{"id":1956,"date":"2009-09-19T10:04:42","date_gmt":"2009-09-19T14:04:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1956"},"modified":"2026-07-24T10:02:37","modified_gmt":"2026-07-24T14:02:37","slug":"the-quarry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1956","title":{"rendered":"The Quarry (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>A bet between the Cartwright brothers goes horribly wrong and puts one of their lives at risk<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K (10,990 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Quarry<\/strong><\/p>\n

Hoss Cartwright peered intently at the tracks in front of him as he studied them. He looked up at his older brother Adam in frustration before speaking. \u2018I dunno Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018Seems like we ain\u2019t gettin any closer.\u00a0 This sure is one tricky cat.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam fingered his stubble-covered chin and gazed down the slope in front of them where the sun was just tipping over the top of the mountain in the distance, spreading the last rays of light towards them. \u2018I think you\u2019re right brother,\u2019 he replied. \u2018Seems like we might be best off calling it a day.\u2019\u00a0 He held out his rifle in front of him, looking at it mournfully. \u2018I was really hoping we\u2019d get him though.\u00a0 Seems like this rifle isn\u2019t going to be shooting at any cats today though.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss shook his head as he stood up beside his brother. \u2018Sorry Adam,\u2019 he said mournfully. \u2018I done my best.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam slapped his brother on the back and grinned at him. \u2018That\u2019s all I can ask for Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018After all, your best is better than anyone else\u2019s round here.\u00a0 If you couldn\u2019t track that cat, then no one could.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Hmph!\u2019\u00a0 Both brothers turned at the sound behind them and Adam frowned as he saw their younger brother standing there with his hands on his hips. \u2018What\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u2019 he said grumpily.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Nuthin!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Nuthin at all!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam gave Hoss a glance and rolled his eyes before speaking. \u2018Well it means something little brother, so you may as well come on out with it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe shrugged his shoulders before replying. \u2018Well no offence Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018But it seems to me that you\u2019ve been leading us round in circles all day.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss took off his hat and scratched his head as he thought for a moment. \u2018Well that\u2019s because that cat\u2019s been leading me in circles all day,\u2019 he said at last.<\/p>\n

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Adam laughed out loud at his brother\u2019s remark and winked at Joe. \u2018Let\u2019s get back to camp,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019ll have to be heading home at first light so we may as well get some shut-eye while we can.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss merely shrugged as he followed his older brother, giving Joe a baleful look as he passed him.\u00a0 By the time they\u2019d made it back to camp, all three brothers were tired and cranky and looking forward to a meal and some sleep. \u2018Can\u2019t we stay out just one more day?\u2019 asked Joe as he eased off his boots in front of the small campfire. \u2018Brother here might just have a chance at getting a look at that cat if we give him one more day Adam.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated Hoss with his thumb.<\/p>\n

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Adam looked up from stirring the potful of beans over the fire. \u2018No we can\u2019t,\u2019 he said. \u2018You know that Pa is due home tomorrow from Sacramento and he\u2019ll be expecting us.\u00a0 Besides, three days is enough to waste on one cat.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You\u2019re right there,\u2019 agreed Joe. \u2018Stupid idea to come out after it in the first place if you ask me.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Really?\u2019 said Adam sarcastically. \u2018And what would you prefer to be spending your time doing little brother?\u00a0 Chasing some gal I suppose?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Probably that Becky Miller,\u2019 chimed in Hoss. \u2018Seems ta me that little brother here has been spending an awful lot of time over at the Miller place lately.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe made a face. \u2018You know very well that I\u2019ve been helping Bert with them horses,\u2019 he protested. \u2018He says I\u2019ve got a real eye for em.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You\u2019ve got a real eye for his sister Becky too,\u2019 said Adam with a chuckle. \u2018Hoss is right \u2026 you\u2019ve been spending an awful lot of time over there.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018So what if I have?\u2019 replied Joe grumpily. \u2018Sure beats spending time with you two.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Now, now little brother,\u2019 said Hoss with a wink at Adam. \u2018Ya can\u2019t say that ya\u2019d rather be anywhere else than out with us.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I wouldn\u2019t mind if we had anything to show for the last few days,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018But it seems to me that we\u2019ve just wasted our time out here. Three days and we\u2019ve got nothing to show for it thanks to your tracking skills brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Now hang on there!\u2019 said Adam indignantly as he noticed the hurt expression on Hoss\u2019 face. \u2018It\u2019s no one\u2019s fault that we didn\u2019t get the cat.\u00a0 Hoss is the best tracker round these parts and you know it Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well if he\u2019s the best tracker, then how come we\u2019re going home with nothing?\u2019 retorted Joe.<\/p>\n

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\u2018We\u2019re going home with nothing because that cat just outsmarted us,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Ain\u2019t nothing ta do with anyone\u2019s tracking skills!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Hmph!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Still seems funny ta me that one cat could get the better of us.\u00a0 You\u2019re supposed ta be so good at tracking brother \u2026 seems ta me that you didn\u2019t do a very good job this time.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Now see here \u2026.\u2019 began Hoss as he leant over to pull Joe forward by the front of his shirt. \u2018Ain\u2019t nothing wrong with my tracking skills ya little weasel.\u00a0 I can usually track anything and you knows it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Not this time,\u2019 retorted Joe as he shook himself free. \u2018What\u2019s wrong Hoss?\u00a0 Slipping a bit are ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Settle down the both of you,\u2019 interrupted Adam. He held up the pot of beans in front of him. \u2018Supper\u2019s ready.\u2019\u00a0 He ladled out a plateful of food for them all and then settled to eat his. \u2018Hoss is right,\u2019 he said between mouthfuls. \u2018He can track anything usually.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s a matter of opinion,\u2019 said Joe grumpily, still smarting from his brother\u2019s touch. \u2018Some animals like that cat are just too smart to be caught.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Not many,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m the best there is and it takes a mighty smart animal ta get away from me.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe\u2019s eyes lit up as he had a sudden thought. \u2018You think?\u2019 he said. \u2018How willing are you to prove that then brother?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss\u2019 eyes narrowed. \u2018What do ya mean?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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Joe leant forward and studied his brother\u2019s face for a moment. \u2018I mean, how much are you willing to bet on it?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What have you got in mind?\u2019 asked Adam warily. \u2018None of your tricks Joe!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Would I?\u2019 asked Joe, looking hurt. \u2018All I meant was I\u2019d be willing to place a bet that brother Hoss here couldn\u2019t track me down if I wanted to get away from him.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s a darned fool thing ta say,\u2019 retorted Hoss. \u2018Of course I could track ya down!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You reckon?\u2019 said Joe, his eyes shining now. \u2018Well I\u2019d be willing to place a bet that you couldn\u2019t brother.\u2019 He looked around. \u2018In fact I\u2019d be willing to place a bet that I could get away from both of you if I\u2019d a mind to.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s a sure bet Hoss,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018There\u2019s no way little brother here could pull it off.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss thought for a moment. \u2018You\u2019re on,\u2019 he said. \u2018But let\u2019s make it a bit more interesting. \u2018I\u2019ll give you a day\u2019s start Joe and then I\u2019ll start tracking ya.\u00a0 I\u2019ll bet that I\u2019ll find ya in three days.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe gave his brother a grin. \u2018You\u2019re on,\u2019 he said. \u2018How about you Adam? You gonna get in on it?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam thought for a moment. \u2018What are we betting?\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Um \u2026 How about we do Joe\u2019s chores fer a month if we can\u2019t find him in three days?\u2019 replied Hoss.\u00a0 \u2018And he has ta do ours if we do?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s not fair!\u2019 declared Joe.\u00a0 If I lose I have to do twice the chores that you two do.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam shrugged as he grinned at Hoss. \u2018Well it seems fair to me,\u2019 he said. \u2018Unless \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Unless what?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Unless you just don\u2019t think that you\u2019ll be able to pull it off,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Of course I can,\u2019 said Joe indignantly. \u2018It\u2019ll be easy!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well then \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018All right,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018You\u2019re on. I\u2019ll leave at first light.\u00a0 I can take the leftover supplies with me if you two go home and get more while you\u2019re waiting to give me a day\u2019s head start.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss frowned. \u2018What\u2019ll Pa say about this?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I mean \u2026 he\u2019s expecting us home and all.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well he can\u2019t say much if Joe\u2019s already gone can he?\u2019 Adam mused. \u2018Besides \u2026 he\u2019s been saying that we\u2019re due for a few days off.\u00a0 We\u2019ll just take them now.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Yeah he has, hasn\u2019t he?\u2019 Hoss grinned as he spooned up the last of his food and put his plate down. \u2018Well I think you\u2019d better get some sleep little brother.\u00a0 You\u2019ll be needing all ya strength in the next few days.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Don\u2019t you worry about me Hoss,\u2019 said Joe confidently. \u2018I\u2019ll be seeing you at home when this is all over.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be there before you even get hold of my trail.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018We\u2019ll see about that,\u2019 said Adam with a grin as he settled himself down as well. \u2018We\u2019ll see about that little buddy.\u2019<\/p>\n

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—————<\/p>\n

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Hoss was the first one up the next morning followed closely by Adam and as the two brothers hunched by the fire they discussed their plans for the day. \u2018We\u2019ll get straight back home and let Pa know what we\u2019re doing,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Then we\u2019ll get our supplies together so that we can leave at first light in the morning.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated the sleeping form of Joe with his thumb. \u2018No sense in giving this one any more of a head-start than we have to.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018What do ya reckon Pa\u2019s gonna say about this idea Adam?\u2019 asked Hoss as he helped himself to some breakfast.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Knowing our Pa \u2026 probably quite a lot,\u2019 admitted Adam. \u2018But like I said, he owes us a few days off \u2026 been a long time since we had any.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think he\u2019ll argue about it for long.\u2019\u00a0 He looked over as Joe began to stir under his blanket. \u2018Decided to join us have you?\u2019 he said. \u2018If I were you, younger brother, I\u2019d be getting as much sleep as you can now.\u00a0 Once we\u2019re on your trail tomorrow there\u2019ll be no resting for you.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Speak for yourself,\u2019 said Joe grumpily as he sat up and rubbed his eyes. He never was his best first thing in the morning. \u2018You two and going to need all the rest you can get now if you want to keep up with me tomorrow.\u2019\u00a0 Adam held a plate of food out to him, and Joe looked at it before wrinkling up his nose and pushing it away. \u2018No thanks,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m not hungry this morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

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In spite of his brother\u2019s comment, Adam put the plate on the ground next to Joe. \u2018You\u2019d better eat even so,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019re going to need it later.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe ignored the plate and stood up to stretch.\u00a0 He waited until both his brothers were looking away before rubbing the side of his head to alleviate the headache that he could feel was beginning to form.\u00a0 He had no intention of mentioning it to either of them, for sometimes they could be as bad as Pa about such things and Joe had no intention of either of them using something as simple as a headache as an excuse to call everything off.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What\u2019s wrong with you\u2019 asked Adam suddenly as he looked up and saw Joe massaging his temple.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Nothin,\u2019 replied Joe grumpily as he headed towards an outcrop of rocks. \u2018I just gotta go is all.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Seems our little brother got up on the wrong side of the bedroll this morning,\u2019 joked Hoss.\u00a0 He shouted to Joe as his brother disappeared behind the rocks. \u2018What\u2019s the matter shortshanks?\u00a0 Sorry ya started this bet?\u00a0 Worried that ya can\u2019t do it now?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You just worry about yourself,\u2019 came Joe\u2019s muffled voice from behind the rocks.<\/p>\n

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Hoss grinned and went back to eating his food again.\u00a0 After several minutes he called out again. \u2018You OK back there shortshanks?\u2019 There was no answer. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he called again. \u2018You OK?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe appeared from behind the rocks, adjusting his clothing as he did so. \u2018Quit yelling,\u2019 he said. \u2018I heard you!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss shrugged. \u2018I was beginning ta think ya\u2019d taken off on us already,\u2019 he said jovially. \u2018You were taking an awful long time back there. Something wrong?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe simply glared at him as he sat down and began to roll up his bedroll.\u00a0 He felt decidedly queasy this morning and relieving himself hadn\u2019t helped. He glanced down at the plate of the food beside him and his stomach churned at the sight of it.<\/p>\n

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\u2018You\u2019d better eat something,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I told you I ain\u2019t hungry,\u2019 retorted Joe as he stood up. \u2018Well if we\u2019re gonna do this then I\u2019d better get going I suppose.\u2019\u00a0 He picked up his canteen and saddlebag after slinging his bedroll over his shoulder. \u2018Make sure you get Couch home for me and give him a good rubdown won\u2019t you?\u00a0 He patted the horse\u2019s muzzle absently as he looked at his brothers.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Now don\u2019t ya go fretting bout that horse none,\u2019 said Hoss as he began to douse the fire. \u2018I\u2019ll give him the royal treatment before the day\u2019s out.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018See ya in three days then,\u2019 said Joe with a wave of his hand. \u2018I\u2019ll give my regards to Pa when I get home before you do.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You just spend the next few days worrying bout all them extra chores you\u2019ll be doing when ya do get there,\u2019 said Hoss.\u00a0 Joe grinned at his brother and waved again before turning away and entering the brush.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Come on,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Let\u2019s get out of here and back home.\u00a0 The sooner we face our Pa with this the better, brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

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—————<\/p>\n

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Joe stopped at the top of the rise and grinned as he watched his two brothers disappear into the distance, Hoss leading Cochise behind him. \u2018Good luck brothers,\u2019 he said gleefully and rubbed his hands together as he gave a short chuckle. He bent down and picked up a fallen tree branch from the ground and began to rake up the earth behind him, effectively covering his tracks.\u00a0 He then leapt up onto a rock and proceeded to jump from one large boulder to another before jumping down again onto the other side of the clearing where the ground was decidedly rocky.\u00a0 \u2018See if you can follow that!\u2019 he said with glee before turning away and running up the rocky incline, giggling as he went.<\/p>\n

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—————<\/p>\n

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\u2018You bet what?\u2019 asked Ben as he glared at both his sons. \u2018Well of all the blame fool things \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He put his hands on his hips. \u2018And just who do you both think is going to run this place while you\u2019re out there playing these silly games?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You said yourself that we could have a few days off,\u2019 reasoned Adam coolly. \u2018You know that we\u2019ve earned it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Of course you have,\u2019 replied his father frostily. \u2018I\u2019m not disputing that and you know it.\u00a0 I never meant for all three of you to be gone together at the one time, that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Aw Pa,\u2019 protested Hoss. \u2018Ya know we can\u2019t leave shortshanks out there thinking he\u2019s won. He\u2019ll be unbearable ta live with iffen we do.\u2019\u00a0 He gave his father a hopeful look. \u2018We\u2019ll only be gone two more days.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben shook his head and pretended to look stern. \u2018Well I suppose you\u2019ll have to go out and get him now,\u2019 he said. \u2018\u2019Although why you have to carry on in this way is beyond me!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam slapped his father on the shoulder. \u2018Gee thanks!\u2019 he said as he winked at Hoss. \u2018And don\u2019t worry Pa, we\u2019ll bring that baby son of yours back with his tail between his legs I can assure you.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben shook his head again as he turned towards the house. \u2018Better get an early night,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m assuming you\u2019ll want to leave at first light.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam winked at Hoss again before they followed their father into the house.<\/p>\n

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—————<\/p>\n

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\u2018There you go,\u2019 said Adam as he threw his brother\u2019s saddlebag across the barn to him. \u2018That\u2019s it then.\u00a0 Let\u2019s get going.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss grinned at his older brother as they led their horses out of the barn and into the dim dawn light outside. \u2018I wonder how far Joe got yesterday?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Not far enough,\u2019 replied Adam with a grin.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yep,\u2019 agreed Hoss, returning the look. \u2018Don\u2019t latter how far that weasel gets, we\u2019ll soon be on top of him fer sure.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced across the yard as the sound of horses\u2019 hooves reached his ears. \u2018Now who in tarnation could that be at this hour?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Both brothers stood still and looked in amazement as Doctor Paul Martin rode around the side of the barn and lifted his hand in greeting to them. \u2018Hello boys,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What on earth are you doing here at this hour Paul?\u2019 asked Adam, shaking the doctor\u2019s hand after the man had dismounted. \u2018Someone out this way sick?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You could say that,\u2019 replied the doctor grimly. \u2018Is your Pa here?\u00a0 I need to talk to him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s inside,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Paul eyed off the two horses. \u2018You two going somewhere?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Out hunting \u2026 in a manner of speaking,\u2019 said Hoss with a grin at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think you\u2019d better come inside and hear what I have to say before you go anywhere,\u2019 said the doctor. \u2018You might want to change your plans.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave Hoss a puzzled look and shrugged his shoulders before showing Paul the way to the front door of the ranch house.\u00a0 As he entered the room he shouted. \u2018Pa! Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright appeared at the top of the staircase. \u2018What in tarnation are you yelling about?\u2019 he asked grumpily. \u2018Isn\u2019t it enough that a man has to \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He stopped as he saw the doctor standing behind his two sons. \u2018Oh \u2026 I\u2019m sorry Paul.\u00a0 What are you doing out here so early?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve been out at the Miller ranch,\u2019 replied the doctor. \u2018I thought it best to call in here on my way home.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The Miller ranch?\u2019 said Ben in a surprised tone. \u2018I sure hope no one out there is sick.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m afraid they are,\u2019 replied Paul. \u2018Both Bert and Becky have come down poorly.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry to hear it,\u2019 said Ben. He motioned towards the table where the remains of breakfast still were. \u2018Coffee?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No thanks \u2026 I really don\u2019t have time.\u00a0 I just called in to see Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph?\u2019 asked Ben surprised. \u2018Why?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Bert told me that he\u2019s been over there a fair bit lately,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018I thought I\u2019d better check him out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He sure has,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018He\u2019s right taken with that Becky Miller at the moment and he can\u2019t stay away. Been helping Bert out with some chores around the place as an excuse.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s Joseph got to do with this?\u2019 persisted Ben. \u2018I\u2019m not sure what you\u2019re getting at Paul.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ben sit down,\u2019 said Paul. He settled himself on a chair in front of the fireplace and motioned for the others to do the same. When everyone was seated he leant forward and began to speak earnestly. \u2018Both Becky and Bert have been feeling a bit off colour during the past few days,\u2019 he said. \u2018At first I wasn\u2019t sure what was causing it, but now I\u2019m fairly certain that it is typhoid fever.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gasped. \u2018Typhoid?\u2019 he said. \u2018But \u2026 how?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul shook his head. \u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 he replied. \u2018It\u2019s obviously from a contaminated source of either water or food. Whatever the cause, it has them both down in a severe way. That\u2019s why when Bert mentioned that Joe has been over there I thought it best to take a look at him as well.\u2019 He looked around the room. \u2018Where is he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shot Adam and Hoss a worried look and licked his lips before replying. \u2018He\u2019s \u2026. He\u2019s not here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well then I suggest that you get him here as soon as possible,\u2019 said Paul grimly. \u2018Typhoid fever is nothing to mess around with Ben.\u00a0 That boy needs to be examined as soon as possible.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave Hoss an anguished look. \u2018He\u2019s been out with Hoss and I tracking a cat for the past few days,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s still out there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ve been with him?\u2019\u00a0 How was he?\u2019 asked Paul quickly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u2018he seemed fine,\u2019 he said and then hesitated. \u2018Except \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Except that he had a headache when we left him yesterday morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul frowned. \u2018You need to get that young man in to see me as soon as possible,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That may not be as easy as it sounds,\u2019 said Ben in a worried tone. \u2018You see \u2026\u2019 he shot Adam and Hoss an annoyed look. \u2018Joseph is out there trying to avoid being brought back home.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t understand,\u2019 said Paul.\u00a0 He listened as Adam gave him a run down on the bet that he and Hoss had made with their younger brother. \u2018I see,\u2019 he said when Adam had finished. \u2018Well all I can say is that you\u2019d better track him down quickly.\u00a0 If he is sick \u2026 I\u2019d hate to think of him out there with no medical assistance.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t you worry,\u2019 said Hoss confidently. \u2018I can track anything.\u00a0 I\u2019ll bring him back quick smart.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood up and faced his two sons. \u2018I\u2019m coming with you,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t you think you\u2019d better stay here Pa?\u2019 said Adam as he reached for his hat. \u2018I mean \u2026 well if Joe does make it home first that is.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben scratched his chin, \u2018Yes,\u2019 he mused. \u2018I see what you mean. All right then.\u00a0 You two get going and bring that boy back here quick smart.\u00a0 I\u2019ll wait here for him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul stood up as well. \u2018I\u2019ll be over at the Miller ranch,\u2019 he said. \u2018Send one of the hands to get me as soon as you get Joe back here.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at Ben intently. \u2018And do it quickly Ben \u2026 just in case.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded silently, his eyes saying everything that needed to be said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t you worry Pa,\u2019 Adam assured his father, placing his hand on the man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018You know that Hoss is the best tracker there is around these parts.\u00a0 There\u2019s no way that we won\u2019t find Joe.\u00a0 We\u2019ll have him back her before you know it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and gave his eldest son a reassuring smile that didn\u2019t reach to his eyes. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018Yes of course.\u00a0 Just bring that boy home son \u2026. and do it quickly.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe bent over the creek and looked at his reflection in the water before reaching down and scooping up a handful and sloshing it over his face.\u00a0 He closed his eyes and felt the cool water trickle down his neck, relishing in the coolness of it against his hot skin.\u00a0 He wet his bandanna and held it against his hot face for a moment, thinking how warm it was becoming for so early in the day.\u00a0 The cool water felt so good and he longed to stay in the shade of the tree for a bit longer, but instead he willed himself to get to his feet and began to move up the slope in front of him again. Far below him he could see the tiny figures of both his brothers as they rode across the plain and he smiled at the sight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No way you\u2019re gonna find me,\u2019 he said out loud. \u2018Just you try brothers!\u2019\u00a0 He laughed aloud before turning to continue climbing up the hill again, thinking with glee just how angry both of them would be in a couple of days when he reached home before them and they\u2019d have to eat their smart words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wiped his hot face again and fought back the urge to stop before he reached the top of the hill. He wondered why he was feeling so tired \u2026. After all he hadn\u2019t come very far this morning \u2026 and then pushed the thought from his mind as a sharp pain gripped him in the stomach and he was forced to stop and clutch his middle. \u2018Must be something I ate,\u2019 he muttered angrily. \u2018Why now or all times?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking around, spied a large boulder and went behind it.\u00a0 Moments later he reappeared again, adjusting his clothing and buttoning his pants. \u2018Don\u2019t know why I always go behind a rock,\u2019 he chuckled as he tucked in his shirt again. \u2018No one round here ta see me anyways.\u2019\u00a0 It was the third time he\u2019d had to relieve himself that morning and he wondered briefly what he could have eaten to cause it. \u2018I\u2019ll have a piece of that Adam when I see him,\u2019 he muttered. \u2018Him and his beans!\u00a0 I hope they\u2019re both suffering as well.\u2019 with a determined look he turned to climb the hill again, being careful to step only on the rocks as he made his way carefully up the slope.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood up and scratched his chin as he stared into the distance. \u2018Well?\u2019 asked Adam as he came up beside him. \u2018What do you think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s definitely come this way,\u2019 said Hoss thoughtfully. \u2018At least \u2026\u2019 He hesitated. \u2018At least I think that he did.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What do you mean .. you think he did?\u00a0 Don\u2019t you know?\u2019 asked Adam impatiently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gave his brother a frustrated look. \u2018Now hold on there Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018Tracking ain\u2019t that easy sometimes. I\u2019m beginning ta regret showing that little weasel some of the tricks I did.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What tricks?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well like this,\u2019 replied his brother, pointing to the ground. \u2018See that?\u00a0 It looks as though he\u2019s come this way \u2026 there\u2019s marks that could be his footprints \u2026. But then again they might not be.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss you\u2019re not making sense,\u2019 said Adam as he took off his hat and ran his fingers through his hair in a frustrated fashion. \u2018What are you talking about?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s like we saw before,\u2019 explained Hoss. \u2018Shortshanks done made his tracks look different by sweeping over them with a tree branch.\u00a0 Now I don\u2019t know iffen there are still his or something else.\u2019\u00a0 He bent down to look at the tracks closer. \u2018Hard to tell,\u2019 he murmured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well you\u2019d better make up your mind about them\u2019 said Adam. \u2018We\u2019ve got to find that boy Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya reckon I don\u2019t know that?\u2019 replied Hoss, giving his brother a tight look. \u2018I\u2019m doing my best Adam \u2026. Jest be quiet and let me think fer a bit.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bit his lip and tried to wait patiently while his brother scouted around the area.\u00a0 Within a few minutes Hoss was back again. \u2018We go this way,\u2019 he announced, pointing up the hill.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You sure?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018Nope,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018But I\u2019m guessing that we do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019d better hope that you\u2019re right,\u2019 replied Adam as they started up the hill. \u2018Joe could be getting mighty sick about now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well iffen he does then he\u2019ll do the smart thing and come straight back down ta meet us,\u2019 said Hoss confidently. \u2018He may be stubborn, but he ain\u2019t dumb Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam said nothing, but simply followed Hoss with a grim expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat up and blinked a couple of times in the bright sunlight.\u00a0 How long had he been lying here he wondered? He glanced up at the sun and decided that it was probably close to an hour.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t know why he felt so weak \u2026 he hadn\u2019t been moving that fast or for very long really \u2026. But try as he would he just couldn\u2019t seem to get enough energy together to make him want to get up and start again. He shook his head and forced himself to a standing position, unprepared to let his lassitude get the better of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He grinned as he looked down the slope and scanned the area around him.\u00a0 There was no sign of his brothers and in spite of himself he began to feel quite confident that he was going to outsmart them.\u00a0 He tried not to feel too cocky about it as he still had quite a bit of time to go before he could return to the ranch and revel in his victory over them, but he couldn\u2019t help but visualise how things would be when this was over.\u00a0 Adam and Hoss would be eating their words for the next month as they did his chores every day and Joe was determined to make the most of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned to leave the clearing in which he was standing when suddenly a wave of nausea overtook him and he clutched his stomach as he tried to overcome it.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t understand why, but all of a sudden he felt as he would throw up the contents of his stomach.\u00a0 He wondered if the food he\u2019d had a couple of hours ago had been bad, but knew that there was no reason for it to be.\u00a0 With a sudden movement he doubled over and vomited violently for several minutes before standing up again and reaching for his canteen to wash away the remains.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wet his bandanna and wiped the sweat from his face with it, realising with a start that it wasn\u2019t hot enough for him to be sweating in this way.\u00a0 He wondered for a moment if he were coming down with something, but dismissed the thought immediately from his mind.\u00a0 He would be all right again in a while. It was probably because he hadn\u2019t felt like eating anything much and the little he\u2019d had was now lost anyway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He forced himself to open his saddle bag and take out an apple.\u00a0 Looking at it for a moment he decided that he couldn\u2019t stomach it then and there and replaced it again.\u00a0 With a sigh, Joe felt his legs begin to give way beneath him and he sank to the ground before scrunching over to a small enclosure between two rocks and lying down again.\u00a0 He pulled his knees up to his chest to alleviate the stomach cramps that were overtaking him once again and closed his eyes again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well?\u2019\u00a0 Adam studied his brother\u2019s face carefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss took off his hat and scratched his head thoughtfully. \u2018I jest don\u2019t know Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018That little weasel \u2026 well I jest don\u2019t know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss it\u2019s been two days!\u00a0 We have to find him soon.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018I don\u2019t know what ta tell you Adam,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018I didn\u2019t think he\u2019d be able to outsmart me, but it seems like I done taught him too well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018I think we\u2019d better get on home then,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned on him. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018Ya ain\u2019t serious Adam!\u00a0 We can\u2019t leave shortshanks out here \u2026 specially when he could be sick!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam placed his hand on his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Hoss think about it for a moment,\u2019 he replied. \u2018You just said yourself that the time we set is nearly up.\u00a0 If Joe\u2019s smart he\u2019ll be headed on back to the ranch right now and by the time we get back there he\u2019ll probably be sitting there with his feet on the coffee table as he always is.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tried to smile. \u2018And Pa will be yelling at him to get his feet off the table as usual,\u2019 he said, trying to sound convinced of the fact. \u2018OK Adam, I guess we\u2019d better head back then.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced up the hill in front of them. \u2018I sure hope you\u2019re right but.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe held his head in an effort to stop the pounding that was coming at regular intervals. He wanted nothing more than for it to stop, but he knew that it was unlikely to do so while he was lying in the full sunlight the way he was. He tried to lift his body up from the ground, but found the effort more than he could manage and slumped back down again, putting his hand up over his eyes to shield them from the sun. He took several deeps breaths as he thought about his predicament.\u00a0 It was obvious to him now that he was ill and he wondered just what had caused it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018If it had been them beans of Adam\u2019s they would know it by now and be after me,\u2019 he murmured to himself and then frowned as he thought about the fact that he\u2019d been covering his tracks so well just so that they couldn\u2019t find him. \u2018Darn stupid bet,\u2019 he said out loud and then heaved up from the ground as another stomach pain overcame him.\u00a0 He retched again and again, but his stomach by now was empty and he had nothing left to bring up. Slowly, he undid the top of his canteen and poured some of the cool water down his throat, hoping that it might stop the vomiting feeling that was overtaking him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he replaced the stopper on the canteen he looked around him and noticed a small piece of shade a short distance away.\u00a0 With a determined look he began to drag himself in that direction, trying to ignore the stomach cramps that were beginning to overcome him as he did so.\u00a0 Within a few minutes he had reached it and lay still as he felt the pounding of his head and tried to ease it. \u2018Stupid time to get sick Cartwright,\u2019 he admonished himself. \u2018Dumb, stupid time!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked down at the canteen beside him and began to reach for it, only to drop his hand again.\u00a0 He felt so weak that he couldn\u2019t even move that much.\u00a0 Joe closed his eyes with a sigh and fell asleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben opened the front door with a bang and looked out hopefully as his two sons rode into the front yard.\u00a0 His face showed his disappointment clearly as he realised that they were alone. \u2018Boys!\u2019 he shouted as he strode into the yard to greet them. \u2018You didn\u2019t find him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Adam shortly as he dismounted. \u2018We were hoping \u2026\u2019 he gave his father an apologetic look. \u2018He hasn\u2019t made it back then?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head silently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s all my fault!\u2019 declared Hoss suddenly. \u2018If I hadn\u2019t made that stupid bet with him then he\u2019d be here and not out there being sick with no help!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss you are not blame!\u2019 said Adam. \u2018For one thing we both made that bet with him \u2026 remember?\u00a0 And secondly, we don\u2019t even know if he is sick! He could just as easily be out there laughing at us all and ready to wander back in here any time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam is right,\u2019 said Ben, trying to smile. He patted Hoss on the back reassuringly. \u2018Come on is and get something to eat boys.\u00a0 You must both be exhausted.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018I\u2019m getting a fresh horse and going straight back out there Pa,\u2019 he said in a determined voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You are doing no such thing!\u2019 said Ben in a stern voice. \u2018You\u2019ll do as you\u2019re told and get in that house to eat and then have some sleep.\u00a0 It\u2019ll do no good to have you two sick on top of everything else.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa,\u2019 pleased Hoss. \u2018Joe \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes \u2026 Joe,\u2019 interrupted his father. \u2018Your brother is right.\u00a0 Joe could walk in here at nay moment.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And iffen he don\u2019t?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018If he doesn\u2019t \u2026 then in the morning we\u2019re all going back out there to look for him,\u2019 said his father. \u2018Now inside the both of you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He led the way into the house and as they entered it Adam turned to his father. \u2018Have you heard form Paul while we\u2019ve been away?\u2019 he asked as he took off his hat and coat. \u2018Any news on how the Millers are?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated for a moment and glanced at Hoss before replying. \u2018They\u2019re both very ill,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018Paul is convinced now that it\u2019s typhoid fever.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018How?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Probably the water,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018Bert had just dug that new well you know.\u00a0 Paul has taken some samples of it for testing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well if it\u2019s the water then it\u2019s even more likely that Joe \u2026\u2019\u00a0 Adam stopped as he also glanced at Hoss. \u2018I mean \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss thumped his fist on the table. \u2018Why don\u2019t you just both say it?\u2019 he said. \u2018Joe is out there sick and we all know it!\u00a0 Iffen it was the water then he\u2019ll have drunk it too.\u2019\u00a0 He put his face in his hands. \u2018It\u2019s all my fault,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss I\u2019ll hear no more of that talk!\u2019 said his father sternly. \u2018Now sit down and eat.\u00a0 I\u2019ll get Hop Sing to fill a tub for both of you while you have some supper. We\u2019ll leave at first light and I\u2019ll get Charlie to go up to the North Section and round up some men to meet us out there.\u2019 He hesitated before he left the room. \u2018Don\u2019t worry boys \u2026 if he\u2019s not home in the morning then we\u2019ll find your brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss sat down at the table, both looking at their plates despondently without eating.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We ain\u2019t gonna find him Pa,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018The trail stops here and there ain\u2019t no way that we can pick it up again.\u2019\u00a0 He scanned the area with an anxious expression. \u2018Maybe we should split up and keep looking?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Maybe,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018I think we should wait until the others join us though and then can organise ourselves into groups and fan out over the area.\u2019\u00a0 He pulled out his gun for the fourth time that hour and pointed it up into the air before shooting. \u2018Hopefully Joseph will hear that and reply,\u2019 he said. \u2018I can\u2019t help but hope that he\u2019ll hear it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He hasn\u2019t so far,\u2019 said Adam in a low voice. There was silence as all three Cartwrights worried about the implications of his statement. Suddenly Adam pointed down the slope. \u2018Look!\u2019 he said. \u2018Charlie\u2019s here with the men!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Hoss turned and looked in the direction that Adam was pointing and saw that Charlie was indeed approaching with twenty men behind him. As they drew near, the grizzled foreman gave Ben a determined grin. \u2018Any luck boss?\u2019 he asked. \u2018You found the boy yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018And I\u2019m beginning to get very worried Charlie.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to face the men. \u2018We\u2019ll need to fan out in all directions,\u2019 he shouted. \u2018If you see anything fire three shots into the air.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Boss?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned back to Charlie. \u2018What is it?\u2019 he asked impatiently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I sent Bert over ta Josh Dickinson\u2019s place.\u00a0 He\u2019s got them hunting dogs and I thought they might prove useful to us.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben slapped the man on the back. \u2018Great thought Charlie!\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t know why I didn\u2019t think of that!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya didn\u2019t think of that cause you\u2019re so worried bout that youngster of yours \u2026\u2019 replied Charlie. \u2018You would have eventually.\u00a0 I just saved ya sometime is all.\u2019\u00a0 He pointed down the slope. \u2018Here come Josh now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They all looked in the direction that he was pointing and indeed saw Josh Dickinson riding towards them with a pack of four dogs loping beside him. \u2018Ben!\u2019 he said as he drew level with them. \u2018I heard tell that you could do with these dogs of mine?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure can Josh,\u2019 said Ben gratefully. \u2018Joseph\u2019s out there somewhere \u2026 probably sick and we don\u2019t have much time to get to him.\u00a0 I\u2019m mighty grateful to you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t mention it,\u2019 replied Josh. \u2018Jest get me something that belongs to the boy and we\u2019ll use it fer the scent.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked around. \u2018Boys?\u2019 he said. \u2018Have you got anything of Joseph\u2019s?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked Hoss. \u2018Not that I can think of,\u2019 he said. \u2018Only \u2026 wait!\u2019\u00a0 He opened his saddlebag and pulled out a bandanna. \u2018He used this the other day,\u2019 he said. \u2018Give it a try.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josh took it from him and held it under the dogs\u2019 noses.\u00a0 The hounds all eagerly clustered around him, well aware from past experiences what was expected of them, and began howling one after another.\u00a0 Suddenly one of them took off followed closely by the others, streaking away up the slope until they were lost in the distance. \u2018I reckon we\u2019d better follow em quick smart,\u2019 said Josh as he mounted quickly. \u2018If we want to keep up.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone mounted as quickly as they could and began to ride up the slope.\u00a0 The dogs led them down the other side and across to a small stream where they hesitated for several minutes, running in circles as they tried to pick up Joes\u2019 scent again. \u2018That weasel,\u2019 muttered Hoss. \u2018I knew I done taught him too well!\u00a0 Now he\u2019s even got them dogs confused!\u2019\u00a0 But as the words left his mouth the dogs took off again, howling with great determination as they sped across the stream and up the slope on the other side, the men following closely on their trail.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the dim recesses of his half-conscious mind, Joe heard the sound of a shot in the distance.\u00a0 He half-opened his eyes and tried to focus on his surroundings, but the brightness of the sunlight caused him to close them again quickly.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t remember ever feeling so ill and all he wanted to do was fall asleep again so that he wouldn\u2019t have to think about the pain in his head and his stomach.\u00a0 He felt so hot, but his canteen was long empty now and he knew without a doubt that he just didn\u2019t have the strength to move to search for more water.\u00a0 All he could do was lie there and hope that someone came upon him, but he knew that the chances of that happening were slim.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He thought about how ironic it was that the very reason he was in this predicament was because he had done everything he could not to be found, when now all he wanted was the opposite.\u00a0 What he wouldn\u2019t have given for his Pa of one of his brothers to find him and take him back home again where he could begin to get well.\u00a0 He half opened his eyes again and gave a small smile as he thought about what they would say to him when they did find him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u00a0 Son \u2026 its all right Joe.\u2019\u00a0 Joe\u2019s closed his eyes again and sighed. If only Pa could be here as he was imagining him to be!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe?\u00a0 Can you hear me son?\u2019\u00a0 Joe was sure that he would sound just as worried as he was imagining him to be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Give me that canteen!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes again and stared up at his father\u2019s face in surprise. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he croaked in a hoarse voice. \u2018Is that really you?\u00a0 I thought I was imagining it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No it\u2019s really me son,\u2019 replied Ben as he held the canteen to Joe\u2019s parched lips. \u2018We found you at last.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe clutched at his father\u2019s sleeve. \u2018Pa \u2026 Pa \u2026 I feel awful sick Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled at the young man and wiped the sweat away from his face tenderly. \u2018I know son.\u00a0 Your brothers and I are here now.\u00a0 We\u2019ll help you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked around, the movement causing his head to commence pounding even more and he frowned. \u2018Adam?\u2019 he said. \u2018Hoss?\u2019\u00a0 To his surprise he heard the howling of dogs, which didn\u2019t make a lot of sense to him, so he shut his eyes again and surrendered himself to sleep with a sigh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked down at the unconscious young man in his arms and felt the heat radiating from him as he held into him. \u2018Someone ride for Paul Martin,\u2019 he said. \u2018Tell him to meet us back at the house. Adam \u2026 Hoss \u2026 help me get him onto my horse.\u00a0 I\u2019ll ride with him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Charlie began to shout orders and a couple of the men rode away in the direction of the Miller ranch. Hoss bent down and gathered Joe into his arms before heading towards his father\u2019s horse with him. Ben mounted up quickly and held out his arms as Hoss lifted his unconscious brother up to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly Adam reached out and pulled Joe\u2019s shirt up further where it had come away from his pants. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said. \u2018Look?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked. Spreading around Joe\u2019s stomach was a bright rash, consisting of small rose-coloured spots. He bit his lip anxiously as he stared at it. \u2018Let\u2019s get him home quickly boys,\u2019 he said and turned his horse to face towards home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come on Hoss,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018You heard Pa.\u2019\u00a0 He stared at his brother as he didn\u2019t move. \u2018What\u2019s the matter?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I was jest thinking,\u2019 mused Hoss. \u2018I reckon them dogs is better at tracking than I am.\u00a0 Seems like shortshanks mighta been right when he said that I weren\u2019t no good at it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his hand on the big man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Come on Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018Let\u2019s get home.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin peered at the rash on Joe\u2019s stomach as the young man lay tossing on the bed. \u2018Paul?\u2019 The doctor straightened up and looked at Ben who was standing anxiously behind him. \u2018What do you think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Exactly what I thought it would be,\u2019 replied the doctor. \u2018Typhoid fever \u2026 just like the Millers.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben swallowed as he looked down at his son on the bed.\u00a0 \u2018Lord help him,\u2019 he whispered softly. There was silence in the room for a few minutes. \u2018What do we do now Paul?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin shook his head. \u2018I\u2019m afraid there\u2019s not much we can do at this stage Ben,\u2019 he said. \u2018Keep his temperature down as best we can of course and I\u2019ll give him something for the nausea \u2026 but apart from that \u2026\u2019 he spread his hands wide in a gesture of despair. \u2018I\u2019m afraid there\u2019s not much else that we can do.\u00a0 It\u2019s up to Joe now \u2026.\u2019 He put his hand on Ben\u2019s shoulder. \u2018And God,\u2019 he added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat down heavily on the edge of the bed and stared at the still form of his son. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Joe?\u00a0 Can you hear me son?\u2019 Joe murmured softly and clutched at the bed-sheet at the sound of his father\u2019s voice, but didn\u2019t open his eyes. Ben sat in silence as Paul packed away his instruments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Give him plenty of water to drink if he can drink it,\u2019 the doctor said as he worked. \u2018Mix one of these powders in every two hours and try to keep it down him. I\u2019ll be back from the Millers this afternoon.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up at the man. \u2018How are they?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Any better?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018Bert is a lot worse.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And Becky?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Remember to keep his temperature down,\u2019 replied the doctor evasively. \u2018Use the water from the well \u2026 it\u2019s cooler.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Paul?\u2019 Ben stared at his friend. \u2018How\u2019s Becky?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul was silent for a moment before replying. \u2018She died early this morning,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes instantly flitted straight back to his son lying on the bed. \u2018Dear God!\u2019 he said. He put his hands up to his face and was silent for a moment, not taking his eyes off his son as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul put his hand on Ben\u2019s shoulder and patted it. \u2018I\u2019ll be back as soon as I can,\u2019 he said softly. Ben never moved from the bed or took his eyes from his son\u2019s face as the doctor left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019\u00a0 Adam looked at his father\u2019s weary face as he entered the room. \u2018You need to get some rest.\u00a0 I\u2019ll sit here for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head as he wiped Joe\u2019s face with the wet cloth he was holding. \u2018No,\u2019 he said without looking up. \u2018I\u2019m staying.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa \u2026\u2019\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice trailed away as he looked at his brother\u2019s feverish face on the pillow. He sat down on the edge of the bed and continued to stare at Joe. \u2018He\u2019s no better?\u2019 he asked after a few moments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No.\u2019 Ben wet the cloth again and wrung it out before applying it on his son\u2019s face and neck again. \u2018I think the fever is worse. Paul not back yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No. I suppose he\u2019s still with Bert Miller,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018You want me to do that for a while?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe began to murmur in his sleep and toss his head around as Ben replied. \u2018No thank you Adam.\u00a0 I\u2019ll do it.\u2019\u00a0 He stroked Joe\u2019s hair off his fevered forehead and murmured soothing noises to him. \u2018It\u2019s all right Joe,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Pa\u2019s here son.\u00a0 Just take it easy.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018Isn\u2019t there anything else we can so?\u2019 he asked fretfully. \u2018Surely there\u2019s something?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed wearily. \u2018I wish there was Adam,\u2019 he said as he looked down at his youngest son on the bed. \u2018I just wish to God that there were.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood up and began to pace around the room stopping by the window and looking down into the front yard.\u00a0 Hoss was standing next to the corral and his brother could tell from the slump of his shoulders that the big man was in despair. \u2018Hoss is mighty upset about all this,\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked across at him. \u2018I suppose he is,\u2019 he said. \u2018He has to realise that it isn\u2019t his fault though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Try telling him that,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018He thinks that if he hadn\u2019t bet Joe in the first place then he\u2019d be all right now.\u2019\u00a0 He hesitated as he looked over his shoulder at the feverish young man on the bed. \u2018Instead of like this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That just doesn\u2019t make sense,\u2019 said Ben firmly as he wet the cloth again. \u2018From what you\u2019ve told me, Joseph was just as insistent on that bet as Hoss was.\u00a0 Besides, even if he\u2019d been at home when he took sick there\u2019s no telling what the outcome would have been even so.\u00a0 After all, look at \u2026\u2019\u00a0 his voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Look at Becky?\u2019 Adam finished for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 replied Ben as he stared down at Joe\u2019s face. \u2018Adam \u2026 I can\u2019t believe that the same thing could happen to your brother.\u2019\u00a0 His voice caught on a sob and he took a deep breath to control it again. \u2018I just can\u2019t believe that we could lose him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then don\u2019t Pa,\u2019 said Adam firmly. \u2018Joe\u2019s a strong young kid.\u00a0 He\u2019ll beat it … I just know that he will.\u2019\u00a0 He looked out of the window again. \u2018Paul\u2019s here!\u2019 he said suddenly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thank God,\u2019 said Ben fervently. \u2018I hope that\u2019s a sign that everything is better at Bert Miller\u2019s now.\u2019\u00a0 Joe began to toss his head back and forth again and to moan quietly. \u2018Shh,\u2019 said Ben soothingly. \u2018Shh son \u2026 it\u2019s all right.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss entered the room, followed by Paul Martin who immediately put down his bag and pulled out a stethoscope. He nodded to Ben before bending down to listen to Joe\u2019s chest and there was silence in the room as he did so. \u2018Not too bad,\u2019 he said as he straightened up. \u2018Have you managed to get any fluids into him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not much,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018He keeps bringing most of them up again. \u2018How\u2019s Bert?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul looked Ben directly in the eye before replying. \u2018He didn\u2019t make it,\u2019 he said shortly. \u2018He died a couple of hours ago Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked stricken. \u2018No,\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul put his hand on his friend\u2019s shoulder. \u2018It doesn\u2019t mean that the same thing is going to happen to Joe,\u2019 he said gently. \u2018You mustn\u2019t think like that Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019 Hoss interrupted. \u2018Look at him Doc \u2026. He can\u2019t go on like this.\u2019\u00a0 He covered his face. \u2018He\u2019s gonna die and it\u2019s all my fault!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss, I\u2019ll have none of that talk!\u2019 Ben admonished his son. \u2018Your brother is not going to die \u2026 and if I hear one more word about you being responsible for his illness \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head tossed on the pillow again and began to murmur. \u2018It\u2019s all right Joseph,\u2019 said Ben soothingly. \u2018Just sleep son.\u00a0 Pa\u2019s here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes and looked up at his father. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Am I home?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son.\u00a0 We brought you back home,\u2019 replied Ben gently. \u2018Just relax and rest now.\u00a0 You need your strength to get better.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How did I get here?\u2019\u00a0 Joe clutched at his father\u2019s sleeve.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We brought you here son,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Now just close your eyes and get some sleep.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hot,\u2019 murmured Joe as he did as his father bid him. \u2018Hot \u2026 it\u2019s too hot Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know son,\u2019 said Ben gently as he began to sponge Joe\u2019s face again. \u2018Just close your eyes now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll stay the night through Ben,\u2019 said Paul softly. \u2018There\u2019s no reason to leave again now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded, his eyes not leaving Joe\u2019s face for an instant. Behind him Adam and Hoss\u2019 faces showed their deep concern as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes jerked open to see Joe staring up at him. He leant forward in the chair and reached out to feel the young man\u2019s forehead instinctively. \u2018I\u2019m here son,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m \u2026. thirsty.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled as he put a glass of water to Joe\u2019s lips and watched as his son drank greedily. \u2018That better?\u2019 he asked as he replaced the glass on the dresser.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said fretfully. \u2018I\u2019m so hot Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know.\u00a0 The water will help though.\u2019\u00a0 Ben wet the cloth for the hundredth time that night and wiped it over Joe\u2019s fevered face as he thought about the fact that this was the first time that Joe had drunk voluntarily since they\u2019d brought him home.\u00a0 He just knew that it was a good sign.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I got sick while I was out there,\u2019 Joe said when his father had finished. \u2018I reckon I musta eaten something bad. Are Adam and Hoss sick too?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No Joe, they\u2019re not sick.\u00a0 You didn\u2019t eat something bad out there.\u00a0 It was the water from the Miller\u2019s new well when you went to visit a few days ago.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned, trying to make sense of his father\u2019s words. \u2018The well?\u2019 he said. \u2018Bert\u2019s new well?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u00a0 Don\u2019t worry about it now Joseph.\u00a0 Just get some sleep.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018Bert \u2026\u2019 he said. \u2018And \u2026 Becky \u2026 are they all right?\u00a0 Did they get sick too?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Get some sleep now son,\u2019 said Ben soothingly. \u2018Just lie still.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe clutched at his father\u2019s sleeve. \u2018I have to know Pa,\u2019 he said imploringly. \u2018Are they all right?\u00a0 Did they get sick too?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son, they got sick too,\u2019 said Ben reluctantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Are they all right?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. \u2018No son, they\u2019re not.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned. \u2018Are they as sick as me?\u00a0 What is wrong with us Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated again. \u2018Typhoid Fever,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018That\u2019s bad, ain\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son, it\u2019s bad.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stared at his father, trying to read his face. \u2018What about Becky and Bert?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Please tell me how bad they are Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe \u2026 I \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Please!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed his hand on his son\u2019s head and looked at him sadly. \u2018They died Joseph,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face crumpled. \u2018Becky \u2026.\u2019 he whispered. He began to cry softly. \u2018Becky \u2026 Bert \u2026. They didn\u2019t deserve to die Pa,\u2019 he whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben leant down and gathered his son into his arms, feeling the fierce heat of his body even through his nightshirt. \u2018No son, they didn\u2019t,\u2019 he agreed.\u00a0 He clutched the sobbing young man to his chest, allowing him to give full vent to his emotions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You want some more?\u2019 Ben asked as he held the glass out to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018No thanks Pa,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 He stared at Paul Martin who was unpacking his bag. \u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul ignored the remark and sat down on the edge of the bed before pulling up the young man\u2019s nightshirt and staring at his stomach. \u2018The rash has disappeared,\u2019 he said to Ben. \u2018That\u2019s a good sign.\u2019\u00a0 He put a hand on Joe\u2019s forehead. \u2018Fever\u2019s broken.\u00a0 I think this young man is showing some signs of recovery.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben let out the breath he\u2019d been holding. \u2018I thought so,\u2019 he said. \u2018I was just afraid to believe it too soon.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 repeated Joe in a weary voice. \u2018I told you that before. I\u2019m \u2026.\u2019 His voice drifted off as his eyelids fluttered and in spite of himself he drifted off to sleep again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted him on the head. \u2018Of course you are son,\u2019 he said tenderly. \u2018Paul?\u2019\u00a0 He looked up at the doctor again. \u2018You\u2019re sure?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018As sure as I can be,\u2019 replied the doctor. \u2018He\u2019s got a long road ahead of him yet, but given time I think he\u2019ll be all right.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m \u2026.\u2019 Joe\u2019s eyelids fluttered open for a moment and then closed again. \u2018I\u2019m \u2026 fine,\u2019 he said softly. Ben shook his head and gave a short chuckle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hop Sing sent this up to ya,\u2019 said Hoss as he entered the room carrying a tray. \u2018Pa said that ya can\u2019t leave any of it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wrinkled up his nose as the tray was put on his lap. \u2018Soup!\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t I get anything else?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Doc Martin says ya gotta eat light,\u2019 explained Hoss as he sat down on the edge of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Starve more likely,\u2019 grumbled Joe as he picked up his spoon and took a mouthful. \u2018I reckon I could do with a steak.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then ya must be getting better,\u2019 said Hoss.\u00a0 \u2018Um \u2026 Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah?\u2019\u00a0 Joe took another mouthful and then lay back on his pillow wearily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sorry.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry about what?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged. \u2018Oh \u2026 you know \u2026 lotsa things I reckon. \u00a0Bout Becky and Bert and all \u2026. And bout you being sick cause of me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned. \u2018What do ya mean cause of you? You didn\u2019t make me sick.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No.\u00a0 But I reckon if we didn\u2019t make that stupid bet then you\u2019d be here at home when ya did come down with the fever and ya wouldn\u2019t have been so bad.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We both made the bet remember?\u2019\u00a0 Joe replied. \u2018It wasn\u2019t your fault Hoss.\u2019\u00a0 He picked up his spoon and took another spoonful of soup. \u2018I reckon you\u2019re a better tracker than I thought anyways brother.\u00a0 Seems you did find me after all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss shrugged again. \u2018Well no I didn\u2019t,\u2019 he said. \u2018Didn\u2019t Pa tell ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tell me what?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It was Josh Dickinson\u2019s hounds,\u2019 explained Hoss. \u2018They followed ya scent and found ya.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe thought for a moment. \u2018I thought I heard a dog howling,\u2019 he said. There was silence for a moment. \u2018Hey Hoss \u2026 I reckon that I won the bet then huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss frowned. \u2018No ya didn\u2019t,\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018Ya didn\u2019t make it home yaself nohow.\u00a0 Jest cause I didn\u2019t find ya don\u2019t mean that ya won.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave him a cheeky look. \u2018Well all I know is that you didn\u2019t win either brother.\u00a0 I reckon them dogs are better trackers than you.\u00a0 Just goes to show that I was right in the first place. I reckon that darn old cat is mighty safe round here while you\u2019re the one in charge of tracking.\u2019 He smirked. \u2018Sides,\u2019 he said. \u2018I reckon it don\u2019t much matter if I won the bet or not.\u00a0 You and Adam have ended up doing my chores for now anyway. Anyway you look at it brother I reckon I\u2019ve won.\u2019 Hoss gave his little brother a disgruntled look, but said nothing while Joe grinned at him and continued to eat his soup.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I still reckon I woulda made it home though,\u2019 said Joe after a few moments. \u2018Face it brother \u2026. You just aren\u2019t good enough to track me down.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No you listen here Joe,\u2019 said Hoss angrily as he leant forward towards his brother. \u2018Sick or not I\u2019m gonna have my say!\u00a0 I could so have tracked ya down and you darn well know it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t know nothing of the kind,\u2019 said Joe complacently.\u00a0 He gave his brother a sideway smile. \u2018You reckon you want another try at proving it though?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018There\u2019ll be no more of that nonsense!\u2019 said their father as he entered the room. \u2018I\u2019ve had just about enough of this sort of thing from both of you.\u2019\u00a0 He gave Joe a stern look. \u2018I want that soup finished young man.\u00a0 Now get to it and stop chattering with your brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Yes Pa,\u2019 replied Joe meekly as his father turned to leave the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And you can leave him to it Hoss,\u2019 said Ben over his shoulder. \u2018Come on.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood up, still glaring at his younger brother. \u2018You\u2019re on,\u2019 he whispered as he left the room behind his father. Joe grinned as he lay back on the pillow and took another spoonful of soup.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss straightened up and grinned at Adam. \u2018He ain\u2019t getting away this time!\u2019 he said happily. \u2018That\u2019s his tracks all right!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam returned the grin. \u2018Right on brother,\u2019 he said. \u2018I have no intention of that younger brother of us winning this bet. Let\u2019s get him!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Darned right!\u2019 agreed Hoss. \u2018He\u2019s been too plumb uppity since he got better.\u00a0 We\u2019ll take him down a peg or two.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to Adam as they headed up the short incline in front of them. \u2018Ya know older brother, I was sure surprised what Pa said we could do this again. He seemed so set against it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well he didn\u2019t actually \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 Adam stopped as the sound of a rifle shot rang through the air. He gave Hoss a startled look and began to run up the hill in front of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe!\u2019 said Hoss before running after his older brother.\u00a0 The two ran in the direction of the shot, their hearts thumping hard with the exertion and the awful anticipation of what they might find. As they reached a small clearing they spied their brother crouched on the ground and ran towards him quickly. \u2018Joe!\u2019 said Hoss again and gathered his younger brother in his strong arms. \u2018Tell me that you\u2019re all right boy!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe struggled to free himself from his brother\u2019s strong grip. \u2018Of course I\u2019m all right!\u2019 he said in a frustrated tone. \u2018I just got me that cat we\u2019ve been trailing for so long is all.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated the dead animal on the ground in front of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So I see,\u2019 said Adam dryly. \u2018Nice shot brother.\u00a0 Shame it had to cost you the bet though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face contorted. \u2018What do you mean?\u2019 he said indignantly. \u2018I had to shoot it didn\u2019t I?\u00a0 It was obvious that if I\u2019d left it to you two we\u2019d be losing cattle for ever.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u2018Still \u2026 we caught you before you made it home,\u2019 he said easily. \u2018That was the bet wasn\u2019t it?\u00a0 It doesn\u2019t much matter what the circumstances.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It darn too does!\u2019 exploded Joe. \u2018You know as well as I do Adam that if you hadn\u2019t heard my shot that you\u2019d still be trailing me \u2026 and not getting very far too I might add. I woulda made it home before you with no problems.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave him a superior look. \u2018Don\u2019t be too sure about that,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hoss here was right on your trail little brother.\u00a0 We would have found you soon anyway.\u00a0 Isn\u2019t that right Hoss?\u2019 Hoss looked from one brother to the other and hesitated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss?\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Tell him we were about to find him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at Hoss indignantly. \u2018Tell him I\u2019m right and the bet should be off now,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss scratched his head. \u2018Well \u2026.\u2019 he said.\u00a0 Adam and Joe both waited, both standing with their hands on their hips and giving Hoss angry looks. \u2018Well \u2026\u2019 he said again and then sighed. \u2018I reckon Joe might be right,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe let out a whoop. \u2018Yes!\u2019 he said. \u2018I told you so older brother!\u2019\u00a0 He poked his tongue out at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What on earth are you talking about Hoss?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018You know as well as I do that we were right behind him!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well to tell ya the truth,\u2019 admitted Hoss. \u2018Them tracks were going over in that direction.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated a spot over to their left. \u2018I reckon it mighta been one of Joe\u2019s false trails again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nonsense!\u2019 spat Adam. \u2018We would have found him within minutes \u2026 shot or no shot!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Face it older brother,\u2019 said Joe gleefully as he rubbed his hands together. \u2018You may as well get used to the fact that you\u2019ve been beaten.\u2019\u00a0 He strutted around in a cocky fashion. \u2018Nice piece of work I\u2019ve done today if I do say so myself,\u2019 he said proudly. \u2018I won the bet and got me that cat!\u2019 He grinned at them both as he bent down to pick the dead animal up. \u2018I reckon I\u2019ll just take this home to show Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019ll make a nice skin.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to walk down the hill with the animal over his shoulder. \u2018It\u2019ll be nice to enjoy it with all the free time I\u2019m gonna have now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave Hoss a disgusted look as they turned to follow their younger brother. \u2018Was that really true?\u2019 he said. \u2018About you losing the trail and all? Or are you just trying to keep the peace and have this whole bet thing over with?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged and said nothing.\u00a0 In front of them they could hear the high-pitched cackling noise of their younger brother as he gleefully laughed his way down the slope.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

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

Summary: \u00a0A bet between the Cartwright brothers goes horribly wrong and puts one of their lives at risk<\/p>\n

Rated: K (10,990 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":3486,"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":[2,1009,23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1956","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actionadventure","category-brothers","category-drama","wpcat-2-id","wpcat-1009-id","wpcat-23-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\/04\/Bad-Day1.png?fit=628%2C478&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1956","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=1956"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1956\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3486"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1956"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1956"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1956"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}