{"id":1634,"date":"2002-08-10T15:36:59","date_gmt":"2002-08-10T19:36:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1634"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:32:08","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:32:08","slug":"clay","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1634","title":{"rendered":"Clay (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0<\/strong><\/span>A sequel to the episode First Born. \u00a0<\/span> A chance meeting in an hotel reunites Joe with his brother Clay. But is Clay’s past about to catch up with him again?<\/span><\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0 \u00a0(10,585 words)<\/p>\n

Clay<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tired, hot and dirty, Adam, Hoss and Joe Cartwright entered the hotel and crossed to the desk. The clerk on duty came to greet them with a smile which didn\u2019t quite disguise the fact that he thought these cowboys should be looking for rooms elsewhere. \u201cGentlemen,\u201d he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThree rooms, please,\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCertainly. That will be a dollar a day, per room.\u201d The clerk looked them up and down, clearly implying that they didn\u2019t have the money.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll take them for two nights,\u201d Adam said, and pulled a roll of money from his vest. \u201c The name\u2019s Cartwright. Can we get hot water for baths, too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Sir,\u201d the clerk said, suddenly obsequious. \u201c Baths cost extra.\u201d Adam paid the extra money. \u201cRooms three, four and five, just at the top of the stairs. \u201c<\/span><\/p>\n

Hefting their saddlebags, the brothers trudged upstairs and found their rooms. They were airy and comfortable, but most important to the tired men were the soft beds. They had been three weeks on the trail, on the annual cattle drive to Sacramento. It had been three hard weeks, as the weather had taken a bad turn, and most nights they had tried to sleep with rain pouring down on them.<\/span><\/p>\n

The hot water for their baths arrived quickly, and after washing and shaving, they felt almost human again. It was Hoss, of course, who rounded up his brothers for a meal, and they ate in companionable silence.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leaning back in his chair, Joe, the youngest, broke the silence. \u201cSure beats your cooking, Hoss,\u201d he joked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Still eating, Hoss cast Joe a dirty look. \u201cDidn\u2019t notice you offerin\u2019 to cook,\u201d he retorted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, please,\u201d Adam groaned. \u201cJoe\u2019s cooking is worse than yours!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe exchanged incredulous glances. \u201cOf course, you are such a stupendous cook, big brother, that we were all queuing up to eat what you made!\u201d Joe laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour cooking is worse than mine,\u201d Adam replied, calmly, cleaning his plate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve had fewer years to practice,\u201d Joe replied, and giggled. \u201cWhat\u2019s your excuse?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A movement behind Joe caught Adam\u2019s attention as he smiled at his brother. A man stood outlined against the door of the hotel, and he seemed familiar somehow. But before Adam could place him, the man went out of the door, without looking round. Adam drew his attention back to Joe. \u201cI can\u2019t be good at everything,\u201d he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

That set Joe off again, and he giggled helplessly. Hoss and Adam exchanged quizzical smiles, but Joe\u2019s laugh was so infectious that they were soon laughing along with him, even though they weren\u2019t sure what they were laughing at. \u201cI never thought I\u2019d hear the day, Adam,\u201d Joe spluttered, \u201cwhen you admitted you weren\u2019t good at everything!\u201d He went off into gales of laughter again at the look on his oldest brother\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, a little more respect, if you please,\u201d Adam said, mock seriously, which only made Joe laugh harder.<\/span><\/p>\n

They lingered for a while over coffee, but exhaustion was quickly catching them up, and finally they paid for their meal, and went back to their rooms. \u201cDon\u2019t waken me in the morning,\u201d Joe warned Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam simply cocked an eyebrow and said nothing. Bidding one another goodnight, they all headed for bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

It was well past 10 am before any of the Cartwrights woke the next day. The sun was shining brightly, and they were all glad to see it, after the dark, wet weather they had endured recently. Adam roused Joe at last, and they all headed out for breakfast. Hoss and Adam ate heartily, but Joe merely picked at his food. \u201cI told you not to wake me,\u201d he grouched.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard you,\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cBut I didn\u2019t say that I wouldn\u2019t wake you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere are times,\u201d Joe commented sourly, \u201cthat I wonder if we are related. How can you be so cheerful in the morning?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIts nearly lunchtime,\u201d Hoss contributed, which started both his brothers to laughing. Hoss could always be relied on to make peace between his brothers. \u201c\u2019Sides, we got some things to take care of today. Then we can head back for home tomorrow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s get started then,\u201d Joe said, watching as Hoss continued to put away food like he\u2019d been starved for weeks.\u00a0Well,<\/em>\u00a0Joe reflected,\u00a0I suppose he has!\u00a0<\/em>And he began to laugh to himself again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave Joe a disgusted look. \u201cHoss, is this shrieking hyena with you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNope,\u201d Hoss said. \u201cI figured he was with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It was impossible for either of them to keep a straight face as Joe whooped with laughter at his brothers\u2019 kidding.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

After they had finished eating, they split up to deal with the various jobs they had to do before they headed back to Nevada. Adam went to put the money in the bank. Joe telegraphed their father of their safe arrival and successful sale. Hoss went to check out the horses, and arrange for their shoes to be checked before they left next day. After that, they took their dirty trail clothes to a Chinese laundry, and went to buy themselves a change of clothes. Despite Hop Sing\u2019s renowned packing abilities, the only clean (ish) clothes they had were they ones they were wearing, and they weren\u2019t all that clean.<\/span><\/p>\n

Changed, and feeling fresh, they headed to the saloon for a couple of beers. Hoss leant up against the bar, passing the time of day with the barman. Joe and Adam sat at a table, and were soon joined by a couple of saloon girls. The girls were pretty, and the Cartwrights willingly bought them drinks.<\/span><\/p>\n

So the time ambled away, and the saloon became busier. Hoss joined his brothers and they sat making idle conversation. It was obvious a card game was in progress in the back room, but none of the Cartwrights was drawn to it. Joe was notoriously the worst poker player in the family, Hoss had no real interest, and Adam liked to keep his money where it was \u2013 in his pocket.<\/span><\/p>\n

But the noise level grew and grew, with cheers and shouts. Joe was the first one to be attracted by the growing clamour. \u201cLet\u2019s go have a look,\u201d he suggested, and rose from his chair. Adam rolled his eyes at Hoss, but got up, too. There was always potential for a fight at a card game, and Joe was always up for a fight. The last thing Adam wanted was Joe spending the night in the cells.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was quite a crowd around the card table, and the room was thick with smoke. Joe was having problems finding somewhere to stand, so that he could see. Adam, with the height advantage, steered Joe around the edge of the crowd, to where there was a space. He kept his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder, partly out of affection, and partly to keep control of him, should things get out of hand. He felt Hoss standing behind them.<\/span><\/p>\n

The card table was stacked high with money. A couple of the players were sitting back, with their arms folded, obviously out of this hand. Three others were still playing, and Adam drew in his breath when he recognised one of them. It was Clay Stafford, Joe\u2019s half brother!<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was obvious that Clay had been winning heavily, judging by the pile of money in front of him. Adam was concerned. Clay didn\u2019t have a great reputation at cards. Twice that Adam knew of, he\u2019d been accused of cheating, and both times had had to kill his opponent. It had happened in Virginia City, and the miners, whose mate had been killed, took their anger out on Joe, and beat him up. Clay had left that very night, and none of the brothers had seen him since. Joe had been very cut up about it, and hadn\u2019t mentioned Clay\u2019s name again. Adam couldn\u2019t even remember how many years ago it had been.<\/span><\/p>\n

Turning to Hoss, Adam tried to catch his brother\u2019s attention, but failed. He tightened his grip on Joe\u2019s shoulder, hoping that the younger man would look at him, but Joe was too caught up in watching the pile of money grow. He hadn\u2019t as yet looked at the players.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Adam said loudly, and Joe finally looked round.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Joe\u2019s attention was still half on the game, and he was turning back without waiting to see what Adam wanted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Whirling Joe round with unnecessary force, Adam shook him. \u201cJoe, let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment, there was no reaction, then Joe shook his head. He looked back at the players at the same moment that Clay looked up. Though not looking at directly at Joe, his brother stared at him, disbelieving. He eyed the card sharp closely. Clay didn\u2019t look much different. He was older, and his face was more lined, but he still had the neat little moustache, and was as slim as Joe. Joe\u2019s heart swelled. Clay had hurt him badly when he left, but Joe had never given up hope that this little known brother of his would return one day to the Ponderosa. \u201cClay!\u201d The word barely reached Adam\u2019s ears.<\/span><\/p>\n

Oblivious, as usual, to the tension in both his brothers, Hoss was also staring at Clay, and belatedly realised who he was. He glanced at Joe and Adam, and saw what he expected. Joe\u2019s feelings were clear for all to see. Adam was as poker faced as usual, but Hoss knew that he was watching Joe, ready to step in and protect him if need be. Hoss sidled closer. \u201cIs that who I think it is?\u201d he asked Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh-huh,\u201d Adam replied tersely.<\/span><\/p>\n

Half starting to smile, for they had all liked Clay, Hoss realised that neither brother was smiling, or even looking pleased to find Clay. The only person who knew what had passed between Joe and Clay that last night was their father, and he had kept Joe\u2019s confidences to himself. But Hoss knew that Adam hadn\u2019t forgiven Clay for hurting Joe so much. Joe had taken a beating for Clay, and although Adam understood why Clay hadn\u2019t stayed around, he had expected him to wait until Joe was better.<\/span><\/p>\n

The card game was over, and Clay was lifting the pile of money from the table. He had a cigar clenched between his teeth, and his eyes stayed on his opponents, until he was sure there was going to be no trouble. When he did finally look away, he became aware of someone standing looking at him. Lifting his eyes, half expecting trouble, he stared disbelievingly at his younger, half brother. \u201cJoe?\u201d he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

For Clay, it was like being hit in the stomach. He had often thought of Joe. He thought of him every time he looked at the picture of their mother that Joe had given him. He had wondered what he would say if they ever met again. It had hurt Clay, leaving Joe like that, but he hadn\u2019t wanted to be burdened with Joe\u2019s emotional dependence, like Adam and Hoss were. Life had been too hard for Clay to understand that it wasn\u2019t a burden for Joe\u2019s other brothers. He just knew that he couldn\u2019t live up to Joe\u2019s expectations, and so had left.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay took a step towards Joe, feeling heat flushing his face. \u201cJoe,\u201d he said again, and a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

As though freed by Clay\u2019s movement, Joe took a step closer; then another and another, till he and Clay stood close enough to touch. They looked at each other as if over a vast distance, then Joe took the final step and he and Clay were hugging.<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing watching, Hoss turned to Adam with a smile on his face. But Adam\u2019s face was closed and expressionless. Hoss\u2019s genial smile faded to a frown, and he touched Adam\u2019s shoulder. After a second, Adam looked at Hoss, and something glittered in his eyes, and then was gone, so quickly that Hoss wasn\u2019t sure what he\u2019d seen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam. Hoss.\u201d Clay released Joe, and stepped towards them, offering his hand. After a pause, Adam clasped it. Hoss, in his turn, pumped Clay\u2019s hand enthusiastically. \u201cHow are you all?\u201d Clay asked. \u201cHow\u2019s your father?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s fine, thank you,\u201d Adam said, curtly. Joe shot him a look, which Adam pretended not to see.<\/span><\/p>\n

Not at all disconcerted by Adam\u2019s rudeness, Clay draped his arm round Joe\u2019s shoulder. \u201cWhat are you doing here?\u201d he asked<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe just sold our herd,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cWhat are\u00a0you<\/em>\u00a0doing here? How long have you been here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCattle, of course,\u201d Clay nodded, smiling at Joe\u2019s enthusiasm. \u201cI\u2019ve been here for a couple of days. I\u2019m staying at the hotel across the street.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo you haven\u2019t settled anywhere?\u201d Hoss asked, eyeing Adam with growing unease. It wasn\u2019t like Adam to be quite as quiet as this.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Clay responded. \u201cI don\u2019t expect to be here longer than another day or so.\u201d He glanced back at the card table, with an expression that Joe couldn\u2019t fathom. \u201cThis is how I make my living.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Following his brother\u2019s gaze, Joe looked troubled. \u201cIs that why you don\u2019t stay anyplace for long?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay shrugged. \u201cPartly. Once you get known in a place, its hard to get anyone to play with you.\u201d Clay tipped his hat back slightly. \u201cLet\u2019s get a drink.\u201d He led the way over to the bar.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sitting together at a table, it was soon obvious that Adam hadn\u2019t forgiven Clay for hurting Joe. The oldest Cartwright was silent, ignoring all attempts to include him in the conversation, yet he wouldn\u2019t leave.<\/span><\/p>\n

His attitude made an awkward occasion even stickier. Joe and Clay caught up as best they could, but there was constraint between them. Joe felt he had done very little in the intervening years, although he was in charge of the horses at the Ponderosa. It all seemed very mundane, compared to the exciting life his brother appeared to live. Clay, on the other hand, was reluctant to say too much about his doings. He had been run out of several towns, and had been forced to kill a number of men. The slip gun, which Hoss had admired all those years ago, had saved his life several times. It wasn\u2019t a past he was particularly proud of.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was, typically, Hoss, who moved to dispel the tension. \u201cHow about we get some chow?\u201d he proposed. \u201cI could eat a horse!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both Clay and Joe reacted with enthusiasm, and Adam simply followed them to the restaurant. His bad manners had him uncomfortable; he had been brought up to know better. But he just couldn\u2019t find it in himself to be polite. He choked down his food anyhow, and was later unable to remember what they had eaten. It all tasted like sawdust to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do you head back?\u201d Clay asked, over coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTomorrow,\u201d Adam said, the only word he\u2019d managed all evening.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cToo bad,\u201d Clay said, casually, determined not to be driven away by Adam\u2019s hostility.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you come back with us?\u201d Joe said. He glanced round at his three brothers, and accurately read each expression. Hoss pleased, Adam against it, and Clay uncertain. \u201cWhy not?\u201d he added, rushing on before anyone could speak. \u201cPa would make you welcome, Clay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe surely would,\u201d Hoss assured him, acting to support Joe, since Adam appeared to have abdicated from the family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell,\u201d Clay began, clearly surprised by the offer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, Clay,\u201d Joe begged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re leaving in the morning,\u201d Adam said. \u201cYou can let us know then.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Shooting Adam a searching look, Clay nodded slowly. \u201cI\u2019ll think about it, he said, knowing that Adam wanted him to say no, but not knowing what he wanted himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The only one of the brothers, Clay included, to get a good night\u2019s sleep was Hoss. Joe was on edge, hoping against hope that Clay would come back to the Ponderosa. He knew that if Clay said he was staying, he would stay, too. He knew, too, that Adam would be unhappy if he did. Joe was perplexed by Adam\u2019s behaviour, but didn\u2019t know what to do about it.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the next room, Adam was wrestling with an unfamiliar demon of his own \u2013 jealousy. The offer Joe had made to Clay was typical Joe, all impulse and no thought behind it. He had no doubt that Ben would make Clay welcome, not just for Joe\u2019s sake, but also for Marie\u2019s sake. Adam wasn\u2019t sure he could follow his father\u2019s example.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ever since Joe was born, Adam had looked out for him. He\u2019d helped Joe through the dark days after his mother\u2019s tragic death, had helped him with his schoolwork, taught him to ride, nursed him through illness and injury. He knew every side of Joe. Now, though he knew it wasn\u2019t worthy of him, he feared the loss of his privileged status as Joe\u2019s oldest brother. He and Clay were much of an age, and Adam hated the thought of Joe turning to Clay, not to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

All that long night, Adam paced the floor. He knew, deep in his heart, that Joe would always love him, whether Clay was around or not. But there were times when Joe could be easily influenced, and Adam didn\u2019t want Joe following Clay into a shady, dangerous life. Knowing Joe\u2019s stubbornness, a wrong word at the wrong time could push him into doing just that.<\/span><\/p>\n

And Clay? He sat staring into the darkness, his hand clutched tightly around the picture of Marie that Joe had given him at their last meeting. His feelings were hopelessly mixed. He liked Joe\u00a0 – maybe even loved him \u2013 and liked the rest of the family, too. But he wasn\u2019t sure he wanted to go back to the Ponderosa. That kind of life wasn\u2019t for him any more, if it ever had been. If he did go, it would only be for a while. But would Joe understand that it wasn\u2019t forever?<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The Cartwrights were eating a mostly silent breakfast the next morning when Clay appeared. He hesitated in the doorway for a second before crossing to their table and sitting down. \u201cI\u2019ll come,\u201d he said, without any preamble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face split into a wide grin, and he clapped Clay on the shoulder. \u201cAll right!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

They left a little over an hour later. Clay seemed as anxious to leave as Adam. Joe, restored to his usual high spirits, chattered away to Clay like a child. Hoss watched Adam closely, but his brother seemed to be his normal, calm, controlled self.<\/span><\/p>\n

The raw-boned bay gelding which Clay rode wasn\u2019t as fit as Sport, Chubb and Cochise, and the Cartwrights had to slow their usual pace to accommodate it. So it was, that they were caught up on the trail by a group of five men.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

When Clay first saw the men behind them, he paled. Adam, seeing him look over his shoulder for the dozenth time, followed his gaze, and spotted the men behind them. \u201cWho are they, Clay?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Adam,\u201d Clay replied. \u201cBut I\u2019m always wary of someone behind me.\u201d He gave a cynical smile. \u201cWouldn\u2019t you be, in my line of work?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo doubt,\u201d Adam said, dryly. \u201cWell, no reason to panic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The other riders drew closer and closer. Adam pulled Sport off the trail, turning him, so that he was facing the on-coming riders, but leaving room for them to pass. The others followed his example. The riders nodded and passed by.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s eat,\u201d Adam proposed, to allow the men time to get further ahead of them, and swung down from the saddle.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

They saw no one else all that day. As dusk drew down, they made camp, and Hoss made the meal while the others tended to the horses. They settled comfortably around the fire, glad for the warmth, for the night wind had a chill edge.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho were those men, Clay?\u201d Adam asked, as they ate the bacon and beans Hoss had made.<\/span><\/p>\n

For a second, Clay\u2019s spoon hesitated on the way to his mouth, then he smoothly finished the action, giving himself a few more seconds before he had to respond.<\/span><\/p>\n

But Joe jumped into the breach. \u201cWhat makes you think Clay knows them?\u201d he demanded, hotly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cInstinct,\u201d Adam answered, his cool, level gaze fixed on Clay.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know for sure,\u201d Clay said, slowly, over-riding Joe\u2019s further protests. \u201cBut about a month ago, I left San Francisco under a cloud. I expect that Cromwell has sent men after me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you owe him money?\u201d Adam asked, drawing another furious glare from Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay took another bite of his meal, keeping his gaze on Adam, wondering how much to admit to. He finally decided to tell the truth. \u201cNot exactly,\u201d he admitted. \u201cI killed his son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The response Clay\u2019s casual announcement received was all he hoped for. Adam\u2019s black brows drew down, Hoss\u2019s genial face was dark, and Joe\u2019s mouth hung open, all his protective bluster gone. Clay smiled slightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIts not as bad as it sounds,\u201d he said, and told them the story. Clay had taken Cromwell Junior for quite a bit of money. There had been no question of cheating, but Cromwell had been furious at losing so much money. As Clay left the saloon later that evening, Cromwell had jumped him. After a fistfight, Cromwell drew his gun. Clay had no choice but to shoot him. It hadn\u2019t appeared to be a serious wound, but Cromwell had a bad heart, and died of his injuries later that night. There had been plenty of witnesses, and Clay had been cleared of any charges, but he thought it prudent to clear out of \u2018Frisco as soon as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo,\u201d he concluded, \u201cI wouldn\u2019t be surprised if there was someone after me, but I don\u2019t know for sure. I don\u2019t stay in one place for very long.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking around uneasily, Hoss put his hand on his rifle. \u201cIs that why you decided to come with us?\u201d he asked, in an unhappy tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPartly,\u201d Clay admitted. \u201cBut mostly because I wanted to spend some time with you.\u201d He tried a smile at Joe, who was too troubled to respond.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, at least you\u2019re being honest,\u201d Adam allowed. \u201cJoe, its your turn to wash up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d Joe protested, but shortly found himself at the stream washing up.<\/span><\/p>\n

While he was so occupied, Adam crossed to Clay\u2019s side. \u201cIf harm comes to Joe because of you,\u201d Adam warned quietly, \u201cyou\u2019ll be sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay didn\u2019t look away. \u201cWhy should harm come to Joe?\u201d he countered. \u201cIts me they want.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf they find out that Joe is your brother, they may well try and hurt him,\u201d Adam said. \u201cThey would assume that would hurt you. Would it?\u201d he added, pointedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it would,\u201d Clay protested. Then he subsided slightly. \u201cBut I don\u2019t know for sure that anyone is after me,\u201d he said, unable to refute what Adam\u2019s point. Then the defiance returned. \u201cAnyway, Joe\u2019s old enough to look after himself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The scornful look Adam gave Clay spoke volumes. No one knew better than Adam that Joe could look after himself. And no one knew better than Adam that Joe attracted trouble like flowers attracted bees. \u201cI\u2019ll take the first watch,\u201d Adam said, rising. \u201cI\u2019ll wake you next.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The night passed uneventfully. Joe, yawning, brewed the coffee and roused his brothers. They didn\u2019t talk much over breakfast, and were soon on the trail again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Despite Adam\u2019s vigilance, the ambush caught them almost unawares. At the last moment, they saw movement in the rocks beside the trail ahead, but it was too late to make a run for it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pulling his gun, Adam opened fire. Clay and Joe swiftly copied him. They urged their horses into a gallop, and ducked to try and avoid the bullets flying round their ears.<\/span><\/p>\n

It seemed to take forever until they broke out into more open country. Miraculously, they had all escaped unscathed. They galloped on, but Clay\u2019s gelding was already labouring, and when Clay was forced to slow, Joe slowed Cochise and turned back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Behind them, the bushwhackers were mounted, and pursuing them. \u201cGo on, Joe!\u201d Clay shouted. \u201cIts me they want! Go on!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay flung himself from his horse, and slapped its rump. He threw himself down behind a few rocks, which offered some meagre cover. Joe followed suit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Belatedly, Hoss and Adam realised what was happening. They rode back and took what shelter they could.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a straight shooting match. Joe, who was deadly accurate with his gun, picked off one. Adam and Clay each got another. Popping his head up for another shot, Joe was just in time to get a faceful of rock splinters, as a bullet gouged a chunk off the top of the boulder in front of him. He instinctively shielded his face with his arm, even though it was too late, but he didn\u2019t duck back down.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lifting his head, Hoss saw Joe\u2019s danger and picked off the man aiming at his little brother. It was a perfect shot. Clay, meanwhile, hauled Joe back into cover.<\/span><\/p>\n

Out numbered, their last opponent discovered that discretion was the better part of valour, and turned tail and fled. Disgusted with the killing, Adam got to his feet and hurried across to Joe, Hoss on his heels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right, Joe?\u201d he asked, anxiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe squinted up at him, his face flecked with blood. \u201cYes, I\u2019m okay,\u201d he assured them. \u201cIt just stings a bit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Kneeling next to Joe, Adam grasped both Joe\u2019s arms. \u201cDon\u2019t rub your face,\u201d he warned. \u201cIts covered in rock fragments. Hoss, can you get me a canteen?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking round, with no horses in sight, Hoss gave a piercing whistle. Within a few moments, the Ponderosa horses all appeared, with Clay\u2019s bay tagging along behind. Hoss went to catch them, and gave Adam one of the canteens.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Adam gently cleaned Joe\u2019s face, Hoss and Clay checked the bodies. \u201cAll dead,\u201d Hoss reported, when they came back. He looked at Joe. \u201cHow\u2019re you doin\u2019, Shortshanks?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, Hoss,\u201d Joe assured him, irritably, although his face was quite sore. He could feel the skin starting to tighten with bruises. Hoss just nodded, knowing Joe would say he was fine on his deathbed, most likely.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get going,\u201d Adam said. He hooked Joe with an \u2018older brother\u2019 look. \u201cDon\u2019t poke at your face,\u201d he warned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t, Adam,\u201d Joe said, in a long-suffering tone. \u201cI\u2019m not a child!\u201d He mounted Cochise in one fluid leap and fought down the hand, which threatened to rise to rub his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

They kept watch again on their second night on the trail, but all was quiet. It was a grey, cool morning; a reminder that fall was on its way. They passed through a small town early in the afternoon, but they didn\u2019t stop. As dusk fell, they made camp in a sheltered spot at the foot of a rocky outcropping. Adam estimated that they would have at least one more night on the trail before they reached home.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The second attack came as dawn broke. Hoss was on watch, and barely had time to rouse the others before the first shot was fired. They scrambled for cover, and peeped warily out to see what was happening.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStafford! Mr Cromwell wants to talk to you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Exchanging glances with the others Clay eased himself closer to his adversaries. \u201cI said all I had to say to Cromwell,\u201d he called back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe only wants you, Stafford,\u201d the man shouted. \u201cWe\u2019re not interested in these others.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Nudging Adam, Joe whispered, \u201cI\u2019ll go round and flank them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay where you are!\u201d Adam ordered, also in a whisper.<\/span><\/p>\n

But Joe was already moving. Adam cursed under his breath. Joe was ideally suited to the flanking manoeuvre, being light on his feet, and quick. Adam had a bad feeling about this set up, and would have preferred to have everyone under his watchful eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

Resolutely, Adam set off after Joe, signalling to Hoss to back up Clay. As he slithered through the rocks, he caught a glimpse of Joe\u2019s green jacket ahead of him. Almost at the same instant, he spotted movement from above Joe, and he glanced up in time to see a man aiming a gun at his brother. \u201cJoe!\u201d Adam yelled, too late.<\/span><\/p>\n

A shot was fired, and Joe tumbled to the ground, more exposed than before. Adam opened fire, and got the man who\u2019d shot Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

From all around, it seemed, there came gunfire. Adam ignored it, scrambling to Joe\u2019s side. There was blood on Joe\u2019s jacket, but the bullet had gone clean through his shoulder. Joe was struggling to get to his feet. Adam pushed him back down, covering him with his own body.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam helped Joe, he became aware that the firing had stopped. He looked round as Hoss yelled, \u201dAdam! Joe! Where are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere!\u201d Adam called. He looked up as Hoss and Clay came into sight. \u201cAre you all right?\u201d Adam asked, but the question was aimed mainly at Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re fine,\u201d Hoss assured him. \u201cHow\u2019s Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay,\u201d Joe protested, but he was very pale, and his voice wasn\u2019t quite as strong as usual.<\/span><\/p>\n

Working together, Adam, Hoss and Clay took Joe back to their camp, where Adam sacrificed a shirt to make bandages. Luckily, it was Joe\u2019s right shoulder, so he was at least able to do a lot of things for himself. Joe rested while the others packed up their camp, and got the horses ready.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was well into the morning before they got underway. The bodies were just left lying. This time, there was no one alive to gather reinforcements.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Three days later, they reached the Ponderosa. They were several days overdue, mostly due to Joe\u2019s weakened condition. Joe had kept pace well with the others, but Adam had stopped often, knowing that Joe would push himself too far, just to keep up. Ben appeared at the door of the house when he heard the hooves, a smile of pure relief lighting up his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment, he didn\u2019t recognise Clay, but his surprised greeting died as Joe\u2019s condition impinged on his consciousness. Without being aware of how he got there, Ben was at Joe\u2019s side, as his youngest son gave him a shaky grin from a white face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d he asked, as he helped Joe get down from Cochise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, Pa,\u201d Joe said, impatiently, and untruthfully. To deflect his father\u2019s attention he said, \u201dLook, Pa, we found Clay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Still supporting Joe, Ben turned to smile at Clay. His arrival in their midst a few years before had come as a shock to them all. Ben had known that Marie, his third wife, had been married before, and had had a child. But Marie had believed her child was dead, but Clay had proved that he was Marie\u2019s child, and still very much alive. \u201cWelcome home, Clay,\u201d Ben said, and earned a sunlit smile from Joe, who couldn\u2019t resist an \u2018I told you so\u2019 look at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It didn\u2019t escape Ben\u2019s notice that Adam was ignoring Clay. All through that evening, as Ben was told the story of their time away, and as Dr. Paul Martin treated Joe\u2019s injured shoulder, Adam spoke and acted almost normally. But he behaved as if Clay wasn\u2019t there. He didn\u2019t interrupt Clay when he was talking, he just didn\u2019t react to anything that Clay said. Ben was unable to get a chance to speak to Adam alone, so wasn\u2019t able to solve the mystery of Adam\u2019s odd behaviour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow is Joe, Doc?\u201d Clay asked, as Ben and Paul came downstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Casting a glance at Ben, Paul said, \u201cHe\u2019s fine. The wound is clean and already healing. You did exactly the right things, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Paul,\u201d Adam said, casually. He rose. \u201cWell, good night.\u201d Without pausing, Adam headed upstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Perplexed, Ben could only watch Adam, go. He took care of his guests automatically, showing Clay to his room, and giving Paul a drink before he left. Hoss, too, went early to bed. Ben couldn\u2019t imagine what was bothering Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was to prove frustrating to Ben for a while. Adam continued to behave as if Clay were either there accidentally, or not at all. Ben\u2019s gentle probing got him nowhere. Adam acted as though he had no idea what his father was talking about.<\/span><\/p>\n

Meanwhile, despite Adam\u2019s hostility, Clay settled into the routine of the ranch, as though he\u2019d never been gone. He worked hard, without being asked, and was unfailingly cheerful. He kept out of town altogether. He seemed determined to show that he could behave himself, and that trouble didn\u2019t always follow him, as he had told Ben it did, on his last stay.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s shoulder healed quickly, and he was soon back at work. Clay seemed to enjoy watching Joe busting broncos, and was often found at the corral. However, he refused all offers to try bronco busting himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the surface, everything appeared normal. But Ben was aware of the undercurrents swirling around. When the mail was collected, Clay seemed tense, but when there was nothing for him, he gradually relaxed again. When Ben asked if he was expecting mail, Clay just said no. Joe asked, too, but Clay deflected his curiosity with laughter. Adam remained tight-lipped over what was wrong between he and Clay, and Hoss, usually the confidante of both his brothers, couldn\u2019t tell Ben what was wrong.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019m going to collect the mail and supplies,\u201d Joe said to Clay, as he hitched the team to the buckboard. \u201cWant to come?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay hesitated. \u201cYeah, okay, but no card games,\u201d he grinned. He hopped up onto the seat, and Joe started the team.<\/span><\/p>\n

Virginia City had grown since Clay had last seen it, but he recognised Sheriff Roy Coffee, who came over to greet them. Joe introduced them, but Roy\u2019s memory was as good as Clay\u2019s, and he recalled him straight away. \u201cNo trouble this time?\u201d he suggested, in a light tone, but neither Joe nor Clay doubted that they\u2019d been given a warning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Sheriff, no trouble,\u201d Clay promised. \u201cI have no intention of going near a card table.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

They loaded the supplies quickly and Joe went to collect the mail. Clay leant against the buckboard and watched the world go by. He didn\u2019t recognise any faces, for which he was truly grateful. He looked relaxed, but was actually whipcord taut.<\/span><\/p>\n

It had been over a month since he had come back to the Ponderosa, and he was bored to death. It was time to move on, but Clay didn\u2019t know how to tell Joe. He had become very fond of his little brother \u2013 it was difficult not to like Joe \u2013 and he liked the rest of the family well enough. But it wasn\u2019t his kind of life. He needed more excitement. Joe got his excitement risking his life on bucking broncos. Clay got his from risking his life against other human beings.<\/span><\/p>\n

The other thing that concerned Clay was if Cromwell was still looking for him. The prospect of looking over his shoulder for the rest of his life was depressing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPenny for \u2018em,\u201d Joe said, startling Clay, who hadn\u2019t seen him coming. \u201cHere, there\u2019s a letter for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe?\u201d Clay said, and took it reluctantly. He gazed at the handwriting, as Joe continued to leaf through the rest of the mail.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think it\u2019ll bite,\u201d Joe said, grinning, noticing Clay staring at the letter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Oh, no.\u201d Clay opened the letter slowly, and tried to keep his face impassive as he read the bad news. The letter was from his lawyer in New Orleans, whom he had cabled before leaving Sacramento. It warned Clay that Cromwell had checked the records in City Hall, and had found out about the Ponderosa. Cromwell was almost certainly heading that way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cClay? Clay, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d Joe was staring at Clay with concern. His brother had gone pale.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dragging his eyes from the letter, Clay focused with difficulty on Joe\u2019s face. \u201cJust \u2013 well, let\u2019s say its not the best news I ever had. I\u2019m all right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get a beer,\u201d Joe suggested, and led the way to the Bucket of Blood saloon.<\/span><\/p>\n

The saloon was quiet that early in the afternoon, but Clay found it impossible to relax. He made an effort to behave normally, but Joe was very sensitive to other\u2019s emotions, and knew that something was badly wrong. However, he was also sensitive enough not to probe too hard.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they travelled home, Clay had to work hard to sit still. They were no signs of anyone on the road, but Clay\u2019s hand never strayed very far from his gun.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aware of Clay\u2019s tension, Joe racked his brains to think of a way to persuade Clay to open up to him. He couldn\u2019t \u2013 chiefly because he himself hated to be pushed into confidences when he wasn\u2019t ready to share. Every day, Joe feared he would waken and find Clay gone. He knew that ranch life wasn\u2019t for Clay, and he knew, too, that Clay\u2019s nomadic wandering wouldn\u2019t suit him. But he loved Clay, as he loved Adam and Hoss, and the thought of Clay leaving caused him pain. It was all the more painful, because he couldn\u2019t tell anyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

The days sped past, as the Ponderosa made its preparations for winter. Clay stayed on, accepting the wages that Ben paid him, fitting more easily into the family unit. Each day, Clay told himself he would leave, and each day, he stayed on. Adam\u2019s hostility hadn\u2019t lessened, but they had come to an armed neutrality, which passed for peace under a casual glance.<\/span><\/p>\n

When there was an early snow flurry, everyone set off to bring the last of the cattle in from the high pastures. It was to be a job that lasted for a couple of days, including an overnight stop. The Cartwright boys separated, Adam and Hoss keeping the herd going, and Joe scouting off looking for strays.<\/span><\/p>\n

Darkness fell, and Joe made his camp for the night, and began to prepare a meal. He was disgusted at the thought of eating his own cooking, but consoled himself that it was only for one night. Tomorrow, he would be back eating Hop Sing\u2019s fabulous food. He heard a horse approaching, and a voice called \u201cHey, Joe! Any room at the fire?\u201d It was Clay.<\/span><\/p>\n

They made desultory conversation, mostly about the strays they had found. Clay cracked a joke about Joe\u2019s dreadful cooking, and Joe threatened to cook Clay. After they had eaten, they tidied up the camp, such as it was, and settled for the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

The early snow wasn\u2019t lying, but there was a decided chill in the air. The brothers snuggled down under their bedrolls, sleepy after their long day. Then Joe sat up. \u201cDo you hear that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Clay asked, then nodded. \u201cHorses!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

They swiftly slipped on their boots and began to strap on their holsters. A shot erupted out of the darkness, and pinged off the ground by Joe\u2019s feet. \u201cDrop the guns!\u201d a voice ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Exchanging glances, Joe and Clay realised that they had no choice. They couldn\u2019t see more than indistinct dark shapes beyond the firelight. Slowly, they unbuckled their gunbelts and let them fall to the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

Eight horses appeared out of the darkness, and the riders dismounted. Clay stiffened. Joe shot him a glance, but Clay\u2019s attention was fixed on an older man, seemingly the leader of the band. Joe wondered what they wanted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStafford,\u201d the man said, and there was hatred in his voice. Joe\u2019s unease grew.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr Cromwell,\u201d Clay returned. Joe\u2019s gaze sharpened on him, remembering that Clay had killed this man\u2019s son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIts taken a while to find you,\u201d Cromwell said, conversationally. A shiver ran up Joe\u2019s spine at the tone. \u201cBut I knew I\u2019d catch up with you eventually.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Mr Cromwell, I was cleared of killing your son. It was self defence.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not interested in what a court said,\u201d Cromwell snarled. \u201cYou murdered my son, and I\u2019m going to make you pay!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Surrounded by Cromwell\u2019s men, Joe couldn\u2019t see how they would get out of this alive. He kept silent, having caught Clay\u2019s warning glance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour quarrel is with me,\u201d Clay said. \u201cLet him go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay couldn\u2019t have said anything that was more designed to inflame Joe\u2019s temper. He opened his mouth to protest that he wasn\u2019t going anywhere, but Cromwell beat him to it. \u201cGood try, but I want your brother here.\u201d Cromwell nodded, and two men grabbed Joe\u2019s arms and twisted them painfully up his back. \u201cDid you think I didn\u2019t know about him?\u201d Cromwell continued. \u201cI knew it was him just by looking. There is a resemblance, you know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a scenario that Clay had dreaded since he\u2019d discovered that Cromwell knew where he was. For all his boredom with the repetitive chores, Clay had enjoyed being part of a loving family. He had always planned to move on, but had been unable to tear himself away. Because Clay had been unable to make the move from the Ponderosa, Joe was in danger. Clay regretted it with all his might.<\/span><\/p>\n

Two more of Cromwell\u2019s men grabbed Clay, and he was forced to watch as yet another man began to punch Joe, over and over. Clay struggled uselessly against the grip on his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEnough.\u201d Cromwell had been watching Clay\u2019s face, revelling in his distress. Now, he turned his interested gaze on Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

At Cromwell\u2019s nod, the men released Joe\u2019s arms, and he fell to his knees, bleeding from various places on his face, and doubled over from the pain in his chest and stomach. He tried to bring his arms round to cradle his sore ribs, but was unable to do it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCromwell, you bastard!\u201d Clay was panting, his eyes fixed on Joe, Adam\u2019s warning ringing in his ears \u2013\u00a0if<\/em>\u00a0harm comes to Joe, you\u2019ll be sorry<\/em>. This wasn\u2019t what Adam had meant, Clay knew, but he was definitely sorry.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As dawn broke, Adam tightened his cinch and swung into his saddle. Hoss was already mounted. He had no real idea why Adam was so concerned about Joe, but he was willing to go along with his older brother. They didn\u2019t expect Joe back until later on that day, but Adam had wakened Hoss early, and insisted that Joe was in trouble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s intuition was proven correct shortly after they set off, when Cochise, wearing only a halter, came into view. He came to Adam\u2019s call without hesitation. There was no sign of injury, and Cochise wasn\u2019t lathered. Nor was he the kind of horse that would run away. He would follow Joe without benefit of a lead rope. Adam slipped the end of his lariat into the halter, and took Cochise along with them. Hoss immediately began to follow Cochise\u2019s tracks.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As the night wore on, Cromwell tormented Joe and Clay over and over. The beatings were no longer confined to Joe, although he had borne the brunt of them. As the sky began to lighten, Cromwell\u2019s men let the horses loose. Joe was no longer able to stand. Blood flecked his lips, and his breath came in painful groans. His left eye was swollen shut, and the right eye was following swiftly behind. He knew that he had broken ribs, and his hands were uselessly painful due to severe swelling in both wrists. Joe lay on his right side, and knew that time was running out for them both.<\/span><\/p>\n

Nearby, Clay was thinking the same thing. He, too, was in bad shape, with broken ribs, a broken nose, and a couple of broken fingers. His face was lumpy with swelling and bruising. His thinking was clouded with pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

So it took him a second or so to see that Cromwell had drawn his gun and was aiming at Joe. Clay heard the\u00a0click<\/em>\u00a0as the hammer drew back, and he threw his abused body in front of his helpless brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

The bullets bit into Clay so fast that his body couldn\u2019t process the pain. He was aware of being pushed back by the force of the bullets entering his body, and he heard a voice calling out in pain. A great regret seized Clay; regret that his life hadn\u2019t amounted to more than this, and regret that Joe had suffered for a sin not his own. Then Clay knew no more.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Thundering towards the echoing gunshots, both Adam and Hoss knew they were too late. Further up the valley, they saw a number of riders galloping off. Neither spared much time for them, beyond checking they were actually leaving. Pulling up their horses, they ran towards the bloodstained bodies on the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay lay on top of Joe, and blood poured out from five bullet wounds in his chest. Adam felt for a pulse, sure it was hopeless, but he felt a faint thready beat under his fingers. \u201cHelp me lift him off Joe,\u201d Adam said, and together they lifted the injured man. His eyelids fluttered open.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d breathed Clay. \u201cSorry. Didn\u2019t\u2026mean\u2026.it\u2026..to\u2026.happen. Sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Swallowing against the tightness in his throat, Adam tried to speak, but Hoss was closing the sightless eyes, and Adam knew that Clay was gone. It was too soon for Adam to forgive Clay, despite the evidence that Clay had protected Joe with his own body. But Adam had no time to think further about Clay, as Joe needed him.<\/span><\/p>\n

For a horrible moment, they thought Joe had followed Clay into the next life. But then Adam found his pulse, and he looked at Hoss with tears in his eyes. \u201cJoe\u2019s alive. We\u2019d better make a travois to take him home. Its quicker to head for the house from here, than take him to town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make \u2018em,\u201d Hoss said. \u201cYou look after Joe.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Kneeling beside Joe, Adam looked him over, checking out the injuries. He was horrified at the beating Joe had taken, seeing the bruises, feeling the broken ribs, the damage to his wrists, and finally finding the bullet hole in the thigh, just above the knee. He gently tucked Joe\u2019s bedroll round him, then added Clay\u2019s, too, as Joe felt cold to the touch. The bullet wound hadn\u2019t bled much, but the slug was still in there.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Joe warmed up, he began to come around. \u201cPa?\u201d he whispered. Adam touched his cheek gently, wishing that their father were there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Joe, its Adam,\u201d he said, as steadily as he could.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Joe\u2019s voice could hardly be heard. \u201cWhere\u2019s Clay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cClay\u2019s right here,\u201d Adam said, unable to tell Joe that Clay had died. He suddenly realised that he hadn\u2019t been angry with Clay for a while, for he\u2019d had enough sense to see that Joe treated him just the same way as he had always done. And in that moment, Adam forgave Clay. \u201cJust rest, Joe, we\u2019ll get you home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHome,\u201d Joe muttered. He took a deep breath, and winced. \u201cAdam, I hurt.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, buddy,\u201d Adam said, softly. \u201cI know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It didn\u2019t take Hoss long to make up a couple of travois. Clay\u2019s horse had come back to camp, and Adam soon had it and Cochise saddled up, ready to pull the travois. They put Joe carefully on one, and put Clay\u2019s body on the other.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mounting Sport, Adam took the leads from the other horses and exchanged a concerned look with Hoss. \u201cWill you be all right, Adam?\u201d Hoss worried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m sure I\u2019ll be fine. Anyway, you need to get the doctor.\u201d Adam cast a glance over his shoulder to where Joe lay bundled on the travois. He had drifted in and out of consciousness, and Adam was more concerned than he would admit. \u201cI\u2019ll see you back at the house, Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Briefly, the brothers clasped hands, and then set off on their journeys.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss, Paul Martin and Roy Coffee arrived at the house at almost the same moment as Adam and Joe. There were plenty of willing hands to carry Joe carefully into the house. Hoss took a minute to organise some hands into caring for the horses, and laying Clay\u2019s body out in the spare room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upstairs, Ben and Adam helped Paul to strip off Joe\u2019s bloodstained clothes. Paul was too professional to show his shock at the extent of Joe\u2019s injuries, but Ben couldn\u2019t contain a gasp. There was barely an inch of unbruised skin to be seen. Both of Joe\u2019s eyes had swelled closed and were startlingly bruised. His lip was split and there were several gashes on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Working carefully, Paul bound up the broken ribs, estimating that there were three broken on one side, and four on the other. Joe\u2019s temperature was climbing steadily, and Paul sent Ben for cold cloths for Joe\u2019s head. Both of Joe\u2019s wrists were broken, and Paul knew he would have to set them soon, judging by the swelling. But the thing that required immediate attention was the bullet in Joe\u2019s leg. Its presence in the body was the cause of Joe\u2019s temperature. If it remained there for too long, Joe could develop blood poisoning.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe roused slightly as Ben bathed his head with cool water. \u201cPa?\u201d he said, panic in his voice. \u201cWhy can\u2019t I see?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy, Joe, easy,\u201d Ben soothed. \u201cYour eyes are badly swollen, but you\u2019ll be fine. Just lie still, and let Paul take care of you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Moving fractionally, Joe caught his breath at the pain. \u201cWhere\u2019s Clay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDownstairs,\u201d Ben replied, truthfully. He looked at Paul to see if he should say more, but Paul shook his head. Joe faced an operation to remove the bullet from his leg, and it would be soon enough to tell Joe about his brother\u2019s death after he had survived the operation. \u201cJoe, just rest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Paul said, \u201cI\u2019m going to give you some ether to make you sleep. I must get the bullet out of your leg. You\u2019ll be fine, all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a sigh from Joe, and a slight nod. The talking had worn him out. Paul looked at Ben. \u201cI\u2019m going to need something to make splints from, for both his wrists. I also need any bandages you have. Ask Hop Sing to boil some water to sterilise my instruments.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Ben said. He stroked Joe\u2019s hair, and the young man turned his head slightly towards his father\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, Ben?\u201d Paul added. \u201cI\u2019ll get Roy to help me during the operation. Go downstairs and rest. You\u2019ll have a lot of looking after to do later.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment, Paul thought Ben was going to argue about it, but he saw something in Paul\u2019s face, which persuaded him that Paul was not going to let him help. He nodded, and went downstairs. Adam and Hoss immediately leapt to their feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul\u2019s going to operate,\u201d he reported. \u201cWe need wood for splints, and boiling water. Roy, Paul wants you to help him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d Roy replied, and headed upstairs. Ben went to the kitchen, and soon Hop Sing was bustling about, finding the necessary rags and bandages, and boiling copious quantities of water, muttering in Chinese under his breath the whole time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Meanwhile, Adam told Ben what he knew about what had happened to Joe and Clay. Ben listened in silence, then rose and went to see Clay\u2019s body. He was shocked by the bullet holes, and the marks of the beatings. With tears in his eyes, Ben prayed for Clay\u2019s soul. \u201cMarie,\u201d he whispered, after he had finished, \u201cyou have one of your sons with you now. Help us keep the other one here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The waiting continued. Time seemed to stand still. If they hadn\u2019t been able to hear the ticking of the French clock, they might have thought it had stopped. Hop Sing bustled up and down stairs, avoiding all questions. Hoss made coffee, and they all pretended to drink it, but their minds were fixed on the room above, where Joe battled for his life.<\/span><\/p>\n

After two hours, Paul and Roy finally came down, shoulders slumped in exhaustion. All the Cartwrights were on their feet. With a sigh, Paul sat down. \u201cIt was a tricky operation,\u201d he said. \u201cThe bullet was lodged behind an artery. But we got it out. I\u2019ve set Joe\u2019s wrists. His temperature is quite high. There could be some infection from that bullet. I cleaned out the leg as best I could. We\u2019ll just have to see. Joe is going to be pretty much helpless for quite a long time. I don\u2019t want him out of bed for more than a few minutes at a time. With so many broken ribs, the dangers of a punctured lung are high. Someone will need to be with him at all times.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Paul,\u201d Ben said. \u201cI appreciate all you\u2019ve done for Joe. Thank you, too, Roy.\u201d He turned away and climbed the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was left to Adam to play the host, and make sure Paul and Roy got some coffee and something to eat. Once they were settled, he went up to Joe\u2019s room. Ben was sitting by the bed, watching Joe sleep. His broken, splinted wrists lay on top of the covers, just his fingertips peeking out of the bandages. The swelling was going from his eyes, although the bruising was still strongly coloured. Joe\u2019s face was pale.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Adam whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking up, Ben smiled. \u201cHe opened his eyes slightly,\u201d Ben whispered. \u201cI think he\u2019ll be all right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Closing his eyes, Adam said a prayer of thanksgiving. When he opened his eyes again, he saw Ben smiling lovingly at him, sharing the emotions Adam was feeling. A hand touched Adam\u2019s shoulder, and he wasn\u2019t surprised to see it was Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

So it was, when Joe wakened up briefly a short while later, his family were there, watching him, and lending him strength, with the depth of their love.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was several days before Joe was strong enough to stay awake for long. His temperature had gone up and down, before finally settling. Paul came every day to check on him, and declared that there was no infection from the bullet. Only then, would he allow Ben to tell Joe of Clay\u2019s death.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Joe next wakened, Ben sat gently on the edge of the bed. \u201cHow do you feel, son?\u201d he asked, dreading the moments ahead of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d Joe replied, and gave a small grin. \u201cPa, when can I see Clay?\u201d He had asked about Clay every time he was awake, and they had fobbed him off each time. Joe had been too ill to pursue the matter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Swallowing, Ben put his hand gently on one of Joe\u2019s. \u201cJoe, Clay died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment, Ben\u2019s words had no meaning, then tears drowned Joe\u2019s emerald eyes. \u201cWhen?\u201d he sobbed. \u201cHow?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As gently as he could, Ben told Joe what Adam had told him. \u201cClay saved your life,\u201d he concluded.<\/span><\/p>\n

The sobs that shook Joe were causing him physical pain, but he was unable to control his grief. He had feared that Clay was dead, simply because no one would tell him anything, but with the optimism that came naturally to him, he hadn\u2019t allowed himself to believe it. When his tears finally stopped, Joe was exhausted. He lay quietly as Ben washed his face, washing away the tear tracks, showing his love in the only way he could. Joe was too badly injured for Ben to gather him into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2026 Have\u2026 When\u2026.?\u201d Joe tried to speak, but couldn\u2019t force the words out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe died when Adam found you both,\u201d Ben said, guessing correctly what Joe wanted to know. \u201cWe buried him yesterday, next to your mother.\u201d Ben felt in his vest pocket. \u201cHe was carrying this.\u201d He held up the photo of Marie that Joe had given Clay on his first visit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears filled Joe\u2019s eyes again, but he didn\u2019t have enough strength to cry any more. \u201cHave they caught Cromwell?\u201d he asked, his voice hoarse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCromwell?\u201d Ben asked, sharply. \u201cWho\u2019s Cromwell?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCromwell,\u201d Joe repeated. \u201cThe man who\u2019s son Clay killed in San Francisco. He was the one who did this to us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure, Joe?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a weary sigh, Joe nodded. \u201cClay called him by name,\u201d Joe explained, although his voice was reflecting his tiredness. \u201cCromwell\u2019s men did the beating, and held us down, but Cromwell pulled the trigger himself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rising to his feet, Ben smiled at Joe. \u201cYou rest now, Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ll get Roy Coffee out here, and you can tell him this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Roy Coffee acted with great dispatch after getting Joe\u2019s statement. He sent telegraphs to the whole territory, and within a few hours had had a reply. Cromwell had been caught in a small town on the edge of Nevada territory, and Roy headed off to get him with an arrest warrant and a posse.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cromwell was a powerful man, and tried hard to intimidate Roy, but Roy was standing no nonsense.\u00a0 Cromwell was brought back to Virginia City in chains. The circuit judge arrived the following week. Joe was barely mobile, but he was brought into town in the back of the buckboard the day before he was due to testify, and was able to repeat his story in court.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was telling testimony. Joe was still pale, his wrists in casts, his broken ribs slowly healing, and the fading bruises still evident on his face. Cromwell had made no secret of his desire to kill Clay, and one of his hired hands had given evidence, in return for a lenient sentence. Cromwell was sentenced to hang.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

After the court case, Joe\u2019s recovery continued in fits and starts. His ribs were slow to heal, and the broken wrists reduced Joe to the level of a baby again, as he could do nothing for himself. His temper was short, and he was often on the verge of tears. He was a little concerned, too, as Adam seemed to be uneasy in his presence, avoiding him when possible, and Joe couldn\u2019t figure out why. All in all, it made for a very uncomfortable fall for the Cartwrights.<\/span><\/p>\n

The first true snowfall of the winter found Joe still imprisoned in the house. He spent the morning in his room, and finally made it downstairs after lunch. Adam was working on the books, and he hesitated when he saw Joe appear. \u201cAdam, you must talk to me,\u201d Joe pleaded. \u201cI don\u2019t understand why you\u2019re avoiding me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Getting slowly to his feet, Adam studied Joe, seeing the weight he\u2019d lost, the paleness of his face, the troubled look. \u201cJoe, I don\u2019t know what to say to you,\u201d he admitted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d Joe asked, perplexed. \u201cWhat happened to us was none of your doing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps not,\u201d Adam agreed, \u201cbut I was pretty hard on Clay, for no good reason.\u201d He helped Joe to sit down, then took the seat opposite. \u201cIts very hard to say this, Joe, but I was jealous of Clay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou?\u201d Joe blurted. \u201cBut why?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Avoiding Joe\u2019s eyes, Adam looked inside himself. \u201cYou were so pleased to see him, and I was afraid that you would want to go off after him, like you did the last time. And I was scared that something bad would happen because of Clay. I thought that Clay was only playing at being your brother, and that he would hurt you again.\u201d Adam lifted his eyes, and met Joe\u2019s gaze. \u201cI was scared that you would prefer him to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d Joe began, bewildered. \u201cHow could you think that? You\u2019re my brother; I\u2019ll always love you. Just like I\u2019ll always love Hoss. I don\u2019t understand how you could have thought that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand it myself,\u201d Adam admitted. \u201cBut I did feel it. I\u2019m sorry. I just wish I could tell Clay that, too.\u201d Tiredly, Adam rubbed the bridge of his nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, because Joe still hadn\u2019t thought it through entirely, he said, \u201cAdam, I loved Clay. But I always knew that he wouldn\u2019t stay here. I guess I couldn\u2019t believe it when he showed no signs of wanting to leave. I suppose I did spend more time with him than with you. But, you see,\u201d Joe had to pause to clear his throat. \u201cI knew that you would never go away, and not get in touch. I knew that if you left the Ponderosa, you\u2019d write, like you did when you were at college. Clay never wrote, even though he knew where I was.\u201d Joe dashed away a tear. \u201cClay was my brother, but he acted like he was just my friend.\u201d Joe sniffed, and wiped his nose on his shirtsleeve. \u201cAdam, nobody could take the place of you or Hoss. Don\u2019t you know that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

By this time, Adam was having trouble controlling the tears welling in his eyes. He moved to sit next to Joe, and put his arms round his little brother. There were times when Adam could cheerfully murder Joe, but there were times like now, when Joe\u2019s love reminded him that he was so lucky. \u201cI guess I do know that, now, Joe,\u201d he said, huskily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I love you,\u201d Joe said, simply. \u201cI\u2019ll miss Clay, but I know that he wasn\u2019t as lucky as us, because he never learned how to be a real brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAmen,\u201d said Ben\u2019s deep voice from behind them, and they turned to see their father and brother standing in the doorway. \u201cWe tried to teach that lesson to Clay both times he was with us.\u201d Ben smiled down at Joe, and touched his cheek gently. \u201cBut I don\u2019t think he failed the lesson altogether. After all, he sacrificed himself for you. How many times have you, or Adam or Hoss put yourselves in danger for each other?\u201d He looked at his sons, so different, yet bound with the strongest ties known to man. \u201cClay loved you like a brother, Joe. He showed that by what he did at the end. He just didn\u2019t know how to show it any other time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thoughtfully, Joe wiped his nose on his sleeve again. His father made a disgusted noise, but as Joe had little other choice, he didn\u2019t make too much fuss. \u201cI hadn\u2019t thought of that, Pa,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cBut you\u2019re right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m always right, young man,\u201d Ben scolded, smiling at his boys.<\/span><\/p>\n

From that night on, Joe\u2019s recovery picked up speed, because his mind was at last healed, which allowed his body to heal, too. Despite everything they said to one another that night, Joe and Adam soon resumed their bickering. Ben just ignored it, for the most part, stepping in only if blood looked likely to be shed.<\/span><\/p>\n

We all show our love in different ways.<\/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","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0A sequel to the episode First Born. \u00a0 A chance meeting in an hotel reunites Joe with his brother Clay. But is Clay’s past about to catch up with him again?<\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0 \u00a0(10,585 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":14240,"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_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,1008,13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1634","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-whn","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-13-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/snip_20170426185456.png?fit=740%2C460&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1634","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=1634"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1634\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/14240"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1634"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1634"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1634"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}