{"id":1964,"date":"2009-09-05T10:38:00","date_gmt":"2009-09-05T14:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1964"},"modified":"2026-03-07T18:50:28","modified_gmt":"2026-03-07T23:50:28","slug":"the-hoads","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1964","title":{"rendered":"The Hoads (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>A Hillbilly family seeks revenge after Joe kills two of their members. A WHN story for ‘The Spitfire’<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> T (19,990 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Joe opened his eyes and stretched as he tried to clear the sleep from his head. He yawned widely and turned his head to look at the window and then smiled.\u00a0 Judging from the sunlight that was already streaming through it, it promised to be another beautiful day.\u00a0 He scratched his head as he sat up in bed and stretched again, frowning as he thought back on the events of yesterday.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had been so scared when he\u2019d ridden into the Hoads\u2019 camp.\u00a0 Afterwards Pa had called it reckless and Adam had said that it had been downright stupid, but Joe knew that it was just something that he had had to do. After all, it had been his fault that those two men had died and he had felt a great responsibility to make things right again by speaking to the family about it. He made a face as he realised that Pa and Adam were probably right.\u00a0 Even though things had worked out in the end, another man was dead because of his actions and he couldn\u2019t help but regret his impulsiveness once again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pa always said that he didn\u2019t think things through and Joe knew that he was right.\u00a0 He honestly didn\u2019t mean to be like that \u2026 he just found himself doing and saying things before he could stop himself and someone always had to pay the price for it.\u00a0 He smiled ruefully as he thought back over all the times that the person had been himself and he sure was glad that he was too old to receive a tanning from Pa any more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There had been a moment yesterday when he had thought he was going to get one anyway \u2026 no matter what his age.\u00a0 Pa had sure been furious before Grandma Hoad had arrived at their house.\u00a0 They had all thought that she had come for revenge and you could have knocked Joe down with a feather when she had made it clear that she hadn\u2019t. Not that he would have blamed her if she had. Two of her sons were dead and whichever way he looked at it Joe himself was responsible for the shootings.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wondered why she had decided to change her course of action and forgive him in the way that she had.\u00a0 She had said that she wasn\u2019t tired of all the killings and everyone had breathed a sigh of relief at that. Yet there was a part of him that didn\u2019t quite believe what she had said. To go from such hatred to forgiveness in such a short space of time didn\u2019t really add up in his mind and he knew that the others must be thinking the same thing. Still \u2026. She seemed genuine enough and he supposed that was mattered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Hoads had spent last evening at the Cartwright ranch and no one could have doubted Grandma Hoad\u2019s genuineness by observing her reaction to everything. Joe thought that she had even \u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Are you going to sit there all morning or are you going to get dressed and join us downstairs for breakfast?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned sharply at the sound of his father\u2019s voice. \u2018Morning Pa,\u2019 he said with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked confused. \u2018Well what?\u2019 he said after a moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Are you going to come downstairs for breakfast?\u2019\u00a0 answered his father with an amused expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe reached for his pants and began to pull them on. \u2018Sure,\u2019 he said. As he struggled to pull them up he looked over at his father again. \u2018Hey Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 asked Ben as he leaned against the doorframe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The Hoads sure seemed ta like last night don\u2019t ya think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded slowly. \u2018Yes they did,\u2019 he replied. \u2018I don\u2019t suppose they\u2019ve had the opportunity to see some of the modern conveniences that we have here at The Ponderosa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe giggled as he pulled off his nightshirt. \u2018You mean like the kitchen,\u2019 he said. \u2018I thought that Hop Sing was gonna have a fit when Grandma Hoad talked bout cooking up some turnip greens in there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben waggled his finger at his youngest son. \u2018Well you shouldn\u2019t have given her the idea,\u2019 he said. \u2018The poor woman was very embarrassed when she realised that Hop Sing was so protective of his kitchen.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe giggled again. \u2018And I thought she\u2019d swipe me one when I showed her the contraption that Hoss used when we gave Willow her bath,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018You could have told the poor woman that it was Mrs Shaunessy who actually supervised it,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t blame Grandma Hoad for being angry with you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stopped laughing and sat down to pull on his boots. \u2018Yeah I spose,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018But it was only a joke.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It wasn\u2019t that funny,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Particularly as the woman was trying to mend bridges with us.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Joe thoughtfully. \u2018I\u2019ve been thinking bout that Pa. Why do ya reckon she was?\u00a0 I mean \u2026 I killed two of her sons and all and yet she was willing ta forget it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018She wasn\u2019t forgetting it Joe,\u2019 he explained. \u2018The same as I could never forget it if one of you boys were taken from me.\u00a0 The thing is though that she was willing to look beyond it and realise that the whole thing needed to be brought to an end.\u00a0 To be honest I don\u2019t think she has forgiven you \u2026 but for the sake of both our families she was willing to say enough is enough.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded \u2018Like you were saying,\u2019 he said. \u2018The killing would have just gone on and on otherwise wouldn\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018And that\u2019s something none of us want \u2026 Grandma Hoad included.\u00a0 It takes a lot of courage to do what she did last night son.\u00a0 I hope you appreciate that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded again. \u2018I do,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ve been thinking Pa.\u00a0 Maybe I\u2019ll ride on out there today and see if there\u2019s anything I can do for them.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018You\u2019ll stay away from the Hoads,\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018The last thing they need are outsiders today. They need to attend to the \u2026 burial \u2026 and I think they\u2019d rather be alone at a time like this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I guess so,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018It\u2019s just that \u2026 well I reckon they could do with some help Pa. After all with two of em gone they\u2019re going to need \u2026 well, they must need help in some way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Give them time son,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018When they\u2019re ready we\u2019ll be here for them.\u00a0 It\u2019s the least we can do after everything that\u2019s happened.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Do you think Grandma Hoad will take you up on the offer of that piece of land you said she could have?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not sure.\u00a0 The Hoads are travelling people and they might find it hard to settle down.\u00a0 We\u2019ll leave it up to them to decide and I guess they\u2019ll need time to do that.\u00a0 In the meantime I\u2019ve let them know that they\u2019re quite welcome to stay down near the lake where they\u2019re camped.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I still think I should go down there and \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You will stay away from them Joseph and that is an order!\u2019 said his father firmly. \u2018Understood young man?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u2018Understood,\u2019 he said. He gave his father a cheeky grin. \u2018Well aren\u2019t you coming for breakfast Pa?\u00a0 You know that Hop Sing hates to be kept waiting.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben swatted the youngster\u2019s behind as he went past him and gave a short laugh as he followed him down the hallway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad stood with her head bent with Willow beside her.\u00a0 \u2018I reckon we need ta say a few words,\u2019 she said as she stared into the hole in front of her. \u2018Dodie was a good son Lord,\u2019 she said as she crossed her hands. \u2018He never meant no harm ta anyone and he didn\u2019t deserve ta die. Lord knows he was a might foolish sometimes like he was yesterday when he drew on that young Cartwright feller, but he didn\u2019t mean nothing by it Lord.\u2019\u00a0 She hesitated for a moment as she thought. \u2018Take him inta ya care Lord. Amen.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Amen,\u2019 said her granddaughter Willow beside her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fill in the hole now Bud,\u2019 directed the woman as she turned away. \u2018Willow, I want ya ta come with me.\u2019\u00a0 She led the girl over towards their wagon and motioned for her to sit down beside her. \u2018We need ta talk,\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow looked at her grandmother. \u2018What about?\u2019 she asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You and that Cartwright feller,\u2019 said Grandma Hoad. \u2018The young pretty one that shot my boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Little Joe,\u2019 said Willow. \u2018What about him Grandma?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma\u2019s eyes narrowed. \u2018Last night he was talking bout you in that house when you was living there,\u2019 she said. \u2018What exactly went on between you two?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow looked embarrassed. \u2018Nothing Grandma!\u2019 she declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad leant forward and looked deeply into her granddaughter\u2019s eyes. \u2018Don\u2019t you lie ta me,\u2019 she said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t lying Grandma!\u2019 declared Willow. \u2018Little Joe and me is just friends.\u00a0 It\u2019s Bud I love. Ain\u2019t we done told you that we want ta get married?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad nodded thoughtfully. \u2018Yes,\u2019 she said. \u2018So ya did.\u2019\u00a0 She stared at Willow for a few moments and the girl\u2019s eyes never faltered. \u2018I believe ya,\u2019 she said finally. \u2018I just hadta be sure that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Grandma?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u2018When can Bud and me get married?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not yet,\u2019 said Grandma Hoad thoughtfully. \u2018Ain\u2019t proper ta celebrate a wedding so close ta all this death in the family. Sides … we need ta decide where we\u2019re gonna live first.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow looked confused. \u2018But \u2026\u2019 she began. \u2018But didn\u2019t ya tell Mr Cartwright that we\u2019d be settling on that piece of land he offered us?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said I\u2019d think about it,\u2019 replied Grandma. \u2018I ain\u2019t sure yet.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the use of land ta us iffen we ain\u2019t got any men ta work it?\u2019 said Grandma.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We got Bud and the others,\u2019 replied Willow indignantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma snorted. \u2018It\u2019s not enough,\u2019 she said. \u2018Without my boys we just couldn\u2019t make a go of it nohow.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then what we gonna do Grandma?\u2019 asked Willow. \u2018How are we gonna survive?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad stood up and began to pace up and down. \u2018I been thinking on it,\u2019 she said after a moment. \u2018Reckon we\u2019s gonna need help ta decide. I\u2019m thinking I might send a letter to ya great-uncle Clem and see if he\u2019ll come and help us.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Where he be now Grandma?\u2019 asked Willow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Over Colorado way last I heard,\u2019 replied her grandmother. She nodded to herself. \u2018Clem\u2019ll know what ta do.\u00a0 He always did before.\u2019 She looked over at Bud who was putting the finishing touches on the grave. \u2018Bud can take a letter inta that town tomorra and get it posted,\u2019 she said. \u2018Until we get a reply we\u2019ll camp here on this Ponderosa land of the Cartwrights.\u00a0 I reckon it\u2019s the least they can let us do considering.\u2019\u00a0 She looked over at the lake. \u2018Sure is mighty fine land,\u2019 she mused and then gave a slight nod. \u2018We\u2019ll see,\u2019 she said in a soft voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Penny for your thoughts,\u2019 said Adam as he held a coffee cup out to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up, surprised. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018Oh thank you son.\u2019\u00a0 He took the cup as his eyes drifted back to the barn where Hoss and Little Joe were doing their chores. \u2018You\u2019re not supposed to be out of bed this soon.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 said Adam as he sat down gingerly next to his father and stretched his wounded leg out straight in front of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave him a sideways glance. \u2018Well be careful,\u2019 he warned. \u2018A bullet wound isn\u2019t to be taken lightly.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his father a smile. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s not the first time I\u2019ve been shot you know Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben acknowledged his son\u2019s words with a half smile.\u00a0 \u2018I was just thinking about Little Joe,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s he done now?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well if he hasn\u2019t done anything wrong and he obviously hasn\u2019t hurt himself, then what\u2019s the problem?\u2019 said Adam with a short laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave his eldest son a half-smile. \u2018I suppose I\u2019m just worried about the way he\u2019s handling this business about the Hoads,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam lifted an eyebrow as he looked over at his brothers. \u2018He seems to be okay about it,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded slightly. \u2018Maybe,\u2019 he said. \u2018I just know that it\u2019s a hard thing when you\u2019re Little Joe\u2019s age to know that you\u2019ve been responsible for someone\u2019s death.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s a hard thing at any age,\u2019 mused Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes, that\u2019s true,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018Knowing Joseph as I do though, I\u2019m sure that he\u2019s not being completely honest about being at peace about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The Hoads seemed okay though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I didn\u2019t mean them.\u00a0 I meant your brother being at peace with himself.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh I see. \u00a0Well .. you know what Joe\u2019s like Pa.\u00a0 He\u2019ll come through this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018I hope so,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Have you thought about going over to see the Hoads yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No.\u00a0 I told Joseph to stay away from them.\u00a0 I think they\u2019ve needed some time to themselves.\u2019\u00a0 Ben frowned. \u2018But it\u2019s been over a week now.\u00a0 I really thought they\u2019d have been in touch with us by now.\u2019\u00a0 He thought for a moment. \u2018I think I might go over there tomorrow and check on them.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You want me to go with you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019re not ready to sit on a horse yet. Besides, I can handle it son. I\u2019m going to ask Hoss to keep Joe busy tomorrow.\u00a0 The last thing I want is for him to go bounding over there until I\u2019m sure everything is all right.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You still think the old woman is angry?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018I\u2019m not sure.\u00a0 She seemed all right the night she came into the house \u2026 but .. well if it was me who\u2019d just lost two sons I know I\u2019d still be feeling resentment towards the family who were responsible for it.\u00a0 I just think it\u2019s best if Joe stays away from them for a while that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u2018Hoss can take him out to the South Pasture for the day,\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t worry Pa.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure everything is over now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled at his son. \u2018I\u2019m sure you\u2019re right Adam,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked both right and left as he rode into the camp.\u00a0 There was a small fire in the middle of the clearing and a pot was hung over it.\u00a0 The wagon had been placed near the shelter of the trees and the Hoads\u2019 horses were tethered near it. There seemed to be no one around and so he dismounted and called out to no one in particular. \u2018Anyone here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned sharply as a noise behind him startled him and he smiled to see that it was Grandma Hoad. \u2018Hello,\u2019 he said politely. \u2018I came to see if everything was all right with you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We\u2019s fine,\u2019 said the woman with a slight nod of her head. \u2018Willow and the boys are down by the lake catching a mess of fish fer supper.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018You need anything?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned. \u2018Anything we need we can git,\u2019 she said gruffly. \u2018We don\u2019t need no charity from no one.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wasn\u2019t offering charity,\u2019 replied Ben carefully. \u2018I was just trying to be a good neighbour.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We ain\u2019t yer neighbours,\u2019 said Grandma Hoad. \u2018Leastways not yet.\u00a0 We ain\u2019t decided iffen we\u2019s staying or not yet.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took off his hat and scratched his head. \u2018I see,\u2019 he said. \u2018Well the offer of the land is still there if you want it.\u00a0 It\u2019s the least we can do considering everything that\u2019s happened.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon you\u2019re right about that,\u2019 said Grandma Hoad. \u2018We\u2019ll decide when Clem gits here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Clem?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My brother-in-law,\u2019 explained Grandma Hoad. \u2018He\u2019s acoming ta join up with us in a few days.\u00a0 Reckon he\u2019ll know what ta do \u2026 whether we should move on or stay.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I see,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Well tell him when he gets here that he\u2019s more than welcome to stay if he wants to as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad nodded. \u2018I will,\u2019 she said. They stood looking at each other for a minute before Ben cleared his throat self-consciously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019d better be going then,\u2019 he said. \u2018Lots of work to do.\u2019\u00a0 He mounted up on his horse. \u2018Remember \u2026 if there\u2019s anything we can do you need only ask,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll remember,\u2019 said Grandma Hoad as she watched him ride away. \u2018I\u2019ll remember all right.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Grandma?\u00a0 Who was that?\u2019 \u00a0Willow came and stood beside her grandmother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That Cartwright feller,\u2019 replied the woman. \u2018He come ta offer us some charity.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow sighed. \u2018He ain\u2019t giving charity Grandma,\u2019 she said. \u2018He\u2019s jest being neighbourly like Little Joe and the rest of em was ta me.\u00a0 I told you how they gave me all them fancy clothes and suchlike didn\u2019t I?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You told me,\u2019 replied Grandma Hoad. \u2018But we don\u2019t need any of that stuff. Them Cartwrights can jest stay away from us now.\u00a0 They\u2019ve caused enough problems.\u00a0 Specially that pretty little feller \u2026. that Little Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Little Joe didn\u2019t mean ta shoot my Pa and Dodie Grandma,\u2019 protested Willow. \u2018You said so yourself.\u00a0 Ya said that ya couldn\u2019t hold no anger agin him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 replied Grandma Hoad and then sighed. \u2018I\u2019m trying girl \u2026 truly I am. It just seems that they got all and we got nothing.\u00a0 It ain\u2019t right.\u00a0 Now that my boys is dead we ain\u2019t got nothing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You still got me and Bud and the others.\u2019 Said Willow. \u2018We\u2019re still here Grandma.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad nodded her head. \u2018Yes,\u2019 she admitted. \u2018I still got you. Clem should be here in a couple of days and we\u2019ll see what he\u2019s got ta say bout it all.\u00a0 Come on girl, let\u2019s get them fish cooked now or we\u2019ll get no supper.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Clem!\u2019 Grandma Hoad stepped forward to greet her brother-in-law as he dismounted from his horse. \u2018Ya made a good pace ta get here so quick!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem Hoad looked around the camp before replying. \u2018When we got the news bout Dodie and Jeb we came quick as we could,\u2019 he said. \u2018You member my boys don\u2019t ya Aggie?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad looked at the three large men standing behind her brother. \u2018Sure do,\u2019 she said. Seems like they grown a mite since I saw em last though.\u2019\u00a0 She motioned behind her. \u2018This here\u2019s Willow my granddaughter.\u00a0 And over there\u2019s Bud.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem tipped his hat to the others. \u2018So it\u2019s true then,\u2019 he said. \u2018Where\u2019d ya bury em Aggie?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad motioned with her finger towards the lake. \u2018Over there,\u2019 she said. \u2018We\u2019ve sure had a lota grief since we saw ya last Clem.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem sat down next to the fireplace and Grandma Hoad sat next to him. \u2018So where\u2019s the scum that did this?\u2019 he asked in a low voice. \u2018Where\u2019d ya bury them what\u2019s responsible?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We didn\u2019t bury no one,\u2019 interrupted Willow. \u2018We made our peace with them what done it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem gave the girl a piercing look that made her instantly take a step backwards. \u2018I was talking to ya grandma girl!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018You keep outta this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad waved Willow away. \u2018The girl\u2019s speakin true Clem,\u2019 she said. \u2018We done with killing round here.\u00a0 Way I figure it there\u2019s been too much already.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem\u2019s eyes narrowed. \u2018Ya mean ta tell me that them what did this is still alive?\u2019 he said. \u2018How come ya gone soft Aggie?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad looked confused for a second and then her eyes narrowed. \u2018I ain\u2019t gone soft,\u2019 she declared. \u2018It\u2019s just that losing two sons is enough fer anyone ta cope with Clem.\u00a0 I can\u2019t stand any more killing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem stroked his chin. \u2018I see,\u2019 he said. \u2018Still and all .. them what\u2019s responsible should oughta pay fer what they\u2019s done. Tell me who they is and I\u2019ll see to it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The name\u2019s Cartwright,\u2019 said Grandma Hoad. \u2018Big landowners round here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018They offered us some land,\u2019 said Willow in spite of herself. \u2018We got the chance ta settle down here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem glared at her again. \u2018You shut up!\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019ll be no settling down on any land given by murderers!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad touched her brother-in-law on the arm. \u2018That\u2019s what we need ta talk bout,\u2019 she said. \u2018Seems ta me that this land is mighty fine Clem. We could have a fine life here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem brushed her hand off. \u2018I can\u2019t believe I\u2019m hearing ya say this Aggie,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019d take land from murdering scum like them Cartwrights?\u2019\u00a0 Grandma Hoad said nothing as he continued. \u2018What bout California?\u2019 he said. \u2018I thought you was bound ta get there?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad nodded. \u2018True,\u2019 she admitted. \u2018But that was before everything changed. I can\u2019t do it Clem,\u2019 she said. \u2018Not without Dodie and Jeb. It just ain\u2019t possible.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem thought for a minute. \u2018I\u2019m making fer Mexico meself,\u2019 he said. \u2018But maybe we can help ya out Aggie.\u00a0 How bout I lend you one of my boys fer the trip and once you\u2019re settled they can make their way back ta me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad nodded. \u2018That\u2019d sure help Clem,\u2019 she said. \u2018But won\u2019t ya miss his help?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem\u2019s eyes narrowed. \u2018Nah!\u2019 he said as he spat into the fire. I reckon we\u2019ll make out jest fine. Let\u2019s think on it a bit.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Willow!\u2019 said Grandma Hoad. \u2018Let\u2019s get some grub fer there hungry men. Hurry up girl!\u2019\u00a0 As she stood up she placed a hand on Clem\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Thanks Clem,\u2019 she said. \u2018I knew I could count on you ta make things seem clearer.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem nodded as the women walked away. \u2018Pa?\u2019 He turned at the sound of his son\u2019s voice behind him. \u2018How come ya ain\u2019t gonna kill them Cartwrights like ya said?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem frowned at him. \u2018I never said I wasn\u2019t gonna get revenge on em,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m jest gonna do it quiet like so as not ta upset Aggie.\u00a0 Don\u2019t ya worry son,\u2019 he said. \u2018The one what killed ya cousins is gonna pay!\u2019\u00a0 He fingered his knife that was tucked into his belt. \u2018He\u2019s gonna pay big time!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018It\u2019s been two weeks now.\u00a0 Surely there\u2019s no harm in going over there ta see if they need help!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned at his youngest son. \u2018I\u2019ve told you before Joseph.\u00a0 When they want our help they\u2019ll ask for it,\u2019 he said. \u2018The Hoads are proud people and we can\u2019t just force it on them.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Do ya reckon they\u2019re gonna take up your offer of land ta settle on?\u2019 asked Hoss through a mouthful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018We\u2019ll just have to wait and see.\u00a0 Grandma Hoad said something about her brother coming to join them, so I guess they\u2019ll make their decision when he arrives.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced over at Adam. \u2018You feeling all right?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018I\u2019m fine Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Stop worrying about me.\u00a0 Paul said the wound had healed and it was all right to start back at work remember?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018I remember,\u2019 he said. \u2018But just you remember that it\u2019s light chores only. No riding out for a few days.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Joe with a cheeky grin. \u2018You can get all our chores done now.\u00a0 Me and Hoss have been covering for you for two weeks so it\u2019s about time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam lifted an eyebrow. \u2018Well it hasn\u2019t been my fault younger brother,\u2019 he said. At his words Joe went pale and hung his head, staring at his plate in front of him. Adam gave his father a stricken look as he realised what he\u2019d said. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Joe,\u2019 he said after a moment\u2019s hesitation. \u2018I didn\u2019t mean to say that.\u00a0 What I meant was \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe lifted his head and gave his brother a half-smile. \u2018I know what you meant,\u2019 he said. \u2018Its okay Adam.\u2019\u00a0 He shrugged. \u2018After all it was my fault that you got shot and there\u2019s no getting around that fact is there?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It was not your fault that your brother was shot!\u2019 said Ben angrily. \u2018I want you to get that thought out of your head Joseph.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father. \u2018Well it\u2019s a bit hard to do that Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Seeing as how all of this was my fault.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You couldn\u2019t help what happened,\u2019 said Adam quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u2018But it still did happen,\u2019 he said. \u2018If I hadn\u2019t been up there that day I would never have shot Dodie Hoad.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And The Ponderosa could have been destroyed by fire because of it,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well Adam wouldn\u2019t have been shot if I hadn\u2019t shot Jeb,\u2019 said Joe.\u00a0 And then I had to go and shoot Dodie as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He drew on you first,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I shouldn\u2019t have gone up there like Pa said,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I guess I acted before I thought like you always say I do Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed a hand on his son\u2019s arm. \u2018Joe we can\u2019t go back and change the past,\u2019 he said. \u2018All we can do is try to make the best of it and look to the future.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But don\u2019t you see Pa?\u2019 said Joe. \u2018That\u2019s just what I\u2019m trying to do.\u00a0 I feel responsible for all of this and I want to help the Hoads now.\u00a0 Can\u2019t you see that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course I can see that,\u2019 said his father. \u2018But\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I have to do something to make up for what has happened,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I just want to try!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018All right,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019ll go up there together.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave his father a grin. \u2018Thanks Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem Hoad put his hand up to shade his eyes as he stared at the two approaching riders, while behind him the other members of his family continued loading the wagon. \u2018Riders coming,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Grandma Hoad came to stand beside him. \u2018It\u2019s them Cartwright fellers,\u2019 she said. \u2018I reckon they\u2019ve come ta see iffen we\u2019re taking them up on their offer of that land or not.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Which one is the scum who killed em?\u2019 asked Clem.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The young pretty looking feller,\u2019 said Grandma. \u2018Goes by the name of Little Joe.\u2019\u00a0 She looked at Clem anxiously. \u2018Ya done promised me Clem. Ya done said there\u2019d be no more killing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem turned to her and nodded. \u2018I meant it,\u2019 he said shortly as his eyes narrowed. \u2018There\u2019ll be no killing.\u00a0 There\u2019s no need fer that.\u2019\u00a0 He studied the riders as they came closer. \u2018I don\u2019t want anyone ta make a move understood?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa!\u2019 said his son Zac behind him. \u2018That youngun killed Dodie and Jeb.\u00a0 Ya ain\u2019t aiming ta let him get away with it are ya?\u00a0 Ya can\u2019t!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem turned to him and glared. \u2018I said no one makes a move,\u2019 he said. \u2018Get back to the packing and let me handle this!\u2019 His eyes narrowed as he turned back and watched Joe and Ben dismount.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Howdy,\u2019 said Ben as they approached. He held out his hand. \u2018Cartwright\u2019s the name \u2026 Ben Cartwright \u2026 and this is my son Joseph.\u2019\u00a0 Clem stared at the outstretched hand and said nothing. Ben looked at Grandma Hoad and cleared his throat. \u2018I take it this is your brother-in-law?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad nodded \u2018This here\u2019s Clem,\u2019 she said. \u2018And them\u2019s his boys.\u2019 She indicated the men standing at the wagon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and withdrew his hand when it was obvious that Clem wasn\u2019t going to shake it. \u2018We just came to see if there was anything we could do,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon ya\u2019ve done enough,\u2019 said Clem behind gritted teeth. He gave Joe a menacing look that made him swallow and take an involuntary step closer to his father.\u00a0 Ben also noticed the look and instinctively checked his gun without trying to appear to do so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We didn\u2019t come for any trouble,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya won\u2019t get none here then,\u2019 said Clem in a tight voice. \u2018But you\u2019ll excuse me iffen I don\u2019t act too friendly to the ones what killed my nephews.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave a short nod. \u2018I can understand how you feel,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019d feel the same way if had been one of mine.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Would ya?\u2019 said Clem with another long look at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shot Grandma Hoad a look. \u2018Seems like you\u2019re moving on,\u2019 he said. \u2018Not going to stay on the land we offered?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No one here needs ya land Cartwright,\u2019 said Clem before Grandma Hoad could speak. \u2018We\u2019re all headed for California.\u2019\u00a0 Grandma Hoad shot him a puzzled look as he continued. \u2018We\u2019re leaving today.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stepped forward. \u2018I\u2019d like to say goodbye to Willow,\u2019 he said to Grandma Hoad. \u2018Is that okay?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem put his hand up to stop him. \u2018You\u2019re the one what done it, ain\u2019t ya?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018It was me.\u00a0 I\u2019m truly sorry it had to be like this Mr Hoad.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t mean to kill them.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem said nothing, but merely stared at him with narrowed eyes. After a moment Joe tried again. \u2018Is it all right if I say goodbye to her then?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow stepped forward at his words. \u2018Bye Joe,\u2019 she said. \u2018Thanks fer the dresses and suchlike.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem turned sharply. \u2018What dresses?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow looked at her uncle. \u2018Joe gave me some dresses and other stuff,\u2019 she said haughtily. \u2018Ain\u2019t nothing wrong with that!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem turned on her. \u2018You shut your mouth!\u2019 he said. \u2018Why\u2019s he giving you stuff anyways?\u00a0 What do ya do with him ta make him give ya presents?\u00a0 You answer me girl!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t done nothing wrong,\u2019 said Willow, blushing deeply. \u2018It\u2019s Bud I love and I\u2019m gonna marry him.\u00a0 Nothing\u2019s going on between me and Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem gave her a push. \u2018Ain\u2019t better be!\u2019 he said sharply. \u2018You!\u2019 he shouted as he turned back to Joe and Ben again. \u2018You\u2019d better get outta here fore I change my mind and decide not ta hold my anger agin ya in no more.\u00a0 Get!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father who was staring at Grandma Hoad. \u2018Ma\u2019am,\u2019 said Ben as he tipped his hat at her and ignored Clem. \u2018If ever you\u2019re back this way the offer of land still stands\u2026. Joseph come along.\u2019\u00a0 He beckoned to his son to follow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa,\u2019 said Joe as they reached the horses. \u2018This is our land.\u00a0 He can\u2019t just tell you to get \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph get on your horse,\u2019 said Ben sternly. \u2018It doesn\u2019t matter at the moment. They\u2019re leaving now so none of it matters.\u2019\u00a0 He mounted up and watched as Joe did the same. \u2018Ma\u2019am,\u2019 Ben said again and tipped his hat a second time as he turned his horse.\u00a0 With one last look at the Hoads Joe did the same and rode off after his father while Clem stared after them in silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Clem?\u2019 said Grandma Hoad \u2018Why\u2019d ya say we was all goin ta California?\u00a0 You and yourn are on ya way ta Mexico ain\u2019t ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ain\u2019t none of his business where we\u2019re headed,\u2019 answered Clem as he spat onto the ground. He walked over to his sons. \u2018Get this wagon loaded and outta here,\u2019 he said to them in a low voice. \u2018We got work ta do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We gonna kill that pretty little Cartwright fellar Pa?\u2019 asked Ike with a sneer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nope,\u2019 said his father. \u2018We ain\u2019t killing him\u2026 though he might wish that we was.\u2019\u00a0\u00a0 He spat onto the ground again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph please!\u2019 said Ben in frustration as Joe leant across the table and swiped a roll off Hoss\u2019 plate. \u2018Is there any need for that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018If I wanna get anything to eat there is,\u2019 said Joe as he stuffed it into his mouth. \u2018Hoss doesn\u2019t need three.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gave his brother a dark look. \u2018I need ta keep up my strength,\u2019 he said haughtily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah right!\u2019 said Joe with a cheeky grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. Much and all as he was pleased to see Joe bouncing back in this way now that the Hoads were gone, his youngest son\u2019s exuberance was sometimes a bit too much this early in the morning. \u2018Just settle down,\u2019 he said sternly. He turned to Adam. \u2018Are you sure you\u2019ll be all right getting the supplies today?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave a small sigh and tried not to look frustrated at his father\u2019s words. \u2018I\u2019m fine Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Really.\u00a0 Besides, Hoss will be with me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes of course,\u2019 said his father. \u2018And you young man,\u2019 he continued as he turned to Joe. \u2018You are to meet me up in the North Pasture at noon with that lumber for the fences. I won\u2019t be expecting you to be late \u2026 understood?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure thing Pa,\u2019 said Joe with a grin. \u2018I\u2019ll be on time like I always am.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his left eyebrow and tried not to look sarcastic at his son\u2019s words. \u2018Just be on time,\u2019 he said as he stood up. \u2018Come on then boys, let\u2019s get the day underway.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe reached over and picked up another roll from Hoss\u2019 plate. \u2018Hey!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Leave that alone!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh,\u2019 said his younger brother with a contrite look. \u2018Was that yours? Sorry!\u2019\u00a0 He stuffed it into his mouth as he bounded over to the front door, picking up his hat and jacket on the way. \u2018Bye Pa!\u2019 he called. \u2018See you at noon!\u2019\u00a0 He slammed the front door behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now Pa?\u2019 Ike looked at his father anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said ta wait!\u2019 ordered Clem. \u2018Zac needs ta stop him first.\u2019\u00a0 He looked down at the trail below them where the buckboard was slowly making its way west and grinned nastily. \u2018There\u2019s plenty of time,\u2019 he mused. \u2018He ain\u2019t going nowhere but where we want him to. You get on down there now and help ya brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he spoke, a rider down below came out of the bushes next to the trail and stopped in front of the buckboard.\u00a0 Joe pulled the horses to a halt and looked at him uneasily. \u2018I thought you\u2019d already left,\u2019 he said warily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Did ya?\u2019 said Zac as he brought his horse around to the side next to Joe. \u2018Well what do ya know, the pretty little Cartwright fellar thought we was gone.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We ain\u2019t,\u2019 said Ike casually as he rode up and stopped beside his brother. He spat on the ground in front of Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What do you want?\u2019 asked Joe after a moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He wants ta know what we want,\u2019 said Zac. \u2018How bout that Ike?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Ike. \u2018How bout that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Get out of the way,\u2019 said Joe, feeling more uneasy by the minute. \u2018I\u2019ve got work to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Really?\u2019 said Zac as he leant close enough so that Joe could smell his bad breath. \u2018Where ya going?\u00a0 Out ta see ya daddy with that lumber?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018As a matter of fact yes I am,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Now get out of the way before I run your horses off the trail.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wouldn\u2019t be thinking like that young fellar,\u2019 said a voice behind him and Joe turned sharply to see Clem sitting there on his horse. Clem aimed a rifle at him. \u2018Get down off that there buckboard young Cartwright,\u2019 said Clem. Joe hesitated but got down quickly as Clem cocked the gun. \u2018Now take off that fancy shooting pistol,\u2019 said Clem. Joe did as he was told and handed it to the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My Pa and brothers will be along in a minute,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem shook his head and grinned nastily. \u2018No they won\u2019t,\u2019 he said. \u2018Your daddy is out that way,\u2019 he gestured with his hand. \u2018And them two brothers of yourn took off into the town. They ain\u2019t about ta come anywheres near here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed uneasily. \u2018If you kill me my Pa will see you dead,\u2019 he said, trying to keep his voice in control and not them hear the panic he was feeling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem ignored his comment and beckoned to Ike. \u2018Get that rope,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hurry up and tie his hands behind him.\u2019\u00a0 He watched as his son did as he bid him. \u2018Now git him up on that horse,\u2019 he said. Ike hoisted Joe up on his horse and then mounted behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My Pa will kill you for this!\u2019 Joe declared. \u2018He won\u2019t let you get away with it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike hit him on the side of the head with a blow that nearly sent him sprawling down onto the ground. \u2018Shut up!\u2019 he ordered. \u2018Ya open ya mouth again and I\u2019ll close it fer ya!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe steadied himself in the saddle and shut his mouth. It was obvious to him that the man meant what he said and he wasn\u2019t about to push him to see if he would do it.\u00a0 Suddenly his hat was ripped from his head and he turned to see Clem throw it to the ground. \u2018I\u2019d love ta see ya daddy\u2019s face when he sees that!\u2019 he said with an ugly grin. \u2018Maybe he might feel like Aggie did when she knew she\u2019d never see her boys agin.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018What are you \u2026.\u2019 Another blow on his head made him stop in mid-sentence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I told ya ta shut up!\u2019 said Ike angrily. \u2018Ya only speak when I tell ya to \u2026 understood?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded slightly and looked straight ahead of him as Ike turned his horse. The four men rode off into the distance, leaving the buckboard and horses behind them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright rode slowly along the trail towards the house with anger in his heart. That boy!\u2019 he said under his breath. \u2018I\u2019m going to give him a piece of my mind when I see him!\u2019\u00a0 He squinted his eyes against the sun as he looked into the distance and saw a buckboard coming towards him. \u2018About time!\u2019 he said angrily as he continued to ride towards it. He frowned as he realised that it wasn\u2019t Joe, but Adam and Hoss in the supply wagon. \u2018I thought it was your brother,\u2019 he said as they pulled up beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He hasn\u2019t brought the lumber to you yet?\u2019 asked Adam in a surprised tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No he hasn\u2019t,\u2019 said Ben shortly. \u2018And I\u2019m going to have a piece of him when he does! Did you see him on your way?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head \u2018Nope,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s probably still loading it Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well he should have finished by now!\u2019 said Ben angrily. \u2018That boy can never be trusted to be on time anywhere.\u2019 He turned his horse around. \u2018Well I may as well come along with you two back to the house for lunch.\u00a0 No doubt we\u2019ll find him there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss hitched the reins up again and they set off back towards the house.\u00a0 After several minutes, Adam put his hand up to his eyes and stared off into the distance. \u2018Isn\u2019t that the buckboard over there?\u2019 he said, pointing across a meadow. \u2018Under those trees?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now why on earth would your brother have stopped there?\u2019 asked Ben as he stood up in the stirrups and looked across that way. \u2018What on earth would he be thinking?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 Hoss\u2019 call made Ben turn sharply. \u2018Look!\u2019\u00a0 They all looked at the side of the trail where Hoss was pointing.\u00a0 There in the grass was Joe\u2019s hat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s heart froze for a moment and then he turned his horse and galloped over to where the buckboard and horses were standing.\u00a0 Hoss turned the horses and he and Adam followed their father. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 called Ben as he approached the buckboard. \u2018Joseph are you here?\u2019\u00a0 He dismounted quickly and grabbed the reins of the horses as Hoss pulled the other buckboard to a halt behind him. \u2018He\u2019s not here,\u2019 said Ben, trying to keep the panic out of his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We had a quick look Pa,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018There\u2019s three sets of prints back there on the trail.\u2019\u00a0 Ben was silent as the truth dawned on him and his worst fears were recognised. \u2018The Hoads,\u2019 he said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Looks like it,\u2019 said Adam thoughtfully. \u2018Seems like maybe they hadn\u2019t gone after all.\u2019 He hesitated. \u2018We\u2019d better \u2026\u2019 he glanced at Hoss with a despairing look before continuing. \u2018Pa?\u00a0 We\u2019d better take a look around.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at his eldest son silently. He knew exactly what he was getting at, but his head and his heart refused to acknowledge the fact that his youngest son\u2019s body might be close by. He stood still as Adam and Hoss got down. \u2018Pa?\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018We haveta take a look around.\u2019\u00a0 Ben nodded, but still didn\u2019t move.\u00a0 His legs wouldn\u2019t obey him and at that point it was beyond him to force them.\u00a0 Instead he stood and stared at his two sons as they scouted around the area.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After ten minutes Adam and Hoss came back. Adam shook his head. \u2018Nothing Pa,\u2019 he said as he put his hand on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u2018It\u2019s all right. There\u2019s nothing here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben let out the breath that he\u2019d been holding and momentarily closed his eyes. \u2018Then they didn\u2019t kill him,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at Hoss. \u2018Not here anyway,\u2019 he said in a low tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss put his hand over his eyes for a moment and drew a deep breath. \u2018I\u2019ll kill em!\u2019 he declared. \u2018I\u2019m gonna\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s mind snapped back into action. \u2018He could still be alive,\u2019 he said as he mounted up. \u2018We don\u2019t know for sure that he\u2019s dead. They might have just taken him for some reason.\u2019\u00a0 He turned his horse and motioned to his sons.\u00a0 \u2018Get that buckboard back to the house and pick up your horses,\u2019 he instructed. \u2018I\u2019ll start following their trail and you can catch up to me. Let\u2019s ride!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike reached up and pulled Joe down from the saddle and watched in amusement as he fell like a sack of potatoes onto the ground with a thump. \u2018Hurt yaself?\u2019 he asked and gave the youngster on the ground a swift kick with the toe of his boot. Joe saw it coming and tried to roll away from the impact, but didn\u2019t manage to do so in time.\u00a0 The kick connected with a force that took his breath away and he hadn\u2019t had time to recover from it before him felt himself being hauled to his feet and shoved away from the horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike pushed him towards a tree and tied the rope that held his hands around the base of it. \u2018That\u2019ll hold ya,\u2019 he said nastily and kicked him again before walking away. Joe eased himself to a sitting position and looked around.\u00a0 They were camped in a small clearing that backed onto a high wall of rock and Joe guessed that they would be well hidden in case they were being followed.\u00a0 He hoped that Pa and his brothers had realised by now what had happened and were coming after him and he only hoped that he would remain alive until they caught up with them.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t know why the Hoads had kept him alive so far, but he was sure grateful that they had.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sensed Clem staring at him and he looked back at the man, worried at the look that he saw in his eyes.\u00a0 It was a look of pure hate and Joe knew that in the man\u2019s eyes he deserved it. After all, he had killed his nephews and Clem was well within his rights to feel that way.\u00a0 Not that it made it any easier for Joe \u2026 he realised that he wasn\u2019t likely to come out of this and the thought made him sick with fear. Yet he was determined that the Hoads wouldn\u2019t see his fear and instead stared back at the man until he turned away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We gonna feed him?\u2019 asked Zac suddenly.\u00a0 He was handing plates of food to his father and brother and held one for himself as well. Joe looked at Clem and sensed the man\u2019s hesitation before he replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Clem as he took his plate. \u2018No use him holding us back. We gotta keep him alive and healthy fer now. Feed him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zac came over to Joe and put a plate of food on the ground in front of him.\u00a0 He took out his pistol and aimed it at Joe\u2019s head while he untied the rope that bound his hands with the other. \u2018Hurry up and eat,\u2019 he spat at him. \u2018I ain\u2019t got all day!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe clenched and unclenched his hands quickly to get the blood flowing back into them. \u2018Hurry up!\u2019 said Zac again and Joe quickly picked up the plate of food and began to eat while Zac pointed the gun at him.\u00a0 When he\u2019d finished he looked at the man. \u2018Now put ya hands behind ya back agin,\u2019 instructed Zac.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I \u2026.\u2019 Joe hesitated, not sure of whether or not to push his luck. \u2018I need to go,\u2019 he said feebly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said ta put ya hands behind ya back!\u2019 said Zac, gesturing with his gun. Joe did as he was told and winced as the man tied the ropes tightly.\u00a0 It seemed that his personal needs would have to wait. Zac stood up and picked up his own plate and began to eat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We made good time taday,\u2019 said Clem between mouthfuls. \u2018Should be outta the Territory in a couple of days if we keep up this speed.\u2019\u00a0 Joe wondered where they were headed and why, but didn\u2019t dare ask. Clem pointed with his knife back towards the way they had come. \u2018I reckon them Cartwrights is well on their way after Aggie and the others by now.\u2019\u00a0 He gave a short laugh. \u2018Hope that Ben Cartwright listened when I told him we was all headed fer California.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s heart sank as he realised that was exactly what his family would do.\u00a0 They\u2019d follow the trail of Grandma Hoad and the others, not realising that Clem and his boys had gone in the other direction.\u00a0 As far as he could make out they had been headed south all day and at this rate they\u2019d eventually get to Mexico given enough time.\u00a0 Clem\u2019s next words realised his greatest fears. \u2018I reckon we\u2019ll be outta the country in a couple of weeks,\u2019 said Clem easily as he eyed Joe off. \u2018Yer daddy won\u2019t be finding ya down there down there in a hurry will he young Cartwright?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My Pa will find me no matter where we go!\u2019 said Joe in spite of his resolution to keep quiet. \u2018You can\u2019t take me far enough away that he won\u2019t!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem leant forward and stared at him. \u2018Ya reckon?\u2019 he said. \u2018Well we\u2019ll see.\u2019\u00a0 He sat back again. \u2018Sides,\u2019 he said easily. \u2018Iffen he does eventually find ya, he may not like what he sees.\u2019\u00a0 He gave a nasty laugh and picked up his knife as he scrunched over to where Joe was tied. He pulled Joe\u2019s head back by his hair and held the knife to his exposed throat. \u2018I could kill ya right now kid,\u2019 he said menacingly. \u2018Ya know that don\u2019t ya?\u2019\u00a0 Joe tried to swallow, but couldn\u2019t.\u00a0 He stared back at the man silently. Clem\u2019s eyes narrowed. \u2018I reckon I should,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018But I got other plans fer ya.\u2019\u00a0 He spat into the boy\u2019s face and began to trace a line with the knife from his throat up along his cheekbone towards his hairline.\u00a0 Joe felt his blood go cold at the cold touch of the metal and he closed his eyes involuntarily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the matter?\u2019 asked Clem. \u2018Scared are ya?\u2019\u00a0 He laughed again. \u2018Never ya mind youngster, I ain\u2019t killing ya.\u00a0 Not unless ya force me too.\u2019\u00a0 He stared into Joe\u2019s eyes. \u2018I reckon it\u2019d be a shame ta kill ya though. Pretty young fellar like you has gotta fetch a good price down in Mexico.\u2019\u00a0 He felt Joe\u2019s arm. \u2018Healthy,\u2019 he said. \u2018Some big ranchero owner is gonna love having you working fer him.\u00a0 Young and strong like ya is.\u2019\u00a0 He drew back from the frightened youngster. \u2018Just ya behave yaself and ya\u2019ll make it down there in one piece,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt his heart begin to beat rapidly as he leant back towards the tree behind him and away from the man. \u2018You\u2019ll never make it that far with me,\u2019 he said. \u2018My Pa will hunt you down.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Mebbe,\u2019 said Clem in an easy voice. \u2018But iffen he does then we\u2019ll just kill ya.\u00a0 Don\u2019t make no difference ta me either way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up at Clem as he stood up and began to walk away and his heart sank as he realised that the man spoke the truth.\u00a0 He would kill Joe in the blink of an eye.\u00a0 Joe resolved not to provoke him to want to do it. He shivered as he realised that the sun was going down.\u00a0 It promised to be a cold night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It ain\u2019t no use Pa,\u2019 said Hoss mournfully as he scanned the rocks in front of them.\u00a0 \u2018They knew what they was doing all right when they headed up there.\u00a0 We\u2019ve been up and down this part six times and there ain\u2019t no way we can track em on them rocks.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben slammed his fist into his hand in sheer frustration. \u2018Well we\u2019ll just have to try again,\u2019 he said. \u2018We have no other choice.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018Yes we do,\u2019 he said. \u2018They said they were headed for California didn\u2019t they?\u00a0 All we need to do is head west and we\u2019ll catch them eventually.\u00a0 Those wagons of their\u2019s can only go a couple of ways through the mountains after all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at him thoughtfully. \u2018True,\u2019 he said. \u2018All right, we\u2019ll head west. Adam, you\u2019d better stay back at the house and leave this to Hoss and myself.\u00a0 You\u2019re not up to it yet.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m coming,\u2019 said Adam in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said his father. \u2018You\u2019re going back to \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m coming Pa,\u2019 repeated Adam in a determined tone. He stared at his father unblinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave a short nod. \u2018All right,\u2019 he said. \u2018Let\u2019s ride.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike dragged Joe to his feet roughly. \u2018Come on Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018Time ta get going.\u2019\u00a0 He pushed him towards the horse and Joe stumbled and almost fell.\u00a0 \u2018Hurry up,\u2019 said Ike and pushed him again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned to face the man, determined to speak his mind. \u2018I \u2026. I gotta go,\u2019 he said with a tinge of embarrassment.\u00a0 He had no intention of spending the day with the discomfort he presently felt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike gave a short laugh. \u2018Ya don\u2019t say?\u2019 he said. \u2018Tough.\u2019\u00a0 He made to push Joe again, but the youngster stepped sideways.\u00a0 Ike frowned at him and grabbed him by the shoulders and shook him roughly. \u2018I said ta hurry up,\u2019 said Ike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe put his head down in a resigned fashion and turned towards the horse, but as he did so he heard a voice behind them. \u2018Untie his hands and let him go,\u2019 said Clem. \u2018I told ya we need him healthy.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike gave Joe a dark look and began to untie the rope while Clem covered them with his gun. Joe felt the blood pounding back into his hands as his bonds were loosened and he tried to move slowly to give himself more time before they were tied again. \u2018Hurry up,\u2019 said Ike behind him and pushed him forward towards the tree where he\u2019d been tied the night before. Joe did as he needed to and no sooner had he finished than his hands were tied again behind him and he was shoved back towards the horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t think we\u2019re gonna waste time like that every time ya want us to,\u2019 said Ike as he pushed him up onto the horse and climbed up behind him. \u2018We ain\u2019t got time fer babying ya all the way.\u2019\u00a0 He hit Joe on the side of the head as they rode out of the camp.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By that afternoon, Joe ached all over from trying to keep upright in the saddle without his hands to steady him.\u00a0 He was mighty glad when they finally made camp for the night, even if it meant being tied to a tree again.\u00a0 At least they were feeding him and giving him water, he reasoned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he sat and watched the Hoads that night he was struck by the resemblance between them.\u00a0 It was obvious that they were father and sons as they all shared the same weak chin, the same watery blue eyes and the same thinning hair \u2026. Not to mention the unkempt look they all had.\u00a0 Their clothes were tattered and even torn in some places and all of them were barefoot. He sensed them sizing up his own appearance even as he scrutinized them and looked away so as not to appear obvious about it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As if they were reading his mind, Zac suddenly spoke. \u2018Mighty fine boots ya got there young Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018I reckon they might just fit me. What do ya reckon Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem shrugged. \u2018Reckon so,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon I might jest have em then,\u2019 said Zac with a sneer. \u2018Ain\u2019t much use ta you any more after all is they Cartwright?\u2019 Joe said nothing, but stared over his shoulder rather than look at the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How come you get em?\u2019 asked Ike. \u2018I reckon I should have em!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Look at em,\u2019 said Zac as he pulled one off Joe\u2019s foot.\u00a0 They ain\u2019t near big enough fer you!\u00a0 Ya can have something else.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike scrunched over to Joe and fingered his shirt. \u2018Reckon this\u2019ll do me,\u2019 he said, his eyes glinting.\u00a0 Joe tried to move away from the man, but found it impossible to do so given the way he was tied up. \u2018Reckon I\u2019ll jest relieve ya of that too,\u2019 said Ike with a grin. \u2018You cover him Zac while I get it off him.\u2019\u00a0 He reached around and untied Joe\u2019s hands. \u2018Get it off Cartwright,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 Joe hesitated. \u2018I said get it off,\u2019 he repeated. \u2018Unless ya want me ta rip it off ya!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took his shirt off slowly, shivering as the cold night air hit his naked skin. \u2018Here ya go,\u2019 said Ike with a toothless grin. \u2018Ya can have this one!\u2019\u00a0 He flung Joe his own tattered shirt as he put on the youngster\u2019s shirt in place of it. Joe picked it up with distaste, flinching at the smell of it. \u2018What\u2019s the matter?\u2019 asked Ike. \u2018Not good enough fer ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ya\u2019ll have ta get used ta not having any of them fancy duds where ya\u2019re going,\u2019 said Zac as he pulled off Joe\u2019s other boot as well as his socks. \u2018Ya won\u2019t have any need fer em down where you\u2019ll be.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike pushed Joe forward to tied his hands behind him and around the tree again. \u2018There,\u2019 he said happily when he\u2019d finished. \u2018Don\u2019t I look mighty fine in this here shirt?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem looked over at his boys. \u2018We may as well get his pants while we\u2019re at it too,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike looked at the youngster. \u2018They won\u2019t fit any of us Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s too small.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem stroked his chin as he gave Joe a long and slow appraising stare that made the boy squirm with embarrassment. \u2018True,\u2019 he acknowledged. \u2018But we could sell em along the way.\u2019\u00a0 He reached into his saddlebag and pulled out a rough-looking pair of dirty pants. \u2018Git these on him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya heard him,\u2019 said Zac. \u2018Help me git them duds off him.\u2019\u00a0 He and Ike pulled Joe\u2019s pants off in spite of the boy\u2019s kicking and handed them to their father. Joe had never felt more embarrassed in his whole life, lying there in his long-john bottoms as they all looked at him. \u2018How bout this fancy underwear?\u2019 asked Zac. \u2018Reckon we can sell it too?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure,\u2019 said Clem. \u2018Hand it over.\u2019 Zac began to pull the long johns off Joe, but Joe kicked out at him and caught him square in the stomach with his foot. Zac gave a grunt. \u2018Why ya dirty little \u2026\u2019 he began and reached over and punched Joe hard in the stomach.\u00a0 While Joe was recovering his breath, the two brothers pulled the long johns off him and replaced them with the dirty pants.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the matter young Cartwright?\u2019 asked Clem with a sneer as he looked at the obviously embarrassed boy. \u2018Don\u2019t like getting changed in front of us?\u00a0 Quite a come-down fer a fancy kid like you ain\u2019t it?\u2019\u00a0 He fingered the clothing in his hands. \u2018We should get quite a bit fer fancy stuff like this,\u2019 he said as he put them into his saddlebag. \u2018Pity he weren\u2019t wearing a jacket as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We can sell his gun and holster too Pa,\u2019 said Ike as he buttoned up Joe\u2019s shirt on his own body. \u2018They should bring in a lot.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We\u2019ll keep the gun,\u2019 said Clem. \u2018The holster we can git rid of.\u2019\u00a0 He grinned at Joe and cupped the boy\u2019s chin in his hand as he stared into his eyes. \u2018Seems like we can make quite a bit outta of ya Cartwright don\u2019t it?\u2019 he said. \u2018Once we get a good price fer you as well we\u2019ll be doing real fine fer a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How much ya reckon we\u2019ll git Pa?\u2019 asked Zac with shining eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ain\u2019t sure,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018He\u2019s quality though. Someone\u2019ll be prepared ta spend up big on him.\u2019\u00a0 He pushed Joe\u2019s face away from him. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018We sure is mighty lucky that it was a healthy pretty young fellar like you that did the murdering that\u2019s fer sure! We\u2019re gonna make our fortune on all this!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad straightened up and stretched her back. \u2018Willow!\u2019 she called. \u2018Git over here and clean up this mess!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow walked over and began to clean up the remains of the supper they had all just finished. As she scraped the plates she looked at her grandmother out of the corner of her eye. \u2018You okay Grandma?\u2019 she asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Cause I\u2019m all right!\u2019 said the old woman testily. \u2018Jest tired is all!\u00a0 Get that work done so we can all bed down fer the night.\u2019\u00a0 She looked over to where Bud and the others were looking after the horses. \u2018Seems that the horses is a mite jumpy tonight,\u2019 she observed.\u2019 I wonder why.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow opened her mouth to speak, but shut it again as she noticed a movement behind her grandmother.\u00a0 Her eyes widened as Ben Cartwright stepped out from the bushes, followed by Adam and Hoss. \u2018Mr Cartwright!\u2019 she exclaimed. \u2018What\u2019re you all doing here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright cocked his gun in the direction of the men. \u2018Get over here!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Now!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow took a step forward. \u2018What\u2019s the matter?\u2019 she asked as the men obeyed and came to stand next to the two women.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben ignored her and turned to face Grandma Hoad. \u2018Where\u2019s the rest of them?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Where\u2019s your brother-in-law and the rest of his sons?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad\u2019s eyes narrowed. \u2018Now jest ya wait right there!\u2019 she said testily. \u2018Who gives ya the right ta come in here with ya guns drawn on us I\u2019d like ta know?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Answer my question!\u2019 demanded Ben. \u2018Where are they?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad said nothing, but merely stared at the Cartwrights. \u2018That\u2019s our business,\u2019 she said haughtily. \u2018Ain\u2019t nothing ta do with ya!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing to do with us?\u2019 exploded Ben. \u2018I want to know where my son is and I want to know now!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Now where is that brother-in-law of yours and what has he done with my son?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow took a step forward, but Grandma Hoad held onto her arm. \u2018We don\u2019t know nothing bout your son,\u2019 she said firmly. \u2018Seems like ya\u2019re looking in the wrong place.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stepped forward. \u2018You tell me where my little brother is or I\u2019ll blow your heads clean off!\u2019 he said to the group in general. \u2018Where is he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Little Joe?\u2019 asked Willow. \u2018Is he missing?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated and turned to the girl.\u00a0 She looked back at him with wide eyes that spoke volumes. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Joseph is missing. We aim to find him \u2026.\u2019 He looked around the camp. \u2018He isn\u2019t here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Willow. \u2018We don\u2019t know anything bout where he might be.\u00a0 Honest Mr Cartwright \u2026 we ain\u2019t seen him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s shoulders sagged.\u00a0 The only thing keeping him going during the past few days had been the thought that they would find Joseph alive with the Hoads and now it seemed that it wasn\u2019t to be. At that moment he wondered if he would ever see his son alive again and the thought all but consumed him with grief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched as his father seemed to crumple before his eyes. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said as he laid a hand on the man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Pa we have to find out where the others went.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and tried to pull himself together. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said faintly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam waited for a moment and then stepped forward. \u2018You!\u2019 he said to Bud. \u2018Where are they? Where have they gone?\u2019\u00a0 Bud merely stared at him without saying a word. \u2018Adam turned to the next man. \u2018How about you?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Are you going to tell me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No one\u2019s gonna tell ya,\u2019 interrupted Grandma Hoad. \u2018I done told ya before \u2026 ya ain\u2019t got any right ta be here holding guns on us like this.\u2019\u00a0 She glared at the Cartwrights. \u2018Now why don\u2019t ya all jest git!\u2019 she snarled. \u2018There ain\u2019t no one here\u2019s gonna tell ya nothing!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow stepped forward. \u2018They was headed fer Mexico,\u2019 she said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad turned on her grand daughter and slapped her hard across the face. \u2018You shut up!\u2019 she yelled. \u2018What\u2019d ya wanna go and say that fer?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow held her hand up to her cheek. \u2018Little Joe helped me Grandma!\u2019 she declared. \u2018He helped me when he didn\u2019t haveta!\u00a0 I aim ta help him iffen I can!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at the girl gratefully. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 he said. \u2018Thank you very much Willow.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced at the others and then back to her again. \u2018We could take you with us if you want,\u2019 he offered. \u2018You don\u2019t have to stay here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow shook her head and held out her hand to Bud who stepped forward to take it. \u2018No,\u2019 she said. \u2018I belong here with my kin.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded as he turned away. \u2018Come on boys,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019ve got a lot of ground to cover.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Hoads watched as the Cartwrights mounted up and rode away. Willow gave her grandmother a defiant look and took a step closer to Bud. \u2018I done what I hadta do grandma,\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grandma Hoad hesitated a moment before speaking. \u2018I guess ya did girl,\u2019 she said. \u2018I guess ya did.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The days were all beginning to blend into one as far as Joe was concerned. Every one followed the same routine as he was dragged ever closer to the border and he felt himself gradually losing control of his will to appear strong in front of the Hoads and their daily torment of him. It was all becoming too much for him and he longed for nothing more than to be able to break down in front of them and sob out his despair. Yet somehow he held himself together and suffered in silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was fed adequately and given enough water, but beyond his personal needs the Hoads left him to himself and hardly ever spoke to him \u2026 apart from the taunting that they inflicted upon him each night as they sat around the fireplace. They seemed to take great delight in the fact that he was gradually looking more and more unkempt as the days passed.\u00a0 The clothing he\u2019d been forced to wear was ill fitting and he longed to be able to have a wash.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya stink ya know Cartwright,\u2019 said Ike one night. \u2018Not really the pretty fellar ya used ta be is ya?\u2019\u00a0 Joe forced himself ta say nothing to the man, as he had realised that to answer them back only riled them even more. He longed to tell them that they stank as well, but knew that he\u2019d pay for it if he did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We\u2019ll be reaching the border sometime tomorra,\u2019 said Clem thoughtfully. \u2018Reckon we can take it a bit easier then.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Where ya reckon on getting rid of him Pa?\u2019 asked Zac. \u2018How much more do ya reckon we haveta put up with him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not long,\u2019 answered Clem. \u2018Once we\u2019re over the border it don\u2019t much matter.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Still reckon we shoulda jest kilt him and be done with it,\u2019 said Ike as he glared at Joe. \u2018He ain\u2019t worth the trouble.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll do as I say!\u2019 said Clem angrily. \u2018It ain\u2019t that he\u2019s worth the trouble,\u2019 he spat. \u2018Cause we all know that he ain\u2019t.\u2019\u00a0 He gave Joe a baleful look. \u2018He\u2019ll wish we done kilt him fore long and that\u2019s what counts.\u2019 He smiled evilly. \u2018That and the fact that his daddy won\u2019t ever know what done happened ta him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My Pa will so know!\u2019 said Joe in spite of himself. \u2018It doesn\u2019t mater how far into Mexico we go \u2026 my Pa won\u2019t rest till he\u2019s found me and then he\u2019ll come after you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem leant forward and cupped Joe\u2019s chin in his hand as he bent close to him. \u2018You shut up!\u2019 he said. \u2018Did anyone tell you ta speak boy?\u2019\u00a0 Joe stared into the man\u2019s evil eyes and said nothing. Clem squeezed Joe\u2019s chin and tilted his head backwards. \u2018I asked ya a question boy!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018Did anyone tell ya ta speak?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe flinched as the man\u2019s grip got tighter and his head was tilted even further back.\u00a0 He felt as if his neck would snap and he began to find it hard to breathe. In a panic, he shook his head firmly. \u2018What was that?\u2019 asked Clem. \u2018No,\u2019 croaked Joe softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem let go of the youngster. \u2018Then don\u2019t speak until ya told to!\u2019 he said. He drew back his hand and slapped Joe hard across the face and then spat in his direction. \u2018Uppity,\u2019 he said. \u2018That\u2019s all ya is Cartwright. Downright uppity boy!\u2019\u00a0 He gave a short chuckle. \u2018Well we\u2019ll jest see how uppity ya stay after we\u2019s finished with ya, won\u2019t we?\u2019\u00a0 He stood up and stretched lazily. \u2018You take first watch tonight Ike. We need ta get some sleep so\u2019s we can git going early in the morning. I aim ta get over that border by noon.\u2019\u00a0 He looked down at Joe. \u2018Then we\u2019ll see some fun won\u2019t we pretty boy?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018This is it,\u2019 said Clem as he looked at the town in the distance. \u2018La Joyita.\u00a0 We\u2019s in Mexico now fer sure.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced over at Joe who was seated in front of Ike on his horse with his hands tied behind his back as usual. \u2018Reckon we can afford ta go a bit slower now,\u2019 he said and jerked his thumb at Ike.\u00a0 Joe immediately gave Joe a huge push and he slid from the saddle and hit the ground with a hard thud.\u00a0 Without the use of his hands to break his fall he felt dazed for a few moments \u2026 enough time for Ike to get down and tie him to the saddle horn with a long rope.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018About time,\u2019 said Ike as he got back onto his horse and looked down at Joe who was still recovering on the ground from his fall. \u2018I was sick of riding with the likes of ya.\u00a0 Git up or I\u2019ll be dragging ya from here.\u2019\u00a0 Joe got to his feet as quickly as he could, sure that the man meant what he said.\u00a0 Without hesitation Ike turned his horse and began to follow his father and brother with Joe having no choice but to walk behind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not so uppity now, eh Cartwright?\u2019 Clem called over his shoulder. \u2018Beginning ta wish we done kilt ya back there eh?\u2019 Joe put his head down and refused to look at the man. \u2018Suit yaself,\u2019 said Clem with a shrug. \u2018We\u2019ll be shed of ya soon enough.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stopped as they came close to the town. \u2018Ike you wait here,\u2019 instructed his father. \u2018Zac and me will get in there and make some money off these things of pretty boy\u2019s and scout around ta see what our prospects might be. I want ya ta make sure that he don\u2019t cause no trouble while ya wait.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike gave Joe a hard look. \u2018Don\u2019t ya worry Pa,\u2019 he said as he jerked on the rope. \u2018He won\u2019t give no trouble nohow. I\u2019ll see ta it.\u2019\u00a0 He jerked on the rope again and Joe almost lost his balance. \u2018Steady Cartwright,\u2019 said Ike in an easy voice. \u2018Ya don\u2019t wanna go and hurt yaself do ya?\u2019\u00a0 He slid down from the saddle as his father and brother rode off. \u2018Now let\u2019s git ya settled eh?\u2019\u00a0 He dragged Joe over to a nearby tree and threw the rope over a branch before pulling on it. Joe\u2019s hands, which were still tied behind his back, were raised up until his shoulders began to ache and as Ike noticed his uncomfortable position he smiled and began to tie off the rope. \u2018That\u2019ll hold ya,\u2019 he said in the same easy tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike sat down in the shade and began to help himself to a drink of water. \u2018Guess ya\u2019d like some of this eh Cartwright?\u2019 he asked in between swallows.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s mouth was indeed as parched as he could ever remember, but he refused to answer the man.\u00a0 In spite of himself his eyes watched the man drinking and a low groan escaped from him before he could stop it. Ike smirked at him. \u2018What\u2019s that Cartwright?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Did ya say something?\u2019\u00a0 He took another swallow and then put the stopper on the canteen. \u2018No? Well I think I might jest have a bit of a rest while we wait eh?\u00a0 Make myself comfortable so ta speak.\u2019\u00a0 He gave Joe a grin and leant back against a tree while he watched him. \u2018Pity ya can\u2019t do the same, ain\u2019t it pretty boy?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe said nothing, but stared at the ground in front of him in order to avoid looking at the man.\u00a0 His arms and shoulders ached and he prayed that the others wouldn\u2019t take too long as he didn\u2019t know how long he could maintain his position before he began to tire of standing upright.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t long before he realised that his legs were beginning to give way and he began to sag in spite of the rope that held him.\u00a0 As he sank lower the weight of his body began to rest more heavily on his shoulders and he gave a small groan in spite of himself. Instantly Ike sat up again. \u2018Ya say something Cartwright?\u2019 he asked with a huge smile on his face. When Joe didn\u2019t respond he got up and walked over to him. \u2018I asked if ya said something?\u2019 he yelled into Joe\u2019s face. \u2018Answer me!\u2019\u00a0 Joe looked at Ike\u2019s feet in front of him and didn\u2019t answer. Suddenly his head was jerked up and he was forced to stare straight into the man\u2019s eyes. \u2018I said ta answer me!\u2019 Ike yelled again,\u2019 spraying spittle all over Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe flinched involuntarily. Ike gave him a grin and drew back his fist before punching him full in the stomach.\u00a0 Joe gave a gasp and closed his eyes as the force of the blow hit him and knocked the breath out of him momentarily. \u2018Well?\u2019 asked Ike again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Joe in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike let go of his head. \u2018Fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018Make sure ya don\u2019t disturb me again then, ya hear?\u2019\u00a0 He walked over and sat down under the tree again and tilted his hat back as he stared at Joe. \u2018You and me\u2019s gonna get on real fine Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018Long as ya remember ta mind ya place.\u00a0 Yes sir \u2026 we\u2019s gonna get on real fine.\u2019\u00a0 Joe stared at the ground and prayed silently for the others to return.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s he doin tied up like that fer?\u2019 asked Clem as he dismounted from his horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike sprang to his feet immediately. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018But he gave me a hard time,\u2019 he lied. \u2018It was the only way I could keep him quiet. I know that ya don\u2019t want him damaged so I\u2019ll cut him down now that yer both back.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem waved him away. \u2018Don\u2019t matter now,\u2019 he said gruffly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike looked confused. \u2018What do ya mean Pa? Ain\u2019t we gonna sell him here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon not,\u2019 said Clem as he sat down and took a drink from his canteen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We got run outta town,\u2019 said Zac with a dark look at Joe. \u2018It was all we could do ta git some money fer his things.\u00a0 Once Pa and me started ta ask round town bout offloading him,\u2019 he jerked a thumb in Joe\u2019s direction. \u2018Things got ugly.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How do ya mean .. ugly?\u2019 asked Ike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Some smart mouthed Mexican lawman warned us outta town,\u2019 said Clem. \u2018Reckoned we had no business being trying ta drum up a sale fer pretty boy over here.\u2019\u00a0 He glared at Joe. \u2018Reckon we\u2019s gonna do no good here now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zac sat down next to his father \u2018What we gonna do now Pa?\u2019 he asked. Joe listened with fear in his heart as the two sons waited for their father\u2019s reply. He knew full well that without the possibility of a sale his life was worth very little to them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem stroked his chin. \u2018I reckon we\u2019d best be heading back towards California,\u2019 he said. \u2018Ain\u2019t no use staying round here.\u00a0 We could head up through Escondido and catch up with ya aunt Aggie and the others.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What about Cartwright?\u2019 asked Ike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon they would caught up with em long before we get there,\u2019 answered his father. \u2018They\u2019s got nothing ta go on iffen they have, so things should be fine once we get there.\u00a0 They\u2019ll be long gone.\u2019 He glanced at Joe again. \u2018Reckon they\u2019s gone back home ta mourn their dead.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zac gave a chuckle. \u2018Reckon they\u2019ll be right then,\u2019 he said as he drew his knife and ran his finger along the edge of it in a way that made Joe\u2019s blood run cold. \u2018Ya want me ta do it Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem thought for a minute. \u2018Nope,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018We done dragged him this far \u2026 I reckon we should git paid back fer our trouble fore we git rid of him.\u2019\u00a0 He jerked his thumb in Ike\u2019s direction. \u2018Cut him loose,\u2019 he instructed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How come?\u2019 asked Ike as he did as his father bid.\u00a0 He watched casually as Joe hit the ground with a thud as the rope loosened from the branch above. \u2018What ya got in mind Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem gave a chuckle. \u2018I reckon he can jest earn his keep round here,\u2019 he said. \u2018After all, we\u2019ve been feeding him fer a while now and he ain\u2019t done nothing ta earn it.\u2019 He leant forward and stared at Joe as he lay on the ground trying to ease some feeling back into his arms and shoulders. \u2018Have ya pretty boy?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I reckon we got the right ta git some work outta him fore we get rid of him, don\u2019t ya agree boys?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure do,\u2019 said Zac with a sneer and gave Joe a kick. \u2018Get up!\u2019 he said.\u00a0 Joe tried to struggle to his feet, but couldn\u2019t. \u2018I said ta get up!\u2019 shouted Zac. \u2018Do ya hear me Cartwright? Either ya get up or we can end it right here \u2026 your choice.\u2019\u00a0 Joe tried again and managed to make it to his knees this time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tie him to the tree with a long rope,\u2019 said Clem in an easy voice. \u2018Make sure his hands is untied so that he can work though.\u2019\u00a0 He watched as Zac pulled Joe to his feet and untied his hands. Joe groaned softly as the blood rushed back into them for the first time in ages and he closed his eyes as the pain of it hit him.\u00a0 He felt his head pulled back again and the rope pulled tight around his neck as Zac fastened the other end to the tree behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now,\u2019 said Clem with a contented sigh. \u2018Those horses need watering boy. Git to it.\u2019\u00a0 Joe looked at the man and didn\u2019t move. Clem fingered the gun that was in his holster. \u2018Suit yaself,\u2019 he said. \u2018Tend ta the horses or we\u2019ll finish it now boy.\u00a0 It\u2019s all the same ta me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed as he looked into the man\u2019s pale eyes, not for one minute doubting that he meant exactly what he said. If Joe hesitated, then he\u2019d shoot him right here and now and probably leave his body for the buzzards to clean up after they\u2019d gone.\u00a0 With a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach and in his heart he turned towards the horses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stumbled for the tenth time that morning and quickly right himself again with an effort.\u00a0 He had to run for several steps to keep up each time it happened and he reasoned that in doing so he was wasting energy that he couldn\u2019t afford to \u2026 so he kept his eyes on his feet and watched carefully in order to minimize such occurrences.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had been like this for the past two days and he was beginning to wonder just how long it would be before his legs refused to obey his mind when he told them to keep moving. He could slowly feel the will to keep going ebbing away from him, and it was only the fact that he knew that the Hoads were wanting him to give up so that they could shoot him that kept him going. He found himself counting his steps in order to concentrate on them.\u00a0 It was the only way he could hope to keep going \u2026 one step at a time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt another jerk on the rope that was tied around his neck and heard an exclamation from in front. \u2018Ya\u2019d better keep up pretty boy,\u2019 said Ike as he turned in his saddle and stared down at Joe. \u2018We ain\u2019t got all day ta wait fer you!\u2019\u00a0 He grinned down at the youngster behind him. \u2018Iffen ya can\u2019t keep up we can always leave ya here ya know.\u2019\u00a0 He looked around at the desolate landscape. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he mused happily. \u2018I reckon ya\u2019d last bout two hours out here by yaself. \u2018What do ya reckon Zac?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zac laughed. \u2018I\u2019d give him one,\u2019 he said. \u2018At the most.\u2019\u00a0 He took a sip of water from his canteen. \u2018Want a drink Cartwright?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe continued to look at the ground, knowing full well the game they were playing.\u00a0 It was one that they repeated over and over with him at least ten times a day and never seemed to tire of it. If he answered yes they\u2019d refuse and if he answered no they\u2019d laugh and say that was fine.\u00a0 Either way they had no intention of giving him a drink.\u00a0 If he refused to answer they\u2019d kick him until he did and then start over again.\u00a0 So he responded in the only way he could and still maintain what little dignity he still had left. \u2018Go to hell,\u2019 he croaked between his parched lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both Hoads laughed loudly at his remark as they always did. \u2018Suit yaself,\u2019 said Zac gleefully. \u2018Reckon you\u2019ll be there before us though.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to his father who was scanning the distance with his hand up to shield his eyes. \u2018How much further Pa?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Can ya see the mountains yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem pointed. \u2018Over there,\u2019 he said. \u2018We won\u2019t make it before sundown, so I reckon we may as well camp here fer the night.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hear that Cartwright?\u2019 asked Ike as he slid down from the saddle. \u2018Time fer ya ta go ta work.\u00a0 See to them horses first.\u2019\u00a0 He crossed his arms and watched as Joe took hold of the two horses and led them into the shade. \u2018Sure is good ta have help round here ain\u2019t it Zac?\u2019 he said. \u2018Make\u2019s life more pleasant so ta speak don\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure do,\u2019 said Zac with a grin. \u2018Hurry up Cartwright. Git a fire going fore it gets dark.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe stooped to gather some twigs into his arms he surveyed the country around him, looking for any possible means of escape, but with a sinking heart he realised that the Hoads had once again picked a position that would make it very difficult to even contemplate. It was only for short periods of time such as this that the rope around his neck was loosened enough for him to even move around as during the day he had no choice but to follow the horses and all night he was tied to a tree.\u00a0 For a couple of hours each evening he worked for the Hoads in setting up their camp and if they felt generous enough then got to eat and drink their leftovers before being tied up again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he worked, Joe wondered where his family was right at that moment. He wondered if, as the Hoads had implied, had given up on him and considered him dead. Clem had said that given time Joe would indeed wish he was and he wondered how much longer it would take before that were true.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t see himself lasting much longer, as his body was really feeling the effects of too little to eat and drink and the abuse that he\u2019d been forced to endure day after day. The only thought that kept him going was if his family were still out there searching for him.\u00a0 Please God!<\/em> he prayed silently as he began to build up a fire. If they\u2019re coming for me make it quick \u2026 I can\u2019t hold out much longer God \u2026 make them come quick or make it end for me soon.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

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

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa it\u2019s no use,\u2019 said Adam as he pulled his horse up beside his father\u2019s. \u2018We all know that they could have taken a dozen routes into Mexico. We could be searching down here for weeks.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned sharply. \u2018I don\u2019t care if we\u2019re searching for years!\u2019 he retorted. \u2018I\u2019ll stay down here for the rest of my life if I have to in order to get Joseph back from those \u2026. those \u2026.\u2019 words failed him and he fell silent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave Hoss a frustrated look. \u2018That\u2019s not what I meant Pa,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018You know both feel the same as you do. What I meant was that it might be better to go back and send out wires from Virginia City to all the lawmen in these parts to watch out for them.\u00a0 It would be quicker than riding from one town to another the way we\u2019ve been doing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stroked his chin as he thought. \u2018You might be right,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I\u2019m not turning back. We\u2019ll send the wires from a town down here and then keep going.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged his shoulders at Hoss. \u2018All right Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Anything you say.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss scanned the area in front of them. \u2018La Joyita is up ahead,\u2019 he said. \u2018I reckon it\u2019ll be big enough fer a telegraph office.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then La Joyita it is,\u2019 said Ben as he spurred his horse forward. \u2018Hurry up boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As they rode into the town people stopped and stared at them.\u00a0 Ben reasoned that visitors didn\u2019t come through this small community very often and so they must have been a bit of a novelty.\u00a0 He stopped outside a small telegraph office and dismounted. \u2018We\u2019ll send the wires first,\u2019 he said. \u2018And then we\u2019ll keep going west.\u2019\u00a0 He strode over to the door and was about to go through it when he heard an exclamation behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 shouted Adam. \u2018Quick \u2026 over here!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben walked quickly back to join his two sons who were staring into a window of a shop next to the telegraph office. \u2018\u2019What is it?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Look,\u2019 said Adam as he pointed to the window. \u2018That\u2019s Joe\u2019s holster. See?\u00a0 There\u2019s his initials on it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked and his heart lifted as he saw that it was indeed Joseph\u2019s holster. He practically ran through the narrow doorway and over to the window and pulled it out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Please senor!\u2019 said a voice behind him. \u2018Can I help you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned sharply. \u2018Where did you get this?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man behind the counter put up his hands. \u2018Good quality,\u2019 he said with a smile. \u2018You like?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben strode forward and grabbed the man by the collar. \u2018I said where did you get this?\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Answer me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man tried to free himself. \u2018Please senor!\u2019 he said. \u2018I do not know what you mean. It is for sale. You like?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook him. \u2018Answer me!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Answer me or I\u2019ll \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That will do,\u2019 said a voice behind them and the three Cartwrights turned to see a man standing behind them pointing a gun directly at them. \u2018I am the law here,\u2019 he said. \u2018What is going on senor?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I want to know where he got this holster,\u2019 said Ben, loosening his grip on the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man with the gun studied the holster in Ben\u2019s hand and then turned to the shopkeeper and spoke to him at length in Spanish before turning back to the Cartwrights. \u2018He says that it was sold to him by a drifter,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Who?\u2019 asked Ben sharply as he turned back to the man and shook him again. \u2018Tell me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The lawman put his gun away. \u2018Perhaps I can be of service to you,\u2019 he said. \u2018I know the men he is speaking of.\u00a0 I ran them out of our town three days ago.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How many were there?\u2019 asked Adam, stepping forward eagerly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Two.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018Two?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Are you sure there were only two of them?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Si senor,\u2019 replied the Sheriff. \u2018However I am convinced that there were more.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What makes you say that?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018They were causing trouble,\u2019 said the Sheriff obliquely. \u2018They were asking around town for the best way to sell their property.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s that got to do with it?\u2019 asked Ben impatiently. \u2018We need to know how many of them there were!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Sheriff studied him for a moment before replying. \u2018May I ask why?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018They have my son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I have reason to believe that they have kidnapped him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff nodded his head. \u2018I see senor,\u2019 he said. \u2018And would your son be a young man?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Did you see him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff shook his head. \u2018No senor,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I am sure that he was alive at the time the men were here. I believe that there would have been another in their party outside of town holding the young man in question.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What makes ya say that?\u2019 asked Hoss eagerly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018They were asking about selling a young man,\u2019 continued the sheriff. \u2018That is why I ran them out of town. We do not trade in human beings here in our town.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt his heart lurch. \u2018Selling him?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Are you sure that\u2019s what they said?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Si,\u2019 answered the man. \u2018They were after selling him senor.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And you did nothing to find out about where he might be?\u2019 asked Adam, his eyes blazing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff shrugged. \u2018We have a peaceful town here,\u2019 he said. \u2018We do not become involved in such things.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt the adrenaline draining out of him. \u2018Do you know which direction they took?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff nodded. \u2018I rode out and checked their tracks after they had left,\u2019 he said. \u2018To be sure that they had really gone. He pointed west. \u2018Three riders and one walking to the west.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018One walking?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Si senor. If this young man is indeed your son I would advise you to hurry,\u2019 replied the Sheriff. \u2018At this time of year in the heat and on foot he will not get far.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced at his father knowing the thought that was in both their minds. Joe would get just about as far as the Hoads would let him \u2026 and given their probable state of mind that wouldn\u2019t be too far at all. \u2018Come on Pa,\u2019 he said as he placed his hand on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u2018We need to move quickly.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded shortly. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said as if in a daze. \u2018We do.\u2019\u00a0 The three Cartwrights ran from the store without a backward glance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat and watched the Hoads enjoying their supper, hoping that tonight there\u2019d be some leftovers for him. His stomach growled loudly as he smelt the appetising stew that they were scoffing down and he tried to stop his mouth watering visibly. \u2018Mighty nice,\u2019 said Zac as he put another mouthful in. \u2018Tasty \u2026 don\u2019t ya reckon Ike?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zac grinned at his brother before glancing at Joe. \u2018Sure is,\u2019 he said. \u2018Reckon I\u2019ll have some more. Here Cartwright \u2026 fill up this plate again.\u2019 He thrust the empty plate under Joe\u2019s nose and smirked at him. \u2018Hurry up,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stared at the metal plate for a moment before taking it. He willed his mind to think about something other than the food that he spooned onto it to stop himself from grabbing it and shovelling it down his own throat.\u00a0 He\u2019d tried that yesterday and the Hoads were on him immediately, punching him until he lost consciousness.\u00a0 The bruises from his beating were still very painful and he didn\u2019t care to have them added to, no matter how hungry he got.\u00a0 It took all his willpower to hand the plate back to Zac without touching its contents and it was only the thought that there was still more in the pot leftover that gave him the willpower to let go of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike licked his lips and then his fingers as he put down his own plate. \u2018That was good,\u2019 he said. \u2018Ya want some more Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nope,\u2019 said Clem as he lay down and put his hat over his eyes. \u2018I\u2019m gonna get some shut-eye.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good idea,\u2019 said Ike. \u2018Come on Cartwright \u2026 bedtime fer ya too.\u2019\u00a0 He jerked on the rope that was tied around Joe\u2019s neck and hauled him over to the nearest tree. Joe pulled back on the rope as he felt it tightened and Ike looked down at him angrily. \u2018Move!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I haven\u2019t \u2026\u2019\u00a0 Joe licked his lips and tried again. \u2018I haven\u2019t eaten yet,\u2019 he said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ain\u2019t ya?\u2019 asked Ike with a chuckle. \u2018Well how bout that? Cartwright here says he ain\u2019t eaten yet Zac.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zac grinned at his brother. \u2018Really?\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t see how he can eat when there ain\u2019t nothing left.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stared at the man incredulously. \u2018There is,\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s still some in the pot.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zac glanced into the half-full pot. \u2018Nope,\u2019 he said. \u2018Can\u2019t say there is.\u00a0 You see any stew in there Ike?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nope,\u2019 said Ike with a chuckle. \u2018Don\u2019t see none. Reckon there ain\u2019t any left fer ya tonight Cartwright. Pity ain\u2019t it?\u2019\u00a0 Joe pulled on the rope and tried to crawl back towards the pot in desperation, but Ike was too quick for him and pulled him backwards with a force that nearly choked him. \u2018You git back here!\u2019 he said. \u2018Iffen we say there ain\u2019t any stew, then there ain\u2019t!\u2019\u00a0 He pulled the rope even tighter and dragged Joe along the ground towards the tree where he tied him securely before standing over him and giving him a few swift kicks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well what do ya know!\u2019 said Zac suddenly. \u2018There is some stew left after all.\u00a0 Pity we didn\u2019t see it afore you was all tied up, ain\u2019t it Cartwright?\u00a0 Reckon ya missed out on it now.\u2019\u00a0 He laughed as he tilted his hat over his eyes and lay down. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he said. \u2018Sure was mighty fine stew.\u00a0 Pity ya had ta miss out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ike gave Joe another hard kick before walking over to join his brother. \u2018Ya shoulda spoke up iffen ya was hungry pretty boy,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now ya\u2019ll jest haveta go hungry till morning won\u2019t ya?\u2019\u00a0 He lay down to sleep as well and covered himself with a blanket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat propped up against the tree, beating his head in frustration against the trunk as he stared at the three men sleeping. He could still smell the stew in the pot and the thought of it nearly drove him crazy as he listened to his stomach rumble loudly again.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t eaten anything since early that morning and then it had only been a few scraps that Clem had thrown to him \u2026 and he knew that he was likely to get nothing the next morning either.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In spite of himself he lowered his head and felt the tears begin to trickle down his cheeks as he considered his position. In some ways he knew he was lucky to still be alive.\u00a0 It was five days since they had left Mexico and he wondered why the Hoads hadn\u2019t killed him yet.\u00a0 The only reason he could think of was that they enjoyed their taunting of him too much. Yet on the other hand he didn\u2019t know how much more of this he could stand.\u00a0 There was a part of him that willed them to get it over with, but something inside him just fought it and willed him to stay alive.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he thought about it though, Joe didn\u2019t know why he bothered. It had been weeks now and still there was no sign of his family.\u00a0 He knew in his head that it must be true \u2026 they weren\u2019t coming for him or they would have been here by now. His heart was very heavy as he sat there and he wished that he had had the opportunity to say goodbye to his father and brothers before this was all over.\u00a0 He would have given anything at that moment to be held in his father\u2019s arms just one more time before the end.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe closed his eyes and drifted off into a light sleep as he dreamed about his father. If he could have just told him how he felt about him before it was all over \u2026 an image of his Pa came into his mind and he smiled as he felt his light touch on his face. \u2018Pa,\u2019 he said softly in his sleep. \u2018Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m here Joseph,\u2019 said his father. \u2018I\u2019m right here with you boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u2018Pa,\u2019 he repeated in a low voice and opened his eyes reluctantly, not wanting the dream to end. To his surprise he still saw the image of his father\u2019s face in front of his and he smiled up at him as he felt the touch of his hand on his cheek. If only he could have felt it in reality, he thought. Just one more time. He knew exactly what he would say to the man. \u2018I love you Pa,\u2019 he whispered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know you do Joe,\u2019 said his father. \u2018I love you too son.\u00a0 Everything will be all right now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled up at the image in front of him again and his heart lifted.\u00a0 He suddenly felt at peace for the first time since this whole nightmare had begun and he knew now that no matter what the Hoads did to him that he would be able to die in peace now \u2026 for he had said goodbye to his father and was ready.\u00a0 He closed his eyes again and gave a small sigh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A sudden gunshot rang out in the air and he jerked his eyes open again. Another shot rang out and then another and he looked up at the image of his father\u2019s face which still hovered above him. The face smiled at him and he felt the light touch of his father\u2019s hand again. \u2018It\u2019s all right now Joseph,\u2019 the image said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled again as he stared.\u00a0 His father\u2019s image bent down and stroked his hair gently and it was at that moment that reality kicked in with a force that caused Joe\u2019s mouth to drop open.\u00a0 The image in front of him was real \u2026 his father\u2019s touch was real \u2026. and around him \u2026.. he looked around at the three bodies that lay still and then up at the faces of Adam and Hoss beside that of his father. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said incredulously. \u2018Are you real?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course I\u2019m real,\u2019 said Ben as he gave the boy a hug. Joe felt the ropes around him being loosened and he slumped forward into his father\u2019s arms as he felt himself freed from the tree.\u00a0 For a moment he allowed himself to be held in the tightest embrace and he laid his head on his Pa\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 As soon as he felt the man\u2019s grip being loosened a little he drew himself back and began to crawl in desperation towards the pot on the fire.\u00a0 He reached over to it and drew it close, ignoring the burning sensation that shot up his arm from his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019 he heard his father call behind him. \u2018Let go of that!\u2019\u00a0 He felt hands gripping him and pulling the pot away from him and he fought them desperately, trying his hardest to get closer to the pot and its contents.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Let me go!\u2019 he croaked as he fought. He lashed out at the hands that held him and once more grasped the pot, spilling its contents all over the ground in the process.\u00a0 Without hesitation Joe put his mouth to the ground and began to lick up the spilt stew as it dripped out of the pot, watched in amazement by his father and brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019 shouted Ben after a moment. \u2018Stop that!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe ignored his father and continued to slurp up the meat, the juices running down his chin in the process. \u2018I said to stop that!\u2019 shouted Ben as he hauled his son away from the mess on the ground. \u2018You\u2019ll make yourself sick!\u2019\u00a0 Just as he said it, the hot food hit Joe\u2019s empty stomach and he began to retch.\u00a0 Ben held the boy as the food made it\u2019s way up again and spewed out onto the ground in front of him. His heart constricted as he held onto the heaving boy in his arms and he wondered just what tortures he had endured to make him act in this way.\u00a0 It was almost as if he were a starving animal!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up at Adam and Hoss and noticed that they, like him, had tears in their eyes as they watched the boy in Ben\u2019s arms. \u00a0Ben stroked his son\u2019s hair and drew him closer to him as he slowly stopped vomiting and struggling. \u2018Its all right now Joe,\u2019 he murmured softly as he tried to convince himself as well. \u2018Everything will be all right now son \u2026 I promise you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Here,\u2019 said Ben as he lifted Joe\u2019s head off the ground and held the canteen to the boy\u2019s parched lips.\u00a0 \u2018Take it slowly now \u2026 like last time.\u2019\u00a0 Joe looked up into his father\u2019s eyes as he drank slowly, ready to obey him to the letter about whatever he told him to do.\u00a0 At this point if his father had told him to jump off a cliff he would have done it, so grateful he was to have him there beside him.\u00a0 All night the man had sat with him and held onto him as Joe slept fitfully, giving him small sips of water like this and even small tastes of delicious food that had made Joe groan with pleasure. He couldn\u2019t quite believe that his ordeal was over and he felt that if he took his eyes away from his father the man might just disappear \u2026 so he stared at him whenever he had his eyes open with an intensity that made Ben feel somewhat uneasy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s all right Joseph,\u2019 he said for the hundredth time since they\u2019d entered the camp. \u2018Everything is going to be all right now son.\u2019\u00a0 He gently brushed the curls off the youngster\u2019s forehead and smiled down at him and Joe returned the smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice behind his father caused Ben to turn and look over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s getting light,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018You want us to take care of the bodies now?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018Thank you son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked over his father\u2019s shoulder and looked at the three bodies on the other side of the fire. He stared back at his father and gripped onto his arm. \u2018Are they dead?\u2019 he whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled down at his son. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018They\u2019re dead son. They can\u2019t hurt you any more.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s first thought at his father\u2019s words was one of utter relief.\u00a0 He struggled to sit up, but Ben pushed him down again. \u2018Keep still,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just lie down Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe continued to struggle to sit up. \u2018No,\u2019 he whispered. \u2018I gotta \u2026 see \u2026 Pa.\u2019\u00a0 He managed to sit up and watched in silence as Hoss and Adam dragged one body after another away from the camp. As he watched the bodies of his tormentors being dragged past him he couldn\u2019t help but remember what they\u2019d said to him days before and he looked up at his father. \u2018They said I\u2019d be in hell before they was,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018They were wrong.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t think about it Joe. It\u2019s all over with now son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe lay down again and stared up at his father\u2019s face. \u2018I don\u2019t\u00a0 \u2026. feel \u2026 I don\u2019t feel like I thought I would,\u2019 he said in a dazed voice. \u2018I don\u2019t feel \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He shook his head. \u2018I don\u2019t feel happy that they\u2019re dead Pa.\u00a0 I don\u2019t feel anything.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben leant forward until he was close to the boy\u2019s face. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019re still in shock Joe and you just need to take some time to come to terms with all of this son.\u00a0 Try not to think about them now.\u00a0 What you need to do is concentrate on getting well so that we can get you home.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded slowly.\u00a0 He knew his father was right.\u00a0 He desperately wanted to get home and as far away from this nightmare as he possible could \u2026 but there was a part of him that felt \u2026. he didn\u2019t know what he felt.\u00a0 All he knew was that there were three more men dead and he was the cause of it again.\u00a0 He sighed as he closed his eyes. \u2018I\u2019ll get well Pa,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018We need to get home now, don\u2019t we?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We do indeed Joseph,\u2019 said Ben softly. \u2018We do indeed son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018His shoulders and burnt hands are much better today,\u2019 said Dr Paul Martin as he got to the bottom of the stairs. \u2018He told me that he\u2019s not feeling much pain at all in them now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m surprised you got him to say that much,\u2019 said Ben with a sigh. \u2018It\u2019s more than I\u2019ve been able to get out of him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul shrugged. \u2018Sometimes it\u2019s easier to talk to outsiders than your own family,\u2019 he said. \u2018Give him time Ben.\u00a0 He\u2019ll come around eventually.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I certainly hope you\u2019re right,\u2019 replied Ben as he stared into the fireplace. \u2018We\u2019ve been home for nearly a week now and he\u2019s still just like he was when he first found him.\u2019\u00a0 He looked over at his friend. \u2018I know in spite of it all that he blames himself for everything that\u2019s happened.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But that\u2019s just crazy,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018How could he possibly be to blame for the Hoads\u2019 actions.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t as if he wanted them to kidnap him was it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No, of course not.\u00a0 But he does blame himself for them being killed.\u00a0 He thinks that if he hadn\u2019t killed Jeb and Dodie in the first place then none of the rest of it would have happened either.\u00a0 Even though a part of him wanted Clem and his sons dead another part of him didn\u2019t want any more killing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The Hoads are to blame for all of this Ben. They had their fate in their own hands all along.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know that,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018Of course you\u2019re right.\u00a0 I just wish that Joe would come to the same conclusion.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul patted his friend\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Just be gentle with him,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s young Ben and he\u2019ll bounce back in time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018I certainly hope so. Thank you Paul.\u2019\u00a0 He went back to staring into the fireplace as the doctor shut the front door behind him and thought about their trip back to The Ponderosa.\u00a0 Out of necessity it had been a slow and laborious journey, as Joseph hadn\u2019t really been strong enough to go at any great pace.\u00a0 Along the way Ben had gradually come to the realization that what he had told Paul was true.\u00a0 All the killing over the past weeks had weighed heavily upon his son and he had ended up taking the burden of it onto his own young shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In a way Ben could understand why the boy was feeling as he was.\u00a0 It was hard to have so much killing go on around you and not be affected by it in some way, especially at Joe\u2019s age. Ben wasn\u2019t quite sure how to help his son overcome it. Lord knows that he\u2019d tried during the last couple of weeks, but Joe just didn\u2019t seem to want to come out of the depression that he seemed to have locked himself into over it all. Ben sighed and looked at the stairs.\u00a0 It was time to try again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wearily he climbed them and headed for his son\u2019s room.\u00a0 As he had expected, Joe was sitting next to the open window staring out at the sky outside and as his father entered the room he didn\u2019t even bother to turn his head. \u2018Joe?\u2019 said Ben as he sat down next to his son. \u2018Doc Martin\u2019s gone now. He said that he\u2019s quite pleased with you.\u2019\u00a0 Joe nodded his head and said nothing. \u2018How about coming downstairs for a while?\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Adam is working with that new batch of horses and you could watch for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018Not today Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I really don\u2019t feel much like it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben bit his lip. \u2018Well how about coming for a ride with me?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I could do with some fresh air I\u2019d like the company.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head again. \u2018If you don\u2019t mind Pa, I\u2019d rather not,\u2019 he said. \u2018I just feel like resting for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ve been resting a lot up here in your room Joe,\u2019 said his father. \u2018I know that you needed to when we first got home, but I think it\u2019s time you started to come downstairs now.\u2019\u00a0 He watched his son\u2019s face intently, but the boy didn\u2019t react to his words at all. \u2018You need to get out of this room son,\u2019 he said as he put his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father. \u2018Not yet Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I really don\u2019t want to.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe you can\u2019t hide up here forever.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not hiding.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son you are,\u2019 said his father. \u2018You feel responsible for the deaths of those men and you shouldn\u2019t.\u00a0 You can\u2019t \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018If it wasn\u2019t for me they\u2019d all be alive,\u2019 said Joe in a low voice.\u00a0 Ben waited. \u2018Five Pa,\u2019 continued the boy. \u2018I\u2019m not talking about one man dead \u2026 there are five of them dead and all because of me.\u2019\u00a0 He hesitated. \u2018I hated Clem and Ike and Zac \u2026 I really did \u2026 and in a way I\u2019m not sorry that they\u2019re dead.\u00a0 But Jeb and Dodie \u2026 if I hadn\u2019t acted like I did then they\u2019d all be alive and none of this would have happened. There would have been no reason for the Hoads to take me away in the first place and none of us would have had to go through this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph I\u2019ve said this to you before. You can\u2019t erase the past son.\u00a0 You have to just go on from here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 sighed Joe. He smiled at his father. \u2018Maybe I will come down for a bit,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019d like to see those new horses.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s the spirit,\u2019 said Ben slapping him on the back. \u2018Let\u2019s go down.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Later that afternoon as he watched his son, Ben wasn\u2019t so sure that it had been such a good idea to coax Joe out of his room.\u00a0 The boy had spent the entire afternoon sitting on the corral fence watching his brother and some of the hands put the new horses through their paces, but it was the way he had done it that made Ben feel anxious.\u00a0 He watched as if he wasn\u2019t really seeing them \u2026 as if they weren\u2019t even there.\u00a0 Normally Joe would have been itching to try one of the animals himself and would have pestered Adam about it until his brother gave in and allowed him to try, but this afternoon he hadn\u2019t even asked. In fact he\u2019d actually declined to ride when Adam had offered to let him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No thanks,\u2019 Ben heard him say. \u2018Maybe another time.\u2019 He hadn\u2019t even urged the men on either.\u00a0 He watched as if they were apart from him \u2026 as if he was removed from them all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That night at supper Ben tried desperately to draw Joe into the conversation and spark some animation into him, but it was very hard going. \u2018All of you did well with the horses this afternoon Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t you think so Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What? Oh \u2026 yeah.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched his brother intently. \u2018Thanks,\u2019 he said. \u2018Maybe you could take a couple of them on tomorrow Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Maybe,\u2019 he said in a flat voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tell ya what shortshanks,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018How about you and me going fishing tomorrow?\u00a0 Sure do feel like catching me a big trout or two.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah sure,\u2019 said Joe in the same flat tone. \u2018Whatever you want Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged at his father and shook his head. Ben sighed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How was the fishing boys?\u2019 asked Ben as Hoss and Joe came through the front doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine,\u2019 said Joe as he put his hat on the credenza near the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Did you catch anything?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I did,\u2019 said Hoss with a shake of his head at his father behind Joe\u2019s back. He headed off towards the kitchen. \u2018I\u2019ll give em ta Hop Sing ta get ready for supper.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph come over here and sit down,\u2019 said his father. \u2018There\u2019s something I need to talk to you about son.\u2019 Joe sat down next to his father. \u2018We had some visitors this afternoon Joe,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah?\u2019 Joe sounded not the least bit interested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It was Willow and Bud.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head jerked up. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018What were they doing here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018They wanted to know if they could camp back at their old site,\u2019 replied his father \u2018They want to take me up on that offer of land after all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What? How come?\u00a0 I mean \u2026 all of them?\u00a0 Was Grandma Hoad with them?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he replied. \u2018She and the others are still aiming to settle in California.\u00a0 It was just Willow and Bud.\u00a0 It seems that Grandma Hoad finally gave them permission to get married.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled. \u2018That\u2019s good,\u2019 he said. \u2018That will make Willow happy.\u2019\u00a0 He hesitated. \u2018I\u2019m surprised that they wanted to come back here though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well you know Pa.\u00a0 With everything that\u2019s happened.\u00a0 With everything that \u2026 I did.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018If you\u2019re referring to what happened to Clem and his sons, well of course I filled them in on the whole story,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father fearfully. \u2018And they still wanted to stay near us?\u2019 he said. \u2018They weren\u2019t angry?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled at him. \u2018No they weren\u2019t angry,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I find that real hard to believe Pa,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well why don\u2019t you go and ask them yourself?\u2019 replied his father. \u2018You know where their camp site is.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t think so. I reckon I\u2019ll just leave them alone for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat forward in his chair. \u2018Joe you have to face them at some stage,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019re all going to be neighbours now after all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe bit his lip as he thought about it. \u2018I guess you\u2019re right,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019d best get it over with.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled as he watched the boy walk to the front door. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he called.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned. \u2018Yeah Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded at him. \u2018It\u2019ll be fine son.\u00a0 You\u2019ll see.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded, obviously not convinced, as he left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe!\u00a0 Little Joe!\u2019 Willow waved at Joe as he rode into the camp.\u00a0 She put down the bucket she had been carrying and ran towards him excitedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe dismounted and walked towards the girl. \u2018Hi willow,\u2019 he said. \u2018Pa told me that you were back.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow grinned at him. \u2018Did he tell ya that we\u2019s gonna be neighbours Joe?\u2019 she asked excitedly. \u2018Me and Bud got married and we\u2019s gonna settle down here on that piece of land ya Pa done give us.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said. \u2018He told me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow frowned. \u2018We ya ain\u2019t looking none too pleased bout it.\u00a0 What\u2019s the matter Joe?\u2019 She sidled up next to him. \u2018Is it bout what happened tween you and Uncle Clem and his boys?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave her a sideways glance. \u2018I reckon so,\u2019 he said. \u2018Willow I\u2019m so sorry all of this had to happen.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The girl nodded her head in agreement. \u2018So am I,\u2019 she said. \u2018It musta been awful fer ya Joe. I know how evil Uncle Clem could be and I can imagine how he musta treated ya.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave her a puzzled look. \u2018That\u2019s not what I meant,\u2019 he said. \u2018I mean \u2026 yes it was awful \u2026 no one will ever know just how bad \u2026 but \u2026\u2019\u00a0 his voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But what?\u2019 Now it was Willow\u2019s turn to look puzzled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well \u2026 if it wasn\u2019t for me then none of this would have happened,\u2019 finished Joe. \u2018I killed two men and then three more got killed because of it.\u00a0 Not to mention everything that my family had to go through \u2026 as well as myself of course. I don\u2019t blame you if you hate me now Willow.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow put her hand on his arm. \u2018Hate ya?\u00a0 Why on earth would I hate ya Joe?\u00a0 Why I\u2019m grateful to ya!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Course I am. Why you were the one what done showed me what a real family can be like.\u00a0 You done did things fer me and showed me things that made me realise that I could have a better life.\u2019\u00a0 A determined look came into her eyes. \u2018And I\u2019m gonna too!\u2019 she declared. \u2018Bud and me are gonna have a good life here.\u00a0 I done told Grandma Hoad and she give us her blessing ta come back and settle here.\u00a0 No I don\u2019t hate ya Joe \u2026 I\u2019m grateful to ya iffen the truth be known.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But I killed your Pa and your uncle,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I done buried my hatred along with em,\u2019 said Willow. \u2018I done it before, but Uncle Clem coming along jest stirred things up agin. Now that he and the others is gone I can be free of em. Truly Joe .. They was pure evil and deserved ta die.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t gonna shed no tears over em now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt as if a heavy weight had been lifted form his shoulders.\u00a0 He gave Willow a genuine smile and drew a sigh of relief. \u2018How about Grandma Hoad,\u2019 he asked. \u2018How does she feel about it all?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow pursed her lips. \u2018I dunno fer sure,\u2019 she said. \u2018But I reckon she\u2019ll come around in time.\u00a0 She done give us permission ta come back and that counts fer something don\u2019t ya think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon so,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Maybe she\u2019ll come back and visit someday?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Maybe,\u2019 said Willow. \u2018Until then Bud and me we\u2019s gonna git ourselves set up here and git settled. Do ya reckon we\u2019ll fit in given time?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon so,\u2019 said Joe with a grin. \u2018And you can be sure that my family will help you in any way that we can.\u2019 He gave a short laugh. \u2018It\u2019s nice to know that I don\u2019t have to tie you up this time to get you to stay isn\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Willow laughed as well. \u2018Sure is,\u2019 she said. \u2018And ya can tell that brother Hoss of yourn that we won\u2019t be needing that bath contraption of his any more neither.\u2019\u00a0 The two young people\u2019s laughter rang out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So you see Pa I began to think that Willow was right,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben lifted an eyebrow. \u2018She only told you what your brothers and I have been trying to get through to you during these past few weeks,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded \u2018I know,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018But it was different hearing it from her.\u2019\u00a0 He thought for a moment. \u2018I guess because she was their kin. It was kind of like she was giving me permission to forgive myself. Does that make sense?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted him on the shoulder. \u2018It makes a whole lot of sense son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m just glad that you finally saw the truth for what it was.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said. \u2018I guess Willow helped me do that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well from what you\u2019ve told me she\u2019s mighty grateful to you as well, so I suppose you might say that you come out even in all of this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I suppose so,\u2019 said Joe as he stood up. \u2018Well I\u2019d better go and help Adam with those horses Pa.\u00a0 He was looking as though he needed my expert guidance the last time I checked out what they were up to out there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d watch that mouth of yours if I were you son,\u2019 warned Ben. \u2018Adam is likely to dump you in the water trough if he hears you talking like that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned at his father. I\u2019ve been there a time or two before,\u2019 he said. \u2018It ain\u2019t like it would be a totally new experience for me after all.\u2019\u00a0 He hesitated at the front door before opening it. \u2018Hey Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Do you reckon it would be all right if I took some time before getting back to work full time?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I suppose so.\u00a0 Why?\u00a0 What do you have in mind to do?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019d like to help Willow and Bud get organised on their land,\u2019 his son replied. \u2018They\u2019re gonna need ta get a cabin started before Winter sets in.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think that would be real fine Joe,\u2019 said his father. \u2018I have a feeling they\u2019re going to be mighty fine neighbours.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think so too,\u2019 said Joe as he shut the door behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0A Hillbilly family seeks revenge after Joe kills two of their members. A WHN story for ‘The Spitfire’<\/p>\n

Rated: T (19,990 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":15172,"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_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23,1008,61,13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1964","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-missing-scene","category-whn","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-61-id","wpcat-13-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1694,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/The-Spitfire.png?fit=741%2C477&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":756,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=756","url_meta":{"origin":1964,"position":0},"title":"I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes (by Claire)","author":"Claire","date":"April 18, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0An interlude by Lake Tahoe Rated: K (670 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe.png?fit=682%2C453&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe.png?fit=682%2C453&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe.png?fit=682%2C453&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":15647,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15647","url_meta":{"origin":1964,"position":1},"title":"Courage (by Hart4Ben)","author":"Hart4Ben","date":"January 13, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Little Joe is still wrestling with his fears. WHN for Season 6 Between Heaven and Earth. Rating: K+ Word Count: 589","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/Joecourage.png?fit=424%2C352&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":12104,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12104","url_meta":{"origin":1964,"position":2},"title":"A Tale of Two Feathers (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"October 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Part One of four.\u00a0\u00a0 Joe learns that compassion and understanding are the footnotes to love; and that love can destroy the hate in a man's heart, give renewal to a man's spirit as it binds two unlikely souls in a most unusual friendship between a young man and a\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/indian.jpg?fit=1192%2C765&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/indian.jpg?fit=1192%2C765&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/indian.jpg?fit=1192%2C765&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/indian.jpg?fit=1192%2C765&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/indian.jpg?fit=1192%2C765&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":3627,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3627","url_meta":{"origin":1964,"position":3},"title":"It Isn’t Easy to Be the Youngest (by heike)","author":"heike","date":"August 26, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 It isn't easy for Jamie, to find his place in his new family.\u00a0And for\u00a0Joe\u00a0the role of an older brother is new, too. Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 WC \u00a02700","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe-and-Jamie.jpg?fit=300%2C225&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":2162,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2162","url_meta":{"origin":1964,"position":4},"title":"Shelter (by pony)","author":"pony","date":"December 8, 2009","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0\u00a0Adam and Joe Cartwright are lost in a blizzard. Their only hope ... shelter. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K (1,390 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":40868,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=40868","url_meta":{"origin":1964,"position":5},"title":"Family Again? (by Lisa Orcutt)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"March 27, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A father's 'blindness' to the past tore the family apart. 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