{"id":1968,"date":"2011-09-07T11:00:06","date_gmt":"2011-09-07T15:00:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1968"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:25:12","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:25:12","slug":"the-dentist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1968","title":{"rendered":"The Dentist (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>A traveling dentist visits town<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K (11,710 words)<\/p>\n

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

Dr Paul Martin stopped and looked in amazement at the wagon as it proceeded slowly down the street. He whistled softly under his breath and leant against a pole as he stared. \u2018Well I\u2019ll be!\u2019 he said softly and shook his head in disbelief. \u2018Never thought I\u2019d see that here in our town!\u2019<\/p>\n

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He turned sharply as he felt a grip on his shoulder. \u2018See what?\u2019 a voice behind him said and he turned to see Adam Cartwright standing behind him, grinning widely. \u2018See what?\u2019 Adam repeated.<\/p>\n

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Paul pointed to the wagon as it passed them.\u00a0 It was being driven by a thin man with a greying moustache who was tipping his hat to the many people who had stopped to look at his wagon and Adam could see at a glance why he was attracting so much attention.\u00a0 From the back of the wagon a pole was extended and from it hung a very large replica of \u2026 Adam squinted in the sunlight to make out exactly what it was. \u2018A\u2026 A tooth?\u2019 he said in disbelief.<\/p>\n

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Paul nodded as the wagon rumbled on up the street. \u2018Yes, a tooth,\u2019 he said as he tipped his hat back. \u2018Well I\u2019ll be.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam frowned at him. \u2018Is this what I think it is?\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t tell me we\u2019ve got a travelling oral surgeon in our town.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Paul smiled at him. \u2018Could be,\u2019 he said. \u2018Although the common name for them now is dentists I believe.\u2019 He shook his head again. \u2018Either this is one of them or he\u2019s just one of those many travelling charlatans who make out as if they are something they\u2019re not. Hard to tell really.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam frowned even further. \u2018Well if he is a fake, then someone should warn everyone around here,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019d say you\u2019d be the best one to do that Paul.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Paul raised his eyebrows at Adam. \u2018Why me?\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m no dentist.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018No, but you\u2019re a medical man and people respect you,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018And you must admit you\u2019ve done a bit of oral surgery when you\u2019ve had to.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Exactly,\u2019 replied Paul. \u2018The operative phrase being \u2018had to\u2019 of course. No Adam, I\u2019m no dentist and if this man is, then good luck to him.\u00a0 Mark my words he\u2019ll probably set up shop somewhere from that wagon of his and we\u2019ll probably begin to hear very quickly if he\u2019s any good. After all, people around here haven\u2019t ever had access to anything like this before and they\u2019ll probably flock to him for treatment.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Now it was Adam\u2019s turn to raise his eyebrows. \u2018You really think so?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I doubt it.\u00a0 No offence Paul, but you must know that anyone who looks after some part of the body and causes pain isn\u2019t exactly popular anywhere.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Paul gave a short laugh. \u2018No?\u2019 he teased. \u2018So that\u2019s why I sometimes feel a bit slighted by everyone around here.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam slapped the doctor on the shoulder. \u2018I\u2019m going to listen to what he has to say,\u2019 he said. \u2018Coming?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Paul shook his head. \u2018No, I\u2019ve got patients to see. You go along and let me know what happens.\u00a0 Good luck.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam tipped his hat at the man and stepped off the sidewalk to follow the crowds that were trailing after the wagon and it\u2019s large bobbing tooth that could still be seen even at this distance. \u2018Well I\u2019ll be!\u2019 said Paul Martin again as he turned to walk away.<\/p>\n

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Adam walked the length of Main Street before he noticed that the wagon had pulled up at the far end of town and the man stood up. \u2018Come closer my friends!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Come and listen to what the wonders of modern science can do for the fair people of Virginia City.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam stayed on the edge of the crowd and watched the man as he put both of his arms up in a dramatic gesture and beckoned to the increasing crowd him.\u00a0 He put his hand up to still the noise and then spoke over the hush that developed. \u2018Ladies and Gentlemen,\u2019 he said. \u2018You are witnessing one of the wonders of modern science. I am here to give you a service, the like of which many of you will never have experienced before!\u00a0 I present to you the wonders of the science of dentistry!\u2019<\/p>\n

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The man pointed to the crowd. \u2018How many of you have put up with the nagging pain of toothache?\u00a0 How many of you have experience the mind-numbing pain of having a tooth pulled?\u2019\u00a0 Adam could hear a shudder go through the crowd at the man\u2019s words. \u2018I am here to tell you that all that is a thing of the past.\u2019<\/p>\n

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A man in the crowd made a sarcastic comment and everyone laughed. The man in the wagon glared at him as he pointed at him. \u2018I see you need convincing my friend,\u2019 he said. \u2018Then I invite you to come along tonight to hear the wonders that I have to offer you.\u2019\u00a0 He pulled out a large poster and held it up for everyone to see. Adam craned his neck to get a look over the man in front of him and noticed that it had a picture of a large tooth on it and some writing underneath. \u2018Tonight\u2026\u2019 he heard the man continue. \u20188 pm on this very spot you will be enthralled at the ideas you hear.\u00a0 Remember my friends!\u2019 he shouted as the crowd began to disperse. \u20188 pm tonight and you will be amazed at what I have to tell you!\u2019<\/p>\n

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The crowd gradually drifted away but Adam remained where he was, watching the man roll up his poster and sit back down again.\u00a0 His curiosity got the better of him and as soon as everyone had left he approached the man in the wagon.<\/p>\n

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\u2018That was quite a speech,\u2019 he said as he tipped his hat.<\/p>\n

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The man looked at him. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 he said. \u2018I hope you\u2019ll be back tonight to hear what I have to say.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam shrugged his shoulders. \u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 he said. \u2018Something tells me I might have heard a lot of it before.\u2019<\/p>\n

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The man looked him up and down before speaking.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t quite sure what to make of this well-dressed and obviously intelligent young man who gave him such an appraising stare. \u2018You\u2019re familiar with the field of Dentistry?\u2019 he asked after a moment.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Not really,\u2019 Adam replied. \u2018But I am familiar with the field of frauds who are out to make a quick dollar.\u2019<\/p>\n

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The man frowned. \u2018I should take offence at that remark sir, but I won\u2019t,\u2019 he said. \u2018I can see that you are an intelligent young man and I urge you to come tonight to find out for yourself that what I have to say is totally genuine.\u2019\u00a0 Adam raised an eyebrow, but didn\u2019t look convinced. \u2018I have studied with men of distinction in this field in New York and Boston,\u2019 continued the man. \u2018Amos White is the name and I can assure you that I am no fraud.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam looked surprised. \u2018Boston?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes,\u2019 replied the man. \u2018Among other places. I studied at the \u2018Baltimore College of Dental Surgery\u2019 with some of the great men in this field.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam\u2019s expression changed immediately. \u2018Really?\u2019 he said. \u2018I attended College in Boston a few years ago. Maybe I ran across some of the men you\u2019re speaking about?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Amos White hesitated for a moment. \u2018I doubt it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Although there was one demonstration at Harvard that I attended you might have heard about.\u00a0 It was conducted by a truly great man in this field. Mr Horace Wells and his partner Mr William Morton.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam took an involuntary step backwards and went pale. He was silent for a few moments before replying. \u2018No\u2026 he said. \u2018No I don\u2019t think\u2026\u2019\u00a0 He tipped his hat. \u2018Well, good day Mr White.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Don\u2019t forget!\u2019 the man called after him. \u20188 pm tonight! I hope to see you here!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam didn\u2019t reply, but walked swiftly up the street in the direction he had come from.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Adam?\u2019 said his father, looking across at his eldest son. \u2018Why so quiet tonight?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam looked up from his plate. \u2018Huh? Oh, no reason Pa. I was just thinking about something that\u2019s all.\u2019 Ben gave his son an appraising stare and then concentrated on his meal again. He looked up as Adam spoke.\u00a0 \u2018I thought I might go into town tonight for a while,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m going too!\u2019 said Little Joe in a flash.<\/p>\n

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Ben glared at his youngest son. \u2018You are doing nothing of the kind,\u2019 he said shortly.<\/p>\n

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\u2018But Adam gets to go whenever he likes,\u2019 said Joe indignantly. \u2018That\u2019s not fair.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Adam is not sixteen years old, that\u2019s why,\u2019 said his father. \u2018Now be quiet please.\u2019 Joe gave his father a sulky look and said nothing. \u2018Why tonight Adam?\u2019 asked Ben. \u2018You don\u2019t normally go into town on a week night.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018There\u2019s something I want to take a look at,\u2019 said Adam casually. \u2018A visitor was in town today and I want to hear what he has to say in a session he\u2019s holding tonight.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Me too!\u2019 said Joe, excited at the prospect of a new visitor in town. \u2018Can I come Adam?\u2019 He quickly slunk back in his chair as his father gave him one of his stern looks.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Who\u2019s the visitor?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

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\u2018A man by the name of Amos White,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018He\u2019s from back East and he\u2019s holding a session tonight.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018A session?\u2019 asked Ben. \u2018A session about what?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Oral surgery,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

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Both Joe and Hoss put their heads up at their brother\u2019s words and stared at him.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What\u2019s oral surgery?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Dentistry,\u2019 said Adam. Joe looked none the wiser at his brother\u2019s explanation, so Adam continued. \u2018He\u2019s a dentist.\u00a0 He examines people\u2019s teeth.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe glanced at Hoss and noticed that his brother gulped. \u2018Why?\u2019 Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

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\u2018A dentist checks people\u2019s teeth to make sure that they\u2019re sound,\u2019 explained his brother. \u2018And when they\u2019re not, he either fixes them or extracts them if he can\u2019t.\u2019 Hoss looked horrified, but said nothing as he bent his head and began to eat again.<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s disgusting!\u2019 declared Little Joe. \u2018He should be put in jail for something like that!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Joseph be quiet,\u2019 said his father sternly. \u2018You don\u2019t know what you\u2019re talking about!\u2019\u00a0 He turned to Adam again. \u2018I believe that Dentistry is quite the thing back East,\u2019 he said. \u2018There are even a few of these Dentists springing up in San Francisco.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018So I believe,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

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Ben looked thoughtful. \u2018Is this man genuine?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018That\u2019s why I thought I\u2019d go in and hear what he has to say. I must admit he mentioned a couple of names from back East that I know are genuine though.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Really?\u2019 asked his father \u2018Who?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam shrugged casually. \u2018Just a couple of men I\u2019d heard about,\u2019 he said. \u2018I attended a demonstration they gave once at Harvard.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018What did they do?\u2019 asked Little Joe, intrigued. \u2018Did they pull out someone\u2019s teeth?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss went pale and laid his cheek on his hand. \u2018Stop it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Can\u2019t we change the subject?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam glanced at his brother. \u2018I take it you don\u2019t want to come in with me then?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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\u2018No way!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018You can have that sorta thing on ya own older brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019ll come!\u2019 said Little Joe with a gleam in his eye. \u2018I\u2019d like to see it!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019ve told you you\u2019re going nowhere tonight,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

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Adam paused for a moment. \u2018Well to be honest Pa, I don\u2019t mind taking Joe with me for once,\u2019 he said. \u2018I think it might be educational for him to hear what this Mr White has to say.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Ya hear that Pa?\u2019 said Little Joe delightedly. \u2018Adam says it\u2019d be educational for me!\u2019 He glanced at his father triumphantly.<\/p>\n

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Ben hesitated.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t often that Adam was willing to have his younger brother hanging around him in town and he figured he must really be keen about this session if he was happy to take Little Joe along with him. \u2018How long will it go for?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018But I\u2019ll make sure he\u2019s not too late home to bed.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You make me sound like I\u2019m a kid!\u2019 declared Joe indignantly and Adam and Ben merely looked at him silently.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well all right then,\u2019 said Ben finally. \u2018I don\u2019t see any harm in it.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to Joe. \u2018But you behave yourself for your brother Joseph or this will be the last time you get to town this month.\u00a0 Understand?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes sir,\u2019 said Joe happily and stood up. \u2018Can we go now Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019d like to finish eating first,\u2019 said Adam sarcastically. \u2018If its not too much trouble for you to wait of course.\u2019 Joe said nothing, but sat down again, anxious not to antagonise his brother and make him change his mind about taking him.<\/p>\n

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\u2018So what was the demonstration about that you attended in Boston?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Nothing much,\u2019 said Adam evasively. \u2018It didn\u2019t amount to anything.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben studied his son for a moment and noticed how pale he\u2019d become at his father\u2019s words. \u2018Are you all right son?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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Adam stood up. \u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018Come on Joe. \u2018Let\u2019s get going.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Bye Pa!\u2019 Joe grinned at his father. \u2018Bye Hoss. I\u2019ll tell ya all about it later.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Don\u2019t bother!\u2019 said Hoss shortly. He made a face and put his hand to his cheek.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What\u2019s the matter son?\u2019 asked Ben quickly.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Nuthin,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m gonna go and check on the horses.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben shook his head as the front door banged for the second time in as many minutes. \u2018Well at least I\u2019ll have a quiet night now,\u2019 he said softly as he lifted his coffee cup.<\/p>\n

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\u2018There it is,\u2019 said Little Joe excitedly. \u2018Where all them people are!\u2019\u00a0 He bounced in his saddle and turned to face Adam who was riding sedately beside him. \u2018Come on Adam\u2026 hurry up!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Just settle down,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018We\u2019ve got plenty of time. We\u2019ll tie our horses up here.\u2019\u00a0 He dismounted and tied hi horse to a tree and waited while Joe did the same. \u2018Come on,\u2019 he said as he made his way over to the edge of the crowd. Joe followed his older brother as Adam made his way through the crowd and found two seats half towards the front. The two Cartwrights sat down and Joe turned to watch everyone around them, tipping his hat to several people he knew while he did so.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Will you sit still?\u2019 hissed Adam. \u2018There\u2019s no need to bounce around on your seat like that for heavens sake.\u2019\u00a0 Joe opened his mouth to make a smart retort to his brother, but at that moment the crowd hushed as Amos White stepped in front of them carrying a small table, which he placed beside him.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What\u2019s on the table?\u2019 asked Little Joe, craning his neck to see. \u2018I can\u2019t see it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sit still,\u2019 hissed Adam again and pulled his younger brother backwards in his chair. \u2018Just be quiet and you\u2019ll hear.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Friends!\u2019 shouted Amos. \u2018Thank you for coming tonight.\u00a0 You are in for a rare treat I promise you.\u00a0 Never before will you have witnessed what you are about to see friends.\u00a0 I promise you that you will be truly amazed at what you are going to witness tonight!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Little Joe looked at Adam excitedly. \u2018It sounds great don\u2019t it Adam?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Adam shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Mmm,\u2019 he said, watching the man in front of them closely.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I am about to explain to you one of the wonders of modern science,\u2019 continued Amos.\u00a0 Here on this table is a new wonder drug\u2026. Citizens of Virginia City, I give to you\u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He picked up a small bottle from the table and held it over his head dramatically. \u2018I give to you the new wonder drug\u2026. Nitrous Oxide!\u2019<\/p>\n

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The crowd gasped at the man\u2019s words and everyone sat forward to get a closer look. Little Joe turned to Adam. \u2018What\u2019s it do?\u2019 he asked. Adam put his finger on his lip. \u2018Just be quiet and listen,\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

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\u2018This small bottle holds the future to pain relief!\u2019 declared the man as he continued to hold the bottle aloft. \u2018Here is your opportunity to experience firsthand the wonders of this new drug.\u2019<\/p>\n

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What\u2019s it do?\u2019 yelled someone from the audience.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m glad you asked,\u2019 said Amos. \u2018Nitrous Oxide has an extraordinary power my friends.\u00a0 By using this wonder drug I have the ability to perform painful and often dangerous oral procedures on my patients without a twinge of the pain that they would usually experience.\u00a0 All performed while the patient is fully awake!\u2019<\/p>\n

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The crowd gasped again and Joe turned to Adam with wide eyes. \u2018He don\u2019t mean it!\u2019 he said. \u2018How could he do that?\u2019\u00a0 Adam said nothing, but continued to listen to the man intently.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes friends,\u2019 continued Amos, \u2018Not a twinge of pain is felt by the patient.\u2019\u00a0 He held up a rubber mask, which was attached to a rubber hose. \u2018Using this device the Nitrous Oxide is applied to the patient and completely numbs the area which I will then proceed to work on.\u2019\u00a0 He looked around the audience. \u2018Who amongst you is afflicted by the dreaded toothache?\u2019\u00a0 Several hands went up and Joe looked around excitedly. \u2018Who amongst you would be willing to show your courage and test this wonder drug right here and now in front of everyone?\u2019\u00a0 Every hand went down quickly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos frowned. \u2018Come now,\u2019 he urged. \u2018Surely there is one amongst you who is brave enough to show everyone just how effective this miracle of science can be?\u2019\u00a0 No one moved or said a word. \u2018I myself have felt its effect,\u2019 continued Amos.\u00a0 He beckoned to a man sitting in the front row. \u2018Good man, please take a look and tell everyone what you see right here in my mouth.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man looked and turned to face the audience. \u2018He\u2019s got a silver filling in his tooth,\u2019 he said loudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And it was put there without me feeling one bit of pain,\u2019 urged Amos. \u2018Now who will come up for a free filling and show everyone how it can be done?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a hushed silence over the crowd and no one moved. Joe leant over to Adam and whispered in his ear. \u2018No one\u2019s gonna do it!\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t blame em do you?\u2019\u00a0 Adam shook his head as he continued to stare at Amos.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos began to look frustrated. \u2018All right citizens,\u2019 he said at last. \u2018I can understand your reluctance to take my word for it. How about I offer a free test of this wonder drug without drilling a tooth with my ratchet wrench?\u2019 He held up the instrument for everyone to see and several people gasped at the sight of it. \u2018How about I offer a free scraping to clean the teeth of the first volunteer?\u00a0 There will be no pain I can s assure you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s a scraping mean?\u2019 asked a man in the second row.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It means that I simply sue this small instrument here,\u2019 said Amos, holing up a small metal instrument that looked rather like a sharp spoon. \u2018And I scrape your teeth clean. There is no pain involved I can assure you.\u00a0 And by using the Nitrous Oxide I will prove my point that nothing at all, the least little scraping of your teeth, will even be felt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll do it!\u2019 said the man. \u2018I\u2019ll be anything iffen it\u2019s free!\u2019\u00a0 He leapt up onto the stage, sat on the chair that Amos had placed there and grinned at the audience. \u2018Let\u2019s get started,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos pushed the man back in the chair and began to attach the end of the rubber tube to the top of the bottle of Nitrous Oxide. \u2018Now just relax,\u2019 he said. \u2018Breathe deeply and slowly.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Every eye was fixated on the man in front of them who sat very still, doing as Amos had told him.\u00a0 After a few moments, Amos removed the rubber mask and said, \u2018How do you feel?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man grinned around at the audience again. \u2018Fine,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 He put his hand up to touch his mouth. \u2018Hey!\u2019 he exclaimed. \u2018I can\u2019t feel nothing!\u2019\u00a0 He began to look worried as Amos pushed him back in the chair again and forced his mouth open.\u00a0 He brandished the instrument in his hand around for the audience to see and then bent over the man and began to work.\u00a0 For a full three minutes not a sound could be heard as the dentist worked and by the time he had straightened up again everyone could feel the tenseness in the air. \u2018Sit up my good man,\u2019 said Amos loudly. \u2018Sit up and tell us how you feel.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man sat up, looking amazed. \u2018How ya started yet?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I didn\u2019t feel a thing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a stunned silence for a moment and then everyone burst into spontaneous applause. Joe clapped loudly and looked across at Adam, amazed. \u2018Holy Toledo Adam did ya see that?\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Ain\u2019t it amazing?\u2019\u00a0 Adam said nothing, but stared straight ahead of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos bowed deeply to the audience and put on an air of modesty. \u2018Friends!\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019ve seen it with your own eyes now. I want you to tell all your friends that Amos White is available for consultations right here beginning tomorrow morning.\u00a0 Remember\u2026 Nitrous Oxide the wonder drug will change your life if you are willing to give it a try!\u2019\u00a0 With that he turned and disappeared into his wagon with a flourish, leaving everyone cheering and clapping their hands as they walked away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wow!\u2019 said Joe as he sprang to his feet. \u2018Wait till Pa and Hoss hear about this!\u2019\u00a0 He pulled Adam to his feet. \u2018Let\u2019s get home and tell em about it eh Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pulled his brother\u2019s hands off him. \u2018Just settle down,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But don\u2019t ya think it was exciting?\u2019 asked Joe as they walked back towards their horses. \u2018That man couldn\u2019t feel a thing!\u00a0 I reckon it was one of them miracles.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hmm,\u2019 said Adam with a frown. \u2018I wouldn\u2019t call it that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the matter with you?\u2019 asked Joe as they mounted up. \u2018You saw it too.\u00a0 Don\u2019t ya believe it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I believe what I see proven by science,\u2019 said Adam shortly. \u2018And I\u2019m still not convinced.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But he couldn\u2019t feel anything,\u2019 insisted Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So he says,\u2019 replied his brother. \u2018How do you know he wasn\u2019t a plant in the audience?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t thought about that. \u2018He looked genuine to me,\u2019 he said at last. \u2018I don\u2019t reckon he was faking it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam said nothing, but simply turned his horse towards the edge of town and trotted away, leaving Joe to follow him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You shoulda seen it Pa,\u2019 said Joe excitedly as soon as the two brothers got through the front door. \u2018It was like one of them miracles.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up from his newspaper. \u2018Really?\u2019 he said, amused at his son\u2019s obvious enthusiasm. \u2018What happened?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe perched himself on the coffee table in front of his father and began talking excitedly. \u2018His name is Amos White and he\u2019s got this new wonder drug. That\u2019s what he called it anyways.\u00a0 It makes ya get no pain when he starts doing that dental stuff in ya mouth.\u00a0 There was a man what volunteered and he didn\u2019t feel nothing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Really?\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Did he pull one of his teeth out?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shuddered. \u2018No!\u2019 he said. \u2018Tweren\u2019t nothing like that.\u00a0 He \u2026\u2019 Joe looked at his brother. \u2018What did he call it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He scraped his teeth,\u2019 said Adam as he sat down. \u2018To clean them.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah he scraped em,\u2019 continued Joe. \u2018He used this mask thing over his face and he put this new wonder drug in it.\u00a0 It\u2019s called\u2026\u2019 he looked at Adam again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nitrous Oxide,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018And the man didn\u2019t even know he\u2019d done what he done till it was all over,\u2019 he finished with a flourish.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Really?\u2019 said Ben for a third time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned to Adam. \u2018What did you think son?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam raised an eyebrow as he sat back in his chair. \u2018To be honest Pa, I don\u2019t really know.\u00a0 He seemed genuine enough, but\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But?\u2019 Ben prompted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh I don\u2019t know,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018It just seems \u2026 well\u2026 I don\u2019t know.\u2019\u00a0 He stood up. \u2018I think I\u2019ll go up to bed. Night.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good night, son,\u2019 said Ben, turning back to his paper again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think I\u2019ll go up and tell Hoss about it,\u2019 said Joe as he stood up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss is asleep,\u2019 said his father. \u2018Tell him about it in the morning Joseph.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Asleep?\u2019 said Joe, glancing at the clock. \u2018But it\u2019s only early.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t think your brother is feeling too well,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018Leave him alone and tell him about it in the morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018OK,\u2019 said Joe and sat down again. \u2018I\u2019ll just stay down here with you for a bit then.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put his newspaper down and stared at his son. \u2018Good night Joseph,\u2019 he said meaningfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed and stood up again. \u2018Night Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben grinned as he picked up the paper again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Adam felt as if there was a heavy object on his chest which made it difficult to breathe.\u00a0 He turned his head to see what it was, but discovered that he couldn\u2019t even manage that much movement.\u00a0 In fact his whole body seemed to be beyond his control.\u00a0 His legs felt heavy and he was unable to move his arms at all\u2026 not even the slightest movement of his fingers. <\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

He opened his eyes to see Amos White standing in front of him with a huge grin on his face. \u2018Just relax now,\u2019 the man said as he leant towards him. \u2018Just relax and let me do what I have to.\u00a0 You won\u2019t feel a thing.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched in horror as Amos held up a sharp knife-like instrument in front of him and brought it forward to show him.\u00a0 He could see the sun glinting on the blade and he swallowed at the thought of the sharp metal cutting inside his mouth.\u00a0 He tried to turn his head away from the instrument, but Amos had him in a vice-like grip as he forced his mouth open. <\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 cried Adam as he felt the knife slicing into his gum. \u2018No! Stop it!\u00a0 No!\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam opened his eyes to see his father\u2019s face in front of him. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he cried out. He blinked a couple of times and tried to focus his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam?\u2019 said his father again. \u2018Are you all right son?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head slightly. \u2018I think so,\u2019 he said. \u2018What happened?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat down on the edge of his son\u2019s bed. \u2018You had a bad dream,\u2019 he said. \u2018I heard you calling out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat up in the bed. \u2018It\u2019s usually Joe who does that isn\u2019t it?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and smiled at his son. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018It sure is unusual for me to have to come in here in the middle of the night.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rubbed his temple. \u2018Sorry I woke you,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s all right.\u00a0 I was up anyway,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Hoss was moaning in his sleep as well.\u00a0 It seems that Little Joe is the only one getting a good night\u2019s rest tonight.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss? What\u2019s wrong with him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018He wasn\u2019t too well earlier this evening.\u00a0 Do you want to talk about your dream?\u2019 Adam continued to rub his temples silently. \u2018It might help,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I dreamt I was sitting in a dentist\u2019s chair,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Stupid really \u2026 brought on by Amos White\u2019s demonstration probably.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018No doubt,\u2019 he said and waited.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It brought back\u2026 memories\u2026 that\u2019s all,\u2019 continued Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Memories?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam lay down and stared up at the ceiling. \u2018In Boston,\u2019 he said. \u2018When I was in College.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You said you went to a demonstration one day,\u2019 prompted Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said shortly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You want to tell me about it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018There\u2019s not much to tell really,\u2019 replied his son. \u2018I only went because a friend of mine asked me to.\u00a0 He thought it sounded interesting and he didn\u2019t want to go alone.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well we went to this lecture by a man named Horace Wells. He and his partner William Morton were from the \u2018American Society of Dental Surgeons\u2019 and they were giving a lecture on Nitrous Oxide to the medical students there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The same drug that this man White is using?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u00a0 Anyway they had a man inhale the drug just like White did tonight. Apparently though, Wells didn\u2019t administer enough of it before they began to pull his tooth out.\u2019\u00a0 Adam shuddered. \u2018I can still hear his screams after all these years,\u2019 he said. He looked at his father. \u2018Stupid really, because I heard that later on they did another demonstration that went perfectly well.\u00a0 Wells and Morton have been hailed as the new leaders in dentistry during the past few years.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And today\u2019s demonstration brought back the memory of it,\u2019 he said. \u2018That would have been enough to bring on your dream.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I suppose so,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I remember Grandfather insisting I have my teeth checked by an oral surgeon while I was staying with him in Boston at the time and they were fine.\u00a0 I\u2019ve never had to go through any dental work, so I don\u2019t know why I\u2019d suddenly be worrying about it now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted him on the shoulder. \u2018Well let\u2019s hope you never do,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s not a very pleasant experience at the best of times. Hopefully though this Nitrous Oxide will help to improve things.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018If it\u2019s used properly,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood up. \u2018You try and get some sleep now son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll go and check on Hoss before I turn in again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Good night,\u2019 said Adam as he rolled over to face the wall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Night son,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018Pleasant dreams,\u2019 he said with a smile as he closed the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It was great!\u2019 said Little Joe for the tenth time. \u2018Ya shoulda seen it Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced over at Hoss who didn\u2019t look at all impressed by his younger brother\u2019s words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s enough now Joe,\u2019 his father said. \u2018You\u2019ve told us all about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Three times,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glared at his brother. \u2018Well, it was interesting,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not enough to hear it over and over again,\u2019 said Adam as he glanced over at his middle brother. \u2018What\u2019s wrong with you Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nuthin,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Why won\u2019t everyone leave me alone?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked surprised at his brother\u2019s words, as it wasn\u2019t like Hoss to be grumpy. \u2018I was just asking,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well don\u2019t,\u2019 replied Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at his middle son. \u2018Aren\u2019t you hungry son?\u2019 he asked.\u00a0 Adam and Little Joe looked up at their father\u2019s words. It was definitely not like Hoss to be off his feed at any <\/em>time!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m hungry enough,\u2019 said Hoss shortly. \u2018Leave me be Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben continued to watch his middle son out of the corner of his eye and noticed that he was merely pushing his food around his plate\u2026 a sign that something was definitely wrong. \u2018Perhaps you need to see Doc Martin,\u2019 he suggested. \u2018If you\u2019re not feeling well that is.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t need to see no doctor,\u2019 said Hoss as he got up from the table. \u2018I\u2019m going to work.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone flinched as the front door slammed. \u2018Well that was out of character,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t care what he says,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018There\u2019s something wrong with him and I aim to get to the bottom of it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Little Joe. \u2018He\u2019s gone all moody and taking it out on all of us.\u00a0 That ain\u2019t fair!\u2019 Ben and Adam stared at the boy. \u2018What?\u2019 said Joe defensively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s just strange hearing those words coming from you for a change,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Never mind,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Let\u2019s get to work boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss sat on the upturned barrel in the barn and unscrewed the top of the small bottle in his hand. \u00a0He dipped his finger into the clear liquid inside it and then stuck it into his mouth, sucking on it noisily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What ya doing Hoss?\u2019 asked a cheeky voice behind him and he nearly fell off the chair in his fright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t ya ever sneak up on me like that again Joe or I\u2019m gonna pound ya!\u2019 he said angrily as soon as he\u2019d taken his finger out of his mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe made a face and sat down beside his brother. \u2018What\u2019s in the bottle?\u2019 he asked, trying to snatch it away from Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nuthin,\u2019 said Hoss grumpily. \u2018Mind ya own business!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his brother suspiciously. \u2018Why\u2019d ya put some of that stuff in ya mouth?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss cuffed his little brother over the head. \u2018I told ya it\u2019s none of ya business,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now quit going on about it.\u2019 He made a face and put his hand up to his cheek briefly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe narrowed his eyes as he looked at his brother. \u2018Are ya sick?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Pa said you was and I reckon he\u2019s right.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t sick! Now stop going on about it will ya!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Ain\u2019t you got work ta do?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Joe, but didn\u2019t budge.\u00a0 He glanced at the bottle in his brother\u2019s hand again. \u2018Oil of\u2026 What\u2019s that say on the label?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss put his hand over the label of the bottle. \u2018Do ya want me ta pound ya little brother?\u2019 he said threateningly. \u2018Ain\u2019t it enough that I\u2019m feeling like this without you going on about it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then you are sick!\u2019 said Joe triumphantly. \u2018I knew ya was!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glared at him. \u2018Shut up!\u2019 he said. \u2018Stop going on about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa says he\u2019s gonna make you go to Doc Martin,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Maybe ya should iffen you don\u2019t feel good Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss sighed. \u2018He\u2019d do me no good,\u2019 he said. He put his hand to his cheek again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly the light dawned in Joe\u2019s eyes. \u2018You got a toothache ain\u2019t ya?\u2019 he said. \u2018That\u2019s what\u2019s wrong with you ain\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Shut up!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I don\u2019t want Pa to know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t want Pa to know what?\u2019 said a voice behind them and Hoss jumped a second time. He turned to see Adam standing in the doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nuthin,\u2019 he said sullenly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss\u2019 got a toothache,\u2019 said Joe and ducked as Hoss leant out to hit him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned and took the bottle from Hoss\u2019 hand. \u2018What\u2019s this?\u2019 he said. \u2018Oil of Cloves?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hop Sing gave it to me,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018He says it works.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It sure does,\u2019 said a voice from behind them and Hoss jumped for a third time. He gulped as he saw their father standing in the doorway behind Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Uh\u2026 Hi Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his eyebrows at his son before replying. \u2018We used to use Oil of Cloves a lot for this young man here when he was teething. Don\u2019t you remember?\u2019\u00a0 He pointed to Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Me?\u2019 squeaked Joe. \u2018What\u2019d I need that for?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You would have screamed the house down otherwise,\u2019 said his father, taking the bottle and looking intently at the label. \u2018Your mother used to rub it on your gums to stop the pain.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s a numbing agent,\u2019 explained Adam. \u2018It was the only way any of us could get any sleep with you bellowing all night.\u00a0 I remember it well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Paul Martin said you had strong gums and the teeth found it hard to break through,\u2019 said his father. \u2018You had a hard time of it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And let everyone know it,\u2019 said Adam dryly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Weren\u2019t my fault!\u2019 said Little Joe defensively. \u2018I couldn\u2019t help it iffen I was only a baby!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at Hoss. \u2018When did this start?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018A couple of days ago,\u2019 admitted Hoss with a shrug. \u2018This stuff helps though.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure it\u2019ll be OK.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why didn\u2019t you tell me?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I thought ya might make me go to that dentist feller that Adam and Joe have been talking about,\u2019 explained Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hey that\u2019s a great idea!\u2019 said Little Joe, jumping up excitedly. \u2018How bout ya go and try that wonder drug he\u2019s got Hoss?\u00a0 I\u2019d like to see it work again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t going to no dentist just so you can check out some stupid drug,\u2019 said Hoss crossly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It ain\u2019t stupid!\u2019 declared Little Joe. \u2018It works, don\u2019t it Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam just shrugged and said nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well drug or not,\u2019 said Ben, \u2018you really should go and see Paul Martin about that tooth Hoss.\u2019 He looked thoughtful for a moment. \u2018Maybe it wouldn\u2019t be such a bad idea to consult this Amos White feller as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t going ta see no dentist!\u2019 declared Hoss as he stood up. \u2018Hop Sing\u2019s medicine will do me just fine!\u2019\u00a0 He stomped out of the barn, leaving his father and brothers staring after him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well seems to me he\u2019s being right selfish!\u2019 declared Little Joe. \u2018It\u2019d be great to see that wonder drug work again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his little brother a dark look and shook his head as he followed Hoss out of the barn. \u2018What\u2019d I say?\u2019 asked Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stared at his youngest son for a moment in disbelief. \u2018Sometimes you amaze me Joseph,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned back at his father. \u2018Thanks Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head and walked out of the barn after Adam. Little Joe began to whistle a tune softly as he walked over to pat his horse in his stall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I didn\u2019t know that you were in town.\u2019\u00a0 Ben turned to see Sheriff Roy Coffee standing next to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh \u2026 hello Roy,\u2019 he said. \u2018I was going to call in and see you before I left.\u00a0 How are things?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not too bad,\u2019 said Roy indicating the street in front of them. \u2018Considering the doings around here lately.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You mean that dentist feller?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah.\u00a0 I figured we might have been in for some problems with him around, but he don\u2019t seem to have stirred any up,\u2019 replied the Sheriff. \u2018Things have been calm so far.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why did you think there\u2019d be problems?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well people tend ta get riled up whenever a traveller comes along,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018You remember that rain maker feller last year don\u2019t ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I sure do\u2026 but surely this Amos White isn\u2019t like him?\u2019 said Ben. \u2018He\u2019s a man of science isn\u2019t he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy snorted. \u2018Well I wouldn\u2019t go so far as to call him that,\u2019 he said. \u2018Some folks around here think he\u2019s a plain con man to tell the truth.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then they\u2019d be wrong,\u2019 said a voice behind them and they turned to see Doctor Paul Martin standing there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Paul,\u2019 said Ben, holding out his hand. \u2018So you think he\u2019s genuine?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I do indeed,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018I wasn\u2019t sure at first, but after watching him in action for the past few days I\u2019m sure he has a lot to offer this town. He seems to know what he\u2019s on about.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his eyebrows.\u00a0 \u2018I thought as much,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 \u2018After talking to Adam he seemed to sound genuine.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It seems that he had the chance to watch a demonstration on the use of this Nitrous Oxide when he was in Boston some years ago.\u00a0 Even though the demonstration didn\u2019t work at the time apparently it\u2019s the coming thing in the field of dentistry so I believe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul nodded. \u2018It certainly is,\u2019 he said. \u2018Everything this White man has been saying is accurate. I only wish someone would let him test his theory here.\u00a0 It sure would save everyone a lot of pain.\u2019 Ben looked puzzled, so Paul continued. \u2018He\u2019s had lots of patients already, but so far no one has been willing to try out the new \u2018wonder drug\u2019 as he terms it.\u00a0 They\u2019re all lining up for treatment in the old-fashioned way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben made a face as he visualised some of the treatments that people were subjecting themselves to. \u2018Well I might just have another patient for him,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Really?\u2019 said Roy. \u2018Who?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018He\u2019s been going around with a toothache for days now and won\u2019t do anything about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well if you could convince him to try out this Nitrous Oxide it sure would help around here,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018If a Cartwright tried it I\u2019m sure that many others would follow.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018I don\u2019t think so,\u2019 he said. \u2018Even if I do persuade him to come in for treatment I doubt that he\u2019ll agree to using it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul slapped his friend on the back. \u2018Well try,\u2019 he said. \u2018It sure would make a difference around here.\u2019\u00a0 He tipped his hat at both men. \u2018Well I\u2019ve got patients to see gentlemen,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll see you both later.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Roy watched the Doctor cross the street. \u2018Well I\u2019d better be going too,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018Come and see me next time you\u2019re in town Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018I will,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hopefully it\u2019ll be soon if I can talk Hoss into it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss you really can\u2019t go on like this,\u2019 said Adam as he sat down next to his brother. \u2018Your tooth is getting worse.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ain\u2019t nothing I can\u2019t handle,\u2019 said Hoss as he stroked his cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t see why you\u2019re resisting this when you\u2019ve got the perfect opportunity to see a dentist right here in town,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gave his brother a scowl. \u2018Ya don\u2019t?\u2019 he said. \u2018Aw come on Adam!\u00a0 As if you\u2019d be running in there I you was me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u2018True,\u2019 he said. \u2018But you really do need to do something about it\u2026 you know you do!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was silent for a moment before replying. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018Its just\u2026.\u2019 He looked around to see if anyone else was nearby. \u2018I\u2019m just scared\u2026. You know?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018And that\u2019s only natural. But with this drug that Amos White has\u2026 well you wouldn\u2019t feel a thing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How do ya know that?\u2019 replied his brother. \u2018No one\u2019s tried it yet and I don\u2019t aim ta be the first!\u00a0 No siree! Iffen I go to him, I\u2019m doing things the old fashioned way!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged again. \u2018Well you know what that means don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shuddered. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018That\u2019s why I don\u2019t aim ta go.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his hand on his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018I know how you feel Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018But\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t ya even say it Adam,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I ain\u2019t going!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was silence for a few moments as the two brothers sat side by side. Adam glanced at his younger brother and saw the little boy that he\u2019d known all those years ago.\u00a0 The little boy that he\u2019d always protected and looked after.\u00a0 He remembered the many times that Hoss had come to him when Pa hadn\u2019t been available and the times he\u2019d tried to help him through his many problems. He remembered Hoss\u2019 mother Inger who had felt so much like a mother to him as well.\u00a0\u00a0 His heart went out to his big little brother who was sitting there in so much pain and he ached to be able to fix things for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tell you what,\u2019 he said. \u2018How about if I go in with you?\u00a0 I\u2019ll get my teeth checked as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gave him a surprised look. \u2018Really?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Adam quickly before he could change his mind. \u2018Really.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned at him. \u2018Ya\u2019d do that fer me Adam?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018If it make you feel better, yes,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018If he says I need any work done then I\u2019ll have it done while we\u2019re both there.\u2019\u00a0 He shut his eyes for a moment, trying to appear calm, even though the very thought of what he was offering scared him witless.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss put his arm around his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Gee thanks Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018I reckon I can stand it if you can.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his brother a weak smile. \u2018Let\u2019s hope we both can,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s very good of you son to offer that for your brother,\u2019 said Ben, patting Adam on the arm. He looked at his eldest son and noticed how pale he was, guessing how much it was taking for him to go through with this.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon!\u2019 said Little Joe happily. \u2018Now I\u2019ll get ta see that wonder drug again!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll see nothing of the kind,\u2019 said Adam crossly. \u2018Hoss isn\u2019t going to use it.\u00a0 He\u2019s going to have things done the old fashioned way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe pulled a face. \u2018Aw gee!!\u2019 he said. \u2018That ain\u2019t fair!\u00a0 Can\u2019t ya use it Hoss so I can see it again?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 said Hoss shortly. \u2018Now quit ya yabbering Joe.\u00a0 You ain\u2019t gonna be there anyways!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father pleadingly. \u2018Can\u2019t I go too Pa?\u2019 he whined. \u2018I wanna be there to see.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled at his youngest son. \u2018You may certainly go Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018I think it would be a very good thing for you to be there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Hoss will be nervous enough without him along!\u2019\u00a0 He pointed his finger at Little Joe who was giving everyone a smug look at his father\u2019s words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh I don\u2019t know,\u2019 said Ben slowly. \u2018I think Joseph could really benefit from going to see this dentist.\u00a0 If you two boys are willing to see him, then I think a check up would be quite in order for Joseph as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The colour drained from Joe\u2019s face and the smirk turned to an appalled look. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018You ain\u2019t serious!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I most certainly am,\u2019 said his father calmly. \u2018You\u2019ve never had a check up from a dentist, so I think it\u2019s about time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe tapped his teeth. \u2018But my teeth are all good!\u2019 he said. \u2018I ain\u2019t got nothing wrong with em!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well let\u2019s just hope that we keep them that way,\u2019 said his father. \u2018We\u2019ll have this Amos White make that judgement, shall we?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed and then turned to Hoss. \u2018Well thanks a lot!\u2019 he said. \u2018If it weren\u2019t for you and your toothache this wouldn\u2019t be happening.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss scowled at his little brother. \u2018Don\u2019t blame me,\u2019 he said. \u2018I didn\u2019t get this toothache just ta spite you, ya know!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe continued to scowl at his brother.\u00a0 \u2018I thought you said that this dentist thing would be a good thing for Hoss to do?\u2019 said Adam sarcastically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Little Joe. \u2018For Hoss \u2026 Not me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s enough,\u2019 Ben interrupted. \u2018The three of you will get your teeth looked over by this man and that\u2019s all there is to it. It\u2019s an ideal opportunity to have them checked and I think it\u2019s important to make the most of it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m glad you think that way Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018So you\u2019ll be joining us then?\u2019\u00a0 He gave his father a meaningful look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked startled. \u2018I wasn\u2019t planning to,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018If you really believe it\u2019s a good opportunity then you don\u2019t want to waste it do you?\u00a0 I would think that you\u2019d welcome the chance to show us how it\u2019s done.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben narrowed his eyes and gave his eldest son a long stare, but Adam held his gaze with a smile. \u2018Well\u2026 said Ben after a moment. \u2018I\u2019ve had check ups at a dentist before\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Many years ago,\u2019 interrupted Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And at my age\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Its even more important,\u2019 interrupted Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben narrowed his eyes even more and continued to stare at his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah Pa,\u2019 Little Joe piped up. \u2018You wanna be a good example to us don\u2019t ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave a slight sigh. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018I fully intended to visit this man myself.\u00a0 We\u2019ll all go in tomorrow.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his father a wide smile. \u2018I thought you might see it that way,\u2019 he said, ignoring the look his father gave him in return.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat bolt upright in bed and tried to contain his breathing. He took several deep breaths and closed his eyes momentarily as he tried to block out the vision of the sharp instrument that had hung over his face so menacingly in the dream. \u2018Damn!\u2019 he cursed under his breath. \u2018How stupid!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He rubbed his face with his hands and scowled at the wall opposite as he cursed himself inwardly for his weakness.\u00a0 Normally he took everything in his stride, so why was it that he felt this way about one trip to the dentist?\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t figure out what had him so agitated.\u00a0 After all, it wasn\u2019t as if he\u2019d ever had a bad experience getting his teeth checked before and the only thing he could possibly put it down do was that stupid lecture he\u2019d been to back in Boston all those years ago.\u00a0 He cursed the friend who had taken him there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam lay down again and looked at the ceiling.\u00a0 He prayed that he wouldn\u2019t weaken tomorrow in front of his brothers, as he felt that he really needed to stay his usual calm and in-control self at all costs. He fervently wished that he could get it over with at that very moment, before he had the opportunity to weaken in his resolve even more, and the prayer in his heart as he drifted off to sleep again was one to ask God for courage to face what the new day would bring.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The ride into town the next morning was a very quiet one.\u00a0 Ben noticed that all three of his sons seemed to be preoccupied with their own thoughts and he supposed that was natural.\u00a0 After all, a trip to the dentist was a difficult thing, particularly if you knew that there was something to be done.\u00a0 He stole a glace at Hoss who was slumped over in his saddle.\u00a0 \u2018Are you all right son?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gave his father a dejected look. \u2018Good as I could be considering,\u2019 he said mournfully. \u2018I ain\u2019t looking forward to him pulling this tooth out though Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave his son a pat on the back. \u2018You don\u2019t know that it has to be pulled out,\u2019 he said soothingly. \u2018Maybe it won\u2019t need to be.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss merely shrugged and said nothing, but his look told his father clearly that he didn\u2019t believe him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly Little Joe stopped his horse and sat looking at his father defiantly. \u2018Well I ain\u2019t going!\u2019 he declared. \u2018I don\u2019t need to and you can\u2019t make me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019 roared Ben. \u2018That is enough of your nonsense! Get moving immediately young man if you value your life!\u2019\u00a0 He pointed along the trail towards town in a meaningful way and tried to suppress a grin as Little Joe scowled at him and started to move his horse again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had expected a mutiny from his youngest son at some point, but he really hadn\u2019t thought it would be so soon.\u00a0 Considering the boy didn\u2019t even like getting his haircut, he figured that a visit to the dentist would be enough to really make him react very negatively and he simply wasn\u2019t prepared to stand for it.\u00a0 He took up a position just behind the boy\u2019s horse in case he decided to make a break for it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stole a glance at Adam who was now riding beside him and noted once again his son\u2019s pale face and withdrawn demeanour.\u00a0 He knew just how difficult this was for Adam and admired just what he prepared to do for his brother, and his heart went out to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben leant over towards his son and touched him briefly on the shoulder. \u2018It\u2019ll be all right son,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018I\u2019m sure it will.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his father a weak smile and glanced over to see if the others were listening. \u2018Sure Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s OK to feel anxious,\u2019 continued Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged his father\u2019s hand away. \u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 he said tersely.\u00a0 Ben dropped his hand immediately, knowing full well his eldest son\u2019s aversion to showing his emotions too much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The four Cartwrights trotted along in silence towards their fate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

==========<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As they dismounted from their horses, Ben was surprised to see that the area around the dentist\u2019s wagon was deserted, for from what Roy Coffee had told him he had expected to see quite a few people there. He took hold of Little Joe\u2019s arm firmly and strode over to the wagon, followed by Adam and Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hello!\u2019 he called. \u2018Is anyone here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos White\u2019s head immediately poked out from the back of the wagon. \u2018Hello,\u2019 he said with a smile. \u2018What can I do for you gentlemen?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We\u2019ve come for some dentistry work,\u2019 said Ben firmly. \u2018My three sons here.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated his three boys behind him with his thumb.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos\u2019 head disappeared and within seconds he had climbed out of the wagon and was standing before them. He glanced over at Adam. \u2018Well here\u2019s a young man I\u2019ve seen before,\u2019 he said amiably.\u00a0 \u2018Decided to see for yourself if my wonder drug is effective after all have you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head and licked his lips. \u2018No,\u2019 he said shortly, hoping that he sounded confident and calm. \u2018We\u2019ve just come for a check up that\u2019s all.\u00a0 All except my brother here.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos looked at Hoss who was in obvious pain. \u2018Toothache?\u2019 he asked sympathetically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded, continuing to hold onto his cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well come and sit down,\u2019 said Amos, indicating a chair. \u2018I\u2019ll have you fixed up in no time young man.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018Uh uh,\u2019 he said. \u2018My brother Adam is going first.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They all looked at Adam, who drew a deep breath before stepping forward and sitting on the chair. \u2018There\u2019s nothing wrong with my teeth,\u2019 he assured the dentist. \u2018Just cleaning them up will be fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll be the judge of that,\u2019 said Amos as he motioned for the others to sit down. \u2018Let\u2019s have a look shall we?\u2019\u00a0 He pushed Adam back in the chair and Ben noticed that his son\u2019s hands went white at the knuckles as he held onto the arms of the chair in what seemed like a death grip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos picked up a small metal instrument and approached Adam with it. \u2018Now just lean back and close your eyes,\u2019 he said. \u2018This will only take a few minutes. He held onto Adam\u2019s jaw firmly and forced his mouth open as he bent over him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the next few minutes all that could be heard was the scraping of the metal instrument.\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s eyes widened as he watched the man work methodically around his brother\u2019s mouth and he swallowed several times nervously as he thought about taking his own turn soon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a while, Amos stood up again and handed Adam a cup of water. \u2018Swallow a mouthful of that,\u2019 he said, wiping the instrument on a cloth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took a welcome swallow of the water and then looked up at the man. \u2018Well?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just as you thought,\u2019 said Amos pleasantly. \u2018They\u2019re in fine shape.\u00a0 I\u2019ve just cleaned them up a bit for you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam let out the breath he\u2019d been holding and smiled at the man. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 he said, trying to sound casual.\u00a0 He stood up and grinned at the others. \u2018Nothing to it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Your turn Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe shook his head firmly. \u2018No way,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hoss said he was going after you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They all looked at Hoss who blanched at his brother\u2019s words. \u2018Oh Lordy!\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted his son on the arm. \u2018Best to get it over with Hoss,\u2019 he said soothingly. \u2018Come on now son, you can do it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll be fine Hoss,\u2019 said Adam, the colour back in his face again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood up slowly and made his way over to the chair as if in a daze.\u00a0 He sat down heavily, leant back and gripped the sides of the chair and closed his eyes. \u2018Hurry up and look,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos bent over him and forced his mouth open.\u00a0 For a couple of minutes there was silence and then suddenly Hoss jumped. \u2018Ow!\u2019 he said. \u2018That hurt!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not surprised,\u2019 said Amos. \u2018That\u2019s a decayed tooth you have there young man.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at the dentist pleadingly. \u2018Do ya have ta pull it out?\u2019 he asked fearfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018Not if you\u2019re willing to have it filled. It\u2019s not really bad enough to come out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss smiled over at his father. \u2018Ya hear that Pa?\u2019 he said. \u2018It don\u2019t have ta get pulled out!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I told you so,\u2019 said Ben happily and then turned to Amos. \u2018What will you fill it with?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Silver,\u2019 said the dentist with a chuckle. \u2018We\u2019re certainly in the right place for that, aren\u2019t we?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone smiled at his joke except for Hoss. He was watching the man pick up a small tool that looked like a tiny ratchet wrench. \u2018What are ya gonna do with that?\u2019 he asked fearfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I need to scrape out the decayed part before I can fill it,\u2019 explained Amos. \u2018Now if you\u2019d let me use the Nitrous Oxide I have you wouldn\u2019t feel a thing.\u00a0 How about it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018No way!\u2019 he declared. \u2018You ain\u2019t using any of that new-fangled stuff on me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos shook his head. \u2018This is just the reaction I\u2019ve been getting from everyone around here,\u2019 he said. \u2018If only someone would give it a go\u2026 then others might follow.\u2019\u00a0 He shook his head. \u2018Oh well\u2026 I\u2019ve done all that I can to try and convince people.\u00a0 If you enjoy pain young man its your choice.\u2019\u00a0 He bent over Hoss with the ratchet tool in his hand. \u2018Open up widely please.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed and gave his father a pleading look, then closed his eyes and opened his mouth widely.\u00a0 Little Joe scrunched up his face and closed his eyes, his heart pounding wildly as he listened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly, Hoss gave a yell.\u00a0 \u2018No!\u2019 he cried. \u2018Stop it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos White stepped back from him. \u2018I\u2019m sorry,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hold still and it won\u2019t take long.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ve changed my mind.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood up and went to stand next to his son. \u2018Now now Hoss,\u2019 he said soothingly. \u2018Hold on to me son and let Mr White do what he has to. It\u2019ll be all over in a few minutes.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at his father. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018I mean that I\u2019ve changed my mind about using that drug stuff.\u00a0 I can\u2019t stand the pain Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018Are you sure son?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said. \u2018Anything\u2019s got ta be better than that!\u2019\u00a0 He indicated the instrument in Amos\u2019 hand. \u2018Hurry up and get it over with before I change my mind.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos grinned at him and began to fiddle with a rubber mask and tube, attaching it to a small bottle of white liquid.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes!\u2019 Ben heard Little Joe\u2019s voice behind him and turned to frown at his youngest son who immediately closed his mouth and gave his father an innocent look.\u00a0 Ben held onto Hoss\u2019 hand while Amos put the mask over it and Hoss breathed deeply for a minute or so. Adam sat forward, watching intently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now just sit back and again and relax to let the drug take effect,\u2019 said Amos as he removed the mask. \u2018That\u2019s it\u2026 just relax.\u2019 Hoss looked up at the man, his face showing his concern. \u2018Now open your mouth,\u2019 said Amos.\u00a0 You won\u2019t feel a thing I promise you.\u2019 Hoss gripped Ben\u2019s hand tightly, but did as he was told.\u00a0 Amos bent over him again with the ratchet tool and began to work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a full three minutes there wasn\u2019t a sound as everyone watched Hoss for a reaction.\u00a0 To their surprise there was none. Suddenly, Amos stood up and handed Hoss a cup of water. \u2018Rinse out with that while I prepare the silver filling,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss took a gulp of water and grinned around at everyone, surprised to see that a crowd had formed around them. \u2018It didn\u2019t hurt a bit!\u2019 he announced and everyone started to cheer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hooray for Hoss Cartwright!\u2019 shouted a man at the back of the crowd.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben slapped his son on the back. \u2018Well done Hoss,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tried to look modest. \u2018Aw shucks!\u00a0 Twern\u2019t nothing Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I knew all along that it\u2019d work.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a general burst of applause at his words and people started jostling each other in their eagerness to get a closer look. What\u2019s happening?\u2019 asked a man from the back of the crowd.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss Cartwright just tried that new drug and says it works!\u2019 called someone else. \u2018I\u2019m going next!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hold on there,\u2019 said Amos, holding up his hand. \u2018I haven\u2019t finished with this patient yet.\u2019 If everyone comes back in half an hour I\u2019ll make some more appointments then.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The crowd drifted away, everyone talking about Hoss\u2019 bravery.\u00a0 Little Joe grinned as he heard it. \u2018That\u2019s my brother,\u2019 he said to a few men as they passed him. \u2018I was the one told him ta try it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now then Hoss,\u2019 said Amos as he bent over the big man again. \u2018This should just take a minute.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Go to it,\u2019 said Hoss as he leant back happily. \u2018I\u2019m happy fer ya to finish up now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In two minutes, Hoss was out of the chair, showing Little Joe and Adam his new silver filling. \u2018Don\u2019t bite on it for at least a day,\u2019 said Amos as he wiped his instruments off. \u2018Give it time to set.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure thing,\u2019 said Hoss happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos stretched out his hand. \u2018Thank you Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018Thank you very much for having the courage to try the Nitrous Oxide.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tried to look modest. \u2018Aw shucks,\u2019 he said. \u2018Tweren\u2019t nothing really. I\u2019m known fer my bravery round here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave him a slap on the back. \u2018Well brother it\u2019s all over\u2026\u2019\u00a0 he looked over at Little Joe. \u2018For most of us anyway.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe looked away from his brothers and stared down the street. \u2018I think I see someone down there waving to me,\u2019 he said as he stood up. \u2018I think I\u2019ll just go and see who it is.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be back in a few minutes.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his little brother by the right arm and Hoss grabbed him by the left as they steered him towards the chair. \u2018Oh no you don\u2019t little brother,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018If we did it, then so can you.\u00a0 Sit down!\u2019\u00a0 They plonked him unceremoniously in the chair and held onto him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 said Little Joe, giving his father his best pleading look. \u2018Pa!\u00a0 I told you my teeth are fine.\u00a0 They don\u2019t need anything doing to em\u2026 honest!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now Joseph,\u2019 said Ben soothingly as he patted the boy on the back. \u2018Your brothers did just fine and so will you.\u00a0 Sit back son and just relax while Mr White takes a look at you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe gave the man a dark look and tried to struggle up out of the chair. \u2018No!\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m fine\u2026 really I am.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos White picked up his metal instrument again. \u2018Now then Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Open wide and let me have a look.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 yelled Joe, struggling against his brothers\u2019 grip, but to no avail. \u2018Let me go! Leave me alone!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No one took any notice of him.\u00a0 Adam and Hoss held onto him tightly as Amos forced his mouth open and Ben patted him on the back and made soothing noises. \u00a0Joe closed his eyes and screwed up his face as he felt the scrape of metal against his teeth, not even able to move enough to turn his head away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After several minutes, Amos stood up again. \u2018Hmm,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s that mean?\u2019 asked Joe, looking at the man suspiciously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos scratched his head for a moment and stared at the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well?\u2019 asked Ben. \u2018Is there anything wrong?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No not really,\u2019 said Amos.\u00a0 He has fine strong teeth.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe grinned. \u2018I knew it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now let me go!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just a minute,\u2019 said Amos, holding up his hand. \u2018His teeth are fine\u2026 the ones that he has anyway.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What do you mean \u2026 the ones he has?\u2019 asked Ben, puzzled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well his wisdom teeth are beginning to come down,\u2019 said Amos. \u2018I think he might have some trouble with them when they do.\u00a0 His gums are very strong.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s what the doctor said when he was teething as a baby,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018He had an awful time with them then.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019ll probably have quite a bit of trouble with them in the next few months,\u2019 said Amos.\u00a0 \u2018Many children of his age do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t no child!\u2019 declared Little Joe. \u2018Let me go!\u2019\u00a0 Adam and Hoss merely smiled at him and Hoss patted him on the head. \u2018Settle down shortshanks and listen to the man,\u2019 he said soothingly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I could lance his gums if you like,\u2019 said Amos.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 said Joe, struggling. He looked up at Adam. \u2018What\u2019s that mean?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Cut them,\u2019 said Adam and patted him on the head soothingly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 cried Joe again. \u2018Let me go!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What would be your advice?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I could try it,\u2019 said Amos thoughtfully.\u00a0 \u2018But on the other hand, it might be all right to leave it. It\u2019s your choice really.\u2019\u00a0 He picked up a small knife and ran his finger over the edge while he waited for Ben\u2019s response.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 cried Little Joe. \u2018Don\u2019t let him cut me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted his son on the shoulder. \u2018It\u2019s all right Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just settle down.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to face Amos again. \u2018Well if you don\u2019t think it\u2019s absolutely necessary I think we\u2019ll leave it,\u2019 he said. \u2018He survived last time, so I\u2019m sure he will again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe relaxed visibly and let out the breath he\u2019d been holding.\u00a0 \u2018Thank you father,\u2019 he said softly. He looked up at his brothers. \u2018Now will ya let me go?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss yanked their little brother to his feet and let him go. \u2018There you go,\u2019 said Adam cheerfully. \u2018That wasn\u2019t too bad was it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe glared at him and ran his tongue over his teeth. \u2018Hey!\u2019 he said. \u2018They feel different.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s because I cleaned them up for you,\u2019 said Amos. He handed Ben a tin. \u2018Here Mr Cartwright.\u00a0 I recommend this tooth powder for all of you.\u00a0 It helps to keep them clean.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you,\u2019 said Ben, taking out his wallet. \u2018I\u2019ll see to it that they all use it. \u2018Now how much do I owe you Mr White?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Aren\u2019t you forgetting something Pa?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cleared his throat. \u2018I don\u2019t think so,\u2019 he said quickly. \u2018How much did you say Mr White?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What about you Pa?\u2019 interrupted Adam. \u2018You were going to get your teeth checked too, weren\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shot his son a dark look. \u2018I don\u2019t think there\u2019s really any need,\u2019 he said as he handed Amos a wad of bills. \u2018Is this enough?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos took the money. \u2018I think it\u2019d be a good idea for you to get your teeth checked Mr Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018Be a good example for your boys, don\u2019t you think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Yeah Pa,\u2019 chimed in Little Joe. \u2018It\u2019d be a good example for us.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pointed his finger at his youngest son. \u2018You be quiet young man,\u2019 he said sternly. \u2018It\u2019s not too late for me to change my mind about having those gums of yours lanced you know!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe swallowed and took a step behind Hoss who was tapping his cheek in amazement. \u2018 Still can\u2019t feel nothing\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You will in about half an hour,\u2019 said Amos. \u2018The drug will wear off gradually and you\u2019ll be fine. Well Mr Cartwright?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked around at everyone and sighed. \u2018Oh very well!\u2019 he said crossly and sat down in the chair. \u2018Hurry up!\u00a0 I\u2019m a busy man and I\u2019ve got important things to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amos took up his instrument one more time. \u2018Open up wide please,\u2019 he said and began to look inside Ben\u2019s mouth. After several minutes he stood up again, shaking his head. \u2018I\u2019m afraid those important things you have to do will need to wait for a while,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben went pale. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m afraid you have a badly impacted tooth back there,\u2019 continued Amos. \u2018It really needs to come out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben went even paler. \u2018But\u2026 but\u2026\u2019 he stammered. \u2018I\u2019m not in any pain!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh but you will be soon if it\u2019s not taken out,\u2019 said Amos as he picked up a small knife. \u2018Now\u2026 the question is\u2026 do you want it the old fashioned way or are you going to let me use the Nitrous Oxide?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss both took a step forward and held onto their father\u2019s arms.\u00a0 Little Joe walked around the back of the chair and began to pat his father on the back and make soothing noises. \u2018Its all right Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019ll be over soon. Just sit back and relax.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked from one to the other and then back to Amos again, who was fiddling with a small pair of pliers in his hand. \u2018Well?\u2019 he asked again. \u2018Which is it to be Mr Cartwright?\u2019\u00a0 Ben went even paler and slumped down in the chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

*<\/strong> Author\u2019s Note:<\/strong>\u00a0 The demonstration of nitrous oxide (or laughing gas as it came to be known) was performed by Horace Wells and William Morton at Harvard Medical School in 1845. It was not a success, due to the fact that they didn\u2019t use enough on the patient. The next year they performed a similar demonstration which was a success and Horace Wells went on to become known as the \u2018Father of Modern Dentistry\u2019. <\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0A traveling dentist visits town<\/p>\n

Rated: K (11,710 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":14925,"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],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1968","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2449,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/dentist.png?fit=137%2C220&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":2981,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2981","url_meta":{"origin":1968,"position":0},"title":"Brothers and Mud (by frasrgrl)","author":"frasrgrl","date":"April 24, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 \u00a0This is my entry for April's 2013 Chaps & Spurs\/Pinecone Trifecta.A WHIB for Springtime. Have you ever wondered what happened between the brothers making a \"Joe sandwich\" and the mud fight? Well, here's my answer to it. Word Count: 708\u00a0\u00a0Rated: K","rel":"","context":"In "Chaps and Spurs"","block_context":{"text":"Chaps and Spurs","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=39"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/springtime6.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/springtime6.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/springtime6.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/springtime6.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12148,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12148","url_meta":{"origin":1968,"position":1},"title":"First Notch (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"September 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 \"Sooner or later, the day will come when a man will force you into a shootout, and there will be no way out of it, except kill or be killed.\" Adam shared a bit of wisdom with his youngest brother the day that Joe was permitted to wear 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\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/LJshadow1.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":14007,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14007","url_meta":{"origin":1968,"position":2},"title":"Lady in Blue (by Susan G)","author":"SusanG","date":"December 13, 2005","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Taking an alternate route home with a wagon full of grain places Joe's life in danger.\u00a0 While waiting to be rescued he encounters a lovely lady. Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0\u00a0 (5,100 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\/05\/Blue.jpg?fit=236%2C312&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":12103,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12103","url_meta":{"origin":1968,"position":3},"title":"A Stranger in the House (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"January 16, 2015","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0The last time that Little Joe sees his father is when Ben yells at him to jump seconds before their wagon careens down a steep ravine. Little Joe is found badly wounded and brought home to his brothers........but what about his father? Ben has vanished and Joe's grief is\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\/10\/feature-2.jpg?fit=338%2C338&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":62604,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=62604","url_meta":{"origin":1968,"position":4},"title":"Among Tall Trees (by VickiC.)","author":"vickic","date":"March 3, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: After Inger's death Ben, Adam and baby Hoss journey west. Adam makes a new friend and the family find a new home. Rating: G (16,070 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Ben \/ Adam"","block_context":{"text":"Ben \/ Adam","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1016"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":5751,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5751","url_meta":{"origin":1968,"position":5},"title":"A Mouthful of Regret (by Patina)","author":"patina","date":"June 2, 2007","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0It's roundup time for the Cartwrights. Heated words are exchanged between Adam and Joe as they search for steers. A bear attack, though, changes everything. Rated T Word Count=6472","rel":"","context":"In "Prequel"","block_context":{"text":"Prequel","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=30"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SAS-Stories.jpg?fit=613%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SAS-Stories.jpg?fit=613%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SAS-Stories.jpg?fit=613%2C480&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1968","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1968"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1968\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/14925"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1968"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1968"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1968"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}