is unnecessary.\u00a0 For the time being he is useful, if unpredictable.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe dragon?\u201d he snapped. \u201cSo you believe this nonsense about a piece of rock having the power to make you invincible?\u201d<\/p>\n

A slow sneer curled the thin man\u2019s lip up.\u00a0 \u201cOpportunities multiply as they are seized.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben felt sick.\u00a0 He\u2019d walked right into the man\u2019s trap.\u00a0 There was nothing he could do now.\u00a0 Nothing to amend such a grand mistake.<\/p>\n

He would have to turn over John Randolph over to Zhuang in order to save his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019re we gonna do, Adam?\u201d Hoss asked in a fierce whisper, his fingers clenching and pawing his weapon\u2019s trigger.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m thinking.\u00a0 I\u2019m thinking.\u201d<\/p>\n

Again, he was faced with a damn Gordian knot.\u00a0 The problem was insoluble.\u00a0 At the moment their father and brother were in the hands of a power-mad Chinese tong leader and were surrounded by at a half-dozen or more murderous henchmen.\u00a0 Even though they had a dozen men as well, waiting back about a quarter of a mile for their signal, there was no way they could use them.\u00a0 Joe and Pa would be dead before the men\u2019s horses\u2019 hooves struck the earth.\u00a0 No, if they were going to do anything about the situation they found themselves in, it would be up to them \u2013 him and Hoss.<\/p>\n

Or so he thought.<\/p>\n

At that moment Adam heard the sound of a wagon\u2019s wheels.\u00a0 He pivoted and watched it roll past and into the view of the tong leader.\u00a0 In it were a man and woman.<\/p>\n

\u201cSay, Adam,\u201d Hoss breathed, \u201cain\u2019t that\u00a0 Paul Martin and Miss Rosey?\u201d<\/p>\n

And God help them all, John Randolph.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think he\u2019s doin\u2019 here?\u201d Hoss asked even as they heard the thunder of other hooves.<\/p>\n

Adam turned to look and when he saw who it was that followed, all his father\u2019s prohibitions against cursing failed.<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn it all to hell….\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben walked straight over to the wagon and took hold of John Randolph\u2019s arm.\u00a0 \u201cWhat do you think you\u2019re doing here?\u201d he demanded.<\/p>\n

John\u2019s eyes were locked on Joseph. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Ben.\u00a0 The man you left to watch Longwei is dead. \u00a0When we discovered he\u2019d been freed, I realized the whole thing had been a charade.\u00a0 I never quite believed Da Chao turned on his nephew.\u201d\u00a0 He looked past him to the tong leader.\u00a0 \u201cIt was an excellent job of acting.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben tightened his grip.\u00a0 \u201cJohn, I\u2019m asking you again, what<\/em> are you doing here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIsn\u2019t it obvious?\u201d the Englishman asked.\u00a0 \u201cGiving myself up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe couldn\u2019t stop him Ben,\u201d Paul said as he debarked from the wagon, leaving Rosey on the seat.<\/p>\n

Ben scowled at her and then asked, \u201cWhere is Biyu?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOn a stage with her sisters,\u201d John answered firmly, his gaze meeting Da Chao\u2019s.\u00a0 He looked directly at Longwei. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019m the only one who knows where she is going and I\u2019m not telling.\u00a0 I am the one who dishonored your family, not her.\u00a0 My death alone will have to be enough to restore that \u2018honor\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei growled his dissatisfaction.\u00a0 A moment later the bouncer\u2019s hand moved to Joseph\u2019s throat.\u00a0 \u201cYou will<\/em> tell or he will die!\u201d he warned.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Ben shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne twist, Benjamin Cartwright,\u201d Da Chao said quietly, his tone laced with menace.\u00a0 \u201cOnly one.\u201d<\/p>\n

At that moment the rancher heard a loud \u2018click\u2019.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou touch my brother, China man, and you\u2019re dead,\u201d a low voice warned.<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t know whether to be relieved or grow more concerned.\u00a0 Hoss and Adam had appeared from out of the trees.<\/p>\n

\u201cDa Chao!\u00a0 You are a wise man,\u201d Adam shouted.\u00a0 \u201cYou know that a man who sacrifices his conscience to ambition burns a picture to obtain the ashes.\u00a0 You\u2019ve won over Khu Zhuang.\u00a0 Show these men who follow you now that you can be generous.\u00a0 Let Joe and John go.\u201d<\/p>\n

The tall thin tong leader shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cHe who wants to be a dragon must eat many little snakes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Then he nodded at Longwei.<\/p>\n

Ben wouldn\u2019t have thought it possible.\u00a0 His son was about to be murdered right in front of his eyes.<\/p>\n

And he froze.<\/p>\n

Around him insanity erupted.\u00a0 Hoss broke into a run and charged Longwei even as those of Da Chao\u2019s men who were loyal to him drew their weapons.\u00a0 Valiantly, Adam moved to stand between the murderous force and his brothers.\u00a0 His eldest son held his gun at the ready, as if that one small weapon could fend off the army that threatened to destroy them.\u00a0 John Randolph was running toward Paul Martin.\u00a0 The older man was shouting and attempting to shove Rosey under the wagon where she would be out of the line of fire.\u00a0 She was fighting him while he \u2013 he did nothing.<\/p>\n

It took a small sound to bring the chaos to a halt and him back to action.<\/p>\n

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

Every man in the clearing turned toward the one who had uttered the cry. \u00a0Ben blinked several times to be certain of what he saw.<\/p>\n

It was Biyu.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cursed under his breath.\u00a0 He \u2018d stopped the pregnant woman and told her to remain behind.\u00a0 He\u2019d actually turned her around and sent her back toward their men.<\/p>\n

Typical of a woman, she hadn\u2019t listened.<\/p>\n

As the men in the camp reacted to the sudden arrival of the object of so much turmoil and travail, Adam sought his father\u2019s gaze.\u00a0 He\u2019d seen the older man freeze when Longwei reached for Little Joe\u2019s throat.\u00a0 It had terrified him too and for a second, he too had been unable to move.\u00a0 Hoss had no such difficulty.\u00a0 He\u2019d charged toward Little Joe and his own death without a thought.\u00a0 Adam had known at that moment that the only thing he<\/em> could do was position himself between Chao\u2019s men and his brothers.\u00a0 Looking at each of the black-clad men in turn, he released the breath he didn\u2019t know he held.\u00a0 The men in black were still there.\u00a0 They had their weapons drawn.\u00a0 But they weren\u2019t moving.\u00a0 No one was moving.<\/p>\n

No one but Biyu.<\/p>\n

Adam ran a hand over his chin as he watched her advance.\u00a0 God, he was weary!\u00a0 He drew a second steadying breath as he sighted along his weapon, aiming it at Da Chao.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t want to kill the man.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t want to kill anyone.\u00a0 What he wanted to do was turn and look behind and make sure his baby brother was safe, but he was afraid to take his eyes off of the tong leader.\u00a0 So, instead, he continued to watch Biyu approach the tall thin man.\u00a0 When she came to stand before Chao, the former China girl bowed and then went down on her knees.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis unworthy one has brought dishonor not only to the house of Da, but to the house of Cartwright.\u00a0 Biyu begs Da Chao that she and only she be punished.\u201d\u00a0 The expectant mother lifted her head.\u00a0 Her gaze went to the wagon where Rosey stood with Paul Martin.\u00a0 Beside them, restrained but ready to act, was John Randolph.\u00a0 Biyu hesitated and then rose.\u00a0 A moment later she headed for the Englishman.\u00a0 As she did, he took advantage of the moment and turned to look for his brother.\u00a0 Longwei no longer held Joe.\u00a0 He\u2019s dropped him.<\/p>\n

His baby brother lay in a broken heap at the bully\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

He couldn\u2019t tell if he was breathing.<\/p>\n

Biyu had reached John Randolph. \u00a0She reached out to touch his arm and then spoke, her voice trembling with emotion.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis unworthy one did not wish to remain with Longwei.\u00a0 When you came to The Dragon<\/em>, you were kind to me.\u00a0 Gentle.\u00a0 You told Biyu you loved her and would take her away.\u201d\u00a0 The young woman\u2019s hand went to her belly.\u00a0 She used it to cradle the growing child inside.\u00a0 \u201cLongwei is hard as the diamond and wicked as the wolf.\u00a0 Biyu desired that her child not become a wolf.\u201d\u00a0 She blinked back tears as she looked John in the eye.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one told John Randolph the child was his.\u00a0 This one lied.\u00a0 The child is Longwei\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

If a pin had been dropped, it would have resounded through the woods like a clarion bell.<\/p>\n

\u201cBiyu, no!\u201d John protested.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes!,\u201d she declared.\u00a0 \u201cIt has all been a lie.\u00a0 This one only wished to get away.\u201d\u00a0 As tears streamed down her face, the lovely Chinese woman left John and returned to Da Chao.\u00a0 \u201cThere is no one to blame but Biyu.\u00a0 There is no one who deserves punishment but Biyu.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was fond of literature.\u00a0 He\u2019d read the classics.\u00a0 He wondered if Da Chao had as well.\u00a0 It was clear that Biyu had chosen to do the \u2018noble\u2019 thing.\u00a0 She was sacrificing herself for all of them.\u00a0 The former China girl was willing to descend into Hades \u2013 and to take her unborn child with her \u2013 so that they<\/em> might all once again have spring.<\/p>\n

Da Chao looked over her head to his nephew. \u00a0Adam noted, it was with an odd expression.\u00a0 Before he could wonder what it meant, Chao asked, \u201cWhat says Longwei?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dragon\u2019s<\/em> enforcer stepped over Little Joe\u2019s prone form as if his brother were nothing more than a dung heap.\u00a0 Out of the corner of his eye, Adam saw Hoss move to Joe\u2019s side as the tong leader\u2019s nephew went to stand before his uncle.\u00a0 The big man gently turned the youngster over and pressed his beefy hand against his chest.\u00a0 When he looked up, Hoss gave a little nod \u2013 followed by a bigger shake \u2013 and then he gathered Joe\u2019s limp form in his arms and headed for the wagon and Doctor Martin.<\/p>\n

Pushing his fear for his baby brother aside, Adam turned his attention and weapon back to the matter at hand.\u00a0 He had a feeling the war wasn\u2019t over.<\/p>\n

Not by a long shot.<\/p>\n

\u201cI demand their deaths!\u00a0 This man!\u00a0 This woman!\u201d Longwei shouted.\u00a0 \u201cI have been dishonored!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou would kill your own child?\u201d Adam heard his father ask as Pa\u2019s voice cracked with incredulity.\u00a0 The older man had watched as Hoss delivered Little Joe into Doctor Martin\u2019s capable hands.\u00a0 Like him, his father knew there was nothing there he<\/em> could do to make a difference.\u00a0 The black-haired man eyed the trembling woman who stood not ten feet away from his father\u2019s authoritarian figure.<\/p>\n

Perhaps here \u2013 perhaps for Biyu, Pa could <\/em>make a difference.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no proof her child is mine,\u201d Longwei growled in reply.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd there is no proof it isn\u2019t!\u201d Pa countered hotly.\u00a0 \u201cAre you so small that you cannot set aside your own selfish pride?\u00a0 Good God, man!\u00a0 What if you\u2019re wrong?\u00a0 What if it is<\/em> your child?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBenjamin Cartwright is correct,\u201d Da Chao said.\u00a0 \u201cIf the child is yours, it is of the house of Da.\u00a0 You will do nothing, my nephew.\u00a0 Biyu and this man will return to Vallejo with us.\u201d\u00a0 The tong leader looked at John and then at the sad young woman.\u00a0 \u201cIf the child is not yours, time will tell.\u00a0 Then and only then, will justice be done.\u00a0 The matter is out of your hands.\u00a0 You will obey me, my sister\u2019s son, or pay the consequences\u201d<\/p>\n

Longwei form was rigid; his face, livid.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will not obey!\u00a0 You are a soft old fool, Da Chao!\u00a0 You are not strong.\u201d\u00a0 Longwei drew a breath and glanced at the cooling corpse of the rebel tong leader.\u00a0 \u201cOnce I believed Khu Zhuang was strong.\u00a0 No more.\u201d\u00a0 The Dragon\u2019s<\/em> bouncer nodded to several of the men surrounding them.\u00a0 He thumped his chest and sneered as they stepped forward to support him.\u00a0 \u201cI, \u00a0Longwei, am the dragon!\u00a0 Now, I will rule!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam saw the flash of a knife in Longwei\u2019s hand and heard John Randolph shout in alarm. The Englishman feared for Biyu, but she wasn\u2019t the bouncer\u2019s target \u2013 not yet, at least.\u00a0 The infuriated man was headed straight for Da Chao.<\/p>\n

Pivoting on his heel, Adam sought his father\u2019s gaze.\u00a0 Pa was torn between aiding Da Chao and catching Biyu who had faltered and was beginning to topple over.\u00a0 Biyu won.\u00a0 Pa moved swiftly to her side and took hold of her.\u00a0 Unfortunately, what he hadn\u2019t<\/em> counted on was the extra weight she carried, which unbalanced him and took them both<\/em> to the ground.<\/p>\n

He was at his side in a minute.\u00a0 \u201cAre you hurt, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

His father shook his head as he cradled Biyu\u2019s small form.\u00a0 \u201cBiyu?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d she sobbed.\u00a0 \u201cThis one is not hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pa looked up at him and then turned toward Longwei and Da Chao who were standing still, facing one another.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, what just happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t know.\u00a0 Or at least, he didn\u2019t know until<\/em> he looked and noted the startled expression on Longwei\u2019s face, and then saw the crimson stain spreading slowly across the fabric of the Chinese man\u2019s elegant gray suit.<\/p>\n

Adam blinked with surprise as the Dragon\u2019s<\/em> bouncer crumpled to the ground.\u00a0 Stunned, he turned to Da Chao who once again, held a blade in his hand.\u00a0 \u201cWhy?\u201d he demanded.\u00a0 \u201cWhy?\u00a0 He was family!\u201d<\/p>\n

The tong leader met his bewildered stare; his face sphinx-like.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is ill done to chain a dragon for roasting your meat,\u201d he replied.<\/p>\n

In other words, Longwei had challenged Da Chao\u2019s authority for the last time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SIXTEEN<\/p>\n

He was running through the trees, desperate to escape what lay behind him.\u00a0 Little Joe Cartwright didn\u2019t know why or how he had come to be hunted like an animal, but he knew he was.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t know how long he\u2019d been running or what time of day it was either.\u00a0 It could have been dusk, but then again it might have been dawn.\u00a0 It was funny how the one \u2013 dawn \u2013 made a feller feel hopeful, while the other \u2013 well \u2013 dusk kind of stole that hope away.\u00a0 Whichever it was, the slanted light that fell through the opening between the tall pine trees wasn\u2019t enough to brighten the path he was hurrying along.\u00a0 The golden-red beams revealed some things, but hid even more.\u00a0 As he ran he kept catching his toe on hidden roots and stones and falling down, and every time he fell down, it took him longer to get up.<\/p>\n

Every time he fell down he was sure the devil chasing him was gonna catch him.<\/p>\n

And kill him.<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s heart pounded hard within his chest. \u00a0Breathing was a chore.\u00a0 Suckin\u2019 in air made his ribs scream and then his head scream, and then he<\/em> wanted to scream but he didn\u2019t dare.\u00a0 He had to clamp his teeth shut so he wouldn\u2019t.\u00a0 Had to tighten his jaw and keep quiet.\u00a0 Very quiet.<\/p>\n

Deathly <\/em>quiet.<\/p>\n

As Joe came to a fork in the road, he stopped.\u00a0 It was like the world before him split in two.\u00a0 One path led into a sunlit meadow.\u00a0 The heads of a thousand colorful wild flowers dotted it like a crazy quilt.\u00a0 They danced in warm morning light, sweet-talkin\u2019 him; urging him to fall down among them and rest.<\/p>\n

In the other direction lay a moonstruck glade.\u00a0 There were flowers there too, but they were sickly; their pale white heads shut against the moonlight that fell like gray dust on blue-green blades of grass.\u00a0 A silver stream meandered through its center, rippling, gurgling, calling.<\/p>\n

Calling his name.<\/p>\n

Joe turned his head toward the brilliant meadow.\u00a0 The cheery sunshine called him, promising him peace and an end to his pain.\u00a0 All he had to do was step into the light.\u00a0 \u2018You are imprisoned now<\/em>,\u2019 the flowers proclaimed.\u00a0 \u2018Come<\/em>\u2019, join us<\/em> and be free.\u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n

Entranced, he took a step in the direction of the light.\u00a0 But then he heard his name again, comin\u2019 out of the darkness.\u00a0 The voice sounded like it came from a long distance away.\u00a0 Joe halted and turned back.\u00a0 He knew that there was a promise in the dark too, though it hadn\u2019t been mentioned.\u00a0 Still, it didn\u2019t matter.\u00a0 He was afraid of the dark.\u00a0 That\u2019s where nightmares came from.<\/p>\n

As the curly-haired youth turned his feet once again toward the meadow, the voice spoke.\u00a0 This time it said something more than his name.<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph. You don\u2019t want to go out there, son.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

Joe lips opened and though no sound came out, still he spoke the word.<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on back.\u00a0 Here, son, over here.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Joe turned toward the moonlit glade.\u00a0 Its dark whisperings filled him with fear.\u00a0 \u2018I don\u2019t want to, Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You must, Joseph.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s eyes filled with tears.\u00a0 Light and peace beckoned, but so did his father.<\/p>\n

\u2018If I go, Pa, if I go into the light, will you miss me?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes, I will.\u00a0 Come on, son\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

Sadness echoed through his soul.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t know if I can, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

The beloved voice was faint, far-distant.<\/p>\n

Insistent.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can make it.\u00a0 Joseph, come on.\u00a0 Come back to me.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, come on.\u00a0 Come back to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey O\u2019Rourke watched as Ben tenderly stroked his youngest son\u2019s forehead and called to him.\u00a0 They had been back at the Ponderosa for only a short time.\u00a0 She\u2019d known the minute Hoss laid his little brother in the back of the wagon that things were bad.<\/p>\n

Thank God, Paul Martin had been with them!<\/p>\n

The physician had immediately tended to Joseph, though there wasn\u2019t a great deal he could do in the field.\u00a0 Paul made the boy comfortable and gave him something for the pain. Joe had been completely exhausted and fallen into the deep sleep from which he had yet to rouse.<\/p>\n

Once back at the house Little Joe\u2019s fever had spiked and become life-threatening.\u00a0 Paul called for ice the moment they entered the house, sending Hop Sing scrambling.\u00a0 As she watched Joe being borne up the stairs in his father\u2019s arms, she\u2019d had a flash of Adam and Hoss\u2019 faces as they looked when she and their father departed.\u00a0 Those boys hearts went with their brother.\u00a0 Ben was so blessed to have such wonderful sons.\u00a0 The pair had wanted to make sure Da Chao would no longer be a threat to their family, so they had stayed behind to mop things up.<\/p>\n

Ben had moved to sit beside Little Joe on the bed.\u00a0 Rosey smiled as she used the boy\u2019s nickname.\u00a0 He had told her quite clearly that he was just plain \u2018Joe\u2019, but looking at him now \u2013 so frail and fighting a ferocious fever \u2013 he looked like a little boy.\u00a0 Ben said it was his wife Marie that had given him that name.\u00a0 \u2018Mon petit Joseph\u2019<\/em>, she would say, referring to her baby\u2019s diminutive size.\u00a0 Ben said they had almost lost Joe when he was born early.<\/p>\n

So many tragedies in this man\u2019s life.\u00a0 So many joys.<\/p>\n

Rosey left the pair alone and crossed to the window to look out on the new day.\u00a0 They had arrived just as the sun crowned over the tall Ponderosa pines.\u00a0 It was nearing noon and she looked out hoping to see Ben\u2019s other boys.\u00a0 Little Joe needed Hoss and Adam but, even more so, their father needed them.\u00a0 He needed their strength and support.<\/p>\n

Doctor Martin had left the bedroom a short time before shaking his head.<\/p>\n

Crossing back to the handsome rancher sat, Rosey placed a hand on his shoulder and waited for Ben to look up.\u00a0 \u201cWhy don\u2019t you go down and get something to eat?\u201d she softly suggested.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll keep watch while you\u2019re gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

He shook his head as she knew he would.\u00a0 Paul had warned her.\u00a0 \u201cNo thank you, Rosey.\u00a0 I want to be here when Joseph awakens.\u201d<\/p>\n

When<\/em>, not if.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow about if I go down and fix you something then?\u00a0 Will you eat it if I bring it up?\u201d<\/p>\n

He opened his mouth to decline, but thought better of it.\u00a0 \u201cThat would be lovely. Thank you for understanding.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey leaned over and placed a hand on Joe\u2019s bare arm.\u00a0 The boy was shockingly hot, even buried in ice.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s a fighter,\u201d she said.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019ll pull through.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought he was about to rouse a few moments ago,\u201d Ben said, his voice wistful.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph shifted and murmured something.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t catch the words.\u201d<\/p>\n

One of them was certainly \u2018pa\u2019, she thought with a smile.\u00a0 She had never seen a boy so attached to his father as Joe.<\/p>\n

Leaning over even further, Rosey planted a kiss on the boy\u2019s pale forehead.\u00a0 As she straightened up, he shifted under the covers and stirred.<\/p>\n

Ben eyed her and then rose to let her take his place.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d she asked.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe, can you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Again the shifting.\u00a0 Another murmur.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s black eyes were fixed on his son, but he spoke to her.\u00a0 \u201cTry again.\u201d<\/p>\n

She shifted the chair closer and reached out.\u00a0 Her fingers went to Little Joe\u2019s curls and began to comb them, pushing the lush brown locks back and out of the boy\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe.\u201d\u00a0 Rosey drew a breath.\u00a0 She hoped she was doing the right thing.\u00a0 \u201cMon petit Joseph<\/em>, can you wake up for me?\u201d\u00a0 She disregarded Ben\u2019s audible intake of breath.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph?\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s lips parted.\u00a0 A breath came out, not quite a word but more than a sigh.<\/p>\n

\u201cMama….?\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey glanced at Ben.\u00a0 There were tears in his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u2018Should I?\u2019 she asked with her own.<\/p>\n

The rancher looked at his son and nodded.<\/p>\n

The older woman shifted onto the bed.\u00a0 It broke her heart to think of this child who had been torn from his mother at such a tender age.\u00a0 Losing a parent \u2013 either parent \u2013 was traumatic, but a boy and his mother, well, she knew the bond that was there.\u00a0 Taking his hand in hers, she tried again.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I need you to wake up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPeaceful,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s peaceful, Joseph?\u00a0 Can you tell me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c…here.\u201d<\/p>\n

While acting as a scout, she\u2019d aided the company\u2019s medic many times.\u00a0 She\u2019d sat by the side of a dozen dying men.\u00a0 Many had said the same thing just before they passed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt may be peaceful there, Joseph, but we need you here.\u201d\u00a0 She glanced up at Ben.\u00a0 His face had paled.\u00a0 She knew he had witnessed the same thing.\u00a0 Gripping Little Joe\u2019s hand more tightly, she went on.\u00a0 \u201cYou papa needs you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s hand came down on her shoulder and he leaned in.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph, it\u2019s Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s voice broke and he choked out the words, \u201cCome back to me, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe shifted again.\u00a0 His eyelids fluttered.\u00a0 \u201cDark.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben frowned at her.\u00a0 She shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201c…dark where you are.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey closed her eyes.\u00a0 She drew in a breath and let it out slowly.\u00a0 He was right.\u00a0 Joe was right.\u00a0 It was <\/em>dark where they were. \u00a0Men were evil.\u00a0 The world was full of anguish and pain.<\/p>\n

And bright lights like Little Joe Cartwright.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d she began, \u201cLittle Joe, I know you want to go into the light.\u00a0 You\u2019re right, it\u2019s peaceful there.\u00a0 But we need you here to shine and chase away the darkness.\u00a0 Your father needs you.\u00a0 Your brothers need you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben had moved to the opposite side of the bed and taken a seat.\u00a0 He gripped Joe\u2019s other hand in his own powerful one.\u00a0 \u201cSon, feel this.\u00a0 I am holding on to you.\u00a0 You remember that time you fell into the well?\u00a0 I caught you just before you went into the water.\u00a0 I held onto you….\u201d\u00a0 Ben sucked in air.\u00a0 \u201cI held you over that darkness knowing I couldn\u2019t let go or I\u2019d lose you.\u00a0 I won\u2019t let you go, son.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t then and I can\u2019t now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes flicked open startling them both.\u00a0 With unexpected clarity he looked from one of them to the other, and then his eyes closed again.<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at her.\u00a0 There was terror in his gaze.\u00a0 Trembling, she reached out a hand and placed it on Joe\u2019s chest and gave thanks when she found a steady heartbeat.\u00a0 When she turned to Ben with a smile on her face a few seconds later, the handsome rancher was puzzled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019s sleeping.\u00a0 Really <\/em>sleeping,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s father reached out and placed a hand on his son\u2019s forehead.\u00a0 \u201cI think you\u2019re right. His fever\u2019s down.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey did the same.\u00a0 Her smile broadened.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben was looking at her now.\u00a0 Those black eyes of his, well, they were startling in their beauty and depth.\u00a0 Just as unique as the man they belonged to.\u00a0\u00a0 He reached out to take her hand but changed his mind.\u00a0 Leaning across his son\u2019s legs, the handsome rancher caught her chin in his hand and then leaned in and kissed her.<\/p>\n

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

Rosey laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u2019 she said, after kissing him back.\u00a0 \u201cThank you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam came in the door ahead of Hoss.\u00a0 When he found the great room empty, he headed for the stairs.\u00a0 He was about halfway there when the door opened again to admit his giant of a brother.\u00a0 At the same time Hop Sing came from the kitchen wing carrying a bucket of ice.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that for little brother?\u201d Hoss asked, worry in his tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe fever very high.\u00a0 Doctor worried.\u00a0 Take more ice to cool him down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can take the ice back to the cooling room, Hop Sing.\u00a0 Joseph won\u2019t be needing it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked up to find his weary and exhausted father standing at the top of the stairs.\u00a0 He moved closer.\u00a0 \u201cJoe?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Pa descended several steps.\u00a0 \u201cYour brother\u2019s fever broke just now.\u201d\u00a0 His father looked around.\u00a0 \u201cWhere\u2019s Paul?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor asleep in guest\u00a0 room,\u201d their cook replied.\u00a0 \u201cYou want Hop Sing should wake him?\u201d<\/p>\n

As Pa completed his descent he shook his head. \u201cNo, let him sleep.\u00a0 He\u2019s earned it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s really gonna be all right, Pa?\u00a0 For sure?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

The older man puffed out a breath as he dropped into his chair.\u00a0 \u201cNothin\u2019 is for certain, son, other than God\u2019s goodness, but I believe your brother will recover.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI told you Joe was tough, Adam.\u00a0 Didn\u2019t I?\u201d\u00a0 The big man was grinning.\u00a0 \u201cCan I go up and sit with him, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam smiled too.\u00a0 Hoss was like an eager puppy \u2013 a very big<\/em> eager puppy.\u00a0 His happiness was contagious.<\/p>\n

\u201cRosey is with him now,\u201d their father answered.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sure she would be glad for you to relieve her.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think she\u2019s had anything to eat since she was taken.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked embarrassed.\u00a0 \u201cI done forgot to ask.\u00a0 Is Miss Rosey all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam turned.\u00a0 Coming down the stairs was a most enchanting vision.\u00a0 Rosey O\u2019Rourke was tired, her dress was rumpled and her hair loose and decorated with twigs and leaves.<\/p>\n

She was one of the most beautiful women he had ever seen.<\/p>\n

His father was up and on his feet in an instant.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph?\u201d he demanded, concerned.<\/p>\n

\u201cAwake and asking for you,\u201d the lovely woman said.\u00a0 \u201cI told him I\u2019d come and get you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou want Hop Sing come with you now and take ice away?\u201d their cook asked.<\/p>\n

Pa shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cGive me five minutes, then both you and Hoss come up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s smile broadened.\u00a0 His pa had been moving like an old man the last time he\u2019d seen him.\u00a0 He took the steps now like Joe usually did, two at a time.<\/p>\n

Rosey finished her descent and went to sit in one of the chairs by the fire.\u00a0 She remained still a moment and then shuddered.<\/p>\n

Adam crossed over to her.\u00a0 \u201cAre you all right?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

She nodded.\u00a0 \u201cJust being foolish.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t help but see that awful man leaping over the settee and heading for Biyu.\u201d<\/p>\n

Biyu, Dandan, and John would be returning soon.\u00a0 They\u2019d gone into the settlement to gather the few items the women had left behind at Beth Riley\u2019s and to let the older woman know they were all right.\u00a0 He\u2019d asked them to stop in and bring Roy Coffee up to date.\u00a0 While they\u2019d been gone Roy had come to the house to investigate the murders of both Richard Jennings and Jim Sanders.\u00a0 The lawman was not going to be happy to learn that He and Hoss had let Da Chao and his men go, though the fact that the man who had committed most of the crimes in the last week was dead would most likely mollify Roy\u2019s sense of justice some.<\/p>\n

Decisions had had to be made and made quickly.\u00a0 Once they\u2019d gained the upper hand Da Chao had became friendly enough. He\u2019d confirmed the fact that Biyu was free and, to show how magnanimous he was, freed Dandan as well.\u00a0 John Randolph was a harder sell, but in the end the Chinese tong leader saw the writing on the wall.\u00a0 Of course that was after he\u2019d pulled him aside and explained just how rich and how important the Randolphs were in England and advised the tong leader that, while the English tended to be an unemotional and remote people, John\u2019s brother Jude was another matter.<\/p>\n

Adam smiled.\u00a0 He might have overemphasized Jude\u2019s savage nature just a bit.<\/p>\n

In the end Da Chao and his own savage hoard had gotten on their horses and high-tailed it for Vallejo.\u00a0 The tong leader was guilty of nothing \u2013 at least nothing they could pin on him and make stick.\u00a0 His killing of both Khu Zhuang and Longwei had been in self-defense, and there was no way they could tie him convincingly to either Richard or Jim\u2019s deaths.\u00a0\u00a0 In spite of this, he\u2019d been all for hauling the tall thin man back to Virginia City to make him face some<\/em> kind of charges.\u00a0 It had been Hop Sing who had changed his mind.\u00a0 The man from China told him it wasn\u2019t a good thing to leave a live dragon out of your calculations if he was anywhere near you.<\/p>\n

In other words, if they went after Da Chao, he would come after them.<\/p>\n

He remembered feeling numb as he stood there, watching the tong leader and his followers disappear into the morning mist, almost as if they had never been.\u00a0 As if they had never come to his house and threatened his family and left his little brother almost dead.<\/p>\n

Waiting on God\u2019s justice was a hard thing at the best of times.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d a light voice called.\u00a0 \u201cA little while back, I offered your father a penny for his thoughts.\u00a0 I believe yours might cost me more.\u201d<\/p>\n

He started, and then laughed.\u00a0 \u201cRosey, there\u2019s not enough money in the whole state of Nevada.\u201d<\/p>\n

The lovely woman nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYou know, though it looked bleak there for a while, in the end everything came out as I knew it would.\u00a0 You Cartwrights are indomitable.\u201d<\/p>\n

Strong.\u00a0 Resolute.\u00a0 Unconquerable. \u00a0Stubborn and tough.\u00a0 Yeah, that was them.<\/p>\n

It was Rosey too.<\/p>\n

He was silent a moment and then he said, \u201cYou belong here, you know.\u201d\u00a0 A second later he was apologizing.\u00a0 Her eyes had filled with tears.\u00a0 \u201cRosey, forgive me.\u201d<\/p>\n

She shook her head and sniffed.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s all right.\u00a0 I feel it too, but….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s Rory.\u201d<\/p>\n

The beautiful older woman nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYes.\u00a0 His life is in San Francisco now and so my life must be too \u2013 for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam took her hand and squeezed it.\u00a0 \u201cBut maybe not forever?\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey squeezed back.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe not forever.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben opened the door into Joseph\u2019s room a crack and peeked in.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t want to wake the ailing boy if he had fallen asleep again.\u00a0 He needn\u2019t have worried.\u00a0 Little Joe had worked his way up onto his pillows and was looking at him from out of a nest of blankets and ice.<\/p>\n

As he stepped in, he asked, \u201cHow are you, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe shivered. \u201cCold.\u201d<\/p>\n

He immediately went over to the bed. \u00a0Now that Joseph\u2019s fever had broken, the ice they had packed him in presented as much of a threat as the heat that had baked him before.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere.\u00a0 Let\u2019s get you out of that bed and into some dry clothes.\u00a0 Hop Sing and your brother will be up in a minute and they\u2019ll get things fixed up so you are nice and warm.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe was so feeble it troubled him, but the rancher hid his fear and smiled as he helped the boy make the short journey from his sodden bed to the chair by the window.\u00a0 He placed Joseph in it and wrapped a warm blanket topped with a coverlet about his slender form before going to the bureau.\u00a0 \u201cAny requests?\u201d he asked, just to have something to say.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like my old nightshirt, Pa. You know, the blue and white striped one Adam gave me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m surprised that still fits,\u201d he remarked as he rummaged in the drawers.<\/p>\n

Joe was silent a moment.\u00a0 \u201cIt should now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben froze with his fingers on the shirt.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ll gain the weight back quickly, son.\u00a0 Hop Sing will see to it.\u201d\u00a0 Crossing over to his boy with the requested garment, he asked, \u201cAny other reason you wanted this particular one?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s smile was sad and sweet.\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t you remember, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

He hated to admit it, but he didn\u2019t.\u00a0 \u201cRemember what?\u201d<\/p>\n

As Joe accepted the shirt, his eyes took on a faraway look. \u00a0\u201cMama got it for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben frowned.\u00a0 Perhaps Joseph was still confused.\u00a0 \u201cSon, your mother was dead long before you got that night shirt.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe coughed.\u00a0 Thankfully it was a small, shallow one.\u00a0 \u201cOh, I know that. \u00a0This ain\u2019t the exact shirt, but it\u2019s just like it.\u00a0 Adam told me so when he gave it to me.\u201d\u00a0 The boy sat there for a moment, fingering the worn fabric.\u00a0 \u201cPa….\u201d<\/p>\n

He pulled up a chair and sat beside his son.\u00a0 \u201cYes, Joseph?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWas that mama I heard?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben reached out and touched his son\u2019s hand.\u00a0 \u201cCalling you back, you mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe drew a breath and let it out slowly.\u00a0 \u201cI was at a kind of crossroads, Pa.\u00a0 It looked like spring on one side of me and, well, like winter on the other.\u00a0 The sun was shining to my right, the flowers were dancing in the breeze.\u00a0 It was so pretty, so peaceful….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou wanted to go there,\u201d he said softly.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I did.\u201d\u00a0 Joe looked up at him, the expression in his green eyes hard to read, but intense.\u00a0 \u201cBut I couldn\u2019t.\u00a0 I heard someone calling me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was Rosey, Joseph.\u00a0 Not your mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI know.\u00a0 But for a minute, Pa, for just a few seconds, I…believed it was her.\u201d<\/p>\n

There it was again.\u00a0 That feeling that he had known when Joseph had the measles and had called out for his deceased mother \u2013 that moment when he had known he was not enough.<\/p>\n

Only this time he didn\u2019t feel hopeless.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think Marie was here, son, in spirit.\u00a0 I believe it was she who called you back.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tears were falling from Joseph\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 The boy sniffed and then smiled that little crooked smile of his.\u00a0 \u201cIt wasn\u2019t mama, Pa.\u00a0 It was you.\u00a0 I came back for you<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was a good thing Hoss and Hop Sing chose that moment to enter the room, otherwise he would have dissolved into a puddle.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey there, short-shanks, you look like a drown-ded rat!\u201d Hoss exclaimed jovially.\u00a0 \u201cWhat\u2019s say we get you out of them wet clothes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat you do, sit there while boy shivers?\u201d Hop Sing exclaimed.\u00a0 \u201cYou get out of way. \u00a0Hop Sing take over.\u00a0 Everything be okay!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben shifted out of the way as Hop Sing bustled over to the bed and began to remove the wet bedclothes and the remainder of the ice.\u00a0 At the same time Hoss crossed over to Joe and started to work his brother\u2019s wet clothing off of him.\u00a0 The tenderness the big man showed was a blessing to observe.\u00a0 Joe smiled up at his giant of a brother and then sank back into the chair and closed his eyes, content for once to let others take care of him.<\/p>\n

As quietly as he could, Ben moved toward the door, content as well to let others have their moment with this boy they loved, who had just returned to them from the precipice of death.\u00a0 If he knew his sons \u2013 and he knew<\/em> he did \u2013 it wouldn\u2019t be long before Adam joined them.\u00a0 There was something about Joseph that drew others to him like a magnet.<\/p>\n

As he placed his hand on the door, he heard a soft call.<\/p>\n

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

Turning back he saw Joseph was attired in his blue and white night-shirt and sitting on the side of the bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s grin was a little shy.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just wanted to tell you I love you.\u201d<\/p>\n

His gaze met Hoss\u2019s over Joe\u2019s head.\u00a0 The big man was teary.<\/p>\n

He was teary too.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, son.\u00a0 You know I love you too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe nodded and then let Hoss shift him into the bed.\u00a0 He started to leave again, but that same voice called him back.<\/p>\n

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

Ben turned toward his boy again.\u00a0 \u201cYes, Joseph?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen are you gonna marry Rosey?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen am I..?\u201d\u00a0 He huffed.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u201cJoseph, whatever gave you the idea that I was going to marry Rosey?\u201d<\/p>\n

His son wrinkled his nose.\u00a0 \u201cWell, I think you should.\u00a0 How about you, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was grinning.\u00a0 \u201cI already bought me a suit and Adam got himself a brand new tie.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think maybe that\u2019s a little premature?\u201d the older man demanded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m growin\u2019 up, Pa.\u00a0 Fact is, I\u2019m almost a man,\u201d Joseph said soberly.\u00a0 \u201cI think I\u2019m mature enough for a new ma.\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t know whether to laugh or cry.<\/p>\n

\u201cYoung man, whatever is between Rosey and myself is just that \u2013 between Rosey and myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, we got that, Pa,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Pa,\u201d his little scamp agreed.\u00a0 \u201cBut you see, well, sometimes you\u2019re a little bit of a stick-in-the-mud and we thought you might need a kind of push \u2013\u00a0 Hey, Pa!\u00a0 No!\u00a0 Don\u2019t throw that!\u00a0 I\u2019m sick, remember!\u201c<\/p>\n

He\u2019d never been so glad that Joseph kept a chair with a pillow on it by the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

EPILOGUE<\/p>\n

It was a warm summer day.\u00a0 A month had passed since the incident \u2013 well, really, since the Chinese tong leaders had brought their war to the Ponderosa.\u00a0 It was early July and most everyone at the ranch was busy moving the herd from the basin to a high mountain pasture.<\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright wasn\u2019t among them.<\/p>\n

He was sitting on that same old rock overlooking the river \u2013 the one he\u2019d used to launch himself at Butch all the way back in May.\u00a0 The sun was beating down on him, warming his skin and turning it a deep golden brown.\u00a0 He\u2019d pleaded and begged and even offered a bribe to Doctor Martin to let him go along with Hoss and Adam as they rode toward the high country, but the physician would have none of it.\u00a0 While it wasn\u2019t unusual for someone to carry a cough most every winter, or even have a bronchial catarrh, it wasn\u2019t just everyone who was lucky enough to have pneumonia two times in five years.\u00a0 Doc Martin had told his pa that if he didn\u2019t rest and take it easy he might end up with weak lungs, and that a cattle drive where he would be breathing dust kicked up by a thousand head of beef was the last<\/em> place he should be.\u00a0 He\u2019d balked at that, but quickly bridled his tongue when he saw his father\u2019s look.\u00a0 The threat came after the doctor left.\u00a0 Either he did as the doctor said and stayed close to the ranch house for three whole months <\/em>or he wouldn\u2019t sit in a saddle until Christmas!\u00a0 For the most part he\u2019d obeyed.\u00a0 Oh, he\u2019d gone out riding Cochise a few times and kicked up a good bit of dust of his own, but the sad thing was those were the times when he realized Doc Martin was right.\u00a0 He\u2019d set to coughing and be near worn out by the time the fit ended.<\/p>\n

It scared him, truth to tell.\u00a0 He wanted to be big as Hoss and smart as Adam and able as his father, and here he was, small and scrawny and not even fit enough to make sure a cow stayed put where it was supposed to be.<\/p>\n

Pa had assigned him extra chores, including working on the books.\u00a0 Joe shook his head.\u00a0 Why anyone would want to spend their days in a stuffy old office, addin\u2019 and subtractin\u2019 numbers was beyond him.\u00a0 He leaned back on the hot rock and looked up at the crystal blue sky.\u00a0 The sun was shinin\u2019 and there was a soft breeze blowin\u2019.\u00a0 All around him the land was dotted with\u00a0 wild flower.<\/p>\n

The sight of them still made him shudder.<\/p>\n

With his eyes closed he thought about that moment when he\u2019d heard Rosey\u2019s voice.\u00a0 He\u2019d thought it was his ma\u2019s, of course.\u00a0 \u2018Mon petit Joseph\u2019.\u00a0 Mama had liked to call him that, even as he got bigger, and then he got stuck with it after she died. \u00a0Truth to tell, he didn\u2019t mind too much.\u00a0 Every time someone called him \u2018Little Joe\u2019, it made him think of her.\u00a0 But he was a man and a man had a hard path to walk if he went around with everyone callin\u2019 him \u2018little\u2019.\u00a0 The family didn\u2019t mean anythin\u2019 by it.<\/p>\n

Bullies like Butch MacTavish did.<\/p>\n

Butch\u2019d got his comeuppance all right.\u00a0 Roy Coffee had made a deal with his father so he didn\u2019t go to the territorial prison.\u00a0 This time he was sent away to a reform school run by someone other than his uncle and he was gonna be there three whole years!\u00a0 Butch wouldn\u2019t be out until after he <\/em>stopped attending school.<\/p>\n

He thanked God a lot the day he found that out.<\/p>\n

Life was funny.\u00a0 Tory had just been teasing. He knew that. She never meant for him to get hurt.\u00a0 But her teasing and taunting had been dangerous and nearly got him killed.\u00a0 Tory didn\u2019t get sent to no reform school, but she sure as shootin\u2019 got sent away.\u00a0 She ended up at Miss Abigail Elizabeth Bradshaw\u2019s Finishing School for girls in Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

It puzzled him, what there was about a girl that needed \u2018finishing\u2019.<\/p>\n

Yep, things had worked out in the end.\u00a0 Butch and Tory were gone and so was that Chow feller.\u00a0 The Chinese man gave his word to Adam that he would never return to the Ponderosa. \u00a0He\u2019d asked Adam if he believed him and he said he did.<\/p>\n

It was all about that honor thing again.<\/p>\n

Joe looked at the river as the word echoed in his head.\u00a0 He squinted, pretending it was the sun making his eyes water, but really it was thinking about Jian. \u00a0The Chinese warrior had given his life for him, or at least it seemed he had.\u00a0 Pa said he might of just crawled out of the river downstream and gone on his way once he saw everything was ended.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t think so.\u00a0 He knew Jian.\u00a0 He would have come back to make sure he was okay and to say goodbye.<\/p>\n

Still, he hoped Pa was right and he was wrong.<\/p>\n

Shifting, Joe pulled up the back of his shirt and let his ribcage rest on the sun-baked stone.\u00a0 It felt good and Doc Martin said it was good for him, that it\u2019d \u2018bake\u2019 what sickness was left right out of him.\u00a0 It really wasn\u2019t so bad laying here instead of riding and ropin\u2019 a thousand hot smelly steers.\u00a0 Still, he felt he had let his family down.<\/p>\n

Family.\u00a0 That was another thing he\u2019d learned something about.\u00a0 His family was, well, special.\u00a0 His pa had sat him down and told him everything that happened with Da Chao and Longwei \u2013 how Longwei had betrayed his uncle and then his uncle had killed him.\u00a0 He just couldn\u2019t imagine that.\u00a0 Say, Hoss or him thinking what other people thought of them was more important than Adam or Pa\u2019s life.\u00a0 Pa explained the Asian culture was different.\u00a0 They had different rules.\u00a0 But a father was a father and a son, a son.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t think culture or the color of your skin changed that.<\/p>\n

At least, it shouldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

Joe batted away a bug and sat up.\u00a0 It came back and he lifted his hand to strike it away again but stopped when he saw it was a beautiful butterfly.\u00a0 Its colors were blue and black with just a touch of red.\u00a0 It reminded him of the silk brocade dress Biyu had worn when she and John got married.\u00a0 In the end it turned out what she told Longwei was a lie.\u00a0 The baby she carried was John\u2019s.\u00a0 She\u2019d just been trying to protect him.\u00a0 A few days after he was pronounced fit enough to attend, they\u2019d held the wedding in the ranch house.\u00a0 Hop Sing had outdone himself decorating the great room with flowers and Chinese lanterns. The couple stayed with them about a week and then they, along with Dandan, climbed on a stage and headed east.\u00a0 They were going to travel to Philadelphia and take one of the tall ships there and sail back to England.\u00a0 Pa sent letters along with them to Jude.\u00a0 Joe drew in a breath.\u00a0 He missed Jude.\u00a0 Maybe one day he\u2019d get on one of those tall ships and sail to England just like them and pay him a visit.\u00a0 As he let the breath out, the curly-headed youth looked back up at the tall Ponderosa pines, the blue sky, and the white clouds.<\/p>\n

Or maybe not.<\/p>\n

A sound drew his attention.\u00a0 Joe sat up straight and pivoted on the rock so he could look at the road.\u00a0 A pair of horses had appeared \u2013 buckskin and black.\u00a0 Joe slid off the rock, straightened his shirt and ran a hand through his disobedient curls, and then went to greet the riders.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d he said with a nod.\u00a0 Then he smiled, \u201cMiss Rosey.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey sure looked perfect sitting there on her thoroughbred next to pa.\u00a0 He was sure<\/em> gonna miss her when she left.\u00a0 Rosey had got a letter from her son tellin\u2019 her that he was heading to Jennifer\u2019s house to talk to her parents and wouldn\u2019t be back home until August.\u00a0 The older woman decided to stay with them that whole time, except for when she went into town to help Mrs. Riley or work in Ming-hua\u2019s shop.\u00a0 He\u2019d watch his pa with her and somethin\u2019 about the way they talked and touched reminded him of his pa with his mama.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t remember much \u2013 practically nothing if you eliminated what his pa and brothers had told him \u2013 but there was somethin\u2019 there that was special. \u00a0\u2018Course, he\u2019d never seen his Pa with Inger or Adam\u2019s ma.\u00a0 Maybe he\u2019d talked to them the same way.\u00a0 Still, whenever he came around a corner and saw Rosey leaning over Pa\u2019s desk looking at a map, or pickin\u2019 up her needlework from a chair and for just a moment Pa\u2019s arm would wrap around her waist….<\/p>\n

He remembered that \u2013 on his own \u2013 his mama and his pa looking into each other\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

Joe sniffed and popped out a little sigh.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d tried it with Tory once.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t know what the big thing was about it.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, how are you feeling?\u201d Pa asked as he dismounted and crossed over to give Rosey a hand so she could do the same.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs chipper as a couple of jaybirds,\u201d he replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just as sassy, I imagine,\u201d Rosey said, her lips tight with a smile.<\/p>\n

Joe grinned. \u201cYes, ma\u2019am!\u201d<\/p>\n

His pa was looking at the river, a frown on his face.\u00a0 \u201cI was looking for you, Joseph.\u00a0 I might say I was surprised to find you here.\u201d<\/p>\n

He shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cWhat is it you always tell us, Pa?\u00a0 \u2018Not everything that is faced can change, but nothing can change until it\u2019s faced\u2019<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid I say that?\u201d his pa asked, surprised.\u00a0 \u201cI sound like a wise man.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t let it go to your head, Ben,\u201d the older woman remarked.\u00a0 \u201cAccidents happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe tried to stop it, but laughter bubbled up in him and broke out in a girl-high giggle.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, young man,\u201d his father said, mock stern, \u201cI thought I\u2019d taught you to respect your elders.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI am, Pa,\u201d he replied as he pointed at Rosey.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m respectin\u2019 her!\u201d<\/p>\n

His father laughed too.<\/p>\n

As he stood there with the sunshine pounding down on him and two of the most important people in his world right now right there, Joe suddenly remembered Pa had said he\u2019d been looking for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you want me for, Pa?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

His father\u2019s attention had strayed to the river again.\u00a0 He turned to look at him.\u00a0 \u201cOh, your brother Adam was looking for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u00a0 Ain\u2019t he….\u201d\u00a0 At his father\u2019s scowl, he backed up.\u00a0 \u201cIsn\u2019t he on the cattle drive?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour brother had to come back for supplies.\u00a0 He asked about you.\u201d\u00a0 Pa looked at Rosey.\u00a0 \u201cActually he asked if you could join him on the return journey.\u201d<\/p>\n

It took a second for that to sink in.\u00a0 When it did, he lit up like a candle.\u00a0 \u201cMe?\u00a0 Go on the drive?\u00a0 Really?\u201d<\/em> When his father said nothing, his hope waned.\u00a0 Joe winced and his dark eyebrows rolled.\u00a0 \u201c…maybe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI have my reservations, but it so happens that Adam ran into Doctor Martin on his rounds.\u00a0 They, of course, discussed your condition….\u201d<\/p>\n

Of course, like he was something you\u2019d read in the paper.<\/p>\n

\u201c…and the doctor said your progress had been more rapid than he expected and \u2013 if Adam would wait a day or two \u2013 you could go with him on the drive.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe hesitated, taking a minute to be sure he had heard what he thought he had heard, and then he let out a whoop that scattered all the birds in those pretty Ponderosa pines.<\/p>\n

\u201cWHOO-EE!!\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey laughed as his father winced.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Adam now?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt the house.\u00a0 He thought he\u2019d wait in case you wanted to go with him into town.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTown too?\u00a0 Gosh, Pa, you mean I been let out of the cage?\u201d<\/p>\n

His father pinned him with those black eyes. \u201cIt will be there waiting if you overextend or do anything your brothers tell you not to.\u00a0 Is that clear, young man?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cClear as mud, Pa,\u201d he answered and then grinned.<\/p>\n

It was comin\u2019, he knew it, and so he skedaddled toward Cochise where he\u2019d tethered him in the trees.\u00a0 Pa\u2019s hand got him anyway, with a good whack on the butt.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd no fancy or fast riding, you little scamp.\u00a0 I want you to get home in one piece.\u201d<\/p>\n

He was already on Cochise.\u00a0 Lifting his hat, Joe saluted both of them.\u00a0 \u201cSir,\u201d he said, \u201cMadame.\u00a0 Now don\u2019t you two do anythin\u2019 I wouldn\u2019t do!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took another step toward his wild and reckless boy as Joe nudged Cochise in the sides.\u00a0 His son was gone in a shot, headed for the Ponderosa with a second wild whoop, making enough noise to catch the attention of all of those who had gone before.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat am I going to do with that boy?\u201d he sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cEnjoy him,\u201d Rosey said, \u201cthey turn into men so quickly.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYes, they do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey came to join him.\u00a0 For a moment they stood side by side, then she reached out and took his hand. \u00a0Together they walked to the edge of the water and stood there watching the river run free \u2013 the river that had almost carried his son\u2019s life away.<\/p>\n

The river that had taken the life of a good man that, to this day, Joseph had a hard time talking about.<\/p>\n

\u201cA penny for your thoughts,\u201d Rosey said softly.<\/p>\n

Ben chuckled.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re going to go broke.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI will if you don\u2019t stop that pensive thinking.\u201d \u00a0The beautiful woman paused.\u00a0 \u201cIf Little Joe can sit here and enjoy the beauty of the river, I think you should be able to as well.\u00a0 You have to let go the \u2018what ifs\u2019, Ben, and live for the here and now.\u201d<\/p>\n

He turned toward her, startled.\u00a0 \u201cYou just saved yourself a penny!\u00a0 How did you….\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey took his other hand and swung him toward her.\u00a0 \u201cHow did I know what you were thinking?\u00a0 Ben Cartwright you are as transparent as winter ice.\u00a0 Your whole heart is wrapped up in those boys, in protecting them, instructing them.\u00a0 In loving them.\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked into her deep brown eyes.\u00a0 \u201cNot my whole<\/em> heart,\u201d he said softly.\u00a0 \u201cThere\u2019s room in there for one more.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey moved closer and laid her head against his chest.\u00a0 \u201cBen, I….\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShh.\u201d\u00a0 He lifted a hand and cupped her head, relishing the feel of her rose-scented silken hair.\u00a0 \u201cI know.\u00a0 Let\u2019s not talk about it.\u00a0 We have today and that\u2019s enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere you go,\u201d she said, puffing out a little breath.\u00a0 \u201cThrowing my own words back at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got pretty good aim, or so Joseph tells me.\u201d<\/p>\n

She shifted in a little closer and then looked up at him.\u00a0 \u201cHold me, will you?\u00a0 For just a little while?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben obliged.\u00a0 He walked her over to the rock his son had been perched on and sat down beside her and wrapped her in his arms.\u00a0 They sat there together, silently, for some time, simply letting the river run on, the breeze blow by, and the time they had left together tick away.<\/p>\n

It was Rosey, again, who broke the silence.\u00a0 \u201cI love you, Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

He squeezed her a bit.\u00a0 \u201cI know.\u00a0 I love you too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey shifted so she was looking at him.\u00a0 The rising light struck her, turning her brown hair bronze and erasing the years until he was sure he looked at the bright young woman she had once been.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think….\u201d<\/p>\n

He reached out to brush a tear from her cheek.\u00a0 \u201cGod alone knows, Rosey, and I mean that.\u00a0 While you and I can\u2019t see a way, if it\u2019s His will for us to be together, then He\u2019ll see to it.\u00a0 For now, we know what we know, and we both know our sons need us more than we need each other.\u201d<\/p>\n

Another tear slipped down her cheek.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s got to be a pretty big<\/em> need, Mister Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI agree. Mrs. O\u2019Rourke.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cKiss me?\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

Ben smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI thought you\u2019d never ask.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosey\u2019s brown eyes danced in the rising light.\u00a0 \u201cMake it a good one.\u00a0 It\u2019s got to last me a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taking her small waist in his hands, he pulled her close.<\/p>\n

\u201cI promise, I\u2019ll make it one you\u2019ll never <\/em>forget.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Next Story in the Blood and Bread Series<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

An Unspeakable Dawn<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tags:\u00a0 Adam Cartwright,\u00a0Ben Cartwright,\u00a0ESA,\u00a0ESJ,\u00a0Hop Sing,\u00a0Hoss Cartwright,\u00a0hostage,\u00a0Joe \/ Little Joe Cartwright,\u00a0kidnap,\u00a0SJS<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

SUMMARY: Continuing the story of Ben and Rosey O’ Rourke.\u00a0 In this sequel to ‘Keep Your Eyes on the Sun’, things seem normal at the Ponderosa ranch.\u00a0 Ben, Adam and Hoss are hard at work and Little Joe is in trouble.\u00a0 What Joe’s family cannot know is that his trouble will soon draw them into a war that will end only when the victor possesses an ancient Chinese stone that, unbeknownst to them, has come to the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

Rated PG-13 for typical western violence and bad guy brutality.<\/p>\n

Word count: 83,100<\/p>\n

Blood and Bread Series, links to stories of this series included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10058,"featured_media":30518,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,23,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15572","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actionadventure","category-drama","category-prequels","wpcat-2-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-30-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":4302,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Joe-chagrin.jpg?fit=2110%2C2439&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":62283,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=62283","url_meta":{"origin":15572,"position":0},"title":"Double Trouble (by JC)","author":"JC","date":"June 15, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A glimpse into the future with grandchildren on the Ponderosa. Ben gets more than he bargained for when he offers to keep Joe's twins while their parents are away.\u00a0 (Part of the Jacob's Ladder series, links below.) 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Can the Cartwrights survive being drawn into the tangled web woven by the choices Rosey O'Rourke made long ago? 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