{"id":1785,"date":"2013-06-05T21:00:18","date_gmt":"2013-06-06T01:00:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1785"},"modified":"2025-08-01T13:29:18","modified_gmt":"2025-08-01T17:29:18","slug":"revelation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1785","title":{"rendered":"Revelation (by BluewindFarm)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summar<\/strong>y:\u00a0\u00a0 When a man rescues one of Ben Cartwright\u2019s sons not once, but twice; the stranger brings huge implications for the family. Will it bring them together or tear them apart?
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Rating<\/strong>: Teen+ for mild language, violence, and mild adult situations. \u00a0 (61,135 words)<\/span><\/p>\n

A slightly alternate reality set shortly before the series began.<\/span><\/p>\n

The final page contains reviews\/comments from the old BonanzaBrand Library.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Revelation\u2026 Chapter 1 \u2013 San Francisco Confusion<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The first officer stood erect as he watched the men under his command eagerly run down the gangplank that took them from the sailing vessel named Wanderer II out onto the pier and ultimately the streets of San Francisco, California. The ship gracefully rose and fell as the tide moved around it and its berth. The ship had looked majestic with its sails billowing in the breeze as she sailed into the harbor, but now, with all sails furled and tied to the yardarms, it looked like a skeleton reaching for the sky with dozens of rope ladders hanging like cobwebs and swaying in rhythm with its movement.<\/span><\/p>\n

The growing city of San Francisco owed its reputation as a bustling port town to the harbor full of naval and merchant vessels, alike. The man standing on the starboard side deck surveyed the other vessels alongside the Wanderer and smiled as his men mingled with others from the various ships, enjoying their first taste of liberty in months. Before disembarking, each man received the warning of the increased dangers at night, and told to travel in groups of no less than three to prevent from being \u2018Shanghaied\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not joining the men, Number One?\u201d the captain asked as he came to stand beside his first officer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will later, right now, we need to complete our log entries as well as I need to write letters regarding the two men we lost coming around Cape Horn.\u201d The first officer subconsciously shivered at the harrowing memories during the days the ship and all hands battled the ocean and the sky, wrestling themselves from being consigned to a watery tomb provided by Poseidon.<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing side by side, the two men weren\u2019t so different, other than their ages. Both men measured in height at six foot, one and their physiques were much the same build; the only difference being the fringe of grey that peppered the captain\u2019s dark hair. The eyes of both men were dark to where some would claim they were \u2018brooding eyes\u2019, and their skin was darkly tanned and weathered borne from the years of standing on the deck of a ship and facing the elements.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour previous captain, Morgan Sheppard, commended your eloquence within your duty to notify the next of kin of the passing of their loved one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what a college education can do for a man,\u201d the first officer tartly replied. It was a tedious task, but he knew it to be necessary and deserving more than the \u2018I regret to inform you of the death of your son \/ husband. His sacrifice was not in vain,\u2019 as the first captain he served under had written in the letters of notification.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEngineering and English Literature, if I remember correctly, and Masters in both,\u201d the captain stated as he pulled out an ornately decorated pipe and prepared to light it as the two men continued to casually speak to each other. \u201cAn odd combination for someone bound for the sea\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s in my blood.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCollege or the sea,\u201d teased the captain as he inhaled deeply from his pipe and slowly exhaled, feeling more relaxed than he had in months.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe sea, as my grandfather told me, I\u2019m the first of my family to go to college and it made him so proud when I graduated second in my class.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAye, I\u2019d heard good things regarding your grandfather, he being a merchant marine and all; and I was right pleased when the Admiral recommended you as my first officer for this voyage. Hopefully the blow this ship sailed through hasn\u2019t put you off making your final decision to return to sea? We need good men like you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The captain\u2019s inquiry was more than informal, Admiral Dahlgren had previously informed him that the man taking over the role as his first officer for this voyage was up for his own command, but had not accepted the commission. From what the captain learned, though the sea was in the man\u2019s blood, he had a strong desire to settle down, maybe take a wife and raise a family. The Admiralty had carefully considered all prospects before choosing Captain Johann-Sebastian Addison as the man\u2019s captain; he was the man the United States Navy expected to convince this first officer to accept the destiny those in Washington saw him fulfilling.<\/span><\/p>\n

On several occasions, nature or conflict had forced the first officer to accept a temporary promotion to acting captain when the commander of their ship was incapacitated or had been lost at sea. The reports from the ships\u2019 seconds and the ships\u2019 surgeons from the vessels on which he had served heaped high praises on the man for his composure and skillfulness in seeing one ship through a storm and the other through an attack by pirates. His official records indicated that twice the promotion to captain had been conferred, promising him command of the latest and fastest sailing vessel, but twice he had declined.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know the Admiral has informed you of my wish to retire from the service. This land out here, it\u2019s wild and untamed\u2026 I\u2019m told that my father had a dream to head west. He left the sea\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t remember mention of your father,\u201d Captain Addison quietly stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWasn\u2019t your father a composer or something?\u201d the first officer teasingly asked, redirecting the conversation. The humor of the situation twinkled in his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I should have remembered that in addition to your majors at college, you also minored in music composition and theory. And no\u2026 I was \u2018not\u2019 named after my father\u2026 My mother favored the music written by Johann-Sebastian Bach, and it is for him that I am named.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t let those of society hear you say that Bach \u2018wrote\u2019 music, he was and is considered a great \u2018composer\u2019,\u201d again the first officer couldn\u2019t keep his mirth from showing on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf only I could have been the first born son\u2026 Unfortunately that honor and name went to my oldest brother, Gerhard Eichmann Addison, III.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot sure that I\u2019d like that moniker myself,\u201d mused the first officer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, and Adam Stoddard Cartwright is any better?\u201d the captain teased back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy grandfather told me that my mother named me Adam, and I\u2019m told my father insisted that my middle name honor her father, my grandfather.\u201d Knowing his captain would ultimately ask the question directly, Adam continued, \u201cMy father died during his travels west, I don\u2019t know that much about him, other than before their marriage he served as the first officer for my grandfather on one of his merchant vessels.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow did he die?\u201d Captain Addison asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m told it was a senseless death\u2026 He was traveling west. I heard it was an Indian attack that could have been prevented.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow old were you? When he died?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not exactly sure when he died. I was almost eleven when a friend of my grandfather\u2019s stopped by and I overheard them talking.\u201d Adam remembered his early childhood\u2026 As a young child, he hadn\u2019t thought anything about his grandfather and a nanny raising him; that is until he started school and realized his friends had mothers and fathers. When he asked his grandfather about his parents, the man was too choked up to speak other than to say that his mother had died shortly after giving birth to him. But when he pressed his grandfather about his father, the man became aggrieved and couldn\u2019t answer the young boy\u2019s question. Adam was a perceptive child, even at six, and not wishing to upset his grandfather any more, he never asked again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam remember, he was almost eleven when a man who was a friend of his grandfather stopped by, and late one night he overheard them talking and mentioned the boy\u2019s father. Adam eagerly listened, knowing that what he did was wrong, but still\u2026 this was his father they were speaking about.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a shame about Ben\u2019s death,\u201d the man stated as he accepted a brandy from Abel Stoddard.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d Abel asked as he set the decanter to the sideboard and returned to sit in an overstuffed chair in front of the fire.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 I was traveling several months back and encountered some people and we got to talking about where we\u2019d been and who we knew\u2026 Turns out they were on a wagon train some years before with a man named Ben Cartwright, he and his new wife\u2026 A foreigner she was\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure it was Ben?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAye, he mentioned \u2018this\u2019 Ben spoke of the child he\u2019d left behind, and specifically remembered him mentioning your name.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen it was the boy\u2019s father\u2026\u201d Abel sank back in his chair. He knew it had been an exceedingly long time since he\u2019d received any correspondence from Ben\u2026 But in the harsh territory the man was traveling to\u2026 Abel knew from his years at sea how easy it was for letters to be lost.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t call Ben Cartwright the boy\u2019s father, not after he abandoned the child with you,\u201d the man spat out venomously.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam allowed the tears to fall. His father\u2026 He had a step-mother\u2026 He grieved that his father had left him and went on with his life; but now they were dead.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe didn\u2019t abandon the child!\u201d Abel defended his son-in-law, \u201cWe both agreed it would be best to leave the boy here, until Ben settled and could send for him.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor all intent and purposes he did abandon the child\u2026 Turns out the entire family was killed during an Indian attack at a place called Ash Hollow. Ben, his wife, and I think they mentioned something about a child\u2026 The man didn\u2019t recall much more about what happened, it being so long ago.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen it was for the best that Ben left my grandson here. My God\u2026 to sit here and think that Adam could have been killed during an Indian attack; it sends shivers down my spine.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The captain saw his first officer\u2019s eyes soften as if he were remembering something. He gave the man a few minutes to remember. When it appeared that Adam was returning to the present he asked, \u201cBut what\u2019s drawing you to this land, now?\u201d With pipe in hand, the captain moved his arm to indicate the expanse beyond the city in front of them. \u201cYou\u2019ve been to sea for the past six years, worked your way up the ranks\u2026 You\u2019re destined for captaincy\u2026 Why deny yourself what you\u2019ve worked so hard to attain?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026 Maybe the land is in my blood too.\u201d The first officer allowed his eyes to focus as he thought of the dreams his father might have held. \u201cI guess more importantly, I want to see what drew my father to want to travel out here, across the country and into this new territory\u2026 What pulled him\u2026\u201d He stiffened as his thoughts turned to \u2018what might have been\u2019. \u201cIf he had been content to stay in Boston, maybe open a ships\u2019 chandler store\u2026 Would he not have been on that wagon train and been killed by the indigenous population? I want to know this land and maybe\u2026 through this land I\u2019ll come to understand my father and why he left me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen you grew older\u2026 You never asked your …\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt didn\u2019t seem important then\u2026 But lately\u2026\u201d Adam gave an exasperated huff that indicated he really didn\u2019t know why he felt compelled to make this voyage to the Pacific Ocean side of the country and to set out to find out what drew his father west, and to his death.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen are you planning to leave my company? The Admiral stated you have four month\u2019s leave due you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn the morning\u2026\u201d Lieutenant Adam Cartwright stated, standing with his arms behind his back. He had slowly come to a position of at ease, just a step down from attention, as he sensed the conversation shift towards duty.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd after your four-month leave?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll know better at the end of my leave. Right now\u2026 I can\u2019t say one way or the other. All I know is that I have to do this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen come, I\u2019m sure Cook will have a proper supper for us in my cabin. We can complete our log entries and you can write those letters that neither of us are fond of writing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

That night, after packing all his belongings into the trunk at the foot of his bunk, Adam Cartwright pulled out the music box that was carefully wrapped to prevent any damage during his travels. When he had left for college, his grandfather had given it to him and explained it belonged to his mother. As he lay on his bunk and opened the lid and pulled out his most precious possession, a daguerreotype of his mother and father on their wedding day. The couple faced the camera but the love they had for each other was evident in their smiles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Many times as a child he had asked his grandfather to tell him stories about his parents and each time he saw the hurt in the elder man\u2019s eyes\u2026 in time he stopped asking. It grieved him to know his mother had died minutes after his birth having suffered complications from a fall shortly before. He felt it was quite possible that there would not have been a way to change his mother\u2019s fate, but as for his father\u2026 Could a dream really mean that much to a man\u2026 willing to give up all he knew in order to seek that which he didn\u2019t?<\/span><\/p>\n

As he grew up and excelled in school, his grandfather encouraged him to attend college and the two of them chose Harvard. The summer before his senior year, Adam had the opportunity to travel with a friend from Boston, Massachusetts to Charleston, South Carolina. During their voyage they traveled by sea and as the days passed, the sailing stories Grandfather Stoddard had told Adam came to life and Adam could see himself standing at the helm of a mighty ship.<\/span><\/p>\n

Prior to graduating, Adam petitioned the Navy for admission. After receiving his academic achievement records, the Navy immediately commissioned Adam as an ensign and assigned him to sea. The grandson of Abel Stoddard rose quickly through the ranks with those he surpassed bearing no grudge or antagonism towards his rise. No one else put in the untold hours to learn his responsibilities or prove his merit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lightly rubbing his finger over the picture of his parents he wondered, \u2018Would you both be proud to know that I followed father to sea? What would you think about my following your trip west, father?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEnter,\u201d Adam spoke aloud as he heard the quiet knock on his cabin door; he rose to a sitting position on his bunk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Kenny, the sixteen year old assigned as his cabin boy opened the door and entered. Many people, including Adam, thought the boy was much younger than his actual age due to his fair hair and skin, and the overabundance of freckles that littered across his cheeks and nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMister Cartwright, I\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes Kenny,\u201d Adam encouraged when the boy\u2019s voice faltered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard you were going on leave and not returning with us\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right; I\u2019m taking my leave in the morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just wanted to let you know that I appreciate all you\u2019ve done for me\u2026 helping me with my studies. Captain Addison stated you\u2019d also put in a word about my application for Annapolis\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have. You deserve the opportunity, but once you\u2019ve been accepted it will be up to you to remain. My name won\u2019t mean a thing if you mess up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI promise you sir; I\u2019ll make you proud that you recommended me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you make your father proud that you attained what he always dreamed you\u2019d become\u2026 an officer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will sir, and thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome Kenny. Now, off to bed, it\u2019s late.\u201d Adam saw his cabin boy to and out the door of his quarters.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night Mister Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Closing the door, Adam turned down the lantern anchored to the wall and made his way back to his bunk. Sitting down to remove his boots and uniform, Adam thought, \u2018Yes, I guess a dream can be worth all that\u2026 to leave all you know in order to find something you don\u2019t. I followed a dream by going to college\u2026 Now, I\u2019m following your dream\u2026 in order to learn more about you, father.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam Cartwright inquired of the harbormaster about a boarding house he might recommend for the few days it would take him to provision himself for his trip to the new territories of Utah and Nevada. As he walked up the stepping stones along the well-manicured lawn to the front porch of the tidy home, he removed his hat and placed it under his arm. A few moments later, after three brisk knocks on the door, it opened to reveal a somewhat ample-sized woman with a smile that shown through to her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I help you?\u201d the woman asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you are Mrs. Roehl, the harbormaster recommended your place as lodging for the next three nights.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m Mrs. Roehl, please come in, mister\u2026\u201d she left her sentencing hanging, hoping the sailor would offer his last name.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright\u2026 Lieutenant Adam Cartwright, formerly First Officer of the naval ship The Wanderer II.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease come in Mr. Cartwright, I do happen to have two rooms available\u2026 I\u2019ll show you upstairs and you can choose which you prefer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you have one facing east, I would appreciate it\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, an early riser\u2026\u201d the woman spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both rooms faced the east and Adam chose the room on the corner, the room having windows in two of the walls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe harbormaster should be forwarding my trunk later today\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s no problem. I have officers room with me on a regular basis, though right now\u2026 you\u2019re the only one.\u201d The woman was curious about the man and inquired, \u201cSo are you waiting for your next assignment?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo ma\u2019am. I\u2019m taking leave from the service and going to do some exploring.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t tell me you\u2019re one of those gold-seeking fools,\u201d the woman spoke before she had a chance to think about the audacity of her statement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo ma\u2019am\u2026 Just a traveler who\u2019s wanting to spend some time on the land and experience its beauty.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh\u2026 a romantic.\u201d Seeing the crimson invade Adam\u2019s cheeks, she apologized, \u201cI\u2019m sorry I made you blush, but most men don\u2019t come here for the beauty of the land, they come for the adventure and the chance to strike it rich.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve had my fill of adventure; we came around Cape Horn. I\u2019m ready to have stable land under my feet for a while.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The woman returned Adam to the first floor landing and answered his questions about a reputable livery and mercantile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do recommend that you change out of your naval uniform and into regular clothes, they\u2019ll overcharge you for anything you decide to purchase if you go in dressed as you are. Oh\u2026 I don\u2019t mean to imply that they\u2019ll sell you poor quality beasts or provisions, it\u2019s just that these men will be more apt to charge a higher profit with you being an officer, as you being paid better than your subordinates or those coming west to seek their fortune.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for your advice. Now\u2026 can you recommend a clothes shop where I might find clothing\u2026 so I may appear to be seeking my fortune?\u201d Adam asked as he graciously accepted the woman\u2019s advice.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

An hour later, the civilian Adam Cartwright stepped from the clothing store wearing the latest attire for those traveling across the land. His uniform was properly folded in one of several packages to be delivered to the boarding house.<\/span><\/p>\n

He made his purchases at the General Store for provisions and asked that they be delivered to Mrs. Roehl\u2019s boarding house, as well. Next he stopped at the recommended livery, only to find the owner was Mr. Roehl. Having sufficiently convinced the owner that he did have an eye for horses and passed over the first three saddle horses shown, Adam selected a tall, sturdy chestnut gelding with three white stockings and a white blaze as his saddle horse. He also chose a rather large-boned horse, obvious one with some draft in its lineage as his packhorse; he steadfastly refused the notion of taking a mule as a pack animal.<\/span><\/p>\n

After paying for the animals and their feed and board for the next few days, Adam headed to the saddler shop where he spent a good thirty minutes discussing the merits of the different styles of saddles and finding one that felt comfortable to his seat and had the length of stirrup leathers required for his long legs. He paid the manager for the saddle and pad, cinch, and bridle, as well as a harness for his packhorse and asked for them to be delivered to the Top of the Nob Livery by eight o\u2019clock the following morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

From the dining room in one of the more upscale restaurants in town, Adam watched as the night watchman began lighting the lamps that lined the street. Taking that as his cue to return to the boarding house in order to prevent himself from being Shanghaied, as he had warned his men against traveling alone.\u00a0 Adam picked up his new hat from one of the other seats around the table where he sat and pulled out sufficient coinage to pay his bill and leave a generous tip.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he walked along, he took note of the architectural styles of the various buildings that lined both sides of the street, but still kept an eye out for possible trouble. The first hint of trouble came from hearing scuffling and grunting as he passed an alleyway. In the shadows he saw a group of men appear to be beating an unfortunate fellow, at least three to one odds.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot quite fair,\u201d Adam mumbled as he decided to even the odds a little bit.<\/span><\/p>\n

The man nearest to Adam felt a firm hand grab his collar from behind and he struggled to quickly regain his balance. With a quick right hook and a fast left upper jab, Adam saw the man sink to the ground as he slid down the side of the building providing the darkness to cover their attack.<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking a moment to decide which of the two remaining men he planned to take on next, Adam had to admire the spunk of the man in not giving up the fight against the two remaining men, even though he was receiving more blows than he was delivering.<\/span><\/p>\n

The largest of the two remaining was about to deliver a staggering blow with a piece of wood he had picked up from the ground when he felt a crushing pressure on his wrist and his arm being twisted against its natural angles. \u201cI wouldn\u2019t do that,\u201d the man heard hissed in his ear. \u201cIf I were you, I\u2019d take my friends and leave. I\u2019m sure by now one of the constables has been alerted to this little exhibition\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was about to release the man\u2019s wrist when a body slammed into his back and knocked him to the ground. As he reached for his service pistol and struggled to push the weight off his back to regain his feet, he heard the sound of a gun being fired followed by chips from the cobble stones striking his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get out of here!\u201d one of the attackers yelled as the sound of police whistles pierced the air.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grunted as he presumed it to be one of the attackers who had crashed against him pushed himself up in order to run away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Allowing his service pistol to settle back into the holster around his waist, Adam sat up. Briefly evaluating if he had suffered any damage, Adam watched as the three men ran to the other end of the alley and split up to run in different directions. His attention was drawn to the moans emanating from the victim who lay partly sprawled on the ground, yet leaning against the wall of the building.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rising to his feet, Adam approached the man and inquired, \u201cAre you okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly shaking his head and struggling to open his eyes the man answered, \u201cMaybe come morning\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stretched an arm down to give the man a hand and helped him stand, if what the man was doing could be considered standing. To Adam he appeared to wobble on his feet and swayed from side to side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou got a place to say the night?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh? I\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHOLD IT RIGHT THERE!\u201d was yelled from the opening of the alley.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright officer, the men who were attacking this man ran out the other end of the alley,\u201d Adam informed and pointed the way the men had run.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs what this man saying right?\u201d the officer asked the young man Adam had helped to his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, something like that. The others were bigger than him\u2026\u201d the man staggered and fell into Adam\u2019s supporting arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three were talking when another officer came to the scene, \u201cDonaldson, there\u2019s been a murder over on Biltmore. If these two are okay, leave them. We\u2019re needed elsewhere.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see that he gets home,\u201d Adam stated and watched the two officers leave at a quick jog. Addressing the man he was supporting, he asked, \u201cSo\u2026 where is home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot here,\u201d the man answered and promptly passed out.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leaning his head backwards and rolling his closed eyes, Adam slowly shook his head side to side after he returned his head to its normal bearing and thought, \u2018How do I get myself into this\u2026 I\u2019ve warned my men about going out alone\u2026 And here I throw myself into the middle of it.\u2019 Talking to his new, yet unconscious friend, Adam hefted the light-weight man over his shoulder and returned to Mrs. Roehl\u2019s boarding house. \u201cWell, let\u2019s get you somewhere that you can sleep it off.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It pleased Adam to no end when neither Mrs. nor Mr. Roehl came to the foyer and inquired about the man slung over his shoulder as he proceeded up the stairs and to his room. The man was slowly returning to consciousness as Adam dropped him to the bed and turned to light the lantern on the small table.<\/span><\/p>\n

First he removed his own jacket and hat before he began to tend to the man he\u2019d brought, for lack of a better description, home. Using the light provided by the lamp, Adam took a good look at the man and was astounded to realize that he couldn\u2019t be much older than Kenny. Though he was built with more substance, the person lying in his bed was probably still an adolescent in Adam\u2019s estimation.<\/span><\/p>\n

He pulled off the youth\u2019s well worn boots and set them on the floor at the end of the bed. Next he unbuttoned the torn dark colored shirt; revealing what come morning he would have colorful bruises along his ribs that would nicely match the black eyes he would no doubt have, too. Sitting the boy up, he removed the youth\u2019s shirt and draped it over the back of a chair that sat in front of a rolled-top desk after laying the young man back down on the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy there,\u201d Adam spoke in an effort to calm the youth as he began moving about.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d the boy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, I\u2019m not your\u2026 pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuurt-t,\u201d the boy slurred the word as he spoke and moved his arms to wrap around his ribs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m sure you are hurting.\u201d Adam gently felt along the ribs and regretted that he now would have to advise his hosts of the situation. \u201cYou\u2019ve got a couple of busted ribs from what I can feel. Just lie still and I\u2019ll see about locating a doctor for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d the boy said again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere do you live?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot\u2026 here,\u201d he again answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do I get word to your \u2018pa\u2019?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026\u201d the boy stated before he slipped unconscious.<\/span><\/p>\n

It amused Adam that the foremost things the boy thought about were his pa and his horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam filled the bowl on the nightstand with water from the pitcher and with the towel he began to clean the dirt and blood off his young charge\u2019s face. When he felt he had done all he could, he stepped from the room and went to the parlor where he inquired about a doctor and explained what happened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo doubt you saved that boy from being Shanghaied,\u201d Mrs. Roehl stated. \u201cDoc Dandridge lives about six blocks away from here, Ronnie would a gone, but he was called back to the livery. I\u2019ll go fetch the doctor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo ma\u2019am, I wouldn\u2019t feel right about you going out this late in the evening, especially unescorted. I\u2019m pretty sure I can find the doctor\u2019s residence if you\u2019ll give me directions and his address.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With address in hand and Mrs. Roehl watching the boy, Adam left the boarding house in search of the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As Adam walked along the streets and was close to approaching the restaurant where he had just ate. He was thinking of the names of the streets he would pass, when he saw a rather large man wearing a light colored, tall hat with a rounded crown approaching him and could hear the man mumbling, \u201cIf I ever get my hands on him\u2026 I\u2019m gonna wring his neck\u2026 He\u2019s gonna rue the day he was ever born.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The man looked up and called out, \u201cHey mister!\u201d as Adam stopped in his tracks. \u201cHave ya seen a young man about here, he\u2019d be wearin\u2019 tan pants and a dark shirt with a black cowboy hat?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Leary that this man could be part of the Shanghai attempt Adam answered, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, but I\u2019m fresh off a ship and haven\u2019t really paid attention to anything other than to find the boarding house where I\u2019m staying.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, okay. Sorry to bother ya,\u201d the large man apologized, tipped his hat and walked away.<\/span><\/p>\n

The man continued to walk away, looking left and right in each alley he passed, Adam exhaled deeply, thankful the big man wasn\u2019t after him. Fifteen minutes later, Adam was knocking on the front door of an impressive three story house and explained to the butler who answered the door the reason for his calling.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Within an hour of leaving the boarding house, Adam returned with Doctor Dandridge to find the young man still unconscious. The physician set to work to examine his patient and to tend to his injuries.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis man can thank his lucky stars that you were there, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Doc Dandridge replied as he packed away his instruments and supplies.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTwo broken ribs, a concussion, and a myriad of bruises and abrasions; I\u2019ll leave some laudanum to give to him when he wakes. He\u2019s going to need it for a few days. Keep him flat on his back tomorrow and see how he handles sitting up the day after. I\u2019ll be back to check on him then, but if he gets worse, don\u2019t hesitate to send for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Mrs. Roehl left the room to escort the doctor from her home; she returned shortly with a tray upon which she\u2019d placed a slice of apple pie and a cup of coffee for her boarder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s he doing?\u201d Mrs. Roehl asked as she set the tray on the dresser.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill out,\u201d commented Adam as he placed the refreshed, damp cloth on the young man\u2019s forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI brought you a piece of pie and some coffee. Did he have any identification on him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI haven\u2019t even thought to look, but I doubt it. If they weren\u2019t attempting to Shanghai him, they probably at the very least stole his wallet,\u201d Adam answered as he picked up the young man\u2019s pants and saw the back pockets empty. He looked to his host with a curious expression as he hung the pants over the back of the chair where previously he\u2019d placed the boy\u2019s shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve raised three sons and I know how to strip a young man out of his clothes,\u201d the woman smiled at the pleasant memories. \u201cThough like most young men, he\u2019ll probably be mortified in the morning when he realizes he should a worn drawers or longjohns under his pants.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hid the grin on his face as he sipped from his cup of coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Having fallen asleep on the chaise lounge in the room he had rented, Adam woke at hearing the young man in his bed moaning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOhhhhh,\u201d the boy moaned as he pulled the dried compress from his forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning,\u201d Adam spoke as he walked over and placed his hand upon the boy\u2019s forehead, pleased there remained no fever. \u201cHow are you feeling this morning?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh\u2026 Fine,\u201d he answered causing Adam to smile. \u201cWho are you?\u201d the boy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour rescuer it would seem,\u201d Adam teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy rescuer\u2026 Oh\u2026 I think I\u2019m gonna be sick,\u201d the boy moaned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam quickly reached for the basin and held it off the side of the bed as the boy wretched out the bile that remained in his empty stomach. Once the convulsions passed and the boy lay back, Adam set the bowl aside and poured water into a cup, and handed it to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, rinse your mouth out and spit back into the cup.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A few moments later, Adam handed a wet wash cloth to the lad and watched has he wiped his face, especially around his mouth and nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFeel better?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Hey\u2026 Uh\u2026 Thanks for last night\u2026 Saving my hide.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome; it\u2019s something I would have done for any of my men.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour men? You a cattle boss or something?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s just say I\u2019m in between jobs right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 Okay,\u201d the boy said as he attempted to sit up and moaned as the room spun.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoc said flat on your back today. Tomorrow we can see how you do sitting up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be fine,\u201d the boy answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou will be if you follow orders. Now, how do we notify your family that you\u2019re temporarily incapacitated\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t drunk!\u201d the boy retorted, starting to sit up and quickly laid back down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say you were. I only meant, how do we notify your family about what happened to you last night and that the doctor has left instructions that need to be followed\u2026 If you\u2019re going to return to being \u2018fine\u2019 as you say.\u201d Adam smiled, how many young sailors, out to prove themselves, had he hauled back to the ship after a night on the town over the years?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, I was staying with my brother at the Huntington Hotel and sorta snuck out..\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSnuck out?! Didn\u2019t your brother warn you about being Shanghaied?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I thought it would be alright, I wasn\u2019t going anywhere near the wharf…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just where were you going?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTo Chinatown, I wanted to get a gift for Hop Sing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHopSing, you have an oriental for a girlfriend?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d the boy embarrassedly exclaimed. \u201cHe\u2019s our housekeeper and cook.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Adam stated as if he understood it all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I ask you a favor? Can you get word to my brother and let him know where I am? I\u2019m sure by now he\u2019s worried sick about me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure\u2026 Are you up to writing a note that I can take to the Huntington Hotel?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, if you got paper and pencil. I only hope Hoss ain\u2019t wired Pa that I\u2019m missing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLast night you mentioned home isn\u2019t here\u2026when I asked you where you lived. Where is home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cVirginia City, Nevada\u2026 The Ponderosa — It\u2019s the ranch my Pa owns, and me and my brother work with him and the men running it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat kind of a ranch is it,\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe got lots of cattle and horses\u2026 Hoss handles the cattle operation and Pa\u2019s letting me work the horses, only Pete\u2019s in charge\u2026 making sure I learn it right. Pa takes care of overseeing the mines and the timber operations, but he\u2019s got managers that do the day to day running of \u2018em.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like a pretty big spread\u2026 if I\u2019m using the correct vernacular\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cVer-what?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cVernacular\u2026 Or maybe lingo would be a better fitting word.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why didn\u2019t you just say that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d Adam absently replied as he took the folded sheet of paper from the boy and placed it in his inner vest pocket. \u201cSo if you live in Nevada, what are you and your brother doing in San Francisco?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe delivered a herd of four hundred head of cattle to Sacramento and then another seventy-five head to The Pisedreo,\u201d the boy mumbled the last word and winced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean The Presidio,\u201d Adam corrected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s it. I could never say it even before I got this headache. By the way, my name\u2019s Joe\u2026 Joe Cartwright.\u201d Even laid out flat on the bed he remembered enough of his manners to extend his right hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, what did you say?\u201d Adam asked, a little more than slightly shocked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy name\u2026 I said my name\u2019s Joe Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright, is that a fairly popular name where you come from?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot that I know of. There\u2019s just the three of us out here, Pa\u2019s got family back east somewhere.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Remembering his own manners, Adam accepted Joe\u2019s handshake and introduced himself, \u201cI\u2019m Adam\u2026 Adam Stoddard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPleased to meet you and, again, thanks for everything. Uh, you won\u2019t forget to get that note to my \u2018BIG\u2019 brother?\u201d Joe over enunciated the word big.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hearing the emphasis, Adam asked, \u201cJust how big?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, at least six foot, three and two hundred, fifty pounds. Ya can\u2019t miss \u2018em, wears a big ten gallon hat. It\u2019s the only hat he can wear that don\u2019t make him look ugly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Remembering the man from the night before, Adam hesitated to ask, \u201cThis brother of yours\u2026 Uh\u2026 Would your brother want to wring your neck?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlways,\u201d Joe answered. \u201cBut he don\u2019t mean it, he just says that when he\u2019s worried that I done gone and got myself into something that I can\u2019t get myself out of.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike last night?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026 like last night,\u201d Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Through fog-shrouded streets, Adam made his way to the Huntington Hotel. As he approached the building, he realized the young man he had rescued had to be more than just an ordinary cowpoke in order to spend the night at such a luxurious establishment.<\/span><\/p>\n

He walked across the marble-floored lobby to the front desk, \u201cExcuse me,\u201d Adam asked of the small man, wearing wire-rimmed glasses standing behind the counter, \u201cWould Hoss Cartwright still be registered as a guest at this hotel?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes he is. Do you have business with him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have a note that needs to be given to him,\u201d answered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA note?\u201d queried the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, from his brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The man behind the counter raised his right hand and snapped his fingers, and promptly three burly men appeared to surround Adam, as the clerk called out, \u201cHe said he has a note from Mr. Cartwright\u2019s brother.\u201d The man backed around the corner and out of sight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes?\u201d Adam asked as he turned to look at the three men. Slowly he raised his arms to prove he didn\u2019t want any trouble once he saw a gun pulled and a badge pinned to the shirt of one of the men upon opening his jacket.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re one of the kidnappers?\u201d the officer asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am not\u2026 a kidnapper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen what\u2019s this note about?\u201d one of the other officers inquire as he pulled the folded sheet of paper from Adam\u2019s inside vest pocket.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI rescued Joe Cartwright last night from a beating. He asked that I bring that note to his brother\u2026 Hoss. If you don\u2019t believe me, you can read the note for yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The officer handed the note to a fourth officer who approached the group, a man wearing sergeant\u2019s stripes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSarge, he claims he\u2019s not one of the kidnappers,\u201d the first police officer stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019ll also clarify he has not been kidnapped. But\u2026 I do believe that there was an attempt last evening. I\u2019ll take you to him myself after I see that his brother receives his note.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The group looked up when the large man barreled down the staircase demanding, \u201cWhere\u2019s my brother! I swear if you\u2019ve harmed him in any way! I\u2019ll pound ya into the ground.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, your brother is\u2026\u201d Adam hesitated at the menacing stature of the man. Joe wasn\u2019t all right, but he was a far sight better than he could have been, \u201cYour brother is in my room at the boarding house\u2026 He encountered some trouble last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat kinda trouble?\u201d the man\u2019s attitude changed from one of a rageful worry, to one of plain worry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEither there was an attempt to Shanghai him or he was overmatched in an attempt to rob him,\u201d Adam replied and went on to explain, \u201cHe suffered a couple of broken ribs as well as a concussion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s the nearest doctor?\u201d question Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s already been seen by a doctor who bound his ribs, ordered he stay flat on his back today, and hopefully tomorrow will be able to tolerate sitting up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay flat on his back?\u201d an increased worry crept into Hoss\u2019 voice. \u201cHe don\u2019t stay anything! Where is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, this man might be giving you this elaborate tale in an effort to apprehend you, as well as your brother\u2026\u201d the sergeant spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow why would I do that?\u201d Adam balefully inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright senior is a wealthy man. Why with both of his sons kidnapped and held for ransom, a kidnapper could ask for anything\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, as I have stated before, I am not, nor have I ever been, a kidnapper. You may accompany me as I take Mr. Cartwright to Mrs. Roehl\u2019s boarding house for their reunion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Roehl? You\u2019re staying at Mrs. Roehl\u2019s?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, for last night and possibly for the next two nights.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYer a soldier then?\u201d asked one of the other police officers. \u201cShe only takes in high-ranking officers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am a naval officer\u2026\u201d Adam heard one of the other police officers state, \u2018He ain\u2019t no soldier, he\u2019s a sailor,\u2019 before he continued, \u201cI was the first officer on the Wandered II, and am currently on an extended leave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have papers to prove this?\u201d the sergeant inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy papers are at the boarding house and the Wanderer II isn\u2019t scheduled to leave harbor until tomorrow, you may contact my former captain, Captain Addison. I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll vouch for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe sure we\u2019ll check into everything mister\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam remembered he hadn\u2019t been forthright earlier in telling his own name after hearing Joe\u2019s last name\u2026 He didn\u2019t know why he didn\u2019t properly identify himself\u2026 It\u2019s just that something niggled in the back of his subconsciousness\u2026 But now\u2026 He had officers of the law inquiring as to his identity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright\u2026 Adam Stoddard Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The large man harrumphed and laughed, \u201cWell, don\u2019t that beat all\u2026 Not a common name like Smith or Jones, but a name\u2019s a name. Oh, in case ya ain\u2019t figured it out\u2026 I\u2019m Hoss Cartwright. Sergeant, I\u2019d really like for this fella to\u2026 Hey\u2026 didn\u2019t we meet last night? I asked ya about seein\u2019 Little Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuilty as charged\u2026 only if I had known you were his brother\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh shucks, I guess as mad as I was last night I wouldn\u2019t a told myself anything about Little Joe, either.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s my younger brother\u2026 and compared to me he\u2019s little,\u201d Hoss explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t know why but all of us sudden he jovially slipped, \u201cCompared to you, I\u2019m little.\u201d His words set the large man to laughing again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, get me to my little brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the two men left the hotel lobby making their way through the crowd that had gathered around them, Sergeant Sanders dismissed his men after giving orders that two of the men were to escort the captain of the Wanderer II to Mrs. Roehl\u2019s boarding house. With business returning to normal at the hotel, the Sergeant followed after the two Mr. Cartwrights and listened as the larger of the two men commented that maybe the other man was some long lost cousin of theirs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe know Pa has a brother named John, and if I remember\u2026 doggonnit\u2026 we got a cousin named\u2026 uh\u2026\u201d The man\u2019s expression indicated his struggle to remember, before he snapped his fingers and exclaimed, \u201cWilliam\u2026 Will, that\u2019s it. We got a cousin named Will. You got a cousin named Will?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t really know. I was raised by my grandfather after my parents died when I was a child.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 Sorry to hear that\u2026 You losin\u2019 your parents and all. Well\u2026 me and Little Joe, we know what it\u2019s like ta lose a ma. I never got to know my ma, but Pa tells me stories about her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou never knew your ma? But\u2026\u201d And then the reasoning dawned on Adam. \u201cYour father remarried.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and Marie was a pretty woman. My ma was too, Pa has pictures of all three a his wives and they were all real pretty,\u201d Hoss answered. \u201cHe\u2019s got all three of their pictures on his desk at home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThree?\u201d slipped out before Adam realized he\u2019d asked. Having been raised in polite society in Boston he knew the question was impolite, especially to ask of a person he\u2019d just met.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Pa was married, before he met my ma. He was real sad when she died. I can still see it in his eyes when he looks at her picture. Guess that\u2019s why he came west, to get away from the memories. But if he hadn\u2019t a come, he\u2019d a never met my ma and I\u2019d a never been born.\u201d The man\u2019s tone was upbeat and happy, he didn\u2019t think on the bad thoughts surrounding the prospect that he\u2019d have never been born, he was just happy that about the way things worked out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoesn\u2019t he look sad when he looks at the pictures of your mothers?\u201d Adam inquired. He had no idea why he was so curious about this family, maybe it was the serene way the big man walking next to him faced the facts of life that motivated Adam to ask.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure he does, but not in the same way\u2026 See when Pa looks at Inger\u2019s, that\u2019s my ma, or Marie\u2019s pictures, he looks sad and then he smiles and looks to Little Joe and me. It\u2019s like he can accept their deaths because they live on in us. But with his first wife\u2026\u201d Hoss stopped speaking, he was beginning to feel that he had revealed a little too much of their family history to this stranger.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow much younger is Joe, than you?\u201d Again Adam couldn\u2019t help but ask the question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s almost six and a half years younger than I am. I was five when Pa went to New Orleans and left me with Hop Sing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe mentioned your cook and housekeeper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh he\u2019s more than that, why Hop Sing\u2019s practically a member of the family. He helped Marie take care a Joe when he was a little shank, and after Marie was killed\u2026 Oh\u2026 She got throwed from her horse when Joe was five, he kinda took over helping to raise both a us so Pa could focus on runnin\u2019 the ranch and all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour father never remarried?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNa, not that there haven\u2019t been women who\u2019d want to become the next Mrs. Cartwright, just that Pa\u2026 Well, we got each other and that\u2019s all we need.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, here we are,\u201d Adam stated as he turned to walk the stepping stones to the front of Mrs. Roehl\u2019s boarding house. \u201cSergeant, Joe Cartwright is upstairs in the front room on that corner of the house,\u201d Adam pointed to the window above.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they stepped to the front porch, from the open window all three men heard Mrs. Roehl\u2019s alarmed voice pleading with someone, \u201cPlease, you can\u2019t get up! The doctor said you have to stay in bed!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLady, he lied to one of us about his name! He\u2019s probably the boss of those men who tried to Shanghai me last night. Now give me my pants!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Little Joe,\u201d exclaimed Hoss as he headed for the door. Inside, he took a moment to find the staircase and ran up and into the hallway. Gathering his bearings, Hoss waited to hear Joe\u2019s voice again and was immediately moving in the direction of the guest room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGIVE ME MY PANTS!\u201d Joe hollered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss entered the room to see his youngest brother heavily leaning against the bedpost, with his left arm wrapped tight around it and his right arm holding on to the sheet wrapped around his waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH! Goll darn you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS!\u201d squealed Little Joe, who let go of the post and tried to take a step towards his big brother. By the second step, the adolescent let go of both the post and the sheet as the spinning sensation he\u2019d been experiencing turned his vision black and he passed out and fell to the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss grimaced as his brother thudded to the floor. \u201cNow see what ya done?\u201d he lovingly stated as he gathered the sheet in one hand and draped it over the unconscious body of his brother and easily lifted him to return him to the bed. \u201cI\u2019m sorry about that Mrs. Roehl, ya seein\u2019 him in his birthday suit and all.\u201d Hoss blushed as he spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe raised three sons,\u201d Adam answered as he entered the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Hoss had Joe settled in the bed and properly covered, he turned to the woman. \u201cI\u2019m sorry about his yellin\u2019 at ya, he knows better than to be that disrespectful of his elders. I\u2019ll see that he apologizes to you when he\u2019s feelin\u2019 better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat won\u2019t be necessary, but I can understand his concerns. We were talking about you\u2026 Mr. Cartwright, only the boy said you told him your name was Stoddard\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hearing what he considered new developments in the disappearance of Joseph Cartwright, the sergeant made his presence within the room known, \u201cUsing an alias? Guess you didn\u2019t expect Mr. Cartwright to have contacted the police so soon\u2026\u201d The man\u2019s hand was slowly moving to the weapon holstered at his side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t use an alias, and I\u2019ve not lied about my identity. I\u2019ll admit it surprised me when the boy told me his last name\u2026 As Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Adam motioned to Hoss, \u201cindicated earlier, our surname is not quite common. Sergeant, my papers are in the top bureau drawer. My name is Adam Stoddard Cartwright. And again I\u2019ll confirm that I am NOT a kidnapper.\u201d As they watched the sergeant carefully approach the bureau and open the top drawer they turned to see Adam pinching the bridge of his nose and gently shake his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you alright, Mr. Cartwright?\u201d Mrs. Roehl inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust a headache, ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The sergeant turned around and in his hands he held and opened a leather expanding portfolio, \u201cThese papers all look official and in order. I\u2019m sorry Mr. Cartwright for doubting you, but you have to understand my position.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do sir, I do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Their attention was drawn to the youth lying on the bed when he started to moan and raised his hand to his head and moments later it dropped to his side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe,\u201d Hoss quietly called as he sat on the edge of the bed. \u201cCome on Shortshanks, ya gotta wake up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t wanna,\u201d mumbled Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you don\u2019t wanna, but if\u2019n you don\u2019t, I\u2019m gonna send for the doctor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine\u2026\u201d Joe answered, eyes still closed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you should send for him anyway,\u201d suggested Adam. \u201cThe doctor wanted him flat on his back today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just heard my husband come in; I\u2019ll send him to bring Doctor Dandridge back.\u201d With that Mrs. Roehl left the room. A few minutes later Mrs. Roehl return with another police officer and a man dressed in a military uniform. \u201cSergeant, these men are here to see you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCaptain Addison,\u201d Adam stood to attention as his former captain in the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, this officer has expressed some doubt as to your identify?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot anymore,\u201d stated the sergeant. \u201cMr. Cartwright, if you\u2019ll not be pressing charges\u2026\u201d the man was speaking to Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharges?\u201d Captain Addison queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a long story, sir,\u201d Adam offered as an explanation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 He done took care a Joe and kept him from bein\u2019 Shanghaied; I won\u2019t be pressin\u2019 no charges agin him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat means our work here is done.\u201d Both police officers took their leave by bidding everyone a good day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCaptain, I\u2019m sorry that you were drawn into this mess,\u201d Adam walked to stand in front of his former superior officer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShanghai attempt?\u201d the captain asked. It amused him how his former first officer could get into the darnedest trouble at times, none of his own doing except for his tenacity to help those in need; a trait that bode well and made his superiors take note of him. \u201cThe little one there?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t little,\u201d the youth, with his eyes still closed, called out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah you are,\u201d Hoss answered. \u201cHow ya feelin\u2019 Little Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike Pa told us about in his stories\u2026 when he was on the deck of those ships\u2026 riding the waves up and down and back up again during a storm.\u201d Pitifully Joe cried, \u201cMake it stop Hoss,\u201d as he turned to his side and curled up, he moved his hands to his head in an effort stop the pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss was slow to react when his brother\u2019s body began convulsing again, but a hand put a basin on his lap and Joe made good use of it. As Hoss set the bowl to the side, the same hand put a cup of water into his hands and a few moments later exchanged it for a damp washcloth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam watched over the siblings as the big man gently and lovingly tended to his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Hoss,\u201d Joe whispered. \u201cDid\u2026 did you wire Pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was gettin\u2019 ready to when I met this fella at the hotel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe barely opened his eyes to see Hoss point to the man who had rescued him the night before and tended to him earlier. \u201cDon\u2019t trust him\u2026 He lied about his name\u2026 \u201c<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah, we know all about that little brother. He didn\u2019t exactly lie, he just didn\u2019t say his full name to ya,\u201d explained Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut he told me this morning he was between jobs…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry nothing about that, just be thankful he was there to save your scrawny hide.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d he lie?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI done told ya he didn\u2019t lie; he ain\u2019t never met anyone with the same last name a him. Little brother, I\u2019d like ya to meet Adam Stoddard Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The lines on Joe\u2019s forehead indicated he was doubtful of what Hoss was saying and also struggling to see properly. \u201cWhy didn\u2019t he say so\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf he were a long lost cousin or somethin\u2019 I don\u2019t blame him for not wantin\u2019 the likes of you to be part a his family,\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe don\u2019t know me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd for that he can count his own blessin\u2019s. Sides, he\u2019s a military officer and probably has better breedin\u2019 than us yahoo\u2019s.\u201d Hoss replaced the damp wash cloth to Joe\u2019s forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho you callin\u2019 a yahoo?\u201d Joe asked, a little bit of fight coming into his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUs little brother, just us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright leaned against the doorframe and watched the interaction between the two brothers; it brought a small smile to his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

From the doorway Doctor Dandridge made his presence known, \u201cGuess I should have expected it would have been you young fellow. What have you gone and done this time?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe tried to get out of bed, and collapse to the floor,\u201d Adam answered as he moved to allow the doctor to enter the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLost consciousness?\u201d the doctor inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor about five minutes,\u201d Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the big fellow?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The physician walked around to the other side of the bed. \u201cNow let me see what you\u2019ve done to yourself, young man.\u201d He raised Joe\u2019s wrist and pulled out his pocket watch; the room quietly waited. \u201cStrong pulse.\u201d Next he pulled out his stethoscope and placed it to Joe\u2019s chest, \u201cSteady and regular. How do your ribs feel?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d answered Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss glared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAny headache?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNauseous?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you mind your manners and answer the doctor. Ya just got through pukin\u2019 your guts out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d replied the physician who couldn\u2019t keep a smile from his lips as he pulled out another instrument and a small candle from his black bag. After lighting the candle, he held the instrument in front of his patient\u2019s eyes and he moved near and away, to peer into Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI take it he\u2019s suffered dizzy spells?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHanging onto the bedpost for dear life when I arrived,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s to be expected. As I said last night… flat on your back until tomorrow,\u201d he looked straight at his patient and then blew out the candle, \u201cand then we\u2019ll see how you manage sitting up.\u201d Turning to the man sitting on the edge of the bed, the physician stated, \u201cHe\u2019s suffered a concussion and each person\u2019s body handles the trauma differently, but everything he\u2019s experienced is normal for the diagnosis. Give him a few more days and he\u2019ll back to normal.\u201d The physician packed away his tools and closed his Gladstone bag.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank ya Doc,\u201d Hoss breathed a sigh of relief. \u201cWhat am I gonna do with ya Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet me outa here and back to the hotel,\u201d suggested Joe, who immediately cowered back into his bed when he saw the look that appeared on his brother\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The day was turning to night when Joe again voiced his complaint about lying in bed; he wanted to go back to the Huntington Hotel with Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow Joe, the doc done told ya ya cain\u2019t get up until tomorrow anyhow,\u201d Hoss answered and pushed Joe down firmly upon the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut this is that fella\u2019s room,\u201d Joe complained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Roehl gave him one of her other guestrooms for the night,\u201d Hoss answered. \u201cAnd you\u2019re to stay in this bed until I return in the mornin\u2019.\u201d Hoss glared at his younger brother to prove he meant business.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I can walk\u2026\u201d Joe pleaded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo you can\u2019t.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can too\u2026\u201d Joe answered back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, say you can walk, whatcha gonna wear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Turning his head slightly sideways Joe saw the chair where his clothes had been earlier was empty.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss continued to tease his little brother, \u201cYa gonna go out wearing your birthday suit around town?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe cowered at the thought of appearing naked or even in a sheet out on the street. It had been humiliating earlier in the day when he tried to get out of bed and found himself naked. He tried to stand up to walk to where his clothes were when the lady came in; he hurriedly grabbed the sheet from the bed and wrapped it around his waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

He became even more alarmed when the woman claimed he had been helped to her home by Mr. Cartwright and Joe didn\u2019t remember his brother finding him, and when his memory cleared a little more, he remembered the other man and was now worried that he had been kidnapped. The kidnapper having told him one name and the woman another name; that was all the proof Joe needed to know he was still in danger. He\u2019d read of such situations in one of the dime store novels he\u2019d purchase every now and then.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShucks little brother, just do as the doctor says\u2026 Gonna be bad enough tellin\u2019 Pa what happened to ya.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe appeared mortified at the thought of what his pa would say upon hearing what happened and tried to change the subject, \u201cHoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKinda funny finding someone out here who has the same last name as us\u2026 don\u2019t ya think?\u201d Joe queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it shore is different. I wonder what Pa\u2019d say if we told him we met this fella.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we offer him to come with us\u2026\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd why\u2019d he wanna do that?\u201d Hoss asked. \u201cHe probably gotta return to his ship.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Mrs. Roehl told me a little while ago, when you stepped out that he was on leave and was going to go exploring Utah and Nevada\u2026 We can help show him the way\u2026 And maybe if he stays with us long enough, he\u2019d meet Pa\u2026 I mean if he is a long lost cousin\u2026 Pa knows more about the family than we do\u2026 He\u2019d want to meet him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa got a point there, little brother. I\u2019ll ask Adam, but ONLY if you promise to stay in bed until the doctor arrives tomorrow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss entered the parlor and was greeted by Adam, standing to his feet, \u201cHow\u2019s he doing?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOrnery, wants to get out of bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoes he usually get into this sort of trouble?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe don\u2019t get into trouble, \u2018xactly. He\u2019s just cain\u2019t sit still\u2026 He\u2019s constantly on the go. But this\u2026 Mister, if you hadn\u2019t come along when you done\u2026 I coulda lost my little brother and I\u2019m beholdin\u2019 to ya.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs I told Joe this morning, it\u2019s something I would have done for any of my men,\u201d Adam answered, trying to brush off the gratitude the man felt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill, I feel like I owe ya somethin\u2019. Adam, Joe said Mrs. Roehl told him you were on leave\u2026 and was wantin\u2019 to go explorin\u2019 Utah and Nevada\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that was my plan,\u201d Adam stated as he prepared to make a cup of coffee for the large man and refresh his own cup.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, seein\u2019 as how Joe\u2019s gonna be a little\u2026 Uh\u2026 Well he ain\u2019t gonna be much help with me gettin\u2019 back home\u2026 I already paid off our drovers and those who are Ponderosa hands already left to take the remuda back\u2026 But we got our own personal horses that we ride that we need to get back home, and Joe ain\u2019t gonna be able to handle his two\u2026 what with his ribs busted and all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam handed the cup of coffee to Hoss and motioned for him to sit down in one of the winged-back chairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 what say you come along with us and help me with the horses?\u201d Hoss looked expectantly towards his new friend and quickly added, \u201cI\u2019m sure Pa would want to give ya a reward or somethin\u2019 for what ya done for Joe, and we\u2019d pay ya for your help gettin\u2019 the horses home…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat won\u2019t be necessary. Since I was already heading that way, I wouldn\u2019t mind the company.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I don\u2019t feel right havin\u2019 you help us out with the horses us not payin\u2019 ya\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you\u2019ll consider a barter\u2026\u201d suggested Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA barter?\u201d Hoss asked and took a drink of his coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I am new to the territory\u2026 how about I hire you and your brother to act as my guides\u2026 at least as far as Virginia City. I think that\u2019s where Joe said your ranch was.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, ya got yourself a barter.\u201d Hoss stood and approached the man, extending his hand to confirm the deal. \u201cI think I\u2019d best get back to the hotel\u2026 You send for me if Little Joe causes you any grief tonight?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll keep an eye on him like he\u2019s my own little brother,\u201d Adam answered and stood to follow the large man out the front door; stopping on the porch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh, ya ain\u2019t gotta do that,\u201d Hoss answered and slapped the man upon his back. \u201cBut if ya think about maybe hogtyin\u2019 him to that bed, ya got my permission.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Leaving the boarding house, Hoss smiled, he was confident that this man could handle Joseph Francis Cartwright as good as he or their pa could.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Revelation\u2026 Chapter 2 \u2013 It Was Supposed to be a Simple Trip Home<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The sun was just beginning to peek over the town of San Francisco when Hoss entered the boarding house and smelled bread baking and sausage frying; he inhaled deeply. Mrs. Roehl came from the kitchen and asked, \u201cHave you had your breakfast this morning?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss removed his hat and answered, \u201cNo ma\u2019am, and what you\u2019re fixin\u2019 sure smells deelishus.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fixing a tray for you and your brother, and the other Mr. Cartwright, if that\u2019s alright with you, Mr. Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMa\u2019am, you\u2019re talkin\u2019 too many Mr. Cartwrights, why doncha just call me Hoss; most folks do. Do ya mind if I go on up?\u201d he indicated up the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, help yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 Do ya know if he behaved himself last night?\u201d Hoss queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t hear a peep out of him all night; I think the medicine might have had something to do with that, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss headed up the stairs and saw Adam exiting from his room to the hallway, \u201cMornin\u2019 Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood Morning Hoss\u2026 And to answer before you ask, he behaved himself last night\u2026 I slipped a dose of laudanum into his water. Even though he kept saying he was fine, I could see in his face and his way of moving that he wasn\u2019t.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa shore know my little brother, and I only wish I\u2019da told ya about slippin\u2019 him the laudanum,\u201d Hoss grinned as he headed towards the room where his little brother slept.<\/span><\/p>\n

Quietly opening the door, Hoss disbelievingly shook his head slowly from side to side at seeing his little brother all sprawled out on the bed, the covers twisted around him. The large man lowered himself to the edge of the bed and felt his brother\u2019s forehead; pleased to feel his skin temperature normal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Shortshanks,\u201d Hoss called as he gently shook his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u201cTime to wake up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo more\u2026 Don\u2019t wanna go to school,\u201d Joe mumbled, turned over and pulled the pillow over his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo you don\u2019t have to go to school no more, Pa let you finish two months ago. But I want you awake so we can see how you\u2019re doin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m doing fine\u2026\u201d Joe said as he reached for the pillow Hoss removed from his head and cried, \u201cHoss\u2026\u201d his voice rising in pitch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow Shortshanks!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Opening his eyes, Joe rolled to his back and looked at the two men standing in his room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you feel this mornin\u2019? Any headache?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Joe\u2019s answer was clipped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow about your ribs?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you ain\u2019t the orneriest little cuss, little brother. Now Mrs. Roehl\u2019s gonna be bring up a tray with breakfast for all of us and I think it would be a good thing if\u2019n you were dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Lifting the covers, Joe squealed, \u201cHey! Where\u2019re my clothes?!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour pants are right here,\u201d Adam stated pointing to the chair. \u201cBut I think it would be for the best if we see how you do sitting up before we think about letting you get dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t need another \u2018older\u2019 brother here,\u201d Joe shot back and glared at the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMind your manners,\u201d admonished Hoss as he jabbed Joe in the chest. \u201cIf it weren\u2019t for him you\u2019d be a heck of a lot worse off.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe I should be thankful I was an only child,\u201d Adam teased with a smile that shown in his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss helped Joe slowly sit up while Adam plumped up and stuffed the pillows behind the boy\u2019s back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGot light headed there for a moment,\u201d Joe stated as he slowly breathed out the breath he\u2019d held.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd now?\u201d Hoss asked again, trying to figure out just how his little brother really was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBetter, much better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re awake,\u201d Mrs. Roehl stated as she entered with clothing draped across her forearm. \u201cThis shirt belongs to my Timothy, he left it here a few weeks back for me to mend, I think it should fit you. I\u2019m laundering and mending yours.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank ya, Ma\u2019am. That\u2019s real thoughtful of ya,\u201d Hoss accepted the shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, and there\u2019s a pair of fresh drawers for him too,\u201d Mrs. Roehl stated as she turned to leave the room. \u201cI\u2019ll give you a few minutes to get him dressed and I\u2019ll bring up your breakfast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDrawers?\u201d Joe disdainfully asked. \u201cI don\u2019t wear drawers!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and she knows it too,\u201d Hoss spoke and laughed at the mortified expression upon Joe\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA fella should always wear clean drawers or at least clean long-john bottoms,\u201d Adam stated and raised his eyebrows in laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo ya need my help?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo I don\u2019t need your help,\u201d Joe defensively answered. \u201cI been dressing myself\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep and just like when you\u2019s a little tike, ya keep forgettin\u2019 to put everythin\u2019 on,\u201d Hoss harrumphed in laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scowled and accepted the shirt and drawers from Hoss and his pants from Adam. Under the covers, Joe finagled his legs into the drawers before throwing back the covers; his actions caused the two men to begin howling earnestly with laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine, just fine. Laugh all you want. There\u2019s an old saying that he who laughs best, laughs last.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cActually, my grandfather would quote, \u2018He who laughs last, thinks slowest,\u2019\u201d which set Hoss off into another howling laugh.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

After finishing eating their breakfast, the three Cartwrights bided their time while waiting for the doctor to discuss their upcoming trip to Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, you got a gun?\u201d inquired Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do. Its standard military issue for naval officers.\u201d Adam stood and walked to his dresser where he pulled out the holstered weapon. Removing the pistol from its leather case, Adam checked to make sure the weapon was still unloaded before handing it to Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKinda old school\u2026 for out here,\u201d Hoss stated as he looked over the Colt cap and ball pistol. \u201cAin\u2019tcha got a revolver?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNever found the need to have a revolver\u2026\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t a man out here if you don\u2019t have a revolver,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis little peashooter won\u2019t help you none if we encounter robbers out on the trail, seein\u2019 as they\u2019ll probably have revolvers as well,\u201d acknowledged Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is all I have,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, as me bein\u2019 your \u2018guide\u2019, I\u2019d say once the doc\u2019s been here to see Joe that we head out and find you a proper weapon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Hoss, we\u2019ll take him to that shop where Pa\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you are stayin\u2019 right here. If ya want to be able to head home, you\u2019re gonna get as rested as much as ya can.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026\u201d pleaded Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no arguin\u2019. It\u2019s gonna be rough enough on ya sittin\u2019 in the saddle with those ribs bandaged\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, did you ask Adam about coming along with us?\u201d Joe excitedly inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sure did\u2026 Ain\u2019tcha been payin\u2019 attention? He agreed. Though I still think he\u2019s gettin\u2019 the better end of the barter,\u201d Hoss announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s that?\u201d Joe asked as he looked questioningly to his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s gettin\u2019 free guide service, and I still have ta put up with ya on the way home cause he rescued ya,\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHardy, har, har\u2026 You wouldn\u2019t feel that way when ya have to tell Pa ya lost me,\u201d Joe announced and stuck out his tongue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t lose ya, you snuck out,\u201d Hoss boldly stated. \u201cAnd let that thought sober ya because Pa\u2019s gonna find out about it.\u201d Hoss poked Joe in the chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t wire him?!\u201d Joe asked with alarm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but he\u2019s gonna know somethin\u2019s up when he sees ya and gives ya a hug.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Doctor Dandridge had been and gone from the boarding house, stating that if they took it easy on the way home and rested frequently throughout the day, he saw no problem why Joe couldn\u2019t travel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut one word of warning, keep it at a walk or at a lope. Trotting might be too rough on the boy, jostling him and all. And for God\u2019s sake don\u2019t let him go galloping!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scowled at the physician while Adam and Hoss nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

That evening, the brothers and their new friend made arrangements to leave early the following morning. Joe asked if they\u2019d purchased the revolver for Adam and begged to see it; he whistled as Adam pulled out the black leather holster and his new revolver \u2013 a Colt .45.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam had already retired to his room, and it was just the brothers, \u201cJoe, you get some shuteye and we\u2019ll head on home in the mornin\u2019. I\u2019ll wire Pa tonight and let him know we\u2019re on our way back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou gonna tell him about Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah, don\u2019t see why\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut if he\u2019s a long lost cousin\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe may and he may not…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With more perception than most people would give the youngster credit for, Joe asked, \u201cYou think that maybe there was a fight in the family and Adam\u2019s from the black sheep side?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat gives you that idea, Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. It\u2019s just that we ain\u2019t never met anyone else with our last name, and Pa don\u2019t talk about his family that much\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Pa\u2019s lost three wives, and I think that\u2019s heartache enough in addition to him leavin\u2019 his family behind to come out here to follow his dream.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut still\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah, Pa will meet him soon enough. You get to sleep and I\u2019ll get Cochise as well as Warrior and Skeeter ready for ya in the mornin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNight Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNight Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss and Adam met up at the Top of the Nob Livery before the sun was up and prepared the eight horses for travel. Having arrived at the boarding house, they tied the animals to the railing in front before proceeding inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Hoss made his way upstairs to help his brother get ready, Adam spoke with Mr. and Mrs. Roehl.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhile I\u2019m gone, I\u2019d like to leave my trunk here, and when I get settled I\u2019d like for you to ship it to me. There should be enough money in this envelope to reimburse you for your efforts and for shipping it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll keep it safe, don\u2019t you worry, young man,\u201d Mr. Roehl spoke after pulling a pipe from his lips and placing the envelope in an inner pocked of his vest.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three looked up as the brothers slowly made their way down the stairs; Hoss hovering over Joe while the younger of the two protested against the \u2018baby treatment\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Once they were in their saddles, they turned their horses and slowly made their way eastward from San Francisco heading to Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Adam\u2026 You being a sailor and all\u2026 How\u2019d you pick out such a good horse?\u201d Joe asked as they rode.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy grandfather and I had horses in Boston; though it has been a few years since I\u2019ve sat one for as long as I probably am going to be while on leave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, another reason to take it easy,\u201d Hoss laughed. \u201cDon\u2019t need two invalids out here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scowled at his brother and asked, \u201cYa named him?\u201d upon looking over Adam\u2019s horse; a leggy chestnut with an excellent barrel chest and shoulders, and stout legs. He was impressed with the horse\u2019s conformation and the fact that a seaman selected him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he is a flashy horse\u2026 I was thinking on calling him Sport.\u201d With that the horse began tossing its head up and down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou might want to reprimand him against doing that,\u201d Joe offered. \u201cThey start and don\u2019t learn its wrong, it can become mighty irritating.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s irritatin\u2019, little brother, is you offerin\u2019 advice when none\u2019s been asked of ya,\u201d Hoss jabbed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just saying what Pete\u2019s been telling me as he\u2019s overseeing me working the horses,\u201d boasted Joe. He was proud that their father had agreed that with his natural affinity for horses it only made sense for Joe to learn that part of the Ponderosa, from bottom to the top.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo what did you name your mount?\u201d Adam asked, looking at the somewhat smaller pinto the young man rode.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe spoke up, \u201cThis one\u2026 is Cochise.\u201d Joe gave the gelding he rode a firm and loving pat on the neck and slightly grimaced as he leaned forward. \u201cThis one,\u201d pointing to his dun colored horse that Adam led, \u201cis Skeeter. And the skewbald is Warrior. Hoss is riding Chubs, while his other two horses are Nomad and Wanderer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSay, didn\u2019t I hear you mention to one of those policemen back at the hotel that your ship was the Wanderer?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cActually, it was the Wanderer II; it was named after a merchant ship that went down in a fierce storm in the Atlantic about five years before this vessel was commissioned.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSeems kinda funny they\u2019d name a military ship after a civilian ship,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when the ship went down, it was under the control of the navy. They needed a vessel that could get into a certain port inconspicuously. Unfortunately, the ship sank when it struck a reef that was unmarked on the charts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid she lose all hands?\u201d Joe inquired. He remembered the stories their father had told them of his years at sea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot all. But about half, a mixture of civilian and military died when she broke deep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry to hear about that,\u201d Joe mumbled. He quieted because he could see how the loss of any life at sea upset their traveling companion.<\/span><\/p>\n

The riders spent the next few hours in relative silence before coming to a location where Hoss felt would make a good spot to stop for lunch, and to rest the horses and the riders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t need to stop,\u201d Joe called.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou may not, but I sure do,\u201d Adam answered as he stiffly stepped from the saddle and grimaced a little. \u201cI\u2019m beginning to feel some muscles that I didn\u2019t remember I had.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Stepping down from Chubs, Hoss pulled a bottle from his saddle bag and walked over to hand it to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I thought Pa said no liquor, especially on our way home?\u201d Joe complained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not liquor,\u201d Adam stated and smiled, having turned the bottle over in his hands and read the label, \u2018Mexican Mustang \/ Liniment \/ Lyon Mfg. Co \/ New York.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

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

By the time the three men stopped to make camp for the night, Adam was really looking forward to liberally applying the liniment. As Joe and Hoss set out to make camp and began to cook their meal, Adam stepped outside their camp and relished the relief the tonic inflicted on his aching buttocks and thighs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lowered himself to the ground and laid on his side, head propped up by his hand, watching Hoss stir the pot of beans. His eyes began to water as Adam walked near him, \u201cYou are sleeping downwind?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHadn\u2019t thought on it,\u201d Adam stated as he sat at an angle to Joe and Hoss and leaned back against a tree.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat stuff\u2019s pretty potent,\u201d Hoss stated and smiled as Adam stretched out his long legs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can tell. Wish I had some of this stuff after the latest blow we went through,\u201d Adam shivered at the memory.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBlow?\u201d Joe queried, and feeling some discomfort in his ribs from the way he was laying on the ground, rolled to his back. Interlocking his fingers behind his head he intently listened as Adam described the storm they encountered as they rounded Cape Horn. Adam painted a vivid picture of hours at the helm, legs stiffened and braced against the heaving desk as the roiling waters acted as a bascule, driving the ship high and dropping her into the hollows between the waves. He told of the hours holding onto the wheel, the aches in his muscles and joints from the cold waves driven over the bow and the wind blowing. By the time the storm was over, the men on deck needed help from the others to get below deck and into their berths.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLuckily we had a physician and an old mate who knew how to massage feeling back into overwrought limbs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The camaraderie continued as they ate supper, Adam continued to enthrall Joe with tales from his years at sea while Hoss thought on the other aspects \u2013 the loss of life as well as the heartache from being separated from loved ones for so long.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t ya got a gal pinin\u2019 for ya?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere was a girl once, before I decided to join the Navy\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBet she left you because of all those stories about a sailor having a girl in every port?\u201d teased Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d Hoss growled. \u201cYou know that ain\u2019t polite and it ain\u2019t non o your business.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re the one who asked\u2026\u201d Joe squealed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay\u2026 She ended up marrying someone else that I knew. The day I was ready to ask her if she\u2019d wait for me to graduate college before I proposed to her… Let\u2019s just say she wasn\u2019t the girl I thought she was; too self centered and absorbed in what society could do for her. Glad I didn\u2019t make it down the aisle with her. Had I not decided then and there that she wasn\u2019t for me\u2026 being married to her might have driven me to the sea.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss didn\u2019t know what to think, until he saw the somber expression on Adam\u2019s face change to indicate he couldn\u2019t keep the serious look on his face and broke out into a smile. With that, Hoss joined Adam in a belly laugh and Joe started with his cackling laugh and quite soon grabbed at his ribs, begging Hoss and Adam to stop.<\/span><\/p>\n

The distress in his little brother\u2019s voice sobered Hoss readily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe always cackle like that?\u201d Adam inquired and his laughter eased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPretty much,\u201d Hoss answered and then knelt by his brother, \u201cYou okay Shorthanks?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I\u2019m okay,\u201d answered Joe, using his left hand he rubbed his ribs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou settle into your bedroll and get some sleep,\u201d Hoss stated as he stood up and walked to his own bedroll.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

In an effort to spare the horses from being overused on their journey, the men had swapped out which horse they rode among the eight they had, on a daily basis. All three had been pleased that the horse chosen as a pack animal was also good under saddle and bore Hoss\u2019 weight with ease. Adam never inquired about riding Cochise or Chubs, he knew that a man\u2019s primary horse was only ridden by its rider. They prepared to set out for their fourth day together; Hoss on Wanderer, Adam on Skeeter, and Joe on Warrior.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow much farther is it to Virginia City?\u201d inquired Adam as he settled into the saddle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026\u201d began Hoss, \u201cIf\u2019n it were just Joe and me and him not being injured, we\u2019d probably be home sometime early day after tomorrow, as it is, I\u2019d say we got two and a half more days to get home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t wait to sleep in my own bed,\u201d Joe stated as he settled into his saddle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t wait to eat one of Hop Sing\u2019s meals.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat good?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d think you\u2019d died and gone ta heaven after eatin\u2019 one of Hop Sing\u2019s meals,\u201d answered Hoss, who licked his lips at the thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

While riding, Joe told stories of the Ponderosa as well as the meals Hop Sing prepared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle brother\u2026 you hush up about Hop Sing\u2019s cookin\u2019\u2026 It\u2019s makin\u2019 me feel plum puny just thinkin\u2019 how long it\u2019s been since I\u2019ve ate one of his meals.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe couldn\u2019t help himself, he began teasing his brother even more by describing the succulent pot roasts and steaks, the tender chicken breasts, and of course the desserts.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss finally had enough, pulled off his hat and swatted it towards his brother. Joe easily encouraged Warrior to sidestep the impending hat heading his way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou do enjoy taking your life in your own hands\u2026 don\u2019t you?\u201d Adam jovially asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s what little brothers are for,\u201d answered Joe with a broad smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s his lot in life to make my life miserable\u2026\u201d answered Hoss, unable to keep the grin off his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Their companionable silence was broke before they stopped for lunch when Adam commented on Warrior\u2019s behavior, \u201cHe seems to be a little high strung.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI done told him he shoulda left that one at home,\u201d Hoss agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe did good this trip,\u201d Joe defended and petted the neck of the animal, \u201che just needs a few more miles under his belt\u2026 a little more experience. He\u2019s settled down a lot since we headed out from home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you should think about gelding him,\u201d suggested Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy? I think he\u2019d make an excellent stud\u2026 And Pete agrees with me,\u201d answered Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe final decision will be Pa\u2019s,\u201d spoke Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe you actually brought a stallion on a cattle drive\u2026\u201d Adam stated. He\u2019d heard tales of how cattle on long drives could be set off into a stampede at the littlest thing, and a stallion wasn\u2019t exactly a little thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNormally we don\u2019t, but he\u2019s different. He don\u2019t normally act like a stallion,\u201d Joe answered, yet he felt the stallion tensing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s usually and then there\u2019s now. Joe you best\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss didn\u2019t get the chance to complete the rest of his sentence as the horse Joe rode let out an ear-piercing scream, began blowing hard and snorting through his nose; pawing the ground in a display of his agitation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Adam called as he heard the sound of another horse screaming and the stallion ignored his rider\u2019s efforts and charged the riders who broke from the thick of trees about a hundred yards to the left of them, all with their guns drawn.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Joe struggled to regain control of the animal he\u2019d not heard the rifle fire over the scream of his own horse; his brain and body were focused solely on staying in the saddle forcing everything surrounding him to be momentarily blocked out. Realization came to Joe that at the speed the horse was galloping the situation was becoming more dangerous by the second; the repercussions of his horse slamming into or choosing to fight one of the other horses placed him grave peril. And then there was the fact that he realized the riders were firing at them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Kicking his feet from the stirrups, Joe took the only option he felt open to him, he tried to make his body go limp as he gave himself to gravity and it pulled at him, slamming him hard into the ground. Time seemed to stop as he felt the impact and rolled without any control over his body\u2019s movement. When time resumed its normal flow, Joe was only too aware of how difficult it was to breathe, his ribs ached and fire tore at his chest. He failed in his efforts to take deep breaths and only managed to slip in small amounts of air as his vision swirled and ultimately went black.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam dropped the leads to the other horses as they raced to reach Joe, guns drawn and firing at those who fired upon them. Both horses obeyed and slid to a halt as the two men jumped from their saddles and ran the final five yards to where Joe had fallen.<\/span><\/p>\n

Of the four riders who originally charged out from the woods, only two remained upright, on their horses, and still firing. The first man struck by one of their bullets laid ominously still, red crimson soaking through his shirt and his neck bent at an odd angle to his body. Another man, severely limping and blindly firing backwards, was attempting to run back into the woods. A bullet from Adam\u2019s revolver struck the man, entering his chest from under his arm as the man turned to fire \u2013 it was the last time the man would do anything.<\/span><\/p>\n

The remaining riders, their numbers reduced by half, wheeled their horses for the woods; one man taking a pot-luck shot into his thigh, the other man escaped unscathed.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam continued to fire as Hoss dropped his revolver and knelt beside his little brother, turned him over from lying face down, and gathered him into his big arms, \u201cJoe? Joe?\u201d Hoss pleaded. \u201cCome on Joe? Don\u2019t do this to me\u2026\u201d He saw the red seeping from his brother\u2019s chest and staining the shirt the boy wore.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow is he?\u201d Adam asked. He\u2019d returned his revolver to his holster before addressing the distraught man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s bleedin\u2019 Adam\u2026 They shot him\u2026 in the chest\u2026\u201d tears choked Hoss\u2019 voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I help?\u201d Adam sincerely asked, not sure the big man would approve of his taking charge of helping the unconscious youth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss nodded and slightly relaxed his hold on his brother so this man could hopefully help him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave no thought to the shirt Joe wore; it was ruined, a lost cause, several tears resulting from the tumble he\u2019d taken as well as the bullet hole and the growing red stain. He wasted no time in unbuttoning the shirt; he needed to assess how much damage the bullet wound inflicted. With both hands he ripped open the front of the shirt, buttons popping off and striking him and the boy\u2019s brother. He pulled the shirt open to examine the wound.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMove your arm Hoss\u2026 please,\u201d Adam stated as he ripped a sleeve from the ruined shirt to use as wadding to help stop the bleeding. Returning his attention to the boy, he ran his fingers along the length of the bullet wound and was pleased that his fingers couldn\u2019t penetrate into the boy\u2019s body.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gonna be okay, Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gotta be okay\u2026\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Placing a hand to the big man\u2019s shoulder, he waited until Hoss looked at him before repeated, \u201cHe\u2019s going to be okay\u2026 It\u2019s just a bad flesh wound\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFlesh wound?\u201d Hoss repeated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf we were close to a town I\u2019d say he could do with stitches\u2026 The bullet left a fairly deep and lengthy furrow, but that\u2019s it\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gonna be okay?\u201d Hoss fluctuated between tears of worry and tears of happiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI believe he will. But I want to check his ribs again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think he punctured a lung?\u201d Hoss worriedly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not bleeding from his mouth or nose, so I think that\u2019s a good indication so far that he didn\u2019t\u2026 But still, he could have suffered more broken ribs when he landed,\u201d advised Adam as he continued to work on the unconscious youth. \u201cDamn, I wish I knew where we were, that there was a nearby town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

From years of helping to temporarily patch up sailors on the various ships on which he\u2019d served, Adam knew what to do to stabilize the rib cage in order to prevent further damage, but the fact that Joe had suffered an injury to the area beforehand, really worried the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re a few hours ride from the town of Pines,\u201d Hoss stated. \u201cI think they got a doctor\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell you what\u2026 let\u2019s move him over to the trees and out of the sun. When he comes around, we\u2019ll make the decision to get him to town\u2026\u201d With Hoss carrying his little brother by his shoulders and Adam carrying the boy by his knees, the two men made their way to the shade and laid the unconscious youth on the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what I\u2019da done if\u2019n you hadn\u2019t been with us\u2026\u201d Hoss offered, \u201cI\u2019m beholdin\u2019 to ya.\u201d Hoss appeared lost; he knew that he should offer his hand to the man, but this man, this stranger\u2026 just a few short days prior had helped him so much already that he was afraid that offering his hand wouldn\u2019t properly express his feelings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can be beholding to me later, right now were still not out of this yet,\u201d Adam answered as he looked around, their horses and two of the horses ridden by their attackers were milling about, yet Warrior was nowhere to be seen. Adam\u2019s attention was drawn to the two men lying sprawled on the ground; he walked over to one of the men, pulled the bandana from the man\u2019s face, placed his fingertips at the pulse points, and waited. He repeated the process with the second man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey dead?\u201d Hoss asked as he came up behind Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pulling the bandana down from the second man\u2019s face Adam asked, \u201cYou know him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s one a the drovers we hired before we headed out, him and\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not one of your regular hands?\u201d Adam asked as Hoss walked away from him and the dead man; to look at the other man\u2019s face and said, \u201cHim too. Nah, we hired them two just for this drive\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t mean to pry, but it\u2019s evident that these two probably set out to ambush you for the money you received from the herds you delivered.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey wasted their lives then\u2026 I didn\u2019t want to carry it all and neither did Joe, even though they were a bank draft. Joe suggested we send it to Pa; I mailed the bank drafts home before we left San Francisco.\u201d Looking between the two dead men, \u201cWhat should we do with their bodies?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProbably should take them to Pines, turn them over to the law.\u201d Rising to his feet, Adam continued, \u201cWell, I\u2019ll go round up the horses, you should get back to Joe\u2026 for when he wakes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The bodies of the two dead men were covered and draped over their horses by the time Joe woke; startling to sit up and grabbed his ribs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy there, Joe,\u201d Adam stated as he was nearest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOw!\u201d Joe exclaimed and clinched his fists. \u201cThat hurts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI should say so!\u201d Hoss barked. \u201cDagnabbit Joe! Ya done scared a lifetime off me!\u201d Hoss\u2019 gruffness was only because he\u2019d been terrified for his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d Joe asked as he looked to the two men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour horse had ideas other than minding you,\u201d answered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, where\u2019s my clothes?\u201d Joe asked when he realized he wasn\u2019t wearing his shirt, and lifted the cover to make sure he hadn\u2019t been stripped fully, again. He exhaled when he saw he still wore his pants.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa ruined your shirt fallin\u2019 from your horse and gettin\u2019 shot,\u201d Hoss explained as he held out a cup of coffee to his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSHOT?!\u201d yelped Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust a deep graze, thankfully,\u201d Adam stated as he reached towards the young man in an effort to calm him. \u201cTake it easy or you\u2019ll likely break it open again and start bleeding.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m shot?\u201d Joe pulled at his shirt tied around his chest, he began rapidly breathing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam restrained his hands. \u201cJoe listen to me, take deep breaths.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m shot!\u201d Joe exclaimed his eyes wide with fright. Adam and Hoss heard the panic in his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Holding both the boy\u2019s hands in one hand and cupping his other hand under the boy\u2019s chin, Adam forced Joe to look at him. \u201cJoe, look at me, take a deep breath and hold it.\u201d As an example, Adam took a deep breath and held it. After a slow count of five he exhaled. \u201cAgain.\u201d Adam repeated the breathing exercise several more times until Joe sufficiently calmed. \u201cYou okay buddy?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss was thankful for Adam\u2019s help, he didn\u2019t know if he\u2019d of been able to do all that Adam was doing had the man not been present.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded, unable to trust his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were shot, but it\u2019s just a flesh wound, but it is deep\u2026 So, you\u2019ll need to keep still, that way you won\u2019t break it open.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be okay?\u201d Joe plaintively asked and looked to his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Having set the cup of coffee aside, Hoss sat down beside Joe and wrapped his big arms around his slim brother and tried hard to keep his own tears from falling. \u201cYou\u2019re gonna be okay little brother. You\u2019re gonna be okay.\u201d Joe reached up and grabbed hold of his bothers arms; his head inclined towards his brother\u2019s chest, his breath catching as he tried to stop crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Night had fallen over the camp and Adam had to smile at his companions; the big man was worried about his sibling, openly carrying the hurt he felt regarding what had happened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I ask you something?\u201d Adam asked as Hoss sat on his bedroll, close to his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t mean for this to sound condescending, but does he always act before he thinks?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 face blanked before the start of a smile turned into a full smile and the man laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s my baby brother, has ever since he learned to crawl. Would drive his momma crazy; he\u2019d see somethin\u2019 or want to do somethin\u2019 and off he\u2019d go. Thanks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor what?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor makin\u2019 me smile and feel better.\u00a0 Just rememberin\u2019 him and all the shenanigans he\u2019s pulled. I\u2019ll just add this one to the list.\u201d Changing the subject Hoss asked, \u201cSo what do you plan to do when we get to Virginia City?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot exactly sure. I\u2019ll probably use it as a base of operations; I\u2019ll send for my trunk and start exploring.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll by yourself? Don\u2019tcha think that\u2019s kind a dangerous\u2026. I mean, you\u2019re not of the land, you bein\u2019 a sailor and all\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy father had a dream and set out on his own, he was a sailor too.\u201d Adam felt that his father\u2019s decision to head west on his own was as sound as his own.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I got to thinkin\u2019, I\u2019m due some vacation time, maybe Pa would let me show you around\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019ll have you doing my chores,\u201d Joe spoke from within his bedroll.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re awake again?\u201d Hoss turned his attention to his brother. \u201cHow do you feel?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBetter, but\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut what Joseph?!\u201d Hoss demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat first step sure was a doozy,\u201d Joe giggled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss picked up his big hat and swatted at his brother. “Don\u2019t you ever do that again!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo worse than coming off a bronc,\u201d Jose answered as he sat up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam left his bedroll and fixed a cup of coffee for Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Joe gratefully accepted the brew and sipped from the cup.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you hungry, Shortshanks?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I feel like I could eat you,\u201d Joe giggled again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood to see your spirits weren\u2019t bruised,\u201d Adam stated as he sat before the fire and stirred the pot of beans. After fixing a plate, he walked over and handed it to the boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took a bite and asked in surprise, \u201cHey, what\u2019s this in with the beans?\u201d He\u2019d forked something and held it up to examine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got a rabbit, Adam told me about addin\u2019 some of the cooked meat to the beans, said it would be better for you that way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTaste\u2019s good\u2026 better than plain beans any day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With Joe occupied eating, Hoss returned to the topic of discussion, \u201cSo, whata ya think about me showin\u2019 you around?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure your father would appreciate you taking time off on account of me\u2026\u201d Adam answered. \u201cThough I wouldn\u2019t mind learning about this country, that\u2019s why I\u2019m here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we hire you on?\u201d asked Joe. \u201cI mean that way, Hoss or I wouldn\u2019t exactly be taking time away from our work, and you\u2019d still get shown around\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Adam\u2019s got a job,\u201d Hoss offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cActually, right now I don\u2019t,\u201d Adam answered. \u201cI\u2019m on leave. Do you think your father would hire me on?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, you\u2019re pretty green, but not as bad as a tin horn,\u201d answered Hoss with a little teasing in his tone of voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I rescued him, twice\u2026 That\u2019s got to count for something?\u201d Adam jested back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe let out a cackle and grabbed his ribs, Hoff guffed and the last vestiges of his worry disappeared.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Morning had already broken over the camp before Joe woke to find Hoss and Adam moving about, making preparations to head out. After they\u2019d ate breakfast and cleaned up their camp, they helped Joe to his feet and towards the horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026 Where\u2019s Warrior?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Joe, he done took off yesterday,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI looked for him, but between the gunfire and taking care of you, too much time had lapsed,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat means my saddle\u2026 Well, I can ride Cochise\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo you ain\u2019t,\u201d barked Hoss. “You\u2019re gonna ride in front a me until we get to Pines.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve ridden Cochise bareback tons of times\u2026\u201d Joe argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot with those ribs and that bullet graze. You\u2019re gonna sit in front of me and that\u2019s the last of it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere,\u201d Adam handed Joe one of his shirts, \u201cThis should fit you better than one of Hoss\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Within ten minutes, they were organized; Joe and Hoss rode the packhorse, who\u2019d had several days without being ridden, while Adam rode his horse Sport. During the morning, Adam had rigged up a system for the horses they were going to lead, including the two with the dead bodies draped over them.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Entering Pines, the riders drew stares from the citizens of the town, including the sheriff.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mind explaining yourselves?\u201d the man asked, leaving no doubt he expected an answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three saw a burly man step from the boardwalk on an interception course. The man stood at least six foot, two, and was well fleshed with muscle. His black hat matched the black of his handlebar mustache that accentuated his features.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSheriff, we\u2019ll explain everythin\u2019, if you\u2019ll allow your doctor ta look at my brother first\u2026 He got shot yesterday when these two varmints,\u201d Hoss pointed his thumb over his shoulder, \u201cand two others ambushed us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had swallowed his pride long before they entered the town and allowed the pain from his injuries to show through his slumped posture and the grimace he couldn\u2019t keep from his face at each step the horse took.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShot, you say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, we had no choice but to return fire. It was a pure case of self defense,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss slipped from the horse and extended his arms to help his brother down from the saddle. Joe grunted with pain as his feet his hit the ground, almost causing his knees to buckle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI gotcha little brother,\u201d Hoss stated as he assisted Joe across the boardwalk and into the doctor\u2019s office.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

In the waiting room, the sheriff appeared and asked if there was an update on the young man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet, Doc\u2019s still in there with him,\u201d Hoss worriedly answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

The sheriff then redirected his questioning to those concerning the two bodies he\u2019d already presented to the town\u2019s undertaker. When the big man identified himself as Hoss Cartwright, the sheriff took note; he\u2019d heard the name and the reputation of the family from over in Virginia City was strong.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou one of those Ponderosa Cartwrights?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir. Our pa owns the ranch,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you\u2026”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe name\u2019s Adam Cartwright, but I\u2019m not related. Just happen to have the same surname.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you\u2019re riding with them because?\u201d there Sheriff asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I didn\u2019t heed my own advice in San Francisco and ended up preventing the boy in there from being Shanghaied. And I was heading this general vicinity, so when they offered to be my guides\u2026 I agreed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a pleasure to meet you, just unfortunate it\u2019s under these circumstances. My name\u2019s Gordon Turkle, and as you can tell by my badge, I\u2019m the sheriff here in Pines. You care to tell me the rest of the story? You said there were four who ambushed you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The sheriff diligently listened and took notes for his report as Adam and Hoss alternately told their tale. When they\u2019d concluded he asked, \u201cYou know who the other two might be?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head no, as Hoss answered, \u201cNot a clue.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne was shot\u2026 I think I struck him in the thigh,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, not a whole lot to go on, but I thank you for your time and the information. I hope your brother recovers\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d replied Hoss as the sheriff left the waiting room.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss continued to watch between the clock and the closed door as the time slowly passed. Half an hour later, Joe slept on the examination table, having been sedated so the doctor could stitch the bullet graze and manipulate his broken ribs back into position and bind the young man\u2019s torso. The door opened and the doctor stepped into the waiting room in his clinic.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoc?\u201d Hoss asked as he stood, inadvertently dropping his hat at his feet. \u201cHow\u2019s Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll sleep the rest of the night. He\u2019s one lucky young man.\u201d Turning to Adam he stated, \u201cI presume you\u2019re the one who bound his ribs?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis time, but they were broken before we left San Francisco.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you hadn\u2019t followed up by doing what you did, he\u2019d of punctured a lung for sure.\u201d Turning to Hoss he said, \u201cAnd for you insisting that he ride in front of you, that kept him from doing any more damage to the ribs while getting him here. That was very smart on your part. I\u2019ve seen too many drovers ride in\u2026\u201d The man quieted as the memories were quite unpleasant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I see him?\u201d Hoss plaintively asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor a moment\u2026 He won\u2019t know you\u2019re there. I sedated him so I could deeply clean and suture the bullet wound. I\u2019ll let you see him for a few minutes and then you and your friend should go get a room at the hotel and grab a good meal.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam called to Hoss as the large man walked to the door, \u201cI\u2019ll go get us two rooms at the hotel\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

From a block away the doctor saw the large man and his companion sitting on the bench in front of his clinic, the clock in the center of town began to strike six o\u2019clock that morning. Hoss stood up and offered to take the tray bearing the boy\u2019s breakfast.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019m sure he\u2019s quite hungry. He hadn\u2019t started to rouse when I examined him earlier.\u201d The doctor answered as he opened the door and proceeded to the room where Joe lay. \u201cYou\u2019ll be happy to know there\u2019s no sign of infection.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was beginning to wake and his eyes brightened when Hoss walked into the room carrying the tray. \u201cI hope you got something on there for me, I\u2019m starved.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is compliments of the doctor,\u201d answered Adam as Hoss set the tray aside and helped his brother sit up in bed, before placing the tray on Joe\u2019s lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Joe ate the three casually chatted about everything that happened. Joe saw the doctor first, \u201cHey Doc?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning,\u201d the doctor answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen can I go home?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 How do you feel?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel fine,\u201d answered Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou always answer \u2018you\u2019re fine\u2019, Shortshanks,\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t feel fine yesterday,\u201d Joe answered indignantly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you sure didn\u2019t. But tell the truth, if Pa were standing here\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHands on his hips?\u201d Joe queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHands on his hips,\u201d Hoss confirmed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd having \u2018that\u2019 look on his face?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, having \u2018that\u2019 look on his face\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d tell him I\u2019ll take it real easy just to make sure I continue to be fine.\u201d Joe gave Hoss his best \u2018I\u2019ll behave\u2019 expression and neither Hoss nor Adam could keep a straight face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you promise me to take it easy, you can head on home today. I\u2019ll send a note to your physician explaining my diagnosis and what I\u2019ve done.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if we\u2019re going to head out, we need to purchase someone a saddle,\u201d Adam suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHank Highfield is a good leatherworker and he has several saddles in his shop. Generally he does custom orders, but I\u2019m sure he might have some traded in saddles to fit the boy. Hank\u2019s two doors the other side of the livery,\u201d the doctor answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess that Warrior took off with my saddle bags too?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd your clothes. I\u2019ll run by the mercantile and see if they have some new clothes for you little brother,\u201d Hoss stated as he patted Joe on the thigh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, if they got black or a dark navy shirt\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll get what they got,\u201d answered Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As Adam and Hoss left the medical clinic they encountered the sheriff.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hoped to see you this morning. I sent a wire out to some of the towns around here to be on the lookout for someone with a gunshot wound to the leg. So far nothing\u2026 And as for the two men, neither had identification on them; not sure anything will come of sending their descriptions out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you\u2019ve tried, Sheriff. That\u2019s all you can do,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

An hour later, the doctor was satisfied that between the two men, his young patient would arrive safely home. He and the sheriff waved goodbye to the men as they turned their horses from town.<\/span><\/p>\n

Revelation\u2026 Chapter 3 \u2013 What\u2019s the Worst that Could Happen?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The remainder of their trip to Virginia City was uneventful. As they entered town that late afternoon, Hoss pointed out the International House Hotel farther down the main street to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll give ya a couple a days to settle in and get your land legs back,\u201d Hoss stated. \u201cAnd talk to Pa about maybe hirin\u2019 ya. Even if ya don\u2019t work out as a ranch hand, I\u2019m sure Pa would love to talk to ya about the time ya spent at sea\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, oh, and by the way\u2026 So I don\u2019t cause too much trouble for you, I\u2019m going to check into the hotel using my middle name; I\u2019ll register as Adam Stoddard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to do that,\u201d Joe announced. Even though they had taken it slow and easy, the toll the trip had taken on his body was quite evident.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want too, it\u2019ll be easier that way, at least it\u2019ll keep people from being too curious about another Cartwright here about and causing your father untold grief, people are bound to speculate.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you change your name if our name was Carter or Williams?\u201d Joe wouldn\u2019t let it drop.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProbably not, but it\u2019s my decision.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Joe, he\u2019s got that same way a tellin\u2019 people to drop it as Pa has, and you know you cain\u2019t beat Pa. Sides, Pa\u2019s gonna have my hide when I get ya home anyhow.\u201d Waving goodbye to Adam, Hoss voiced, \u201cWhy couldn\u2019t I have an older brother to take care of all the trouble you get in to?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d trade places with you in a heartbeat to be the oldest,\u201d Joe offered and tried to sound more jovial than he felt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine older brother, then guide your pony over there and step right on in to Doc Martin\u2019s and let him check you out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou coming with me?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re old enough to go on your own, sides I want to see if any of the hands are in town and have one of them take the horses back to the ranch.\u201d Hoss saw the last of the sparkle leave Joe\u2019s eyes and knew there was more to Joe\u2019s request than appeared on the surface. \u201cAll right, let me help ya get down and inside. It\u2019ll take Doc a while to examine you and re-wrap those ribs. And I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll want to thoroughly examine them stitches.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam Stoddard had dropped his gear within his hotel room and was just leaving the establishment when he saw two men riding from town leading Skeeter, Wanderer, and Nomad. Stepping from the boardwalk, he pulled the reins for his two horses from around the hitching rail and led the animals to the livery. Once the animals were in their stalls, from his youthful and adolescent days in Boston, Adam knew well enough about thoroughly grooming his horses before turning in for the night. Half an hour later, Adam saw a stout man running his buckskin horse through the middle of the street, with little consideration given to others his actions threatened to run down. His eyes followed the man as he pulled his horse to a stop in front of the physician\u2019s office.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMust be Hoss and Joe\u2019s\u2026 Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Using the word to express the relationship from a son to his father was foreign to Adam. Even though his grandfather had raised him, most of his friends used \u2018father\u2019 or \u2018dad\u2019 as a way of addressing their paternal parent. He continued to walk back to the hotel and accepted a seat at one of the tables in the dining room. Once he\u2019d placed his order, he saw a distinguished man enter the hotel lobby and stop at the front counter. The man turned around when the manager pointed towards the dining room, Adam saw he was wearing the badge of a sheriff on his vest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEvening,\u201d the sheriff greeted as he stopped across the table from Adam. \u201cI\u2019m Sheriff Roy Coffee.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood evening. I\u2019m Adam Stoddard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou rode in with Hoss and Little Joe Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean it\u2019s not just his family who calls him Little Joe?\u201d Adam grinned. He wasn\u2019t too certain how well that went over with the young man he\u2019d accompanied back from San Francisco.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnybody who\u2019s a friend of the family does. Are you a friend?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you could call me that. I met Joe, and Hoss, in San Francisco and seeing as how I was planning to travel in this general direction, they agreed to be my guides.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThem two, your guides? You musta been pretty desperate to get here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not desperate, just allowing them to repay a favor,\u201d Adam offered. \u201cIf you\u2019d like, please\u2026 have a seat and we can talk more comfortably. Give the people around here a little less to gossip about. They\u2019re probably already having a field day with Hoss taking Joe to the doctor\u2019s.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy pulled out a chair and sat down; he motioned for Edith, the waitress, to bring him a cup of coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpeaking of Joe and the doctor, those two don\u2019t exactly go together. You know what happened?\u201d Roy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you ask them?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, once their Pa is satisfied that Joe\u2019s no worse for wear. Now\u2026 will you answer my question?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Accepting a refill for his own cup of coffee Adam proceeded to tell the lawman of his first encounter with Joe, and later his encounter with Hoss, only at that time he didn\u2019t realize the big man was related to the smaller man. He told of the events with the San Francisco police fearing he was a kidnapper, but later with Joe to corroborate, they left him alone. Next, Adam told of the attack and the shooting of Joe and their stay in Pines.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSHOT?!\u201d exclaimed Roy and the quickly quieted and looked around to see who might be listening.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a serious flesh wound, took several stitches to properly close, but that\u2019s all. And he also reinjured his ribs when he fell from his horse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFell from his horse?\u201d Roy laughed. \u201cThat\u2019s even more words that don\u2019t naturally go together\u2026 Joe\u2019s a natural, has been since the first day his Pa put him up on a horse. Even after seeing his momma thrown and killed\u2026 He\u2019s never been scared a day in his life when it comes to horses.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI kinda get that feeling too. Sheriff\u2026 Coffee. Look, I\u2019m not meaning any trouble, just wanting to look around the territory and get to know what drew my father to travel out here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou got family here abouts?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 They\u2026 He was killed on his travels west. My late grandfather raised me from an infant.\u201d Adam hesitated, the reasons for his travels were his own, but he had already told Hoss and Joe more than he normally would have. He thought it funny now that he looked back on the past week. And if this lawman was a much a friend to the Cartwrights as it appeared, he knew he had better give a little more information to satisfy the man\u2019s instincts. \u201cNot exactly sure why but\u2026 ever since before I set sail around Cape Horn, I\u2019ve had, as Hoss would say, a hankerin\u2019 to explore the land; give up the sea for a while.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou a sailor?\u201d Roy inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOn leave\u2026 Using some of my long-earned vacation time; being single and having no family, my time\u2019s accumulated.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 If you need any help, just ask around for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded and offered his thanks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy stood from the table, flipped a couple of coins onto the checkered cloth and left the room. A few minutes later, the waitress delivered a plate with Adam\u2019s supper, piping hot.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam returned to his hotel room, and pulled out the small journal he kept separate from his logs as a naval officer. He wasn\u2019t as faithful in his writings as he should be as his grandfather had always encouraged, but as he sat there, he remembered one night when he was much younger and he wrote of what happened at school and what happened when he returned home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGrandfather?\u201d eleven year old Adam asked of Abel Stoddard.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adam.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you\u2019re upset about my actions at school today,\u201d Adam replied as he stood ramrod straight directly in front the man who had raised him his whole life.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like to tell me what the fight was about?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould I like to\u2026 No. But I know your question did not intend to ask my preference,\u201d the boy answered. It took all of Abel Stoddard\u2019s control not to smile at his young grandson. \u201cRadolph called me a bastard\u2026 Said I wasn\u2019t fit to go to school with him or his friends.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know why you fought Randolph?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause of what he called me. I\u2019m not,\u201d Adam\u2019s anger showed. \u201cI had two parents and they were married and they loved each other, and because of their love, I was born.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, if you know that, then why did you start the fight?\u201d Abel leaned back in his overstuffed chair, hands and fingers folded to give the impression of a church steeple and roof.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRandolph said you made up the story of about my father so that you could protect your daughter\u2019s reputation. He said my mother\u2026\u201d the young boy hesitated, he knew if he used the word Randolph had used, it would earn him his mouth being washing out with lye soap.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat else did he say?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe said she was free with her favors to any sailor who came to port.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know what he implied?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, and that\u2019s why I punched him.\u201d Adam\u2019s fisted hand punched into his open hand to show he still was mad.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do you know the punishment for fighting?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, I\u2019ve been expelled from school for a week.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI believe you\u2019re going to have a little \u2018necessary talk\u2019 with me that doesn\u2019t involve any talking.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou do know how much it upsets me to have to punish you\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, I know and I\u2019m sorry that you have to punish me.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sorry that you fought Randolph?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir. I fought for my mother\u2019s honor and the memory of my father.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cVery well, drop them and bend over.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

After ten hard swats with his hand, Abel Stoddard told his grandson to get dressed and go to his room until Adelaide called him for supper.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir,\u201d Adam answered. He\u2019d accepted his punishment without tears or crying out. He knew before he threw the first punch that his actions would not be approved by his grandfather, but for the love he held for his parents, he saw no other recourse.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

That night at supper the discussion continued, only it was Adam who wanted to know more.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGrandfather, why would Randolph say that about my mother?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, especially since his father once sought your mother\u2019s hand\u2026\u201d Abel answered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother and Jonathan grew up together, though his parents were from a more influential family\u2026 I could tell as they began their youthful years that he carried more than just a boyhood crush on Elizabeth.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hired on a new first officer, a young man who had come up through the ranks of the merchant fleet\u2026 He was highly respected\u2026 and then I brought him home for supper after a long journey. After we ate and talked of the voyage I could tell Elizabeth had feelings for the young man. Each time, before I left to set sail, Elizabeth would always ask me to be sure to bring Mr. Cartwright home\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t exactly remember but after one voyage, your father was detained at the harbor master\u2019s\u2026 I arrived home to find Elizabeth and Jonathan arguing, I could hear it before I opened the door.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat loud, huh?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Abel nodded. \u201cJonathan had informed Elizabeth that he was going to ask for my permission to ask her to marry him\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I thought\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t interrupt\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir,\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother argued that she was not in love with Jonathan, that they had only been friends and at no time had she ever given any thought to marrying him. It left the man broken-hearted, but I loved my daughter and I could not nor would I bless such a union.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid Pa ever know?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat was between him and your mother, but later that night, after supper, your father asked me if I would give my blessing for him to ask for my daughter\u2019s hand in marriage.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWow!\u201d Adam stated as he sat listening. \u201cBut that still doesn\u2019t explain why Randolph said those things about my mother\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe may never know\u2026 Just you remember that your parents loved each other and loved you.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEven though my father left me here\u2026\u201d Adam whispered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess it\u2019s a good thing he did, otherwise\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOtherwise what, son?\u201d Abel tenderly inquired.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Young Adam couldn\u2019t stop his tears from falling and he walked over to his grandfather, sat on his lap and wrapped his arms around the old man\u2019s neck, \u201cOtherwise, I\u2019d of died too.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam\u2026 How\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard you and Mr. Pryce\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Abel wrapped his arms tighter around his grandson and cried, \u201cI didn\u2019t know how to tell you\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI miss him, Grandfather\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you do, but I\u2019m thankful he loved you enough to leave you here.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss heard the boot steps\u00a0 sounding on the boardwalk and quickly stood to his feet, instinctively he knew who those boots belonged to.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?!\u201d Ben called as he entered the doctor\u2019s office. \u201cI saw Murphy and Crawley on the way into town. They said you had Little Joe here. What happened to Joseph?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay Pa,\u201d Joe stated as he stepped through the opening door from the examination room while buttoning his shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Worried, Ben approached his youngest, carefully evaluating his son\u2019s face and movements.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe experienced some trouble coming home; two of the men we hired to help us drive the herd joined up with two others and tried to rob us,\u201d Joe answered, pulling himself up straighter in an attempt to allay his father\u2019s fears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, it coulda been a lot worse, but the good news is that Joe\u2019s gonna be alright. Right Doc?\u201d Hoss added quickly when he saw Doctor Martin step into the waiting area and walked to his friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, his ribs will take a few weeks to thoroughly heal, and Joe knows that until they are FULLY HEALED he\u2019s not to ride a bronc or do anything that would aggravate his condition. As for the bullet wound\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBullet?!\u201d Ben gasped and narrowed the distance between him and his youngest son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s only a graze, a deep graze, but a graze none the less. He\u2019s kept it clean so far and as long as he keeps it clean, I don\u2019t think you need to worry about any infection. Probably in a week he can come back and I\u2019ll remove the stitches.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, are you okay?\u201d Ben worriedly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, Pa\u2026 honest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat of those who ambushed you?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to know that too\u2026\u201d added Sheriff Roy Coffee as he entered the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTwo of them were killed and we took their bodies to Pines and left them with Sheriff Turkle,\u201d Hoss explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the other two?\u201d Roy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey got away\u2026 Between seeing Joe go down and\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what?\u201d Ben urged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Joe done lost Warrior\u2026\u201d Hoss explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd my saddle. Pa, he was doing so good too. All the way to Sacramento and on to the Persidio.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Presidio,\u201d Ben corrected.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took no heed of the correction, \u201cWarrior was really good, he did everything I asked of him,\u201d Joe pleaded when he recognized the expression on his Pa\u2019s face that stated he had warned Joe that something would happen if he were to insist on taking the stallion on the trail. \u201cPa, I don\u2019t know what set him off\u2026 The three of us were riding along\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe three of you\u2026\u201d Ben answered, confused as to who else rode with his sons, all their other hands had already returned to the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s another thing Pa, but I think Joe should finish his story,\u201d Hoss made sure the subject stayed on Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, go on\u2026\u201d Ben stated as he rested his hip against Doc Martin\u2019s desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I think Little Joe should sit down. He\u2019s fairly exhausted from his injuries and the return home,\u201d Doc Martin stated as he guided Joe to a chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe were just riding along, and Warrior started getting a little agitated\u2026 He wouldn\u2019t listen to me\u2026 Next thing I know, he\u2019s bolting, with me still in the saddle, and then these four riders come racing out of the trees, shooting. I felt the situation getting really dangerous and I sort of \u2018fell\u2019 from Warrior. I figured it would be better to do that, than to stay in the saddle and worry about getting between him and one of the other horses, whichever one he was so angry about.\u201d Joe became remorseful at the loss of a promising horse as well as his gear and saddlebags. \u201cI\u2019m really sorry Pa. I thought he was up to the task\u2026 He did such a good job up to that point.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Knowing the situation could have been totally prevented, had Joe listened to him, Ben realized that Joe would be beating himself up over the loss far longer than Ben could. \u201cSon, what matters is that you\u2019re going to be okay.\u201d Ben looked to Paul who nodded in agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I suggest you take these two to the hotel for a good meal, and then take this one,\u201d Paul stood behind Joe and placed both hands on the boy\u2019s shoulders and gave him a gentle squeeze, \u201cstraight home and put him to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we can introduce Adam to Pa,\u201d Hoss stated as he fell in beside his brother to walk to the hotel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s this Adam?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I met him earlier and I think you\u2019ll find his story mighty interesting, at least where these two are involved,\u201d Sheriff Coffee answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026 since he was plannin\u2019 to travel this way\u2026 We kinda asked him to come along\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do I get the feeling there\u2019s an \u2018and\u2019 coming,\u201d Ben stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s on leave, and wantin\u2019 to see the territory. And Joe done told him about the Ponderosa. I thought maybe we could hire him on and show him around\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat kind of experience does he have that we could use on the ranch?\u201d Ben asked as he looked from one son to the other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s good with horses, even though he\u2019s spent the past six years at sea,\u201d Joe offered, he prayed Hoss wouldn\u2019t say that they really owed it to Adam since he\u2019d saved Joe\u2019s life, twice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt sea? And just what was he doing at sea?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a lieutenant in the navy. His ship laid over in San Francisco before he took his leave. Pa, they sailed around Cape Horn. Did you ever sail around the Horn,\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard plenty of \u2018ands\u2019, but I\u2019ve yet to hear the real reason behind this sudden impulse to hire a tin horn.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, he ain\u2019t a tin horn,\u201d Hoss answered. \u201cHe was the first officer on\u2026 Joe what was the name of his ship?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Wanderer II, said it was named after a merchant ship that was lost a number of years back. Pa\u2026 you served on a ship named the Wanderer, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat was a long, long time ago, son. Well, I know the two of you will get around to telling me what I want to know\u2026 eventually, and to try to force it out of you\u2026 you\u2019ll just keep changing the subject.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The three Cartwrights entered the hotel and the two youngest were disappointed when they didn\u2019t see Adam in the restaurant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe he already turned in for the night,\u201d suggested Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOr maybe he\u2019s at the Bucket of Blood,\u201d Joe offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if he is, YOU young man, are not going anywhere near that saloon, nor are you Hoss. We\u2019re going to follow Paul\u2019s orders\u2026 to the letter. Once this Adam has settled into town, maybe Friday evening you can invite him to join us for supper. I presume that your \u2018complete story\u2019 can wait until then\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe exchanged looks of relief at receiving a reprieve from any further interrogation. Both brothers were thankful for the turn of events, yet Joe knew his stay of execution was only temporary.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As supper concluded, Ben regretfully mentioned the money for the cattle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m thankful both of you boys are alright, or at least will be alright.\u201d He looked to Joe. \u201cI just wish we hadn\u2019t lost that money. We could really use it to pay for the new machinery we\u2019re going to need to get the Pannington Mine in operation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, we didn\u2019t lose the money,\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t? But you said\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI said we were attacked and thought it was because of the money, but I didn\u2019t say they got the money\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs it still in your saddle bag?\u201d Ben inquired, worried that the money was where anyone could get it out on the street.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 Shortshanks and I didn\u2019t want to carry that much money, even if it were a bank draft. Ain\u2019t you got the mail, Pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was coming into town to pick up the mail when Crawley told me about Joe\u2026 I never made it to the post office\u2026 Why do you ask, son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suggested we mail the bank drafts to you before we left San Francisco,\u201d Joe offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mailed\u2026 You suggested? Son, that was right smart thinking on your part,\u201d Ben congratulated his youngest, whose chest swelled until he felt the tug of the stitches and the restraint of the bandage around his ribs.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam Stoddard enjoyed strolling around Virginia City the following morning and compared the growing boomtown to the various ports he had visited over the years, as well as his hometown. Change the miners for wharf laborers or cowboys for sailors and there really wasn\u2019t much difference\u2026 other than the smell; he missed the unique smell that was the sea. Ultimately the men were drawn to the saloons of an evening to commiserate their lives or to play poker and get rousing drunk in their fun.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the time since he\u2019d left San Francisco he came to realize how different his life was from those who lived in the ever-growing frontier towns, just like Virginia City. He felt as though his life had a purpose for as long as he could remember, he had been destined as a leader, but here\u2026 the majority of the people he passed, seem to just\u2026 exist.<\/span><\/p>\n

Growing up in Boston there had been churches or synagogues of the various faiths, but this town only had one church. Many of the stores in Boston were specialized for men, women, or children, or for the different occupations of life, sailors, laborers, the elite of society, and then there were the pantry stores full of food stock. But here, one store tried to be everything to everybody.<\/span><\/p>\n

By mid-afternoon he had chosen a vacant table in the Bucket of Blood and was casually enjoying sipping a beer, watching a few men sitting around one of the other tables playing a friendly game of poker. He listened as the men bantered about the weather, cattle, or the latest gossip. Adam smiled; some men were just as good at dragging out the latest \u2018travesty\u2019 as any woman.<\/span><\/p>\n

Interspersed within the conversation he also heard the men talk about the Cartwrights and what might have happened to the youngest boy, this time. The men happily joked about some of the more memorable tomfoolery that Little Joe had found himself immersed within.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you gotta admit, Old Man Cartwright raised him and his brother right. Ain\u2019t no doubt about it. When it really comes down to helping those in need, you can count on the Cartwrights to step in to help, all they have to do is hear about something and they\u2019re there, offering a hand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHandouts\u2026 their throw-offs is more like it,\u201d another snidely replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot throw-offs, maybe the fact the little one ain\u2019t never gonna be as big as his brother, so anything Hoss outgrows they give to others. But it don\u2019t bother them about getting dirt under their fingernails or on their clothes, they\u2019re right there in the thick of it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Old Man Cartwright don\u2019t let neither of them slack, either. They pull their weight, even though that little one ain\u2019t got much weight behind him.\u201d The men around the table snickered at the comment. \u201cBut you find anyone else here who\u2019ll says they put out more than Joe Cartwright and I\u2019ll show you a bold-faced liar. He always puts out one hundred and twenty percent; gotta show everyone he\u2019s just as good as his brother and his pa, even as short and scrawny as he is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Picking up the mug, Adam drank the last of his beer before he tossed a few more coins on the table top and left. His way of carrying himself set him apart from most travelers who passed through town, and the men around the table took note of his bearings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBet you that man\u2019s been in the army,\u201d one of the men commented. \u201cAn officer I bet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah? Ain\u2019t that the man who came in with the Cartwright boys yesterday?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo tell,\u201d another encouraged and so the men continued talking of anything and everything.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam walked to the telegraph office where he sent a wire back to the Roehl\u2019s in San Francisco.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave settled in Virginia City, Nevada. Please forward trunk at earliest convenience, care of the International House Hotel.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thank you,<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam strolled along the main street and tipped the brim of his hat at passing several young women carrying brown paper packages tied with cotton strings. He continued on until he passed a young couple looking into the window of the jewelry and watch shop.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the one,\u201d the young man said as he wrapped his arm around the woman\u2019s shoulder and pointed into the window.<\/span><\/p>\n

The woman squealed in delight.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

At reaching the livery, Adam saddled Sport and headed out, telling the liveryman he\u2019d be back in a few hours. As he rode, Adam was even more impressed with the dramatic scenery, the tall pine trees, the expanse of land, and ultimately he came to the shores of Lake Tahoe. Stepping down, Adam remembered back to Joe\u2019s comment about a girl in every port and his mind wondered to MaryBeth.\u00a0 Taking a seat and lying back into the rich green grass overlooking the lake, he felt awash with nature as the gentle breeze blew across his face. He smiled as he remembered their many outings in and around Boston, the dances, the dinners, and the one fateful trip where they visited Old Harbor.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had been nervous all day long and it extended to their carriage ride that evening.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you know, during the Siege of Boston, at the start of the American Revolution ‘Castle William’ served as the main base of military operations for the British?\u201d Adam asked as he attempted to make small talk. \u201cThe leaders of the Massachusetts royal administration took refuge there with their families, as did some prominent loyalists. After the March 17, 1776 British Evacuation of Boston, Castle William was destroyed a few days later on March 20, 1776. The fort that currently stands out there today, helped protect Boston from British attack during the War of 1812.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, this is all well and good, but I did not agree to go out with you this evening for a history lesson.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I didn\u2019t mean to bore you.\u201d Adam hadn\u2019t heard her use that disparaging tone of voice before and halted the horse he was driving having arrived at their destination for a picnic.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you never bore me, but there are better things we can do other than drone on about the past,\u201d though her tone of voice was lighter, he still heard the undercurrent.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut MaryBeth, the past is important\u2026\u201d Adam assisted MaryBeth down from the carriage.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought we were going to talk about our future\u2026\u201d MaryBeth stated as she accepted the blanket Adam produced from behind the seat in the carriage and pulled out the picnic basket.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOur future\u2026\u201d Adam gulped, he hoped that later he would have the courage to continue.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I think it\u2019s about time we seriously started talking about our future\u2026 We\u2019ve been seeing each other regularly for some time now\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I still have one final year of college to finish\u2026 This current year ends in two weeks, and\u2026\u201d Adam stated, wanting a few more moments as he tried to summon up the courage.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCollege. Hmpf\u2026 Adam you know papa would give you a job in his newspaper shop\u2026 As good a writer as you are\u2026 Who needs to finish college?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t wish to be a writer or a newspaperman\u2026\u201d Adam stated as he sat down and allowed MaryBeth to set out the food.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we can talk about that later, you don\u2019t have to decide today\u2026\u201d MaryBeth answered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

As they ate, the two chatted about what they had done since their last outing, the week before. When they were finished eating, Adam walked out to the water\u2019s edge. A few moments later, he sensed MaryBeth at his side, her left arm wrapped around his back while her right hand began to toy with the buttons on the front of his shirt. Adam inhaled deeply as the sea breeze blew into his face, and in response to his body\u2019s reaction to MaryBeth\u2019s proximity. His left hand was in his pocket, hoping to gain courage just by holding the item he had slipped inside before he left his home. He closed his eyes as MaryBeth\u2019s fingers made their way through the open buttons and began to play with the dark hair upon his chest. Adam removed his hand from his pocket and reached for her hand, pulled it out from his shirt, raising it to his lips, he kissed her delicate fingers.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, about us\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaryBeth, that\u2019s not lady-like.\u201d Adam stated.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want you\u2026 Adam, if we continue on this way, I\u2019m bound to be an old spinster\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOld spinster\u2026\u201d Adam laughed. \u201cYou\u2019re only nineteen, you\u2019ve your whole life ahead of you.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what of you, Adam?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, at twenty-one\u2026 I want to finish college, and set to practice what I\u2019ve learned\u2026 Did you know that Castle Island over there is also the site of a monument to Donald McKay, the builder of the famous clipper ships Flying Cloud and Sovereign of the Seas? The monument faces across Boston Harbor towards East Boston, where McKay built his ships.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care about ships or clouds or seas\u2026 Adam, I want you,\u201d MaryBeth turned to face Adam, pressing her body against his and she felt his reaction.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut if they\u2019re important to me?\u201d Adam asked as he tried to step back.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I was important to you\u2026\u201d MaryBeth pouted\u2026 Again she pressed into Adam and reached for more buttons on his shirt.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaryBeth, this is not proper\u2026\u201d Adam stated. His grandfather had long ago had the talk with him about his responsibilities towards women and how he was expected to act and the possible consequences should he not control himself.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProper? We\u2019ve been going together for six months, two of my friends are already betrothed and they\u2019ve only been courted for three months,\u201d MaryBeth stated adamantly.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve no intention to get married until after I graduate.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Stoddard Cartwright are you trifling with my affections? Are you saying that I\u2019m not good enough for you\u2026 You would rather continue at Harvard when you could have me and all the money my papa would give to us\u2026? Adam, you\u2019d want for nothing\u2026 Please, ask papa for my hand in marriage.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to live off your family. When I marry, I intend to provide for my wife\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou and your self-righteous, preconceived\u2026\u201d Anger tinged MaryBeth\u2019s voice. \u201cYou could never provide for me like papa can\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why are you so demanding that I propose\u2026\u201dAdam indignantly asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t propose, then I\u2019ll get Bert Toleme to propose, he\u2019ll marry me,\u201d taunted MaryBeth, just to gage Adam\u2019s reaction.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor what, your father\u2019s money?\u201d spat Adam as he stepped back and tried to turn away, but stopped at MaryBeth\u2019s movement.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat among other assets,\u201d MaryBeth pressed her hands to her well-endowed breasts and lifted them. \u201cPlease Adam,\u201d MaryBeth coyly approached, her fingers twisting the buttons on the front of her shirt. \u201cWe could be good together, all our friends say that we\u2019re a perfect match.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are we a perfect match\u2026?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWith my good looks, papa\u2019s money, and a man like you on my arm\u2026 We\u2019d be invited to one ball after another, and who knows\u2026 eventually, papa could make a run for the state senate or even the United States Congress\u2026 He\u2019d have a position for you within his office. Adam, by marrying me you could become one of society\u2019s elite\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

By the time MaryBeth stood in front of Adam, her blouse gaped open revealing the creamy pale skin of the top of her breasts. Adam didn\u2019t want to, but he couldn\u2019t help as his eyes drew down to the inviting view. She began to pull at the string that tied the front of her camisole closed.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what does someone like you of society\u2019s elite see in a commoner like me?\u201d demanded Adam as he refused to accept MaryBeth into his arms.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He fought his body\u2019s reaction to the sight and stimulation of her proximity. Her perfume mixed with the spring blossoms. In his core, he wanted desperately to take her assets into his hands and then\u2026 <\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

His mind wandered to the images of his and Ashley Benton\u2019s first time at Miss Amelia\u2019s Gentlemen\u2019s Club and all that Eve had taught him, and shared with him whenever he returned.\u00a0 <\/em>That had been the beginning of this current year at college.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Just three nights\u00a0previous, he had informed Eve that that night would be their last night together. The ring in his pocket spoke of his promise, a promise of his intentions to ask MaryBeth to marry him once he was through with college.\u00a0 It was with\u00a0his and MaryBeth’s future in mind that\u00a0he thought it best to no longer visit Miss Amelia\u2019s.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s attention was returned to the present as MaryBeth tugged at his shirt, pulling it from his pants. He was unprepared for her advances; and now\u2026 her warm breath, her proximity, her urgency\u2026 He\u2019d not seen this amorous side of the young woman he\u2019d been seeing and wanting to court.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can have fun together\u2026 You\u2019re not such a bore, unless you talk of Harvard or sea stuff\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

By the time MaryBeth finished speaking Adam saw there wasn\u2019t much of her \u2018assets\u2019 left to the imagination. She had completely unbuttoned her shirt, pulled the front of her blouse out from the waist of her skirt and allowed it drape open The strings to the front of her camisole hung loosely and the opening was pulled as wide as she could to reveal as much as herself without being totally indecent. He knew what lay hidden just below the edge of the material of her camisole which\u00a0exposed the roundness and fullness of her breasts.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Her own body was reacting to the proximity of the man she knew could satisfy her desires that hungered deep within. Yes, she could do well in society by marrying Bert Toleme, after all, he was of society. She didn\u2019t want to be the \u2018plus one\u2019 and not the focus of all attention\u2026his family was more prominent than her own. However, with Adam as her husband, she felt she could parade him around and make all her friends jealous because of whom their parents chose as their spouses to marry. She had heard rumors surrounding Adam\u2019s visits to the gentlemen\u2019s club. She thought on Bert Toleme and remembered he was such an animal when it came to taking her to bed, it was all about him; he knew nothing of satisfying the pleasures a woman sought. No, she had to force Adam into marrying her if he wouldn\u2019t ask of his own accord.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just what am I supposed to talk about?!\u201d Adam demanded, fully back in control of his body and his emotions.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnything but Harvard or that other nonsense\u2026\u201d MaryBeth reached for Adam\u2019s shirt.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat, nonsense, as you so call it, is important to me. My father and my\u2026\u201d Adam pulled her hands from his shirt and pushed them away.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho cares about your father, we\u2019re talking about our future\u2026\u201d MaryBeth implored.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry MaryBeth, but I just don\u2019t see a future between the two of us.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The sting remained long after her hand slapped the left side of his face. Adam watched as MaryBeth ran towards the carriage. Once on the seat, she made herself decent before reaching for the reins to the horse and setting it out at a fast trot. Adam fingered the promise ring in his pocket and began the long walk home.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Five days later the society page announced the official engagement of MaryBeth Winslow to Bert Toleme. That night, Eve welcomed him back to the gentlemen\u2019s club and told Amelia she was spoken for the night.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he became thankful that MaryBeth had shown her true colors; and Bert\u2026 His promising career as an attorney went nowhere. He became the laughing stock of their social circles as he tagged along behind his wife, like a little puppy, doing her bidding, and drinking to excess. It was that summer Adam had accompanied his roommate to Charleston, South Carolina where Adam stood as Ashley Benton\u2019s best man at his wedding.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

From a world of heartache he experienced that night, Adam now realized that it has all been a blessing. Had he given into MaryBeth, married her and gave up his final year at Havard, he would never have gone to sea and become the man he was today.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019m gonna kill them,\u201d Virgil Cashel stated while pacing in front of the camp fire, bottle of whiskey in his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSettle down Virg, ain\u2019t gonna do you any good wearing yourself out like a caged cat,\u201d Henry Collingwood answered as he returned his attention to the deep wound that penetraged his right thigh.<\/span><\/p>\n

Both men showed the years hadn\u2019t been kind to them, their clothes were beginning to show wear and their weathered faces belied the actual youth of their mid-twenty years of age.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt weren\u2019t your brother those bastards killed,\u201d Virg sneered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, and I\u2019m sorry Caleb was killed, he shoulda known better than to charge out like he did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was just a kid!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKid or no kid, you were the one who sent him on that cattle drive with the Cartwrights.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, the kid knew his way around cattle. All he had to do was stay behind us and he\u2019d of been alright.\u201d Virgil began to feel a little bit guilty, \u201cDang his hide, I told him to forget about that horse\u2026 We\u2019s after the money they got for them beeves\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt least you know he got a proper burial in Pines,\u201d Henry stated in an effort to calm his friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill\u2026 they hadn\u2019t aughta killed him,\u201d Virgil stated as he finally sat down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhatcha gonna do about it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike I said, I\u2019m gonna kill \u2018em.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou, kill a Cartwright\u2026 You do that and the whole territory will be after us,\u201d Henry advised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care\u2026 But I\u2019ll make them care\u2026 I\u2019ll make them pay for killing my kid brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd how are you planning to do that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFirst, by taking the kid\u2026 He\u2019ll probably be the easiest to get. Giving him a little taste of what Caleb got.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou go after Joe? You\u2019re crazy,\u201d Henry responded. \u201cJust how do you plan to get close to him? Walk up to the door and ask for a job?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 He\u2019ll come to us,\u201d Virgil answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll come to us\u2026 And just why is he going to do that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause we got his horse and his gear\u2026 All we have to do is keep an eye on the PON-DE-RO-SA and make sure he sees us when that ape of his big brother ain\u2019t around. Hearing how hotheaded he is, he\u2019s sure to come after us\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Virgil settled down, thrilled with the first step of his planned revenged.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam was walking the main street of Virginia City when he heard his name called and turned to see Hoss Cartwright riding towards him, a big smile on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood Afternoon, Hoss,\u201d greeted Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAfternoon. Hey ya got plans for supper? Hop Sing\u2019s plannin\u2019 on fixin\u2019 steak and taters tonight, thought you might like to come and meet pa? Joe and I think we got him to where he\u2019ll hire ya on\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGee, let me check my appointment book, I\u2019m kinda real busy,\u201d teased Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I didn\u2019t think about that\u2026 Maybe next week,\u201d offered Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMan, I\u2019m just teasing you. All I\u2019ve done is walk the town and a little scouting around the immediate vicinity.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen you\u2019ll come?\u201d Hoss\u2019 eyes lit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, what time do you want me to arrive?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if your calendar isn\u2019t too full,\u201d Hoss teased back, \u201cHow about now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me go to the livery and get Sport.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, I\u2019ll meet you there just as soon as I get the mail. Pa\u2019s real anxious about that bank check. It ain\u2019t arrived yet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As the two men rode to the Ponderosa, Hoss kept patting his chest. Adam didn\u2019t know how the big man could ride with his shirt practically buttoned all the way to his neck and wear the leather vest he wore. The warmth of the day had forced Adam to ride with his shirt halfway unbuttoned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI take it the letter arrived?\u201d Adam deduced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, how\u2019d you know?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou keep patting yourself as you\u2019ve done every couple of minutes is a dead give-away.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d Hoss quickly lowered his hand as he was about to make sure the enveloped was still in the inner pocket of his vest, again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, I\u2019ve been listening to people in town talk, and your father is thought of rather highly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Pa gives back to the community, just as he gives back to the land. See that stand of trees over there?\u201d Adam looked where Hoss pointed, \u201cWe harvested a good many trees within that stand last spring and pa insisted we replant for every tree we cut down. He calls it being a good steward of the land. He don\u2019t allow us to take every tree either.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot many business men would care enough to do that,\u201d Adam acknowledged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa ain\u2019t a businessman, not exactly. He cares about the land and wants to make sure it remains beautiful for future generations.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked around and saw other indications of the way they cared for the land.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow much farther is it until we reach the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve been riding on it for about forty-five minutes. We still got a couple a miles to go until we reach the main house. You\u2019ll want to\u2026 uh\u2026 button up before we meet Pa. You wanta make a good impression, don\u2019tcha.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure I do. I had planned to ask you to stop so I could \u2018button up\u2019 and put on my string tie when we got closer to your home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHey Henry!\u201d Virg called from the rock overlooking the road to the main house of the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat Virg?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Henry climbed from where he was resting to see what had interested his companion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook down there.\u201d Virgil pointed down the hill. \u201cAin\u2019t that the older Cartwright and that other fella that was riding with them?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure looks like it,\u201d Henry answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Virgil slowly positioned his rifle and bore the sight down on the two unwary riders. Using the end of the barrel of the rifle Virg followed their route until he felt they were in range. Next to him, he sensed Henry preparing his rifle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Two rifle reports sounded as one as both men fired. Virg greedily smiled when the smaller man flew backwards from the saddle and the larger man hung precariously to his saddle, ever so slowly slipping to the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe got \u2018em Virg!\u201d Henry exclaimed. \u201cWe got \u2018em!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho would have thought this wouldn\u2019t be as easy as shooting fish in a barrel, but it was. Now we just have to get that scrawny one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men made their way from their vantage point and returned to Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

His hand still fisted around the reins of his horse, two quick tugs and the horse stepped closer. Reaching for the stirrup, Hoss pulled himself up to stand and looked around, where he saw Adam laying sprawled on the ground. Though he wanted to help his new friend, as he took a step the blinding pain in his head felt to explode and prevented him from doing any more than raising his hand to his temple and massaged it in an effort to minimize the throbbing. He pulled away his hand when he felt the moisture and looked down to see blood on his fingers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked towards Adam one more time and saw the red spreading across the opening of the man\u2019s white shirt and knew he had to do something. This was the man who twice had saved his little brother\u2019s life\u2026 Pressing on, he fought off the dizziness compounded by nausea and walked to where Adam lie. Not seeing Sport, Hoss wondered how he was going to get the man home when he was shoved from behind; he\u2019d forgot he still had Chubs\u2019 reins in hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

Petting the velvety muzzle of the animal, Hoss felt somewhat comforted that they had transportation. Though Adam was not a large man, and yet not nearly as small as Joe, Hoss\u2019 wound caused him to expend a great effort to lift the unconscious man and lay him across the saddle. Once that was accomplished, Hoss clung to the saddle and breathed heavily, wondering if he\u2019d be able to pull himself into the saddle, if not, he knew there was no way he\u2019d be able to walk the rest of the distance home.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHey Boss!\u201d Crawley yelled as he rode into the yard of the main ranch house. His employer and youngest son were checking Buck\u2019s hind limb at the hitching rail at the side of the yard. \u201cI found this horse loose not too far from here. He ain\u2019t got your brand\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both Cartwrights looked up and walked over to where their hand still sat in the saddle, holding onto the reins of a chestnut horse with three white stockings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, that\u2019s Adam\u2019s horse,\u201d Joe stated, walking around the animal, looking it over. His heart dropped when he recognized the darkening red splattered on the horse and saddle. \u201cPa, there\u2019s blood.\u201d He looked around when he heard the soft sounds of another horse and someone weakly calling, \u201cPa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d Joe began running at seeing his brother. \u201cIt\u2019s Hoss!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben arrived a moment behind Joe, \u201cHoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBeen shot,\u201d breathed Hoss. \u201cAdam\u2019s bad, gotta get Doc.\u201d Hoss teetered in the saddle, the bullet wound caused his head to pound as if being struck by a sledgehammer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCrawley!\u201d yelled Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa want me to go for the doc?\u201d the hand offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo! Joe you go, get Doc.\u201d Calling out to his hand, \u201cGet some of the other men to help me get them into the house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can help, Pa,\u201d Joe pleaded, his eyes bulged out at seeing the blood streaming down his brother\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben didn\u2019t think on the tone of voice he used, he just ordered his son, \u201cYou\u2019ll do as you\u2019re told and go get the doctor! That\u2019s how you\u2019ll help!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With tears slipping down his face, Joe ran into the barn, hurriedly saddled his horse, and raced from the barn in the direction of Virginia City, and the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Crawley returned from the bunkhouse with two other men. Carefully they lowered Adam from the horse and two of them carried the prone form towards the house where a vociferous Hop Sing opened the door, demanding to know what was happening. His words died on his lips, he opened the door wide and led the way upstairs to one of the guest rooms. Ben and Crawley assisted Hoss from Chubs and led the man, as he faltered in his stride, into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben helped Hoss into his bed and proceeded to try to undress him with little success. Hoss kept batting away his father\u2019s hands as the man tried to unbutton his shirt. \u201cPa, ya gotta help Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing is taking care of him. Now just lie back and let me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo Pa, we owe it to him\u2026\u201d Hoss mumbled as he lay backwards on the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben gave up trying to unbutton Hoss\u2019 shirt, he didn\u2019t know why he was so focused on unbuttoning his son\u2019s blood spattered shirt to make him comfortable; Hoss had been deeply wounded across his temple. So Ben changed tactics and decided to clean the wound to determine the depth of the injury. Carrying the pitcher and basin from the stand and placing them on the table next to the bed, Ben poured water and wet the towel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019ll be alright\u2026 I feel better just lyin\u2019 down. Please\u2026 You gotta go take care of Adam. He saved Joe\u2019s life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben hesitated mid-movement, \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe was gonna tell ya tonight, after ya met him. He saved Joe from bein\u2019 Shanghaied in San Francisco, and he was the one who really helped save Joe\u2019s life when Warrior bolted and headed straight towards those varmints who were tryin\u2019 to rob us. He knew what to do and did it to help Joe. Please Pa, go help him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was torn, he wanted to tend to his son, but now he felt a stronger obligation to the stranger his sons called friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

Entering the room, Ben saw that Hop Sing had already removed the man\u2019s shirt and was applying pressure to stop the bleeding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBad Mr. Cartwright\u2026 Wound verry bad,\u201d Hop Sing spoke in his stilted English.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs the bullet still in him?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo blood on back of shirt, only front. Get water\u2026 more towels\u2026\u201d Hop Sing felt guilty for telling his employer what to do.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben moved about the room, collecting the items they needed to treat this man. As he returned to the bed, he set the pitcher and basin, and several towels on the nightstand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me see how bad it is Hop Sing,\u201d Ben waited for Hop Sing to step aside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know what honorable doctor need, I boil water, get more cloths, I be ready\u2026 You keep pressure.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood Hop Sing. Oh Hop Sing, until Paul gets here, would you help check in on Hoss. He took a deep crease across his temple,\u201d Ben informed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Reverently bowing, Hop Sing left the room and set to work preparing for Doctor Martin\u2019s arrival.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Over an hour and a half had lapsed from the time Little Joe rode out of the yard until the sounds of running horses approaching was heard in the house. The front door crashed off the credenza as Joe race into the house, heading for the steps and his brother\u2019s room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Seeing his brother lying motionless and ever so pale, Joe tentatively called out \u201cHoss?\u201d at entering the room and seeing no one else there. Joe gripped the door frame to steady himself as he feared the worse that he hadn\u2019t been fast enough and Hoss had died. Joe closed his eyes to shut out the vision of his brother lying there, alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShortshanks?\u201d Hoss breathily whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss? You\u2019re alive?\u201d Joe took a tentative step inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, though with this headache, I sorta wish I wasn\u2019t.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t say that!\u201d Joe quietly exclaimed. \u201cDon\u2019t ever wish that!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat down on the side of the bed and began to tend to his brother, cleaning the blood from the side of his face and refreshing the bloody cloth that covered the wound.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, let me see Hoss,\u201d Paul stated as he entered the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah Doc, I\u2019ll be okay as long as I lie here. Ya gotta go help Adam\u2026 They shot him in the chest. He\u2019s in the guest room next to Pa\u2019s.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure you\u2019ll be okay?\u201d Paul stated as he picked up his Gladstone bag and waited for a reply.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe here\u2019ll see that I stay put until you\u2019re a done with Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Joe\u2026 You\u2019ll be okay with Hoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I\u2019ll take care of him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Doc Martin left the brothers and proceeded across the hallway and into the guest room indicated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, how\u2019s my patient?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t look too good\u2026 I just hope that this man is lucky and that the trajectory missed anything vital.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let me in there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Doctor, I bring water and bandages.\u201d Hop Sing set the items on the desk near the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Hop Sing, if you\u2019ll assist me? I was just sending Ben to be with his boys.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing help.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Ben returned to Hoss\u2019 room and waited just outside the opened door, he could tell from the hitch in Joe\u2019s shoulders that he was upset; he couldn\u2019t hear everything that Hoss was saying, but he knew he needed to allow Hoss to help his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe wouldn\u2019t let me help you Hoss\u2026 He yelled at me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Blindly reaching for Joe\u2019s hand, Hoss found it and began to reassuringly squeeze. \u201cJoe, Pa was upset. I\u2019m sure he didn\u2019t really mean to yell at ya.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI coulda helped you to bed\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle brother, you did better than that. You got the doc here in time. We both know that you and Cochise are the fastest two when it comes to racing. Why else would Pa a sent you to town? Ain\u2019t no one else coulda got Doc here as fast as you did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just hope it was fast enough,\u201d Joe dejectedly answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben called as he stepped into the room, \u201cI\u2019m sorry I yelled at you earlier, I didn\u2019t realize what I was saying or how it came across to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s okay, Pa. Hoss explained it to me.\u201d Joe accepted his father\u2019s apology yet he still felt bad, that he had somehow let his brother down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you also tell me about why you needed rescuing in San Francisco?\u201d Ben inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou told him?\u201d Joe asked, his voice indicated his nervousness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had to\u2026 He was tryin\u2019 ta help me when Adam needed him more. I had to tell him why he needed to help Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019ll probably never let me go on another cattle drive\u2026\u201d Joe mumbled without realizing he\u2019d spoken aloud.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt that, but you will be kept under closer watch in the future\u2026\u201d Ben stated as he pulled a chair closer to Hoss\u2019 bed, Ben stated, \u201cWhy don\u2019t the two of you tell me all there is to know about this\u2026 Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 he saved my life Pa.\u201d Joe continued to tell of his thinking it would be okay to go to China town and get something for Hops Sing\u2019s upcoming birthday. \u201cI wasn\u2019t going anywhere near the wharf, so I really didn\u2019t think getting Shanghaied would be a problem.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEven if they weren\u2019t gonna Shanghai ya, little brother, they sure worked you over pretty good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I know. It wasn\u2019t exactly fair there being three of them and only one a me,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, he saved your life, twice and I\u2019m grateful. But how do you know this wasn\u2019t all a set up?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think he\u2019s one of the outlaws and they shot him? Cain\u2019t be true Pa\u2026 We met Captain Addison and he vouched for him. See Adam was his first officer on The Wanderer II.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026 Merchant sailors\u2026\u201d Ben had forgotten that previously the boys had told him their friend was an officer in the United States Navy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not a merchant sailor, Pa. He\u2019s a Lieutenant\u2026 Lieutenant Adam Stoddard Cartwright,\u201d Joe slipped out, without remembering how it had alarmed him to hear the man had the same last name.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you say his name was?\u201d Ben asked; his face blanched.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Stoddard Cartwright, least that\u2019s what he was goin\u2019 to use; didn\u2019t want to cause us any trouble. Ain\u2019t it funny Pa, findin\u2019 someone in San Francisco that has our last name?\u201d Hoss asked and turned his head slightly when he heard Joe squeal, \u201cPa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Stoddard Cartwright?\u201d Ben grabbed for the bedpost and practically fell as he stumbled across the floor; he hung onto the doorframe as he made his way out of the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d the boys called in unison.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hearing the name slammed memories; old, painful memories.\u00a0 Ben\u00a0fumbled his way into the room where Doctor Martin performed surgery and called Paul\u2019s name.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, get out of here!\u201d ordered Paul, not looking up from his patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, Mr. Cartwright, stay with boys. We come tell when operation done.\u201d\u00a0 It surprised Hop Sing how easy it was to turn the man around and get him into the hallway and close the door behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Ben had no recollection on how he came to sit behind his desk in his office area of the great room on the first floor, nor how Elizabeth\u2019s picture ended up held to his chest. All he knew was the brandy tasted strong in his mouth and the tumbler in his hand was only a quarter of the way full.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth\u2026 Is it possible? After all these years\u2026? But Jonathan said he and Abel died\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Setting the tumbler to the desk, Ben took his first wife\u2019s picture in both hands and continued to stare at it. Longingly he ran the fingertips of his right hand over the smiling image, and felt no comfort from the cold glass that protected the picture.<\/span><\/p>\n

The room in which he sat had darkened as day turned to night, when he finally became aware of Doc Martin kneeling beside him, a worried expression on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen? Are you with us?\u201d Paul inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

Coming out of the daze, Ben looked over and saw the physician, and his youngest son standing behind the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d answered Ben. Slightly shaking the haze from his vision, Ben sat up straighter in his chair. \u201cHow is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss is gonna be fine. Keep him flat on his back until the headache goes away and then allow him to sit up for small increments at a time. I\u2019ll take the stitches out in about ten days.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd A\u2026 Adam?\u201d Ben hesitantly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s going to be a long night with that man. Thankfully his sternum deflected the bullet slightly, but I believe it still came to lie too close to his lung, and the aorta. Not sure how \u2026\u201d Paul shook his head. \u201cIt was touch and go for a while, one wrong move on my part, and I could very well have caused his death.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I see him?\u201d Ben’s voice quavered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss? Of course,\u201d Paul answered yet he sensed something wasn\u2019t right with his friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, he\u2019s Adam\u2026\u201d Ben answered, hoping his friend would understand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe told me his name was Adam when we were riding here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he\u2019s Adam\u2026 There can\u2019t be two Adam Stoddard Cartwrights\u2026 can there?\u201d Ben’s mind was rampant with emotions that twisted around until he feared he would lose his sanity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026 Stoddard\u2026 Cartwright?\u201d Paul repeated and looked up to Joe who still stood behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat what he said his name was\u2026\u201d Joe answered, confused. \u201cWhat\u2019s the big deal? So, he\u2019s got the same last name as us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul poured Ben a half glass of brandy and insisted the man drink it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I think this is something you need to allow your father to tell you, when he\u2019s capable.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with Pa?!\u201d Joe demanded, now worried for his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, go up to Hoss\u2019 room,\u201d Ben stated. \u201cI\u2019ll be there in a few minutes\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe wanted to argue but the look on Paul\u2019s face was enough of a warning to tell him to obey his father\u2019s wish.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men watched the youth slowly make his way up the first part of the staircase, stop on the middle landing and look at them, before proceeding to the top and down the hallway. The door to Hoss\u2019 room closed before the two men looked at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure Ben?\u201d He finally understood what Ben was trying to say.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026I don\u2019t know. All I know is his name and he\u2019s a sailor\u2026 He saved Joe\u2019s life, not once but twice\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoes he know?\u201d Paul looked up to the ceiling, as if he could see through the lumber and plaster and know for certain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe boys said he came west to find out what drew his father out here to his death\u2026 Paul, if Jonathan was wrong, all those years ago\u2026 Is it possible\u2026 If this Adam\u2026 was out here seeking to find out the cause of his father\u2019s death, and I am his father\u2026 Could Jonathan have lied to Abel too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor what purpose?\u201d Paul struggled to understand the complexity of the entire situation. If these two men were truly related, what good would have come by their mutual friend having informed each of the other\u2019s untimely death?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026\u201d Looking his friend earnestly in the face Ben reached for him and stated, \u201cYou have to save his life. I have to know\u2026 If he is Adam\u2026 my Adam\u2026 I can\u2019t lose him now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll do my best, but nothing is guaranteed. I\u2019m not God.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly Ben stood to his feet and made his way to the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like for me to be there when you tell Hoss and Little Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded and waited for his friend to join him for the walk up the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe sat on the bed and explained to Hoss what had happened downstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I ain\u2019t never seen him like that before\u2026 He looked\u2026 lost\u2026 confused\u2026 I\u2019d almost say he looked devastated.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa think\u2026 Hey brother, get my vest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat for?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe letter arrived. I bet Pa thinks that money done got stolen by whoever shot us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe picked the vest up from the floor, \u201cYour blood’s all over it.\u201d Joe walked back to the bed carrying the garment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was shot,\u201d Hoss answered, painting a picture of the obvious.<\/span><\/p>\n

He waited while Joe pulled the envelope out from the inner pocket, \u201cIt\u2019s here Hoss, your handwriting and it\u2019s not been opened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhew! Pa\u2019ll be happy to hear I didn\u2019t lose it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned at the waist when he heard the door to Hoss\u2019 room open and watched as his father and the doctor entered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, I need to talk to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure Pa,\u201d Hoss answered. \u201cJoe give Pa the envelope.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEnvelope?\u201d Ben queried, his mind wasn\u2019t exactly focused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the money Pa. The bank drafts,\u201d Hoss announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Ben absently accepted the envelope from his youngest and set it aside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d Joe asked as he looked from his father to the doctor and back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sat in the chair next to his son\u2019s bed, close to where his youngest sat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, there\u2019s something you both need to know\u2026 And I\u2019m not exactly sure where to begin\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre we in trouble?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrouble? No\u2026 no you\u2019re not in trouble, but this does involve both of you, actually all of us. And I\u2019m not sure how you\u2019re going to react\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The brothers looked to each other, worried and curious at the same time. Neither had ever seen their father this distracted and so unsure of himself and what he was saying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you just tell us and don\u2019t worry about how we\u2019re gonna react until you\u2019re through tellin\u2019 us\u2026 I mean, it cain\u2019t be bad news\u2026\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026\u201d Ben took a deep breath and looked to Paul Martin for encouragement. \u201cYou both know I was married before I met Inger?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure Pa, her picture\u2019s on your desk by the pictures of Hoss\u2019 ma and my ma,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Elizabeth and I had a son\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The news surprised both the brothers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAfter Elizabeth died, at first, I thought I could make a life for the boy and myself in Boston, but in time, my dream pulled at me so much that it became a distraction\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to the boy?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee, my father-in-law thought it would be best if I were to come out here and get settled before sending for the boy\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Joe asked unbelieving his father would leave a son behind.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wrote Abel about marrying Hoss\u2019 ma and he wrote back that once I was truly settled that he\u2019d see about bringing the boy out west to join us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Ma died in the Indian attack,\u201d Hoss completed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and it was difficult enough raising you on my own, even with the help from some of the other women in the wagon train\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you finally settled here,\u201d Joe stated. \u201cAnd then you went to New Orleans and met my ma. Didn\u2019t you send for him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I did, and I thought that maybe Abel might reconsider and come stay with us. I wrote and asked him to meet me in New Orleans; he and I could get reacquainted and I could meet my son and learn to become his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut there was no wire or any word from Abel when I checked into my hotel. That night, I ran into an old friend from Boston, he told me that Abel\u2026 and my son died of influenza the previous winter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean we had a brother we didn\u2019t know about?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben heard the longing in his voice for what could have been and now knew could never be.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI never saw any reason to tell you boys, Hoss, you weren\u2019t old enough to understand, and Joe\u2026 I met your mother a few days later. What good would it have done to tell you\u2026 so long after the fact.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut why now Pa?\u201d Joe asked. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter that we had another brother, you said he died before I was ever born.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what I thought\u2026 what I was told.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben turned and looked to his friend, resting his hip upon the desk in Hoss\u2019 bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, what your father is trying to say, is that earlier, when you told him Adam\u2019s full name, it shocked your father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow come?\u201d Joe asked, he hadn\u2019t connected the two events.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Hoss struggled to sit up and groaned as the room began to spin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLie down Hoss, please\u2026 Maybe now\u2019s not the right time,\u201d Ben stated as he covered Hoss with the sheet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, they have a right to know, now. Especially if he doesn\u2019t make it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean he\u2019s not dead?\u201d Joe finally put the pieces together. \u201cHe\u2019s coming here? How\u2019d he find out about us? When\u2019s he supposed to get here? Is he coming by stage? What\u2019s he like?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy Joe. There is a chance that your father was misinformed all those years ago,\u201d Paul stated as he stood and walked to stand next to Ben. \u201cWe don\u2019t know anything for certain.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, Elizabeth\u2019s maiden name was Stoddard\u2026\u201d Ben hoped that would explain it all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Stoddard Cartwright\u2026 Then he doesn\u2019t just happen to have the same last name as us\u2026\u201d Hoss quietly spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean\u2026\u201d Pointing his hand towards the door, Joe stated, \u201cThat\u2019s our\u2026?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s every reason for me to believe he may be\u2026 your brother,\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d yelled Joe. \u201cI have a brother! He ain\u2019t my brother!\u201d Joe bolted from Hoss\u2019 bed, oblivious to the fact that he jostled the bed and caused Hoss to grimace. Joe tore open the door, ran down the hallway, down the stairs, across the floor of the great room and out the front door, slamming it behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t think Joe would react that way,\u201d Paul stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a shock to him\u2026 I should have told you boys this years ago\u2026\u201d Ben stated as he placed a hand to Hoss\u2019 shoulder. Hoss felt his father\u2019s grief.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, how\u2019s he doing? Do you really think Adam gonna make it?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s like I told you and Joe earlier, when I stitched you up. He\u2019s so bad off\u2026I don\u2019t know. I\u2019ll say again, the human body just isn\u2019t meant to take the trauma he\u2019s experienced. I\u2019ll give him every chance I can to survive. I\u2019m planning to stay here the night to keep an eye on him. Ben, if you don\u2019t mind, I\u2019m going to go back to Adam\u2019s room and check on him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The door closed slowly behind the physician as he left the room, leaving father and son alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou best go find Little Joe,\u201d Hoss whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s probably already on his way to town,\u201d Ben stated, defeat voiced in his words. Ben stood and retired from Hoss\u2019 room, he was so emotionally overwrought that he didn\u2019t know what to do. Could the man lying in the bed next to his bedroom really be his son? Why? How? After all these years? His mind returned to the one comfort he could find when he became melancholy on the anniversary of Elizabeth\u2019s death and Adam\u2019s birth, he locked himself in his bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The grandfather clock downstairs had struck one in the morning when Doc Martin exited the kitchen with a fresh cup of coffee in his hands as Joe entered the house. Doc worried if Joe had done anything irrational, like going into town and getting drunk. He knew Ben had granted the young man permission to drink, as long as he or Hoss accompanied Joe\u2026 But then he remembered that after the slamming door earlier in the evening, he had not heard any horse running from the yard and Joe\u2019s hat and gun belt were still present when he crossed the great room a few minutes earlier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d Paul quietly spoke as Joe started to walk across the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs he gonna live?\u201d Joe asked, not turning to look at the man standing behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s still alive now\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up the staircase and slowly allowed his gaze to return downstairs and settling on the dying fire in the great hearth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like to sit down and talk?\u201d Paul inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

That was all Joe needed; he walked to sit down on the settee, the fingers of his hands interlaced, both hands between his knees, shoulders hunched over, head down.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul set the cup of coffee on the wooden table and took a seat next to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoc, I don\u2019t know exactly how to feel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s understandable.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne moment I\u2019m angry that Pa left Adam behind and wonder if he\u2019d of given us away if we\u2019d had a grandfather. And then I\u2019m angry Pa never told us about our brother and learning he died. Then I\u2019m happy to know I have another brother, but then I think that by being happy to have a new brother, I\u2019m being disloyal to Hoss. And Hoss is lying upstairs with a bullet wound to his scalp, but he\u2019s gonna be okay. And I get thinking it might be okay having two brothers, but as bad as you said Adam was\u2026 I don\u2019t want him as a brother if he\u2019s gonna die. I already have a brother\u2026 I don\u2019t need another one that\u2019s gonna leave us just as we find out who he is\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

But just as Paul thought he should say something, Joe continued, \u201cI just get to wondering if he really was part of the attempt to Shanghai me, only he didn\u2019t know we were related. And maybe that was just a rouse in order for him to follow us here and maybe hurt Pa, or steal from us. Maybe his friends turned on him\u2026 Or was that part of the plan to make sure it looked like he was a victim too, only they shot him worse than they were supposed to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, that\u2019s a lot of thinking racing around in your head.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell me about it,\u201d Joe sarcastically answered. \u201cWhy\u2019d Pa have to tell us? I mean if he dies, what difference would it have made?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I believe your father was thinking of it differently, what if Adam lives, it would make a huge difference to this family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d still be the youngest\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I feel unless Ben remarries and has another child, you\u2019re bound to remain the youngest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUnless there\u2019s another Cartwright out there already that we don\u2019t know about\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you know your father better than that. He believes in the sanctity of marriage\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe left Hoss and me after Momma died\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do you really think that he\u2019d take to another woman as much as he grieved over your mother\u2019s death?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that why he\u2019s never remarried, because he\u2019s lost three wives?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t answer that. Maybe there aren\u2019t any women this far west who he feels measure up to the standards your mothers set as Mrs. Benjamin Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Ben had lain on his bed for hours, mourning the loss of Elizabeth and seeking guidance, if this stranger in his house was really his son\u2026 He heard the boot steps upon the wooden porch and the jiggle of the handle as the door downstairs opened and closed. As Ben climbed from his bed he prayed the sounds were from his youngest son returning to the house. Having inserted his feet into his slippers, Ben quietly made his way to the staircase and as he reached for the banister, he recognized the voices\u2026 he listened.<\/span><\/p>\n

With his position concealed from view from below, Ben clearly heard the conversation occurring. Ben was at a loss at how he would have answered his son had it been him sitting there and not Paul Martin. The roiling emotions his son spoke of showed an air of maturity he had not acknowledged his youngest son having yet attained. As the conversation continued, this newly recognized maturity also revealed the confusion his son\u2019s age didn\u2019t allow him to understand. While listening, he heard Joe confessing his hurt and as the conversation neared its end, he heard the little boy returning as Joe struggled to understand their lives were possibly forever changed.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cJoseph, I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Ben stated as he stepped to the floor of the great room. \u201cI\u2019m so sorry\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Joe looked to his father, but his shoulders still slumped, \u201cWhat if he dies\u2026 He saved my life\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like to join me while I sit with him? I think that\u2026 I think that we should be there, and if he is your brother\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Hoss? How would he feel in the morning, neither of us with him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you prefer to stay with Hoss?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded and averted his face from his father who had come to sit beside him on the settee, opposite from Paul.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I can\u2019t ask for you to accept him and feel towards him as you do the brother you\u2019ve known all your life. All I can do is ask for you to accept the possibility that he might be your brother, and if God\u2026\u201d Ben\u2019s voiced failed him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you mind if I stay with Hoss?\u201d Joe was torn, it was one thing to talk to their family physician about the man upstairs and the possibilities and his fears\u2026 but with his father sitting next to him, his emotions jumbled and threatened to overwhelm him as they had earlier. He wanted to seek out his sanctuary, the only other person who could really comfort him when he was scared his father wouldn\u2019t understand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo. You\u2019re right; one of us should stay with Hoss\u2026 Keep an eye on him\u2026 Can you do that? Can you help me by helping Hoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2026\u201d Turning to address the doctor who still sat next to him, \u201cYou\u2019ll do everything you can to help Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll do my best, but I can\u2019t promise that he\u2019ll recover\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

For the second time in less than twelve hours the two men watched Joe Cartwright climb the stairs, pause on the middle landing before continuing the rest of the way up the stairs and into his brother\u2019s room.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

With the closure of the door barely perceptible, Paul asked of Ben, \u201cHow much did you hear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard it all\u2026 Paul, if he is Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour lives will never be the same.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas I wrong in not telling the boys about Adam\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t tell you that Ben\u2026 I actually agree with your first assessment, why tell them about a brother they never knew\u2026 would never know\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut they knew about Elizabeth\u2026 Inger\u2026 What right did I have to withhold from them the truth that they had another brother?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen\u2026 I think the first thing we need to do is to ensure that young man upstairs recovers, then, and only then, will I allow you to ask him the questions you need to ask.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, who am I until he\u2019s recovered? Am I to be Mr. Cartwright to him? Surely he\u2019s heard my name in town\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know that\u2026 The way people refer to you\u2026 I think only Roy and I regularly call you Ben\u2026 Others call you Mr. Cartwright, old man Cartwright, Ponderosa Cartwright, Fool Cartwright, shall I go on\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI get the point\u2026\u201d Ben admitted. \u201cStill\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, let him guide the conversation\u2026 Once he\u2019s awake and coherent, I\u2019m sure you\u2019ll know how to proceed. Right now\u2026 I think I best see to my patient and hope my stand-in for Hoss gets some sleep too. I prescribe the same for you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll come for me if he wakes and is coherent?\u201d Ben asked and stood from the settee with Paul following him up the staircase. Ben paused at the guestroom door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI promise Ben, if he wakes and his coherent longer than it takes me to assess his mental faculties, I\u2019ll come get you.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben continued farther down the hall and into his bedroom before Paul entered the guestroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As the first vestiges of dawn broke over the Ponderosa, Hop Sing was already busy in the kitchen mixing the ingredients for the biscuits he planned to make for breakfast for the Cartwright family. Upstairs the physician was busy trying to bring down the fever his patient had developed. Frustrated for his failure to prevent the expected complication, the doctor strove harder to keep the temperature from rising any further than it already had. Leaving his patient alone for a few minutes, Doc Martin took the back staircase to the kitchen to inquire of Hop Sing if there was any ice in storage in the cold cellar.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoy bad?\u201d Hop Sing asked and received a nod from the doctor. \u201cI get, I bring to room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Hop Sing. I\u2019ll need as much as you can put in that large bowl you use for punch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The ever-faithful servant nodded and disappeared quietly from the kitchen; and just as quietly, Doc Martin returned to his most critical patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Ben entered the bedroom to see his friend placing ice strategically along the sheet that covered the body of the man who might be his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m trying to get his fever down,\u201d Paul answered, not looking up from his task.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow bad is it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHigh enough, I really don\u2019t want it going any higher.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I help?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you wouldn\u2019t mind, rewetting the rag over his forehead and grabbing another and wiping his face, neck, and his chest, above the bandage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs it being caused by an infection?\u201d Ben worriedly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t tell yet. It only started a few hours ago, but it rose fast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill you have to operate again?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI pray not\u2026 Ben, as I said yesterday, it\u2019s a miracle I didn\u2019t kill him trying to extract the bullet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut if the bullet took fabric from his shirt into the wound\u2026\u201d Ben voiced his concern, but kept his fear to himself. This man could die before he had the opportunity to confirm he was his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShirt have no bullet hole,\u201d Hop Sing stated as he entered the room carrying another bowl of ice for the doctor\u2019s use.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut he was shot\u2026\u201d Ben acknowledged in confusion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMan wear shirt, no button top buttons,\u201d Hop Sing stated. \u201cI wash shirt, most blood gone. Wash again, make clean, almost new.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank heavens for small favors,\u201d Paul stated as Hop Sing left the room. \u201cLet\u2019s just pray this fever is his body\u2019s reaction to the trauma.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The next time the door opened Hop Sing carried a tray bearing breakfast for his employer and the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou eat or you get sick. I no have time for more sick people.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Before Hop Sing returned, the tray was full of empty plates and the men felt better for having ate such a good meal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor, Lit\u2019le Joe ask you come see Hoss,\u201d Hop Sing stated as he entered the room<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHas Hoss taken a turn for the worse?\u201d Ben asked as he started to rise from the chair next to the bed Adam slept in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe no say,\u201d Hop Sing answered as he left.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, please\u2026 stay here and keep an eye on Adam\u2026 I don\u2019t want him left alone, if I can help it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul entered Hoss\u2019 bedroom to see the large man sitting up in his bed and Joe removing his breakfast tray from his lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe? Hop Sing said you wanted me to see Hoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was looking at his wound and I don\u2019t like how it looks,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d Hoss announced as he pushed Joe\u2019s hand away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s generally Joe\u2019s line,\u201d Paul teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to know how Adam is,\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s still unconscious. Now\u2026 let me look at your wound.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Without any fuss, Hoss settled into his bed and allowed the doctor to re-examine where the bullet had struck him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you were right. There is a little bit of infection causing it to look inflamed. Let me get some alcohol. We\u2019ll clean the wound again and put an ointment on it to help with the healing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTold ya,\u201d Joe stated as Doc left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fifteen minutes later, with the wound treated and a clean dressing wrapped around Hoss\u2019 head, Doc sat in the chair and waited.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was the first one to speak, \u201cIs he any better than he was last night?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid not. He\u2019s developed a fever.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m only hoping that it\u2019s only reactionary. Hop Sing stated his shirt didn\u2019t have a bullet hole in it\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?!\u201d Joe slipped out in surprise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt were hot out and Adam mentioned that he\u2019d button up his shirt and put on his string tie when we got closer to the house,\u201d Hoss explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, if that\u2019s all. I really need to get back to my patient.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoc,\u201d Hoss hesitated, \u201cHow\u2019s Pa? I mean, he ain\u2019t been in here this mornin\u2019\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told Pa I\u2019d take care of you,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, if this man is your brother, it\u2019s hit Ben pretty hard. You have to realize, he\u2019s thought Adam dead all these years and it wasn\u2019t easy leaving him behind with Abel when he set out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCain\u2019t we wire him, and ask?\u201d Joe innocently asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Adam done said his grandfather passed away, don\u2019tcha remember that\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I forgot,\u201d Joe slumped his shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, we both know you meant well. We all want to know the truth. Oh\u2026 did you boys ever mention your Pa\u2019s name to Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The brothers looked to each other, \u201cI don\u2019t think so\u2026 we always called him Pa,\u201d Joe finally answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, don\u2019t worry about it. Hoss, why don\u2019t you continue to sit up for a while and if you feel like it, as long as there is no headache, see how you feel about walking. Just to your window and back to bed. You can do it as often as you want, as long as you don\u2019t feel a headache or lightheaded.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Hoss stated. \u201cHey Joe, would you go see if Hop Sing has any more biscuits and honey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou just ate!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but if I\u2019m gonna do some walkin\u2019 I need to get my energy up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Throughout the day, Paul and Ben replenished the ice that melted as it cooled Adam\u2019s body, as the sun slipped past the horizon Paul heard Adam\u2019s teeth start to chatter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, help me pull the sheet off him and dry him down,\u201d Paul stated as Ben re-entered the room carrying a tray bearing a fresh pot of coffee and two cups.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d Ben asked as he set the tray aside and helped the physician.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think his fever\u2019s broke. This ice needs to come off him and we need to dry him down and put a blanket on him to warm him up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As the two men tended to their patient, Hoss and Joe were slowly making their way down the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know about his Joe,\u201d Hoss stated. \u201cDoc only said he wanted me to walk to the window and back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, do you have a headache? Are you feeling lightheaded?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d answered Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you hungry?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know I am\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why are you complaining. Hop Sing left earlier today to spend the evening with the elders in town, and we\u2019re both going stir crazy sitting in your room\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time Hoss sat at the table he was feeling good about being up and about, \u201cBut if Doc or Pa come down on me about sittin\u2019 here, I\u2019m blamin\u2019 you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe entered the kitchen and dished up a bowl of stew Hop Sing had said would be warming on the stove.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Images, voices, and memories intertwined in the darkness that claimed Adam Cartwright. His brain tried to put everything into logical order but the pain he felt kept everything confused. The incessant chattering that previously had only been in the background now pulled him away from the comfort and closer to the pain from where he wanted to retreat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Adam\u2026 Open your eyes,\u201d Paul Martin encouraged. When his patient first showed signs of regaining consciousness Paul had asked Ben to stand away from the bed and let him address his patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly and intermittently, Adam\u2019s eyelashes fluttered before his eyelids opened a small crack.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s it, man. Wake up\u2026 You can do it\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes were open and glassy looking, but with each passing moment Paul recognized that the man\u2019s clarity was returning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Doctor Paul Martin, can you understand what I\u2019m saying?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Struggling to talk, Adam tried to say, \u201cYou\u2019re a doctor,\u201d but it came out dry and scratchy, and barely coherent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, drink some of this,\u201d Ben stated as he offered a glass of water to the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned his head towards the new voice in the room and stared, yet slowly drank the water from the glass that was held to his lips as the man helped raise his head to drink. When half the glass was empty, Ben pulled it away and asked, \u201cBetter?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking a deep swallow, Adam asked, \u201cDid I die? Am I in heaven?\u201d as he continued to look at the man who gave him the water.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would you ask that?\u201d Ben inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFather\u2026 You look older\u2026 Is my mother here?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026\u201d Ben whispered; the impact of the words spoken overwhelmed him.<\/span><\/p>\n

As his eyes drifted closed, Adam began to ask, \u201cIs Grandfather\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen\u2026\u201d Paul\u2019s voice was just short of a hiss. \u201cI asked you to stand aside, to let me talk to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul\u2026 How did he recognize me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, do you think it’s possible that he could have seen a picture of you with his mother? Were there any photographs taken of you and Elizabeth?”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOur wedding day\u2026\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Carefully evaluating his friend, Paul guided Ben to sit down in the chair. \u201cBen, we can\u2019t be one hundred percent sure who he thought he was seeing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe said I looked older.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe may not have really seen you\u2026\u201d Paul tried to get Ben to understand that when a person regains consciousness from such a critical injury what they remembered shouldn\u2019t be trusted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIsn\u2019t that proof enough that this is Adam?!\u201d Ben refused to concede.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Ben. I know how much you want this to be Adam\u2026\u201d Looking back to his patient, Paul stated, \u201cLet me examine him for a moment and then I think it would be best if the two of us go downstairs and get something to eat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou said earlier you didn\u2019t want him left alone\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019s past the crisis, and since he has woke\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking a few minutes to listen to the man\u2019s heart and lungs through his stethoscope, Paul was pleased with what he heard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we can leave him alone long enough so we can go get something to eat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Ben stopped on the mid landing when he heard voices coming from the dining room area.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, what are you doing down here?\u201d Ben demanded to know as he watched Hoss pull an empty spoon from his mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

With his eye\u2019s bugged out and trying to hurriedly swallow so he could answer, all Hoss could do was point to his younger brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe managed coming down the stairs okay, Pa. He said he didn\u2019t have any headache or dizziness. And we were going stir crazy up there,\u201d Joe answered as he stood and ultimately walked into the kitchen<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019Sides, I was hungry and this stew Hop Sing cooked is what my belly was cravin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Paul made their way across the great room and took seats at the table and gratefully accepted the bowls of stew Joe placed in front of them; returning a few moments later with more coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Adam?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis fever broke a few minutes ago and he briefly regained consciousness.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid he say anything?\u201d Joe queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe spoke, but not enough to confirm anything,\u201d Paul stated, his expression dared Ben to say anything different. \u201cHe fell back asleep before I could ask him any questions.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Another twenty-four hours would pass before Adam showed any signs of regaining consciousness, and during that time, Joe\u2019s emotions twisted, flipped upside down and right-side-up, and turned inside and out. The moment he\u2019d come to an understanding another idea or thought would send him on another tangent that made no sense. It seemed his conversation with the good doctor was long forgotten. As he entered the house from tending to the horses in the barn, he heard his father call his name from the dining area of their home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?!\u201d Joe retorted, not paying any heed to the tone of voice he used to answer his father as he continued to move to the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding they were all under undue stress, Ben chose to ignore his youngest\u2019s tone, \u201cSupper\u2019s almost ready.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry,\u201d Joe stated as he placed his foot on the first step.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you should try to eat something,\u201d Ben said as he tried to entice his son to join him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy what?\u201d Ben replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do you care if I should eat something,\u201d Joe answered, not turning to look at his father, but stopped on the first step.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause you\u2019re my son,\u201d Ben answered, standing from the table and began to walk towards Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, so now I\u2019m your son,\u201d Joe\u2019s anger forced from him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve always been my son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo you say!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just what\u2019s that supposed to mean?!\u201d Ben\u2019s tone revealed his anger at his son\u2019s words.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joseph resumed his trek upstairs and only made it as far as the middle landing before Ben demanded an answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH! Stop right now! I don\u2019t understand your attitude young man!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter, you got your precious Adam\u2026 Your first born… What do you care about your second born or your third born for that matter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d Hoss called out as he came from the kitchen to hear his brother\u2019s declaration.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s true! He doesn\u2019t give a damn about the two of us any more\u2026 All he\u2019s cared about for the past twenty-four hours is Adam. Adam\u2026 I wish I\u2019d never met the man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe ya cain\u2019t mean that. If it weren\u2019t for Adam\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d be dead or Shanghaied and right now, that seems a hell of a lot better than living in this house!\u201d With that, Joe ran the rest of the way up the stairs and into his bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben began to follow his son up the stairs, but Hoss prevented him from going any farther, \u201cPa, let me handle him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, something\u2019s bothering him\u2026 I think this is just a cry for help and if you were to go up instead of me\u2026 it would set him off even more. But I appreciate your offering, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh Pa, you know he don\u2019t mean what he says half the time\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe may not mean it, but right now something\u2019s pushing him to think it. I\u2019ve barely spent any time with the two of you since Adam arrived\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam needs you more than we do\u2026\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEven if he isn\u2019t your brother?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Hoss considered carefully how to say what he wanted to say, \u201cI don\u2019t think there\u2019s any doubt that Adam is our brother. I made a comment to Joe, when we\u2019s comin\u2019 back, that Adam had the same way as you in gettin\u2019 his point across that the discussion was over. Ya know, the way you make us understand your word is final\u2026? \u2018Sides, who else but family would attempt to save Joe\u2019s ornery hide, twice.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks a lot, Hoss,\u201d Joe sarcastically retorted as he quickly made his way down the staircase with his saddlebags slung over his shoulder and evidently stuffed full.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere do you think you\u2019re going?\u201d Ben demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAway from here,\u201d Joe answered, brushing his way past Ben and Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh no you don\u2019t,\u201d Hoss stated as he grabbed Joe by the arm and reacted to the move he knew was coming. From years of having to get the upper hand in dealing with his emotional brother, Hoss knew a left hook was about to come his way and he was ready to grab Joe\u2019s flying wrist and take him down a peg or two.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLET GO OF ME!\u201d screamed Joe, he hadn\u2019t realized he\u2019d crossed the line and Hoss wasn\u2019t going to let him free; his vision tinged red with anger and animosity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot until you come to your senses,\u201d Hoss replied and gripped Joe tighter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re hurting me, Hoss!\u201d In the past Joe would have casually thrown those words at his brother, knowing how sensitive the big man was, but this time, he meant them as he grimaced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot nearly as much as your attitude\u2019s hurting Pa,\u201d Hoss replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he deserves it!\u201d Joe yelled, not thinking, just reacting to the emotions that had full control of his body and forced his common sense to evaporate; his responses were compounded by his fear of being unable to break free. \u201cDamn it Hoss, let me go!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hadn\u2019t finished his demand and didn\u2019t have time to react between Hoss letting go his hold on his brother and the backhanded slap he hurled with enough force that it sent Joe crashing into the credenza, at the same time Hoss yelled out, \u201cDON\u2019T YOU EVER!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Upstairs, Paul had started to the staircase to tell Ben that Adam was waking again, but hearing the argument from the first floor; his understanding of the dynamics of this family forced him into greater urgency.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS!\u201d Ben and Paul yelled at the same time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing over his younger brother, shoulders and chest heaving, finger pointing out from a fisted hand, Hoss threatened his brother, \u201cDon\u2019t you ever say that to Pa, ever again! You show him the respect he\u2019s due.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lay partly sprawled on the floor and partly sprawled against the credenza; dazed, eyes unfocused, buzzing in his ear, his vision fading. Hoss had turned his back to his brother and headed for the stairs when the darkness finally claimed full possession of Joe Cartwright.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul Martin sidestepped the big man as he made his way towards the smallest Cartwright. Ben was about to pick up the boy to cradle him in his arms when Paul warned him against moving his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me examine him before you move him,\u201d Paul advised. \u201cI\u2019ve never seen Hoss that angered before and\u2026 I don\u2019t even think he recognized the force with which he hit Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, what have I done?\u201d pleaded Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I\u2019m sorry, but right now, I don\u2019t have time for you\u2026\u201d All the while as he spoke, the doctor continued to examine Little Joe to make sure he\u2019d suffered no broken bones or irreparable injuries. His exasperation showed through when he told Ben, \u201cPlease, just go upstairs and sit with Adam\u2026 I came to tell you he was regaining consciousness when I heard the argument.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s waking?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was before I came downstairs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Joe needs me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen damn it Ben, make up your mind which is more important to you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey all are!\u201d an angered Ben retorted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen drop the pity-party and help me get Joe to the settee.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s okay to move?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor now, but I\u2019m sure he\u2019s going to have one hum-dinger of a headache when he finally wakes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs long as we\u2019re together\u2026 as a family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

A faint yellow light from the lowly wicked lantern slipped between the cracks of Adam\u2019s eyelids as Hoss sat in the chair next to the bed, watching as the man moved around as he woke up. When he felt weight shift the bed, Adam turned his head and tried to see who was there. With his eyes refusing to focus, Adam quietly stated, \u201cFather?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah, I ain\u2019t Pa, Adam. You take it easy and don\u2019t move around. Doc don\u2019t need ya bustin\u2019 open them stitches.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStitches? What happened?\u201d Adam groggily asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe was ambushed two days ago.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAmbushed? Is Joe alright? Did he get hurt again?\u201d Adam struggled to keep his eyes open, but he did remember the big man sitting on his bed, and the man\u2019s brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah, he weren\u2019t with us. Don\u2019t ya remember I was bringin\u2019 ya home to the Ponderosa to meet our Pa and maybe ask for a job\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlready have a job\u2026 in the Navy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but you\u2019re on leave. You wanted to explore the territory\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The whole situation frustrated and angered Ben, with the possibility that his oldest son had returned from the dead, his two sons who had grown up on the Ponderosa were now set to tear each other apart. Ben couldn\u2019t believe how muddled his life had become in just a few short days.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Joe was comfortably transferred to the settee, Ben took the damp towel offered by Hop Sing and placed it across Joe\u2019s forehead and waited. Twenty minutes passed before Joe showed the first signs of waking up and groaned as the sharp pain poked at the back of his skull.<\/span><\/p>\n

Opening his eyes, Joe saw his father worriedly looking at him and realized there was also a keen disappointment on his father\u2019s face. Turning his head to the left he saw Doc Martin sitting on the table, his hand moving towards Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, how many fingers am I holding up?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot enough,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u201d Ben asked, unbelieving Joe was getting ready to begin round two.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019re gonna tan me, you need to have all five, not just two fingers up.\u201d Looking to his father, Joe spoke, \u201cPa, I\u2019m sorry. I don\u2019t know what\u2019s gotten into me lately. I\u2019m all jumbled up inside. I don\u2019t know how to feel, how to react, what to say, do\u2026 I feel so\u2026 lost,\u201d tears slipped from the corners of Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to talk about it now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll leave you two alone,\u201d Paul stated as he rose to stand up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, please Doc\u2026 You helped me understand the other night\u2026 But there\u2019s just so much more and I\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, Joe?\u201d Ben lovingly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe he can help me help you understand why I felt like I did\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid?\u201d Paul inquired about the past-tense use of the word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m still confused, but I\u2019m not angry any more\u2026 and I think that\u2019s why I felt like I did\u2026 Like Pa didn\u2019t care about us anymore, because of Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I could never stop caring about you or Hoss. You\u2019re my sons\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know that, and I knew that\u2026 I guess it was just seeing that you didn\u2019t come in to check on Hoss\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were doing a fine job and I didn\u2019t want you to think I didn\u2019t trust you to take care of him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you sent me away\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen did I send you away?\u201d a perplexed Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen he came home shot. I wanted to help, but you sent me away.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, Joseph, Joseph\u2026 You have the fastest horse and you\u2019re the fastest rider on the ranch. Why wouldn\u2019t I send you to get Paul? As for your helping me with your brother, Joe, you know as well as I do that Hoss is no match for you, even when he\u2019s only teasing in wrestling with you, you can\u2019t get out from under him. And you thought you could help carry him inside? What if he\u2019d fallen on you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he\u2019d likely flatten me like a hotcake,\u201d laughed Joe, his senses having reclaimed their rightful place. \u201cPa, if Adam is your son\u2026 And our brother\u2026 Will he stay? Will he be a part of our family?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t answer that question. First, as Paul pointed out, he needs to recover from his wound. But in the long run\u2026 the choice and the decision is his.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI kinda thought you\u2019d say something like that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul had a question to ask, and he felt now was the right time, \u201cJoe, are you still feeling confused?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA little, but not as much as before, I guess Hoss pounded some sense into me\u2026 Where is he?\u201d Joe answered, worried about his brother not being there, hovering over him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was pretty angry when he went upstairs,\u201d Paul replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you help me up, so I can apologize to him too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men helped the younger man to stand and assisted him as he walked up the stairs. When they reached the top, they heard voices coming from the guest room.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Giving it another attempt, Adam tried to open his eyes and had better luck this time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere was another man\u2026 Maybe it was a dream\u2026 I dreamed I died and my father was here\u2026 waiting for me\u2026 Only\u2026 I don\u2019t remember him having such grey hair.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat weren\u2019t no dream and ya didn\u2019t die. Came near close to it, accordin\u2019 to Doc Martin.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas he your father?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep, and everyone of them grey hairs was given to him by Little Joe. Adam, you said your Pa died years ago\u2026\u201d Hoss continued the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam struggled to try to sit up, the pain he experienced forced him to inhale deeply, but that caused him pain too.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow don\u2019t you go tryin\u2019 ta sit up. We can talk just as good with you lyin\u2019 down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When the pain finally disappeared, Adam looked to his friend. \u201cWhy do you ask about my father?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause we think he\u2019s our Pa too,\u201d Hoss bluntly answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat can\u2019t be\u2026 My father probably died before you were born, and definitely, before Joe was born. Hey, can I have some water?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, sure.\u201d Hoss stepped to the dresser and poured Adam a glass of water. He returned to the bed, helped raise the man\u2019s head, and held the glass for him to drink. When Adam nodded his head, Hoss gently lowered it to the bed and set the glass aside. \u201cI\u2019ll leave it right here in case you get thirsty again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, what if you weren\u2019t told the truth about your Pa dyin\u2019?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t follow you\u2026.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember what all was said about when your Pa died?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPretty much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me asked you this\u2026 Your Pa had a new wife and a new child, and I\u2019m bettin\u2019 you were told they all were killed by Indians at Ash Hollow\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t remember where, but I do remember my grandfather\u2019s friend mentioning he had remarried and there was a child.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas your grandpa\u2019s friend named Jonathan Pryce?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, how\u2026?\u201d Adam tried to sit up again, but quickly refrained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause Mr. Jonathan Pryce was a friend of Pa\u2019s too. He sorta met Pa in New Orleans, seventeen, eighteen years ago and done told Pa that you and Abel Stoddard died of influenza the winter before\u2026 Pa said he got no reply to the wires he sent, askin\u2019\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I\u2019m still a little fuzzy here, but if I understand what you\u2019re trying to say\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat he\u2019s trying to say is that I believe\u2026 we believe that you\u2019re my son and a brother to these two,\u201d Ben stated as he entered the guest room. Ben didn\u2019t enter the room alone; he\u2019d wrapped a strong arm around Little Joe\u2019s waist, helping to support his youngest as he guided him to the chair by the bed. They were followed by Paul Martin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShortshanks, you okay?\u201d Hoss asked as he saw the still slightly dazed look upon his brother\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I deserved that,\u201d Joe remorsefully answered as he rubbed the back of his head and neck. \u201cI already apologized to Pa downstairs\u2026 I\u2019m sorry Hoss, I didn\u2019t mean to hurt you or Pa. I just didn\u2019t know what to do, or say, or anything. Everything was all twisted up inside a me and like that fizzy water in a bottle, it all came exploding out when it got shook too far.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you okay?\u201d Hoss asked, now concerned that he had really hurt his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe will be. Once this little reunion in over, I want him in bed\u2026 And then I want to examine my first patient.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As his two sons were making amends, Ben walked around to the opposite side of the bed, all the while Adam watched him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what to say,\u201d Adam stated while trying to stifle a yawn. \u201cHoss seems to think you\u2019re my father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is possible\u2026 You said you didn\u2019t remember me with grey hair\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPicture\u2026 Parents\u2026\u201d Adam was losing the battle with his body\u2019s desire to sleep so he could heal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I can\u2019t really think there would be two men named Adam Stoddard Cartwright. Adam, is your birthday\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam raised his hand to his head, pinching the bridge of his nose while he closed his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, it\u2019s too much, too soon,\u201d Paul interrupted. \u201cMy patient needs his rest. There will be time to discuss this when Adam can think fully and not be impeded by the medications I\u2019ve given him or from the pain he must be experiencing. Please, why don\u2019t you take Joe to his room and put him to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Before Paul finished speaking, Adam\u2019s arm had slipped down and he\u2019d fallen asleep. While the other Cartwrights left the room, Paul examined Adam\u2019s vital signs, listened to his heart and lungs one more time, and continued to be pleased with the results.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou must be related to Ben and his boys, you\u2019ve got as strong a constitution as any one of them,\u201d Paul said aloud to himself. \u201cAnd only a Cartwright can cause this much friction within this family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen it true?\u201d Hop Sing asked as he brought fresh towels into the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt would appear so\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Under his own power, Joe made it to the hallway before his legs gave out and buckled. Hoss was close behind, catching his brother under his armpits before he fell to the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe? Shortshanks? What\u2019s wrong?\u201d Hoss begged.<\/span><\/p>\n

Placing a hand on his large son\u2019s shoulder Ben stated, \u201cHoss, get him to his bed and we\u2019ll talk.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Hoss asked as he lifted his sibling and carried him to his room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben lifted his chin to indicate Hoss should do as instructed. Taking a deep breath, holding it, and slowly releasing it, Ben followed his boys to Joe\u2019s room.<\/span><\/p>\n

With great care, Hoss lowered Joe to his bed and stepped aside as Ben neared the bed. Once on top of the cover, Joe grabbed the sides of the bed in hopes of stopping his room from spinning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShortshanks?\u201d Hoss asked upon seeing his brother\u2019s distressed face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSick,\u201d Joe managed to speak as Ben reached for the basin and strategically positioned the bowl.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, get me a damp washcloth would you, please?\u201d Ben asked a few minutes later as he set the basin to the floor and sat on the edge of the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Moments later, Hoss handed the cloth to his father who proceeded to wipe his youngest son\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what\u2019s wrong with Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, we know you didn\u2019t mean it, but\u2026 I\u2019ve told you time and time again you have to consider everything you do when it comes to your strength and losing control of your emotions.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI lost control of my emotions, first, Pa,\u201d Joe tried to explain, not trusting to open his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019ve warned you time and time again about your emotions too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I just backhanded him\u2026 What he said\u2026 He had no right\u2026\u201d Hoss defended.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I agree that he had no right, but do you realize how hard you struck him? Do you even remember where you were standing when you backhanded him and the force it took for him to end up against the credenza?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Guilt flickered into Hoss as he looked to his hands and grief settled on him. \u201cI\u2026 coulda\u2026 Pa, how bad did I hurt him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was unconscious for about twenty minutes, Paul thinks he suffered a concussion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019m sorry\u2026 Joe, ya gotta know I didn\u2019t mean to hurt ya\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you did\u2026 Only I know I deserved it\u2026\u201d answered Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I get you anything?\u201d Hoss asked as he worriedly stood over his brother\u2019s bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, some of those powders Doc\u2019s always trying to cram\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d warned Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026get me to swallow,\u201d Joe finished answering.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once he\u2019d fixed a glass of the headache powders and given it to Joe to drink, Hoss sat on the other side of the bed and asked, \u201cJoe, why was ya sayin\u2019 all those things downstairs?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026\u201d Joe replied, settling into his pillows because of the way he began to feel uncomfortable with his brother\u2019s question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, Joe told me downstairs that he felt that I no longer cared about the two of you because I didn\u2019t come into your room to check on you. He thought I only cared about Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat cain\u2019t be farther from the truth\u2026 Joe, Pa came in lots a times, when you was sleepin\u2019. We talked about how good a care you were givin\u2019 me and he told me how Adam was a doin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slipped even deeper into his pillows at the revelation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I shoulda talked to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo guessin\u2019 about it little brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I leave you two together?\u201d Ben asked of his sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure Pa, I bet Paul would really appreciate it if you were to get some sleep\u2026\u201d Hoss encouraged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m about done in\u2026 Ever since the two of you returned from that cattle drive and told me about the ambush; it\u2019s a wonder I\u2019ve not been the one to lose all reasoning,\u201d Ben acknowledged. \u201cIf Paul needs me\u2026 or if you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll tell him you\u2019re being a good patient and taking a nap,\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I know you\u2019re here for us too, Pa\u2026\u201d Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shut the door as he exited the bedroom and allowed the two brothers time to heal the rift that had settled over them, all for a lack of failure to communicate.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Throughout the next several days, Adam continued to wake at regular intervals to find one of the Cartwrights or Hop Sing in the room with him. It had been some time since he remembered seeing the doctor in the room with him. Each inquired of him about how he was feeling; if he experienced any pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

He remembered the conversation from when he first truly regained consciousness and the revelation the big man had made about their fathers being one in the same. As he lay in bed, he felt conflicted, was it even remotely possible that here was his father who all these years he had believed dead…? Being a man who kept his feelings to himself, it was difficult trying to reconcile his mind-set while the Cartwrights openly voiced their mixture of attitudes, Ben anxious, Hoss accepting, and Joe\u2026 mercurial \u2013 one moment happy to have another brother, the next, angry he had been lied to.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lieutenant Adam Cartwright couldn\u2019t wait for Paul Martin to declare him well enough to travel; he needed to get away from the Ponderosa in order to think, so he could come to some kind of an understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n

He barely heard the sound as the door opened to reveal Hop Sing entering, carrying a pitcher of fresh water and clean towels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood Morning Hop Sing,\u201d Adam quietly called after the man had set his load aside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood Morning, Mr. Adam,\u201d Hop Sing replied and bowed deeply.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat time is it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe breakfast in one hour,\u201d Hop Sing answered. \u201cYou feel okay? Need I get Mr. Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo Hop Sing, I\u2019m actually feeling much better this morning. Can\u2019t wait to get out of this bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou no do until honored doctor say you can.\u201d Hop Sing waited by the bed, \u201cI get you something?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnswers\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ask Mr. Cartwright questions, he give good answers, answers you seek.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not so sure about that\u2026\u201d Adam resigned in response.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou not know if you no ask. Mr. Cartwright good man, good father. You be good son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat remains to be seen\u2026\u201d Adam slightly teased back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou no be bad son\u2026 Lit\u2019le Joe need good role model. Hoss good, you be better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you that convinced that I\u2019m\u2026 the long lost prodigal son returned?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot prodigal son\u2026 You make good life on boats\u2026 You long lost son and brother returned. You need them, they need you. You think on that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing opened the curtains and raised the window to let the morning sun and fresh air into the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll need proof\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProof in front of face.\u201d Adam saw that the oriental had picked up and held something leather in his hands and held it out to him. \u201cPicture inside, same\u2026 younger, but same.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam opened his leather portfolio and pulled out his two most cherished possessions that he could keep close to him, a photograph of his grandfather and the photograph of his parents on their wedding day.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam was able to spend more time awake, he asked for the Cartwrights to give him some privacy, he wanted time to think.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It had been over a week since Doctor Paul Martin had left the Ponderosa, confident that all his patients would recover. The bullet graze across Hoss\u2019 temple had healed leaving only a faint trace of a scar, Little Joe\u2019s dizzy spells and headaches had faded after a sound night\u2019s sleep; his wounds from his previous injuries well on their way to being healed. And Adam\u2026 Paul was thankful that the man had survived a wound that could just as easily have proved fatal.<\/span><\/p>\n

Halting his buggy in the main yard, Paul was greeted by Ben as the front door to the massive home opened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s my last patient?\u201d Paul greeted as he pulled his Gladstone bag from the seat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019s anxious to leave the Ponderosa,\u201d answered Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you spoken anymore about being your son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve tried, but he puts me off. I can tell it\u2019s a struggle for him. I can see so much of Abel in his mannerisms. Paul, I know he\u2019s my son\u2026 There\u2019s no court of law or anyone else who can convince me otherwise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI trust you Ben, but you need to allow Adam to come to that realization and you have to consider that he may not wish to embrace you as his father. Ben, think of it from his perspective\u2026 for a long time he\u2019s thought you dead.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I him\u2026\u201d Ben indignantly replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but you were an adult. He was a child; he probably wasn\u2019t even in his teens yet when he learned of your supposed death. With Abel as his guardian and only family he knew, he\u2019s made what I presume is a good life in the Navy. As much as you want to embrace him, you have to be just as willing to let him go. He\u2019s a grown man\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was speechless, for the past ten days, he\u2019d thought so much about how to include Adam as a member of the family. He hadn\u2019t given any thought that Adam may not wish to be a part of their lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRight now, I\u2019m going to go up and examine my patient\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll come with you,\u201d offered Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I know what all this means to you, but\u2026 I\u2019m going to have to ask you to stay down here\u2026 He\u2019s not Hoss or Little Joe. Give him time\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben finally agreed and remained outside in the yard while Doctor Martin entered their home.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cGood afternoon, Adam,\u201d Paul greeted as he entered the room and saw the man sitting up with multiple pillows propped behind him, reading the Territorial Enterprise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood afternoon, doctor. I guess I lost track of time\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s understandable. How are you feeling? Any pains, aches, fever?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe muscles across my chest ache and the only pain I feel is when the Cartwrights are in the room. I can see how much my being here is distressing the family,\u201d Adam replied as he folded the newspaper to set it aside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, it\u2019s not you being here that\u2019s distressing the family, it\u2019s the possibility of what you represent. They\u2019re good people and they\u2019re trying to show you that if you want to, they\u2019ll accept you as a member of their family. No questions asked.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally? That\u2019s all they seem to want to do is ask questions\u2026\u201d Adam answered, \u201cAnd I don\u2019t have all the answers they seek.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019m sure you have questions too, only\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m too stubborn to ask them? Is that what you were going to say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure fit the Cartwright mould\u2026 But enough of that. Would you open your shirt? If the wound looks healed enough, I\u2019ll remove the stitches today and allow you to begin getting out of bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen may I return to town?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want you riding a horse\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow about in your buggy? I did hear you arrive in a buggy, didn\u2019t I?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re really that anxious to get away from here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just need time alone and being alone in this room isn\u2019t exactly the same.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand. I\u2019ll let Ben know you\u2019ll be returning to town with me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Ben stood in front of his desk as he watched the doctor assist Adam as he made his way down the steps. He wanted one last effort to try to convince his son to stay.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, may I show you one last item before you leave?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking first to the doctor, Adam nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Bend picked up one of the three filigree framed pictures from his desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would ask that you take a look at the woman in this picture and tell me truthfully if this is a picture of your mother\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam felt the tension headache begin, yet he refrained from pinching the bridge of his nose. He hesitated before he looked to the picture held in front of him, and that act alone surprised him. He would have thought he\u2019d have quickly looked at the picture and just as quickly dismissed the notion that his man could be his father. But\u2026 when he looked at the picture, the smile, the eyes, the face, they were the same as the pictures he remembered from his years of living in his grandfather\u2019s house. The woman was the same as the one in his portfolio.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI need time\u2026\u201d Adam answered. \u201cCan we go now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul helped Adam across the floor, out the door, and into his buggy.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a heavy heart, Ben set Elizabeth\u2019s portrait back to his desk, walked over to his leather chair and collapsed. It was in the same repose that Hoss and Little Joe returned to the house to find Hop Sing trying to convince Ben to drink a glass of brandy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked up into the concerned faces of his sons and said, \u201cI lost him again\u2026\u201d Ben batted away the glass Hop Sing offered, told the others he wasn\u2019t hungry, and went upstairs to his room where he spent the rest of the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Upon returning to the International House, Adam inquired about the delivery of his trunk as well as if he had received any wires.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, but we haven\u2019t received anything for you Mr. Stoddard,\u201d the clerk answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have anything for a Lieutenant Cartwright, Lieutenant Adam Stoddard Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright\u2026 You related to Ben and his boys?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, just answer my question,\u201d Adam tiredly replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, yes, I do have some wires that came to the attention of Lieutenant Cartwright and we do have a trunk.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take my wires and if you\u2019ll have my trunk delivered to my room. Thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took the key and his wires from the clerk and proceeded up the staircase and to his room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright? He\u2019s a Cartwright?\u201d the clerk voiced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s a Cartwright?\u201d asked the slender, yet shapely woman who came from the bar adjoining the International House lobby.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat man… He checked in here two weeks ago as Adam Stoddard. Ain\u2019t seen hide nor hair of him for better\u2019n ten days and now he says his name is Adam Stoddard Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs he as good looking as Little Joe?\u201d the woman wistfully inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just how am I supposed to know? Callie, get back to earning your keep. The boss pays you good wages to entertain the customers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam tossed his hat and jacket upon the chair in the room before he walked over and lay on the bed. With the wires in his hands, he scanned the return address in an effort to determine which might be important. One wire immediately caught his eye as it bore the return address of the United States Navy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lieutenant Adam Stoddard Cartwright<\/span><\/em><\/span>
\n c\/o International House Hotel<\/span><\/em><\/span>
\n Virginia City, Nevada<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Lieutenant Cartwright, it pleases me to advise that your name has been selected as one of three finalists to command the U.S. Navy\u2019s latest steam sloop of war. The U.S.S. Pawnee is slated for completion in April 1860 and will be fully commissioned by June, and it would be with great honor that I could confer her captaincy upon you.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, this is a once in a life-time opportunity for you. Please do not give it up.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Respectfully,<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Rear Admiral John A. Dahlgren<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam had left the Ponderosa two days previous and still the tension existed within the house and Hoss worried for his younger brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat on the edge of Hoss\u2019 bed, careful not to talk so loud that their father might hear. \u201cHoss\u2026 Did you know anything about us having a brother? I mean\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo Joe, I didn\u2019t know anything until Pa told the both of us, when Doc was operating on Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you hadn\u2019t made it\u2026 I can\u2019t believe Pa let Doc operate on him first.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow hold it right there Joe, he was worse off than I was. Sides, I don\u2019t think Pa had a choice, Doc was the one who made the decision.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDecision or not, when I think of whoever shot you down in cold blood\u2026\u201d Joe involuntarily shivered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo as Roy says, leave it to the law.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if I can\u2019t?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy can\u2019t you? Joe, you don\u2019t even know who it was that shot us\u2026\u201d Hoss knew he was on the right track when Joe used the word can\u2019t instead of don\u2019t. \u201cYou just gonna go and shoot any stranger you see? That\u2019s cold hearted revenge and you\u2019d hurt Pa worse than he feels right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow so?\u201d Joe asked, his language and body posture returned to that of an adolescent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s hurtin\u2019 because for more years than you\u2019ve been alive, he\u2019s had another son that he had been told was dead. A son he loved as much as he loved us\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t he tell us about Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy tell us about a brother we\u2019d never get a chance to know?\u201d Hoss counter asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s got Elizabeth\u2019s picture on his desk\u2026 He coulda had a picture of Adam or at least told us about him, even if he was dead. Like he\u2019s got our momma\u2019s pictures.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, we were so young, what would you have really understood. It was bad enough after your momma died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe quietly remembered the days and weeks he clung to Hoss after Ben had left the ranch in order to come to terms with the grief of losing a third wife in death.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think Pa locked his grief away in his heart to spare us?\u201d Joe inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt makes a lot of sense, when you look at it that way. Still, ya hadn\u2019t aught a told him you didn\u2019t want him as a brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was just mad, mad that he would just up and leave. I didn\u2019t really mean it\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201dBut he doesn\u2019t know that\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe felt even guiltier.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

While the boys spoke in Hoss\u2019 room, Ben made plans of his own for the following morning. Ben rode to town with a part if his past tucked into his saddle bags. He entered the International House and inquired if Adam Stoddard or Adam Cartwright was still registered.<\/span><\/p>\n

He knocked on the third floor hotel room door and waited. It only took a few moments for him to hear, \u201cEnter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With the confidence he didn\u2019t feel, Ben entered the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I have no excuse for the past, only that, at the time, I thought what I did was right. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d Ben opened his saddle bags and pulled out the items he had brought with him. \u201cI pray that maybe these will explain better than I can. I can\u2019t keep my emotions from muddling what I want to say. These are yours; I want you to have them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood from where he sat to face the man and watched him place several books on the table in the middle of his hotel room and then\u2026 the man turned and left. He wasn\u2019t sure how much time had lapsed when he finally moved from where he\u2019d stood before the window; he fingered the leather bound books and picked one up. Opening it to where it was bookmarked, he saw the precise script at the top of the page bearing the date of his birth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Elizabeth, while you are upstairs with the doctor, it is with heartfelt joy and worry that I sit within the parlor of the house we share with your father. You have brought a joy into my life that I had not known existed, and now, that joy is about to be expanded upon. Will our baby be a daughter with your smile and warmth or will we have a son? I pray God will reflect within him your eyes and wisdom. Yet, I worry\u2026 The fall you took several weeks ago weighs heavily on my mind as does the words of warning from the doctor\u2026 The hours have passed and day has turned to night and still you struggle to bring a new life into the world\u2026 our world.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Continuing to read, Adam knew that time had elapsed between the two entries.<\/span><\/p>\n

Elizabeth, you gave me a son\u2026and named him Adam. But the worry I felt was only a harbinger of the dread I now feel\u2026 How do I face life without you? How do I raise your son, alone? The doctor brought Adelaide Callahan over this morning; she\u2019ll be your son\u2019s nanny; that should be you holding your son\u2026 not a stranger. Adam looks more natural in her arms as she took him from the room where he lay in the bassinet we purchased; more so than he does in my arms.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

We had dreams; it was supposed to be the three of us\u2026 I know I promised you I would fulfill my dream of heading west, but I can\u2019t. Daily I make the trip to the cemetery and talk to you\u2026 How can I leave you?<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued to read the journal and began to understand the grief this man had suffered after his wife\u2019s death, most of the entries were written to Elizabeth regarding the dreams that were now unfulfilled, words of a husband longing for what he lost. Words that expressed the awkwardness of holding the child and seeing that God had answered one of his prayers, the baby\u2019s eyes were as his mother\u2019s, though in time they changed from the blue all babies seemed to be born with to a deep brown. But as with his mother, the boy looked as if through his eyes he was peering in to one\u2019s soul.<\/span><\/p>\n

The hour was approaching midnight when he came to an entry around six months after his birth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Elizabeth, our dream still pulls at me; I\u2019ve tried to bury it, but it hurts so much to stay here by the sea\u2026 when as we\u2019d laid together we dreamed of the wide open land and the expanse of blue sky above us; the image pulls so strong at me. I tried to explain it to Abel tonight\u2026 He was there when you made me promise, yet tonight he argued against my leaving\u2026 He argued that it was a death sentence for both me and your son\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Your son\u2026 For some reason I see him as your son, not our son\u2026 I do love him, but he was your last gift to me, and through him I still cling to you\u2026 through him\u2026 through Adam. Can I really take our son out into the wilds of the new frontier? Would it be selfish of me to take Adam, as young as he is, into the unknown? And what of Adelaide? Would she see it as an adventure or would she be terrified at the prospect?<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adelaide has been a Godsend and after the death of both her husband, an accident on the wharf, and her daughter due to an illness, she moved into our home. Can I expose her and Adam to the dangers of traveling so far with our son being just an infant still?<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Elizabeth, tonight I shall sleep\u00a0and consider\u00a0the words that Abel said. I know you would understand my desire to fulfill my promise, but you must understand in my current condition I am a threat to our son. My dream pulls at me so much that I am a danger to myself as well as to Adam. Not that I would do anything to intentionally harm our son, but that today I wasn\u2019t focused and just walking across the street with Adam in my arms, I was almost struck down by a hansom cab. Maybe Abel is right, that I should go and find our dream, and once settled then I can send for the boy\u2026Our Adam. Abel stated that he will provide for Adam; ensure our son has a proper education as we dreamed of on those cold Boston winter nights as I felt him moving within your body. I have much to think on\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam ensconced himself within his hotel room for several days, only taking time to order an occasional meal from room service and barely sleeping. He came to the entries where Ben wrote of meeting Inger and unbelievably fell in love with the Swedish woman. He wrote of working for the man McWorter and how he realized the man was scheming to steal the store away from Inger, with her brother as fool in allowing it to happen in the hopes that his sister would marry McWorter. Ben\u2019s words expressed the doubt he held within himself that he could truly love another and not betray the memory of his first love. But he couldn\u2019t deny his heart. Before they wed, he wrote of telling Inger of Adam and how excited she was to know that she was already a mother, and the plans they made to bring Adam into their life.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam turned the page of the journal, a small sheet of stationery fell out. Picking it up and opening it, he immediately recognized the precise script of his grandfather.<\/span><\/p>\n

Benjamin,<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

It is good to hear of your wedding, now many months past. I write this letter in hope it reaches you at the next destination of your journey. I tell you that Adam is growing into a fine young man that you can be proud of, he has started school and his teacher gives him high praise for his eagerness to learn. He is so much like Elizabeth in that fact.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

As for his schooling, I can\u2019t keep the boy in books, he reads so far in advance of others his age. He has a curious mind and asks all sorts of questions of those he meets, he seems drawn to building things, and yet\u2026 I see the gleam in his eyes when I take him down to the wharf to watch the tall ships sail into the harbor. Will he follow us eventually to a life at sea? I do not know, but here\u2026 He is thriving in his life in Boston and I share with him each of your letters so he knows that you think of him often.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

As for your request, it is generous, but at this time I must decline. For the same reasons you accepted prior to your departure from Boston, I must also reiterate, the journey is too dangerous and you are not settled. Once you and Inger have arrived and made a home for yourselves, I will consider bringing the boy to you myself, but not until that time. I know my words will upset you, but it is for the boy that I must force myself to make this decision.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Abel Stoddard<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Sitting in the wing-backed chair in front of the window, with the sun beginning to paint the morning sky, Adam fell asleep reading of Ben finding out that Inger was carrying his child, and of his grief for having left his son behind, but he kept Adam in his heart. Adam read of the trials in crossing the country via wagon and came to an entry where Inger was injured and Ben wrote of his fears that she might have lost the child. Numerous journal entries later, Adam read of Eric\u2019s birth and shortly thereafter he read of Inger\u2019s death at Ash Hollow and Ben\u2019s grief at having now lost two wives.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inger, like Elizabeth, you gave me a son, and as your brother Gunnar suggested, maybe I will call him Hoss, he certainly is growing big enough. But\u2026 he is so different than his brother Adam. Adam, my son from Elizabeth\u2026 My heart breaks as I think of him so far away, but how would I manage raising two boys without the aid and love of my wife. My heart is doubly torn as I have received Abel\u2019s latest letter. What kind of a father am I, if I were to tear Adam away from the only life he has known\u2026? He has such a bright future with Abel, and I don\u2019t even know if my final destination has a school\u2026 Inger, with your loss, my dream of a new land and a family seems tarnished\u2026 It doesn\u2019t burn as bright.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Know this, there is nothing around Ash Hollow but barren land, and yet here is where you will lie, forever. This is not the dream we came to believe in; I cannot stop here. And still, I am torn to think of settling here. But if I did, I would be that much closer to being reunited with Adam. I pray God will give me guidance on what to do. Without you\u2026 I am lost.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

A new day dawned before Ben wrote in his journal.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inger I felt your presence last night, as well as that of Elizabeth; I am thankful that God allowed you to help me, I came to a decision \u2026 This is not the land we dreamed about, I will continue to head west, with Eric. Mrs. Morganson has agreed to watch over Eric during the days while I\u2019m driving our team or when I hunt for food. I will find our home where both my sons can be reunited and we can be a family.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The following morning Adam pulled out a different journal to begin reading.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inger, Hoss turned five yesterday, and still I think of Adam. It has been almost a year since I\u2019ve heard any news from Abel concerning him. I know that the mail service is as hazardous as our journey west to settle here at Mormon Station. There is no army close and the settlers in the area are forced to rely upon each other. Several of the families have given up and moved on to California or returned east. But this land, it is as Elizabeth and I originally dream, and the dream that you accepted and eagerly looked forward to sharing. The land tests a man and yet it is as beautiful as I dreamed it would be; as beautiful as the two loves of my life. Our little Hoss isn\u2019t so little, the newcomers who see him when we go to town think he\u2019s twice his age due to his size; it must be his Swedish heritage. I dare say one day he will stand taller than me.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Another entry read,<\/span><\/p>\n

It is with much grief that I put pen to paper to write that I had to bury a good friend of mine today, Jean deMarigny was as a brother to me and before he died within my arms he asked that I travel to New Orleans to inform his wife of his death. I didn\u2019t even know he was married. I guess I can combine the trip into one of commerce to trade many of the pelts I have accumulated through the past three seasons\u2026 But New Orleans is so far\u2026 But Jean was as a brother\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

I think I\u2019ll write one more letter to Abel, Adam would be nearing eleven and I believe I am settled enough that hopefully by the time I arrive in New Orleans Abel will have received the letter and agreed to travel to the port city with Adam. It\u2019s about time we were a family.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The next entries were of Ben\u2019s experiences as he traveled to New Orleans. Adam began reading the entry from Ben\u2019s first full day in the port city and was shocked to discover what his father had written. Here was the proof, the truth that Hoss had mentioned to him earlier.<\/span><\/p>\n

How do I write what is in my heart. I am so far from Boston and can\u2019t believe that of all people I would encounter Jonathan Pryce. I remember the times he attempted to court Elizabeth before she finally told him her heart was already promised to another \u2013 me. But the news Jonathan bore to me was just as devastating to me as Elizabeth\u2019s rejection must have been to him. The news explains why I\u2019ve not heard from Abel, he and the child both died from influenza this past winter. It\u2019s been almost a year since Adam died\u2026 and I didn\u2019t know. Jonathan experienced a loss too, he lost his beloved wife, Corrine. That was why he was in New Orleans, to escape her ever present memories.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Though it had been years since Jonathan and I had seen each other, our own miseries (mine new, his month\u2019s old) prevented us from wanting to spend any more time together.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

My son, My Adam, I can\u2019t believe that you are dead. I hope that your mother, my Elizabeth, was there to greet you as you entered into His Heavenly Kingdom. Know that I truly believe one day we will all be reunited\u2026until then my son.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam set the journal down and felt at a loss. Through his father\u2019s journals he came to understand his life had been impacted by the primary love of his father and grandfather to see him safe. The decisions both men made had the same basic desire, neither man had wanted any harm to befall him; and\u2026 \u201cI have lived a good life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The one who had truly harmed him was Jonathan Pryce, a friend of his grandfather. The man who had told Abel that Ben and his wife had been killed in an Indian raid. This man was the same Jonathan Pryce who had told Ben that Adam and Abel were dead. As he looked at the photograph of his parents on their wedding day one last time, Adam realized why the man had lied. He wanted to hurt Ben as much as Elizabeth had hurt him by rejecting his love in favor of a life with Benjamin Cartwright.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Several days had passed before Ben\u2019s entries resumed within his journal, but the passion and flourish of his previous writings were missing. There was no life left to the man, only the transactions to sell the pelts and finally to find Jean deMarigny\u2019s widow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben wrote of the audacity of the woman he encountered on the street and how she boldly rode her horse and encouraged it to rear. The lack of fear she showed as the animal rose high within the air and returned to the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next day he wrote of meeting Madame deMarigny, Jean\u2019s mother, and how he felt the woman was arrogant and held her station in life over everyone else. Included within the journal were the events surrounding Ben\u2019s meeting with Eduard D\u2019Arcy as well as Marius Angerville. While meeting with various friends and acquaintances of Marie, he uncovered the decades old deception underlying the estrangement between her and Jean. Ben wrote of confronting those in New Orleans responsible for the ruse, and his efforts to prove Marie an honorable woman. Adam read of the subsequent death of Marius and Ben\u2019s duel with Eduard. Ben wrote of how blind he was over the past few weeks, he hadn\u2019t realized that he was falling in love with Jean\u2019s widow. He wrote of his guilt in with how people would interpret his actions as taking advantage of the young distraught woman. But after Marius\u2019 death and as he held the woman in his arms, he realized that he did truly love her and she him.<\/span><\/p>\n

God, I know our love must be right or else you would not have allowed this to happen. Have you brought the two of us together to heal our hurts, mine for the loss of my son Adam and Marie for the loss of her husband and the loss of a dear friend?<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Once I have settled all my obligations in New Orleans, I will take Marie as my wife, a mother for my son Hoss, and we will live our lives together outside Mormon Flats.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s journals continued, but Adam wondered about when they had moved to Virginia City and established the Ponderosa. Ultimately, Ben wrote of how the populace decided against the town\u2019s name and decided they wanted to be something bigger, better, and not erroneously tied to a religion and thus, Virginia City was born.<\/span><\/p>\n

It had been over a week since Adam was pronounced sufficiently healed to return to town, and five days since he\u2019d began reading Ben\u2019s journals. A peace settled over Adam, yes he was thankful for the life and opportunities provided by Abel, and he could now be happy with the knowledge that he had a father and two brothers\u2026 A brief pall cast over him as he remembered the conversation he\u2019d held with Hoss regarding the troubles Little Joe got himself into\u2026 Mere moments passed, when Adam smiled and thought, \u2018that\u2019s little brothers for you.\u2019 He looked forward to really getting to know Hoss and Joe, not just as Cartwrights, but as brothers; and so he continued to read Ben\u2019s journals.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Having sufficiently fulfilled his curiosity through the journals, Adam didn\u2019t know exactly what he planned, but he hoped all would be well by the time the day was over. As he walked down the staircase he smiled when he saw Hoss Cartwright sitting in one of the chairs in the lobby.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Hoss,\u201d Adam greeted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Adam,\u201d Hoss replied nervously replied as he stood to his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat brings you to town?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought that\u2026 Well, I got this feelin\u2019 that Joe\u2019s gone and done somethin\u2019 stupid,\u201d Hoss shuffled his feet at the discomfort his was feeling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAgain?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, again. He don\u2019t mean it\u2026 But when he gets a notion\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe just reacts. What\u2019s he done now?\u201d Adam laughingly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne of the men was out ridin\u2019 fence with Joe this mornin\u2019, and they spotted two strangers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe thought they might be the ones who ambushed us?\u201d Adam asked. For some reason he knew the strangers weren\u2019t \u2018just\u2019 strangers and if anyone were to ask him how he knew, he wouldn\u2019t have been able to give them any fitting answer, just that he knew.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe recognized Warrior,\u201d answered Hoss. \u201cAdam, if it was Warrior, these are the men who ambushed us…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026 on our way back from San Francisco. How long ago?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEarly this mornin\u2019. Thought you\u2019d like to come with us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I ask why?\u201d Adam had left the Ponderosa without any kind of a commitment to the family. When he left he didn\u2019t honestly know how he felt, except for the confusion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re our brother, aren\u2019t you?\u201d Hoss stated the fact plain and simple. \u201cPa\u2019s over with Roy, says we cain\u2019t exactly get a posse together because they ain\u2019t done nothin\u2019 wrong\u2026 in his town\u2026 But\u2026 if they are who we think they are\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me get Sport\u2026\u201d Adam answered as he placed his hat upon his head and hurried across the lobby; his heart knew where he should be.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he followed the man, a tinge of embarrassment appeared on Hoss\u2019 face when he said, \u201cI got him already saddled out front.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou knew I\u2019d agree to come?\u201d Adam asked, slightly bewildered. It was going to take some getting used to the fact he had a family and it appeared they knew him better than he knew them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa already done saved his hide twice before\u2026\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, what\u2019s a third time?\u201d Adam concluded with a hint of amusement which turned serious when he remembered the reason why they were standing together.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two brothers exited the hotel; leading their horses they hurried towards the Sheriff\u2019s Office and saw their father standing with the sheriff and two of their ranch hands. Both ranch hands were alternately taking turns telling Roy of following the path Joe took and finding him in a whole lot of trouble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at Adam standing next to Hoss; he dared not ask the question he wanted to.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go save our baby brother\u2019s scrawny hide,\u201d suggested Adam as a large, serious smile appeared on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, let\u2019s go save his scrawny hide so Pa can tan it good,\u201d Hoss guffed as he slapped Adam on the back, causing the man to slightly wince at the force of the impact. Though the gunshot wound to his chest was thoroughly healed, he wasn\u2019t prepared for the new wound that festered in his heart, worry for a sibling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure you\u2019re up to this, Adam?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it\u2019s about time I accepted that I have a family. I lived a good life with my grandfather and now\u2026 Once we rescue Little Joe we can talk about what happens next.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Revelation\u2026 Chapter 4 \u2013 Could it Get Any Worse?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe? Joe?!\u201d Murphy hollered and followed as Joe ran away from where they had been working to repair the broken fence towards the tree line where Cochise was tethered in the shade. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?! We gotta finish fixing this fence!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s my horse!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know Cochise is your horse,\u201d Murphy called back, concerned about his employer\u2019s youngest son; it was still early in the morning so the heat of the day and the sun couldn\u2019t be affecting him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThose two strangers\u2026\u201d Joe pointed towards two riders who Murphy could barely make out against the background of the hills. \u201cWarrior! One\u2019s riding my horse\u2026\u201d Joe swung into the saddle and gave chase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d Murphy yelled as he took a moment to tighten the cinch for his saddle before reaching for the reins. By the time the ranch hand climbed into the saddle Joe and the two men were racing farther away. Murphy turned his horse and followed after them.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Earlier that morning, Virgil Cashel and Henry Collingwood followed the two riders as they left the front yard of the massive ranch house, they\u2019d waited for better than two weeks to see a small rider on a pinto head out alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Keeping an eye on the two riders as they rode side by side was easy as they casually made their way towards the south pasture. Once it was obvious where the two were heading, Virgil and Henry urged their horses ahead so they could spring the trap they had planned. Within their saddlebags were leather gloves and wire cutters. All they had to do now was wait and the riders didn\u2019t fail them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure about this, Virg?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure. We ride close enough for him to see his horse, and he\u2019s ours.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat of the other?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cForget him; it\u2019s the kid we want.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut if he comes after us too\u2026?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen use your gun, but I WANT THAT KID!”<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Sixteen-year old Joseph Cartwright urged Cochise forward as he gave chase to the two riders he had spotted in the distance. The fact that two strangers were so far into Ponderosa territory and away from any roads didn\u2019t enter into the young man\u2019s reasoning, all he knew was he recognized his horse and wanted it back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Cooch,\u201d encouraged Joe as he laid as low as he could along his horse\u2019s neck, the saddle horn pressing into his belly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat up in the saddle as the terrain changed and he needed to help guide his horse through the field of boulders and clumps of tall grass. The land grew barren by the time the riders disappeared around a bend and Joe felt he could urge his horse on again. As he passed the rise of boulders, Joe looked over his shoulder as a memory of a comment made by Hoss flickered into his mind, \u2018Make sure they ain\u2019t waiting behind ya when you round a blind bend.\u2019 Unfortunately, before he could face forward again, the rope stretched across the pass at chest level swept him from Cochise\u2019s back. The air was driven from his lungs as his body slammed into the ground and his vision faded in and out before it returned to normal.<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, Joe rose to his feet and looked around, trying to regain his senses. When he finally succeeded, two riders stood over him with one holding the reins to Cochise and an unholstered weapon.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Having witnessed the two strangers capturing Little Joe, Murphy raced his horse towards the main house of the Ponderosa and was thrilled when he met Crawley and Albert on the road.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCrawley!\u201d Murphy yelled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s up?\u201d Crawley called back, bringing his horse to a halt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa gotta get word\u2026 to Mr. Cartwright! Little Joe\u2026 spotted two riders\u2026 said one of them\u2026 was riding\u2026 Warrior!\u201d Murphy called back out of breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Where is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe went after them! They got \u2018em\u2026 Knocked him off his horse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFool kid\u2026 Albert go warn Mr. Ben, tell him Little Joe\u2019s in trouble. We\u2019re gonna go get Roy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHE WHAT?!\u201d Ben yelled after listening to Albert tell them what Murphy had relayed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss Cartwright had stood right beside his pa and listened to what Albert had to say and dread grew in the pit of his stomach. \u201cPa, Joe\u2019s in trouble\u2026 If those men had Warrior\u2026 They\u2019s gotta be the ones who ambushed us when we\u2019s on our way back from San Francisco\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, could they also be the men who ambushed you and Adam\u2026?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa? If they are who you think they are, Joe\u2019s in real danger. We gotta get Roy and a posse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet mounted!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Virgil Cashel sat upon his horse, his revolver casually held within his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook what we got here, Henry. Looks like the young pup fell offa his horse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet off my horse!\u201d Joe seethed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour horse? Why, your horse is right here.\u201d With the gun in his hand, Virg pointed towards Cochise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe horse you\u2019re sitting on is my horse, and I bet that\u2019s my saddle too. I want my horse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGee Henry\u2026 We come all this way\u2026 after finding this nice horse wandering loose\u2026 and this pup don\u2019t even thank us kindly for rescuing it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe wouldn\u2019t have needed rescuing if you hadn\u2019t\u2026\u201d Realization hit Joe like a lightning bolt. If these men had Warrior, then they were probably the ones who had originally ambushed them, and it made very good sense that these men were possibly the ones who had ambushed Hoss and Adam. \u201cWhy you lousy, no good\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Virgil stepped down from his horse, \u201cJoseph\u2026 You don\u2019t mind me calling you Joseph, do you? See, you and your brother and that other fella, ya just shouldn\u2019t a done what you did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did we do? You attacked us!\u201d spat Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou killed my little brother and now you\u2019re going to pay.\u201d Virgil slipped his revolver into his holster as he turned to pull his lariat from his saddle. Joe bolted from a standstill towards the man in hopes of catching him unaware, forgetting about his partner who still held a gun on him. Warrior reared up, when he saw Joe give him the cue, and frightened the horse Henry was riding. Henry startled and before he could regain control of his horse, his finger squeezed the trigger, discharging the weapon directly at Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d ya go and do that?!\u201d demanded Virgil upon seeing Joe lying face down in the dirt, blood spreading across the back of his shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean it\u2026 But\u2026 You wanted him dead anyway\u2026 What\u2019s it matter?\u201d Henry replied as he stepped from his horse and knelt by the prone figure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted him to suffer\u2026 I wanted to be the one making him suffer!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you can still do that\u2026 Don\u2019t look like he\u2019s dead.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After Henry rolled Joe over to his back, both men saw their target\u2019s chest rise and fall.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

A small posse with three Cartwrights, two of their ranch hands, and Roy Coffee left Virginia City heading to where Murphy had last seen the youngest Cartwright.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The posse halted short of where Murphy pointed, allowing Hoss to walk over to the scene to examine the area without contamination from all the other horses and riders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like a fella came off his horse\u2026\u201d Hoss announced. Bending down he picked up a pearl handled revolver. \u201cI think its Joe\u2019s,\u201d and slipped the revolver into the waist of his pants.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat else do you see, son?\u201d Ben called over, anxiously sitting upon Buck. It took all his inner resolve not to jump down from his horse and race over to Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThree horses over here, one set a boots here\u2026 Looks like one of the riders stepped down, and then this fella took off towards him. He fell\u2026 Pa, there\u2019s blood here\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben could no longer sit in the saddle; he jumped down and ran to where Hoss knelt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Grievously Hoss told his father. \u201cThis fella landed here, the other man got down from his horse and knelt here,\u201d pointing to the knee and toe impressions in the dirt, \u201cHe rolled him over and that\u2019s the blood. I guess from here, they picked him up\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, Roy, Adam and the others approached as Ben and Hoss walked farther away from them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, which direction did they head?\u201d Roy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSouthwest. They headed southwest from here,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas it Joe who was shot?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks that way. If it were Joe doing the shootin\u2019\u2026\u201d Hoss left his sentence unfinished. He didn\u2019t know exactly what would have happened next, had Joe been the shooter. But he was also torn to realize the \u2018fella\u2019 he had so casually made reference to was his baby brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

The posse set off at a slower pace in order to give their horses time to recover from their exertions to get from town to where Joe was ambushed, but they were following the tracks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow can you be so sure?\u201d Adam inquired as he rode next to Hoss who was always looking down at the trail.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow can I be so sure of what?\u201d Hoss replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat we\u2019re following your brother\u2019s trail. That these tracks aren\u2019t someone else\u2019s\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFirst off\u2026 He\u2019s OUR brother. Secondly, two of these horses wear shoes that got notches. Whenever Joe\u2019s horses are re-shod, we specially notch the shoes so we can always tell his horses\u2019 prints from any other horse.\u201d Seeing the expression on Adam\u2019s face, Hoss told him why. \u201cWhen Joe was eleven, he ran away and was missing for a couple a days\u2026 Once we found him, Pa decided that there had to be some way of tracking him, should he run away again or if anything were to happen to him on his way home from school. That\u2019s when Pa came up with the idea of notching the shoes. Especially since Pa was livid, we found Joe having the time of his life camping out in one of the caves\u2026\u201d Hoss abruptly halted Chubs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Hoss?\u201d Ben asked as he barely avoided riding Buck into the back of his son\u2019s horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe caves\u2026 Dadblasted, the caves Pa!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had watched Hoss\u2019 demeanor change from one of worry to one of excitement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe caves\u2026\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen Joe ran away\u2026. I was tellin\u2019 Adam about Joe runnin\u2019 away and how we can tell Joe\u2019s horses from anyone else\u2019s horse\u2026 The caves!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was still confused as Hoss urged Chubs into a run; the others were slow to react, but they ultimately urged their horses on in order to follow Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Boulders interspersed through a large stand of Ponderosa pines that stretched towards the heavens blocked the flat land the posse had been riding across. The posse had no choice but to follow Hoss and dismounted their horses just before he entered the thick stand of trees.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe walk from here,\u201d Hoss stated as Ben and the others joined him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, what about the caves\u2026?\u201d Ben asked reaching out and taking hold of his son\u2019s arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho ever took Joe had to take him somewhere\u2026 Right?\u201d He paused, giving Ben time to agree with him. \u201cThey wouldn\u2019t take him to any of our line shacks, us and the hands are in and out of them all the time\u2026 But the caves\u2026 Don\u2019tcha see Pa, they probably found the caves and I\u2019m sure that\u2019s where they done took Joe. Don\u2019tcha remember when Joe done run away and we found him in the caves?\u201d The whole time he explained, Hoss walked in the direction of the caves. \u201cSee Pa? That\u2019s either Cochise\u2019s or Warrior\u2019s prints, and there\u2019s another.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re right Hoss,\u201d Ben stated, having made their way through the dense forest as it opened to reveal the prints and just beyond the caves Hoss remembered.<\/span><\/p>\n

The posse rushed back into the tree line when they heard voices coming from one of the caves.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, what do you think?\u201d Hoss whispered, pointing towards the men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEverything happened so fast\u2026 and it\u2019s been over three weeks\u2026 I don\u2019t know. They could be the ones\u2026\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Roy?\u201d Ben asked, \u201cHow do you suggest we proceed?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFirst we need to make sure they have Little Joe and they\u2019re not just a couple of hapless travelers,\u201d suggested Roy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just how would hapless travelers have both Cochise and Warrior?\u201d hissed Hoss as he pointed to the horses tethered on the far side of the caves, just inside the tree line that butted up against the exterior of the cave.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suggest we steal their horses away and tie them with ours,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood idea,\u201d voiced Roy. \u201cCrawley, you and Murphy, make your way quiet like and take their horses back to ours. It probably wouldn\u2019t be a bad idea to bring all the horses to just in side of this stand of trees, be a lot closer. But keep \u2018em quiet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill do,\u201d Murphy answered as he and Crawley made their way through the trees to get the three horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen what?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe wait\u2026 We wait until we make sure they positively have Little Joe,\u201d answered Roy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd in the mean time? He could be bleeding to death,\u201d Adam fervently replied. \u201cWe need to get in there so we can rescue him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure must be a Cartwright, just as hardheaded and as stubborn. Look, the sun will be setting soon; there ain\u2019t no moon due out tonight\u2026\u201d explained Roy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Adam, that\u2019s right. In the dark, we can slip into the cave and rescue Joe,\u201d Hoss happily agreed with the plan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if Joe\u2019s not in there?\u201d worried Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, then we back track and find where they left him\u2026\u201d Hoss voiced and his shoulders fell as he realized the implication of what he just said; the men may have left his brother because he was already dead. And in his rush to get to the caves, he took a shortcut and his brother\u2019s body was out there abandoned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d Adam placed his hand upon the large man\u2019s shoulder, \u201cKeep the faith. He\u2019s a Cartwright\u2026 He\u2019s a fighter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The sun had set and the dark blanket of night settle across the land as Adam and Hoss, followed by Ben and Roy traversed the span of land to the opening of the cave. With guns drawn, Adam and Hoss entered while Ben and Roy waited.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inside, they crouched along the walls as they followed the natural hewn tunnel and walked farther into the darkness and shortly the back of the cave began to glow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked over to where he hoped Hoss would be on the opposite wall and held his index finger in front of his mouth to indicate quiet. He barely made out Hoss nodding in response. Simultaneously, they inched their way forward and were startled to hear the sounds of a fight. It took a moment for the scene to register; the big man held Joe by the front of the shirt and punched him hard against the jaw, forcing his head to snap sideways. Both men rushed forward, holstering their weapons as they entered the m\u00eal\u00e9e. Another punch to the jaw rattled Joe\u2019s head before the newcomers drew his assailant\u2019s attention. Hoss took on the larger man who had been throwing punches at his little brother while Adam ran after the man who had stood to the side, watching.<\/span><\/p>\n

Virgil Cashel threw punch for punch with Hoss Cartwright, but his punches weren\u2019t as effective as Hoss\u2019 and soon, the man who almost matched the middle Cartwright brother in size found himself too weak to continue. Barely able to raise his hands to indicate he was giving up; the man stumbled backwards until the wall stopped him and he slid to the ground in defeat.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright ran after Henry Collingwood as the man made his way to the front of the cave in an effort to escape. Henry pulled his revolver and fired blindly into the dark before facing forward as the opening loomed in front of him. Henry made it out of the tunnel when he felt weight slam into him and then the sensation of falling and abruptly stopping as he hit the ground and the weight immediately landed upon him.<\/span><\/p>\n

An exhausted Joe Cartwright stood on his feet which were wide apart, his knees bent towards each other, arms hanging from his shoulders, his torso tilted forward, and heavily breathing. From years of watching his older brother in bar room brawls, Joe felt comforted that his brother was there to protect him. Not having any strength to walk away, Joe collapsed and lay on the ground, watching the fight.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

With his foe down for the count, Hoss turned his attention to his little brother, \u201cShortshanks?\u201d as he knelt next to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d Joe pitifully cried, his arms wrapped around his middle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere ya hurt?\u201d the big man asked as he gently pulled his brother into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want Pa,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know ya do, and I\u2019ll take ya to him,\u201d Hoss replied. \u201cBut first I gotta know, where ya shot?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In barely a whisper Joe said, \u201cBack left shoulder.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I take it the big fella over there usin\u2019 ya as a punchin\u2019 bag hit you in the stomach as well as your pretty face\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRibs too\u2026 Pa, I want Pa,\u201d Joe\u2019s voice silenced and he went limp in Hoss\u2019 arms and his brother tenderly lifted him from the ground in order to carry him to their pa.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhere\u2019s my son?!\u201d hissed Ben Cartwright as he reached for the man\u2019s arm and twisted it behind the man\u2019s back. \u201cWhere\u2019s my son?!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Unable to properly breathe for having the breath knocked out of him when Ben landed on him, Henry barely managed to say, \u201cInside.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet a torch!\u201d Ben yelled as he twisted the man\u2019s arm harder and only released the pressure when he heard the man cry out in agony.<\/span><\/p>\n

A few moments later, after cuffing his prisoner, Roy put together a makeshift torch and the two men cautiously entered the cave. Following the tunnel, Ben knelt down when they came to the prone figure of a man lying on the ground; he emitted a desolate gasp when he recognized the clothing. Ben exhaled in relief when he heard Adam groan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? \u2026Son?\u201d Ben quietly called out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 What happened?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou tell us\u2026\u201d Roy suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI tripped and thought I heard a gunshot.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe heard it too. Did he hit you? Are you wounded?\u201d Roy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly my pride,\u201d Adam mumbled as he sat up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Roy stared at the man who began rubbing his temple.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I tripped I must have rolled my ankle and fell into the wall. Guess I knocked myself out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Joe and Hoss?\u201d inquired Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe\u2019re here Pa,\u201d Hoss answered carrying his little brother in his arms. \u201cOne of them is back there, waiting for you Roy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph?!\u201c breathed Ben as he stood and rushed to his other sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I\u2019ll let you take care of your boys, sounds like I have another prisoner to take care of.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s just sleepin\u2019 Pa. He talked to me for a few moments\u2026 They was beatin\u2019 him up back there, he tried Pa\u2026 He really tried.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut the blood, was he shot?\u201d worried Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe back of his shoulder. It\u2019s stopped, but the bullet is still in him,\u201d replied Hoss, his brother still in his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

The four Cartwrights waited where they were as the tunnel darkened when Roy, with the torch, made his way to the back of the cave. A few minutes later, the tunnel brightened indicating Roy\u2019s return with his prisoner.<\/span><\/p>\n

In front of the cave, Roy pushed his prisoner over next to the man\u2019s partner; Crawley stood over the man as he sat defeated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, do you mind if your hands help me get these two to town?\u201d Roy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh, oh, no, no,\u201d Ben distractedly answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Behind them, Roy and the Ponderosa hands were seeing that the prisoners were settled upon their horses, hands tied to the saddle horns.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? Thanks, for helpin\u2019 me rescue Joe,\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t need rescuing, was doing just fine,\u201d the older Cartwrights heard from their family member they thought was asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome. How is Joe?\u201d Adam asked, ignoring the youngest Cartwright\u2019s declaration.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNeeds the doc,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine\u2026\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo you\u2019re not. You\u2019ve been shot and the bullet is still in there,\u201d Ben worriedly stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat and I can feel ya gettin\u2019 warm Shortshanks,\u201d Hoss announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take him on Buck,\u201d Ben stated as Murphy brought the Cartwright horses into the opening. \u201cHoss hand him up to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, first wrap him in my jacket,\u201d Adam offered as he felt the chill of the night settling around them.<\/span><\/p>\n

As fast as they dared travel during the middle of the night, the Cartwrights made their way home with their wounded after Roy announced that once in town he would see that Crawley or Murphy told Paul Martin he was again needed at the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t forget to bring Warrior back!\u201d Joe weakly shouted before they separated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe fell into an uneasy sleep and kept calling out for his Pa or Hoss, but what surprised Ben the most was hearing his youngest calling out for Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re all right here, Joseph,\u201d Ben announced as he hugged his son closer and kissed him upon the top of his head. \u201cWe\u2019re all right here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they reached home, Hop Sing quickly opened the front door having waited for hours for the family to return. The lanterns lit the porch and the great room as the two oldest brothers followed their father who carried Joe inside, and to Joe\u2019s bedroom. Once the ever faithful servant had been informed of Joe\u2019s condition, he set about making arrangements for items the revered doctor would need; towels, lanterns, hot water\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Dawn\u2019s first light graced the Ponderosa as Little Joe Cartwright began to rouse from the ether the doctor had used prior to surgery. Adam waited with a basin in hand while Hoss dampened a hand towel. Ben sat on the edge of the bed and encouraged his son to wake. In the background, Hop Sing and Paul Martin waited.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGotta stay\u2026\u201d Joe mumbled. \u201cCain\u2019t go\u2026 Don\u2019t let him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss looked to each other, wondering what Joe was worrying about.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Joe, wake up. You\u2019re not going anywhere for the time being,\u201d Ben announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026 Please\u2026\u201d Joe mumbled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m right here son. Open your eyes\u2026 come on son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyelids began flickering before they gradually opened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2026\u201d was as far as Joe got before his body began to react to the last vestiges of the ether in his system.<\/span><\/p>\n

Like a well-oiled machine, the basin was there, comforting hands rubbed circles upon his back, and when he could finally lie back down, a cool compress cleaned his face, before another hand placed a glass of water to his mouth with instructions to swish and spit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fifteen minutes had passed before Joe reopened his eyes to the relief of his family. He smiled as his father\u2019s face came into focus and he turned his head to the right to see Hoss happily grinning. When he looked past his brother, he saw Adam standing there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to you?\u201d Joe asked upon seeing the colorful bruise upon Adam\u2019s temple.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTripped and fell\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHurt bad?\u201d Joe inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah, just a bump compared to your injury,\u201d replied Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a Yankee granite head for you,\u201d teased Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d admonished Ben as he shook his head from side to side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019re you here?\u201d Joe asked as he looked back to his new brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRescuing you, it would seem\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d Joe persisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was once told \u2018third times a charm\u2019 and thought that maybe if I rescued you one more time, I\u2019d never have to rescue you again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t rescue me, Hoss did,\u201d Joe announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, okay, I\u2019m happy to see Joe still has his faculties about him,\u201d Paul Martin stated. \u201cI prescribe the next three days \u2018in bed\u2019, and by Sunday you should be able to be up and walking about. But NO, and I mean, NO horseback riding or anything remotely resembling horseback riding or breaking until I return in a week\u2019s time to check out your wound. And once your stitches are removed, it will probably be another ten days before I allow you in the saddle. DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe will follow your instructions,\u201d Ben declared. \u201cIf not, I\u2019d be happy to take him on a little necessary trip.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m too old for that,\u201d Joe stated as his eyes began to droop and soon was sound asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul placed the tips of his fingers to the pulse location at Joe\u2019s neck and confirmed, \u201cHe\u2019s just asleep. It\u2019s what his body needs. I dare say he\u2019ll sleep until supper time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI fix light meal for Lit\u2019le Joe, easy on body.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s fine, you know what to do my good man,\u201d Paul announced as he packed up the last of his instruments and prepared to leave. \u201cKeep an eye on him, but I think he should be okay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but will we?\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The Cartwrights saw the doctor to the great room of their home when Hoss was stunned to hear Adam inquire if the physician would mind if he\u2019d mind some company for the ride back to town.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? Ya leavin\u2019?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019ll wait for you in my buggy\u2026\u201d Paul stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure Doc.\u201d Turning back to Hoss Adam stated, \u201cYeah…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben placed a hand on his large son\u2019s shoulder, \u201cWe talked last night while you were sleeping. Don\u2019t worry, at least until Adam receives new orders, he\u2019s going to be staying around, explore the territory as he originally planned.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou stayin\u2019 in Virginia City?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNope,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes brightened, \u201cYa mean you\u2019re gonna be stayin\u2019 here in the bunkhouse? Pa hired ya?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo and no,\u201d answered Adam, enjoying teasing his middle brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen where? You renting a house nearby?\u201d Hoss was at a loss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTry upstairs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, you think I\u2019d have one of my sons living here as a ranch hand?\u201d Ben teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss couldn\u2019t help from answering, \u201cIt might be good for Little Joe if ya did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI agree with that,\u201d laughed Adam. \u201cI\u2019ll be back in time for supper. I need to send a few wires, make arrangements\u2026 freshen up and change\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou plannin\u2019 to move in tonight?\u201d Hoss hopefully asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet, I\u2019ll spend my days here, but for the time being, I\u2019d like to keep my room at the hotel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, guess that would be a good idea,\u201d Hoss shoved his hands into the front pockets of his pants, \u201cthat way you\u2019s gonna have someplace else to go when Joe starts complainin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled as Hoss turned and walked to his older brother and wrapped an arm around his shoulders, as they walked out of the house, Ben heard Hoss begin to tell Adam all about their little brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Revelation\u2026 Chapter 5 \u2013 Coming Together<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had yet to reawake before Adam returned to the ranch and took a seat on the settee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve sent a telegram to Rear Admiral John A. Dahlgren informing him of my desire to resign my commission,\u201d Adam stated as he accepted a cup of coffee from Hop Sing. \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNumber One son, no longer number one son,\u201d Hop Sing announced as he looked from Hoss to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShucks, don\u2019t bother me none to be the middle son. Adam here\u2019s Pa\u2019s number one son,\u201d Hoss bragged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I \u2026\u201d Ben began.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, it\u2019s true, Adam was your first born, whether he grew up with us or not, that fact cain\u2019t be changed,\u201d Hoss offered with a huge smile that shown upon his whole self.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben loved the genial temperament of his, now, middle son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, the boys briefly said you were offered your own command?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have been,\u201d Adam pulled the wire he had received when he had first returned to town after recovering from his own wounds; and handed it to Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou must be mighty pleased to know your superiors think that highly of you,\u201d Ben continued without reading the wire.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had a job to do, and I did it to the best of my abilities. It\u2019s my choice whether I accept the U.S.S. Pawnee or not; I only hope Dahlgren accepts my resignation\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy wouldn\u2019t he?\u201d Hoss inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood men with leadership qualities are hard to come by son,\u201d Ben announced. \u201cHow long have you served?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSince I graduated Harvard, six years ago,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAbel sent you to Harvard?\u201d Ben was impressed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWith what he could afford, the rest\u2026 I earned while going to school and took out student loans. The good news is that with what I was paid as a naval officer and the proceeds from the sale of Grandfather\u2019s estate, I was able to pay off my school loans in short order.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen did Abel pass on? Had he been sick long?\u201d Ben inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGrandfather passed away four years ago. He died in his sleep, the doctor said his heart just\u2026 stopped; I was home on a brief leave while the ship I was serving aboard was dry-docked for two weeks. I know he would have been pleased to know Mr. Pryce was wrong.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBet Joe\u2019s gonna be pleased to know that you\u2019re askin\u2019 to resign\u2026\u201d Hoss stated as he refilled his coffee cup.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, until Adam knows for sure\u2026 I think this should be kept among us. Hoss, you\u2019re able to understand and accept that Adam has a duty beyond the family. And you know how Joe is\u2026 and I don\u2019t want to disappoint him any more than necessary if Adam has to return to the sea.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, our father is right. At least until Joe is better recovered, right now, his moods are mercurial\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMackerel?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, mercurial,\u201d Adam enunciated. \u201cIt means his temper and emotions bounce all over the place, and quickly at that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why didn\u2019t ya just say that?\u201d Hoss wanted to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, too long in the navy, I guess,\u201d Adam gave as an explanation. \u201cAny way, I think our father doesn\u2019t want to have Joe\u2019s hopes raised that I\u2019ll be able to stay around, only to receive orders for my return to sea.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It had been a week since Paul Martin visited the Ponderosa; he was more than thankful that Joe Cartwright\u2019s injuries had not precipitated multiple visits to the ranch in order to tend to him. He stopped the buggy in the front yard and exited the conveyance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon entering the great room, he took note the ease with which Hoss and Adam relaxed in front of the fireplace, enjoying a game of checkers. The two men looked up and greeted him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss stated, \u201cHe\u2019s in one of those moods,\u201d as he thumbed up the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Paul stated and knew right away how this visit was going to go.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

After examining Joe, Paul asked Ben to bring him to town in three days in order for him to remove the stitches in Joe\u2019s shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, and Joe, I want you to start getting out of bed for a few hours each day\u2026 Okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d replied Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

During his convalescence, Joe\u2019s injuries forced him to remain in bed, but Hoss regularly visited with him first thing of a morning and spent several hours with him of an evening. Ben had declared that he would not be allowed out of his bed until approved by Doc Martin. Joe didn\u2019t complain, his ribs being bruised so shortly after suffering broken ribs and the discomfort he felt each time he moved his shoulder had prevented him from wanting to get out of bed any sooner.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam had previously stated, he spent the vast majority of his days on the Ponderosa riding out with Hoss, to see the land and to meet the men who worked for their father. He would spend his early evenings with the family, eating supper, before he returned to the International House and began to put his affairs in order.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m proud of you, son,\u201d Abel Stoddard had said as Adam stood before him in his cap and gown. \u201cWho would have thought the first of our family to go to college and graduate second in your class on top of it all?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have you to thank for that, Grandfather,\u201d Adam stated as he held his diploma in his hands.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had nothing to do with that, you did it yourself\u2026 You studied and you learned and you remembered\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you gave me the home\u2026 and the books\u2026 and the inspiration\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s what your parents would have wanted for you. I\u2019m sure they\u2019re both in heaven smiling down on you,\u201d Abel spoke as tears formed in his eyes at the memory of his daughter and her husband.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re smiling down on us, Grandfather\u2026 It will always be on us.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The two men left the campus and decided to walk to the home they shared.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo what next\u2026?\u201d Abel asked as he strode, his hands clasped behind his back as if here were still at the helm of one of his ships.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnnapolis\u2026 I\u2019ve already submitted my application and it\u2019s been accepted,\u201d Adam smiled.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you\u2019re going to follow your grandfather to the sea\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd my father. I can\u2019t think of two better men whose footsteps to follow\u2026\u201d Adam answered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGrandfather, I followed my father\u2019s footsteps and I found him. And I found two brothers,\u201d Adam stated as he finished writing in his journal. Before he closed his journal, he held a wire that had been personally dispatched to him in his hand, and slipped it into his journal.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Friday afternoon, Ben delivered his youngest to Doctor Martin\u2019s clinic and told him that he\u2019d be back; he needed to drop off a list of supplies for Hop Sing at the Mercantile before they had lunch at the International House.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe occasionally twitched as Paul snipped each stitch and pulled the thread out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks good Joe, but I still want you wearing that sling for at least another week. Give the muscle time to thoroughly heal.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh Doc\u2026\u201d complained Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want it to be two weeks?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d sulked Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood. Look at it this way, at least you won\u2019t be asked to help load or unload the buckboard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHa, ha,\u201d Joe sourly answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Placing his hat upon his head, Joe stepped from the boardwalk, and when he didn\u2019t see either his father or Hoss by the buckboard, he decided to go to the hotel.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As Adam came down the steps from his third floor room at the International House Hotel, he saw Joe Cartwright standing in the lobby, one moment his face was happy, the next his anger was reflected; causing Adam to contemplate the differences among the three half-brothers. He smiled at the calming affect Hoss hand on those around him; whereas Joe\u2019s emotions were tempered by those around him and what he perceived as right or wrong; his ever changing temper was difficult to keep pace with. Adam watched him uncomfortably shift his arm in the sling; his emotions weren\u2019t the only thing irritating his youngest brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re checking out?\u201d Joe asked, seeing Adam walk down the staircase with his valise in hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 Hoss and I been talking about you\u2026\u201d Adam waited \u201cand what Pa said. You really are our brother?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt would appear so,\u201d Adam casually answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you mad at Pa for leaving you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think that\u2019s between him and me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you gonna talk to him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, this is all new\u2026 to all of us, and right now\u2026 I think it\u2019s best if we just let the dust settle\u2026 Give ourselves time to figure out where we stand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe stand together!\u201d Joe declared. \u201cIf you\u2019re a Cartwright, then damn it\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d called out Roy Coffee as he entered the hotel and strode direct to Little Joe and grabbed him by the arm, avoiding the boy\u2019s left arm that was still in a sling. \u201cThis is between Ben and Adam. I\u2019m sure your pa warned you against doing what you\u2019re doing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not doing anything! I\u2019m just trying to\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStick your nose where it doesn\u2019t belong,\u201d voiced Roy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoesn\u2019t belong?!\u201d retorted Joe at the audacity of the lawman for saying he had no business in trying to convince his brother to stay. \u201cHe\u2019s\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow, lower your voice. You don\u2019t need to cause a scene. People are already talking,\u201d Roy spoke quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho cares about those nosey-bodies anyway?!\u201d Joe demanded, insulted at the sheriff\u2019s intrusion.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam watched in detached fascination as the lawman tried to simmer the hot-headed youth down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do. I want a nice, quiet, peaceful town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut?!\u201d squealed Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo buts about it, unless you want yours tanned. You might be sixteen and think yourself too old, and maybe rightly so, but I can always throw you in jail.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou wouldn\u2019t!\u201d dared Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWouldn\u2019t I?\u201d Roy didn\u2019t bluff.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe angrily walked out the front door of the hotel and down to the buckboard, parked in front of the mercantile where he was supposed to be waiting for his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam offered his thanks to the sheriff and attempted to leave the lobby when Doctor Martin made his presence known, \u201cYou know, you mean a lot to Ben?\u201d Paul had heard the gossip that Adam had received an official letter, and since Ben hadn\u2019t said anything to him, he was damn sure going to let this man know the harm that would come to the family if he just up and left.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor, it was my decision,\u201d Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know that every year, he and I have supper together on one specific day each year? Oh we eat together throughout the year, but we always have supper on this one particular day. We started it the year after Marie died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that matters to me how?\u201d Adam casually asked, he knew the man meant well, but having someone seemingly pry into his personal life was annoying to the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI believe the day is your birthday \u2014 May 18th. He spoke of the infant he left behind and the young boy you\u2019d grown up to be via the letters from your grandfather, and he told me of how he found out you\u2019d died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t die.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe knows that now\u2026 But you, as a sailor, have to realize that mail service can be sporadic\u2026 Letters get misdirected, ships get wrecked or attacked and cargo lost. Change ships to stage coaches\u2026 You get the idea. He received no word to deny your death, so he took it as gospel. Why would a friend of his lie to him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor, as I told Joe, I need time to figure out where I fit in\u2026 I\u2019ve had no family since my grandfather passed away four years ago\u2026 And now, I find I have a family\u2026 A father and two brothers\u2026 I didn\u2019t come west looking for them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but you came west for some reason\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTouch\u00e9 Doctor, I came west to find out what drew my father here, and to his supposed death. I just never imagined I\u2019d find he was alive and had another family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe doesn\u2019t have another family, he has your family. You\u2019ve already acknowledged that you have a father and two brothers.\u201d Patting the man on the shoulder, Doc Martin turned to leave, \u201cJust think on it. Joe\u2019s already proven he wants you as part of his family, and that\u2019s huge for the boy, he\u2019s the toughest critic you\u2019ll ever meet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe seemed pretty angry\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Joe, emotions run high and low and everywhere in between. He\u2019s angry now, because he feels you\u2019ve not accepted what you know in your heart to be true. You are a Cartwright, one of Ben Cartwright\u2019s sons\u2026 And what happened in the past is the past\u2026 Think on your future, son. You\u2019re needed here.\u201d Paul grew frustrated at the cavalier attitude of Ben\u2019s oldest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoc?\u201d Adam called as the man walked away. \u201cYou know, both of you could have saved yourselves a lot of talking in trying to convince me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d Paul was heartbroken, feeling that all his words were for naught.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pointed up the stairs to the two porters carrying his truck down the steps, \u201cYou can take it to the Cartwright buckboard. I believe it\u2019s parked in front of the Mercantile,\u201d Adam informed the men as they set it down and breathed heavily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re staying?\u201d Roy and Paul voiced together.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been allowed to resign my commission.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two friends watched the young man walk out the door and head towards the Cartwright buckboard.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leaning back against the bench seat of the buckboard with his arms somewhat folded across his chest, Joe saw Adam approach and was not going to apologize for earlier. He figured Adam was on his way to the stage station and he sulkily asked, \u201cWhat do you want?\u201d as Adam stopped beside the buckboard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly a chance to let the dust settle\u2026 if you\u2019ll give us a chance,\u201d Adam replied as a hint of a smile appeared upon his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Perplexed, Joe sat up and looked at this new brother of his.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben called as he stepped from the store. \u201cWould you mind?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMind? Mind what?\u201d Joe pleaded, lost in confusion between the words Adam spoke and what his father was asking of him. A few moments later he felt the buckboard lurch and turned to see two men hefting a trunk to the back of the vehicle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe have lunch reservations\u2026 or are you going to sit there and sulk all day,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cGood afternoon, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFather, do you need help loading the buckboard?\u201d Adam asked as he handed coins to both porters to thank them for their assistance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Father?\u2019 Joe sarcastically mouthed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Tom will see that our provisions are loaded while the family is having lunch; that is after your trunk in settled.\u201d Ben watched the varying expressions upon the face of his youngest as the boy tried to work through what was happening.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, are you going to just sit there\u2026? Or are you going to join us?\u201d Ben again asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUs?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, your brothers and me,\u201d Ben answered, his eyebrows raised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re staying?\u201d Joe pleadingly asked as he looked to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, out on the street is not the place to discuss this,\u201d Ben announced. \u201cNow come on, get down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf he\u2019s not going to stay, then\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m staying. Lunch is for me to tell you and Hoss the news, officially, and for the town to see us as a family,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026?\u201d Joe grinned and accepted Adam\u2019s hand to help steady him as he stepped down from the buckboard, \u201cYou know\u2026 what I said when you first left the Ponderosa\u2026 about not needing you as a brother?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d blasted Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, let him finish. I\u2019d really like to hear what he has to say.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stepped back, crossed his arms, and looked long and hard at his youngest brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking a moment to gather his courage, Joe swallowed hard before he spoke. \u201cWell\u2026 It\u2019s like this\u2026 I don\u2019t really need another brother.\u201d Joe emphasized the word need. \u201cBut it might be kinda nice to have you as a brother, someone else to get me outta the trouble I always seem to find myself in.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDagnabbit, I think I\u2019m gonna like having you as a brother there, older brother! I\u2019ve known him all his life and I ain\u2019t nary once been able to get him to admit that he gets himself into trouble,\u201d exclaimed Hoss as he came from the mercantile with a small bag full of candy in his hand and looked from one brother to the other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say I get myself into trouble,\u201d claimed Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think your words implied, the trouble you find yourself in,\u201d stated Adam, a grin beamed across his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee Hoss, at least old Adam here listens to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s only because he cain\u2019t get a word in edgewise,\u201d Hoss laughingly retorted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stood back and watched his three sons banter back and forth as they headed to the International House.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo Ben, you going to join them?\u201d Paul asked as he and Roy joined the proud father on the boardwalk. All three watched the shenanigans of the three Cartwright brothers as they horsed around like they had always been together.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I should ask the town council to build onto the jail,\u201d teased Roy. \u201cI have a feeling that between those three, I\u2019m going to have plenty of company come Friday or Saturday nights.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re not that bad, Roy,\u201d Ben stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot separately, but together\u2026\u201d Roy replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou two care to join us?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you need to be seen around town as a family, not with us meddling in,\u201d Paul answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

With the words yelled, \u201cHey Pa! You coming?!\u201d by their oldest brother, Joe and Hoss broke into laughter and began pushing their older brother around, only to have Adam turn the tables on Joe who found himself hoisted up and almost being dumped in the water trough.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam! Put your brother down\u2026 ON THE GROUND!\u201d Ben yelled as his face reddened. \u201cBe careful of his shoulder!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Revelation\u2026 Chapter 6 \u2013 It Should Have Been Smooth Sailing<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Winter was beginning to hint it was coming early to those of Storey County as the sun rose later in the morning and set earlier of an evening. And for the end of October, a crisp chill hung in the air throughout the days. Several months had passed since Adam had joined the family and together, the four Cartwrights, had made a successful cattle drive to Sacramento, California; they had just returned home the previous day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben woke early and it no longer surprised him to find Adam already awake and sitting at the table, as was his habit, a cup of steaming coffee in his hand. It no longer seemed new to see Adam sitting there; it felt like his son had always been at his side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see you\u2019re up early\u2026 Thought that after the cattle drive you\u2019d sleep in\u2026\u201d Ben stated as he sat down and accepted a cup of coffee from Hop Sing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYears of living in the east, must be my internal chronometer waking me when it\u2019s still dark here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll get used to the time difference. Give it time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss was next to join the family for breakfast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSmells good. Hey older brother, still plan on stayin\u2019?\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026 If Joe pulls any more pranks on me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe finally managed to make his way down to breakfast, shirt buttoned askew, belt not fastened, though it did appear that he had attempted to tame his hair. Still yawning, he sat down in his chair at the table and began to serve himself some scrambled eggs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam began to tease him, \u201cI would think that someone of your age\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t need you telling me what to do!\u201d a wide awake retorted Joe as he stood up, causing his chair to clatter backwards. \u201cI don\u2019t need you harping on me!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d bellowed Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cME?! Tell him he\u2019s got no call to be bossing me around!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not bossing you around. Adam was making an observation\u2026 the same one I\u2019ve been trying to get through to you about being punctual and properly dressed for breakfast. If you had been on time, he would have no reason to say anything.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe mumbled under his breath as he righted his chair and sat back down, infuriated that his father was taking Adam\u2019s side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOw! What\u2019s that for?\u201d Joe exclaimed as Hop Sing smacked him on the back side of his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou make too much noise. You mind manners,\u201d Hope Sing answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe replied, \u201cB\u00f9sh\u00ec n\u01d0 t\u00e0i\u201d (Not you too) and all the gusto left him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cX\u012bnzh\u00ec l\u01d0y\u00ed,\u201d (Mind manners) Hop Sing stated and smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat back, watching and listening to the words exchanged, he felt slightly disheartened when he saw the fire go out of Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I didn\u2019t mean to upset you by my comment,\u201d Adam offered as an apology.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I be excused? I\u2019m not hungry.\u201d Joe stood up and left the table without waiting for a response from his father. For one of the few times in his life he didn\u2019t slam the front door as he exited.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?!\u201d Hoss called after him and began to rise from his seat to follow his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, let me. I\u2019m the one who\u2019s upset the boy. Let me talk with him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Hoss, sit down\u2026 please.\u201d When both his eldest son\u2019s returned to their seats, Ben began to speak. \u201cHoss, you\u2019ve known Joe all your life and you know very well how he flies off the handle at the slightest provocation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, he cain\u2019t help it\u2026\u201d Hoss defended.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe can, and he will.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFather\u2026 I can\u2019t say that I exactly understand all that the boy is going through\u2026 but for so long it was just the two of them and now\u2026 I believe he feels threatened by my presence\u2026 that I\u2019m stealing you away from him. And as for this weekend\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I still feel it\u2019s mean of you\u2026 you know,\u201d Hoss stated as a smile appeared on his face. \u201cBut this is the best prank to get back at that little rascal.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFather\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that\u2019s another thing, older brother; if you want to fit in better ya just cain\u2019t go around continuin\u2019 to call Pa, Father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam arched an eyebrow, and began again, \u201cPa,\u201d Hoss snickered, \u201cHoss is right. This party you\u2019re planning for Saturday\u2026 You really should tell Joe it\u2019s for his birthday and not a welcome home party for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo he shouldn\u2019t. If Joe knew he\u2019d be preenin\u2019 around here like one o those\u2026 uh\u2026 birds with the fancy tails that fan out and look like eyes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean peacocks?\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s the bird.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at the comparison, \u201cBut I don\u2019t feel right about it. Look at his reaction this morning. All I wanted to do was banter about his impending birthday and he flew off the handle.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Joe for ya,\u201d Hoss stated as he pushed another bite of pancakes into his mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking to Ben, Adam continued, \u201cI guess I should have corrected your misinterpretation of my comment, it wasn\u2019t about Joe\u2019s lateness to the table, or his state of dress. Maybe if I had stated my words differently, the whole blow up could have been avoided.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam wondered whether he had made the right choice when he was given the chance to resign his commission. He was eager to learn about his family and just the thought of a father and brothers\u2026 But now, he\u2019d made numerous mistakes during the cattle drive that Hoss or Joe had to correct and there were just too many times where he\u2019d made a comment to Joe and the boy had taken it wrong.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess we\u2019re all \u2018jumping to conclusions\u2019 lately,\u201d Ben stated. \u201cIt\u2019s just gonna take us a while to get used to the newness of your being here. Maybe I should tell Joe the truth about Saturday\u2019s party.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt might go a long ways to unruffling that peacock\u2019s feathers,\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBy the way, did I hear right earlier? Joe understands and speaks Cantonese?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d Hoss looked up from his now empty plate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe and Hop Sing had an exchange\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLit\u2019le Joe know language, Hop Sing teach when boy,\u201d admitted Hop Sing as he brought fresh coffee to the table. \u201cWe talk when he feel no one listen to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one listens to him?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLit\u2019le Joe not know how to feel\u2026 We talk many nights, after family sleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe boy should know his family cares about him,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe no boy, he young man. You do well remember,\u201d warned Hop Sing.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Hop Sing left to take the dirty dishes to the kitchen, Ben admitted, \u201cYou know, I never really paid attention when Joe and Hop Sing would get to whispering\u2026 He really knows the language?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFrom what Hop Sing said, it sounds like Shortshanks been keepin\u2019 secrets.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think maybe the b\u2026 young man is entitled to his secrets. Even more so, now that there\u2019s another older brother to make him feel even younger\u2026\u201d Adam added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s it!\u201d Hoss called out in surprise. \u201cHe\u2019s upset cause he thinks people will think he\u2019s been put down a notch\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Adam stated and looked to Hoss to make sure he\u2019d heard him, \u201cI would like to be the one to tell Joe about Saturday. Maybe it will soften the tension\u2026 Joe\u2019s been feeling of late.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI really wanted to surprise him with this birthday party\u2026 How could I have missed it all? How did I miss how difficult your addition to our family has been on him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to remember, the whole dynamics of your family has changed, I don\u2019t think that Joe\u2019s the only one who\u2019s been feeling out of sorts. I\u2019ll admit that I don\u2019t know how I would feel or behave had I been raised here and found out later that I had a brother I didn\u2019t know about. Let me go talk to him, maybe I can smooth his feathers without divulging the truth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam entered the barn and called for Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want Adam?\u201d Joe dejectedly answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI came to apologize. Joe, I\u2019m sorry. I didn\u2019t mean to get your father upset with you so early in the morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s alright, as you heard, it ain\u2019t nothing new\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, how do you really feel about me being here?\u201d Adam bluntly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay\u2026 I guess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBack in town that day when we had lunch, you were pretty angry when you thought I wasn\u2019t going to stay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, because I knew Pa would miss you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut now you feel different,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorta\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged his shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think that maybe I\u2019m just another person to tell you what to do?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the truth.\u201d Joe spoke, not realizing he\u2019d said it aloud.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I am older than you, and I only have good intentions of making sure you finish growing up to be someone our Pa can be proud of\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not like me. Like you. Your father is already proud of the man you\u2019re becoming and all you do around the Ponderosa\u2026 I just want to make sure the things you do don\u2019t get you into trouble.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss has been trying that for years\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo I guess he\u2019s not been doing too good of a job,\u201d Adam decided to change tactics.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, you\u2019ve no right to say that!\u201d declared Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo? Don\u2019t you remember how we first met?\u201d Adam asked, eyebrows arched.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, let\u2019s make a deal. I\u2019ll try to help you keep out of trouble, but you also have to promise to help keep me out of trouble.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just how am I supposed to do that?\u201d Joe asked sarcastically.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou seem to forget that I\u2019ve spent all my life in a city and that for the past six years, my life has been on a ship in the Navy. You saw for yourself the mistakes I made during the cattle drive\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa, but Pa was there and never once did he yell at ya or come down hard on ya,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cHe spent most all his time with you and only\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had slipped out the true reasons for his feelings, but Adam let it pass, he knew in three short days Ben would have all the time in the world to spend on his youngest. So Adam continued with his tactic of encouraging Joe to feel better about himself than he did, \u201cJoe, I have NO idea what I\u2019m doing when it comes to roping, branding, treeing\u2026 \u201c<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTreeing\u2026 that\u2019s what outlaws do to a town,\u201d Joe snorted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee\u2026 there\u2026 You helped me already.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess, like I said, it wouldn\u2019t be too bad having you has a brother. I\u2019m sorry too, Adam. I shouldn\u2019t have flown off the handle like that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been told that\u2019s to be expected. Come on, before Pa comes looking for us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The brothers cordially walked back into the house together. Ben looked up questioningly, hoping the surprise was still a surprise and relaxed when Adam\u2019s response indicated it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The four Cartwrights sat around the breakfast table Saturday morning, Joe acting as if his seat were too hot to sit upon, he kept looking from one family member to the next, barely eating his food. As the minutes passed, he became almost petulant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019d like for you to take Joe into town to pick up supplies as well as the mail,\u201d Ben stated as he set his coffee cup to the table and began giving out his orders for the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I could have some time to myself today\u2026\u201d Joe whined.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, this is a working ranch and everyone needs to do their share, and just because Adam is now living with us and taking on more responsibilities doesn\u2019t mean that you can neglect yours.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not neglecting\u2026 I just thought\u2026\u201d he slumped in his chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSit up and eat your breakfast,\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry. I\u2019ll go get the wagon hitched.\u201d Joe somberly left the table and didn\u2019t look back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe really got him goin\u2019,\u201d Hoss snickered when he heard the door close.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe felt crestfallen. In the three days since they had returned home from the cattle drive, all his time had been spent with his newest, oldest brother teaching him the ways of life out on the Ponderosa, working side by side with him. At first he thought he could enjoy having another brother, but after three days of Adam questioning why they did, what they did, the way they did it…<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s response that, \u201cThis is the way it\u2019s always been done\u2026\u201d was cordially received by Adam, but then he had to go and make suggestions on everything. And his suggestions didn\u2019t end with Joe, of an evening Joe would watch Adam and his father working together at the desk in the alcove off the great room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Three days of his chores taking longer than they should have\u2026 because of Adam. Three days of Adam questioning this or that; not bothering to breathe in the beauty of the land surrounding them. Three days of Joe not being able to go to town and visit with his friends\u2026 because of Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Saturday dawned Joe knew that things would be different, Hoss would take Adam around while he would be able to spend time on his own. But not once during breakfast had anyone mentioned \u2018happy birthday\u2019 to him. He felt even worse than he ever had\u2026 mumbling, \u201cIt\u2019s just not fair.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was already sitting on the bench seat of the wagon waiting for Adam to step from the house when he heard the door open and Adam talking, \u201cYes Hop Sing, I\u2019ll remember to tell your number three cousin to not use so much starch and I\u2019ll make sure your order is complete at the mercantile before we head home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s carefree walk made it appear that he sauntered to the wagon before he climbed up the wheel to take a seat next to his brother. \u201cDrive on, my good man,\u201d Adam teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa said you were supposed to take me to town with you, not the other way around,\u201d Joe moodily answered as he refused to pick up the reins to the team.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thinking to himself, \u2018touchy, touchy\u2019, Adam reached for the reins and urged the team forward.<\/span><\/p>\n

After several failed attempts to entice Joe into a conversation, Adam decided to just ignore him and enjoy the scenery as he drove the matched team into Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam halted the team in front of the Mercantile and hopped down, \u201cI\u2019ll give the list to Tom why don\u2019t you go fetch the mail.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not a dog!\u201d spat Joe as he jumped down on the street side of the wagon and without looking stepped farther into the street and was almost run down by a wagon making its way through town, had he not heard Adam shout \u201cJOE!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDamn it boy, you almost were run over,\u201d a panicked Adam stated as he jumped over the wagon traces to get to his brother to make sure he was alright.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right!\u201d Joe argued, pushing Adam away from him. \u201cJust leave me alone.\u201d Looking both ways before he proceeded, Joe walked across the street and made it safely to the boardwalk.<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time Adam stepped back to the boardwalk in front of the Mercantile, he heard, \u201cThat was too close,\u201d breathed by Doctor Paul Martin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, too close. I almost couldn\u2019t shout out a warning in time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s up with Joe?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUpset with the prank that Pa and Hoss are playing on him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think he\u2019d be happy to find out they\u2019ve planned a surprise party for his birthday\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe doesn\u2019t know about it. He\u2019s probably more upset because they haven\u2019t acknowledged his birthday this morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, and you\u2019re the one who got stuck with him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cActually, the way Joe feels, it\u2019s the other way around.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be too hard on him Adam, he\u2019s a good kid, and he\u2019s gonna make a real fine man someday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you getting settled in better?\u201d Paul asked, changing the subject.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, between Hoss and I, and our father\u2026 Things are going well\u2026 I just wish I could understand Joseph better than I do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust give him time\u2026 He\u2019ll come around.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and then he\u2019ll be mad again, and then he\u2019ll be happy\u2026\u201d Adam teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat he will, son. Well, I best finish my rounds if I expect to make it to Joe\u2019s birthday party tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHey Joe!\u201d Mitch Devlin called as he saw his friend on the street and hurried over to join him. \u201cI bet you\u2019re really excited about the big shindig tonight at your place, I mean your Pa giving a huge party to welcome Adam into the family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, whoop-de-do!\u201d Joe replied unenthusiastically.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh come on\u2026 It can\u2019t be that bad, I mean\u2026 with three brothers, you don\u2019t have to do as much stuff around the place as you did before\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah? I have to teach older brother how to do stuff, and then listen to him complain about how we do stuff and why we don\u2019t do it some other way. Of a night, Pa and Adam sit together at his desk, going over the books and contracts and discussing stuff. They\u2019ll ask Hoss to join them, but do they ask me? NOOOO. I\u2019m Joseph \u2018nobody\u2019 Cartwright, the youngest and forgotten son of Benjamin Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh come on Joe, you know that ain\u2019t true?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t it?\u201d Joe answered snidely. \u201cDo you know what today is?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, it\u2019s October 31th, Halloween,\u201d answered Mitch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and what else is today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Mitch thought on the question a moment and shrugged his shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy best friend\u2026 Seems not only am I the forgotten son of Ben Cartwright, I\u2019m also the forgotten friend. See ya later Mitch.\u201d Joe slipped his hands into his front pockets and retreated dejectedly down the boardwalk.<\/span><\/p>\n

SallyAnne Mays stepped from the notions store and stopped next to Mitch, \u201cWas that Little Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho?\u201d Mitch answered as his brain went blank having recognized the voice and looked upon the beautiful face of the girl who so infatuated him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMitch Devlin!\u201d Margaret Devlin called from two doors down the boardwalk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cComing Ma!\u201d he answered, \u201cGotta go! Nice seeing you, Miss SallyAnne,\u201d Mitch turned and tripped over his feet, but quickly regained his balance.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe was fuming, seems while he went to \u2018fetch\u2019 the mail all everyone wanted to talk about was the party later that night at the Ponderosa to welcome Adam home. He was even more humiliated when both Roy Coffee and Paul Martin had called out to him that they\u2019d see him later for Adam\u2019s Welcome Home Party.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf one more person says anything to me about Adam, I\u2019m gonna\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Joe,\u201d Fred Avery, a hand at one of the other outlying ranches called as he stepped from the livery, \u201cCan\u2019t wait to officially meet your brother Adam tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Fred Avery didn\u2019t even see the left hook that knocked him to the ground, out cold.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had finished his first beer and was starting on his second, and was in no better mood than when he\u2019d entered the saloon. He should have known better than to start mouthing off when he heard the voice behind him demanding to know, \u201cWhat in tarnation has gotten into you Little Joe? And just what do you think you\u2019re doing in the Bucket o\u2019Blood?\u201d But control was beyond him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m having a beer. What\u2019s it look like I\u2019m doing?\u201d Joe retorted, still facing the bar.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe, you know your pa don\u2019t allow you in here unless he or your brother are with you,\u201d Roy casually explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Several of the cowboys at one of the tables started laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, haven\u2019t you heard, it\u2019s unless he or one of my TWO brothers are with me.\u201d Joe drain a third of the mug when he felt a hand upon his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why\u2019re you in here?\u201d Roy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I want to be. Now leave me alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI cain\u2019t do that Joe, you need to come with me,\u201d Roy humbly replied and began to guide Joe away from the bar.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Joe! Ya better go with Roy\u2026\u201d one of the cowboys called out, only to have another pick up and yell, \u201cYeah, better to be hauled out of here by the law than by your old man.\u201d All the cowboys around the table started laughing and hollering.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slammed his glass on the bar, the beer sloshing up and over the sides and onto Joe\u2019s hand. Ignoring the mess he made, a seething red Joe turned to confront the cowboys. Roy\u2019s hand firmly gripped Joe\u2019s right arm and forcefully pulled him in the opposite direction from his intention, and too late the lawman realized he should have grabbed for Joe\u2019s left arm as a left fist impacted with his jaw, knocking the lawman backwards.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once free, Joe flung himself towards the still laughing cowboys, but before he could reach his destination, he was bodily picked up and restrained. \u201cLET GO OF ME!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot until you cool down!\u201d Adam hissed into his younger brother\u2019s ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess we should have added, better than being hauled away by his brother!\u201d hooted a cowboy, the comment set the others to laughing as they resumed their poker game.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another retorted, \u201cAin\u2019t never seen Hoss try to do that to the kid.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, usually Hoss\u2019 hand on the back of his neck settles the kid down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe continued kicking and struggling trying to break free of his brother who carried him out the swinging doors, all the while the cowboys howled with laughter at the scene. After shaking his head and quickly regaining his senses; Roy followed Adam Cartwright who continued to carry his youngest brother down the boardwalk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inside the Sheriff\u2019s Office, Adam dropped Joe, still throwing obscenities as if they were epitaphs, decrying the indignity of being treated as he had. Without any conscious thought, Adam slapped Joe across the face, fisted his hand and pointed at the angered youth who stood in front of him, \u201cYou watch your language and show proper respect. And just who the hell do you think you are? You assaulted an officer of the law? Roy could throw you in jail!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho the hell do I think I AM? Who the hell do YOU think YOU ARE?! You, the high and mighty Adam Cartwright, prodigal son of Ben Cartwright, risen from the dead and heralded as the coming of the next messiah!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Never in his life nor during his career in the Navy had any man or child ever spoken to him with such disrespect. It was only his upbringing by Abel Stoddard and his training in the Navy that prevented him from flattening out his hand and backhanding Joe. Instead, he grabbed the boy by the scruff of his shirt and the back of his pants and forcefully pushed him into the adjoining room and into one of the cells, slamming closed the barred door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe continued to sling curses as good as any sailor Adam had ever heard. Adam stood in front of the cell, arms crossed and waited. Roy Coffee stood in the doorway, trying to keep from snickering. Joe only stopped cursing because he was running out of breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy, what are the charges against Joseph?\u201d Adam seriously asked, he\u2019d been told Joe was at the saloon, saw what was getting ready to happen, and tried his best to prevent it. But he had been too late.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph?! You got no right!\u201d barked Little Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Fred Avery was in here talking about Joe knocking him out cold down by the livery\u2026 And then there\u2019s the little matter of punching me\u2026\u201d Roy cupped his jaw with his right hand and wiggled it from side to side. \u201cThe circuit judge is scheduled to stop by Monday\u2026 Guess it\u2019ll be up to him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When Joe heard \u2018circuit judge\u2019 he shut up, yet his anger was still present.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s not going to be happy about this, especially considering tonight,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho gives a rat\u2019s ass! It\u2019s your party anyway! You got what you wanted! You came out west and guess what?! \u2018Hey Pa\u2026 I\u2019m home!\u2019 Well, just go on back home, you and Hoss make such great brothers! And Pa\u2026 I\u2026 I\u2026 I\u2019m sick and tired of it all!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf what Joe,\u201d Adam asked when Joe ran out of breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf you! Adam this, Adam that, Adam the Magnificent! God, I\u2019m sick to death of hearing nothing other than you, you, you! I used to have a life before you came along!\u201d Joe stomped around in the cell, throwing his hands up in the air, expressing his anger; his words loud, his breath ragged. \u201cMy family used to love me!\u201d With those words, Joe fell to the bunk; his posture was one of total defeat. \u201cI can\u2019t compete against you, Adam\u2026 You win\u2026\u201d Joe struggled to pull in air to breathe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat competition do you think we\u2019re in, Joe?\u201d Adam compassionately asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears freely flowed down Joe\u2019s face as he shook his head from side to side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy, open up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure. I think this prank went too far and maybe I should have demanded it not be played out,\u201d Adam humbly acknowledged as he stepped into the cell. A few short steps and Adam turned to sit next to his youngest brother, wrapping an arm around his shoulder. Joe had no reaction. Adam worried that the boy\u2019s spirit had been broken, as mercurial as his temper was and as much bravado as he carried about, Adam had not seen this side of his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Joe\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sniffled and wiped his running nose with his sleeve. With the heels of his palms he tried to wipe away the tears, but they kept falling. Still his breaths came ragged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe we\u2019re not in a competition. Our father\u2026 Hoss, and even Hop Sing, we all love you. With my being here, it just means that we all have to give more love to go around. It doesn\u2019t mean that you get any less loved.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust leave me alone, Adam.\u201d Joe tried to breathe deep, his breaths continued in a disjointed effort. \u201cJust go on home to your party,\u201d Joe quietly stated. \u201cGo back to Pa and Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slipped from Adam\u2019s arm and lay down on the bunk. He closed his eyes in an effort to stop his tears, but the more he tried, the worse he felt, he still couldn\u2019t breathe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lowering his head in shame for bringing his youngest brother to such an emotional depression, Adam stated, \u201cJoe, tonight\u2026 it\u2019s not my party.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s\u2026 giving it\u2026 on your behalf\u2026, so\u2026 it\u2019s your\u2026 party.\u201d Joe sniffled and hiccupped, he tried to draw in another ragged breath before he rolled over to turn his back to his brother; pulled his knees up and hugged his arms across his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe,\u201d Roy knelt beside the bunk, \u201cAdam was right in what his said a few minutes ago, we shouldn\u2019t oughta a played this prank on you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t respond, tears still fell, he still gasped for breath and hiccupped as he continued to try to stop crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, your pa wanted to surprise you for your birthday tonight. It being a welcome home party for Adam was just a cover story\u2026 Everyone in town, and your friends, were in on it. After all the pranks you\u2019ve ever pulled, we all thought it was a good way to get back at you.\u201d Roy stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

When they still received no reaction from Joe, Adam queried, \u201cJoe? Did you hear Roy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The only response was Joe\u2019s body shuddering and his pitifully calling, \u201cMomma.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went to gently shake his brother but was stopped by Roy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, leave him be for a while. You were right, and I\u2019m sorry for my part in what happened to Joe.\u201d Pulling the older brother from the cell, Roy left the door open.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs much as he pranks everyone and his cocky attitude, I\u2019ve never seen this side of him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI haven\u2019t seen this side of him since\u2026 well\u2026 since Marie died\u2026 And Ben went away.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe what? You mean Pa left Hoss and Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, have seat\u2026\u201d After Adam sat down, Roy continued as he settled his hip upon his desk. \u201cYour father was distraught, he witnessed Marie\u2019s death, he was the one who bought the horse for her\u2026 Though he got to spend more time with her than he did your mother and Hoss\u2019, it just about broke the man. It was six weeks before he returned to the ranch\u2026 But in the time he was gone\u2026 That vivacious and rambunctious rapscallion I got back there in my cell, withdrew from living. Paul and Rose took the boys in, Joe done nothing but cry the whole time\u2026 It got so bad that Hoss was pulled from school for a while because Joe was petrified that Hoss had died too, just like his momma and his papa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoes our father know this?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we told him when he came to the Martin\u2019s to retrieve his sons. Hoss was eager to see him and go home, but when Joe saw Ben\u2026 He went all hysterical, screaming he didn\u2019t want to die\u2026 He was so distraught and he done something with his breathing\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHyperventilated?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s what I think Doc said, anyway, he ended up passing out and was out for several hours. Paul and Rose finally allowed Ben to leave with the boys\u2026 Well let\u2019s just say that it took time for Joe to accept Ben back as his pa. Paul said he was protecting himself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProtecting himself? He was only five, if I remember what I\u2019ve been told.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEven a five year old can withdraw into themselves, try not to get attached again in an effort to not get hurt. While Ben was gone, the boy returned to suckling on his thumb and hiding behind Hoss when anyone came near him. Totally uncharacteristic for the child. He continued to do the same for several weeks after they returned home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think our prank pushed Joe past his limits. Damn, we pushed him back to where he felt Ben had abandoned him. The way he was breathing, I think he done it again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShould I get Paul?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMight not be a bad idea,\u201d Roy answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam returned to the Sheriff\u2019s Office with Paul Martin in tow, and after the doctor had an opportunity to examine his patient, he stated, \u201cHe\u2019s just sleeping.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank God,\u201d breathed Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould either of you care to tell me what happened? I smell beer upon his breath and spilled on his shirt sleeve.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA prank that we didn\u2019t realize had gone too far and one that shouldn\u2019t have been played,\u201d answered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe party?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u201cWhen can I take him home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSoon as he wakes, but I\u2019d prefer it being his own choice to wake.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go collect the mail and see if Tom\u2019s completed our order at the mercantile\u2026 I\u2019ll be back shortly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The lawman and the physician watched as Adam left the jail.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

An hour and a half later, Joe roused from sleep and upon seeing Adam stretched out in the chair on the other side of the cell he rose and tried to make it out the open cell door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAbout time you woke up,\u201d Adam announced as he sat up straight and pushed his hat up from covering his eyes. \u201cYou ready to go home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe said nothing, just continued walking out the door, through the office, and down the boardwalk. Adam picked up Joe\u2019s hat and followed him.<\/span><\/p>\n

On their way to the Ponderosa, Joe had affected Adam\u2019s stretched out posture on the bench seat of the wagon, replete with his hat pulled over his eyes. He feigned sleep, but Adam sensed differently. Turning the horses off the main road, Adam pulled them to a halt and stepped down. Pushing his hat from his eyes, Joe looked to see where they were, it hadn\u2019t sounded like home especially since he hadn\u2019t heard the front door open and either Ben, Hoss, or Hop Sing call to them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d we stop here?\u201d Joe demanded to know once he recognized where they were.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought we could talk\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to talk\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot even about your mother?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d you bring me here?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy told me a little about what happened, and\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe was killed after being thrown from her horse. There\u2019s nothing more to know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think there is\u2026 Joe, that clearing is important to you, so it\u2019s important to me. I don\u2019t mean to be the overbearing older brother, or maybe I\u2019ve spent too many years as second in command at sea and now I\u2019m second in command to your father\u2026 I don\u2019t know how to relate to you as a brother. I just want a chance to know you\u2026\u201d Adam rested his arms on the side of the wagon, looking up at Joe as he spoke. \u201cI\u2019ve come to realize that I don\u2019t really know that much about you other than what you\u2019ve taught me here on the Ponderosa and the things that happened when we came here from San Francisco. Joe, I want to understand how one minute you can have so much bravado, be so aggravating, and the next\u2026 someone who needs to be needed. Did you know you called for her when you were in the cell?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake me back, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s so wrong with us trying to get to know each other? Where do you want me to take you? Home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not my home any more\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot your home? Joe, from what every one\u2019s told me\u2026 You\u2019re more a part of the Ponderosa\u2026 than anyone else.\u201d Adam\u2019s exasperation was flaring. \u201cHow can it not be your home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHome is where love is, there\u2019s no love there\u2026 at least not for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, come down here… Don\u2019t make me make you.\u201d Adam waited for his brother to comply and follow him farther into the clearing. \u201cSit down and talk with me\u2026 Joe, please tell me about your mother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam knew he would be cutting it close in getting back to the Ponderosa in time to get ready for Joe\u2019s birthday party, but Adam knew that he needed to take the time; this very well could be the tipping point for his relationship with his youngest brother and he needed to tread lightly. He didn\u2019t want to drive his brother away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Most of what Joe told Adam were stories he repeated having heard from his father or his brother, sometimes he vaguely remembered a moment. Adam inquired about the time Ben went away after Marie\u2019s death. Joe became introspective for some time before he spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought Pa had died too. And then he came back\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened when he came back?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe wasn\u2019t like he was before.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow so?\u201d Adam kept his temper, but it was almost like trying to manually pull a ship\u2019s anchor from the sea floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe didn\u2019t laugh any more\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was sad\u2026 I tried to make him happy\u2026 I did as I was told, when I was told\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I\u2019m sure he returned to being the father you remembered\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Joe answered as he pulled a blade of grass from the ground, \u201cIt was eleven years ago today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour birthday?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI came downstairs real quiet like, so papa wouldn\u2019t shout at me about running in the house\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s retelling took on the tone of the six year old he had been. \u201c\u2026 He looked up at me and smiled. He motioned for me to come to where he was sitting at the table.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam waited as Joe remembered, allowing the boy to tell the tale in his own time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe wished me a happy birthday and lifted me up onto his lap. It surprised me, he hadn\u2019t done that since before momma died. And then he asked me what I wanted for my birthday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you tell him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt first I was going to ask for my momma back, but Hop Sing and Doctor Martin had finally explained to me what had happened in a way I could understand that\u2026 Momma wasn\u2019t coming back and I couldn\u2019t go to her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you ask for instead?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told Papa I just wanted him to love me and always be there for me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd he said?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe said he\u2019d always loved me and\u2026 he apologized for not being there for me after Momma died. He said it would never happen again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam inhaled deeply at the repercussions of a six-year old\u2019s birthday request and how it had manifested to bring Joe, and him, to where they were now.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Pa does love you\u2026 And so do Hoss and I.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one wished me a happy birthday this morning and\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s breath hitched, \u201cI still had to work. We don\u2019t ever have to work on our birthdays. Pa always gives us the day off.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, did you hear what Roy and I said back in the cell\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked inquisitively up to his brother who at some time had managed to sidle up next to him and wrap an arm around his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAbout tonight\u2019s party,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll come. I know Pa would want all of us to be there and be happy for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Joe, Joe. Yes, Pa is giving a party tonight, but it\u2019s not for me. We needed some way to get you out of the hose so it could be decorated and\u2026 I wanted to give you a birthday party. And Pa decided it should be a surprise party, guised as a welcome home party for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I wish we\u2019d had this talk before\u2026 I would have told Pa that under these circumstances it wasn\u2019t a good idea to plan a birthday party for you while telling you it was a welcome home party for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut why?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, after all you went through this summer, the injuries you sustained\u2026 For me\u2026 you\u2019re my first brother to have a birthday since I arrived at the Ponderosa, and you\u2019ve taught me so much. I wanted to show you how much you\u2019ve come to mean to me. For Pa\u2026 he was thankful that you even lived to see this birthday. He loves you so much\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not going to\u2026 when you tell him what happened in town and that I have to face the circuit judge on Monday\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one\u2019s pressing charges against you. Roy realizes, the same as me, what happened, and he was going to speak with Fred Avery\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill, I caused a scene at the Bucket o\u2019Blood and drank two beers\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly a beer and a half, buddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, I punched Sheriff Coffee\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou slipped on the beer you spilled and lost your balance, you couldn\u2019t help that your fist hit him while you were trying to regain your footing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou got it all figured out, haven\u2019t you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cParts, the rest will hopefully come to me fast enough to pull this over on Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know he\u2019s gonna say it wouldn\u2019t have happened had I not been in the saloon to begin with\u2026 And he\u2019s sure to ask Cosmo if you were with me. I\u2019m only allowed inside if Pa or you or Hoss are with me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, I don\u2019t think I have an answer for that one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they continued to drive home, Joe\u2019s guilt weighed heavily upon him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf It would make you feel better, I can charge you, listen to the testimony, evaluate the evidence, and pronounce verdict and sentence,\u201d Adam stated as he urged the horses forward.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m guilty as charged,\u201d Joe announced. \u201cNo need to go through the motions of a trial.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, then what do you say to spending all your free time during the month of November in town at the Jail.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you going to explain my spending the nights in jail to Pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t be under arrest Joe\u2026 I suggested to Roy that he might consider accepting your help as a way to ease your conscience.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou suggested\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m kinda getting to know you\u2026 and the way you were raised. While you were sleeping, Roy and I talked.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I guess it could be worse\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure he\u2019ll place you on probation by Thanksgiving\u2026 for good behavior.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Revelation\u2026 Chapter 7 \u2013 The Truth and a New Beginning<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Guests had already begun arriving by the time Adam and Joe maneuvered the wagon to the side door of the kitchen and began to unload their supplies; thankfully, nothing was needed for the night\u2019s party.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben heard Hop Sing\u2019s reprimands coming from the kitchen and begged to leave his guests.<\/span><\/p>\n

Entering the kitchen, Ben saw Adam coming through the door, \u201cIt\u2019s about time! Do you realize we expected you home hours ago!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot now Pa! We\u2019ll get everything unloaded and then we\u2019ll slip up the back staircase and quickly get cleaned up and dressed,\u201d announced Adam as he set the box on the counter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked up as Joe carried in the next box of supplies and Ben recognized that something had happened to his youngest. \u201cJoseph?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, please,\u201d Adam insisted as he guided his father out of the kitchen. \u201cPlease return to our guests and beg our forgiveness.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d Ben countered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll talk later, right now, your asking questions is delaying our appearance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Joe continued to carry in the supplies and when the last box was set on the counter, Adam placed his hand upon his brother\u2019s shoulder and said, \u201cLet\u2019s go get ready for \u2018my\u2019 party. Okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Joe answered with a half grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam and Joe appeared from their bedrooms at the same time, wearing matching black pants, white shirts with black string ties.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like for me to help straighten your tie?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A few moments later the brothers stood at the top of the staircase, with Adam resting his hand upon Joe\u2019s shoulder and gave him an encouraging squeeze.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd here he is,\u201d Ben proudly announced. \u201cThe guest of honor\u2026 Friends may I present you to my youngest, Joseph Cartwright as he celebrates his seventeenth birthday!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A large smile spread across Joe\u2019s face upon his father\u2019s introduction, and Adam was pleased to see it spread to his eyes. As expected, he hemmed and hawed, trying to keep up the charade that he thought the party was to welcome Adam to the family and formally introduce the brother to all their friends.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss met his bookend brothers at the bottom of the stair case, grinning like the cat that swallowed the canary, pleased with how they had managed to pull off the surprise party. Joe let out a cackle in appreciation of his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, this cain\u2019t be Shortshanks,\u201d Hoss boldly announced as Joe stood next to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet outa here,\u201d Joe replied as shoved his largest brother aside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m serious. Adam, you did bring the right brother home, didn\u2019t ya?\u201d Hoss again would not let the subject drop.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cConsidering I only took one brother to town, and he\u2019s the same brother I brought home\u2026\u201d Adam scrunched his brow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I mean it looks like Joe, and it laughs like Joe\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo I must be Joe,\u201d declared Joe as Hoss started circling him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, leave off!\u201d Joe announced as Hoss began touching him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss placed his hand upon Joe\u2019s head and then moved it to his chest. Not happy with the results, Hoss manhandled Joe to stand in front of him. Not believing what he was seeing, Hoss picked up his little brother and examined his boots.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, put your brother down,\u201d Ben stated as the shenanigans continued. \u201cWhat do you think you\u2019re doing?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you remember this summer?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd how could I forget?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Shortshanks only came up yay high on me,\u201d Hoss held he hands a good deal lower than the top of Joe\u2019s head upon his own chest, \u201cbut look at him now. I done swear he\u2019s grown two inches.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!\u201d exclaimed Joe as the girls around the room began giggling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, you\u2019ve had your fun. Boys, why not mingle with our guests.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss left, but Joe hung back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, about this morning, and the other morning\u2026 I\u2019m sorry. I\u2019ll try to do better, to be the son you want me to be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I only want you to be you. No one else. Now, go spend some time with your friends, they\u2019ve all complained about how mean I was to keep you here working so we could properly organize your party. Go on\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The party had well been underway by the time that Hop Sing opened the front door to admit Sheriff Roy Coffee. Ben broke away from Paul Martin to greet his long time friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy? What happened to your jaw?\u201d Ben asked in surprise upon seeing the bruise forming on the right side of the lawman\u2019s jaw.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe cringed when he saw the latest guest to arrive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy there, Joe,\u201d Adam whispered, having made his way to his brother when he saw who stepped into the great room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, got into a little bit o\u2019 trouble at the Bucket o\u2019Blood. I got it all worked out, nothing broken.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou or the saloon?\u201d Ben teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean, there was a fight and there was no damage?\u201d Ben laughed, \u201cWonders never cease to amaze me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnce the fella got his equi\u2026 equi\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEquilibrium?\u201d Adam offered as he approached the men who stood just inside the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s it, and he got some much needed sleep, he was fine and I released him to his family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking to Adam, Ben raised an eyebrow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe just happened to be in the vicinity when all the commotion started.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn fact, Adam here helped me get the man to the cell so he could sleep it off.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Adam, I\u2019m sure Roy appreciated your assistance. But what of Joe? I don\u2019t like him being exposed to that element.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, he had a few choice words to say about the matter, but we talked it over and he understood what happened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I do thank you for helping explain things to Joe. I only let him enter the Bucket when either Hoss or I can be with him\u2026 try to steer him away quickly if things look like they\u2019re going to get out of hand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt upset him, but he\u2019ll be fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam excused himself when one of the ladies from town came up to chat with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Before the end of the evening, Ben and Hoss had presented Joe with a custom tooled, black saddle for Cochise, with a matching bridle and reins.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSeeing as you was outgrowing the stirrups of your saddle,\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, I\u2026 you already bought me a saddle when I lost Warrior.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat saddle didn\u2019t fit you much better than your original. And I think Cochise will be mighty happy with the quality of this saddle too,\u201d bragged Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam presented Joe with the newest Winchester repeating rifle and a black leather scabbard to match his new saddle, after receiving permission from their father that the rifle would be acceptable.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The guests had long left, and Joe had headed up to bed leaving the older members of his family downstairs enjoying a bottle of Ben\u2019s finest brandy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Adam, would you like to tell me the truth behind the partial truth you told when Roy arrived?\u201d Ben asked as he settled back into his leather chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked up, curiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure what you\u2019re implying?\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019ve lived for seventeen years with Joseph Francis Cartwright as my youngest son, and I can tell a partial truth the moment I hear it. You\u2019re supposed to rub off on him, set the example. He\u2019s not supposed to rub off on you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

If a big man like Eric \u201cHoss\u201d Gunnar Cartwright could be said to giggle, he did.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were late getting home this afternoon and you said we\u2019d talk about it later\u2026 It\u2019s later, so talk.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, but I won\u2019t break all of Joe\u2019s confidences\u2026 I feel I made huge progress in getting to understand why Joe is the way he is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s easy older brother,\u201d announced Hoss. \u201cHe\u2019s Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m being serious. You\u2019ll remember in the beginning that I didn\u2019t want this to be a surprise party, especially after you said it would be the perfect cover by telling everyone it was a welcome home party for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u2026 But we done it\u2026\u201d Hoss was pleased. \u201cHe shore were surprised standin’ up there on the landin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot as surprised as you think.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Hoss looked to each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did get into a little trouble this afternoon, and\u2026\u201d Adam breathed deep, held it, and exhaled. \u201cWe almost lost him today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d Ben tersely asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s bottled up a lot of his feelings towards me and how you\u2019ve welcomed me into the family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we smoothed over our differences this afternoon, and maybe it was good that things happened the way they did. Father\u2026\u201d Adam looked at Hoss after hearing him clear his throat. \u201cPa, let\u2019s just say it\u2019s not been easy on him, being the youngest. I\u2019m the newest member of the family and you readily invite me into the discussion concerning the ranch and the various contracts. Joe may be the youngest, but he does have an astute business sense that you\u2019ve not given him a chance to reveal to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s just a\u2026\u201d Ben started to say.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s no longer a boy, no longer a child\u2026 He is a young man on his way to becoming a man grown. And we, and I mean WE, can\u2019t continue to treat him as a child one moment and expect him to act like a grownup the next. I can see how confusing the whole situation is for him. And my arrival didn\u2019t help matters.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will not have you talk of leaving! Is that clear?!\u201d Ben shouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have no intention of leaving\u2026 It\u2019s just that, we\u2019re all so much older than Joe that we\u2019ve forgotten what it was like to be his age, his feelings, his insecurities,\u201d Adam concluded. \u201cIt hurt him extremely this morning when no one wished him a happy birthday and he still had to \u2018work\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

All three looked up when they heard \u201cPa?\u201d from the top of the staircase and saw Joe, for the most part, still dressed; though he had removed his string tie and unbuttoned his shirt part way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was the one who punched Sheriff Coffee.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShortshanks?! You slugged Roy?\u201d Hoss asked, his eyes widened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I did. I was mad and upset and\u2026 I lost control.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYOU LOST CONTROL?! You just lost a lot more than control!\u201d Ben\u2019s face flushed in anger while Hoss shrank away from the verbal explosion. During his outburst he\u2019d sat forward in his chair and firmly gripped the armrests.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d yelled Adam gaining Ben\u2019s attention. \u201cJoe\u2019s already agreed that when not required to be here, he will ride into town and he will work part time, without pay, for the month of November helping Roy do whatever it is that Roy wants done around the jail. He\u2019s been charged, had a fair trial, accepted his conviction from a jury of his peers, and accepted his sentence. It\u2019s over and it\u2019s done with.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m his father! How dare you?!\u201d Ben demanded as he swiftly rose to his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019m his brother\u2026\u201d replied Adam as he continued to sit in the blue chair to the side of the fireplace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d pleaded Joe. \u201cDon\u2019t be angry with Adam. I should have talked with you about how I was feeling. I\u2019m sorry. If I had talked, none of this would have happened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With one son sitting in shocking disbelief, another son sitting with an authoritative smugness, and his last son standing in front of him looking as if he was getting ready to proceed to the gallows, Ben lost all his bluster and sat down.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam was at the breakfast table when Ben entered the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have one amazing son, in your youngest,\u201d Adam stated. \u201cAfter all he put himself through, after all he perceived and believed\u2026 He still has the compassion to love us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you\u2026 He is a blessing. About last night, I\u2019m sorry for losing my temper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cApology accepted. You do know that we had planned to keep most all of what he told you last night a secret.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI realize that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, if you don\u2019t mind, I\u2019d like to skip church services and spend some more time with Joe. Yesterday was quite traumatic and emotional for him, and well\u2026 I still feel there\u2019s so much more about him that I could learn and maybe today can be a little easier on him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have a better idea. Hop Sing!\u201d Ben called out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Hop Sing answered upon entering the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you please make a picnic basket for us today? The family is going on a picnic.\u201d Hop Sing bowed as he turned to leave. \u201cOh and Hop Sing, you\u2019re invited too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Lifting his coffee cup to his lips, Adam raised an eyebrow in askance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think this family, the whole family, will enjoy a day of talking\u2026 We all need to get our feelings out into the open, be comfortable in asking any questions that need to be asked. And I promise, I won\u2019t lose my temper when I hear the answers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou heard him, Hoss. We got a witness too,\u201d Joe stated as he and Hoss entered the room at the tail end of the conversation. Joe giggled upon taking his seat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs there something you\u2019d like to reveal now? Joseph?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh\u2026 No Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, what are we going to talk about?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think I could start by telling you of my growing up years in Boston, going to Harvard, and my tenure in the Navy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to hear about those exotic islands and the native women,\u201d Joe laughed as he scooped scrambled eggs onto his plate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d chastised Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry Pa, those exotic islands he\u2019s been reading about are in the Pacific Ocean and I spent all my career, except for my last voyage in the Atlantic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, sit up straight,\u201d Ben encouraged. \u201cAnd I guess you\u2019d like to hear more about your mother and my journey west.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would Pa. I really would,\u201d answered Adam as he sat back in his chair and wondered about all the forthcoming revelations\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

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

~The End June, 2013<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

(Adam and, his college roommate, Ashley’s first trip to Amelia’s Gentlemen’s Club, as referenced in one of the flashback scenes, is told in my story His First Time<\/a>.\u00a0 It was originally included in the story; but was removed and then took on a life of it’s own.\u00a0 The story and it’s sequel have received a Mature Rating and are not intended for readers under the age of 18.)<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Story Tags: Abel Stoddard, Adam Cartwright, Ben Cartwright, Hop Sing, Hoss Cartwright, jail \/ jailed, Joe \/ Little Joe Cartwright, Paul Martin, revenge, Roy Coffee<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Reviewer: <\/span>ansinico<\/a><\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>09 Aug 2013 09:55 am Title: <\/span>Chapter 7 — The Truth and a New BeginningWell l stayed the course and very much enjoyed the tale and your imagination, being an old traditionalist l think maybe that you have changed my opinion somewhat.The dialogue, confusions and\u00a0 action made for an extremely interesting read…sometimes, and me being a Joegal l felt like giving LJ a slap, but only coz the making up would be kinda nice.l loved the relationship that developed between Adam and Hoss…Bluewindfarm you made the separation between Ben and Adam feasable and completely believable.Thanks very much.<\/span><\/div>\n
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Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Ansinico, I’m glad you ‘stayed the course’ and read to the end.\u00a0\u00a0I believe\u00a0I’m a traditionalist, but sometimes ideas just come that take me in a different direction.\u00a0 Yes, I do believe there were several times where Joe deserved a slap, if only for the making up afterwards (tee hee he).\u00a0 Even with the circumstances as they were, I felt\u00a0Adam’s character was true to the Adam of the series, whether a younger brother or not, Adam would be there to watch out for them.\u00a0 Aren’t we just glad that Adam felt that way in San Francisco?Thank you for taking the time to read and letting me know\u00a0how you liked the story.\u00a0 It is appreciated.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Reviewer: <\/span>ansinico<\/a><\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>08 Aug 2013 04:00 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 1 — San Francisco ConfusionDidn’t think l would get into this story, usually like my BZ to be traditional but l am very much enjoying it, and want to see it out.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Kaci<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>12 Jun 2013 12:11 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 7 — The Truth and a New BeginningThe interaction between the family was perfect. \u00a0It worked with Adam being raised by his Granfather Stoddard with the Adam we see in the series. \u00a0The story we see in the first eps.would have aligned. \u00a0Love Joe….who always thinks every crisis is about him. \ud83d\ude42 Excellent story.Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Thank you for the review.\u00a0 I honestly felt that whether he was raise by Ben or by Abel, Adam would be the Adam we knew.\u00a0 Every crisis is about Joe, isn’t it?\u00a0 (Too funny ;0)<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Dodo<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>11 Jun 2013 01:19 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 7 — The Truth and a New BeginningA wonderful finale!\u00a0 Peace and quiet at last on the Ponderosa…for now!\u00a0 Great epic story BWF – you did yourself proud with this fanfic.\u00a0 Award yourself a gold star!<\/span>
\n Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>I’m so glad you enjoyed yourself this evening by reading my story, and I’m thrilled with your reviews.\u00a0 Thank you so much.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Dodo<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>11 Jun 2013 01:11 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 6 — It Should Have Been Smooth SailingNo one said having a little brother would be easy!\u00a0 And don’t Adam know it!\u00a0 Another absorbing chapter of Cartwright life.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Dodo<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>11 Jun 2013 01:01 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 5 — Coming TogetherJust loving this saga.\u00a0 Just hope Adam knows what he’s let himself in for.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Dodo<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>11 Jun 2013 12:53 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 4 — Could it Get Any Worse?No matter what they throw at those Cartwrights, they bounce\u00a0back!\u00a0 Thank goodness!!\u00a0 Another fascinating chapter which smooths the way for the three brothers to be together at last.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Dodo<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>11 Jun 2013 12:39 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 3 — What’s the Worst that Could Happen?Phew – what a heart-wrenching chapter for Ben!\u00a0 Can’t imagine what he must have felt when realising his first born was not dead but there on the ranch!\u00a0 You’ve kept my interest and the suspense of the story has me hooked!<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Dodo<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>11 Jun 2013 12:23 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 2 — It Was Supposed to be a Simple Trip HomeTrouble seems to follow those Cartwrights wherever they go!\u00a0 But at least the three brothers are together, facing what hits them.\u00a0 Great read.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Dodo<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>11 Jun 2013 12:20 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 1 — San Francisco ConfusionWhat an enjoyable read and such a different concept as to Adam’s early years!\u00a0 Joe and Hoss certainly have a surprise coming, and as for Ben!!!!<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Cheaux<\/a><\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>09 Jun 2013 02:54 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 1 — San Francisco ConfusionI enjoyed this story, especially the first few chapters. \u00a0Your inclusion of nautical terminology lent an air of authenticity to Adam’s world. \u00a0Seems to me there are more tales to be told in this universe and I hope to read more from you.Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Thank you for reading and reviewing.\u00a0 It was fun researching\u00a0for certain parts of\u00a0my story.\u00a0 I’m sure there will be more stories from me, and it seems like I’ll also need to continue with this ‘new’ reality.By the way, Thank You very much for reminding me of the etymology of certain words I originally used within my story.\u00a0 I forgot to ‘research’ that aspect of my story.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>jfclover<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>09 Jun 2013 11:41 am Title: <\/span>Chapter 1 — San Francisco ConfusionVery interesting concept, BwF, an enjoyable story to read with a truly different idea that begs us to wonder how the C’s will cope with this situation. \u00a0The brothers’ relationships sort of fell right into place as if nothing had been out of the ordinary for 17 years. \u00a0Noce job!Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Thank you for reading and reviewing.\u00a0 I too wonder how the C’s will cope…\u00a0 I’m glad you enjoyed how I wrote of the brothers’ relationships, it just seemed natural for it to happen that way… But believe me, should I choose to write more of this alternate reality, I’m sure the road will become rocky before it settles in again.<\/span><\/p>\n
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<\/div>\n
Reviewer: <\/span>Laurie\u00a0<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>07 Jun 2013 08:52 pm Title: <\/span>Chapter 7 — The Truth and a New BeginningQuite a story, hope there’s more, thanksAuthor’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Thank for reading and reviewing.\u00a0 I’ll have to see what else my writing muse can inspire along the new lines of the new ‘oldest’ brother.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>BettyHT<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>06 Jun 2013 11:08 am Title: <\/span>Chapter 7 — The Truth and a New BeginningWonderful story about assimilating the missing brother into the family and the repercussions of that.Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Thank you for reading the story to its conclusion, I’m sure that I’ve only scratched the surface of the repercussions\u00a0the Cartwrights will face.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>BettyHT<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>06 Jun 2013 10:26 am Title: <\/span>Chapter 3 — What’s the Worst that Could Happen?Now that was powerful emotional — and I loved the ending of this section.Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Betty, Thank you for reading and reviewing.\u00a0 I’m glad you enjoyed my story.\u00a0 I hadn’t planned on the ending happening like this, but my writing muse kept whispering and I kept writing.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>BettyHT<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>06 Jun 2013 09:27 am Title: <\/span>Chapter 1 — San Francisco Confusion<\/span><\/p>\n

What an intriguing storyline — you got me hooked!<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0 When a man rescues one of Ben Cartwright\u2019s sons not once, but twice; the stranger brings huge implications for the family. Will it bring them together or tear them apart?<\/p>\n

Rating: Teen+ for mild language, violence, and mild adult situations. \u00a0 (61,135 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":18704,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[2,7,23,1008,41,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1785","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actionadventure","category-a-u","category-drama","category-family","category-hurtcomfort","category-prequels","wpcat-2-id","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-41-id","wpcat-30-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2848,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/clipper.jpg?fit=210%2C135&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12133,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12133","url_meta":{"origin":1785,"position":0},"title":"Frightened Beyond Reason (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"June 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. 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