{"id":1944,"date":"2009-09-12T09:28:03","date_gmt":"2009-09-12T13:28:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1944"},"modified":"2026-07-22T07:24:51","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T11:24:51","slug":"top-gun","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1944","title":{"rendered":"Top Gun (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Joe\u2019s ego explodes after he has faced down Doc Holliday. A WHN for \u2018Calamity Over the Comstock\u2019<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K \u00a0WC 8700<\/p>\n

Top Gun<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright picked up the gun which had fallen to the floor and took at it intently before handing it back to Cal.\u00a0 \u2018You know Cal, you\u2019re right,\u2019 he said. \u2018A fellar who can\u2019t hold his liquor ain\u2019t nothing but a boy.\u2019\u00a0 He looked deep into her eyes. \u2018I want to thank you Cal \u2026 for giving my boy back to me.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Cal<\/em> smiled at him warmly. \u2018Thank you Mr Cartwright \u2026 for giving me the chance of knowing him.\u2019\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Ben smiled at her as he gave her back the gun and then walked towards the door where Doc Holliday was standing. He paused before he left the room. \u2018You know Mr Holliday,\u2019 he said. \u2018You really oughta do something about that cough.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Doc Holliday gave him a sheepish look as Ben turned and walked though the doorway. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he agreed. \u2018I oughta do something about that cough.\u2019 He watched as Cal walked over to the porch and stood watching the four Cartwrights in the dimly lit street outside. <\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss were putting Little Joe up into his saddle and holding him steady, for Joe was swaying precariously in his seat \u2026. The effects of his brother\u2019s punch obviously still with him.\u00a0 Cal suspected that he was also slightly under the weather from all the punch he\u2019d been drinking.\u00a0 She sighed as she watched Ben mount up and tip his hat to her before the four Cartwrights turned and began to ride slowly down the street. She would have liked to get to know Joe even better than she had \u2026 maybe even settle down with him as she\u2019d hinted \u2026 but it wasn\u2019t to be.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Beside her, Doc Holliday stood silently waiting. Finally he spoke. \u2018You meant what you said about you and me Cal?\u2019 he asked.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2018Sure Doc, she replied with forced brightness. \u2018We gotta lot of places to go and a lotta things to see. We ain\u2019t hardly seen any of em yet.\u2019\u00a0 Cal took a deep breath. \u2018Hey Doc,\u2019 she added. \u2018I\u2019m thirstier than a bullfrog on a hot skillet. Would you fetch me a drink?\u2019 She heard the man walk back into the room, but all her energy and attention was focussed on the rider in the middle of the group that was disappearing around the end of the street. \u2018So long \u2026. Little Joe,\u2019 she whispered softly.<\/em><\/p>\n

Adam put out his hand to steady his younger brother in the saddle yet again and rolled his eyes at Hoss who was riding on the other side of Joe. Hoss grinned back at him and then gestured towards their father who was riding in front of them, his back straight and his eyes directed in front.\u00a0 Even in the darkness both of them could see that the man was not exactly happy and his body language portrayed that fact very clearly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 ventured Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned slightly in the saddle and glanced at Joe who was swaying before answering Adam. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve been thinking. You realize that we have quite a problem on our hands.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben lifted an eyebrow as he indicated Joe. \u2018I\u2019m well aware of that fact Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018Not all of this is from Hoss\u2019 punch.\u00a0 Your younger brother has been dipping into that punch bowl far too often this evening and he\u2019s feeling the effects of it now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hid a grin at his father\u2019s words.\u00a0 Somehow he didn\u2019t think that the man meant that to be funny and one look at Joe was enough to tell that his father was right. He held onto his brother\u2019s arm tightly to keep him upright as he answered his father. \u2018No I don\u2019t mean that,\u2019 he said. \u2018By tomorrow morning he\u2019ll be over it.\u00a0 I meant about what happened back there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Your brother will be hearing the sharp end of my tongue about what happened back there in the morning when he\u2019s capable of listening to me,\u2019 replied Ben firmly. \u2018Don\u2019t you worry about that!\u00a0 I knew that girl would be trouble the moment he brought her home.\u2019 He snorted. \u2018Doc Holliday indeed! What was the boy thinking?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss exchanged another look before Hoss spoke up. \u2018You know how he gets Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018He don\u2019t mean half of what he does.\u2019\u00a0 He held onto his brother\u2019s arm protectively as Joe gave a slight moan and swayed yet again in the saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave Hoss a stern look. \u2018You think that facing Doc Holliday was a smart move then?\u2019 he said sarcastically. \u2018The boy could have been killed Hoss!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No of course I don\u2019t think it was real smart,\u2019 replied Hoss. \u2018Only \u2026\u2019 he gave Adam a pleading look. \u2018Only Joe didn\u2019t mean it Pa.\u2019\u00a0 He swallowed. \u2018I reckon he just got in over his head is all,\u2019 he ended feebly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded his head. \u2018That he did,\u2019 he replied firmly. \u2018And he\u2019s going to regret it in the morning, I can assure you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019\u00a0 Adam tried again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What I meant was \u2026. Didn\u2019t you see the looks that everyone was giving Joe back there? I mean \u2026 it isn\u2019t every day someone faces down a gunfighter of that calibre and gets away with it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What are you getting at Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I think that once word gets around about what\u2019s happened, every idiot within a hundred mile radius is going to try and make a name for himself.\u00a0 They\u2019ll come looking for the man who faced down Doc Holliday and Joe\u2019s going to be a target for any two-bit gunslinger that comes to town.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stopped and stared at Adam. \u2018I hadn\u2019t thought about it like that,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018You could be right son.\u2019 He stared at Joe who had hunched over in the saddle and was holding his forehead feebly. \u2018Then we\u2019d best keep him out of town for quite a while I think,\u2019 he said. \u2018This young man won\u2019t be seeing anyone for quite a while Adam, so you don\u2019t need to worry about anyone taking him on.\u2019\u00a0 He spurred up his mount again. \u2018Let\u2019s get home boys.\u00a0 It\u2019s late and your brother looks as if he\u2019s going to throw up any minute.\u2019\u00a0 He turned and spurred his horse to a trot while behind him Adam and Hoss rolled their eyes at each other and propped Joe up between them again before following their father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up as Joe reached the bottom step and stood looking silently at his father and brothers at the breakfast table. \u2018Well?\u2019 he said. \u2018Are you going to join us Joseph, or are you going to just stand there all morning?\u2019 he asked sarcastically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed as he glanced at the food on the table. \u2018If it\u2019s all the same with you Pa, I\u2019d rather not,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018My stomach ain\u2019t too good this morning.\u2019\u00a0 He gave his father a feeble smile and began to slink hopefully towards the front door, but stopped abruptly as the man spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sit down Joseph,\u2019 said Ben sternly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed and walked to the table, sliding into his chair without a word. Ben reached over and filled his plate with eggs and bacon, putting it down in front of the young man and motioning to it. \u2018Eat,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I really don\u2019t feel \u2026\u2019 Joe stopped as he saw the expression on his father\u2019s face and sighed before picking up his fork. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he said in a resigned voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned at him. \u2018Feeling a bit seedy this morning?\u2019 he asked, his amusement displayed on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shot his brother a dark look. \u2018Must be that punch Hoss gave me last night,\u2019 he muttered, giving Hoss a look as well as he fingered the dark bruise on his chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think it is more likely to be effects from the punch you were drinking rather than the punch from your brother,\u2019 said Ben, glaring at his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u2018Maybe,\u2019 he muttered. He pretended to swallow a mouthful of his breakfast, but only succeeded in making it blatantly obvious that he wasn\u2019t eating at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Speaking of which,\u2019 continued Ben. \u2018We have a lot to discuss about what happened last night Joseph. Doc Holliday for one.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes lit up. \u2018I faced him down real good, didn\u2019t I?\u2019 he said proudly. \u2018Did ya see the way he \u2026\u2019 He stopped as he noticed his father\u2019s expression. \u2018I mean \u2026\u2019 his voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes, I did see him,\u2019 said Ben, nodding his head and pointing his finger under Joe\u2019s nose. \u2018I also saw you make a complete fool of yourself \u2026. Not to mention the danger that you put yourself in Joseph.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa \u2026 I couldn\u2019t help it!\u2019 protested Joe. \u2018I had no choice! Doc Holliday was \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Doc Holliday is one of the fastest guns in the West,\u2019 interrupted his father. \u2018No one in their right mind would challenged him the way you did last night Joseph.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I always thought little brother weren\u2019t in his right mind,\u2019 chuckled Hoss gleefully. His expression changed to a serious one immediately as his father turned to glare at him and he bent his head again and began to eat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You are very lucky that you came out of it alive,\u2019 continued Ben sternly. \u2018You were asking for trouble last night young man and it was the sheer grace of God that saved you from it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe puffed up a little. \u2018I don\u2019t reckon God had much to do with it Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Didn\u2019t ya see Doc Holliday pretend to cough right at the last minute.\u00a0 I reckon he was scared of my quick draw.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss began to laugh into their napkins as Ben glared at his youngest son. \u2018The only thing he was scared of was \u2026\u2019 he stopped, unsure whether or not what he was about to say was gong to sink into Joseph\u2019s head and yet through his anger unwilling to humiliate the boy by letting him know that Cal had really been the one to save him by holding a gun on Doc Holliday right at the crucial moment. \u2018Joseph, Doc Holliday would no sooner be scared of your draw than fly to the moon,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now I don\u2019t want to hear any more of that nonsense thank you!\u2019 Joe pulled a face and bent over his food again, pushing it around his plate with his fork.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And another thing,\u2019 continued Ben, ignoring the sigh that emanated from his youngest son at his words. \u2018You had no right to take that girl to the Fireman\u2019s Ball in the first place when you knew what Doc Holliday had in mind.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But I promised Cal,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018You always say that we should never go back on a promise Pa.\u2019 He gave his father a triumphant look which quickly turned to a worried one as Ben stared at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018She would have understood,\u2019 his father said firmly. \u2018If you\u2019d bothered to explain it to her.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh she knew,\u2019 explained Joe airily. \u2018But I told her not to worry about it.\u00a0 I told her that I could take care of myself and I was right.\u2019\u00a0 He grinned at his brothers proudly and Adam and Hoss both shook their heads at him.\u00a0 However, Joe chose to ignore the warning and continued to dig himself a proverbial hole. \u2018I guess she had trust in me,\u2019 he said proudly. \u2018After all \u2026 I\u2019m a pretty good shot.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put his elbows on the table and placed his face in his hands. \u2018Joseph have you not heard a single word I\u2019ve been saying this morning?\u2019 he asked wearily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure I have Pa,\u2019 replied Joe. \u2018Only \u2026 well I guess that Cal at least had faith in me.\u2019\u00a0 He stood up. \u2018That reminds me,\u2019 he said. \u2018I thought I\u2019d go into town this morning and say good bye to her.\u00a0 I reckon she \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sit down!\u2019 said Ben sternly. \u2018The only place you\u2019ll be going this morning young man is out to the South Pasture with Hoss. You have a very full day of fence post digging ahead of you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat down and gave his father an appalled look. \u2018But Pa,\u2019 he began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben held up his hand to silence the young man. \u2018Don\u2019t you but Pa<\/em> me,\u2019 he said. \u2018I said post digging it is and post digging is what you\u2019ll be doing \u2026 today and every day until I decide differently.\u00a0 Is that clear?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Cal \u2026.\u2019 protested Joe. \u2018I never got to say goodbye to Cal.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That can\u2019t be helped,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018Now get out to the barn and get that buckboard loaded up with the equipment you\u2019ll need.\u00a0 Hoss \u2026 go and help him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018There are times when I wonder about that boy,\u2019 said Ben wearily as the front door closed behind them. \u2018I have a feeling that nothing I said sunk into that head of his at all Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think you might be right,\u2019 chuckled Adam. \u2018He does have a talent for getting into trouble and then not even realising the seriousness of the whole thing once it\u2019s over.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018One thing is for sure though,\u2019 said his father. \u2018You were right last night son.\u00a0 We need to keep him away from town for a long time until this all blows over.\u2019 He picked up his coffee and began to sip it. \u2018Joseph will be becoming very familiar with many fence posts before he gets back into that town I can assure you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Give it here will ya?\u2019 Hoss gave his younger brother a frustrated look as he held out his hand for the shovel. \u2018Are you gonna do anything or just stand there?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned at his older brother. \u2018I\u2019m just admiring the way you do that Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019re so strong.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes narrowed. \u2018Don\u2019t you give me none of that,\u2019 he said suspiciously. \u2018I know what you\u2019re up to little brother. Don\u2019t think that I don\u2019t.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes widened. \u2018Up to?\u2019 he said innocently. \u2018No idea what you mean older brother.\u2019 He grinned at his brother as he resumed his position against the buckboard again while he watched him work. He fiddled with his gun-belt as he did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I dunno why ya insisted on wearing that gun way out here too,\u2019 grunted Hoss. \u2018Ain\u2019t no use for it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave his brother a withering look. \u2018A man like me has to be prepared,\u2019 he said smugly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Prepared? Prepared fer what? We got our rifles in the buckboard in case we need em fer a coyote or something.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head at his brother\u2019s ignorance. \u2018Rifles are all very well,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I\u2019m talking bout real shooting Hoss.\u00a0 The kind that only a top-gun like me understands.\u2019\u00a0 He leant forward and put his hand on Hoss\u2019 shoulder. \u2018I\u2019d hate not to be able to defend you if someone came along and threatened us brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss snorted. \u2018Defend me?\u2019 he said. \u2018I can defend myself thanks!\u00a0 What do I need you to defend me for?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave his brother a superior look. \u2018I know you\u2019re a pretty good shot Hoss, but you must admit that I\u2019m the real expert in the family when it comes to shooting.\u00a0 Look what happened when I \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

If you mention what happened with Doc Holliday agin I\u2019m gonna wring your scrawny neck,\u2019 threatened Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m sick and tired of hearing bout it! It\u2019s all you\u2019ve talked about fer the last week while we\u2019ve been out here diggin these fence holes.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked hurt. \u2018Well I thought you enjoyed hearing bout how I faced him down,\u2019 he said huffily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I did,\u2019 admitted Hoss. \u2018Once \u2026. Not fifty times.\u00a0 I was there, remember?\u00a0 I saw it with my own eyes.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Joe dreamily. \u2018It was impressive, weren\u2019t it? I had my fingers ready to \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He launched into yet another description of what had happened that night.\u00a0 Hoss shook his head and resigned himself to listening yet one more time, noting as he did so just how the story had grown in Joe\u2019s mind from the first telling.\u00a0 If he really believed his little brother\u2019s details, Doc Holliday had been shaking in his boots at the thought of facing Joe Cartwright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wouldn\u2019t let Pa hear ya talking like that,\u2019 he warned as Joe finished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa knows just how brave I was,\u2019 Joe assured his brother. \u2018He knows exactly what happened.\u2019\u00a0 He fingered his gun again. \u2018I reckon Pa is mighty glad to have a son who is so good with a gun \u2026. Just in case of an emergency,\u2019 he added. \u2018Ya never know when you\u2019ll need someone who is handy with a gun.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head again and tried to still the laughter that was threatening to spill over in his throat. \u2018Yeah, right,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2018Pa can\u2019t ya get him to shut up about it?\u2019 whined Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m plumb sick of it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Have patience Hoss,\u2019 said Ben with a short laugh. \u2018He\u2019ll get over it. It\u2019s just that he\u2019s got nothing else to think about lately as he\u2019s stuck out here on the ranch with just us.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss rolled his eyes. \u2018Well I\u2019m the one who has ta be out there every day with him and hear it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Can\u2019t ya send him back inta town yet?\u2019\u00a0 He gave his father a pleading look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not yet son,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018It\u2019s only been just over a week. He glanced over to where Joe was working in the barn. \u2018I\u2019ll tell you what though.\u00a0 Tomorrow Adam can take him over to the branding and give you a break. How\u2019s that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well thanks a lot,\u2019 muttered Adam. \u2018I don\u2019t want to listen to it any more than Hoss does.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced at Joe who was bending over a bale of hay in a very strange position. \u2018What on earth is he doing?\u2019 He muttered and strode over to his younger brother and stared at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up and grinned. \u2018Hi Adam,\u2019 he said, continuing to push the bale of hay with his feet along the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his hands on his hips and his head on one side. \u2018Would you mind telling me what you\u2019re doing?\u2019 he asked sarcastically. \u2018Is there something wrong with your hands?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s grin widened. \u2018Nope,\u2019 he said. \u2018\u2019Don\u2019t want there to be either.\u2019 He looked at his hands proudly. \u2018A top-gun like myself can\u2019t afford to hurt em ya know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam groaned. \u2018You are not a top-gun,\u2019 he said. \u2018None of your tricks Joe!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tricks? Me?\u2019 asked Joe indignantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes you,\u2019 said Hoss, coming to stand beside Adam. \u2018I ain\u2019t forgotten how ya tricked me into thinking Cal was a boy when she first came here neither.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried to look shocked, but failed miserably. \u2018I told ya I didn\u2019t know bout that Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018Weren\u2019t my fault if you was just a peeping tom. Looking in on a lady when she was in the tub \u2026 I was shocked at that older brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss lunged forward, but Joe nimbly sidestepped behind Adam and avoided his brother\u2019s reach. \u2018That\u2019s enough,\u2019 said Adam firmly as he pushed him away. \u2018Just get your chores done will you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sure thing older brother,\u2019 said Joe with another grin at Hoss. \u2018I wanna get em done real quick today. I\u2019ve got practising to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What kinda practising?\u2019 asked Hoss suspiciously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hitting targets,\u2019 said Joe, indicating his gun. \u2018I\u2019ve been practising with bottles every day to keep my draw fast.\u00a0 I can give you both a few pointers if ya like.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted. \u2018Really?\u2019 he said in a sarcastic tone. \u2018And who was it who helped Pa to teach you in the first place little<\/em> brother?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked smug. \u2018Well you mighta helped teach me,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I sure am the best in this family now. After all \u2026 it isn\u2019t everyone who can face down a man like Doc Holliday.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You forget that you didn\u2019t actually outdraw the man,\u2019 said Adam, his sarcastic tone continuing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I didn\u2019t have to,\u2019 replied Joe. \u2018He knew that I would.\u00a0 That\u2019s why he let me face him down.\u00a0 He was scared that I\u2019d outdraw him. Face it brothers \u2026 no one comes close to me round here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam crossed his arms in front of his chest and looked at Hoss, who winked at him.\u00a0 Without a word they stepped forward and picked up their younger brother \u2026 one on each elbow \u2026 and carried the protesting young man to the water trough outside the barn and dropped him into it. While Joe sat spluttering in the water, Ben watched from the front porch and discretely turned his back, laughing as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Now remember Joe. The deal is that you stick with me while we\u2019re in town, OK?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe rolled his eyes and sighed. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018You and Pa told me about a hundred times already.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t a child you know!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well then stop acting like one,\u2019 said Adam in an easy tone as he brought the buckboard to a halt outside the Mercantile. \u2018You should realise that Pa is making these rules for your own good. He explained to you what the reaction of people might be to what happened.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah yeah,\u2019 muttered Joe as he jumped down. \u2018But it was three weeks ago now.\u00a0 No one cares.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ve been told,\u2019 said Adam firmly. \u2018Stay at my side the whole time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe made a face behind his brother\u2019s back as Adam entered the store and then followed him in. \u2018Morning Mrs Walsh,\u2019 he said to the woman behind the counter. \u2018How are you today ma\u2019am?\u2019\u00a0 The storekeeper\u2019s wife reacted to the greeting in the way that most females did \u2026 by simpering and giving Joe a huge smile in return. There is something about that young man<\/em>, she thought to herself. If I were twenty years younger \u2026<\/em>\u00a0 She caught the eye of her husband looking at her and quickly began to clear up the goods on the counter to distract herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hi Joe!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned to see his good friend Mitch Devlin on the other side of the room. \u2018Hi!\u2019 he called and took a step towards him, only to be pulled back by the collar by Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said to stay next to me,\u2019 his older brother hissed in his ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Aw Adam, have a heart,\u2019 whined Joe pleadingly. \u2018Its just Mitch and I won\u2019t go out of the store.\u2019\u00a0 He gave his brother one of his best puppy dog looks and Adam felt himself weakening in spite of his best intentions not to.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018All right,\u2019 he said. \u2018But not out of the store. Understood?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Understood,\u2019 sad Joe happily and bounded across to Mitch. \u2018How ya been Mitch?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine.\u00a0 Haven\u2019t see you since the night of the Fireman\u2019s Ball,\u2019 replied his friend. \u2018Everyone\u2019s been asking where you\u2019ve been?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah?\u00a0 How come?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mitch slapped his friend on the back. \u2018On account of what ya did of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s been the talk of the town ever since.\u00a0 You\u2019re a real hero Cartwright!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face lit up. \u2018I am?\u2019 he said. He tried to look modest, but failed. \u2018Well it really weren\u2019t nothing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing?\u2019 said Mitch excitedly. \u2018You call facing down Doc Holliday nothing? It weren\u2019t nothing Joe. I reckon news of what you\u2019ve done is all over Nevada by now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya reckon?\u2019 Joe puffed up. He took out his gun and began to twirl it in his hand as a few other people clustered around the two young men. \u2018I really did nothing special,\u2019 he said, drawing himself up to his full height. \u2018Nothing that I hadn\u2019t warned him I\u2019d do anyways.\u00a0 Did ya see how scared he looked?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure did,\u2019 breathed a girl who hung onto his arm and looked at him adoringly. \u2018You were so brave Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swaggered a little. \u2018Weren\u2019t really nothing ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. \u2018I just did what I had to.\u2019\u00a0 He twirled the gun several more times, showing off a couple of fancy tricks that he\u2019d been practising. The crowd of people seemed suitably impressed and he did it again to their delight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon we\u2019ve got a real live top-gun in our town,\u2019 said Mitch proudly. \u2018He\u2019s my best friend you know,\u2019 he whispered to one of the girls and she smiled at him happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Across the other side of the room, Adam shook his head. \u2018Can you load that order up for me please Sam?\u2019 he said wearily. \u2018I\u2019ve got something to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sam Walsh nodded and laughed. \u2018Sure thing Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019d best get that youngster outta here before he starts shooting up the joint. He sure is a caution ain\u2019t he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tell me about it,\u2019 sighed Adam. He sighed again as he walked over to the group of people who were clustered around his brother. Joe was busy twirling his gun and grinning at the young lady who was still hanging onto his arm. \u2018Excuse me,\u2019 said Adam, elbowing his way to the middle of the group. \u2018Joe has to go now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Aw gee Adam,\u2019 said Joe instantly. Adam pulled him by the collar and he just had time to add. \u2018See ya!\u2019 before the two Cartwrights left the store.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why are you so sore?\u2019 asked Joe, rubbing his neck as they made it to the buckboard and Adam let go of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Get up in the back of that buckboard and be quiet,\u2019 ordered Adam. \u2018I\u2019ve had enough of your nonsense.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged his shoulders and climbed up, scowling down at his brother. \u2018You\u2019re just jealous,\u2019 he said. \u2018Jealous of a top gun like me.\u00a0 Don\u2019t forget it was me who faced down Doc Holliday and \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He stopped as Adam threw a sack of grain up to him and it hit him in the stomach. Ow!\u2019 he said. \u2018That hurt!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Keep working,\u2019 said Adam grimly. \u2018One more word out of you and you\u2019ll regret that Pa even let you come into town today.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I just don\u2019t get it Pa,\u2019 said Adam wearily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t get what son?\u2019 asked Ben as he sat next to the fireplace and puffed on his pipe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How on earth Joe managed to face him down,\u2019 replied his son. \u2018I mean \u2026 Doc Holliday!\u2019 He gave his father a puzzled look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised an eyebrow. \u2018Doc Holliday had a very good reason for backing down the way he did,\u2019 he said. \u2018Cal had a Colt 45 aimed right at him. She had promised to blow him to pieces if he harmed Joseph.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s jaw hung open. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018But how?\u00a0 I mean \u2026 where \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018In that muff she was carrying,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018She hid it in there.\u00a0 I think she was very fond of your brother you know Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was speechless for a full minute. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018But even so \u2026. Weren\u2019t she and Doc Holliday supposed to be \u2026 well \u2026 an item?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So people say,\u2019 said Ben, puffing easily on his pipe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well that\u2019s even more reason to protect Joe from all of this,\u2019 said Adam quietly. \u2018We\u2019re going to have to work on squashing that boy\u2019s ego some you know Pa.\u00a0 Hoss and I can\u2019t stand it much longer.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You have my full permission son,\u2019 chuckled Ben. \u2018To tell you the truth I don\u2019t think that I can stand it much longer either.\u2019\u00a0 Father and son smiled at each other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe closed one eye and stared at the bottle on the fence before reached down and pulling his gun out of the holster and shooting it to pieces. \u2018Good job Cartwright,\u2019 he said, swaggering a little as he replaced the gun. \u2018Damn good shooting.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t let Pa hear you cussing,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe spun on his heel and faced his two brothers who were standing behind him. \u2018I didn\u2019t hear you sneaking up,\u2019 he said accusingly. \u2018You should be careful of that you know.\u00a0 Someone with reflexes as finely-tuned as mine are is likely to blow your head off without thinking, if you get my meaning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes at Hoss. \u2018Well we get the part about you not thinking,\u2019 he said sarcastically. \u2018Where did you get all those bottles?\u2019 he asked, pointing to the large pile of glass next to the fence. \u2018If you took them from the cellar Hop Sing will have your hide little brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I can\u2019t be bothered with worrying about that,\u2019 said Joe as he set up a few more bottles on the fence. A top-gun has to keep practising with something.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted. \u2018You know Joe, I think it\u2019s about time someone brought you down a peg or two.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah?\u2019 Joe put his hands on his hips and gave his older brother a challenging look. \u2018And who might you have in mind?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took out his gun and fingered it casually. \u2018I might take on the job myself,\u2019 he said easily and winked at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now it was Joe\u2019s turn to snort. \u2018Yeah?\u2019 he said. \u2018You and which army? Face it Adam \u2026 you mighta helped Pa teach me ta shoot, but the pupil has got better than the teacher now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Set em up,\u2019 said Adam, unfazed by his brother\u2019s remark. \u2018Best out of five?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019re on,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Only \u2026 you\u2019ve been warned older brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam checked the bullets in his gun while Joe set up some more bottles.\u00a0 Hoss leant on the fence and grinned at Adam, winking at him while Joe\u2019s back was turned. \u2018OK,\u2019 said Joe when all the bottles were up. \u2018Best out of five it is.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hang on,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018How about making it a bit more interesting?\u00a0 Best and quickest out of five?\u2019\u00a0 He smirked at Hoss who winked at him again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked wary. \u2018Well \u2026.\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the matter little brother?\u2019 asked Hoss gleefully. \u2018For a top-gun such as yourself that shouldn\u2019t be a problem, should it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Course not,\u2019 snorted Joe. \u2018Best and quickest it is. You start us off Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Alrighty,\u2019 said Hoss easily. \u2018On the count of three. Ready?\u00a0 One \u2026 two \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 Adam and Joe both stood side by side at the ready, their hands flexed and their eyes on the bottles. \u2018Three!\u2019 shouted Hoss and watched carefully as both his brothers shot at the bottles.\u00a0 At the end of thirty seconds, Adam had hit five bottles and was putting his gun back into his holster as Joe was still shooting his fourth bottle. Joe glanced across at his older brother in disbelief and then holstered his own gun silently as Adam crossed his arms over his chest and stared at him with a smug expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well?\u2019 Adam said, lifting his eyebrows in that way he had which was guaranteed to infuriate Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m having an off day,\u2019 muttered Joe shooting his brother a dark look. \u2018That was just a lucky shot.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Five lucky shots more to the point,\u2019 chuckled Hoss. He walked over and slapped Adam on the back. \u2018Looks like you\u2019re the top-gun in this family after all older brother.\u2019 They both laughed as they watched Joe turn on his heel and stomp off angrily. \u2018Seems a bit mean now,\u2019 said Hoss as he watched his brother disappear around the side of the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He deserved it,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018It\u2019ll do him good.\u00a0 You know Hoss, even Pa told me that he\u2019s had enough of Joe carrying on about how good he is.\u2019\u00a0 He slapped Hoss on the back. \u2018Believe me,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019ll get over it and then we can get back to normal again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I sure hope so,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I reckon you might have done this family one big favour older brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced over at Joe who was silently pushing food around his plate. \u2018Well Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018You seem very quiet this morning.\u2019 Joe shrugged and said nothing. \u2018Would you please stop pushing that food around and eat something?\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019d like to get to church on time.\u2019\u00a0 Joe put a mouthful of food in and chewed it noisily. \u2018Close your mouth when you\u2019re eating please,\u2019 instructed Ben.\u00a0 Joe clamped his jaw shut and glared at his father without a word. \u2018And you can get that look off your face as well,\u2019 said Ben firmly. \u2018Just because your brother beat you at a shooting match is no reason to \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He only beat me cause I was having an off day,\u2019 remarked Joe, through his mouthful of food.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018Why don\u2019t you just accept it?\u2019 he said. \u2018You were beaten fair and square and that\u2019s all there is to it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah little brother,\u2019 added Hoss. \u2018Guess you ain\u2019t a top gun after all, eh?\u2019\u00a0 He and Adam both chuckled and Joe glared at them again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s enough boys,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I think its about time we give all of this a bit of a rest now don\u2019t you?\u00a0 Since the day Joe brought Cal home we\u2019ve had too much shooting talk.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well at least Cal believed in me,\u2019 said Joe indignantly. \u2018She thought I was a good shot.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pity she ain\u2019t here then, ain\u2019t it?\u2019 said Hoss gleefully and laughed even harder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said that is enough!\u2019 ordered Ben sternly.\u00a0 He threw down his napkin and stood u. \u2018I\u2019ll see you three outside in five minutes at the most.\u00a0 I do not intend for us to be late for church this morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glared at his brothers across the table. \u2018You heard Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018We ain\u2019t gonna talk about it no more.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head as he also stood up. \u2018You won\u2019t get me talking about it little brother,\u2019 he said. \u2018When someone is a top-gun they don\u2019t need to tell everyone.\u2019\u00a0 He smiled at Joe. \u2018I know I\u2019m the best shot in this family and that\u2019s all there is to it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe reached over to hit his brother, but Adam quickly stepped backwards and avoided his reach. \u2018Any time you want some more lessons Joe just tell me,\u2019 he said. \u2018Seems to me like you might be needing a few more to get that draw up to standard.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss laughed even louder and stood up to follow Adam from the room, leaving a very disgruntled Joe behind them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He was asking bout you,\u2019 whispered Mitch in the corner of the churchyard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Me?\u2019 squeaked Joe. \u2018How come?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well not by name,\u2019 said Mitch.\u00a0 \u2018But he\u2019s been asking bout the fellar that drew down on Doc Holliday.\u00a0 Says that he wants to meet him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe puffed up with pride. \u2018He did?\u2019 he said. \u2018Who is he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t sure,\u2019 said Mitch. \u2018But he sure looked like a man who could handle a gun.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe fingered his chin thoughtfully. \u2018In the Silver Dollar you say?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah.\u00a0 For the past two days. I told him that I\u2019d give you the message when I saw you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What do you suppose he wants?\u2019 asked Joe with a worried expression. \u2018Maybe he wants to draw on me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon he just wants to see ya,\u2019 said Mitch. \u2018He said that he wants to shake the hand of the man who beat Doc Holliday.\u2019\u00a0 He slapped his friend on the back. \u2018I told ya that you\u2019d be famous round these parts, didn\u2019t I?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried unsuccessfully to look modest. \u2018I reckon so,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So are you gonna go and see him? asked Mitch excitedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hesitated. \u2018I reckon not,\u2019 he said. \u2018Pa told me I have to stay out of town at the moment unless one of him or one of my brothers are with me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So?\u00a0 Get one of them to go with you,\u2019 said Mitch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u2018I guess it\u2019s worth a try,\u2019 he said. \u2018Wait here.\u2019\u00a0 He walked over to where his father was talking to Doc Martin and smiled at him tentatively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Joseph?\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I was just wondering something Pa,\u2019 said Joe in his most polite voice as he tipped his hat at the doctor. \u2018Morning Doc,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good morning Joe,\u2019 replied the doctor with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What is it Joseph?\u2019 asked Ben impatiently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father hopefully. \u2018Are we staying in town this morning?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course not,\u2019 said his father. \u2018We\u2019re going home for Sunday lunch as usual.\u2019 He turned back towards Paul again. \u2018Now as I was saying \u2026\u2019 he began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned again impatiently. \u2018What?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Is it OK if I don\u2019t come home for lunch? I was kinda thinking that I might stay in town for a bit and \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyebrows raised at the question. \u2018No,\u2019 he said abruptly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried again. \u2018Well, can I come back into town this afternoon?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph what is so important that you want to be in town for?\u2019 asked Ben impatiently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hesitated, knowing full well that his father wouldn\u2019t like the sound of what he had in mind. \u2018Nuthin special,\u2019 he said. \u2018Only\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben rolled his eyes at Paul who was trying desperately hide a grin. \u2018Joseph whatever you have to say, then come out and say it,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019m trying to have a conversation here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Could I come back into town tonight \u2026.\u2019 Joe gave his father a pleading look. \u2018Please?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. The youngster had been isolated out at the ranch for over three weeks and he knew how hard that must have been for him.\u00a0 Still \u2026 there was the question of what had happened at the Fireman\u2019s Ball and Ben wasn\u2019t likely to forget it. \u2018I\u2019ll tell you what,\u2019 he said. \u2018If you can get one of your brothers to come back into town tonight then you can come in for a drink. \u2018How about that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s grin said it all. \u2018Gee thanks Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Bye Doc.\u2019\u00a0 He practically ran back to Mitch to tell his good news. \u2018I\u2019ll be in tonight,\u2019 he said. \u2018You tell that guy I\u2019ll see him then and he can shake the hand of the man who drew down on Doc Holliday.\u2019\u00a0 He grinned at the very thought of it, hoping that it was Adam who would come with him tonight. \u00a0He could hardly wait to see the look on his smug brother\u2019s face as everyone praised him for what he\u2019d done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2018I said no and I meant it,\u2019 said Adam firmly. \u2018I\u2019m not going into town tonight.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Hoss won\u2019t go either and Pa said that I have to go with one of you,\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018You have to come!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t have to do anything,\u2019 said Adam easily. \u2018I\u2019m not going.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But … but that means that I can\u2019t either!\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Very good \u2026\u2019 replied Adam as he turned back towards his book. \u2018You worked it out in one.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What do you want to go so badly for anyway?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hung his head. \u2018Nuthin special I guess,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine.\u00a0 Then you won\u2019t miss anything,\u2019 said Adam and turned another page.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But \u2026\u2019 Joe scowled at his older brother, knowing full well that when his brother was in one of these moods that there was no shifting him. \u2018It ain\u2019t fair!\u2019 he muttered as he stalked away. His eyes narrowed and a grin spread across his face as he walked away, and he began to strut. He\u2019d show those brothers of his! He\u2019d have that whole town telling him how good he was tonight and that stranger would shake his hand in front of everyone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe walked into the Silver Dollar saloon and looked around the crowd expectantly. He immediately spied Mitch standing at the bar and swaggered over to him. \u2018Hi,\u2019 he said, patting him on the back. \u2018How\u2019s it going Mitch?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mitch grinned at him. \u2018I\u2019m glad you came Joe,\u2019 he said and then looked over his friend\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Which one of your brothers came in with you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Neither,\u2019 said Joe, leaning on the bar. \u2018I\u2019ll have a beer thanks Sam. \u2018Pa \u2026 changed his mind.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Great!\u2019 said Mitch. He lifted his drink and tapped it against Joe\u2019s glass. \u2018We haven\u2019t had a chance to celebrate your success Cartwright!\u2019\u00a0 The two friends took a swig of their beers and grinned at each other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Cartwright!\u2019 shouted someone over the side of the room. \u2018Joe Cartwright\u2019s here!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Immediately, a group of men clustered around Joe, some patting him on the back and others shouting their congratulations. Joe puffed up and gave up all pretence of looking modest as he began to relate facing down Doc Holliday for those who hadn\u2019t been there to see it and refresh it in the minds of those who had. Several of the saloon girls hung onto his arms and looked at him adoringly. Someone put another beer into his hand and he downed it quickly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So this is the famous Joe Cartwright,\u2019 said a voice behind him and Joe turned quickly to see a tall man standing staring at him.\u00a0 He looked to be a few years older than his brother Adam and was just as dark as his brother. On his hip hung an impressive gun-belt, complete with a fancy gun. \u2018Let me shake the hand of the man who faced down Doc Holliday,\u2019 he said and held out his hand to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe held out his own hand and shook the other man\u2019s trying not to wince at the strong grip that he gave him. \u2018Howdy,\u2019 he said. \u2018And who might you be Mister?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tanner,\u2019 said the man, looking Joe up and down. \u2018Abe Tanner. I thought you\u2019d be older.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe puffed his chest out. \u2018Age ain\u2019t got nothing ta do with it,\u2019 he said proudly. \u2018A fast draw don\u2019t necessarily come with age Mr Tanner.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No I suppose it doesn\u2019t,\u2019 said the man easily. He took two steps back and flexed his hands. \u2018Let\u2019s see how good you are shall we?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone immediately stepped back, leaving Joe standing by himself in the middle of the room. \u2018Huh?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said let\u2019s see how good you are,\u2019 repeated Abe. \u2018I\u2019ve been waiting for the chance to draw down on the man who beat Doc Holliday. Draw!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe held up his hands. \u2018Hey now mister,\u2019 he protested. \u2018I\u2019m just having a friendly drink here.\u00a0 There ain\u2019t no need for \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the matter Cartwright? You yellar or something?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face flushed. \u2018Of course not,\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018I just don\u2019t see the point that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I do,\u2019 said Abe in a determined voice. \u2018I\u2019ve travelled here especially to face you Cartwright. Now draw!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed and glanced at the man\u2019s fancy gun. \u2018Hey listen,\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s no \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abe raised his eyebrows. \u2018You draw Cartwright or you walk out of here as a yellar coward. Your choice.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed again and glanced around at the silent crowd who stared back at him. He drew a deep breath, said a silent prayer and drew his gun.\u00a0 The next moment he felt a blinding pain in his left shoulder and slumped to the floor as darkness overtook him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m going to kill that boy!\u2019 shouted Ben as he stormed out of Joe\u2019s bedroom and looked down from the top of the stairs into the living room. \u2018Adam! Hoss! Saddle the horses!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s happened?\u2019 asked Adam, springing to his feet immediately.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Your younger brother has gone out of his window,\u2019 thundered Ben. \u2018I told that boy \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 His voice trailed away as words escaped him. \u2018I\u2019m gong to haul him out of that town by the scruff of his neck!\u00a0 I\u2019m going to \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa calm down,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Ya don\u2019t know that\u2019s where he \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He turned as there was a knock on the front door and all three Cartwright walked towards it.\u00a0 Hoss flung it open to reveal Sheriff Coffee standing there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Roy!\u2019 said Ben from behind his son. \u2018What are you doing here?\u00a0 It\u2019s not Joseph, is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy nodded his head. \u2018I\u2019m afraid it is Ben,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m going to kill that boy!\u2019 he thundered. \u2018What trouble has he got himself into now?\u00a0 Where is he? Joseph!\u2019 He stared past the sheriff into the darkness of the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy put his hand on Ben\u2019s shoulder to quiet him. \u2018Ben, he\u2019s in the wagon out there,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s \u2026 he\u2019s been shot.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The colour ran from Ben\u2019s face. \u2018Shot?\u2019 he said breathlessly. \u2018What? How?\u2019\u00a0 He took a step forward. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 he called. He pushed past Roy and ran to the wagon, followed by Adam, Hoss and Roy. Joe was indeed lying in the back of the wagon, his eyes closed and his face pale in the lamplight. \u2018Joe!\u2019 sad Ben weakly and then looked across at Roy. \u2018Is he \u2026\u2019\u00a0 His voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s alive Ben,\u2019 said Roy quickly. \u2018He\u2019s been shot in the shoulder and he\u2019s lost a lot of blood. That bullet has to come out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s jaw dropped. \u2018Why didn\u2019t you get Paul to do it in town?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Why put him in a wagon and bring him out here without taking out the bullet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Because Paul is at the Henderson\u2019s ranch,\u2019 said Roy easily. \u2018I sent a man to get him here.\u00a0 It was quicker to bring him out here than to wait in town for him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded, the man\u2019s reasoning making sense to him. \u2018Help me get him inside boys,\u2019 he said anxiously. \u2018Careful now.\u2019\u00a0 They lifted Joe between them and he groaned at the movement. \u2018Steady son,\u2019 said Ben gently. \u2018We\u2019re taking you to your room.\u2019 Joe groaned again, his eyes shut firmly as they made their way up the stairs towards his bedroom. Only when they had laid him on the bed did he open them and speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m \u2026 sorry Pa,\u2019 he murmured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben bent over him and patted him on the forehead. \u2018Shh,\u2019 he said quietly. \u2018We\u2019ll talk about that later young man.\u2019\u00a0 And we certainly will!<\/em> he thought grimly. I have a few things to say to you when you\u2019re up to hearing it, young man!<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That bullet has to come out straight away,\u2019 pronounced Paul Martin, looking up at Ben. \u2018I\u2019ll need \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We know what you need,\u2019 interrupted Adam. \u2018Come on Hoss.\u2019\u00a0 They both left the room to get the towels and hot water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe groaned again as Paul ripped his shirt even further and pulled the material away from his wound.\u00a0 He picked up a cloth and wet it, wiping the blood away form the edges of it.\u00a0 Ben winced and sat down on the edge of the bed, looking into Joe\u2019s eyes as the doctor worked. \u2018It\u2019ll be over in a few minutes son,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed and simply nodded at his father without saying anything. His hand reached out for Ben\u2019s and he smiled slightly as he felt the man\u2019s strong grip as he grasped it. Within minutes, Adam and Hoss were back in the room, their arms full of towels and a basin. \u2018Hop Sing is heating more water,\u2019 said Adam as he set it down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good,\u2019 said Paul, as he rolled up his sleeves. He motioned to Ben. \u2018Ben \u2026\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and put his free arm across Joe\u2019s body, effectively holding him down onto the bed.\u00a0 He continued to look deep into his eyes as the doctor began to probe for the bullet, watching his son wince and bite down on his lip. Presently a groan escaped from Joe\u2019s lips and beads of sweat began to form on his forehead. \u2018Nearly there,\u2019 murmured Ben encouragingly. \u2018Hold on son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Got it!\u2019 announced Paul and Joe\u2019s eyes showed his relief instantly. Ben let go of the youngster, but continued to hold onto his hand as Paul washed the wound clean. \u2018It shouldn\u2019t need any stitches,\u2019 the doctor said. \u2018It wasn\u2019t too deep.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well that\u2019s something,\u2019 said Ben in relief. He patted Joe on the head. \u2018All over Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded and let out the breath that he\u2019d been holding.\u00a0 He watched as the doctor bound up his shoulder with a swathe of bandages and drank the sedative as the man put it to his lips. Within minutes his eyelids had closed and he had slipped into unconsciousness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019ll be fine Ben,\u2019 said Paul as he washed his hands. \u2018He\u2019s a lucky boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s jaw clenched tight.\u00a0 Now that the danger for Joe was over, his mind went back to how this had happened in the first place. \u2018Let\u2019s go downstairs,\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018I want to hear from Roy exactly how this came about.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up at the ceiling and eased his sore shoulder up and down as he did so. \u2018Would you stop doing that?\u2019 said Ben as he entered the room. \u2018You\u2019ll break the wound open again!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stopped. \u2018Sorry Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Only I gotta exercise it if its gonna get back to normal.\u00a0 The Doc said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He meant later \u2026 not yet,\u2019 said Ben as he sat down. \u2018You have plenty of time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe made a face. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018Only it\u2019s my left shoulder, so I gotta be twice as sure that it\u2019ll be OK.\u2019 When his father looked at him blankly, he added. \u2018I\u2019m left handed.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So it\u2019ll affect my draw.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018I don\u2019t want to hear one more word about you and guns,\u2019 he said. \u2018That\u2019s what led you into this mess in the first place young man.\u2019 Joe slid down under the covers and said nothing. \u2018And another thing young man,\u2019 continued his father. \u2018When you\u2019re up and around you\u2019ll be punished for sneaking off into town like that.\u00a0 I would have thought you\u2019d have had more sense than to put yourself in danger like that!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I didn\u2019t know he was gonna draw on me,\u2019 muttered Joe miserably. \u2018I thought he just wanted to meet me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018When are you going to learn Joseph?\u2019 said Ben, his eyes flashing. \u2018I thought you understood what I\u2019d been trying to tell you?\u00a0 Obviously you didn\u2019t listen to a word I was saying.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I did!\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018Only \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He gave his father a sheepish look. \u2018Only I just wanted to hear everyone telling me how good I was I guess.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018How good you were,\u2019 he said sternly. \u2018Why do you always have to try to prove yourself Joseph? You don\u2019t always have to be the best you know.\u2019 He pointed his finger at his son. \u2018And no one likes a show off.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir.\u2019 Joe gave his father one of his best puppy dog looks and absently began to move his shoulder up and down again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And stop exercising that shoulder!\u2019 Ben rebuked him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing entered the room and plonked a tray down on Joe\u2019s lap. \u2018Breakfast!\u2019 he said and disappeared again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s wrong with him?\u2019 asked Joe, wrinkling his nose up at the food on the tray.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s angry because he found all his bottles for pickling preserves broken out the back of the house this morning,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh.\u2019\u00a0 Joe slunk down in the bed even further and his father gave him a hard look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph? D you know anything about those bottles?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018Well \u2026 kinda,\u2019 he admitted, picking up his fork and beginning to eat. \u2018Boy am I hungry this morning!\u00a0 These eggs look great you know Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stared at his son, not willing to be side-tracked.\u00a0 \u2018Well you\u2019ll have to have that out with Hop Sing about the bottles,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018He\u2019s not going to be very happy with you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019re not going to tell him, are you?\u2019 Joe gave his father a pleading look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Ben as he sat back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest.\u00a0 Joe breathed a sigh of relief and grinned at his father, but the grin disappeared quickly at the man\u2019s next words. \u2018You are,\u2019 said Ben firmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

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

Summary: \u00a0Joe\u2019s ego explodes after he has faced down Doc Holliday. A WHN for \u2018Calamity Over the Comstock\u2019<\/p>\n

Rated: K \u00a0WC 8700<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":15053,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,4,1007,13],"tags":[1316],"class_list":["post-1944","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-humor","category-joe-cartwright","category-whn","tag-calamity-over-the-comstock","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-4-id","wpcat-1007-id","wpcat-13-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/Calamity.png?fit=737%2C460&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1944","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1944"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1944\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/15053"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1944"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1944"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1944"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}