{"id":1616,"date":"2003-02-19T15:21:09","date_gmt":"2003-02-19T20:21:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1616"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:06:53","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:06:53","slug":"the-deadly-ones","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1616","title":{"rendered":"The Deadly Ones (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/strong>Based on the episode, this is the story we didn’t see. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>(10,335 words)
\n<\/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

 <\/p>\n

The Deadly Ones<\/strong><\/p>\n

Riding wearily into the yard after a long day riding fence, Joe Cartwright stopped his horse by the pile of hay outside the barn, and stretched. The yard was quiet, as the hands and Joe\u2019s older brothers were all out on a cattle drive. There was only Joe and his father Ben at home. Joe was very sensitive to atmosphere, and the expectant air in the yard seemed wrong to him. It was almost as though there was someone there. Looking round, he tried to see if there was anything out of the ordinary, but he couldn\u2019t see anything. Going over to the barn, Joe peered in, but it was in darkness, so he headed towards the house. He\u2019d see if Pa was home before he put away his horse, he decided.<\/span><\/p>\n

Something, a tiny noise, or movement, made Joe pause and look all round. There was nothing to be seen, but it was a dark night, with no moon. Joe tried to shrug the feeling off, but some instinct insisted that there was something wrong. But nothing was obviously out of place, so Joe shook his head, and walked briskly towards the house. Perhaps there was bad weather on the way.<\/span><\/p>\n

A shot rang out and something hit Joe hard in the back. There was an instant of agonizing pain as his legs buckled. Joe was unconscious before he landed in a tumbled heap in the doorway of his home.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the shadow of the barn, the gunman lowered his sawn-off shotgun and smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The first thing that Ben Cartwright saw as he rode into the yard was Cochise, Joe\u2019s pinto horse, eating contentedly at the hay pile outside the barn. Ben was annoyed on two counts; one that Joe hadn\u2019t put his horse away, and two, that he hadn\u2019t put the hay in the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d he called, dismounting. No answer. \u201cJoseph!\u201d Still nothing. Angry now, Ben shouted, \u201cIs it too much trouble to stable your horse?\u201d Still no response. With a tightening of his lips, Ben snatched up his own horse\u2019s rein and walked purposefully to the barn, but he got no further than the door. He dropped Buck\u2019s rein and backed out slowly his hands up, as a man with a gun forced him out. \u201cWhat is this?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShut up!\u201d the man responded, and gave Ben a push in the general direction of the house. Ben stumbled across the yard, his heart in his mouth. What did this man want?<\/span><\/p>\n

Inside the house, there were half a dozen men, apparently Mexican judging by their dress, stripping his gun cabinets of his rifles. Ben glared at them, and at a tall man standing by the credenza. He couldn\u2019t imagine what was going on. Before he could say anything, there was a faint moan from the settee, then another. Ben\u2019s eyes widened. There was no mistaking Joe\u2019s voice, even in those soft sounds. Ben hurried round the end of the settee, ignoring the men in his home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lay on his back, his right hand flung up above his head, resting on the arm of the settee. His eyes were shut, and a sheen of sweat glistened on his face. \u201cJoe!\u201d Ben exclaimed, worry in his tones. He slid his hand under his son\u2019s back, and felt something wet. Withdrawing his hand, Ben was horrified to see it was covered with blood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s just had a little accident, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d said the tall man, and Ben saw red at the callous disregard in his tones. Jumping to his feet, he started towards the man, but both he and the one who had met him at the barn pulled their guns. Ben froze. \u201cJust see how far you\u2019ll get,\u201d the tall man said.<\/span><\/p>\n

The door opened and another Mexican came in. He stood aside, and a short, stocky, bearded man came in. He had all the air of an emperor, and when he spoke, his voice was cultured. \u201cIs it always necessary for you men to loot like bandits?\u201d he asked. He went to the tall man. \u201cYou disgrace us, pistollero.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The tall man muttered something, which ended with \u2018general.\u2019 Ben ignored him, and looked to the leader. \u201cI don\u2019t know who you are, General…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am General Diaz, of Juarez\u2019s army. And this is the great Ponderosa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

There was another moan from the settee, and Ben knelt by Joe\u2019s side, stripping off his neckerchief, and wadding it into a ball. He gently reached to press it to the wound on Joe\u2019s back. \u201cJuarez doesn\u2019t have an army of bandits,\u201d he said. \u201cI need a doctor for my son. He\u2019s been injured, wounded.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWounded?\u201d Diaz repeated. He glanced at the other American man standing there, the one who had been waiting for Ben in the barn. \u201cHe was to be taken as hostage only.\u201d He looked back at Ben. \u201cWhat is wrong?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s been shot in the back,\u201d Ben replied, frantically. He wasn\u2019t interested in talking to this man; he only wanted a doctor for Joe. His son was badly injured, and in shock. There were no hands on the ranch, only these bandits. But at that point, Ben would have accepted help from the devil himself, if it helped Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA doctor is impossible,\u201d said Diaz. Ben looked at him, and opened his mouth to speak, but Diaz went on. \u201cIf one of my men was seen in Virginia City, it would be very dangerous. Where is the boy\u2019s bed?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUpstairs,\u201d replied Ben, impatiently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps I know more about such wounds than you do,\u201d he said. He gestured to his men and two of them went to pick up Joe and carry him upstairs. Ben implored them to be careful, and followed close behind.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Watching Diaz pick the buckshot out of Joe\u2019s back was a painful experience for Ben. His son writhed and moaned beneath Ben\u2019s restraining hands, and cried out in agony. But finally it was done, and Ben bandaged Joe up, with the help of Sims, the man from the barn. Diaz washed the blood off his hands. He crossed back to the bed as Ben tenderly tucked Joe under the covers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Joe said. \u201cPa.\u201d His eyes remained closed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here, Joe,\u201d Ben said, stroking his head. Joe lay on his stomach, his head turned away from the door. Ben looked at Diaz. \u201cThank you,\u201d he said, although he found it difficult to be civil to a man who was holding him hostage, and who\u2019s undisciplined men had shot and badly injured his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat is a very interesting shotgun wound, is it not?\u201d Diaz said, conversationally, looking down on Joe with detachment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo shotgun wound is interesting,\u201d Ben denied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh, but this one is special,\u201d Diaz went on. \u201cThe pattern is different. It was caused by a shotgun with a sawn off barrel. If it hadn\u2019t been, your son would have died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Swallowing, Ben said, \u201cWhich of your men carries a gun like that?\u201d He was pretty sure he could take an educated guess, but Diaz said nothing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn the morning, you will come with me.\u201d Diaz began to walk to the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t leave my son,\u201d Ben said. Joe was already running a temperature.<\/span><\/p>\n

Turning, Diaz looked at him. \u201cTomorrow, some of Maximillian\u2019s men will be crossing the Ponderosa. I must be there to stop them. I might need your help to get out of the territory on the back roads. Then, you will be free to return here to your son.\u201d He paused in the doorway. \u201cPablo will be standing guard at the top of the stairs tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking at Pablo, Ben realized that there was no hope of him escaping to somehow bring help for Joe. He turned back to the bed, where Joe lay panting. He groaned. \u201cPa?\u201d he muttered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here, Joe,\u201d Ben said. \u201cI\u2019m here.\u201d He glanced at Pablo and saw the coldness in the man\u2019s eyes. Turning away, Ben heard the door click shut. He and Joe were prisoners.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

By morning, Ben had barely slept. Joe had been restless all night, and in a lot of pain. To Ben\u2019s relief, he had opened his eyes a few times, and knew where he was. Ben had told him he\u2019d been injured, and Joe had remembered the thud in his back. Finally, Joe was sleeping peacefully, but there was pain etched on his face, and he was pale to the point of transparency. Ben was concerned that perhaps they hadn\u2019t managed to get all the buckshot out of his back. But exhaustion was taking hold, and Ben\u2019s eyes closed.<\/span><\/p>\n

He had slept no more than a few minutes when the bedroom door opened, and Diaz came in. The general had been making himself at home the night before, and looked rested and refreshed. Ben startled awake, rubbing his eyes, and feeling deathly. He gazed at Diaz for a moment as memory returned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is time to leave, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Diaz said, pre-emptorily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t leave my son alone,\u201d Ben said, angrily. \u201cHe is very ill, and I can\u2019t leave him!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jerking his head, Diaz brought two men into the room. \u201cYou have a choice, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d he said. \u201cEither you come with us now, or\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Sensing what Diaz meant to do, Ben made a move to protect Joe, but he was too late. Pablo pushed past Ben to grab Joe by the hair. Sims put a gun to Ben\u2019s head. Pablo cocked his gun and laid the barrel on Joe\u2019s temple. He looked at Diaz. Joe\u2019s eyes flew open, and fastened on Ben. A cry of pain escaped his lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLeave him alone!\u201d Ben begged. \u201cPlease, leave him! Haven\u2019t you done enough to him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou will come with us, Mr. Cartwright. Cooperate, and your son will live. But if the price of your cooperation is his life, then so be it.\u201d Diaz made this chilling threat in a totally reasonable tone of voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a price Ben could never have paid. He couldn\u2019t take the chance that Diaz was not bluffing. He nodded. \u201cI\u2019ll come with you,\u201d he capitulated. \u201cPlease, don\u2019t harm my son.\u201d He looked at Diaz. \u201cI have your word that you will let me return to him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you have my word.\u201d Diaz nodded to Pablo and Sims. Pablo looked disappointed, but put away his gun and let Joe\u2019s head drop back to the pillow. The injured youth groaned. Ben hurried to his side, and soothed him back into a troubled sleep. He glared at Diaz as he was escorted from the room at gunpoint. All Ben could do was hope that Joe would survive while he was away.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was a long day for Ben. They rode out, and he was forced to wait while they ambushed the wagon in which Diaz insisted the men were carrying something that belonged to Juarez and Mexico. Ben was sickened by the killing, and almost out of his mind with worry over Joe. However, that worry was temporarily driven from his mind when he saw that the general had been shot.<\/span><\/p>\n

With Pablo shadowing his every move, they headed down to where the general lay, and Ben saw that he was alive, although he had been shot in the back, like Joe. The little man was stubborn, and got onto his horse, despite Ben\u2019s protestations. They caught up with the wagon, and found Forsythe and Sims fighting over a blonde girl dressed in buckskins, who had been hiding in the wagon. Ben guessed that Forsythe had being going to rape her. Diaz stopped the fight, and showed Ben the treasure the wagon held \u2013 gold!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI must return to your rancho,\u201d Diaz said. \u201cWe will hide there until I can ride.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Alarmed, Ben realized that he was still a prisoner of this man. Pablo, the faithful, still kept him covered with his gun. Reluctantly, Ben helped Diaz onto his horse. He could only hope that Diaz didn\u2019t die, as he knew that Forsythe wouldn\u2019t hesitate to kill either him or Joe, should he be left in command. It hadn\u2019t escaped Ben\u2019s notice that Forsythe carried a sawn-off shotgun, and he knew that he was looking at the person who had shot both Joe and his leader in the back. Ben felt nothing but contempt for the man, but knew how dangerous he was.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was dark when they reached the ranch. Ben dismounted, as told, and looked anxiously towards the house. Pablo kept him covered. Beside Ben, the girl, Molly, looked frightened. Ben touched her arm, trying to re-assure her, but he was pretty sure he didn\u2019t succeed. Diaz all but fell from his horse, and Ben wondered how on earth he had held up until now.<\/span><\/p>\n

Feeling Ben\u2019s gaze on him, Diaz gestured. \u201cTake Mr. Cartwright\u2019s horse,\u201d he said. \u201cYou may go to your son now. Take her inside, but don\u2019t try anything.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Molly,\u201d Ben said, and led her inside. He told her to make herself comfortable, poked up the fire slightly, and hurried upstairs. He forgot about the girl instantly.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was dark in Joe\u2019s room, but Ben had picked up a lamp as he went along the hall, and lit it. He could hear Joe\u2019s ragged breathing, and was horrified as the light fell on him. Joe was lying on the floor, his feet still tangled in the blankets on the bed. Fresh blood showed on the bandage on his back. \u201cJoe!\u201d Ben exclaimed, and hurried across the room to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Heat radiated from Joe\u2019s skin. As Ben gathered him in his arms, Joe\u2019s eyes opened slightly, and he focused on Ben. \u201cPa?\u201d he said, breathlessly. Tears formed in his eyes. \u201cI called,\u201d he panted. \u201cI called\u2026 and you\u2026 you didn\u2019t\u2026come.\u201d There was a fresh bruise on Joe\u2019s face. Ben wondered sickly how long his son had been lying there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, son,\u201d Ben said, a break in his voice. He silently cursed Diaz for keeping him away when his son needed him so much. \u201cLet\u2019s get you back into bed,\u201d he said, and picked Joe up.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few minutes, Joe was much more comfortable. Ben had wiped the sweat from his face and body with a cool, wet cloth and given him a much-needed drink. Under its slick coating of sweat, Joe\u2019s skin was dry and papery, and Ben knew that this was a bad sign. Joe was suffering from dehydration. Ben forced as much water as he could onto Joe, but the youth was tired, and fell asleep once more.\u00a0 Ben changed the soiled bandages as gently as possible, trying not to disturb him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sinking into the chair beside the bed, Ben rested his aching head on the back. His eyes began to drift closed. He hadn\u2019t slept in 24 hours and his body begged for rest. Ben knew he would have to sleep soon, but he tried to fight it off. However, he failed and drifted into a light doze.<\/span><\/p>\n

A hand shaking his arm roused him. Ben had no idea how long he had slept. He looked up blearily at Sims. \u201cWhat?\u201d he asked, his voice thick with sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI need your help with the general,\u201d Sims said. \u201cWe have to get that buckshot out of him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

For a minute, as his eyes fell on the bruise on Joe\u2019s face, Ben was sorely tempted to tell Sims to go to hell. However, as the man\u2019s eyes followed his gaze, he realized that he was too vulnerable to threats to further injure or kill Joe to refuse at all. Sims didn\u2019t appear to be as bloodthirsty as Forsythe, but Ben was taking no chances. \u201cAll right,\u201d he said, and rose stiffly. He bent over the bed, but Joe appeared to still be sleeping.<\/span><\/p>\n

It took longer than Ben liked to help the general. Half his mind was with Joe in the room next door. But finally it was done, and they got the general into bed. Sims went off to stand guard in the barn. Ben knew that there was gold hidden in wagon; gold that belonged to Juarez. He didn\u2019t think it would be long before Forsythe or one of the other bandits tried to steal it. He glanced at the unconscious man on the bed. Would Diaz be in any condition to offer protection if Forsythe decided to kill them all?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGeneral?\u201d Ben said, shaking him. The man didn\u2019t stir.<\/span><\/p>\n

Moving quickly, Ben went into Joe\u2019s room. His son was lying on his back, and was so still and pale that Ben\u2019s heart quaked at what he was about to do to Joe. But they had to get away. Joe needed to see a doctor. For all that Diaz had had the buckshot in him longer, he was in better shape than Joe, or he would be when he woke. Joe had a nasty infection spreading through his body and he needed medical help. Ben had to get him to town, and as soon as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

Snatching Joe\u2019s green jacket from the end of the bed where it hung on the bedpost, Ben looked for a moment at the bloodstain on the back. However, he didn\u2019t want to take time to look for anything else. \u201cJoe,\u201d he said, softly. There was no response. \u201cJoe!\u201d he repeated, a little louder. Joe groaned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d he said. Ben was relieved that Joe wasn\u2019t delirious. This was going to be hard enough on the boy as it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you\u2019ve got to put this on,\u201d he said, sliding the sleeve up Joe\u2019s left arm. He lifted Joe upright, evoking a cry of pain from his son. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cJoe, sorry. Come on.\u201d He supported Joe awkwardly as he slid the jacket round his shoulders, and put his arm into the other sleeve. It took him a moment to lay his hands on Joe\u2019s pants and boots, but he soon had them slipped on.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pulling Joe to his feet, Ben draped Joe\u2019s right arm around his shoulders, and half carried the boy from the room. The house was quiet, although Ben had the impression that there had been some sort of rumpus earlier. But he had no interest in what it was. All his attention was focused on what he had to do to get Joe to safety.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they came down stairs, Molly jumped up from where she was sitting beside the fire. \u201cHelp me get him to the seat, Molly,\u201d Ben panted. She rushed over to help, and they eased the injured boy into the blue seat. \u201cI need you to keep him in this seat until I get back,\u201d Ben ordered. \u201cDon\u2019t let him out of this room.\u201d He turned to Joe, taking the youth\u2019s head tenderly in his hands. \u201cJoe, stay here, do you understand? Don\u2019t move, boy. I\u2019ll be right back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He went to the door. \u201cMr. Cartwright,\u201d Molly cried and he turned back. \u201cWhat if you don\u2019t come back?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a question that Ben didn\u2019t have an answer for. He glanced over at Joe, and the sight of him renewed his determination. \u201cI\u2019ll be back,\u201d he said, and slipped quietly out of the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment, Molly just stood there. It had been a torrid time for her over the last while. Captured by Indians, and forced to be their slave, she had finally escaped and taken refuge in the wagon. The wagon driver had found her, but agreed not to reveal her presence. He hadn\u2019t asked for anything, but she knew his type. Then there had been the ambush, attempted rape, and then finding herself here. She wished her mind would stop whirling and allow her to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

She glanced round at Joe, and was horrified to see him lurch to his feet, using the fireplace for support. She ran across, and tried to make him sit down, but weak though he was, Joe resisted her efforts. \u201cPa,\u201d he panted. \u201cGot to get my Pa.\u201d His words were slurred, but she understood him all right.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you\u2019ve got to stay here.\u201d She slid her arms round his waist, trying to avoid touching the bandages. Joe struggled against her grip. \u201cPlease,\u201d she pleaded.<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment she thought she\u2019s won, then Joe\u2019s hands raised to cup her face, and for the first time his eyes focused on her. For an instant, she thought he was going to kiss her, and braced herself to fight him off. But he didn\u2019t. Joe stroked the hair back from her face and peered at her intently. \u201cWho are you?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Molly,\u201d she answered, but Joe had lost interest already. He pushed her aside, and staggered towards the door. The only thought in his head was that Ben was in some sort of danger, and he had to help, somehow.<\/span><\/p>\n

He had the door slightly open when Molly caught up with him. \u201cNo!\u201d she exclaimed, and slammed the door shut.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGot to get to my Pa,\u201d Joe panted. Sweat streaked his face, which was very pale. Molly was terrified he would collapse at her feet. Frightened, she fought him, but Joe was determined, and he thrust her aside and opened the door. To her horror, Joe staggered out into the darkness. For a moment she stood, irresolute, then she followed him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

In the barn, Ben had been horrified to find Sims tending to one of the wagon horses. He pretended that he\u2019d come to tend to the horses, and helped Sims wash down the animal\u2019s leg, hoping for a chance to make a break for it. He sensed that Sims wasn\u2019t like Forsythe, and was perhaps worth saving. However, at the moment, his only concern was to escape and get Joe to a doctor, and he was still looking for that chance when there was a sound from outside.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leaping to his feet, Sims drew his gun, and Ben dived at him to wrestle for it, as he recognized Joe\u2019s voice. He didn\u2019t know why his son was crossing the yard, but he didn\u2019t want anything else happening to him.\u00a0 The gun went off harmlessly into the room, just as Joe arrived in the doorway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d he cried, and collapsed to his knees. Ben rushed across, only to come face to face with Forsythe and Pablo. Molly was there, too, apologizing for letting Joe out, but Ben ignored her. He helped Joe to his feet. \u201cPa,\u201d Joe said again, but he wasn\u2019t looking at Ben. His head lolled on his shoulders, and he seemed barely able to support its weight, leaning heavily on the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat were you trying to do, escape?\u201d asked Forsythe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy son needs a doctor, look at him!\u201d Ben said, no longer scared for himself. \u201cHe could be dying!\u201d It was the first time Ben had admitted that to himself, and he really feared it could be true. Heat was burning through Joe\u2019s jacket, and he no longer seemed to be able to see properly. Certainly, he hadn\u2019t yet met anyone\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet back to the house,\u201d Sims ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Joe,\u201d Ben said, turning his son, and supporting him. Molly came to his other side to try to help. As they walked away, Ben heard Sims say something to Forsythe, but Ben was past caring. His plan had failed. Now he had to think of another way to get help.<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking Joe inside, he was glad when Molly dropped back and stayed downstairs as Ben guided Joe upwards. Gently, he eased him down onto his bed, and removed the jacket. Joe leant drunkenly against his shoulder. His breath came in ragged gasps. \u201cPa,\u201d he mumbled, and Ben looked at him. Joe was looking at him. \u201cAll right, Pa?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right, Joe,\u201d Ben said, marveling that, ill as he was, Joe could think of him at that moment. \u201cCome on, let\u2019s get you lying down.\u201d He eased his son back onto the bed, and pulled his boots and socks off. The movement made Joe cry out, and Ben decided not to bother removing his pants. It would be too much for him. Covering him, Ben took the water and offered some to Joe. The youth drank thirstily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t\u2026 feel well,\u201d Joe panted. His hand fastened on Ben\u2019s shirt. Ben wrapped his hand round it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, son,\u201d he crooned. His other hand reached to brush the hair off Joe\u2019s forehead. \u201cYou try and sleep, son.\u201d He tried to withdraw his hand, but Joe clutched tighter, looking alarmed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t\u2026 go,\u201d he pleaded. \u201cDon\u2019t\u2026want\u2026 you\u2026hurt.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one\u2019s going to hurt me,\u201d Ben soothed, tightening his grip. Joe seemed to relax, but Ben didn\u2019t know if it was his words, or the contact.\u00a0 He continued to stroke Joe\u2019s head, gaining, as well as giving, comfort. After a short time, Joe\u2019s grip loosened, and he slipped into slumber. Ben looked down at him with growing concern. He had to get that doctor out. He soaked his neckerchief in water, and draped it on Joe\u2019s head, before going to have a quick look at his other patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

The general was awake. He looked at Ben as he opened the door, and sat up stiffly. \u201cMr. Cartwright. What happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe got the buckshot out,\u201d Ben said, going over to peer out of the window. \u201cYour men don\u2019t seem to be very loyal to you, General. I think Forsythe is planning on stealing the gold you have out there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joining Ben by the window, Diaz looked out. \u201cThat pistollero, he is an animal. We must stop him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and fast,\u201d Ben agreed. He pulled the window up and started to climb out.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben responded, hesitating slightly. \u201cBut we\u2019ve got to do something.\u201d He went on out of the window.<\/span><\/p>\n

Diaz stood for a moment, listening to the sounds Ben made on the roof. His men, those that were left, were now inside the house. He eased open the door, and went into the hallway. He could hear the voices from downstairs, and knew that he had to try and stop Forsythe. Drawing a deep breath, he walked along to the top of the stairs and listened.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was no mistake. Forsythe wanted the gold, and he would stop at nothing to get it. Diaz walked slowly down the stairs, unarmed, and felt the tall American hesitate as he appeared. \u201cNo, I will not allow this,\u201d he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Forsythe drew his gun, the door opened, and a shot was fired. Sims, standing in front of the fire, dropped his gun and clutched his shoulder before falling to the floor. Diaz threw himself across the room at the distracted Forsythe. They wrestled for the gun, Diaz proving how strong he was, despite his injury. The gun was between them when it went off.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Diaz dropped to the floor, Forsythe heard a grunt as his henchman was floored by Ben Cartwright, who had dived in the front door, catching the man off guard. Ben snatched up the fallen pistol, rolled across the floor, and fired at Forsythe. His aim was good, and Forsythe clutched his stomach before dropping down, dead.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Ben regained his feet, he saw Molly kneeling by Sims, calling him \u2019Johnny\u2019 as she had done in the barn. He spared a second to wonder what was going on there, but that was all. He knelt by Diaz, but the man was already dead. Ben knelt back on his heels. It was over. \u201cGod keep our country,\u201d he muttered aloud.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was no time for thought. Ben heard a sound from the stairs and turned in time to see Joe appear. \u201cPa,\u201d he gasped. From somewhere, Joe had found a gun, and was wielding it in a shaky hand. \u201cPa,\u201d he said, again, and missed the step, tumbling down the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leaping to his feet, Ben rushed over to where Joe lay in a tumbled heap on the landing. \u201cJoe,\u201d he said, lifting his son\u2019s head. \u201cCan you hear me?\u201d There was a lump on Joe\u2019s head where he had hit it off the spindles, but no blood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re\u2026safe\u2026\u201d Joe gasped, opening his eyes. The gun clattered from his fingers to the floor. \u201cShooting\u2026 scared\u2026 something\u2026happened\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s voice trailed off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me help you,\u201d Molly said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMolly, I need you to ride into Virginia City and get the doctor out here,\u201d Ben said. \u201cAs fast as you can. Do you know the way?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d she quavered. She looked round at where Sims lay by the fire. \u201cBut Joe and Johnny. You need help here, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey both need the doctor more than I need you here. Please, Molly, get the doctor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo as he says, Molly,\u201d Sims added. \u201cQuickly.\u201d He clutched his hand to his shoulder, but the blood was streaming between his fingers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Molly said, and ran from the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back to help you as soon as I can,\u201d Ben said to Sims, as he helped Joe sit up. The wound on his back was bleeding again. \u201cI\u2019ve got to get Joe to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d Sims insisted. \u201cDo what you have to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Ben struggled upstairs, supporting Joe, he was thankful that Sims wasn\u2019t as nasty as he had at first appeared. He hoped he wasn\u2019t too badly injured, but Ben\u2019s first priority had to be Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It seemed to take forever before Paul Martin arrived at the ranch. Ben heard the horses and went down. Sims was sitting on the settee, and had managed to find a cloth to staunch the bleeding. He waved the doctor away. \u201cI\u2019ll be just fine,\u201d he said. \u201cYou tend to young Joe up there. He needs you real bad, doc.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe girl said Joe was shot in the back,\u201d Paul said, as he hurried upstairs. \u201cWhen did it happen?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLast night,\u201d Ben said. \u201cHe was shot by someone using a sawn-off shotgun. We took the buckshot out, but I don\u2019t know if we got it all. He was pretty roughly handled, and I tried to get him out of here a few hours ago, and then he fell down stairs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand any of this,\u201d Paul admitted, fighting down an urge to laugh, for it sounded so farcical. \u201cHow did he come to fall down stairs? Why didn\u2019t you get me out here last night? Ben, you aren\u2019t making any sense.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking a deep breath, Ben started at the beginning, and told Paul the whole story. The physician listened quietly, his eyes wide. \u201cSounds to me like you\u2019re right, Ben,\u201d he said. \u201cThere could still be buckshot in there. Are you able to help me? I can do this myself, or that girl can help. You need to rest, and soon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can help,\u201d Ben insisted. \u201cWhat do you need?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHot water, bandages, and cloths.\u201d Paul opened the door to Joe\u2019s room and went in. The youth was lying on his stomach, head turned to the door. Joe was paper colored from loss of blood, and his face was covered in a sheen of sweat. Paul took his wrist between sensitive fingers and felt his pulse. \u201cI\u2019ll give him something for the pain, then the ether. We\u2019ll need to watch him carefully, Ben.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Touching Joe\u2019s head briefly, Ben bent his weary head so that Paul didn\u2019t see the anguish on his face. But Paul was an old friend, and knew Ben very well. \u201cI\u2019ll do everything I can for him, Ben, I promise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben choked. He straightened. \u201cI\u2019ll get what you need.\u201d As he left the room, Ben heard Paul talking to Joe. He blinked back tears, and went downstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was a tricky operation. Paul had to re-open all the areas on Joe\u2019s back to check for buckshot, and he found several pieces. Finally satisfied that he had them all, Paul cleaned the area with alcohol, and began to stitch Joe up again. He swathed Joe in bandages from armpits to waist to hold down the padded dressings he\u2019d used. At last, he removed the ether mask and they settled Joe comfortably on his stomach.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019ll be all right,\u201d Paul said. \u201cHe\u2019s young and strong, and he\u2019s the most stubborn cuss I ever met.\u201d He looked at Ben, seeing the dark circles under his eyes. \u201cBen, get some rest while I tend to that young man downstairs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d Ben protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you\u2019re not,\u201d Paul said. \u201cYou either lie down and rest, or I\u2019ll give you something to make you sleep.\u201d He smiled to soften the sting of the words. \u201cThe young lady can help me.\u201d He went over to the door, and stopped. \u201cOh, Ben, I forgot, I have a wire for you from Adam. Where is it?\u201d He patted his pockets, and finally found the paper, which he handed over. He looked with interest at his friend\u2019s face as he read it. \u201cGood news?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam and Hoss are on their way home, and should be here soon,\u201d he said. He bent over the bed. \u201cHear that, son?\u201d he whispered. \u201cYour brothers are coming.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, Paul went downstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

By morning, Ben had had a few precious hours of sleep; Sims had had the bullet removed from his shoulder, and was almost as good as new. Paul had sat with Joe, fighting the youth\u2019s fever, and by morning, he was sure Joe would pull through. His fever was still high, but the boy had opened his eyes, and tried to smile at Paul. He was incredibly weak, and would be for some time. Paul hadn\u2019t really been surprised to learn that Joe had twice tried to rescue his father from situations he had perceived as dangerous the previous night, even in his highly weakened state. That was typically Joe \u2013 or any of the Cartwrights, when another was in danger.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you going to do about this, Ben?\u201d Paul asked, when Ben was once more awake and by Joe\u2019s side. \u201cYou can\u2019t not tell Roy about it. You know by law I have to report an injury like this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell him,\u201d Ben said. \u201cThe man who did it is dead downstairs. They both are.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Sims?\u201d Paul probed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s going to take the gold back to Juarez,\u201d Ben said. \u201cOh, I know I probably should do something else, but that\u2019s only right. He was prepared to give his life for the gold. Roy doesn\u2019t have to know about him, does he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess not,\u201d Paul agreed. \u201cDo you think that it\u2019s over, Ben? Nobody will come looking for that gold, will, they?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben admitted. \u201cBut the gold isn\u2019t here. That will be obvious to everyone. Sims will leave today. Molly will stay here until he returns, then see what they want to do. She\u2019s had a hard time, Paul, and needs the time to get used to living with dignity again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve got a heart of gold,\u201d Paul said, admiringly. Ben shrugged the praise off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEveryone deserves a second chance,\u201d he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

By mid-morning, Sims was on his way with the gold, and Pablo, Diaz\u2019 henchman. Molly had cried after he was gone, but she rallied quickly, and set about tidying up some of the mess in the house. Shortly after lunch, Ben heard hooves, and looked out to see Roy Coffee, sheriff of Virginia City arrive in the yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back, Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cThat\u2019s Roy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Joe responded. He was lying on his back, propped up on all the pillows Ben could find. His fever was down a good bit, and his color was better. Ben had been plying him with liquids all morning, and Molly had cooked up some chicken soup from some leftovers she had found. \u201cDon\u2019t be long,\u201d he said, and Ben smiled. He knew how anxious Joe was, the result of being left alone that first day when he was so ill. The bruise on his cheek seemed to shine with particular virulence that day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t,\u201d Ben promised.<\/span><\/p>\n

He was as good as his word, returning within five minutes with Roy in tow. The sheriff looked shocked as he saw Joe. \u201cDid you see who did this, Joe?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I didn\u2019t see anyone,\u201d Joe replied. His voice was thin. \u201cAll I felt was a thud in my back, and the pain. I don\u2019t remember much after that. Just Pa telling me to get up, as we had to leave.\u201d Joe frowned. Ben offered him a drink, which Joe gulped down. \u201cThere was a girl, I think, and Pa was at the barn. I don\u2019t remember much more until I heard shooting downstairs. I found that gun in my dresser. I was worried that Pa had been hurt.\u201d He grimaced. \u201cI fell, but Pa was all right.\u201d Unconsciously, Joe flexed the ankle he had sprained falling downstairs. It twinged violently, and he winced. Even his toes were bruised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNearly done, Joe,\u201d Roy said, seeing how tired the youth was. \u201cDid you see any of them?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Closing his eyes for a minute, Joe tried valiantly to remember. \u201cI think one of them was American,\u201d he said, finally. \u201cBut I don\u2019t remember any faces.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Little Joe. You rest now, and I\u2019ll see you once you\u2019re better.\u201d Roy moved over to the door. \u201cI\u2019ll go down and talk to the girl.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be there in a minute,\u201d Ben said. He bent over Joe. \u201cI\u2019ll just be downstairs. I\u2019ll leave the door open, so shout if you need anything. All right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Joe agreed. His eyes, a color as mercurial as his nature, were very green that day. They were also glazed with exhaustion. \u201cG\u2019night,\u201d he mumbled, and his eyes drifted shut.<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly choked with emotion, Ben could barely breathe out, \u201cSleep well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Downstairs, Roy was talking to Molly, trying to find out about the Indian raid that led to her captivity. He was quite tactful, but it was clear Molly didn\u2019t want to speak of her ordeal. Ben really didn\u2019t blame her. Roy didn\u2019t push her. Finally finished, he went out to the barn, where the bodies were lying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf\u2019n you\u2019ll lend me your wagon, I\u2019ll take these bodies into Boot Hill,\u201d he said. \u201cIt seems funny to me that the gold just disappeared like that, Ben, but you had enough to worry about with Joe. Is he going to be all right? He don\u2019t look so good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s getting better,\u201d Ben said. For an instant, his conscience twinged, but he guessed that Roy would have wanted to confiscate the gold, not return it to Juarez. Well, it was done, and Ben would live with whatever happened. He sighed. The few hours\u2019 rest he had had weren\u2019t really enough, and Joe needed a lot of attention. \u201cI\u2019d better get back. He\u2019s a little anxious right now, Roy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can understand that,\u201d Roy said. \u201cHe\u2019s been through a lot. So have you, Ben. Get plenty of rest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will,\u201d Ben assured him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As darkness fell, Joe\u2019s fever rose again. Ben was exhausted, but he sent Molly for cold water, and began to bathe Joe\u2019s head. Joe was lucid, which was something of a relief for Ben. He gave Joe the pain relief that Paul had left for him, and wondered if he ought to send for the doctor again. Paul had said he would be back, but he had a large area to cover single-handed, and there was no guarantee when he would arrive. Alone, Ben worked to lower Joe\u2019s fever.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoof beats sounded in the yard, and Ben rose wearily to peer outside. Molly had long gone to bed. It was another dark, moonless night, and it was impossible to see who the riders were at first. Then one moved into the feeble glow of the porch light, and Ben recognized his son Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Glancing at Joe, who was asleep at that moment, Ben went downstairs to greet his sons. \u201cAdam, Hoss,\u201d he said, opening the door for them. \u201cIts good to have you back, sons.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d Adam asked, surprised at the catch in his father\u2019s voice. \u201cHas something happened while we were away?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As his sons removed their hats and gun belts, Ben told them what had happened. He told them the full version, then the version he\u2019d told Roy Coffee. By then, they were sitting in front of the fire, and Ben felt exhausted, reliving it all again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Joe now?\u201d Hoss asked, worriedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a little better, but his temperature has risen again tonight,\u201d Ben said, wearily. \u201cHe was sleeping, but he hasn\u2019t been able to get much rest.\u201d With a sigh, he rose to his feet. \u201cI\u2019d better get back to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re coming with you,\u201d Adam said, firmly. \u201cAnd then, you can get some rest, and I\u2019ll sit with Joe. You look exhausted.\u201d In fact, Ben looked more than exhausted. He was unshaven and had dark circles under his eyes. Adam thought that if he didn\u2019t some rest, Joe wouldn\u2019t be the only one who was sick.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d Ben protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Hoss said, putting his large hand on Ben\u2019s shoulder, \u201cyou ain\u2019t all right. You get some sleep, and let Adam and me look after Shortshanks up there. If\u2019n you don\u2019t go willingly, I\u2019ll make you go to bed.\u201d He made a fist and shook it in Ben\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, Ben nodded. \u201cAll right, you win!\u201d He went upstairs with Hoss\u2019 hand still warm and comforting on his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he went into Joe\u2019s room, his youngest son spoke. \u201cPa? Where were you?\u201d He sounded slightly panicky. He tried to prop himself on one elbow, but made a stifled grunt of pain, and lay back down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right, son. I went down to greet someone.\u201d He gestured to the others. \u201cLook who\u2019s home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Crowding close to the bed, Adam and Hoss grinned at Joe, hiding their shock at seeing him so weak and pale. \u201cHey, brothers,\u201d Joe said, somewhat breathlessly. \u201cNice of you to come back when the excitement\u2019s over.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d be careful if I were you,\u201d Adam joked. \u201cPa\u2019s going to get some sleep, and I\u2019m in charge.\u201d He reached down to ruffle Joe\u2019s curls, and felt the heat radiating from his skin. \u201cFirst thing is you get some sleep, too, all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll try,\u201d Joe agreed. He moved restlessly, obviously still in some pain, despite the medicine he\u2019d received a short while before. \u201cCan I get a drink?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam got Joe some water, Hoss began to usher Ben to the door. He knew how hard it was to get Ben away from Joe when he was sick. \u201cGood night, Joe,\u201d Ben said, hesitating at the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNight, pa,\u201d Joe replied. He sounded tired and Ben felt a renewed twinge of worry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo to bed, Pa,\u201d Adam ordered. \u201cI\u2019ll wake you if anything happens.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, Ben did as he was bid. He lay down on top of the bed fully clothed, and fell asleep at once.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was well into the next day before Ben wakened. He washed and changed, and went along to see how Joe was doing. Hoss was sitting with him, and Joe was asleep. The sheen of sweat was gone from his face, and when Ben gently stroked his head, he could feel that the youth\u2019s fever was down.<\/span><\/p>\n

The only person downstairs was Adam. \u201cWhere\u2019s Molly?\u201d Ben asked, curiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sent her into town with one of the hands to get some clothes,\u201d Adam explained. \u201cShe was obviously uncomfortable in those buckskins.\u201d He glanced at the clock. \u201cThey shouldn\u2019t be much longer, I wouldn\u2019t think.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat was good of you, son,\u201d Ben said, helping himself to coffee. \u201cI meant to do that myself, but I couldn\u2019t leave Joe. How was he last night?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRestless,\u201d Adam answered, also helping himself to coffee. \u201cHe sees to still be in some pain from his wound. It must have been pretty bad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was,\u201d Ben replied, his eyes gazing at some internal vista that Adam couldn\u2019t see. \u201cBut it could have been much worse. He might have died if it hadn\u2019t been a sawn-off shotgun.\u201d Ben shuddered. \u201cAnd he had to endure the first operation without painkillers, or ether.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat must be Molly,\u201d Adam said, as they heard a wagon rattle into the yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

Together, they rose and went to the door. It was Molly all right, but she looked alarmed. She jumped form the wagon and ran over. \u201cMr. Cartwright, there are soldiers coming \u2013 Mexican soldiers! We saw them in town talking to the sheriff, and they\u2019re heading this way!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cInside, quickly,\u201d Ben instructed. The hand was already moving the wagon. \u201cAdam, get the guns. There might not be fighting, but we\u2019ve got to be prepared.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRight, Pa,\u201d Adam answered, hurrying back indoors. Ben ran a hand through his hair, before turning to join him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It wasn\u2019t long before the soldiers appeared. They were wearing the same uniforms as Ben had seen the other wearing. They trotted into the yard in formation, and the leader dismounted. Opening the door, Ben went warily out to meet him. \u201cCan I help you?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you Senor Cartwright?\u201d the man asked. Ben could see by his stripes that he was a corporal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am,\u201d he answered stiffly. \u201cWhat can I do for you, Corporal?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am looking for a shipment of gold that was due to arrive in San Francisco the day before yesterday, and did not arrive.\u201d His English was superb, and almost accent less.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow does this concern me?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe gold was crossing your land, Senor, and we have a report by the sheriff that you saw it being intercepted by some bandidos. Is this true?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Sighing, Ben nodded. \u201cYou know it is; you spoke to the sheriff. So you also know that I don\u2019t have the least idea where the gold ended up. I was a hostage, along with my son, of the leader of these bandits. I don\u2019t know what became of the gold. It might have been stolen for all I know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think that is unlikely,\u201d the corporal said. \u201cI intend to search your house and barn. I believe you stole the gold yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Drawing himself up to his full height, Ben pierced the corporal with a steely glare. \u201cIndeed you will not search my house and barn. I have told you the gold is not here. I will not permit you to enter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think you can stop me,\u201d sneered the other. \u201cYou are alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A shot kicked dirt by the corporal\u2019s foot and he flinched. Adam appeared around the side of the house, a rifle held in his hands. He wasn\u2019t pointing it at the soldiers, but it was clear to them all that he was ready and willing to use if instantly. \u201cNot alone,\u201d he said. \u201cI suggest you leave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With flared nostrils, the corporal glared at Adam before turning back to Ben. \u201cThis is not the end of this, senor,\u201d he warned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet out and don\u2019t come back,\u201d Ben said, angrily. \u201cI don\u2019t have your gold.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He and Adam stood and watched as the soldier re-mounted and they all rode away. Only then did they relax. \u201cHe\u2019ll be back,\u201d Adam predicted, going over to stand beside Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben said. \u201cAnd we need to be ready.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

All the rest of that day, they watched and waited. Ben detailed hands to stand guard, and he dotted guns throughout the house. He then spent some time with Joe, who was looking much better. Paul Martin still hadn\u2019t appeared, but Ben was less concerned about this than he had been the previous night. However, he didn\u2019t have much of the painkilling medicine left, and was worried about how Joe would cope without it. Bravely, he had no doubt, and without complaint, but he didn\u2019t want his son to suffer any more.<\/span><\/p>\n

Later in the afternoon, Hop Sing arrived home with the chuck wagon. He hadn\u2019t seen the soldiers lurking about, but he hadn\u2019t been looking for them, either. He promptly evicted Molly from the kitchen, and set about making a meal for the family. Molly, set free from her chores, went to try on the clothes she had bought that morning, and emerged from her room just before supper in a pretty pink dress, blushing shyly at the compliments she received.<\/span><\/p>\n

Supper was eaten quickly and without much conversation. Hop Sing took a tray up to Joe and coaxed the young man into eating most of what there was. Dusk was falling softly as they rose from the table, and the first shot splintered the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking cover, they scrambled for the weapons to return fire. \u201cCartwright, we want the gold!\u201d shouted a voice. \u201cGive it up, and we\u2019ll let you live!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have the gold!\u201d Ben called back.<\/span><\/p>\n

A barrage of rifle fire was his only answer. A bullet splintered the wood above Adam\u2019s ear, as he fired out of the door, and he hastily drew back inside. \u201cThey\u2019re coming across the yard,\u201d he reported. \u201cI\u2019ll go upstairs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Ben nodded. He fired at a dark figure running across the yard, and was rewarded when it went down and stayed down.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upstairs, Adam went to the front window, where he had a better view. He was able to pick off a few before they pinpointed his location, and sent a hail of bullets in his direction. Adam barely drew back in time to avoid being hit. As it was, the window disintegrated in a shower of glass, and Adam had to duck anew.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lying in bed, Joe listened anxiously to the gunfire. It seemed to be coming from all around the house, and he wished he were able to help out. However, when his father had been telling him about the soldiers earlier, he had warned Joe in no uncertain terms to stay put in bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was the sound of shattering glass from the next room and Joe flinched. He half raised himself, then lay back down. There was nothing he could do. He didn\u2019t have a gun, and he couldn\u2019t walk, anyway. Even sitting up caused his head to spin yet. It was the blood loss, Ben had assured him, and would settle in time. That wasn\u2019t terribly reassuring now, Joe thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

A sound, distinctly different from the crack of gunfire attracted Joe\u2019s attention, and he glanced at the window. There was someone on the roof! Fear thumped through Joe\u2019s gut, and he made a gargantuan effort to get out of bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

He was still struggling with his covers on his sore foot when the soldier cleared the window frame. He pointed his gun at Joe and cocked it slowly and deliberately. \u201cDo not move,\u201d he said. He straightened up and shouted something in Spanish out of the window. A moment later, the gunfire stopped.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frozen in place, feeling pain spreading across his back, Joe watched the man warily. He couldn\u2019t maintain his half-propped position, and flopped back, letting out a grunt of pain as he did so. The soldier didn\u2019t move, except to smile grimly.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was more shouting out in the yard, but no more gunfire. Joe had the nasty creeping suspicion that he was a hostage once more, and that the soldiers were using him to try and get the gold from Ben. He swallowed against the sudden dryness in his throat. What would they do when they discovered that there really wasn\u2019t any gold hidden on the Ponderosa?<\/span><\/p>\n

Footsteps sounded on the stairs, and the soldier crossed the room to lay his gun against Joe\u2019s head. His door opened, and Joe swiveled his eyes to see his father\u2019s shocked white face. \u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d he croaked, although he wasn\u2019t sure as to the veracity of the statement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re despicable,\u201d Ben hissed to the man standing by his side. \u201cMy son is injured.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat is not my concern, Senor. But if you want your son to live, you will tell me where the gold is.\u201d The corporal stepped aside, and let another of his men into the room. He, too crossed to the bed, and grabbing Joe\u2019s hands, began to bind them roughly together. \u201cEvery moment you hesitate only adds to your son\u2019s torments,\u201d the corporal went on.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have the gold,\u201d Ben protested. \u201cIt hasn\u2019t been here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The corporal nodded to his men, who hauled Joe into a sitting position. The movement was rough and Joe couldn\u2019t quite bite back the cry of pain that rose to his lips. He saw Ben flinch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTry again,\u201d the corporal demanded. \u201cThe truth this time. Where is the other Americano who was with Diaz?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his head, his eyes fastened on Joe. He knew that Hoss was downstairs, a prisoner of the soldiers, but he hadn\u2019t seen Adam. He didn\u2019t know if his oldest son was still alive, and his youngest was in peril again, and all for some gold he no longer had. He wondered how far Sims had managed to get, and if he dared tell the truth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t see all his men,\u201d he said, desperately. \u201cI didn\u2019t know there was another American with him. I only saw one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA fine story,\u201d sneered the man. He nodded again, and Joe was dragged to his feet. The sudden change of position caused Joe\u2019s head to swim wildly and he lost color dramatically. Gasping for breath, he couldn\u2019t decide if the pain in his back or his ankle was worst at that moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Blinking, Joe managed to focus his eyes, and saw the worried look on Ben\u2019s face. He didn\u2019t have the breath to reassure his father that he was all right, and he doubted if Ben would\u2019ve believed him anyway. There was the faintest of movement from behind Ben and Joe squinted at it. It was difficult to see in the unlit hallway, but it was as though someone was standing there. Then Joe realized that it was Adam, difficult to see because he was dressed all in black, as usual. It was the perfect camouflage.<\/span><\/p>\n

It would only be a matter of moments before the soldiers spotted him, Joe realized, and knew he had to do something. Hoping his father would forgive him, and that the soldier with the gun by his head wasn\u2019t paying attention, Joe made his move.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a theatrical groan, Joe dropped to the floor like a stone. He fell against the soldier with the gun, knocking him over, and causing the gun to discharge into the ceiling. Pain rocketed through his back like a branding iron and Joe cried aloud.<\/span><\/p>\n

Out in the hallway, Adam took the chance his youngest brother had given him, and crashed his gun down on the corporal\u2019s head. As the man folded, Adam shoved Ben forcibly out of the way, and fired at the remaining soldier, catching him high in the arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

But the danger wasn\u2019t over. The first soldier, the one Joe had knocked down, had regained his feet, and was aiming at Joe. Adam didn\u2019t even think about firing. He simply dived across the room. The startled man raised his eyes from his helpless target, and started to change his aim. Joe gathered the last of his strength and grabbed the man\u2019s ankle, yanking his feet out from underneath him. He toppled over backwards, and the gun fired again, this time barely missing Ben, who stood paralyzed in the doorway. Then Adam was on top of the man, and there was no chance for him to fire again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Panting, Adam rolled off the unconscious man, and covered the injured soldier. However, the fight was knocked out of him, and he sat on the floor, clutching his arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d shouted Hoss from downstairs. \u201cPa! Are you all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re all right, son,\u201d Ben returned, and speaking seemed to release the spell of horror he\u2019d been held by, and he hurried across the room to his sons. \u201cAdam, are you all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d Adam responded. He looked over as Hoss burst in the door, gun drawn and ready. \u201cKeep an eye on them,\u201d he said, and crouched by Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben already had Joe cradled in his arms, and was struggling one handed to untie his hands. Joe was biting his lip, clearly in pain, but he managed a slight smile at Adam, as his brother took over freeing his hands. \u201cWe make\u2026 a pretty good team\u2026 don\u2019t we, big brother?\u201d he panted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe best, Joe,\u201d Adam agreed, fighting with the rough hemp. \u201cThe best.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought something dreadful had happened,\u201d Ben said, stroking Joe\u2019s head. \u201cJoe, you scared me out of ten years!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Pa,\u201d Joe said, contritely. \u201cBut I was frightened that something would happen to you and Adam. I could see Adam moving behind you, and I was scared they would shoot him. And I didn\u2019t know where Hoss was.\u201d He looked over at his middle brother, and was relieved to see that he was unharmed. \u201cI had to do something.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou gave the chance I needed, Joe,\u201d Adam said, patting his leg. \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get him back to bed,\u201d Ben said. He looked no less concerned. \u201cJoe, you\u2019re bleeding.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Joe admitted. He was quite pale again. \u201cI felt the stitches burst when I fell.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I don\u2019t quite know what to say,\u201d Ben admitted. \u201cYou took a terrible risk.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI knew what I was doing,\u201d Joe said. \u201cAnd a few burst stitches is worth your life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Blinking back the tears, Ben nodded to Adam, and together, they lifted Joe gently back to the bed. Ben tucked him in, and blotted the sweat from his face. \u201cThank you, son,\u201d he whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Pa,\u201d Joe said.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

About a month later, a lone horseman rode into the yard of the Ponderosa. Joe, who was sitting in the porch rocker with his foot up, eyed the stranger warily. The man dismounted and walked across, looking around him. \u201cCan I help you?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s good to see you up and around,\u201d the men responded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you?\u201d Joe asked, certain he\u2019d never seen this man before in his life. He wished suddenly that he had his gun with him. Joe was very much better, but he wasn\u2019t up to a brawl.<\/span><\/p>\n

The door opened wider, and Ben came out, drawn by the voices. \u201cSims!\u201d he exclaimed. \u201cMolly! Come here please.\u201d He strode forward and extended his hand to shake Sims\u2019 hand. \u201cHow are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, thanks, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d Sims glanced down at Joe, who was looking at him less warily now. \u201cI was just telling Joe how well he was looking, but I gather you don\u2019t remember me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t,\u201d Joe admitted. \u201cBut I know who you are now, Mr. Sims.\u201d He reached up to shake hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

Light footsteps sounded in the house and Sims turned to the door, his face lighting up with anticipation. Joe turned his head in time to see Molly appear in the doorway. The month that she had loved with the Cartwrights had done her the world of good. She had lost the brittle, defensive shyness that had marked her first few days with them, and blossomed into a pretty young girl. \u201cJohnny!\u201d she cried, and flung herself into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Joe,\u201d Ben said, helping his son to his feet. \u201cLet\u2019s leave them alone for a while.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Limping slowly into the house, Joe looked at Ben. \u201cSo he\u2019s the one who took the gold back to Juarez? Seems like a nice guy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think so,\u201d Ben replied. He helped Joe to the sofa and sat down. \u201cI hope they can make a go of things.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A few minutes later, Sims and Molly came back into the house. Molly\u2019s face was glowing with happiness. \u201cI want to thank you for everything you\u2019ve done for me, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d she said. \u201cI\u2019ll be leaving with Johnny in the morning.\u201d She blushed. \u201cWe\u2019re to be married.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s wonderful,\u201d Ben said. \u201cWhere are you going to go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOregon,\u201d Sims replied. \u201cLand free for the taking, as you said, Mr. Cartwright. But I got a reward from Juarez, and I have enough money to get started and take care of Molly properly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s wonderful,\u201d Ben said, warmly. \u201cCongratulations.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to thank you, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Sims said. \u201cIf it hadn\u2019t been for you, and what you said that night in the barn, I might have gone off with Forsythe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think so, Johnny,\u201d Ben said. \u201cI don\u2019t think your conscience would have allowed you to do that, do you Molly?\u201d he said, looking at the girl by his side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t think so either,\u201d Molly agreed. She gave Sims a look of adoration, and they drifted off to talk about their future together.<\/span><\/p>\n

Left alone, Ben and Joe sat silently for a minute. \u201cThey are lucky to have come out of this alive,\u201d Joe commented. \u201cSims could have been killed taking that gold back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Heaving a sigh, Ben nodded. \u201cWe were all lucky to come out of this alive,\u201d he agreed. \u201cYou especially.\u201d Joe made a rueful face. His strength was creeping slowly back, but he didn\u2019t know when he would be back at work. \u201cAre you all right?\u201d Ben went on. \u201cTired?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m all right,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cI just want to sit here for a while longer.\u201d He smiled at Ben and they sat silently together, reflecting on how lucky they had all been to escape their encounter with The Deadly Ones.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Thanks to N.B. Stone Jr., for writing this episode, which inspired this story.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0Based on the episode, this is the story we didn’t see.<\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0\u00a0(10,335 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":6000,"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":[23,27],"tags":[14,16],"class_list":["post-1616","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-whi","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-27-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":5286,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SJS-Stories.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":6768,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6768","url_meta":{"origin":1616,"position":0},"title":"A Deadly Day (by rosecartwright)","author":"rosecartwright","date":"November 4, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe is home sick, but things go downhill for this young Cartwright. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (635 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\/11\/2-joe.jpg?fit=237%2C221&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":6742,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6742","url_meta":{"origin":1616,"position":1},"title":"Grazed (by Jayne)","author":"Jayne","date":"May 4, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0When Adam finds a slightly injured Joe, they share a strangely special moment. \u00a0A Young Cartwright short story. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ \u00a0WC \u00a0767","rel":"","context":"In "Adam \/ Joe"","block_context":{"text":"Adam \/ Joe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1091"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12120,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12120","url_meta":{"origin":1616,"position":2},"title":"Blundered Seduction (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"December 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Caught with his pants down and in a compromising situation by the one person he'd least likely want to find him as such, Joe learns three valuable lessons; no one ever died of embarrassment, chose your friends carefully, and being 16 and still a virgin is nothing to be\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":2951,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2951","url_meta":{"origin":1616,"position":3},"title":"The End (by faust)","author":"faust","date":"June 8, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"It's the end. The end of everything--or is it? No KAOS in this story. Honestly! 700 words, rated K","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\/The-Gift-of-Water-4.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/The-Gift-of-Water-4.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/The-Gift-of-Water-4.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":7580,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7580","url_meta":{"origin":1616,"position":4},"title":"The Wheelchair (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0Years later Adam\u2019s wheelchair from \u201cThe Triangle\u201d comes out of the attic. Rated:\u00a0K+\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0667 The Wheelchair Series, links to stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Bird.jpg?fit=323%2C450&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":12132,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12132","url_meta":{"origin":1616,"position":5},"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":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1616","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=1616"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1616\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/6000"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1616"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1616"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1616"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}