{"id":1574,"date":"2003-11-05T14:56:33","date_gmt":"2003-11-05T19:56:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1574"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:07:38","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:07:38","slug":"singled-out","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1574","title":{"rendered":"Singled Out (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0A<\/strong>s the only witness willing to testify to a murder, Joe finds himself singled out. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0(10,095 words)
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/a>Singled Out<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

By Rona<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright,\u201d growled a low voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing by the punch table, getting a drink for himself and his date, Joe Cartwright stiffened. \u201cWhat do you want, Jennings?\u201d he asked, warily, not looking at the other man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re marked, Cartwright,\u201d Jennings hissed. \u201cJust remember that! You\u2019re marked!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jennings sidled away into the crowd of revelers, Joe dropped the ladle back into the punch bowl and put the cup down absently. So it was out, and he was a marked man. He drew in an unsteady breath. He would have to mind his back for sure now.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThere\u2019s smoke!\u201d Joe declared as he and a group of his friends rode over to Tony Parson\u2019s house. Tony and his family had arrived in Virginia City a few months before and he and Joe had become fast friends, with Tony joining the crowd that Joe hung out with.\u00a0 On this particular evening, Tony\u2019s mother had invited his friends over for supper.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like its coming from the Parsons\u2019 place,\u201d Mitch Devlin agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on!\u201d Joe urged, kicking his pinto into a gallop. Mike Abbott, Jeff Campbell and Don Foster all hesitated momentarily before following. They weren\u2019t so sure they wanted to get involved in fire fighting.\u00a0 But in all conscience, they couldn\u2019t avoid going to help. It was one of the obligations of living in such a tough landscape. Everyone helped out everyone else.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they drew nearer, Joe and Mitch in the front, they could see that both the house and the barn were well alight. \u201cGet the horses out of the barn!\u201d Joe ordered as he slithered down from Cochise and turned his horse loose into the meadow, away from danger. \u201cI\u2019ll check the house!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, wait!\u201d Mitch cried, but he was talking to himself. Joe was already running over to the burning homestead.<\/span><\/p>\n

He was at the foot of the porch steps when the door opened and four youths barreled out. Without hesitating, they literally ran Joe over, knocking him to the ground and kicking him while he was down for good measure. Joe knew them all and as he dragged himself to his feet, wincing, he saw the Jennings brothers leap onto horses and ride away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Seeing Mike coming across, Joe waved him away and headed into the house. He knew that the Parsons must be there somewhere. Smoke eddied in his face and Joe dragged out a bandanna and clutched it to his nose, coughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

The parlor was empty, although the table was set in there for supper. Joe went on through into the kitchen, but the fire was so fierce in there that he was forced to retreat, unable to tell if there was someone in there.<\/span><\/p>\n

The other downstairs room was also empty. Joe glanced apprehensively at the flames now licking the door between parlor and kitchen. He didn\u2019t have long, he knew, but he had to find Tony and his family. He raced upstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

All the doors upstairs stood open, bar one. Joe tried the handle, gasping at the heat coming from it. The door was locked. Immediately, Joe threw his weight against the door. Three times he hit it before the lock sprang and Joe catapulted into the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

The heat was horrific and Joe realized this room was directly above the blazing kitchen. Mrs. Parsons was tied to a chair. Mr. Parsons and Tony were tied back to back, and they were all gagged. Joe knelt by Tony and his father, dragging out his knife and slicing through their bonds. \u201cGet out!\u201d he yelled, above the noise and the smoke. \u201cI\u2019ll get your mother!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Tony and his father rose shakily to their feet, Joe hurried across to Mrs. Parsons and began to cut her bonds. He helped her to her feet, but it was clear that she was much too shaken to walk. Joe stowed away his knife and picked her up.<\/span><\/p>\n

The smoke was thicker than ever, and Joe could no longer hold the bandanna over his face. He began to cough at once. Mrs. Parsons appeared to have fainted, for her head rested heavily on Joe\u2019s shoulder and she was completely limp. When he had first lifted her, Joe had thought she weighed very little, but with every step he took, her weight seemed to increase.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a roar, the outside wall of the room burst into flames. Joe felt the heat licking his back as he staggered towards the door. The very air seemed to burn as he drew it into his lungs. But he couldn\u2019t rest now, as he wanted. He had to keep going and get Mrs. Parsons to safety.<\/span><\/p>\n

Reaching the top of the stairs, Joe leant for a moment against the wall. His chest was heaving as he fought to get the air he required and his head was swimming from the thick smoke that eddied around him. Joe suddenly realized that the wall he was leaning against was hot \u2013 very hot! With a ragged cry, he straightened and started to descend the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Three quarters of the way down, Joe lost his footing and tumbled to the floor. Somehow, he managed to twist around so that Mrs. Parsons was cushioned against him, but he was winded and lay there for several seconds before getting his breath back.<\/span><\/p>\n

The whole house was ablaze now and he was finding it increasingly difficult to concentrate his thoughts as the smoke affected his thinking. But the survival instinct was strong in Joe, and he somehow got to his feet and staggered towards the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

He burst through into the clearer air outside and fell down the porch steps. This time, he was unable to keep hold of Mrs. Parsons and she rolled across the ground. Joe simply could not get up. He wheezed and coughed as he tried to get air. The wind fanned more smoke over him. Joe closed his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Then there were hands there, dragging him away from the burning house. It was the last thing Joe remembered as he plunged into unconsciousness.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHello, Mitch,\u201d Ben Cartwright exclaimed in surprise, as he opened his door to the frantic knocking. He gazed at the youth in disbelief, for he was liberally streaked with soot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, there\u2019s been a fire,\u201d Mitch panted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA fire?\u201d Ben echoed. \u201cWhere?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt the Parsons. Come quick!\u201d He tugged at Ben\u2019s sleeve.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait!\u201d Ben ordered, confused. \u201cI\u2019ll get some men.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you don\u2019t understand,\u201d Mitch cried. \u201cJoe\u2019s been hurt. He\u2019s at Doc Martin\u2019s and they want you to come quick.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be right there,\u201d Ben agreed, his heart in his mouth. He turned back into the house and saw that both Hoss and Adam, who had gone upstairs to get ready for bed, were standing there. \u201cJoe\u2026\u201d he began but Adam interrupted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe heard. We\u2019re coming, too, Pa.\u201d They hurried over to the door, snatched up hats and gun belts and headed out to the barn for their horses, while Mitch panted out the whole story.<\/span><\/p>\n

The ride into town was essentially silent and Ben kept his heel to his horse all the way. He raced along the main street and pulled up before the doctor\u2019s office. He carelessly hitched his horse and hurried inside, Adam, Hoss and Mitch on his heels.<\/span><\/p>\n

The waiting room was full. Mr. Parsons and Tony were there, also covered in soot and coughing steadily. Mike, Jeff and Don fidgeted uncertainly in a corner. \u201cWhere\u2019s Joe?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hearing the voice, Dr Paul Martin came out. He looked grim and Ben\u2019s heart leapt into his mouth and started beating at twice its usual speed. He found he couldn\u2019t talk. But Paul didn\u2019t address Ben at once. He went over and sat beside Mr. Parsons. \u201cI\u2019m very sorry,\u201d he said, quietly. \u201cYour wife passed away a few moments ago. I\u2019m so sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Parsons dissolved into tears. Tony\u2019s face drained of all color and his eyes were wide. Ben\u2019s heart went out to the bereaved family, and he feared even more for his son. \u201cI\u2019m so sorry,\u201d he muttered, brokenly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like to see her?\u201d Paul asked and Parsons nodded. Paul gave Ben a look as he led the Parsons into the other room. He was back a few moments later.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, boys, come in, please,\u201d Paul asked, and stood back to allow the Cartwrights into the consulting room.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Parsons were not there, for which Ben was thankful. Joe lay on the examination table, his eyes closed. As Ben hurried over to him, he began to cough, a deep, harsh noise as his body tried to rid itself of the poisons he had inhaled. \u201cJoe?\u201d Ben whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

For a brief instant, Joe opened his eyes. They looked very green in the smoke-streaked pallor of his face. But he didn\u2019t say anything and his eyes drifted closed again at once.\u00a0 Ben glanced over at Paul.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s going to be all right,\u201d Paul assured him. \u201cHe\u2019s inhaled a lot of smoke, Ben and he was unconscious for quite a while. He hasn\u2019t banged his head, though, which is good. He apparently fell down the porch steps and he\u2019s sprained his ankle. Apart from that, he has some minor burns on his right arm and left hand. His throat is also very raw. But he\u2019s going to be just fine,\u201d he reiterated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know what happened?\u201d Adam asked as Ben sat down beside Joe and drew the blankets back. Joe\u2019s right arm was bandaged, as was his left hand. Joe lay on his left side and Ben could see that his back was pink, as though he had been sunburned. Joe coughed again and Ben hovered helplessly as his son grew breathless in his fight for oxygen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMitch told us that when they arrived at the Parsons\u2019 place, the house and barn were already on fire. Mitch and the others got the horses from the barn and Joe went into the house. He freed the Parsons, who told me they were tied up in an upstairs room.\u201d Paul went over and listened to Joe\u2019s chest. Joe was drifting in and out of sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho did it?\u201d asked Hoss, frowning. \u201cAn\u2019 why?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood question,\u201d Paul agreed. \u201cBut the Parsons haven\u2019t been around here long enough to have recognized the men who did it, and I didn\u2019t have time to ask Mitch and the others. That\u2019s Roy\u2019s job.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen can I take Joe home?\u201d Ben asked. Although he was heart-sorry for the Parsons, his main concern was Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot till tomorrow,\u201d Paul replied. \u201cI want him here where I can keep an eye on him overnight. He\u2019s having a bit of difficulty breathing, as you can see, and I want to be here, just on the off-chance there\u2019s a crisis.\u201d He saw the look in Ben\u2019s eyes and hastily added, \u201cBen, I said it was an off-chance, and that\u2019s what I meant. But you don\u2019t take chances with smoke inhalation.\u201d He found a tired smile. \u201cAnd, yes, Ben, you can stay.\u201d He excused himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, I think you ought to go home,\u201d Ben told his sons. \u201cHop Sing will be worried, and besides, I need you to bring out a wagon to bring Joe home in. See if you can find Cochise and take him back with you. I want to be here in case Joe needs me, and I\u2019m sure Roy will be in to talk to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Adam agreed, reluctantly. \u201cCome on, Hoss.\u201d He went over and looked down on Joe for a moment before briefly touching his cheek. Hoss followed him, swallowing visibly as he saw the lines of pain etched on Joe\u2019s face, despite the painkiller he had been given earlier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be all right,\u201d Ben soothed Hoss, touching his son\u2019s broad shoulder. Hoss nodded and followed Adam outside.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The night seemed very long to Ben, but by morning, Joe was looking a little better. He wasn\u2019t coughing quite as much, and seemed to be resting more easily. Paul had looked in several times, and Ben had heard him visiting the Parsons, too, for both Tony and his father had suffered from smoke inhalation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Early in the morning, Mr. Parsons appeared in the room where Joe was sleeping. Ben wakened from a doze as he heard the footsteps and looked up. This was the most difficult thing, he knew, facing the newly bereaved. But it had to be done and Ben muttered, \u201cI\u2019m so sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Parsons murmured, brokenly. He drew a deep breath to control his emotions. \u201cI wanted to come and see how Joe was doing, Mr. Cartwright. He saved our lives yesterday.\u201d He paused to wipe away a tear. \u201cMy wife was quite frail, you know. She had a heart condition, and Dr Martin says that\u2019s why she died. Joe did everything he could for her, you know. He carried her out of the house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know,\u201d Ben replied, for he hadn\u2019t known about Mrs. Parsons\u2019 heart condition and he hadn\u2019t known that Joe had carried her from the blazing house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs he going to be all right?\u201d Parsons asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, with time,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cHe wasn\u2019t hurt badly. Thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was the least I could do,\u201d Parsons told him. \u201cJoe risked his life for us, and saying thank you doesn\u2019t seem enough, somehow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure it\u2019ll be enough for Joe,\u201d Ben assured him. He watched as the man left, feeling his heart aching in empathy for him. Ben had been there three times. He blinked back the tears that gathered in his eyes and looked down on Joe. He was so thankful that he had not had to face that this time.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe\u2019s next visitor was Roy Coffee, the sheriff. By then, Joe was sitting up, and eating some breakfast. Ben was watching him discreetly while he ate, too, just in case Joe needed some help, but so far he was managing fine with his right hand.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMornin\u2019, Little Joe,\u201d Roy greeted him cheerfully. \u201cYa ain\u2019t lookin\u2019 too bad this mornin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel fine,\u201d Joe lied, for he was sore all over.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGlad ta hear it,\u201d Roy agreed. \u201cI wanted ta ask ya a few questions, if\u2019n ya don\u2019 mind.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t mind,\u201d Joe assured him. He took a fortifying sip of coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Mitch an\u2019 the others says ya was knocked over by the fellas as set this fire. Is that true?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure is,\u201d Joe replied, with feeling. He pulled back the blanket to show Roy the boot-shaped bruises on his chest. \u201cThey just ran me down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa didn\u2019 happen ta recognize them, did ya?\u201d Roy asked, in a tone that implied he was not hopeful.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was the Jennings boys,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cWell, four of the Jennings boys, anyway.\u201d He closed his eyes for a moment to make sure he had the right ones. \u201cMatthew and Mark,\u201d he began, \u201cand Luke and John.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about the other two boys, Isaac and Jacob? Was they there?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cI didn\u2019t see them. But I certainly saw the others.\u201d He grimaced. \u201cHow many sets of identical twins do we have in Virginia City?\u201d he asked, rhetorically.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Jennings family was well known in town for being completely shiftless, and for their three sets of identical twin sons. Mrs. Jennings was a small, thin, wizened woman, who looked about 60, although reliable reports only put her in her 40\u2019s. Quite where she had found room for three sets of twins, nobody was sure. Mr. Jennings was so like her that people often mistook them for brother and sister. But the six sons were tall and strong, and soon totally dominated their parents. Roy often had to take them to task, but he had never managed to catch them doing something illegal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre ya willin\u2019 to swear ta this in court, Joe?\u201d Roy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure am,\u201d Joe responded, darkly. He had been told of Mrs. Parsons\u2019 death a short while before. \u201cAnd so should Mitch and the others.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy made a face. \u201cWell, they would, Joe, but none o\u2019 them saw the boys \u2018ceptin you. They was all getting\u2019 off their horses.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d Joe nodded, expressionlessly. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, Roy, I\u2019ll testify.\u201d He gazed sightlessly at his plate as Ben saw the sheriff out. He wondered how long it would be before the other set of Jennings twins discovered who was the chief witness against their brothers. When they did, Joe knew his life would be made a misery.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

For the next couple of weeks, Joe took things easy. He had no choice and he was not the only member of his family who was disquieted at how long it took the smoke to clear his system. Even a week after the fire, the least exertion brought on a frightening bout of coughing. Because he had so many minor injuries, Joe was not moving about much, and the coughing gradually settled. Paul had kept a close eye on Joe\u2019s burns, but they were soon healing up nicely, and would not leave a mark. Joe\u2019s hand was taking longer to heal than anywhere else, but because he was left handed, he often reached for things with that hand before he thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you feel up to going to the dance?\u201d Ben asked Joe. It had been exactly two weeks since the fire. Joe\u2019s ankle had proved to be twisted rather than sprained and he had been walking about quite easily on it after a week.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Joe replied, cheerfully. \u201cI feel fine, Pa, honest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Raising one eyebrow, Ben regarded his youngest son intently. \u201cOh?\u201d he queried mildly. \u201cAnd who was it that almost cursed aloud when he banged his burned shoulder this morning?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The expression that crossed Joe\u2019s face was so comical that Ben almost laughed aloud. \u201cI didn\u2019t know you were there,\u201d Joe muttered, flushing. He\u2019d bitten off the curse that sprang to his lips, but obviously not fast enough. \u201cHow did you always know?\u201d he demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, Ben replied, \u201cI\u2019m omniscient, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh sure, rub it in with big words,\u201d Joe teased. \u201cYou\u2019ll be as bad as Adam if you don\u2019t watch out, Pa!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I hear my name being taken in vain?\u201d Adam asked, coming in to hear the last sentence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019Eavesdroppers seldom hear good of themselves\u2019,\u201d Joe quoted, cheekily. How Adam had loved saying that to a much younger Joe, and how Joe had longed to turn it back on his older brother. Now he\u2019d taken the chance and the look on Adam\u2019s face was everything he\u2019d hoped for.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlmost,\u201d Adam corrected him. \u201cThe proverb actually says, \u2018Listeners never hear any good of themselves.\u2019\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was close,\u201d Joe retorted, disgruntled. \u201cAnd that\u2019s not what you used to say to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps not,\u201d Adam agreed, \u201cbut I do at least know the correct phrasing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Deciding that he\u2019d better step in before this broke out into war, Ben said, \u201cWell, Joe, if you\u2019re up to going to the dance, I\u2019ll let Gwen Sharp know when I go into town today. She was asking me earlier in the week.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Pa,\u201d Joe smiled. Usually, he would have pestered Ben to be allowed to go into town with him, but Joe knew that he would need the extra few days to allow his hurts to heal and rest was the best way of doing that. He went over to sit down on the settee, sticking his tongue out at Adam behind Ben\u2019s back.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhy did the Jennings set fire to the Parsons\u2019 ranch?\u201d Joe asked, as Roy Coffee gave him the scheduled date for the court case. It lay some three weeks in the future.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell now, Joe, I ain\u2019t too sure,\u201d Roy admitted. \u201cThey ain\u2019t admittin\u2019 that they did it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you do believe it was them?\u201d Joe demanded, suddenly feeling a bit panicky. All his friends had assured him that they had not seen the intruder\u2019s faces, but Joe did not entirely believe them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCourse I do, Joe,\u201d Roy replied, sounding slightly offended. \u201cI know ya tell the truth, and Parsons an\u2019 his boy identified them, too. There won\u2019t be a problem at the trial, Joe, believe me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are the rest of the Jennings taking it?\u201d Joe wanted to know. \u201cI haven\u2019t been in town since it happened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe ma an\u2019 pa ain\u2019t sayin\u2019 too much,\u201d Roy mused. \u201cBut them other boys is real angry, Joe. I guess its nacheral, them being their kin.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAngry how?\u201d Joe asked. \u201cAgainst me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, jist mouthin\u2019 off,\u201d Roy replied. \u201cDon\u2019 worry about it, Joe. They won\u2019t do anythin\u2019.\u201d Roy took his leave, stopping to talk to Ben in the yard. Joe went back to sit on the settee, but although he opened his book, he didn\u2019t begin reading. He was thinking about what Roy had said. Somehow, he didn\u2019t think the Jennings were just mouthing off.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As he eased his way into his dress white shirt on Saturday night, Joe was glad that Hop Sing \u2013 or cousin number three to be more accurate \u2013 had not put too much starch on the shirt this time.\u00a0 Putting clothes on and taking them off was still time consuming and a little uncomfortable. Joe fumbled slightly with the buttons and for a moment contemplated asking for help, but he decided that he would manage. Paul Martin had put a smaller bandage on his hand the previous day and Joe had found he was more able to perform everyday tasks. Buttoning a shirt shouldn\u2019t be beyond him, he decided.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, not everyone had the same view, for Adam appeared a short time later. \u201cAre you ready yet?\u201d he demanded. \u201cWe\u2019re all waiting for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t get this tie to sit,\u201d Joe complained. He dropped the ends again and glared at the offending object in the mirror. \u201cI\u2019m ready apart from that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, why didn\u2019t you just ask for help?\u201d Adam retorted, exasperated, and came into the room to tie the tie.<\/span><\/p>\n

Flushing, Joe said nothing. However, Adam was not totally without sensitivity, and he went on, in a softer tone, \u201cWe don\u2019t mind helping, Joe. I know you\u2019re getting on better than you were, but some things are more difficult than others. This tie being one of them,\u201d he added tartly, having failed to make the tie sit, too. Joe grinned, feeling slightly better.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was soon done, though and they went downstairs in amity. Joe didn\u2019t protest when Adam helped him ease his jacket on over the bandaged arm, but a grin broke forth when he saw that Cochise had been saddled for him. Ben had announced that they would be going to the dance in the buggy. \u201cHow\u2026?\u201d Joe began, but Adam put his finger to his lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAsk no questions and I will tell you no lies,\u201d he whispered and they hurriedly mounted up before Ben could come out and veto the horses. As they trotted decorously out of the yard, they heard Ben muttering behind them, but not one of the three looked back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhose idea was this?\u201d Ben asked, as he caught up with them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking at him with wide, innocent eyes, Joe shrugged. \u201cI don\u2019t know what you mean, Pa,\u201d Adam replied, smoothly. Hoss choked and looked away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you we were going in the buggy,\u201d Ben commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa, I don\u2019t remember that,\u201d Adam apologized. Nobody believed a word of it, but Ben was seen to smile briefly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was a perfect, still, golden evening as they arrived in town. Joe had thoroughly enjoyed his ride, although he was feeling a bit stiff after it. They hitched their horses to the rail outside the hotel and went in. The heat in the ballroom hit them immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIts gonna be sticky tonight,\u201d Adam mused. \u201cJoe, do you want a hand to take your jacket off?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Glancing round to make sure no one was watching, Joe nodded. \u201cIf you don\u2019t mind,\u201d he replied. He bit down his winces as Adam eased the material down over his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d The feminine voice made Joe whirl around, hoping furiously that Gwen hadn\u2019t seen Adam helping him. But if she had noticed, Gwen was exercising a tact Joe didn\u2019t know she had and didn\u2019t mention it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Gwen,\u201d Joe replied and offered her his arm as they went into the ballroom. Ben and Adam exchanged amused looks. Hoss made straight for the food table.<\/span><\/p>\n

To begin with, Gwen was agog to hear about Joe\u2019s experiences with the fire, but Joe could not indulge his date\u2019s curiosity. He was not allowed to talk about the case at all. Gwen pouted, but Joe put himself out to charm her out of her sulks, and they were soon treading the boards.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I have to rest,\u201d Joe apologized as he led Gwen from the floor after a particularly energetic dance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all right, so do I,\u201d agreed Gwen, wielding her fan against the heat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like a drink?\u201d Joe asked and when she nodded, rose and went over to the table where the bowls of punch were set out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright,\u201d growled a low voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing by the punch table, Joe stiffened. \u201cWhat do you want, Jennings?\u201d he asked, warily, not looking at the other man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re marked, Cartwright,\u201d Jennings hissed. \u201cJust remember that! You\u2019re marked!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jennings sidled away into the crowd of revelers, Joe dropped the ladle back into the punch bowl and put the cup down absently. So it was out, and he was a marked man. He drew in an unsteady breath. He would have to mind his back for sure now.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs something the matter, son?\u201d Ben asked, as he approached the table a few minutes later. Joe was still standing there, gazing into space.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHmm? Oh, Pa. No, everything\u2019s fine. I was just getting a drink for Gwen and myself.\u201d Joe smiled at Ben before pouring punch into a couple of cups and weaving his way expertly between the dancers to where his date was sitting.<\/span><\/p>\n

Watching him go, Ben was not convinced. But there was no way to make Joe talk before he was ready to.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou\u2019re very quiet, Joe,\u201d Adam observed as they rode home. \u201cIt\u2019s not like you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m tired,\u201d Joe sighed, avoiding his brother\u2019s gaze.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all that there dancin\u2019 that does it,\u201d Hoss commented knowledgably. \u201cAn\u2019 ya don\u2019 eat enough ta keep yer strength up while yer dancin\u2019, Joe. Ya didn\u2019 eat a thing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI ate plenty at supper,\u201d Joe grouched. \u201cWe don\u2019t all have to eat 16 meals a day, big brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking at the way Joe slouched in the saddle, Ben could well believe that his son was tired. But there was something else on his mind, too. Joe\u2019s retort to Hoss lacked something of its usual sparkle. But Hoss hadn\u2019t noticed and was laughing. Glancing at Adam, Ben saw that his oldest son was looking closely at Joe, too. Ben felt almost relieved. So it wasn\u2019t just his imagination that suggested that Joe was not behaving in his usual manner.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cSince you proved on Saturday that you are up to riding again,\u201d Ben told Joe on Monday morning, \u201cyou can go and collect the mail for me. Oh, and I need you to take a letter into the bank, too, Joe. There should be a reply, so wait for it, will you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing, Pa,\u201d Joe agreed, readily enough although he couldn\u2019t deny a slight pang of unease. But it wasn\u2019t Joe\u2019s way to avoid things, so he resolved that he would be careful in town.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Pa?\u201d Adam asked, as Ben stood in the yard, gazing absently after Joe\u2019s departing figure. \u201cYou\u2019ve been watching Joe ever since the dance. Is he all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think so,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cBut you\u2019re right; I\u2019ve been uneasy since the dance. I found Joe standing by the punch bowl gazing into space. He\u2019d been there for several minutes, but he denied that there was anything wrong.\u201d Ben sighed. \u201cBut I can\u2019t help feeling that he\u2019s hiding something from me and I don\u2019t know what.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe can take care of himself,\u201d Adam reminded Ben. \u201cWhen he\u2019s ready, he\u2019ll talk to you about whatever it is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure he will,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cBut that\u2019s no comfort in the meantime, is it?\u201d He turned and went back into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The uneasy feeling did not go away as Joe went about his business in the town. He met various people that he was obliged to stop and talk to, and he tried to be polite to each one, but it was difficult. He was itching to get his chores done and then get back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Finally, having delivered the letter to the bank and received the reply, Joe was free to go home. Collecting the paper, he angled across the street to where Cochise was tethered outside the mail office, reading as he went. From further down the street, there was the sound of a shot, and Joe glanced idly over his shoulder. However, he didn\u2019t see anything and nobody seemed to be panicking, so he continued on strolling towards Cochise.<\/span><\/p>\n

Then the shouting started and Joe felt the rumble in the ground before he realized that there was a wagon barreling down the street, aiming directly at him. For one frozen moment, Joe found he could not move. People were screaming at him to jump out of the way, but Joe still stood there.<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly, his muscles unlocked, and Joe dived for safety. He tumbled across the dusty street, feeling a flying hoof just touch his leg. As he sat up, unscathed, people crowded around him, demanding to know if he was all right. Nodding, for he was still slightly winded, Joe glanced after the wagon and saw that it had been brought to a halt. The wagoneer was running down the street behind it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, are you all right, boy?\u201d Roy Coffee demanded, puffing up to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I think so,\u201d Joe replied, still shaken. A shudder ran down his spine as he realized how close he had come to being seriously injured. Part of his pants leg was ripped away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid anyone see what happened?\u201d Roy asked, glancing around. He kept his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder, preventing him from rising.<\/span><\/p>\n

Various voices answered, and Joe gave up trying to sort out the different stories. He eased out from under Roy\u2019s hand and stood up. Despite the torn pants leg, he was uninjured. He fidgeted impatiently while Roy gathered as much information as he could, then followed meekly as Roy shepherded him across to the doctor\u2019s office.<\/span><\/p>\n

A quick look was all it took for Paul Martin to establish that Joe was all right. Nobody had seen anything, although various people had, like Joe, heard the shot. Roy decided that somebody had been careless with their gun, and that the wagon driver had forgotten to set the brake properly. Joe, at last, was able to escape and head for home.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Despite his intentions not to tell Ben what had happened, Joe had forgotten that he would need to change his pants. He went into the house and headed for the stairs, deliberately not looking around, in the hope that if he didn\u2019t look, his father would not be in the house. It was a forlorn hope, for as Joe came into view, Ben\u2019s voice said, \u201cWhat happened to you? Are you all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, thanks,\u201d Joe replied and produced the mail and Ben\u2019s letter from the bank in an attempt to distract his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut what happened?\u201d Ben persisted. \u201cAre you hurt?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling ruefully, Joe told the story, and repeated that he wasn\u2019t hurt. \u201cHonest, Pa, Roy insisted that Doc Martin checked me out and he said I was fine. I am, honest. Not even sore.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were lucky,\u201d Ben commented, shaken by his son\u2019s near miss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Joe agreed. \u201cNow, if you\u2019ll excuse me, Pa, I\u2019d like to put on some pants that aren\u2019t quite as well ventilated as these?\u201d Ben laughed and swatted at Joe\u2019s behind. Used to his father\u2019s little foibles, Joe dodged the blow adroitly<\/span><\/p>\n

Later, over supper, the story was told again for Adam and Hoss\u2019 sake. Hop Sing was already cutting Joe\u2019s torn pants into squares that he could use for washing the floors, grumbling all the time he did so.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think it was an accident?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cThat\u2019s what Roy thinks.\u201d He frowned at Adam. \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure it isn\u2019t the Jennings trying to get rid of their star witness?\u201d The words were no sooner out of his mouth than Adam wished he could call them back. He had not meant to say anything.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d Ben protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it could be,\u201d Adam replied, trying to sound reasonable.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not the only witness,\u201d Joe objected. \u201cThere\u2019s Tony and Mr. Parsons.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s right,\u201d Hoss agreed. \u201cJoe ain\u2019t the only one who saw them Jennings boys.\u201d He glared at Adam for upsetting Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sighing, for Adam had hoped not to have to tell Joe, he reported, \u201cGossip tells me that Mr. Parsons is having problems with his memory. And Tony was beaten up in the street the other day. Okay, it wasn\u2019t the oldest Jennings twins who did it, but the men who did are their friends.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe crowd from the Lazy K?\u201d Joe asked. His handsome face bore a ferocious scowl. \u201cDid Roy catch them at it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Adam replied, ruefully. \u201cThe first Roy knew of it was when Tony appeared at church on Sunday, all battered and bruised. He refused to tell Roy who had done it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut why won\u2019t Tony say who did it?\u201d Joe cried. \u201cThe Jennings killed his mother!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Reaching out, Ben clasped Joe\u2019s wrist. \u201cJoe, we don\u2019t know why Tony said that. But it could be that he\u2019s afraid. Look what happened to them, after all. He only has his father left in this world. Perhaps some threat was made against him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre they going to testify?\u201d Joe demanded of Adam, who shrugged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I don\u2019t know. I\u2019m only telling you what the hands overheard in the saloon the other night. I just don\u2019t know the answer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking down on his plate, Joe blinked back the tears that threatened to overwhelm him. \u201cSo that\u2019s why I\u2019ve been singled out,\u201d he whispered. \u201cAnd that wasn\u2019t an accident this afternoon. The Jennings are out to get me.\u201d He lifted his head, his green eyes blazing. \u201cBut I\u2019m not going to back down! I know what I saw, and they are guilty of murder!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAtta boy!\u201d Hoss praised him. \u201cWe\u2019ll make sure you\u2019re all right, Shortshanks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Nodding, Joe looked at Ben and saw there the worry in his father\u2019s dark eyes. He knew Ben would not ask him not to testify, for that went against every principle that Ben held dear. But it would not stop his father worrying about his safety, despite the presence of his brothers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m proud of you, Joe,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly, Joe couldn\u2019t take any more. He muttered something that no one caught and rose to his feet, practically running from the house. Adam looked down at his plate, so he didn\u2019t have to see the accusing looks in his father\u2019s and brother\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The Parsons\u2019 ranch house was a blackened ruin and Joe hesitated as he saw it. The memories it produced were ones he would sooner forget. Close by the house was the shanty that the Parsons had built to keep the worst of the weather out. Joe dismounted in the yard and went over to the shanty.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want, Joe?\u201d Tony asked, opening the door a crack and peering out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to see if you were all right,\u201d Joe replied. He was horrified by Tony\u2019s black eyes and split lip. \u201cTony, who did this to you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Tony evaded, his eyes cutting away from Joe. \u201cI never saw any of them before.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTony\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you\u2019ve seen me and I\u2019m fine. Now get out of here, will ya?\u201d Tony shut the door firmly in Joe\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Walking back to his horse, Joe wondered what he had expected. Had he thought Tony would tell him who had beaten him up? Say that he was still willing to testify? Stepping into the saddle, Joe acknowledged that that was exactly what he had thought. He had thought his friendship would encourage the other young man to take his place on the witness stand and tell the truth. It appeared that his friendship wasn\u2019t enough. Tony had lost a lot, but it seemed that he could not face losing any more.<\/span><\/p>\n

Deep in thought, Joe did not notice his danger until it was too late. In the fading daylight, he didn\u2019t see the rope stretched across the road between two trees.\u00a0 One minute he was riding along the road at a casual lope, the next, he was swept from the saddle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Winded, Joe found he couldn\u2019t move as his body fought to regain the breath knocked from it by the fall. Two masked men leapt from the trees. Joe saw them coming, but there was nothing he could do. One yanked Joe to his feet and the other began to tie his hands behind him. Joe started to struggle, but he was too winded to do anything effective.<\/span><\/p>\n

He was dragged over to the nearest tree and the rope binding his wrists was flung over a branch. Joe suddenly understood what the men were going to do. They were going to hoist his arms up behind him until he was forced to bend over, standing on tiptoe, or worse, suspended by his arms. Joe knew that by the time someone came looking for him, the damage done to his arms would be severe.<\/span><\/p>\n

But before the men could do more than throw the rope over the branch, there was a shot. Joe twisted his head round and saw two men on familiar horses galloping towards him. Adam and Hoss. The men with Joe let loose muffled curses. The one holding the rope gave it a fierce tug, forcing a cry of pain from Joe before the other man punched him in the stomach. They fled.<\/span><\/p>\n

As his brothers pulled their horses to a stop beside him, Joe collapsed to his knees. His breath was still coming in gulps, for he had barely got it back before it was knocked out of him again. \u201cJoe!\u201d Adam knelt beside his brother while Hoss made sure his attackers were gone. \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I think so,\u201d Joe wheezed. \u201cGood timing, brothers. Thanks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

While Adam cut through the ropes binding Joe\u2019s hands, Hoss went over to disentangle Cochise from the rope that had knocked Joe from the saddle. The pinto wasn\u2019t hurt, just shaken and it danced about on the end of the rein while Hoss crooned nonsense to calm it down. By the time Adam was satisfied that Joe wasn\u2019t really hurt, the pinto was back to its usual state of mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you recognize them, Joe?\u201d Adam asked as they rode slowly home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Joe replied, in a disgusted tone. \u201cI didn\u2019t really see them. I was too winded from that fall, then you guys came along.\u201d He glanced sideways at Adam. \u201cDo we have to tell Pa?\u201d he asked, hopefully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Adam replied, and Joe groaned. He wasn\u2019t looking forward to that one bit.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cTwice in one day is more than coincidence, young man!\u201d Ben stated, his face tight with concern.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sitting on the sofa while Hoss massaged some of the kinks out of his sore shoulders, Joe sighed. \u201cI know that, Pa,\u201d he agreed, with strained patience. \u201cI didn\u2019t say it was a coincidence.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe trial is still two weeks away,\u201d Adam commented, glancing worriedly at Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know that,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cWe\u2019ll have to tell Roy about this,\u201d he added. \u201cAnd Joe, you\u2019ll have to stay around the house or with others until the trial comes up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking up and wincing as Hoss found a particularly sore spot, Joe saw by the look on Ben\u2019s face that he had no choice but to agree. He could clearly see Ben tying him to his bed if he took silly risks. Much as he hated to be cooped up, Joe nodded. \u201cSure, Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was under no illusions that the next two weeks would be easy for any of them, but he didn\u2019t know what else to do. Joe had to be kept safe, not just because of the trial, but for his own sake. Ben did not want anything else happening to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a long time before any of them slept that night.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Next morning, Ben went into town, leaving Joe with his brothers. Roy Coffee was in his office, saving Ben the trouble of trying to track him down. He swiftly set out what had happened to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, there ain\u2019t a whole lot I can do, Ben,\u201d Roy muttered, as his old friend fell silent. \u201cI could take Joe into protective custody, but the only place I got ta keep him is here in the jail and I don\u2019 think he\u2019d want ta be in the next cell to the Jennings boys.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCouldn\u2019t we wire the judge and ask for the trial to be brought forward?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Shaking his head, Roy replied, \u201cI already asked that, Ben and the judge jist cain\u2019t do it. He\u2019s got a big trial down in Carson City next week an\u2019 he ain\u2019t altogether sure he\u2019ll git here on the day he\u2019s meant ta.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess it can\u2019t be helped,\u201d Ben sighed. \u201cThanks anyway, Roy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou keep that boy safe,\u201d Roy warned him. \u201cI ain\u2019t got a case without him, Ben.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBelieve me, Roy, I\u2019ll keep him safe!\u201d Ben vowed.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Life at the Ponderosa was a very tense affair for the next two weeks. Joe spent a lot of time at the house with Ben and although he cherished each moment he spent with his father, Joe also longed for the freedom he habitually knew. He wasn\u2019t allowed to go into town at all, and even a last, abortive attempt to talk to Tony involved both his brothers riding out with him. None of the Cartwrights went anywhere alone or unarmed. Tensions and feelings ran high and on more than one occasion, voices were raised. But finally, the date of the trial arrived.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 *********************<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you feel all right?\u201d Ben asked Joe in an undertone as they put on their jackets and hats. \u201cYou didn\u2019t eat much this morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t hungry,\u201d Joe answered, truthfully. His stomach was tied up in knots. The prosecutor had been out to see Joe the day before and had gone over his testimony with him. Joe was as prepared as he could be, but that didn\u2019t make him feel any better.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTime to go,\u201d Ben declared, and put his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder. He could feel the tension in the muscles there and rubbed gently. Joe leant unconsciously into the warmth of Ben\u2019s hand, but the muscles didn\u2019t loosen any. Then they were mounted and riding out, clustering around Joe protectively.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was quite a crowd pushing into the court house as the Cartwrights arrived. A murmur went through the crowd as they were recognized and a few ghoulish young men pushed forward to get a closer look at Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Adam stood on either side of Joe as Hoss pushed a way through the crowds. Nobody wanted to argue with the biggest Cartwright son, and they soon got out of the way. It was almost time for the trial to start, and the people were keen to get seats. Before long, the Cartwrights were alone in the lobby.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen!\u201d The cry made them all look round as Roy hurried towards them. \u201cGlad I caught ya, Ben,\u201d he puffed. \u201cI jist learned somethin\u2019 that might explain why the Parsons ain\u2019t too keen to testify.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Ben asked, eagerly, as Roy paused to catch his breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSeems that the Parsons came out here after they were involved in a big case back east,\u201d Roy went on. \u201cParsons witnessed a bank robbery and caught the hold-up man. He got a big reward fer it an\u2019 came out here to make a new start. But here\u2019s the interestin\u2019 bit. The hold-up man is a cousin of the Jennings!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Joe gasped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s true,\u201d Roy attested. \u201cCain\u2019t hardly credit it, but it\u2019s true. I reckon the Jennings went after the Parsons when they discovered who they was. Their cousin was hanged.\u201d Roy dragged his watch out of his pocket. \u201cI\u2019ve got a few minutes to speak to the Parsons, an\u2019 see if\u2019n I can git them ta change their minds. Joe, you won\u2019t be called for about half an hour yet. Ya don\u2019t have ta go in if\u2019n ya don\u2019 want ta right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Roy,\u201d Joe muttered. He looked at his family as Roy hurried off. \u201cI\u2019d just like a little air, Pa. Alone, if you don\u2019t mind. I won\u2019t go far.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Ben agreed, reluctantly. They were all a bit shaken by Roy\u2019s news, and Ben would have preferred that Joe stay with them. However, Joe needed the space, if just for a few minutes. He watched as his son went out of the door and vanished from sight.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Whatever else Joe had expected Roy to say, this had never crossed his mind. Tony had not said much about why they had come west, but Joe respected the other youth\u2019s reticence. There were times he wanted to keep things to himself, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lost in thought, Joe wandered along the street, then crossed over and turned back. He didn\u2019t want to be late. He had no desire to spend time in jail for contempt of court.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he passed the side alley that led along the back of the International Hotel, someone jumped on him. Joe was caught completely by surprise and before he could fight back, he was dragged up the alley by many pairs of hands. Next moment, he found himself against the wall, his arms pulled out from his sides. He was surrounded by half a dozen men of the Lazy K ranch, and the oldest Jennings twins.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had no chance to shout for help or try to say anything before they all lit into him, punching and kicking him. Joe tried desperately to fight back, but the two men holding his arms kept pulling him from side to side so he couldn\u2019t get any leverage to kick out at anyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

As fist followed fist followed boot, Joe realized through the pain that he would probably die in the alley. These men did not want to frighten him into not testifying; they wanted to silence him altogether. He toppled to the ground as the men holding him let go, and the gang closed in, ready to finish him off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHold it!\u201d a hard voice ordered. Joe vaguely recognized it as Adam\u2019s, but he was adrift on a sea of pain, his breath coming in painful gasps. There was the sound of a further scuffle and several people stepped on Joe, but he was past caring. He closed his eyes and blacked out.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

When he opened his eyes again, Adam was trickling water into his mouth. Joe swallowed gratefully. His mouth was as dry as a desert.\u00a0 \u201cAdam,\u201d he croaked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t try to move, Joe,\u201d Adam urged. He was horrified by the state Joe was in. His youngest brother\u2019s face was barely recognizable, covered as it was in cuts and swelling. Joe\u2019s eyes were rapidly swelling shut and already beginning to take on a bruised hue; his lips were split and massively swollen and blood tricked down both sides of his face from cuts above his eyes. Adam didn\u2019t think he had ever seen Joe look worse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGotta testify,\u201d Joe insisted, trying to rise. The movement brought a cry of anguish to his lips as his abused body protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t!\u201d Adam protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMust,\u201d Joe mumbled. He lifted his hand painfully to grasp Adam\u2019s shirt. \u201cCatch any?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust one,\u201d Adam responded, grimly. \u201cHe won\u2019t be going anywhere for a while.\u201d Hoss had knocked the man cold with a single punch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHelp me,\u201d Joe slurred.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, we\u2019ll get the doc,\u201d soothed Adam, as Hoss came to look over his shoulder with concern.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not doc,\u201d Joe insisted. \u201cCourt.\u201d Seeing that Adam was going to argue, Joe mustered his dwindling strength. \u201cAdam, they\u2019ll go free\u2026 if I don\u2019t.\u201d He swallowed painfully and Adam gave him more water. \u201cCan\u2019t let them get\u2026 away with\u2026murder.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam hesitated, not sure that Joe knew what he was saying, Hoss came to Joe\u2019s assistance. \u201cHe\u2019s right, Adam. You an\u2019 me can tell them what we saw here and we have this fella ta back us up. \u2018Sides, we gotta take him ta Roy, an\u2019 Roy\u2019s at the courthouse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cZac\u2019ly,\u201d Joe muttered. He felt dreadful, pain hammering him from all round and his chest felt unbearably tight. \u201cPlease, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Adam agreed, his voice rough with concern. Joe had sounded so young as he pleaded with his brother to help him. Together, Adam and Hoss helped Joe to his feet, then Adam swung his brother\u2019s arm over his shoulder and put his own arm around Joe\u2019s slim waist. He pretended not to hear the gasp of pain the movement evoked.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Hoss gathered up their unconscious prisoner, Adam began to half-carry Joe up the street towards the courthouse. He was so relieved that he and Hoss had decided to go looking for Joe when they did. \u201cYou better let me clean you up a bit,\u201d he panted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Joe objected. \u201cNo time.\u201d He was finding it harder and harder to stay conscious. Even though Adam was doing most of the work, the actual moving was proving almost too much for Joe\u2019s battered body. \u201cMight… pass out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Adam panted, understanding. He hurried his steps slightly, but Joe was deceptively slender. His body carried a network of impressive muscles that made him heavier and stronger than he looked.<\/span><\/p>\n

But finally, they arrived at the court house. Adam knew that Ben was inside, keeping seats for them all, so that Joe could get all the support they could offer. As he drew closer to the inner door, he heard Joe\u2019s name from within.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf Joseph Cartwright does not show up inside the next two minutes, I will hold him in contempt of court!\u201d the judge thundered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Shoving open the door, Adam went in, dragging Joe with him. Ben was the first to follow the judge\u2019s horrified gaze and he leapt to his feet, hurrying towards his sons as a shocked hubbub broke out in the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe! Adam! What happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot now, Pa,\u201d Adam gasped, and dragged Joe to the front and over to the witness box. He gently helped his sibling sit down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is the meaning of this?\u201d the judge demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou Honor, this is my brother, Joe Cartwright,\u201d Adam replied. \u201cHoss and I found him in an alley just down the street, being beaten by a gang of men. Most of them got away, but we did manage to get one.\u201d He gestured to the door, where Hoss had just entered with the man in tow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frowning, the judge turned to Joe. \u201cMr. Cartwright, can you tell us what happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was jumped,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cTwo of the men were\u2026 the oldest Jennings\u2026 twins.\u201d Joe dragged in a ragged breath. \u201cIsaac and Jacob.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure of this?\u201d asked the judge, his face softening as he took in Joe\u2019s condition.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a soft noise which Adam realized was Joe attempting to laugh. Luckily, the judge didn\u2019t realize this. \u201cI know them,\u201d Joe whispered. The court room was silent as everyone strained to hear Joe\u2019s thin voice. \u201cThey look alike.\u201d He tried to wipe his brow, but his hand wouldn\u2019t do what he asked of it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking at the man held tight in Hoss\u2019 mighty grip, the judge asked, \u201cWho are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, the man told his story. \u201cI\u2019m Jack Parkins, an\u2019 I work for the Lazy K ranch. Isaac and Jacob Jennings asked me an\u2019 a bunch o\u2019 other guys to help them intimidate the Parsons an\u2019 Joe Cartwright so\u2019s they wouldn\u2019t testify.\u201d In the main part of the court room, Tony Parsons ducked his head, a deep flush staining his face. \u201cWe tried ta git Cartwright afore, but his brothers come along. So the twins asked us to git Cartwright today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWere you trying to kill him?\u201d the judge demanded. \u201cBecause it looks to me like with another minute, you might have succeeded. Sheriff, take this man in custody. Find out the names of the other men and arrest them, too.\u201d He turned back to Joe. \u201cMr. Cartwright, can you answer me a couple more questions?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Joe wheezed, although he was remaining sitting only through sheer stubbornness. Adam hovered helplessly nearby, reluctant to touch Joe again if he didn\u2019t have to, afraid to cause his brother more pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen the fire occurred, you went to rescue the Parsons from the burning house, is that right?\u201d Joe grunted assent. \u201cDid you see the defendants close enough to identify?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Joe agreed. He thought about nodding, but wasn\u2019t sure if his head would stay on if he did. \u201cThey ran\u2026 right over me.\u201d He took a shallow breath. \u201cI saw them\u2026 as they\u2026 came out\u2026 of the\u2026door.\u201d A groan of pain escaped his control. \u201cMatthew\u2026 Mark\u2026 Luke and John.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly, Tony stood up. \u201cI saw them, too,\u201d he cried. \u201cI saw them!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d the judge responded, gravely. \u201cIs there a doctor here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d cried Paul Martin, standing up. He hurried over to Joe, following Ben, who was now by his son\u2019s side, looking anxiously at the battered face. Joe\u2019s eyes were only open a tiny slit. \u201cJust relax, Joe,\u201d Paul advised. \u201cWe\u2019ll get you out of here, don\u2019t worry.\u201d He swiftly drew up a painkilling injection and Joe drifted away.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

When Joe next opened his eyes, hours had clearly passed. In actual fact, only one of Joe\u2019s eyes opened a tiny bit; the other stayed shut. The room was dim and Joe assumed that it was evening. He tried to move, but his body protested and he let out a groan of pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d A figure hove into view, but Joe didn\u2019t need to be able to see clearly to know that it was his father. \u201cDon\u2019t try to move, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cToo late,\u201d Joe replied. He tried to smile, but it was too painful. \u201cHow long?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, a few hours. It\u2019s mid-afternoon,\u201d Ben replied. He saw the surprise on Joe\u2019s face. \u201cThe curtains are shut to protect your eyes a bit, and to keep away the crowds who want to peer at the hero.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat hero?\u201d Joe enquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou,\u201d Ben told him, gently. \u201cBecause of you, Tony and his father both testified and the Jennings boys are going to hang. Joe, you are the hero.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I get a drink?\u201d Joe asked. He sipped the cool water gratefully. \u201cI don\u2019t feel like a hero,\u201d he added, when he was finished.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do heroes feel like?\u201d Ben asked. \u201cDo you know?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeroic?\u201d Joe suggested. Ben smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps, but you know, Joe, I think most heroes don\u2019t know that they are heroes. They feel hunger, cold and pain just like the rest of us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess,\u201d Joe agreed. He focused again on his father. It required quite a lot of effort. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBroken ribs, mild concussion, dislocated shoulder and a lot of bruises,\u201d Ben replied, succinctly, as though telling Joe quickly might make his injuries seem less severe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Having had it all explained to him, Joe could now sort his general malaise into distinct areas of discomfort and pain. His ribs and shoulder were the worst, but the rest of his body throbbed in time to his heartbeat. He suddenly felt all shuddery and gasped, \u201cI\u2019m gonna be sick.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Moving quickly, Ben assisted his son and put the noisome basin aside. \u201cTry and sleep some more,\u201d Ben suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I need to pee,\u201d Joe whispered. The water had just aggravated the urge that had woken him in the first place. Ben offered discreet help, but Joe was exhausted when he lay back down again. He hoped that the next time he needed to go, he would be able to help himself! He could think of very little worse than having to rely on someone else in that department.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen can I go home?\u201d Joe asked, as his eye drifted shut.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen the doctor says so,\u201d Ben whispered, but he doubted if his son heard him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Next morning, as Joe was trying to stand without falling over, the Parsons arrived. It was a relief to sit down and talk to them, as it allowed Joe more time to regain his equilibrium. Paul had said he was not returning home until he was able to stand alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just wanted to thank you, Joe,\u201d Parsons said. \u201cNot just because you saved our lives, although I do thank you for that. But I wanted to thank you for the courage you showed on the stand. I would never have found the courage if I hadn\u2019t seen you up there, like that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Embarrassed and unsure what to say, Joe cleared his throat. However, before he could speak, Tony jumped in. \u201cWe didn\u2019t realize that each of us had been threatened,\u201d he explained. \u201cI was scared that something would happen to Dad and he was scared that something would happen to me. We\u2019ve been through this before, Joe and it was awful. It seemed too bad to be facing it all over again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad that you decided to tell the truth,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cAnd I didn\u2019t do it just for you. I did it to show the Jennings that I wouldn\u2019t give in to them.\u201d Joe glinted a sideways glance at Ben. The effect was kind of spoiled by the fact that he had only one eye partially open, but Ben was attuned enough to his son\u2019s ways to appreciate what he was trying to do. \u201cPa\u2019s always telling me I\u2019m too stubborn for my own good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I was definitely right this time, wasn\u2019t I?\u201d Ben asked, laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do you get home?\u201d Tony asked, clearly trying to regain the friendship that he had thought lost.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you come over in a couple of days?\u201d he suggested. \u201cI\u2019m bound to be driving Pa mad by then, and he\u2019ll be glad of the break.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn fact, if you would like to have Joe live with you\u2026\u201d Ben suggested and they all laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Later, as Joe finally managed to stand unaided, Ben said, \u201cThat was a nice thing you did for Tony, inviting him over.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, why wouldn\u2019t I?\u201d Joe asked discovering that turning his head quickly was not a good idea. He caught himself on the back of the chair. \u201cTony\u2019s my friend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think Tony thought he was still your friend until you asked him over,\u201d Ben prompted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would he think\u2026?\u201d Joe began, then the penny dropped. \u201cYou mean he thought I wouldn\u2019t be his friend because he wouldn\u2019t testify?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI mean just that,\u201d Ben nodded. \u201cRemember, Joe, he hasn\u2019t lived around here that long and he really didn\u2019t know exactly what your reputation for stubbornness meant. I\u2019m glad you were able to prove to him what a real friend is.\u201d He smiled at Joe. \u201cI\u2019ll pretend I didn\u2019t see that stagger, son and then Paul will let you come home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cThanks, Pa.\u201d His sunlit smile filled the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Crossing the room, Ben caught Joe in a gentle hug, mindful of his sons\u2019 broken bones and bruises. \u201cI\u2019m so proud of you,\u201d he whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Pa,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cCan we go home now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go, hero,\u201d Ben smiled and together, they went out to where Adam and Hoss were waiting with the wagon.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****End*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Disclaimer:\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0As the only witness willing to testify to a murder, Joe finds himself singled out.<\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0(10,095 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":11267,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23],"tags":[16],"class_list":["post-1574","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":3364,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/normal_pm_79.jpg?fit=400%2C271&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12132,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12132","url_meta":{"origin":1574,"position":0},"title":"Chinese Molasses (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"January 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. Any reader wishing to read this series should e:mail the Brandsters:\u00a0 Brandsters2020@gmail.com","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12134,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12134","url_meta":{"origin":1574,"position":1},"title":"In My Father’s House (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"May 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. Any reader wishing to read this series should e:mail the Brandsters:\u00a0 Brandsters2020@gmail.com","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Pondarosa-House-3.jpg?fit=564%2C401&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Pondarosa-House-3.jpg?fit=564%2C401&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Pondarosa-House-3.jpg?fit=564%2C401&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":7172,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7172","url_meta":{"origin":1574,"position":2},"title":"By The Lake (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"August 7, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0The aftermath of an argument sees Joe and Adam trying to mend fences.\u00a0 Rated:\u00a0 K+ \u00a0\u00a0 (730 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Friendship-4.jpg?fit=500%2C373&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":12136,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12136","url_meta":{"origin":1574,"position":3},"title":"The Rebirth of Joe Cartwright (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"August 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. Any reader wishing to read this story should e:mail the Brandsters:\u00a0 Brandsters2020@gmail.com","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/feature-2.jpg?fit=338%2C338&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":3156,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3156","url_meta":{"origin":1574,"position":4},"title":"Easter (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"March 24, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A short introspective piece as a son waits to hear if his father will live. Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 (1,075 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":4656,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=4656","url_meta":{"origin":1574,"position":5},"title":"Guilty (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"August 11, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Accused of a crime he didn't commit, Joe finds himself facing the ultimate punishment while his brothers race against time to bring the witness who can clear Joe's name. Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 (9,620 words) Guilty Series, links to all the stories within the series included.","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1574","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/45"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1574"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1574\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/11267"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1574"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1574"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1574"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}