{"id":2017,"date":"2009-09-07T12:50:45","date_gmt":"2009-09-07T16:50:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2017"},"modified":"2026-03-07T18:53:34","modified_gmt":"2026-03-07T23:53:34","slug":"race-against-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2017","title":{"rendered":"Race Against Time (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>The Cartwrights battle to save Joe\u2019s life when his foot becomes trapped in between railway lines<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K (10,950 words)<\/p>\n

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Race Against Time<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019\u00a0 Ben Cartwright gave his youngest son a frustrated look that betrayed his feelings towards the young man\u2019s behaviour.\u00a0 It had been a long day and Ben was in no mood for his son\u2019s tricks, especially when it involved his brothers. \u2018Must you?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe turned in the saddle and gave his father a cheeky grin. \u2018I guess not Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Only it\u2019s such fun you know.\u2019\u00a0 He slid sideways and tried to grab hold of Hoss\u2019 hat again, but his brother this time had one hand firmly planted on top of it while he held onto the reins with the other.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Quit it Joe,\u2019 Hoss grumbled, just as tired and weary as his father. \u2018It ain\u2019t funny no more.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe gave one of his unmistakeable giggles and squirmed around in his saddle to see where Adam was. Ben wondered for the tenth time that day where the boy got his energy from.\u00a0 All four Cartwrights had been in the saddle since dawn and it was nearly sunset now.\u00a0 Whereas everyone else seemed bone weary, Joe bounced around as if he had just got up from a good night\u2019s rest.\u00a0 Ben supposed that it was one of the advantages of youth, but he honestly couldn\u2019t remember having half as much energy when he\u2019d been Joe\u2019s age.\u00a0 He shook his head and pulled his hat down over his eyes to shield them from the setting sun as he trudged along beside Hoss on their way home, while behind them he could hear Joe\u2019s giggle again.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I suppose you think that\u2019s funny?\u2019 asked Adam in his dry way as he reached out and snatched his hat back from his youngest brother.<\/p>\n

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\u2018You said it older brother,\u2019 giggled Joe gleefully. \u2018Guess no one is quick enough for me round here.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam lifted an eyebrow and said nothing, for from experience he knew that Joe might just stop his childish games if he were ignored for a while.\u00a0 He looked straight ahead and narrowed his eyes as he spied something in the distance. Sitting up straight in the saddle he peered at the unusual sight before them before giving a tired sigh. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said. \u2018Look.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben looked to where his son was pointing and saw one of their cows standing a short distance away from the trail on which they were riding. The animal was obviously in some sort of distress, but for the life of him Ben couldn\u2019t see why. From the bellowing noises it was making it was well and truly stuck in the bushes beside the railway track and Ben shook his head wearily. \u2018What\u2019s the matter with it?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Joseph, stop it!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe stopped reaching for Hoss\u2019 hat and turned to his father. \u2018What\u2019s the matter with what?\u2019 he asked and then saw what his father and brother were looking at. \u2018Stupid cow!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Hoss glared at his brother. \u2018Quit it Joe,\u2019 he said tersely over the noise of the bellowing animal. \u2018Poor thing can\u2019t help it. It\u2019s stuck on something in them bushes. I\u2019ll get it Pa.\u2019 He urged his horse across the railways tracks and forward towards the cow, speaking softly to it as he did. \u2018I\u2019m gonna need some help!\u2019 he yelled over his shoulder as he approached the animal and saw what was wrong. \u2018It\u2019s real stuck \u2026 tangled in them bushes somehow.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Joseph, go and help your brother,\u2019 instructed Ben. \u2018Put some of that energy you have to good use for a change.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sure thing Pa,\u2019 said Joe with a grin and trotted off after Hoss happily as his father and Adam sat wearily on their horses behind him and waited.\u00a0 Joe dismounted beside Hoss and gave the cow a disgusted look. \u2018Stupid cow!\u2019 he repeated. \u2018How dumb to get itself caught in there!\u2019\u00a0 He gestured to the bush in which the cow was entangled. \u2018What\u2019s it stuck on Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Its foot is caught in part of this old railway line,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Hang on.\u2019\u00a0 He bent down and tenderly felt along the cow\u2019s leg. \u2018Get behind there Joe and pull on it,\u2019 he instructed.\u00a0 Joe did as he was bid. \u2018Hey Hoss?\u2019 he said as he did so.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What?\u2019 grunted Hoss as he pushed the cow from behind.<\/p>\n

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\u2018How come this line ain\u2019t used no more?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss gave one more grunt as he gave the cow an almighty push that sent Joe sprawling on his back. \u2018Hey!\u2019 shouted the youngest Cartwright. \u2018What\u2019d ya do that for?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sorry Joe,\u2019 said Hoss with a grin as he put out a hand and pulled his younger brother to his feet. \u2018Sometimes I forget my own strength.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at the cow in satisfaction as it trotted away. \u2018Least it got free anyhow.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe dusted himself off. \u2018Hmph!\u2019 he said. \u2018What kind of stupid cow would get its foot stuck in there anyways?\u2019 he grumbled. \u2018Well?\u00a0 You ain\u2019t answered my question yet.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss picked up his hat and dusted it off before replacing it on his head. \u2018What question?\u2019 he said. \u2018Come on.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Are you two finished down there?\u2019 yelled their father. \u2018Hurry up!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Coming Pa!\u2019 shouted Joe. \u2018I asked you bout the railway line,\u2019 he said as he followed Hoss back towards their horses. \u2018How come that part ain\u2019t used no more?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Used to service the old Atkins mine up in them hills,\u2019 replied Hoss, pointing towards the hills to the west. \u2018Got closed when the mine failed I reckon.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe looked down at his feet and noticed where the rusty line met the highly polished silver one at the junction where he was standing. \u2018This where the trains would go back up there from the main line?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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Hoss shook his head. \u2018They wouldn\u2019t have sent a whole train up there stupid,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just a couple of flat cars I reckon. The main train woulda met it here.\u2019\u00a0 He looked into the distant mountains. \u2018Ya know Joe, when Pa first come here with Adam and me when we was little kids there was no such thing as a railroad even thought of.\u00a0 I reckon we\u2019ve come a long way since then huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe shrugged in a disinterested fashion. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said. \u2018Maybe.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018What do ya mean maybe?\u2019 asked Hoss crossly. \u2018The railroad has opened up lots of this land ta people that wouldn\u2019t normally be here otherwise.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Not to mention making our lives a lot easier,\u2019 added Adam as the two brothers led their horses up to their father and brother again. \u2018One day maybe we\u2019ll be able to ship all our freight on the railroad.\u2019\u00a0 His eyes took on a faraway look that his father and brothers knew well.\u00a0 Adam had always had a fascination for railroads and many times had persuaded his father to invest in them.\u00a0 It was Adam who had talked his father into negotiating with the railroad company when the tracks were being laid to have a spur line placed right here on The Ponderosa. It wasn\u2019t used enough for them to ship all their freight as yet, but the times would come when it would be.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well I don\u2019t know about any of that,\u2019 said Joe as he got back onto his horse and gave Adam a grin. \u2018All I know is that the lines are one more thing for dumb cows to get stuck in.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam shook his head. \u2018One day you might appreciate \u2026\u2019 he began, but his words were cut off by an exclamation from Hoss.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Quit it Joe!\u2019 his middle brother yelled in exasperation as Joe reached over, swiped his hat off his head yet again and flung it onto the ground where the wind promptly whipped it up and sent it down the slope that they\u2019d just climbed.<\/p>\n

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Ben turned in frustration. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 he exclaimed. \u2018I\u2019m sick and tired of telling you to stop it!\u2019 Joe gave his father an apologetic look, while at the same time managing to nimbly step his horse away from Hoss\u2019 reach. \u2018Get down there and pick up your brother\u2019s hat,\u2019 said Ben angrily. \u2018And hurry up! We should have been home half an hour ago!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe got down from his horse quickly and scurried down the slope, watched by his father and brothers. \u2018I\u2019m sick of him and his tricks,\u2019 muttered Hoss angrily. \u2018Why can\u2019t he just grow up and act his age?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s the problem son,\u2019 replied his father wearily. \u2018He is acting his age.\u2019\u00a0 He shook his head. \u2018Sometimes I feel like I\u2019m too old to deal with a youngster like Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Aw come on Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018You must admit that neither Hoss nor I were like that at his age.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s just plain obnoxious at times.\u2019\u00a0 He pointed down the slope to where his brother was crouched on the ground. \u2018See?\u00a0 Even now he\u2019s taking his time just to rile us.\u2019\u00a0 He stood up in his saddle and glared down the hill. \u2018Would you hurry up?\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Get a move on!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe looked over his shoulder. \u2018I can\u2019t!\u2019 he yelled back. \u2018My foot\u2019s stuck!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss rolled his eyes. \u2018Aw come on Joe!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Quit playing around will ya? \u00a0The joke is over!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I ain\u2019t kidding!\u2019 shouted back Joe. \u2018It\u2019s stuck!\u00a0 Come and help me Hoss!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss looked at his father who motioned with his hand. \u2018You\u2019d better get down there son,\u2019 he said. \u2018And please hurry up.\u00a0 I need a hot bath and a good meal.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss got down from his horse again, muttering under his breath. \u2018If that darn fool ain\u2019t serious then I\u2019m gonna clobber him!\u2019 he declared as he began his descent down the slope again. \u2018What fool thing ya done now?\u2019 he said testily as he came up behind his younger brother who was still crouched on the ground.\u00a0 He looked over his shoulder and saw that the youngster\u2019s foot was indeed stuck \u2026 wedged between the two railroad lines where the spur line met the main line. He began to chuckle. \u2018Well who\u2019s as dumb as a stupid cow now?\u2019 he said with glee. \u2018Reckon you are, huh little brother?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe glared up at him. \u2018Very funny!\u2019 he said. \u2018Will you just help me get it outta here please?\u2019\u00a0 He tugged on his ankle again. \u2018Ow!\u2019 he said. \u2018Hurry up Hoss.\u00a0 It hurts!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Serves ya right for all them tricks,\u2019 muttered Hoss as he bent over his brother and began to pull on his ankle as well. \u2018Hold still a minute.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Ow!\u2019 said Joe again and pushed Hoss away. \u2018It hurts!\u00a0 Don\u2019t do that!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss frowned as the foot that was wedged between the lines. \u2018I reckon its stuck fast Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Guess you\u2019ll haveta stay there then huh?\u2019\u00a0 He grinned at his younger brother, but quickly changed the look to one of concern as he saw the look on Joe\u2019s face. \u2018It\u2019s really hurting huh?\u2019 he said in a milder tone.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes!\u2019 said Joe between gritted teeth. \u2018Make all the stupid cow jokes you want older brother, but just get me outta here first, will ya?\u2019\u00a0 He bent down to try and pull his foot free again while Hoss studied it.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Hoss!\u2019 called their father from the top of the hill. \u2018Joseph! Will you both hurry up please?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss turned to face his father. \u2018I\u2019m gonna need help Pa,\u2019 he called.<\/p>\n

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Ben and Adam got down from their horses and began to climb down the hill. \u2018What\u2019s he done now,\u2019 said Adam as they approached.\u00a0 He glanced down at Joe\u2019s foot in the railroad line and rolled his eyes. \u2018Seems like you\u2019re \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe glared at him. \u2018I\u2019ve already heard the stupid cow jokes,\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018Just get it out will ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam gave a short chuckle and bent over his brother with Hoss. \u2018All right,\u2019 he said. \u2018You hold onto his ankle Hoss and I\u2019ll hang on further up his leg here.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Both brothers began to pull on Joe\u2019s leg while their father watched silently from behind.\u00a0 Suddenly Joe threw his head back and yelled. \u2018Don\u2019t!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Leave it alone!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Both brothers let go of his leg, while Ben pushed them aside and knelt next to his youngest son. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said. \u2018What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I dunno,\u2019 said Joe, trying not to cry. \u2018But it really hurts Pa.\u00a0 It feels like there\u2019s something sticking into it under the rail.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben looked down and saw blood seeping down his son\u2019s boot. He patted Joe on the shoulder. \u2018It could be a nail under there,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just relax son and we\u2019ll get you out.\u2019\u00a0 He looked up at his other two sons. \u2018I think we\u2019re going to need a crowbar to loosen this rail,\u2019 he said. \u2018One of you ride back to the house and get one.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s going to take forever,\u2019 said Joe petulantly. \u2018Can\u2019t Hoss just loosen it?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I might be strong shortshanks, but I ain\u2019t that strong,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I\u2019ll go and get it Pa.\u2019\u00a0 He slithered up the hill.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Hurry up!\u2019 called Joe. \u2018It hurts something awful Hoss!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben patted Joe on the shoulder again. \u2018Just sit still,\u2019 he instructed him. \u2018The more you move around, then the more you might drive that nail into it.\u2019 He looked up at Adam. \u2018Get the canteen please son,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Adam nodded and followed Hoss up the hill. \u2018I guess I am just like that stupid cow!\u2019 muttered Joe.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What exactly happened?\u2019 asked Ben, sitting beside him.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I dunno,\u2019 Joe shrugged, glaring at his foot. \u2018I just didn\u2019t look where my feet were going I guess.\u00a0 I was too busy looking for Hoss\u2019 hat and I didn\u2019t notice the two lines coming together.\u2019\u00a0 He stared down at the railroad line. \u2018Who\u2019da thought I\u2019d get stuck in between them?\u2019\u00a0 He looked up at his father and Ben noticed the unshed tears that he was trying desperately to control. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Pa.\u00a0 I know you wanna get home quickly.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben smiled at his son. \u2018The main thing is to get you out of here,\u2019 he said. \u2018When we get home though I\u2019ll sure give you a piece of my mind young man,\u2019 he joked, wanting to take Joe\u2019s mind off the situation.<\/p>\n

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Joe gave his father a wan smile, but Ben noticed the frown that flitted across his forehead as a wave of pain washed over him. \u2018Keep still,\u2019 he said again. \u2018Hoss won\u2019t be long.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Here,\u2019 said Adam as he slithered back down to them again and held the canteen out to Joe.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Thanks,\u2019 said Joe gratefully and took a long swallow before handing it back again. He lay back on his elbows and bit his lip trying not to groan at the pain that was intensifying with every minute. \u2018I reckon I\u2019ve spoilt things huh?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018So what\u2019s new?\u2019 said Adam as he also sat down beside his brother. \u2018You usually do.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe tried to smile at him, but the smile turned to a gasp. \u2018Ow!\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s really beginning to hurt now.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben examined his son\u2019s foot. \u2018You\u2019re twisting it sideways sitting like that,\u2019 he said. \u2018Move towards this way and it should ease the pain \u2026 Better?\u2019 he asked as Joe did as he was told.<\/p>\n

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Joe nodded. \u2018A bit,\u2019 he said and then looked up the hill anxiously. \u2018I sure wish that Hoss would hurry.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018He\u2019ll be here as soon as he can,\u2019 Ben assured him.\u00a0 He glanced anxiously at Adam who shook his head slightly.\u00a0 They both knew that it would take Hoss at least an hour to get home and back again.\u00a0 An hour that would seem to be extremely long to all of them.<\/p>\n

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

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By the time Hoss did return with the crowbar, Joe was long past the stage where he could hide the pain from any of them.\u00a0 Hoss found his brother lying on the ground and his father murmuring soothing words to him while Adam anxiously scanned the horizon for his brother. \u2018Thank goodness,\u2019 said Adam fervently as Hoss dismounted. \u2018We\u2019ve got to get him out of there quickly Hoss.\u00a0 His foot is giving him a lot of trouble.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018This\u2019ll do it,\u2019 said Hoss grimly, holding up the crowbar. Both brothers slid down the slope again.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Joe?\u2019 said Ben as he watched them approach. \u2018Your brother is here son.\u00a0 We\u2019ll soon have you out of there.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe opened his eyes slightly and looked up the hill. \u2018Good,\u2019 he murmured and then shut them again.<\/p>\n

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\u2018This\u2019ll loosen that rail Joe,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Hang on little buddy.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe didn\u2019t open his eyes, but acknowledged his brother\u2019s remark with a slight wave of his hand. Hoss gave him a worried look and the bent his weight on the rail as he propped the crowbar under.\u00a0 After several minutes he let go. \u2018It ain\u2019t shifting,\u2019 he said and then looked up and down the line. \u2018Maybe if I try a bit further along,\u2019 he said. \u2018Where the join of those two rails are.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018What good would that do?\u2019 asked Adam impatiently. \u2018If it bends up there then it won\u2019t loosen enough here to get his foot out.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I know that, said Hoss. \u2018But I can get the line out and then we\u2019ll be able to move this one as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018And do what?\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018Leave a chunk of the rail out altogether? What about when a train \u2026.\u2019 He stopped suddenly and gave his father a horrified look. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Ben looked up at him. \u2018What?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam glanced down at Joe and then motioned to his father. \u2018Over here,\u2019 he said. Ben moved away slightly from Joe and the movement cause his son to groan softly. \u2018Just keep still Joseph,\u2019 murmured his father. \u2018I\u2019m right here.\u2019 He leaned over towards Adam. \u2018What is it?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Today is Thursday,\u2019 said Adam urgently.<\/p>\n

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

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\u2018Pa \u2026 the weekly train from Carson City will come through here in the morning, won\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

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A streak of cold fear ran through Ben as he looked at Adam with horror. \u2018Pa?\u2019 said Adam again. \u2018Did you hear what I said? We\u2019ve only got until early morning when that train comes through here.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m gonna bust that rail up there where it joins the other line,\u2019 said Hoss emphatically, listening with horror to his brother\u2019s words.<\/p>\n

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Adam turned on him. \u2018And what would that achieve?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019ll loosen this rail here,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018What else?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And leave a section of rail missing in the process,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018What\u2019s going to happen when that train comes through then?\u00a0 You ever seen a train wreck Hoss?\u00a0 It ain\u2019t pretty.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t care!\u2019 declared Hoss. \u2018We don\u2019t have much choice do we?\u00a0 If Joe\u2019s foot \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Stop the both of you,\u2019 interrupted Ben firmly. \u2018We don\u2019t have time for this nonsense!\u00a0 Hoss you\u2019ll leave that rail exactly where it is.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Get back to the house and get a few of the men and some more tools,\u2019 continued Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Do as I say and hurry!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Bu Pa \u2026\u2019 Hoss tried again. \u2018They\u2019s none of em there remember? They\u2019s all out on the North Section with the herd.\u00a0 There\u2019s no way I\u2019d get any of em back by morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben thought for a moment. \u2018Then get back to the house and load up the wagon with whatever tools you can get your hands on.\u00a0 Hurry!\u2019 Hoss nodded and took off without another word. \u2018Adam,\u2019 said Ben, turning to him. \u2018Ride to Carson City and stop that train!\u2019 Adam took off without a word and Ben turned back to Joe again. He crouched down next to him and studied his face intently. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 he asked. \u2018How do you feel son?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes. \u2018It still hurts,\u2019 he murmured softly, the pain showing clearly on his brow.\u00a0 He looked around. \u2018Where are Adam and Hoss?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss went back to get some more tools,\u2019 said his father, brushing the curls back from his brow. \u2018And Adam went \u2026 Adam went to get some help in Carson City.\u2019\u00a0 There was no way that Ben intended to alert the youngster of the fact that his brother had ridden to stop a train and he watched Joe\u2019s face intently to see if he noticed anyone strange in what he\u2019d just said.\u00a0 After all, there was no way that they would ride to Carson City for help when Virginia City was so much closer.\u00a0 To his relief, Joe didn\u2019t seem to notice the anomaly in what he\u2019d said, however, and merely nodded slightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat down on the railway line and looked first one way and then the other.\u00a0 The rails stretched far into the distance both ways and from the angle in which he was looking at them, they seemed to take on the appearance of two long silver snakes stretched out as far as the eye could see.\u00a0 In the fading light they glinted with the last of the sun\u2019s rays and Ben watched in fascination as they sparkled.\u00a0 He\u2019d never really stopped to look at railway lines before and he cursed the fact that necessity meant that he had to do it now.\u00a0 He sent up a silent prayer to his Lord as the last of the sun\u2019s rays diminished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

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Adam rode as he\u2019d never ridden before.\u00a0 Logically he knew that he would reach Carson City within three hours, but his anxiety spurred him on to ride as fast as he could even so.\u00a0 Three hours would be plenty of time to make sure that the train never pulled out of Carson City and started along the track that would eventually lead it to his helpless brother stretched out on top of it.\u00a0 Besides, he reasoned, Hoss and Pa would no doubt get Joe free long before there was any real concern.\u00a0 The only problem in his mind was the state of Joe\u2019s foot when they did eventually get it free.\u00a0 From what he could see, the youngster\u2019s ankle had been pinned by a loose nail.\u00a0 Joe would probably be hurting for a while to come, but he\u2019d be fine.\u00a0 Adam kept saying that fact over and over to himself as he rode, trying to ignore the niggling thought in the back of his brain that told him otherwise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

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Ben held Joe\u2019s head and watched as his son drank thirstily from his canteen.\u00a0 When he\u2019d finished he lay the boy\u2019s head down gently again as he put the stopper back on. \u2018That better?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah \u2026 thanks,\u2019 said Joe. He shivered as a gust of cold wind blew around them. \u2018I\u2019m cold,\u2019 he murmured as he closed his eyes again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cursed himself silently for not mentioning to Hoss to bring blankets back with him.\u00a0 He took off his coat and wrapped it around the youngster\u2019s thin shoulders, causing Joe to cry out softly with the movement. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Joe,\u2019 he said softly as he eased his son\u2019s arms into the sleeves.\u00a0 The young man was so thin that his father\u2019s coat fitted over the top of his own thin green one without any problem.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes again and stared up at his father. \u2018What about you?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Ain\u2019t you cold Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tried not to shiver as he replied. \u2018No son\u2026 I\u2019m fine,\u2019 he said. Joe seemed to accept his father\u2019s statement and closed his eyes again.\u00a0 Suddenly he opened them as he felt Ben shift beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 he said anxiously. \u2018Pa?\u00a0 Where are you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m here son,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Where are you going?\u00a0 Don\u2019t leave me Pa!\u2019 \u00a0Joe\u2019s voice had an edge of desperation to it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Its all right Joe,\u2019 said Ben reassuringly. \u2018I\u2019m just going back up the slope to my horse.\u00a0 I\u2019m going to get my other canteen and gather some wood while I\u2019m there.\u00a0 We can get a fire going while we wait for Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Don\u2019t be long,\u2019 he said, clinging to his father\u2019s sleeve anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled down at him, noting how young he looked in the moonlight. \u2018I\u2019ll just be a few minutes,\u2019 he said. \u2018I promise.\u2019\u00a0 He pulled the youngster\u2019s hand off his sleeve reluctantly and turned to go back towards his horse.\u00a0 As quickly as he could, he got his canteen and a few other things from his saddlebags and gathered up some wood as he made his way back down towards the railroad track. \u2018Here I am,\u2019 he said, trying to appear jovial. \u2018I\u2019ll soon have a fire going in no time and we\u2019ll warm up.\u2019\u00a0 As he lit the fire, he thought about how it would also serve as a signal in case a train \u2026.\u00a0 Ben shook his head. \u2018Stupid,\u2019 he muttered half to himself.\u00a0 Of course there was no need to think like that. Adam would get to Carson City in plenty of time to stop the driver and Hoss would be back in no time with all the tools they needed to get Joe free.\u00a0 There was no need to worry at all!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

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Adam drew his horse up outside the railroad office and dismounted quickly.\u00a0 He leant against the animal\u2019s flank for a moment trying to catch his breath, feeling the heaving of the horse\u2019s sides as the animal also got its own breathing under control.\u00a0 One thing was for sure \u2026 he had got here just in time as Sport couldn\u2019t possibly have gone at such a pace for much longer.\u00a0 He turned towards the office, feeling his legs beginning to shake with the exertion of having sat on the horse for so long and ridden at such a pace and then dismissed the feeling as unimportant as he knocked on the door of the office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned as he realised that there was no answer.\u00a0 Of course at this time of night there wouldn\u2019t be \u2026. But he had hoped anyway.\u00a0 He glanced across the street to the Station Master\u2019s house and quickly strode over to it before banging on the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Presently the door was opened by a small man with glasses. \u2018Yes?\u2019 he said, peering into the darkness beyond the door. \u2018What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I need to talk to someone about the train that\u2019s due out of here in the morning,\u2019 said Adam, his anxiety evident in his voice. \u2018Who\u2019s in charge around here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well that would be me,\u2019 said the men, adjusting his glasses and peering at Adam. \u2018Come back in the morning \u2026 it\u2019s late.\u2019\u00a0 He began to shut the dor, but Adam pushed against it and prevented him from doing so. \u2018Look \u2026 Mr whatever-your-name is,\u2019 blustered the man. \u2018It\u2019s late and my family and I \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t give a damn,\u2019 said Adam, pushing the door further ajar and glaring at the man. \u2018I need to speak to the driver of that train.\u2019\u00a0 He waved in the general direction of the railroad station across the street. \u2018It\u2019s an emergency.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What train?\u2019 said the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The train over there in the \u2026\u2019\u00a0 Adam stopped as he glanced over his shoulder and saw that the station was indeed empty. \u2018What \u2026 where is it?\u2019 he asked feebly. \u2018There\u2019s supposed to be a train there \u2026. It leaves in the morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man shook his head. \u2018Ain\u2019t there,\u2019 he said smugly and tried to close the door again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pushed the door fully open this time, causing it to crash against the hallway wall. \u2018Now see here\u2026.\u2019 said the man. \u2018What right do you \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Where is that train?\u2019 yelled Adam. \u2018\u2019It should be in the station, shouldn\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man took a step backwards. \u2018Well ordinarily yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Only there\u2019s been a change of plan for this week.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gripped the man by the collar and pulled him towards him. \u2018Where is it?\u2019 he yelled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Re \u2026 Reno,\u2019 said the man, trying to disentangle himself. \u2018We had problems with the line and so we diverted it to Reno two days ago. It\u2019ll leave from there this week instead of here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam let him go and leant against the wall to steady himself. \u2018Reno?\u2019 he said softly. \u2018I don\u2019t understand.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man shook his head slightly. \u2018I just told you,\u2019 he said impatiently. \u2018It\u2019s been diverted to Reno.\u00a0 It\u2019ll run from there this week.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stared at him. \u2018So it won\u2019t go via the same track?\u2019 he said hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well not for the first part,\u2019 said the man. \u2018It\u2019ll join the main track up near the Truckee River I guess.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018What time will it leave Reno?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

The man thought for a moment. \u2018Before dawn,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019ll need to make up extra time I guess.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Adam stood up straight. \u2018Where\u2019s the telegraph office?\u2019 he demanded. \u2018Quick!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

The man pointed down past the railway station. \u2018Down there,\u2019 he said and then added as Adam ran out of the door and onto the street.\u2019 But it\u2019ll be shut at this time of night!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Adam stopped. \u2018Where is the telegrapher?\u2019 he shouted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man pointed up to the other end of the street. \u2018Probably up there in the Saloon,\u2019 he said and shook his head as Adam began to sprint up the street. \u2018Rude!\u2019 he said as he closed the door. \u2018I don\u2019t know what young people are coming to nowadays!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam crashed into the saloon and stared around him at everyone who stared back at his abrupt entry. \u2018The telegrapher!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Is he here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A man at the back of the saloon stood up unsteadily. \u2018I believe you are addressing me young man,\u2019 he said in a slightly slurred voice that betrayed one too many drinks. \u2018What can I do for you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam strode over to him and pulled him forward by the shirt collar. \u2018I need you to come with me now,\u2019 he said urgently. \u2018I need a telegraph sent to Reno immediately.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man shook his head. \u2018Sorry,\u2019 he said. \u2018I can\u2019t do it right at the moment.\u2019\u00a0 He reached out for his drink on the table, but Adam slapped his hand away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said now!\u2019 he shouted into the man\u2019s face. \u2018You\u2019re coming with me to the telegraph office immediately!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll come with you,\u2019 said the man. \u2018But it ain\u2019t no use.\u00a0 The lines are down and I can\u2019t a wire no how.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Adam stared at him in disbelief. \u2018The lines are down?\u2019 he said. \u2018But \u2026 but \u2026 they can\u2019t be!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man shrugged. \u2018They are,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018When will they be fixed?\u2019 demanded Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man shrugged again. \u2018Not sure,\u2019 he said. \u2018Some time tomorrow no doubt.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Adam sat down heavily on a chair, his face pale. \u2018What\u2019s the matter?\u2019 asked the man. \u2018You look like you\u2019ve seen a ghost or something.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Adam stared up at him for a moment and then put his face in his hands. The man placed his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Why don\u2019t ya have drink?\u2019 he suggested. \u2018I always find that a good stiff whiskey usually helps when I\u2019ve got troubles.\u2019\u00a0 He chuckled. \u2018Usually helps when I ain\u2019t got em too,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Adam drummed his fingers on the table as he tried to gather his thoughts together. Suddenly he stood up. \u2018Do you have a pencil and paper?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure \u2026. Why?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Just give them to me,\u2019 said Adam impatiently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

The man handed them over and watched as Adam wrote furiously for a few seconds. \u2018Here,\u2019 he said. \u2018Send this to Reno as soon as those lines are up and running again, you hear?\u2019\u00a0 The man nodded as Adam took some bills out of his pocket and thrust them at him. \u2018It\u2019s a matter of life and death,\u2019 he said urgently. \u2018You understand?\u2019\u00a0 The man nodded again, his eyes widening as he snatched the bills.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018I understand,\u2019 he said. \u2018But what \u2026\u2019 He stopped as he realised that the young man had gone \u2026 disappearing from the Saloon as quickly as he had entered it.\u00a0 He shrugged as he pocketed the money and the note and sat down once again to pick up his drink.<\/p>\n

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

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Ben stared up at the stars and prayed quietly while beside him Joe slept fitfully. Ben wondered how the youngster could sleep at all, but figured that it was the shock of what was happening that allowed him to do so. He glanced at the fire beside him and then up the slope, wondering for the tenth time that hour what was keeping Hoss.\u00a0 He took out his pocket watch and glanced at it in the light of the fire and decided that it wasn\u2019t that late after all \u2026 it just seemed that time went slower when you were counting every minute.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Beside him, Joe stirred in his sleep and groaned softly.\u00a0 Ben glanced down at his son\u2019s foot and noticed that the blood which had been oozing from his boot seemed to have stopped and was caking around the end of his trousers.\u00a0 He supposed that it was a good sign, and shuddered slightly to think of what they would find when they eventually did get the foot free.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wondered if Adam had reached Carson City yet and figured that he probably had.\u00a0 His son would have ridden as fast as he could in spite of the fact that they had hours to spare.\u00a0 He would have if it had been him who had taken the ride \u2026 his anxiety would have spurred him on no end.\u00a0 He thought that Adam would probably bring some men back with him when he did return, and wondered if they would need them after all.\u00a0 Depending on the tools that Hoss brought back with him, the two of them should be able to get to work and have Joe\u2019s foot free in no time.\u00a0 He glanced at the moon, which was disappearing behind yet another cloud and considered that the clouds were building up in the sky above him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018Great!\u2019 he said out loud.\u00a0 The one thing they would need to see what they were doing was moonlight and there was little of that as it was.\u00a0 Never mind though, for if the worse came to it they would simply wait until dawn and finish the job then.\u00a0 The only thing that mattered was getting Joseph free and now that he knew that there was no train coming Ben figured that as long as his son wasn\u2019t in too much pain they could afford to work a little more slower and carefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stirred again and opened his eyes. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he murmured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben bent over the boy. \u2018Yes Joe?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It \u2026 it hurts Pa,\u2019 said Joe with a whimper. \u2018Are Hoss and Adam back yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018They won\u2019t be long son,\u2019 said Ben gently and brushed back the curls from the youngster\u2019s forehead for the tenth time that hour. \u2018They\u2019ll be here soon.\u2019<\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Joe shifted restlessly, causing a sharp stab of pain to travel up his leg and he groaned. \u2018Ow!\u2019 he said, clutching his father\u2019s arm. \u2018When will they be here Pa?\u2019 he asked again.<\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben looked into the youngster\u2019s face and noticed the pursed lips and the creased forehead that said more than any words could.\u00a0 Joe was obviously in a great deal of pain and trying desperately not to show it.<\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018Soon,\u2019 he murmured, stroking the boy\u2019s forehead again. He searched around for something to talk about to keep his son\u2019s mind off the pain. \u2018Look up at the stars Joe,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Can you see the Big Dipper?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe obediently looked up, his glazed eyes searching the heavens. \u2018Over there,\u2019 he said flatly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018And there is the North Star,\u2019 he said. \u2018Remember when you were a little boy and I used to sit on the porch with you and point them out to you before you went to bed each night?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded fretfully. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018And I wouldn\u2019t go to bed until you\u2019d told me all the ones you knew,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u2018I have a feeling that you weren\u2019t so much interested in the stars as in staying out of bed a bit longer,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded slightly. \u2018Probably,\u2019 he agreed and then frowned again. \u2018It hurts \u2026 when will they come?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben held onto him tightly, shifting slightly so that his son was cradled in his arms. \u2018And you didn\u2019t even care if it was freezing outside,\u2019 he said, trying to keep the boy\u2019s mind off the pain. \u2018You\u2019d still insist on going outside even so.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa \u2026 please \u2026. It really hurts now!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hugged his son to him. \u2018I know son,\u2019 he said soothingly. \u2018It was so cold that I\u2019d have to wrap you in a blanket \u2026 remember?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u2019\u00a0 Joe closed his eyes and bit his lip. There was silence for a few minutes. \u2018You used to show me mama\u2019s star,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018The one you said that she was looking down from heaven from.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Yes,\u2019 agreed Ben. \u2018I did. Can you see it now?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes again and began to look up into the sky, but another wave of pain shot through him and he cried aloud in spite of himself. \u2018Pa!\u00a0 Are they here yet? Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben held onto his son tightly. \u2018Look for your mother\u2019s star Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Look and see if you can find it.\u2019\u00a0 He prayed silently as Joe began to sob aloud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018I can\u2019t \u2026 I can\u2019t!\u2019 sobbed the youngster. \u2018Please Pa \u2026. Make them come now! Please!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben buried his face in his son\u2019s curls, a feeling a helplessness overcoming him as the boy pleaded with him. He murmured to his son, not even knowing what he was saying as the minutes ticked by.<\/p>\n

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

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Adam pulled his mount up and gave it a few moments to catch its breath, in spite of his desperate desire to keep going.\u00a0 He knew that he and the animal couldn\u2019t keep up this pace for much longer and if he was going to get to Reno in time he\u2019d have to force himself to pace the horse sensibly.\u00a0 He patted the animal\u2019s flank, grateful that he\u2019d been able to rouse the man from the Livery stable man and convince him to hire him a horse.\u00a0 Much and all as Sport was an outstanding animal with a lot of endurance, Adam knew that the horse wasn\u2019t capable of making the trip after what he\u2019d already asked him to do this night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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He knew that he was bone weary himself, but nothing on this earth would have let him hand over this ride to anyone else.\u00a0 No one else could ride with the desperation that he was feeling right now and he knew enough to know that desperation could drive a man to greater things than he was otherwise capable of.\u00a0 Adam prayed that it was so tonight.\u00a0 He refused to think of what could happen if the train left Reno before he had a chance to get there \u2026 his mind pushed the idea aside immediately \u2026 but still the desperation remained in spite of the logical part of him that knew that Hoss and Pa would probably already have Joe freed from the line. He patted the horse\u2019s flank again as he spurred him up and headed down the hill towards the far distant Reno.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

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\u2018Thank God!\u2019 whispered Ben under his breath and then turned to lean close to Joe. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Hoss is back.\u00a0 Your brother is here now son and we\u2019ll get your foot free in no time.\u2019\u00a0 Joe didn\u2019t reply, but merely nodded his head, as if all his energy was going towards the management of the pain, which Ben supposed that it probably was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Hoss slithered down towards his father, his arms full. \u2018Sorry I took so long Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I didn\u2019t want to forget anything.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced down at Joe. \u2018How is he?\u2019 he asked anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben breathed another sigh of relief. \u2018Not good,\u2019 he replied. \u2018His foot is really hurting him now.\u00a0 The important thing is just to get it out of there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018Adam not back yet?\u2019 he asked as he put down the things in his hands and took the rope off his body that he\u2019d draped there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018Not yet,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019ll take him an hour or so more to get back here from Carson City.\u00a0 I imagine he\u2019ll probably need a bit of time to make sure that things are understood back there as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded again. \u2018Don\u2019t suppose anyone\u2019ll be pleased ta cancel the train schedule like that,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t really care,\u2019 said Ben testily. \u2018The important thing right now is Joseph.\u00a0 Good boy!\u2019 he exclaimed as Hoss held out a blanket to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018I done told ya Pa,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I tried to remember everything I could.\u00a0 I figured you two would be getting mighty cold right about now.\u2019\u00a0 He watched as Ben took his jacket off Joe and wrapped the youngster in two of the blankets. \u2018I\u2019ll get these lamps lit and we\u2019ll be able to see what we\u2019re doing, he continued.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes. \u2018Hoss?\u2019 he said. \u2018Is that you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Hoss patted his brother on the shoulder. \u2018Sure is shortshanks,\u2019 he said, trying his best to sound jovial for his brother\u2019s sake. \u2018We\u2019ll have ya outta there in no time now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Joe nodded. \u2018Thanks Hoss,\u2019 he murmured. \u2018Hurry up though, will ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced at his father before picking up several of the tools on the ground beside him and beginning to work. Ben bent over Joe again and held his hand tenderly as he listened to the scraping sounds of metal against metal beside him. \u2018It\u2019ll soon be all done,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Not long to go now son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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As the minutes ticked by and the sounds continued, Joe began to get agitated and tried to sit up. \u2018Can\u2019t you get it loose Hoss?\u2019 he asked fretfully. \u2018Hurry up, will ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss didn\u2019t answer, but Ben could hear his grunting sounds next to him as he continued to work. He pushed Joe down again and turned to face his middle son. \u2018What is it?\u2019 he asked softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Hoss shook his head. \u2018It just won\u2019t budge Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I can\u2019t see properly neither.\u2019\u00a0 He picked up a lamp and held it close to the track. \u2018Seems ta be rusted here where the two lines meet,\u2019 he said. \u2018Problem is that the rusted bit is the part I gotta work on.\u00a0 The good part is on the main line.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s because the spur line hasn\u2019t been used for quite a while,\u2019 replied his father.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sure would make it a lot easier if I could move the main line,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018As Adam said before, you\u2019d be ripping up the main track for the train,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018We can\u2019t risk it son.\u00a0 Keep working on the rusted part.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged and went back to work again as Joe struggled against his father\u2019s grasp and this time managed to sit up to get a better look at what his brother was doing. \u2018Hurry up will ya Hoss?\u2019 he pleaded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m going as fast as I can,\u2019 said Hoss between gritted teeth as he strained against the pressure of the track. \u2018Don\u2019t you worry none Joe.\u00a0 I\u2019ll get ya free.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam pulled to a halt outside the railroad station and breathed a sigh of relief as he dismounted.\u00a0 He glanced up at the moon which had shifted considerably in the past few hours since he\u2019d been riding and noticed that it was disappearing behind a cloud, considerably diminishing the light around him.\u00a0 He glanced around and noticed that the town was deserted, as well he thought it would be at this time of the night \u2026 or morning as it now was.<\/p>\n

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He looked up and down the street, considering for a moment his best course of action and then with a small nod of his head he ran over to the track.\u00a0 For a moment he stood stunned to see that there was no train there and then the realisation of what had happened hit him with full force.\u00a0 There was no train standing at the station where he had expected it to be.\u00a0 He squinted his eyes for a moment hoping against hope that it would suddenly materialise before his eyes if he willed it hard enough, his hands clenching and unclenching involuntarily.<\/p>\n

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Adam took a couple of deep breaths and tried to calm himself before turning back to his horse, mounting up and riding at a full gallop down the deserted street to the Sheriff\u2019s office. He dismounted for a second time in as many minutes and hurled himself towards the dimly lit office, leaning against the door and causing it to open with a crash.<\/p>\n

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The sheriff looked up from the newspaper he was reading and frowned. \u2018Not again!\u2019 he thundered. \u2018What are they up to this time?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Adam blinked a couple of times, taken aback by the man\u2019s remark. \u2018Wh .. what?\u2019 he stammered.<\/p>\n

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The sheriff sighed as he got up and reached for his gun belt. \u2018How many this time?\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018Honestly \u2026 you\u2019d think a man could get a decent night\u2019s sleep around here without being asked to get down to that saloon every hour to break up a fight!\u2019\u00a0 He turned to Adam. \u2018Lead the way,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Adam blinked again. \u2018I\u2019m not here about any fight!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Where is the train?\u2019<\/p>\n

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The sheriff stared at him with his hands on his hips. \u2018What the hell are you talking about sonny?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Has there been another fight in the saloon, or hasn\u2019t there?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I have no idea about a fight and I don\u2019t care!\u2019 shouted Adam. \u2018Where is that train, dammit?\u2019<\/p>\n

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The sheriff gave Adam an angry look. \u2018Now you just settle down there sonny,\u2019 he said. \u2018Sit down.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam stepped forward and grabbed the other man by the collar. \u2018Just answer my question!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018The train!\u00a0 The one that\u2019s leaving for Virginia City in the morning \u2026 where is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

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The sheriff pulled himself free. \u2018Now you just settle down or I\u2019ll put you in that cell for accosting an officer of the law,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just calm down and start making some sense.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam took a deep breath and tried to calm down, realising in the dim recesses of his mind that if he didn\u2019t he wouldn\u2019t get anywhere with the man. \u2018The train,\u2019 he said again, more calmly this time. \u2018Has the train that is to go to Virginia City in the morning arrived here yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sure has,\u2019 said the sheriff. \u2018Came yesterday morning.\u00a0 There was a problem at Carson City and they had to \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

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I know all that,\u2019 interrupted Adam. \u2018I just need to know where it is now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

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Adam thumped himself on the forehead in exasperation. \u2018Please!\u2019 he said, giving the man a pleading look. \u2018It\u2019s a matter of life and death! Where is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018On its way to Virginia City I reckon,\u2019 said the sheriff.\u00a0 He watched as Adam sat down heavily on a chair and stared at him. \u2018What\u2019s the matter sonny?\u2019 he said. \u2018What did you mean by it\u2019s a matter of life and death? Who\u2019s life?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam swallowed, willing the man to make the situation better even as he did so. \u2018My \u2026 my brother,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018His foot is trapped between the tracks on the main line between here and Virginia City.\u2019<\/p>\n

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The sheriff jumped. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018But the train \u2026\u2019 His voice trailed away and he stared at Adam. \u2018You stay there sonny,\u2019 he instructed him. \u2018I\u2019m going to round up a few men and we\u2019ll ride after that train.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam clutched hold of him. \u2018How long ago did it leave?\u2019 he asked urgently.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Bout an hour ago,\u2019 replied the man. \u2018I\u2019ll get some men and we\u2019ll \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 His voice trailed away again as he realised that he was alone in the room. He looked at the open door and heard Adam\u2019s horse galloping down the street.<\/p>\n

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Ben looked up at the sky, which was beginning to lighten, and wondered for the tenth time that hour just where Adam was and why he hadn\u2019t returned.\u00a0 He immediately dismissed thoughts that raced through his brain, all connected with things going wrong \u2026 for there was no way that he would even contemplate that happening. He lowered his eyes to look once again at Hoss who was still bent over the track, his fingers clenched on the tools in his hands and his face clenched in concentration. \u2018Hold it now Pa,\u2019 he said, between gritted teeth. \u2018I\u2019ll pull it this way.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben held onto the track as Hoss pulled yet again, the veins in his neck standing out as the exertion of the act overcame him.\u00a0 Once again, the line refused to budge. \u2018I think it\u2019s loosened a bit,\u2019 muttered Hoss, bending over it yet again and delving down between the tools with his fingers. \u2018I can feel a bit more space there now,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Ben glanced down at Joe who was lying motionless between them, his face pale in the gloom.\u00a0 The lamp that was beside him cast a dim glow all round them, increasing the eerie look of the scene. Suddenly, Joe opened his eyes with a start and stared up at his father. \u2018What was that?\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

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Ben leant over him. \u2018What was what son?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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Joe frowned, trying to concentrate on what his father had asked. \u2018That \u2026\u2019 he was still for a moment. \u2018That shaking,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Ben looked at him intently. \u2018I don\u2019t feel anything,\u2019 he said. \u2018What shaking?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe frowned again. \u2018I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he said fretfully. \u2018I don\u2019t think \u2026\u2019\u00a0 His eyes widened. \u2018I can feel shaking,\u2019 he said. \u2018There it is again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben brushed the curls off his son\u2019s forehead. \u2018There\u2019s nothing shaking Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just close your eyes son and lie still now while we get you free.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe closed his eyes obediently and then opened them again immediately. \u2018There it is again!\u2019 he said anxiously. \u2018Something is shaking Pa \u2026 I can feel it! Its \u2026.\u2019 His eyes widened again.\u2019 It\u2019s here,\u2019 he said urgently, grabbing his father\u2019s hand and placing it on the track beside him. \u2018It\u2019s the track.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben stared at his hand as his blood ran cold, feeling the track shaking slightly under his fingers. \u2018Can you feel it Pa?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben swallowed, every fibre of his being seemingly disconnected from the other and his mind trying to retreat into denial. \u2018It\u2019s nothing son,\u2019 he said, hearing his own voice as if from a great distance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018But its shaking Pa,\u2019 insisted Joe anxiously. \u2018I can feel it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben turned to Hoss who was staring at him, his blue eyes seeming to pierce right through Ben\u2019s soul. \u2018Try again!\u2019 Ben said, trying not to sound panicked. \u2018Hurry!\u00a0 Hoss continued to stare at him, gulping several times. Ben grabbed hold of his son\u2019s arm. \u2018I said try again!\u2019 he said insistently. \u2018Hoss!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Hoss gulped again, his eyes reflecting his father\u2019s own panicked ones, before grabbing hold of the crowbar beside him and digging it under the track and pushing on it with all his might.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 shouted Joe, clutching hold of his father\u2019s sleeve. \u2018It\u2019s shaking!\u00a0 Its \u2026.\u2019 His voice caught on a sob and his eyes reflected his terror as the realisation dawned on him as to what the shaking was. \u2018It\u2019s a train!\u00a0 A train\u2019s coming Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben grabbed hold of his son and held him in towards his chest tightly while yelling at Hoss. \u2018Push it!\u2019 he shouted. He grabbed hold of the crowbar with his free hand and tried to push on it as well, while Joe sobbed hysterically into his chest.<\/p>\n

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Clem Myers yawned as he looked at the scenery rushing past him.\u00a0 There were days when he was so bored with this job and then there were others when it was all worthwhile \u2026 like today.\u00a0 The usual circumstances yesterday that had forced his engine to Reno had been frustrating at the time, but at least it had meant that he could view a bit of changed scenery this morning instead of the usual between Carson City and Virginia City.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t often get the chance to see the countryside this side of the Truckee River and it made a pleasant change.<\/p>\n

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Mind you, the delays yesterday had meant that he\u2019d had to get the train out before down today and that hadn\u2019t been easy.\u00a0 He yawned again, looking over his shoulder at Bert who was busy stoking the fire.\u00a0 At least his job was a less physically taxing one, for at his age there was nothing he\u2019d be wanting to do less than working over a hot furnace like that.\u00a0 Still \u2026 Bert didn\u2019t seem to mind it.<\/p>\n

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His eyes drifted back to the hills on his right again and he spied a man dressed in black approaching the track from afar. \u2018Look at that,\u2019 he yelled over the noise of the engine. \u2018Fellar over there seems to be in an awful hurry, don\u2019t ya reckon Bert?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Bert straightened up and looked over his shoulder. \u2018Reckon so,\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Too much of a hurry if ya ask me!\u2019 He shrugged as the rider and horse drew level with the tracks. \u2018Probably one of them young whippersnappers trying his riding skills out by racing us,\u2019 he sneered. \u2018They\u2019ll never learn that this beauty ain\u2019t ready ta be beat!\u2019\u00a0 He patted the side of the carriage and then bent down and shovelled another couple of loads of coal into the furnace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Clem smiled. Bert had no time for anyone who thought they could outrun his engine. As far as he was concerned trains were invincible and if he were being honest with himself, Clem tended to agree with him.\u00a0 The young rider waved to him and he waved back, grinning at him as he did so.\u00a0 The man seemed to be mouthing something at them, but there was no way that Clem or Bert could have heard him over the noise of the mighty engine.\u00a0 Clem simply waved back and smiled again as the train thundered down the track towards Virginia City.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Pa!\u2019 screamed Joe, panic overtaking him. \u2018Pa!\u00a0 There\u2019s a train coming! I can feel it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben clutched his son even tighter to his chest as if the gesture would solve everything.\u00a0 Joe tried to wrench himself free and pushed against his father frantically. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he screamed. \u2018Get me off here!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben took one more look at Hoss who was frantically pulling at the crowbar and then back to the top of Joe\u2019s curly head against his chest. \u2018I\u2019m going to move him,\u2019 he yelled at Hoss. \u2018Watch out Hoss!\u2019\u00a0 Hoss looked at his father questionably as he continued to work.\u00a0 Ben pulled Joe tighter to himself and yelled into his ear. \u2018Move Joseph!\u2019 he said urgently. \u2018Let me move you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Joe immediately went slack in his arms, his body responding to the voice he had always trusted and always obeyed instinctively.\u00a0 Ben took the opportunity to pull his son even further towards himself, ignoring Joe\u2019s cries of pain as he did so.\u00a0 He pulled the youngster across the track until he was lying beside it instead of on top of it, only his trapped foot now in danger.\u00a0 Joe lay panting on the ground as Hoss and Ben stared at his foot. \u2018Lean over this way Joseph,\u2019 said Ben, trying to sound as calm as he could. \u2018We\u2019ll get your foot free son.\u00a0 There\u2019s no need to panic.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe leant as far as he could away from the track, unable to stop crying with the pain as he stretched his trapped foot back as far as he could. \u2018I \u2026 I can\u2019t go no further Pa,\u2019 he gasped between spasms of pain. He stared at his foot and sobbed. \u2018The train Pa \u2026 it\u2019s coming!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know son,\u2019 said Ben quietly. \u2018Just lean over this way \u2026 that\u2019s it.\u2019\u00a0 He clutched hold of Joe\u2019s face and turned it towards his own, trying to ignore the look of sheer panic and desperation within his green eyes. \u2018Now I want you to lie still,\u2019 he said, his voice coming from a very long way away. \u2018If it does come then you\u2019ll be all right.\u00a0 You\u2019re off the track now.\u2019 He continued to stare into the youngster\u2019s eyes, trying to calm with a reassuring look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head, trying to wrench his foot free and sobbing even louder with the pain that it caused him. \u2018It\u2019ll get my foot!\u2019 he screamed. \u2018It\u2019ll \u2026 it\u2019ll cut it off!\u2019\u00a0 His eyes widened even more in panic. \u2018Help me Pa!\u2019 he screamed. \u2018Get it off!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cradled his son\u2019s curly head within the comforting embrace of his arms. \u2018I\u2019m here Joseph,\u2019 he said quietly, as he felt the track rumbling under his body. \u2018I\u2019m not moving away. I\u2019m here son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sobbed even louder. \u2018Get off the track Pa!\u2019 he screamed. \u2018It\u2019ll hit you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head and continued to look into his son\u2019s eyes, ignoring the rumbling sound beneath him. \u2018Just calm down Joe,\u2019 he said soothingly. \u2018Calm down son. I\u2019m here with you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa it\u2019s loosening,\u2019 yelled Hoss.\u00a0 Ben reached over and tried to push the track sideways with his bare hands as Hoss strained at the end of the crowbar. \u2018His foot\u2019s in the way like this!\u2019 yelled Hoss. \u2018I can\u2019t get at it from the angle he\u2019s at.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked down at his son\u2019s foot, wedged between the tracks.\u00a0 In that instant he saw very clearly what he had to do and with one last pat of Joe\u2019s curly head he let go of his son\u2019s body and grabbed hold of the boy\u2019s ankle with both hands.\u00a0 With every bit of force that he could muster he held onto to Joe\u2019s slim ankle and pulled down on it in two different directions until he felt the bone snapping beneath his hands.\u00a0 Joe gave a piercing scream and fell backwards in a dead faint.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now!\u2019 shouted Ben as he glanced over his shoulder and saw a train appearing from around the bend. \u2018Pull on it Hoss! Pull!\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

Adam waved frantically at the driver yet again, screaming at the top of his lungs as they rounded the bend. His heart nearly stopped as he saw in front of them three forms huddled over the line in the distance and he could swear that he saw the whites of the driver\u2019s eyes as they widened with surprise as he saw them also.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam spurred his mount forward as he heard the screech of brakes being applied. He knew that there was no way that they could take effect in time, but he didn\u2019t know what else to do except keep riding towards the appalling scene of destruction that would soon be in front of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From down the track, Ben and Hoss also heard the screech as the brakes were applied.\u00a0 Neither one hesitated in their endeavours to free Joe, the only acknowledgement from either one of them a look of terror that flashed through their eyes as the sound wrenched the air around them.\u00a0 Hoss closed his eyes and leant the whole of his considerable body weight down on the crowbar while Ben grasped hold of Joe\u2019s broken ankle and pulled on it.\u00a0 The rusted track gave way slightly and his son\u2019s foot slid out into his hands in one swift movement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben let go of Joe\u2019s ankle with one hand, while he reached over and pushed Hoss backwards with it.\u00a0 With the one hand still firmly grasping Joe\u2019s ankle he pulled it towards him as the heat of metal came so close to his cheek that he could almost feel it grazing him as the train thundered past.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drew his horse to a halt on the other side of the train, tears streaming down his face as he watched the carriages flashing by.\u00a0 One part of him willed the train to never stop as he dreaded seeing what was on the other side of it when it finally did, and the other part of him wanted desperately to know for sure. As the train slowed to a halt and the last carriage slid away from beside him, he caught his breath.\u00a0 There on the other side of the track lay his father, cradling Joe\u2019s body in his arms as Hoss stood over them, tears also streaming down his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dismounted as if in a trance and walked across the now empty line, ignoring the cries of the two men who were getting out of the engine at the other end of the train. All he could focus on was the sight of his father cradling his brother\u2019s seemingly dead body in his arms and Adam stood over him for a moment, unable to speak.\u00a0 Finally, he slid to a crouching position next to him and whispered. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Pa. I \u2026 I tried.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked over at his eldest son and saw the remorse and guilt in his face. He reached out for him with one hand while continuing to hold Joe towards him in the other. Adam leant towards his father, burying his head into his shoulder. \u2018I\u2019m so sorry Pa,\u2019 he sobbed. \u2018I couldn\u2019t save him. I \u2026 I tried.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Be smiled down at Joe\u2019s unconscious body and began to cry himself. \u2018He\u2019s all right son,\u2019 he whispered over and over again. \u2018He\u2019s all right.\u2019\u00a0 Standing over them both, Hoss\u2019 tears fell.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam opened the front door and walked outside onto the porch.\u00a0 He stood there for a moment, drinking in the smell of the pine trees and listening to the wind rushing through them. He closed his eyes momentarily and said a silent prayer before turning towards his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was sitting at the rustic wooden table under the study window. He was hunched forward on his chair and his shoulders were bowed as if the weight of the world were upon them.\u00a0 Adam noticed that his eyes were shut as if he were also in prayer and that his brow was furrowed as if he were anxious about something. He walked over and sat down next to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Penny for your thoughts,\u2019 he said casually and noted with alarm the look in his father\u2019s eyes as he opened them.\u00a0 He looked into the deep brown eyes and saw within them a look that made him return the frown that his father gave him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You up already?\u2019 he said curtly. \u2018I thought everyone might be in bed late this morning after everything that happened yesterday.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u2018I couldn\u2019t sleep,\u2019 he said simply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Neither could I,\u2019 he said and then looked down and stared at his hands in his lap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was silence for a few moments before Adam broke it again. \u2018What\u2019s wrong?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled as he continued to look at his hands. \u2018What makes you think anything is wrong?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Because I know you,\u2019 replied his son. \u2018What is it Pa?\u00a0 Joe\u2019s fine now. You heard the doctor say that his ankle will set neatly and there\u2019s no sign of infection from that nail \u2026 so what is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled again. \u2018You know me well, don\u2019t you?\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I should,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I\u2019ve had years to practise, remember?\u00a0 What is it Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018I keep remembering, that\u2019s all,\u2019 he said. \u2018I just can\u2019t get the thought out of my mind about what could have happened \u2026 what nearly did happen,\u2019 he finished with a shudder. He clenched and unclenched his fists. \u2018I can still \u2026. feel \u2026 \u2018he grimaced. \u2018I can still feel Joe\u2019s ankle in my hands as I \u2026\u2019\u00a0 he stopped and shook his head. \u2018I can still feel the bone snapping in my hands,\u2019 he finished. \u2018How could I have done that to him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his hand on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u2018You did it because you had to,\u2019 he said. \u2018If you hadn\u2019t done it Pa, then he\u2019d be dead now.\u00a0 You know that.\u2019\u00a0 Ben nodded, but said nothing. \u2018You did what you\u2019ve always done,\u2019 continued Adam. \u2018Anything you had to do, to make sure that the three of us are all right. You\u2019ve never done any less and you never will.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up and stared at Adam for a moment and then nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said simply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe\u2019s ankle will heal in time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I guess I\u2019m just \u2026\u2019\u00a0 there was a loud bang from upstairs and he frowned. \u2018What in tarnation \u2026\u2019 he began and then laughed. \u2018I guess your brothers are up as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was yelling from above them. \u2018Quit it Joe!\u2019 shouted Hoss. \u2018Will ya give that back to me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave a short laugh. \u2018I wonder how I\u2019m going to keep that boy occupied while his ankle is healing?\u2019 he said, half to himself. There was another bang, followed by Joe\u2019s unmistakeable giggle and another shout from Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said ta give it back, you weasel!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018I guess we\u2019re getting back to normal,\u2019 he said with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I guess so,\u2019 Adam agreed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood up. \u2018If I have to come up there you\u2019ll regret it young man!\u2019 he shouted and then gave Adam a wink before disappearing into the house.\u00a0 Adam sat back on his chair and put his arms behind his head as he stared up at the tops of the pines and continued to smell their fragrance contentedly.<\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0The Cartwrights battle to save Joe\u2019s life when his foot becomes trapped in between railway lines\u00a0<\/p>\n

Rated: K (10,950 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":14923,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2017","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2193,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/tracks.jpg?fit=259%2C194&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":22994,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=22994","url_meta":{"origin":2017,"position":0},"title":"Jeremiah (by Hart4Ben)","author":"Hart4Ben","date":"June 26, 2019","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Hoss has an unusual gift for Little Joe. A prequel challenge piece. Rating: K WC: 510","rel":"","context":"In "Hoss \/ Joe"","block_context":{"text":"Hoss \/ Joe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1092"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/bullfrog-2.jpg?fit=694%2C451&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/bullfrog-2.jpg?fit=694%2C451&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/bullfrog-2.jpg?fit=694%2C451&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":63029,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=63029","url_meta":{"origin":2017,"position":1},"title":"The Next Mrs. Cartwright (by JoanS.)","author":"JoanS","date":"June 11, 2005","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Ben\u2019s sons decide that it is time their father was married again, so they set out to find him a new wife. Rating:\u00a0 G\u00a0 16,560 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\/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":411,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=411","url_meta":{"origin":2017,"position":2},"title":"1865 (by JoanS)","author":"JoanS","date":"September 5, 2009","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 The more things change the more things stay the same.\u00a0 Twelve looks at the Cartwrights during 1865. Rating - K -\u00a0Intended for general audience 5 years and older.\u00a0 (11,970 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\/02\/coming-soon-4.jpg?fit=320%2C240&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":23190,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=23190","url_meta":{"origin":2017,"position":3},"title":"Cartwright Confessions (by AC1830)","author":"AC1830","date":"July 26, 2019","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Four vignettes in which the each Cartwright decides to share a hidden truth with the others. Rating - K, WC - 823\u00a0","rel":"","context":"In "Family"","block_context":{"text":"Family","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1008"},"img":{"alt_text":"joe, adam, hoss, ben","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Honor-of-Cochise.png?fit=599%2C449&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Honor-of-Cochise.png?fit=599%2C449&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Honor-of-Cochise.png?fit=599%2C449&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":14276,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14276","url_meta":{"origin":2017,"position":4},"title":"To the Victors (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 10, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe defies, deceives, and disobeys his father all to enter the Founder's Day Race. Rating: \u00a0T \u00a0(14,070 words) To the Victors Series, links to all the stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2280,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2280","url_meta":{"origin":2017,"position":5},"title":"And So The Sad Tale Begins (by JoanS)","author":"JoanS","date":"September 7, 2009","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Ben comes home to find trouble in the house Rated: K (6,270 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Ben Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Ben Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1004"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Ben-and-Adam-1.png?fit=629%2C435&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Ben-and-Adam-1.png?fit=629%2C435&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Ben-and-Adam-1.png?fit=629%2C435&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\/2017","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=2017"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2017\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/14923"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2017"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2017"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2017"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}