{"id":2066,"date":"2009-09-06T15:38:28","date_gmt":"2009-09-06T19:38:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2066"},"modified":"2026-03-07T18:59:41","modified_gmt":"2026-03-07T23:59:41","slug":"my-brother-my-enemy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2066","title":{"rendered":"My Brother, My Enemy (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>The Civil War causes a rift in the Cartwright family<\/span><\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span>\u00a0T (29,535 words)
\n<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

My Brother, My Enemy<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

PART 1<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong>Fort<\/em><\/strong><\/span>\u00a0McAllister<\/span><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

October 1864<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shuddered involuntarily, although whether from fear or the cold, he wasn\u2019t sure.\u00a0 All he knew was that there was a deep-seated need within him to warm up, and he stood up to pace again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Six steps forwards, four steps across and six steps back again.<\/em>\u00a0 How many times had he counted it out?\u00a0What, do ya think it\u2019s gonna change suddenly?<\/em>\u00a0he asked himself as he continued to pace.\u00a0 Wake up to yourself Joe, nothing here ever changes. Except when\u00a0they<\/strong>\u00a0decide it will.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He shuddered again, and sat down on the hard stone floor.\u00a0 Sighing, he drew his knees to his chest and folded his arms around them and put his head down.\u00a0\u00a0How much longer is this gonna take? What more can they possibly ask me?\u00a0 Don\u2019t they understand by now that I don\u2019t know anything?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

He looked up at the tiny window far above him, and stretched to catch a glimpse of the small square of sunlight that filtered through.\u00a0Still daylight. At least that helps to keep it a bit warmer.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe closed his eyes and imagined he was sitting in front of the fireplace at home.\u00a0 If he concentrated hard enough he could almost feel the warmth and hear the crackling of the logs that he would have cut himself as part of his daily chores.\u00a0 It was strange how he had always resented having to do those mundane things, and now he would have given anything to only have his chores to worry about.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Wonder how long I\u2019ve been here now?<\/em>\u00a0 Joe thought back to the day they had brought him in. The day his whole world had collapsed around him and he had literally come crashing to the ground, helpless as a day-old kitten.\u00a0 He smiled as he remembered the showing off he had done with his riding to impress the officers.\u00a0 It was his expertise with horses that had brought him here in the end, for if he hadn\u2019t shown off so much he could well be back with the others now, instead of here in this stinking jail cell.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Yes he decided, it had all started that day with the Captain. Yet even as Joe allowed this thought to take hold of him he knew it wasn\u2019t true, for it had really started that day two months ago when he had fought so hard with his Pa. It had been such a stupid fight really, but one that had such far-reaching consequences for them all.\u00a0 And especially him!\u00a0 Joe closed his eyes as he thought back to that day last August.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ponderosa Ranch\u00a0<\/em>Nevada<\/em>\u00a0August 1864<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The front door burst open and hit the wall with a bang, causing Ben Cartwright to jump in his chair and drop his pen.\u00a0 He frowned as he picked it up again, and looked up to see his youngest son running across the room towards him waving an envelope in his hand.\u00a0 \u2018Pa!\u00a0 There\u2019s a letter come!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you Joseph,\u2019 Ben replied frostily. \u2018But do you think you could announce the arrival of the mail in less dramatic terms please?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned at him and continued to wave the envelope in the air. \u2018But you don\u2019t understand Pa!\u00a0 It\u2019s from Adam!\u00a0 A letter\u2019s come from Adam!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stood up and grabbed for the letter, managing to wrest it from the boy\u2019s grasp as it passed by his head again.\u00a0 He sat down again and eagerly reached for his letter opener as Hoss entered the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s all the ruckus about?\u2019 he asked, and then grinned to see what was in his father\u2019s hand. \u2018Is it from Adam?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head eagerly. \u2018Yup. Sure is!\u2019\u00a0 He sat down on the edge of his father\u2019s desk and leant forward to try to read the contents over his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at them both. \u2018He\u2019s alright,\u2019 he said with a sigh and then looked down at the page again. \u2018He can\u2019t say where he is of course, but he\u2019s alright.\u2019\u00a0 He smiled. \u2018It seems like your brother is not having too bad a time after all. Joseph, get off my desk please,\u2019 he said automatically as he stood up and moved around towards them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stood up and grinned guiltily at his father. \u2018Well, what does he say Pa?\u2019 he asked as he followed him over to the settee. \u2018What\u2019s he doing?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss sat down on the blue chair next to the settee and patiently waited for his father to begin to read. \u2018What do ya think he\u2019s doin little brother?\u00a0 Ya don\u2019t go all that way ta join a war to sit and do nothing ya know!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe punched him playfully on the head as he perched himself on the arm of the chair. \u2018Go on Pa, read it!\u2019 he said eagerly. \u2018I want to hear all the exciting bits.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben frowned at his youngest son. \u2018There is nothing exciting about war Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018Your brother didn\u2019t go because he thought it would be exciting, he went because he felt it was the right thing to do.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe rolled his eyes. \u2018Yeah, yeah I know Pa!\u00a0 Like you\u2019ve said before. I know!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben bent his head and began to read the letter to his two sons.\u00a0 Hoss listened with a worried look on his face, anxious to know just how his older brother was really doing so far from home.\u00a0 Joe on the other hand, listened intently with a sparkle in his eyes.\u00a0 Every sentence seemed to describe adventures that he had only ever dreamed about.\u00a0 He marvelled at the way all the names of places so far away just seemed to rattle off his father\u2019s tongue as he read.\u00a0 His brother\u2019s adventures seemed to him to be glorious and exciting, and Joe hung on every word as his father described in detail the movements of Adam\u2019s Division and the part that he was playing in their campaign.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s had another promotion,\u2019 Ben said with pride. \u2018It\u2019s Captain Cartwright now.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Wow!\u2019 said Joe, his eyes still shining. \u2018That\u2019s great ain\u2019t it Pa? He\u2019ll probably end up a General or something if the war goes on for much longer.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well let\u2019s pray that it doesn\u2019t go on for much longer,\u2019 his father said as he folded up the letter and returned it to its envelope. \u2018I\u2019d like to think that it won\u2019t be too much longer before Adam makes it back to us.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Shouldn\u2019t be too long,\u2019 said Hoss.\u00a0 \u2018The way the papers are describing it, they\u2019ve got the Rebs on the run all over the place.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned as he contemplated his innermost thoughts. \u2018Do you reckon that\u2019s true Pa? Do you really think it\u2019ll be over soon?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sighed as he stood up and walked over to the fireplace. \u2018I don\u2019t know son. All I know is that I pray for that every day.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I still don\u2019t see why Adam had to go,\u2019 said Hoss as he looked into the fire. \u2018Isn\u2019t like it affects us out here, after all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It does affect us!\u2019 countered Joe. \u2018It affects all of us, ain\u2019t that right Pa?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sighed again. \u2018Yes unfortunately Joseph I think that\u2019s true. \u2018That\u2019s why Adam felt he had to go anyway. He felt that he had to help fight for a principle that\u2019s important for our whole country regardless of where we live.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hmm!\u2019 Joe snorted. \u2018Principle!\u00a0 Adam just wanted to get away from here for a while and see something different that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben rounded on the boy and shook his finger at him. \u2018Don\u2019t speak about things you know nothing about Joseph!\u00a0 Your brother did what he felt he had to, not because of any selfish reason, but because he wanted to stand up for what is right!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stood and glared at his father. \u2018Right!\u00a0 What\u2019s so right about taking away from thousands of people what\u2019s theirs anyways?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss sighed. This argument between his brother and his father was one he had heard many times before, and he was heartily sick of it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So you believe in a person\u2019s right to own a human being in slavery then Joseph?\u2019 his father spat back at him.\u00a0 \u2018I thought I had raised you to know what was right.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No of course I don\u2019t!\u2019 Joe countered. \u2018But I do believe that no one has the right to impose their will on others.\u00a0 And there\u2019s more to this war to slavery.\u00a0 The North are just trying to get their hands on the wealth of the South.\u00a0 That\u2019s what it says in the papers!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Depends which ones ya read,\u2019 murmured Hoss. \u2018Joe, why don\u2019t ya just simmer down and fergit all about who\u2019s right and wrong in this?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned to him. \u2018Why should I simmer down?\u2019 he asked as he jutted out his jaw and flashed his eyes.\u00a0 Hoss shook his head as he witnessed his brother\u2019s \u2018stubborn look\u2019 as they all termed it.\u00a0 There was usually no reasoning with him when he got like this.\u00a0 \u2018Why should I say I agree with something if I don\u2019t?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put his hand on his son\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Joseph I raised you to have your own opinions and stand by them.\u00a0 But you just don\u2019t understand the intricacies of this war. You\u2019re too young to know what it\u2019s all about really.\u00a0 Adam \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe flung his father\u2019s hand off. \u2018Adam knows of course!\u2019 he finished for his father. \u2018Adam always knows everything, whereas I\u2019m always too young to understand aren\u2019t I Pa?\u00a0 Well I\u2019m nineteen now, and I\u2019m old enough to know my own mind.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018That is not what I was going to say,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018I don\u2019t care if you are nineteen or ninety young man, I am still your father and I expect you to keep a civil tongue in your head when you speak to me!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u2018Sorry Pa, but I just get so mad sometimes!\u00a0 It seems like everyone else gets to go and fight, and all I get to do is stay around here and read about it!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Why on earth would ya want ta go and be part of all that?\u2019 asked Hoss genuinely surprised. \u2018I can\u2019t think of anything worse!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat down next to his brother and leant towards him. \u2018Don\u2019t you think it\u2019d be real exciting Hoss?\u00a0 Just think about it.\u00a0 Fighting for something that you believe in, seeing places you\u2019ve only read about, doing \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph, that is enough!\u2019 his father interrupted. \u2018I don\u2019t want to hear you talk like that about an event that is causing misery and hardship to so many people.\u00a0 Isn\u2019t it bad enough having your brother gone without you wanting to be there too?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned. \u2018Well I can dream can\u2019t I Pa?\u2019 he asked sulkily. \u2018Seems I\u2019ll never get to do anything about it!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well that\u2019s true enough,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018You can just get any thoughts of going off to fight out of your mind young man.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe jutted his jaw out again. \u2018Adam got to go!\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put his hands on his hips in the classic Cartwright stance. \u2018Adam is a lot older than you!\u2019 he said. \u2018And even if I didn\u2019t agree with him going, I couldn\u2019t have stopped him.\u00a0 He\u2019s a grown man, whereas you are \u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing but a boy!\u2019 finished Joe. \u2018I know Pa!\u00a0 You\u2019ve said it all before!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Then don\u2019t make me repeat it again,\u2019 answered his father. \u2018Honestly Joseph, why can\u2019t you just for once settle down and listen to reason? You are nineteen years old and still a minor.\u00a0 Unless I give you my permission to join up you won\u2019t be going anywhere, and I can assure you young man I have no intention of giving it!\u00a0 One son caught up in this nightmare is enough!\u2019 He stood up and turned on his heel, slamming the front door behind him as he left the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hi little buddy, whatcha doin up here?\u2019\u00a0 Hoss sat down next to his younger brother and studied his profile as he continued to look at the lake.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What I always do.\u00a0 Think!\u2019\u00a0 Joe replied without taking his eyes away from the blueness in front of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss tapped him on the shoulder and grinned at him. \u2018Well I know that!\u00a0 But what I meant was ain\u2019t ya out working on them fences like Pa told ya to?\u00a0 He\u2019s gonna be mighty mad with ya!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned. \u2018Don\u2019t see how he can get any madder than he already is!\u2019 he said.\u00a0 \u2018Seems like every time I turn around lately he\u2019s getting on my back about something.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He ain\u2019t ya know,\u2019 said Hoss quietly. \u2018It\u2019s you little buddy, not Pa.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned to face him. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018You can\u2019t be serious Hoss!\u00a0 What have I done?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss laughed. \u2018Ya funning me Joe ain\u2019t ya?\u00a0 Ya can\u2019t honestly say ya haven\u2019t been hard ta live with lately!\u00a0 Every time Pa or me looks sideways at ya, we get our heads bitten off!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hung his head and rested it on his knees. \u2018I don\u2019t mean to,\u2019 he said quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Ya not still thinking about how ya missing out on the war, are ya?\u2019 Hoss asked. \u2018Cause if ya are then ya just plain stupid!\u00a0 Why would ya want ta go and leave all this anyways?\u2019\u00a0 He waved his hand at the lake in front of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t want to leave all this!\u2019\u00a0 Joe said. \u2018It\u2019s just that \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh I don\u2019t know!\u2019\u00a0 He sighed with exasperation. \u2018I guess I\u2019m just restless or something.\u00a0 I don\u2019t want to leave all this Hoss, honest I don\u2019t.\u2019 He looked at his brother with his green eyes flashing. \u2018But I\u2019m just sick of seeing the same old things day in and day out.\u00a0 I want a change I guess.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well ask Pa if ya can go ta San Francisco or something.\u00a0 There\u2019s no need ta get fired up about all that other stuff is there?\u2019\u00a0 Hoss looked at his brother pleadingly. \u2018Losing Adam was bad enough without you too!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pushed his brother\u2019s arm. \u2018Don\u2019t be stupid Hoss!\u00a0 Of course you\u2019re not losing me! You heard Pa say I couldn\u2019t go.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah I heard him, but I also know you little buddy.\u00a0 Usually when we tell ya to do something ya break ya neck ta do the opposite though instead!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned at him. \u2018I\u2019m not that bad am I?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Worse,\u2019 said Hoss returning the grin and leaning back in the grass as he spoke. \u2018Ya just plain ornery I guess! Always were, even when ya was a little un. If we told ya something was white, ya\u2019d say it was black.\u00a0 Always had ta have an argument about something or other, specially with Adam.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah, I remember.\u00a0 Still like to argue with him ya know,\u2019 Joe replied. \u2018Guess that\u2019s why I miss him so much.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Is that why you\u2019re so dadblamed keen ta join the opposite side ta him?\u2019 asked Hoss. \u2018Ya can\u2019t even agree to be on the same side in a war.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his brother for a moment startled. He\u2019d never thought about that! \u2018I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he said sheepishly. \u2018I just think I belong to the South cause of her.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated the stone that marked his mother\u2019s grave beside them. \u2018Guess I didn\u2019t think about being on the opposite side to Adam at all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well ya\u2019d better think about it,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Who\u2019d ta say yer Ma would want ya to be on the side of the South anyway?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned. \u2018Cause she would!\u00a0 She was from there wasn\u2019t she?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Well you\u2019re not!\u00a0 You\u2019re from here, and we don\u2019t belong to either side!\u00a0 Now come on little buddy, or we\u2019ll both be in trouble from Pa for getting nothing done at all today!\u2019\u00a0 He pulled his younger brother up by the shoulders and turned him towards their horses before Joe could react.\u00a0 \u2018Come on, move it!\u2019\u00a0 He said as he pushed him up the hill in front of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Since when did you get so bossy?\u2019 Joe said over his shoulder as he moved towards their horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Since Adam went away I guess,\u2019 replied Hoss with a grin. \u2018Someone has ta take his place and make sure that ya do as ya\u2019re told!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The two brothers mounted their horses and began to move up the hill away from the lake.\u00a0 As he disappeared over the top of the rise, Joe looked back and searched for the stone that stood out like a marker on the shore.\u00a0Bye mama,<\/em>\u00a0he said silently as he turned and followed his brother over the crest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

——————<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph I think we need to clear the air about something,\u2019 Ben said as he urged the horses forward and looked at his youngest son beside him on the buckboard.\u00a0 Joe glanced at his father and bit his lip as he waited for the onslaught of his anger.\u00a0 Those words usually signalled something that Joe had done and was about to be in trouble for, and he searched his brain to come up with what it might be this time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What about Pa?\u2019 he finally asked when several moments had passed and his father hadn\u2019t volunteered any more information.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018About our conversation yesterday of course,\u2019 replied Ben. \u00a0\u2018It\u2019s just that I don\u2019t want you to make the same mistakes I did in life boy, that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Huh?\u2019\u00a0 Joe was lost as to where this conversation was leading, and needed clarification before he said something that he might regret later.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018When you said that all you got to do was stay around here instead of experiencing life,\u2019 Ben continued patiently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Yeah well, don\u2019t take any notice of me Pa.\u00a0 Sometimes I just say things without thinking, you know that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I do know that Joseph,\u2019 said his father. \u2018But I also know just how unsettled you have been lately,\u2019 he held up his hand as Joe started to interrupt, \u2018and we\u2019ve all had to wear your bad temper because of it.\u2019\u00a0 Joe fell silent as his father continued. \u2018I know you are frustrated boy, but I want you to understand just how things are. You see I do know how you feel, because I\u2019ve experienced something similar in my life too.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father with a puzzled expression. \u2018You have Pa?\u00a0 When?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled at him. \u2018A long time ago Joe, when I was younger than you in fact.\u00a0 All I wanted to do was leave home and spread my wings, but my father forbade it.\u00a0 He knew that my desire to go to sea was one that I wasn\u2019t ready for, but could he convince me?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat, intrigued by this insight to his father that he had never known before. \u2018I don\u2019t know Pa, could he?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No he couldn\u2019t.\u00a0 I took no notice of him and ran off.\u00a0 I know now that it was a stupid thing to do, but at the time I thought I was going to save the world or something.\u2019\u00a0 Ben glanced at his son and caught his eye, before Joe looked away with an embarrassed expression on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018But you loved the sea Pa,\u2019 Joe said in a quiet tone. \u2018You always told us that you did!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I did, but not at first.\u00a0 It took a long time for me to really grow into it, and for that first couple of years I had a horrible time trying to live in a man\u2019s world when I was no more than a boy,\u2019 Ben replied.\u00a0 \u2018Your grandfather was right and I knew it not long after I left, but I was far too stubborn to ever admit it and of course by then it was too late.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There was silence for a few moments as Joe digested this information.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So you see Joseph, I just don\u2019t want you to make the same mistake that I did.\u00a0 I know this war sounds terribly exciting to you, but believe me son it isn\u2019t.\u2019\u00a0 He laid a hand on Joe\u2019s leg. \u2018Think about it Joe, you\u2019ve got plenty of time to be a part of things that are happening in this world.\u00a0 Don\u2019t try and grow up too soon, son.\u2019 He smiled at him again. \u2018I\u2019d like to keep you as my baby for a while longer you know.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe tensed beside him. \u2018But I\u2019m not a baby Pa, I keep telling you that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018And I don\u2019t mean to treat you like one Joe, but it\u2019s hard for a father to accept that his children are growing up you know. Adam has gone and Hoss is his own man now. I\u2019d like to think that I have at least one of you for a while longer.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled at his father to reassure him, but inside he was frustrated and depressed. Couldn\u2019t his father see that he wasn\u2019t the boy he thought he was?\u00a0 Why was it that every time he tried to show him just how grown up he really was, he reminded him just how much growing up he still had to do?\u00a0 Joe figured it part of the curse of being a youngest son, and he gave an exaggerated sigh that made his father smile even more. Father and son, each lost in their own thoughts, sat in silence as they travelled towards the distant town.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So what does it say Pa?\u2019 Joe craned his neck to look over his father\u2019s shoulder at the newspaper he was holding. \u2018Where are the troops now?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben glared at him as he tried to read. \u2018Joseph give me a chance will you please?\u2019 he snapped. \u2018I can\u2019t read with you hanging on like that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stepped back a step and onto the foot of one of the men who had clustered around them when they saw the paper in Ben\u2019s hand. He gestured his apology and turned to his father again. \u2018Sorry Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018But what does it say?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018General Hood\u2019s Battalion is all but destroyed after one defeat after another.\u00a0 Battles at Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville have all but decimated the Confederate Army.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Wow!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Sounds like they was some battles!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Let\u2019s just hope no one we know was there,\u2019 his father said, and several of the men surrounding them nodded their agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben bent his head again and continued. \u2018General Sherman is advancing upon Atlanta, and if taken this could be a major turning point in the War.\u2019 He folded the paper over.\u00a0 It seems like the Confederates are on the run on all fronts,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes were gleaming as he said eagerly, \u2018They\u2019ll turn em back, don\u2019t you worry Pa!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben studied his youngest son, frowning as he did so. \u2018I\u2019m not worried Joseph.\u00a0 And I sincerely hope they don\u2019t.\u00a0 The sooner this War is over the better!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe bit his lip as he said more subdued this time, \u2018But, I only meant \u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Ya listen to ya Pa, youngster,\u2019 said an old man who was standing next to him. \u2018He\u2019s right!\u00a0 Them Rebs got no business turning anything around!\u00a0 Sherman and his boys\u2019ll trample em into the ground before long!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned and glared at him. \u2018Will not!\u2019 he declared. \u2018The Confederates just need the chance, and they\u2019ll have them Yankees on the run soon enough!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The old man shook his head. \u2018Ya don\u2019t know what ya talking about sonny,\u2019 he said. Why all it\u2019ll take will be \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned away from him towards his father with a sneer on his face. \u2018Pa, don\u2019t ya think there\u2019s more to this?\u00a0 If the \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben caught his son by the arm and pulled him away from the crowd, saying loudly as he did so. \u2018Come along Joseph.\u00a0 It\u2019s time we got home.\u00a0 We\u2019ve spent enough time here debating issues.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glared at his father and tried to shake his arm free from his grasp. \u2018But Pa!\u00a0 I want ta tell this guy \u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I said come along Joseph and I mean NOW!\u2019 his father said frostily. Joe stopped struggling when he heard the tone of his father\u2019s voice and allowed himself to be led away. After they had crossed the street and walked a couple of yards away, Ben stopped and faced his son. \u2018How many times have I told you not to get into a brawl over the War?\u2019\u2019 he said pointing his finger at Joe\u2019s nose. \u2018Are you determined to find trouble here?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his arm free. \u2018All I said was\u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018All you said was enough to get yourself into a serious fight!\u00a0 How do I make you understand Joseph that people don\u2019t take too kindly to talk like that?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You mean I can\u2019t even have an opinion any more?\u2019 said Joe jutting his jaw out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Of course you can have an opinion!\u00a0 But at the proper time and in the proper place!\u2019 his father replied.\u00a0 \u2018Not in the middle of the street for everyone to hear! For Heaven\u2019s sake Joseph, have some sense!\u2019\u00a0 He turned and walked towards their buckboard, continuing to speak over his shoulder as he did so. \u2018Get in the buckboard now!\u00a0 I meant it when I said we were over due for home.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stomped after him and sat in the buckboard, pulling his hat down over his face and slumping down on the seat.\u00a0 He looked for all the world like a child having a tantrum, and just confirmed in his father\u2019s mind that the boy had a lot of growing up to do.\u00a0And I thank God for it,\u00a0<\/em>Ben mused.\u00a0Just as well he isn\u2019t grown yet, or I could be losing him too.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s your turn!\u2019 said Hoss for the second time. \u2018Where\u2019s ya mind gone little buddy?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his brother and shook his head slightly. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s your turn,\u2019 repeated Hoss. \u2018Move why don\u2019t ya?\u2019 Joe leant over the chessboard and moved a piece without thinking, and Hoss laughed gleefully as he took another knight. \u2018You sure are an easy mark tonight little buddy!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t respond, but continued to study the board in front of him.\u00a0 As Hoss studied his next move, Joe looked over at his father seated in his favourite easy chair next to the fireplace. Ben was seated comfortably, smoking his pipe while re-reading the newspaper he had bought in town earlier that morning. His eyes were anxiously scanning the pages in front of him, and in his unguarded state Joe noticed a worried look that spoke volumes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright was so used to being in charge of any situation that came his way, that it was rare for him to be feeling like this. He wasn\u2019t sure how to take what was happening at all.\u00a0 First he had lost one son to this insufferable war, and now another was talking about it in such terms as to make his blood run cold. Thank God that Joseph was too young to go!\u00a0 Ben knew that if the youngster had the slightest opportunity he would have been out of there as fast as he could.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stole a look at his sons as they bent their heads over the board.\u00a0 It seemed like only yesterday that they had been children, and now they were men dealing with men\u2019s problems.\u00a0 He sighed to himself as he thought about the years that had been \u2013 the hardships and the tragedies, but also the warm family times they had shared together in this very room.\u00a0 He wondered if they would ever share them again, and sent up a fervent prayer that Adam \u2013 no matter where he was \u2013 was safe at this moment. It was strange how much he missed the boy, and it brought back to mind the years that his oldest son had been at College in Boston.\u00a0 Four years of longing for him, that ended in a wonderful reunion when Adam finally did return to them again.\u00a0 Ben prayed that they would all have the opportunity for another such reunion when the time was right.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He stood up. \u2018I\u2019ll just be outside for a few moments boys checking on the horses.\u00a0 I won\u2019t be long.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked at his father as he left the room. \u2018He really misses Adam ya know.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned at him. \u2018Cause I know!\u00a0 You don\u2019t have to say it every night you know!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss glared at his younger brother. \u2018See Joe?\u00a0 That\u2019s just what I\u2019ve been tryin ta tell ya!\u00a0 Every time I make a comment around here ya bite my head off! Quit it will ya?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pushed another piece on the board. \u2018I\u2019m just sick of you carrying on about it all the time!\u2019 he countered. \u2018We all know how Pa feels, you don\u2019t have to keep on about it!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss stared at him. \u2018Seems ta me like I do little brother. It\u2019s not as if you\u2019ve got much feeling for him at the moment!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stood up, hands on hips, and pointed his finger at his brother. \u2018Don\u2019t you tell me how I feel!\u00a0 You don\u2019t know anything about it!\u2019\u00a0 He turned and stomped up the staircase towards his bedroom, leaving Hoss shaking his head and muttering as he rearranged the pieces on the board back to their original positions again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Upstairs, as Joe sat and looked out of his window at the yard below, he watched his father leaning against the corral fence.\u00a0 His shoulders were slumped and his whole demeanour seemed one of defeat and anxiety.\u00a0\u00a0How can I do this to him?\u00a0<\/em>Joe asked himself.\u00a0I know how hard this is going to be for him when he finds out \u2013 but I \u2026..\u00a0<\/em>\u00a0He hung his head for a moment as he weighed up the alternatives ahead of him and tried to justify his actions.\u00a0\u00a0It\u2019s only for a little while.\u00a0 They all say it\u2019s coming to an end soon, and if I don\u2019t do something about it quickly I\u2019ll miss out!\u00a0 This might be my only chance after all!\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

He looked down at his father again.\u00a0Pa, I know what you said, but\u00a0<\/em>\u2026..\u00a0\u00a0I\u2019m not you Pa!\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry but I have to do this! I wish I knew how to explain it to you properly!\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>He turned from the window and lay down on his bed, staring at the ceiling. Outside his window the mournful sound of an owl penetrated the silence, as he turned away from the window and faced the wall beside him.\u00a0 Sleep would be slow in coming that night!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Fort<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0McAllister<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

October 1864<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe shivered as a sudden burst of wind entered the small room through the tiny window above.\u00a0 He clutched his knees even tighter in an attempt to ward off the cold, and wished he still had the warm topcoat that they had issued him with on that first day.\u00a0 His mind went back to how excited he had been as he had stood in line waiting his turn to sign up, and he smirked to think how na\u00efve he had been as well.\u00a0 Stupid was probably more to the point!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Every time he thought about it now, he marvelled at how little notice he had taken of his father and brother.\u00a0 They had both tried to tell him, but in his usual fashion he had gone ahead and done it anyway, and look where it had got him now.\u00a0 He looked around him at the dark walls and sighed to think of the mistakes he had made.\u00a0 His Pa had been right!\u00a0 He had really thought he was going to set the world on fire \u2013 wasn\u2019t that why he had shown off that day with his riding?\u00a0 Sure they had been impressed, but it hadn\u2019t achieved anything but misery as far as he could see now.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Wonder what my Captain would say if he could see me now?<\/em>\u00a0 he thought.\u00a0 Bet he wouldn\u2019t have so much confidence in me any more.<\/em>\u00a0One thing Joe knew for sure, and that was that he couldn\u2019t give in and give out any information.\u00a0 That wouldn\u2019t be right!\u00a0 But what was the alternative for him?\u00a0 Joe shivered again to think of the things they had said to him, and how he had tried not to show his fear.\u00a0 He knew he had to be loyal to The Cause, but it was going to be really hard that was for sure!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He closed his eyes and thought back to the day when he had sworn his loyalty, in order to remind himself of just how important it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Columbus<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

September 1864<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u2018Quit it will ya!\u2019 the man in front of Joe growled in response as the youngster pushed against him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry,\u2019 Joe replied. \u2018It was someone down \u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Save it will ya kid,\u2019 the man replied giving him a baleful look. He stared for a moment and then continued. \u2018What are ya doing here? Just how old are ya anyway?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe drew himself up to his full height and nearly stood on his tiptoes. \u2018Twenty-one,\u2019 he replied eyeing the man off. \u2018What\u2019s it to you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The other man chuckled. \u2018Yeah right!\u2019 he said. \u2018Why don\u2019t ya go back to ya momma boy, where ya belong!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glared at him. \u2018Why don\u2019t you mind your own business!\u2019 he replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The man laughed again. \u2018Well if they count spunk for extra years, then you\u2019ll get in for sure!\u2019 he said. \u2018Harry Phillips is the name,\u2019 he held out his hand and grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe Cartwright,\u2019 replied Joe, shaking the man\u2019s hand enthusiastically. \u2018Say how long do you think this\u2019ll take Harry?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t know,\u2019 replied Harry as they took another step forward in the line towards the tent. \u2018Seems there\u2019s quite a few trying to get in this week.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe craned his neck to look towards the front of the line. \u2018Not many to go now,\u2019 he said. \u2018Where you from Harry?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018California,\u2019 replied Harry. \u2018Don\u2019t really belong here in a way I suppose, but it\u2019s one way ta get fed. Nothing out West worked out for me, so I thought I\u2019d try the army for a while.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019re from out West too?\u2019 asked Joe, his eyes lighting up. \u2018Gee, so am I!\u00a0 Nevada.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Then what ya doing here?\u2019 questioned Harry. \u2018Seems ya\u2019re a long way from home kid.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018My mother was from Louisiana,\u2019 explained Joe. \u2018Thought I\u2019d fight for my heritage, so to speak.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Harry scratched his head. \u2018Ya sure ya know what ya\u2019re getting yaself into kid?\u2019 he asked. \u2018This ain\u2019t no picnic ya know, and ya\u2019re not really old enough.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned at him. \u2018I told you I was twenty-one!\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah, sure thing kid.\u00a0 Just don\u2019t expect too much from it that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at him puzzled. \u2018What do you mean don\u2019t expect too much?\u00a0 It\u2019s exciting don\u2019t you think?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Harry shook his head at the youngster and was silent for a moment. \u2018Listen kid, why don\u2019t ya go home and have a think about all this.\u00a0 It\u2019s not too late.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t going anywhere!\u2019 Joe replied. \u2018I came to join up and that\u2019s what I\u2019m gonna do!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Harry shook his head again, and then disappeared into the tent as the soldier standing at the head of the line beckoned him.\u00a0 Joe was left standing next to the tent to wait his turn next.\u00a0 As he stood there he glanced around the field and his pulse quickened as he noticed all the grey uniformed men hurrying around completing their various tasks.\u00a0 How interesting it all looked, and how he longed to be a part of it all. He turned quickly as Harry emerged from the tent with a uniform in his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Your turn kid. Good luck!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned at him and ducked down to enter the tent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Over here!\u2019 a voice commanded him, and he turned to see two soldiers seated at a desk strewn with papers. \u2018Name?\u2019 the younger of the two asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph Cartwright.\u2019 Joe watched while his name was entered into the ledger on the table.\u00a0 He sensed rather than saw the older soldier\u2019s eyes upon him staring intently, and he swallowed hoping that he could pull this off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Age?\u2019 the younger soldier asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stood as tall as he could manage. \u2018Twenty-one,\u2019 he replied confidently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The older soldier leant forward. \u2018Age?\u2019 he repeated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned to look him in the eye. \u2018Twenty-one,\u2019 he repeated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men looked at each other. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 the older man said. \u2018I don\u2019t think we can use you. Dismissed.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned at him. \u2018But \u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you!\u2019 he repeated and waved his hand towards the tent entrance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t budge. \u2018Why not?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018We don\u2019t take children, sonny,\u2019 the man replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I told you I\u2019m twenty-one,\u2019 said Joe indignantly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018And I\u2019m twenty-five!\u2019 retorted the man sarcastically. \u2018Now get out and stop wasting our time!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stomped from the tent and glared around him defiantly. He put his hands on his hips and glared over his shoulder at the tent for a moment, then turned to look at the activity around him.Child indeed!\u00a0 I\u2019ll show them! They\u2019re not the only recruiting office in these parts. I\u2019ll just find one who will believe me!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He wandered across the field, depressed to see many of the new recruits trying out their uniforms for the first time.\u00a0 How he longed to be a part of it all!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No luck?\u2019 Harry stood beside him, dressed in his new grey uniform.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018They wouldn\u2019t believe I was old enough,\u2019 he said angrily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well ya can\u2019t blame them, ya don\u2019t look it. How old are ya really kid?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Nineteen,\u2019 Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Seventeen would be more like it,\u2019 said Harry with a grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No really, I\u2019m nineteen,\u2019 said Joe earnestly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah? Well nineteen or seventeen, it ain\u2019t much difference if ya can\u2019t get in is it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I suppose not,\u2019 Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So what are ya gonna do now?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m gonna find me a recruiting officer who will believe me,\u2019 said Joe angrily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Harry shook his head. \u2018Kid, just go home.\u00a0 It ain\u2019t worth it ya know!\u2019\u00a0 He put his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Ya folks must be real worried about ya by now.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his hand away. \u2018Leave me alone and mind your own business!\u2019 he said angrily. He stomped away from the man towards the corral and leant on the fence as he watched the horses being put through their paces. As he stood there he listened to the soldiers on the other side of the fence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t know how the Captain expects us to fill the quota with this lot.\u00a0 There\u2019s not a decent rider amongst them,\u2019 one of the soldiers said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on Thompson. There\u2019s plenty of riders here you know that.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah but nothing special!\u00a0 You know what the Captain said, we\u2019ve got to find men who can really handle tricky situations.\u00a0 Don\u2019t see that we\u2019ve got anyone here who can do that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at the men in the corral and silently agreed with the man.\u00a0 There were some competent riders amongst those that were there, but nothing special.\u00a0\u00a0Not like me!\u00a0<\/em>He thought. If there was one thing Joe knew he was good at, it was riding a horse.\u00a0 He had been on horseback since he could sit up, and felt at his happiest when riding.\u00a0 His father and brothers called him reckless at times, but Joe knew that he didn\u2019t take as many risks as it looked to others.\u00a0 He had such confidence on a horse that it all seemed so natural to him.\u00a0 If what these men were looking for was fine horsemanship, then he\u2019d show them!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sir?\u2019 he said as he approached the two officers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 they stared at the slim youngster in front of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I overheard you talking about needing good riders. I\u2019m looking to enlist, so could I try out?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They laughed. \u2018Sonny, the Cavalry isn\u2019t for kids like you!\u00a0 We need real men, not children!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s blood boiled. It was the second time in a short time that he had been called a child, and he had no intention of taking it any longer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What is it with you people!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Why won\u2019t anyone believe me when I tell you I\u2019m twenty-one?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They stared at him, taken back by his outburst. \u2018Maybe because you don\u2019t look it!\u2019 said a voice behind him, and Joe turned to see a middle-aged man in a Captain\u2019s uniform standing behind him. \u2018Why should anyone believe you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at him defiantly. \u2018Because I am!\u2019 he declared. \u2018And I can outride anyone here as well!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Captain smiled at him. \u2018Really? Well why don\u2019t you just climb up on one of those horses and show us your stuff then young man?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe needed no second bidding to do as the officer suggested. He sprang over the corral fence and approached the closest horse to him.\u00a0 Mounting quickly, he joined the group of men moving around the corral and quickly adapted his riding to the pattern they were following. He glanced over to the officer watching him and decided that if he was to make any impression on him he needed to do something outstanding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Without hesitation, Joe turned the horse towards the corral fence and headed towards it.\u00a0 In one jump he had cleared it and galloped across the field at a great pace. Turning the horse\u2019s head sharply he took off in the other direction towards the trees that surrounded them, jumping the various obstacles in his way before heading back to the corral again.\u00a0 During the whole exercise he had flattened his body against that of the horse in an attempt to gain the most speed from the animal and gain the greatest manoeuvrability a well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he approached the Captain who was still standing by the corral fence he looked at him closely to see his reaction, and noticed that he looked quite impressed at the display.\u00a0 He jumped down from the horse and handed the reins to a soldier who came to take the animal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Captain stood and looked at him. After a moment he said, \u2018Follow me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned and walked after the man eagerly. As they approached the recruiting tent again he waved at Harry who was standing with his mouth open watching them.\u00a0 The Captain motioned for Joe to follow him inside and addressed the two soldiers sitting there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018This young man is to be signed up for the Cavalry,\u2019 he instructed. \u2018Report back to the corral when you have your uniform,\u2019 he said to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir!\u2019 replied Joe, his face breaking into a huge grin. \u2018Thank you sir!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The older of the two soldiers listened in amazement. \u2018But sir!\u2019 he began to protest. \u2018This youngster has already tried once to enlist. He\u2019s not old enough!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Captain turned to Joe. \u2018How old did you say you were?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Twenty-one sir!\u2019 Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I think that\u2019s old enough, don\u2019t you?\u2019 said the Captain, challenging the men with a look. \u2018Sign him up.\u2019\u00a0 He winked at Joe as he left the tent. \u2018I want you over at the corral as soon as you\u2019ve finished here.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled at him and then turned to the seated men again. After a moment\u2019s hesitation the soldier said. \u2018Name?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph Cartwright,\u2019 replied Joe for the second time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Age?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Twenty-one.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Get a uniform from over there,\u2019 the man instructed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Columbus<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

October 1864<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was bored and frustrated. It seemed that the exciting time he had signed up for just didn\u2019t exist around here at all!\u00a0 So far the army had been nothing but routine and regimentation, and he had never taken orders from so many people in such a short space of time.\u00a0 Even his Pa and his brothers had given him a break at times back home, but here it seemed that everyone felt they had the right to order him around and tell him what to do!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe supposed that they did really.\u00a0 That was the whole point of the army.\u00a0 As a lowly Private he was at the bottom of the heap, and as such didn\u2019t seem to have any rights at all. Even being in the prestigious Cavalry didn\u2019t seem to have any advantages as far as Joe could tell.\u00a0 Apart from getting to exercise and look after the horses he didn\u2019t have much else to do, and spent his days waiting for some kind of action to come his way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The last two weeks had shown him one thing for sure \u2013 that the army was not as glamorous as it had appeared from the outside.\u00a0 Joe smiled to himself when he thought of what his father would say if he could read his mind right about now, but the smile soon faded as he thought about the other things that were probably in his father\u2019s mind as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe still felt guilty about the way he had left The Ponderosa that night.\u00a0 Of course he had left his father a note to explain just why he felt he had to do this, but he knew that Pa already knew his reasons.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t so much his reasons as his attitude that would hurt his father, and Joe regretted having done that.\u00a0 He was beginning to wonder if his selfishness had been worth it after all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he rubbed down the horse in front of him, he was startled to hear a voice beside him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well, where have ya been hiding yaself kid? I was beginning ta think they had sent ya home after all!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He turned to see Harry standing there grinning at him. \u2018Harry!\u2019 he said, genuinely pleased to see the man. \u2018I\u2019ve been right here all the time.\u00a0 I\u2019m in the Cavalry remember?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh yeah!\u00a0 The elite!\u2019 Harry replied with a grin. \u2018How\u2019s it going kid?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed as he put down his brush. \u2018To tell you the truth, not too well.\u00a0 I feel like I might as well be back home.\u00a0 Seems like I\u2019ve just transferred the chores from one spot to another.\u2019\u00a0 He motioned to the horse. \u2018This is what I do all the time at The Ponderosa.\u00a0 I just thought being in the army would at least give me something different to do!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Harry scratched his head. \u2018Well if ya don\u2019t beat all,\u2019 he exclaimed. \u2018Seems ta me like ya should be grateful that it\u2019s so quiet.\u00a0 Better than being close ta a battle don\u2019t ya think?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No not really,\u2019 replied Joe, picking up the brush again. \u2018I think it\u2019d be exciting to see at least some kind of action.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well ya might get ya wish sooner than ya think!\u2019 declared Harry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes lit up. \u2018Really?\u2019 he said excitedly. \u2018How come?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Rumour is we\u2019re shipping out at first light,\u2019 replied the other man. \u2018Seems there\u2019s going ta be a bit of a scuffle down Savannah way and we\u2019re headed for it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Finally!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Crazy kid!\u2019 said Harry with a puzzled look on his face. \u2018Keep ya head down at least will ya?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Bit hard to do on a horse!\u2019 said Joe with a laugh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hmm. I suppose so.\u00a0 But try will ya kid?\u00a0 I wouldn\u2019t want ta see ya get yaself in any kind of trouble.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t worry Harry, I\u2019ll be a good boy I promise,\u2019 Joe said with a grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He found it very difficult to sleep at all that night.\u00a0 It seemed that Harry\u2019s prediction was coming true, for the camp was on full alert and everyone was awakened at first light.\u00a0 Joe stepped out of his tent eagerly to find everyone breaking camp and getting ready to depart.\u00a0 He began to follow suit, but looked up from his packing when he felt a tap on his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t bother sonny boy,\u2019 said a grizzled Sergeant as he looked down at him. \u2018The Captain wants you to stay here.\u00a0 You ain\u2019t going anywhere.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned at him. \u2018But why not Sarge?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Everyone else is going!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Everyone but a skeleton crew,\u2019 the man replied. \u2018The Captain wants a horseman left behind and you\u2019re it sonny. Better get unpacked again.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018But \u2026..\u2019 Joe began, but stopped as he caught the eye of the other man. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he added mournfully. It seemed as if he was destined never to see any kind of action at all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he watched the large group of Infantry and Cavalry depart from the camp later that morning, it was all he could do not to spring up on a horse and join them. He waved to Harry who was in line and tried to appear cheerful, but it was an impossible task, feeling as he did. With a sigh he turned back towards the now tiny camp and made his way over to the near-empty corral.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s not fair!\u00a0<\/em>he thought.\u00a0All this way and still nothing to do.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think I\u2019ll ever get to see any action.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>A sudden burst of gunfire startled him out of his thoughts, and he stood transfixed as he looked towards the horizon and noticed a huge column of smoke rising above the treetops.\u00a0 The direction that the troops were headed in seemed to be the centre of a conflict for sure!\u00a0 He said a silent prayer that all would be well for them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All through that day Joe sat around and listened to the distant gunfire and other sounds of the battle that was taking place.\u00a0 He felt a great sense of helplessness and a desire to join the others, but he knew that he had to stay put until further orders.\u00a0 Finally they came.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>
\nTowards sundown he was summoned to the Captain\u2019s tent and he practically ran the entire length of the field to get there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Private I want you to deliver this to Colonel Eriksson at Macon,\u2019 the Captain instructed. He looked at Joe intently. \u2018Do you think you can get through son?\u00a0 It\u2019s vital that you do.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe beamed at him. This was what he had been waiting for!\u00a0 \u2018Yes sir I can!\u2019 he said with great confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Captain handed him a letter. \u2018See that you do,\u2019 he said. \u2018Do anything to make sure that it doesn\u2019t fall into enemy hands.\u00a0 And Private,\u2019 he continued as Joe turned to leave, \u2018Good luck!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe ran outside and saddled a horse.\u00a0 Mounting quickly he turned towards the trees and galloped off, his heart beating fast with excitement. A few minutes down the track he slowed to a quick trot, knowing that he had to conserve the energy of his mount and anxious to observe what was going on around him at the same time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ahead he could see quite a bit of smoke between the trees in what he supposed was the direction of the battle that had been taking place.\u00a0 Sadly he realised that his mission would not take him close to the area, but he still hoped that he could get a glimpse of action along the way.\u00a0 He needn\u2019t have worried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All along the track he passed the bodies of men who had retreated from the front lines.\u00a0 Many of them had simply crawled off to die and lay there unconscious, while others were wounded and crying out for help.\u00a0 There were wagons picking up those who could be helped, and among them Joe noticed Harry.\u00a0 There was nothing but a bloody mass of flesh below his knee and he was trying to crawl away from the men who were attempting to help him into a wagon.\u00a0 The sound of his screams followed Joe as he continued on his way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a while the sounds of the battle were left behind him, and there were no more bodies in his path.\u00a0 Joe breathed a sigh of relief, for the sight had not been pleasant.\u00a0 Strange how he hadn\u2019t really thought about that aspect of the war before.\u00a0 He had considered the fact that many men were hurt or worse during battles, but had never really seriously thought about it happening to himself.\u00a0 Right at this moment, however, the danger seemed extremely close and real to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He found that he was sweating and his heart was beating widely as he continued.\u00a0 It had nothing to do with the ride, as that was something he was quite used to.\u00a0 It was more the thought of the danger he now found himself in, and the fact that he didn\u2019t know what was ahead of him.\u00a0 It was impossible to tell which way the battle had gone, and Joe knew that the possibility of coming across soldiers from either side was a very distinct reality.\u00a0 He prayed that if he did they would be dressed in grey, not blue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He fingered his gun at his side as he rode, feeling content that it was there.\u00a0 \u00a0He felt much safer knowing that\u00a0 he had a way to protect himself if he needed it, and\u00a0 counted himself lucky that coming from where he did using a gun was something that he had been used to at a much earlier age than many others in this army.\u00a0\u00a0 But then, they were all older<\/span><\/p>\n

than him as well, so he figured that it all probably evened out somewhere along the way. He felt the letter in his pocket and wondered what was so important in it as to warrant this dangerous ride.\u00a0 He wondered what he would do if there were a danger of it being discovered, but hoped that he would never have to make that decision.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For a couple of hours he rode, careful to keep within the tree line and skirting the villages that dotted the trail.\u00a0 Just as he felt that he was coming towards the end of his mission, however, he sensed something was wrong.\u00a0 From the corner of his eye he caught a glimpse of something in the distance towards his left, and he quickened his pace somewhat.\u00a0 Another glance over his shoulder told him that he hadn\u2019t been mistaken, and he urged his mount forward into a gallop.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly the sound of a gunshot rang out, and he felt a bullet whiz past him.\u00a0 He flattened himself down onto his horse, bent forward and rode for all he was worth in the direction of Macon.\u00a0 Behind him the sound of hoof beats kept coming, and when he finally had a chance to glance over his shoulder he noticed that there were four riders.\u00a0 His heart sank as he realised that the chances of outrunning four at once were slim, but he kicked his mount forward even faster and resolved to give it his best shot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

His thoughts flew to the letter in his pocket, and he wondered again what he should do.\u00a0 If they caught him then it would be discovered immediately of course, and remembering what the Captain had said to him he knew that he couldn\u2019t let that happen.\u00a0 He made a quick decision and drew it out of his pocket, glancing about him as he wondered where he could hide it.\u00a0 If they searched him, chances were that they would think to look on the horse itself, so he reached down and began to stuff it underneath the front of the saddle in the hopes that it would be safe there for now.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Unfortunately his grasp on it wasn\u2019t the best, and as he tried to keep his balance several of the pages fluttered from his grasp and flew into the air around him.\u00a0 He glanced down and noticed with dismay that he was left with only one page in his hand, and stuffed it under the saddle as he had originally intended.\u00a0 He could only hope that one page was enough for Colonel Erikkson to get the information that he needed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He glanced over his shoulder again and noticed with dismay that the others were still hot on his tracks.\u00a0 He hoped they hadn\u2019t noticed the fluttering pages of the letter as it had left his grasp, but assumed not as they hadn\u2019t wavered from their path. Just as he thought that he might have been widening the distance between them, his horse stumbled for a fraction of a second and his balance was upset.\u00a0 Kicking out of the stirrups, Joe felt himself sailing over the horse\u2019s head and the last thing he remembered before the blackness descended upon him was the sound of the horses behind him pulling to a stop.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He had a deep cut to his forehead and his arm hung limply by his side.\u00a0 But it was his leg that couaght Joe\u2019s eye.\u00a0 It wI<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Fort<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0McAllister<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

October 1864<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe never knew how long he was unconscious for, or in fact where he was when he eventually did wake up.\u00a0 All he knew was that he had never felt so weak or had such a headache as he did then.\u00a0 He opened his eyes slowly and looked at the four walls around him, then shut them again quickly as the small beam of sunlight from the window caused his head to spin.\u00a0 He felt as though he wanted to throw up, and tentatively tried to move his arms and legs to see if they worked as they should.. To his great relief he experienced no pain when he did so, merely an aching feeling that culminated in a massive headache.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He tried to keep as still as possible to keep his head from feeling as though it was about to fall off his shoulders, but found that it didn\u2019t really help. He became aware of a great thirst and tried to lick his lips, but found that his tongue was swollen in his mouth.\u00a0 He wondered how long it had been since he had drunk anything, and opened his eyes again to look for some water.\u00a0 To his relief he saw a small container in the corner of the room, and reached out his hand to get it.\u00a0 Slowly and carefully he brought it to his lips and drank thirstily, then poured a little on his face.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a moment Joe opened his eyes again, and noticed that the room had stopped spinning as much.\u00a0 He tentatively lifted his head a little and looked around him.\u00a0 He was in a tiny room that contained only the narrow bunk on which he was lying.\u00a0 Above him a tiny window through which a small shaft of sunlight broke through was the only thing to break the monotony of the walls, apart from the door itself.\u00a0 Joe knew without trying it that it would be securely locked, and he groaned inwardly to think of the position he now found himself in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So much for the glories of war!\u00a0 Not only had he not even come close to anything remotely like a battle, but also now he was captured and would probably spend the rest of the war like this. He rolled over on the bunk and immediately regretted the movement.\u00a0 His head felt like it was about to fall off with the pain, and he put his hand up to feel the back of it and discovered a huge lump where no doubt he had hit the ground when he fell.\u00a0 He closed his eyes again and willed himself to sleep, which seemed like it was the only thing to do at the moment. It was the one way to stave off the future that he dreaded was going to be his.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He was awoken by the sound of a key in the lock, and lifted his head tentatively again to see how it felt.\u00a0 Pleased to feel that the pain was not as piercing as before, he nevertheless reached for the container of water and flicked some of it on his face again before drinking a couple of scoops.\u00a0 He sat up slowly, ready to face whomever it was entering the tiny room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Get up!\u2019 a voice ordered him, and he looked up to see a gun pointed directly at him. The solider behind the gun raised his eyebrows in a nonchalant way as he repeated, \u2018I said to get up!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slowly raised himself to his feet and stood looking at the other man, swaying a little. The soldier motioned with the gun towards the door and stepped aside so that Joe could walk past him. \u2018Out there,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe walked past him and found himself in a long corridor.\u00a0 Glancing both ways he noticed that there were many doors similar to the one we had just come through leading off it, and guessed correctly that it was a long line of jail cells.\u00a0Great<\/em>!\u00a0 he thought,\u00a0No chance to get out of here in a hurry!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

He became even more depressed as he was pushed forward into the main yard.\u00a0 He found himself in a huge compound surrounded by high walls, complete with armed soldiers at the gates.\u00a0You\u2019ve really landed yourself in it now Joe!<\/em>\u00a0he thought.\u00a0How much worse can it get?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

He didn\u2019t really want an answer to his own question, but sensed that he hadn\u2019t seen the worst of it yet.\u00a0 His fears were only heightened as he was pushed from behind and staggered before regaining his balance again.\u00a0 His head throbbed and he put his hand up to steady it as he walked, hustled from behind all the while by the gun barrel he could feel in the small of his back.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They entered a large building at the other end of the yard, and the soldier behind him motioned to him to stop outside double doors. \u2018Here he is,\u2019 he heard him say as he stood waiting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s the one who was carrying the letter?\u2019 asked another man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Bring him in.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The doors were opened and Joe was pushed through them, stumbling a little as he went.\u00a0 He looked around and found himself in a large room, which had chairs placed around the walls.\u00a0 At one end was a large desk, with a flag hanging behind it.\u00a0 Suddenly, his hands were pulled behind his back and he felt them being roughly tied together. He tried to look over his shoulder at whom it was standing behind him, but his face was thrust back towards the front and the soldier in front of him smiled. \u2018This way soldier boy. Nothing for you to see back there!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe swallowed, and tried not to show the fear that was beginning to well up inside him.\u00a0 With his hands bound securely behind his back now he felt defenceless, and his control was beginning to weaken.\u00a0 He stood for what seemed like ages in the middle of the room, feeling decidedly weaker with every moment that passed.\u00a0 He wasn\u2019t sure whether the feeling was coming from fear or the blow to his head, but he suspected that it was from both.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After what seemed like ages, the doors were again open, and a group of soldiers entered the room.\u00a0 Joe turned to take a look at them, but the man standing beside him forcibly turned his head again to the front again. \u2018I told you this way soldier boy!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the room gradually filled, Joe sensed the tension in his body begin to rise.\u00a0 He tried to remain calm and composed, or at the very least to create an impression that he was.\u00a0 Without turning his head he moved his eyes to the right and then the left, and noticed that many of the blue-uniform men who had entered the room were officers.\u00a0 This made him more worried than before.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly there appeared in front of him an officer.\u00a0 Joe found it difficult to tell his rank at a glance, but he felt that it must have been fairly high, as he seemed to take charge. \u2018This is him?\u2019 the man asked the soldier standing beside him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir.\u00a0 He had the letter on him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The officer looked at Joe intently, and after a moment\u2019s hesitation he spoke directly at him. \u2018How old are you son?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe swallowed again. He saw no reason to lie now, in fact he felt that his age could well be an advantage to him in this situation. \u2018Nineteen sir,\u2019 he replied, looking the man square in the face and trying to keep his voice from shaking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The officer shook his head and sighed. \u2018Nineteen,\u2019 he repeated softly. \u2018And just what are you doing messed up in all this?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t know if an answer was expected of him, so he remained silent. The officer turned and spoke to one of the other officers by his side but Joe was unable to catch what was said.\u00a0 Both men looked at him. \u2018My name is Colonel Wilson,\u2019 continued the officer. You were captured with a page of a letter on you.\u00a0 I need to know where the rest of that letter is.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at the man and said nothing. After a moment the officer spoke again. \u2018I said I need to know where the letter is.\u2019\u00a0 Again Joe said nothing, and the officer sighed. \u2018Son, you\u2019re not going to help yourself or anyone else if you don\u2019t cooperate with us. Where is it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glanced around the room at the men standing waiting for his reply. He felt himself begin to shake, and tried to stop it from becoming obvious to anyone else. The officer walked over to the desk at the far end of the room, and brought back a piece of paper that had been laying on it which he waved under Joe\u2019s nose. \u2018You were found with this page on you.\u00a0 Where did you put the rest of it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Again Joe said nothing, but looked at the man silently.\u00a0 The officer at his side took a step forward, but the Colonel put up a hand to stop him before turning to Joe again. \u2018Look son, there\u2019s something you have to realise. The fact that you were found with this letter on you means that I have the power to have you shot.\u2019\u00a0 Joe felt his head begin to spin as he tried to keep his panic under control. The Colonel continued. \u2018Now I really don\u2019t want to have to do that, and I\u2019m sure you\u2019d like to avoid it too, eh?\u2019 he smiled at Joe. \u2018Answer my questions and you\u2019ll get out of this the easy way. Otherwise\u2026.\u2019 he held up his hands in a futile gesture.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe opened his mouth and heard his voice come out in a soft whisper. \u2018I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Colonel Wilson frowned at him. \u2018You don\u2019t know where you put it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 Joe replied. \u2018I lost it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The officer sighed again and turned away.\u00a0 After a few moments of conversing with the other officer by his side, he turned back to Joe again. \u2018I\u2019m going to give you a while to think about this son.\u00a0 Try and make the wise choice, for your own sake.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He gestured to the solider standing next to Joe who pushed him backwards with the butt of his rifle. \u2018Move!\u2019 he said and this time Joe didn\u2019t hesitate.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t get out of that room quickly enough to suit him!\u00a0 He needed no second bidding to walk as quickly as his aching head would allow him to through the doors and back out to the compound.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Later that night in his cell, he thought about what the officer had said.\u00a0 Surely he hadn\u2019t meant it?\u00a0 The very thought of the words he had heard sent cold shivers down his spine, and he tried not to think about it.\u00a0 But it wouldn\u2019t leave his head.\u00a0 They wanted him to tell them where he had come from and how many had been in the camp.\u00a0 Of course he knew the answers, well sort of, but one thing Joe knew was that he had sworn loyalty to a particular cause and he was damned if they were going to scare him into a betrayal of that cause.\u00a0 Also, he felt that the Colonel\u2019s words were mostly a bluff. If they were so anxious for the information, then why would they shoot him?\u00a0 No, Joe felt sure that they needed to keep him alive at the moment.\u00a0 How he prayed that his guess was right!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

During the next few days it seemed that it could be.\u00a0 He was taken from his small cell each day and questioned, but at no time did he feel that they were coming close to really threatening his life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

On the third day, however, the questioning became more intense and Joe sensed that they were either becoming increasingly frustrated with him or the information they sought was becoming more important to them.\u00a0 From the moment he entered the room on this day, there was a tension in the air that he could almost reach out and feel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As usual one of the officers did the questioning, and as usual Joe gave nothing away.\u00a0 This time however, after a short bout of questioning the officer motioned to the soldier who stood by Joe\u2019s side to bring him forward and for the first time they took him through the door on the far wall and into a smaller room next door.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

His arms still tied behind his back, Joe stood nervously waiting while the officer looked at him. After a moment he motioned with his hand, and the soldier put down his gun and advanced towards Joe, who took a few steps backwards until he was backed up against the wall.\u00a0 The soldier looked him directly in the eye as he raised his fist and hit him across the face.\u00a0 Joe gasped in surprise and tried to turn his face away, but he was hit again on the other side as well. As he tried to regain his breath, a blow to his stomach caused him to cry out in pain and he doubled over.\u00a0 He felt his head jerked upwards by the hair and once again endured another hard blow to his stomach.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe felt his knees buckle under him and he began to slide to the floor, but he was jerked to his feet again and held upright.\u00a0 The officer who had been watching this spoke for the first time since they had entered the room. \u2018Are you ready to talk now?\u2019\u00a0 Joe shook his head, still struggling for breath.\u00a0 Again he felt a blow to his head and he began to lose his balance, but he was still held upright as the blows continued to his head and stomach.\u00a0 He heard someone groaning and realised that it was his own voice.\u00a0 He felt detached from reality, almost as if he was watching from a distance, and if it wasn\u2019t for the increasing pain could almost have believed that he was.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Again and again the blows kept coming.\u00a0 Again and again he heard the words, \u2018Are you ready to talk yet?\u2019 and again and again he shook his head until he couldn\u2019t respond any more.\u00a0 With his head sagging in front of him, he felt the room spinning around him, and the sound he heard as he lost consciousness was the thud of a fist hitting him over and over. He surrendered his mind to the blackness with relief.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Fort<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0McAllister<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

October 1864<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Six steps forwards, four steps across and six steps back again.<\/em>\u00a0 Once again Joe paced out the tiny cell in frustration.\u00a0 There were times during the past few weeks when he had wondered about his sanity and just what it would take to get through this.\u00a0 Never one to be still for any great length of time, he found it unbearable to be confined in this way, and desperately tried to focus on something \u2013 anything \u2013 to get him through.\u00a0 He spent a lot of time thinking about his father and brothers, wondering what they might be doing, but the thoughts always ended up depressing him so much that he had to focus on something else.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He knew it was too late now, but Joe deeply regretted the way in which he had treated his father and the decision he had made to not follow his advice.\u00a0\u00a0I should have known Pa would be right!\u00a0 Hasn\u2019t he always been before?\u00a0<\/em>Joe sat with his head bent on his knees and thought about how his Pa would be handling this.\u00a0 He thanked the Lord that he couldn\u2019t possibly know what had happened to him, and hoped that he would not be too angry when he found out. Joe just hoped that his father would have the chance to find out one day, and that he would be able to be the one to tell him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He lifted his head as he heard a noise outside his cell.\u00a0 His body tensed for a moment as he listened, but the footsteps went past his room and he breathed a sigh of relief as he heard them fade into the distance.\u00a0 It was like this every day.\u00a0 He never knew from one moment to the next when they would come for him, and even though his trips outside brought a break in the monotony of his time here, he dreaded them to such an extent that he trembled every time he thought about them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Each time he was taken to the large room and questioned, but so far he had refused to answer.\u00a0 He had realised a long time ago that the threat of being shot was a hollow one, as he felt sure that it would have happened by now if it had been a serious one.\u00a0 No, the information that he had carried in that letter had obviously been far too valuable for them to risk not finding it, and at this stage he felt sure that he was their only link to it.\u00a0 As long as he didn\u2019t give them what they asked for, he was safe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He straightened up slightly and winced at the pain in his stomach.\u00a0 He might be safe from being executed, he thought, but it didn\u2019t save him from the abuse that they continually subjected him too.\u00a0 His stomach was bruised and sore from the many times he had endured their beatings, and his head throbbed.\u00a0 So far they had given him adequate food and drink, but he wondered how much longer that would last for.\u00a0 Each time he ate he wondered if it would be the last.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There were times when he had considered lying to them about the letter, but he knew that it wouldn\u2019t do any good.\u00a0 He really didn\u2019t know where it was, and they wouldn\u2019t believe him when he told them what had happened anyway.\u00a0 He was in a no win situation, and he knew it.\u00a0 There was nothing he could do to get out of this!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The sound of footsteps again caused his stomach to tense up and he bit his lip.\u00a0 This time he heard a key turn in the lock and he closed his eyes momentarily while he tried to quiet his heart that had begun to beat furiously.\u00a0\u00a0Please God!<\/em>\u00a0He prayed.\u00a0Don\u2019t let it be like the last time!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The last time they had taken him out the beating had been more vicious than previously.\u00a0 He could only suppose that they were getting desperate for the information and\u00a0\u00a0 were determined to show him that they meant business.\u00a0 Although he had yelled at them throughout that he knew nothing, they obviously didn\u2019t believe him.\u00a0 Nothing he could do would make them stop, and he prepared himself now for the worst.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The door opened and he looked up to see two familiar legs in front of him.\u00a0 \u2018Come on sonny boy, you know the drill by now!\u2019\u00a0 Joe got up slowly, holding onto his stomach and swaying slightly as he stood there. He obeyed the signal to move out of the room silently.\u00a0 What was the point of resisting them after all?\u00a0 He had tried it once, but it had only earned him a beating before he got to the interrogation room as well as after.\u00a0 With a sigh he shuffled forward to his ultimate destination.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Back to index<\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter 2 by Joan<\/span><\/p>\n

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

PART 2<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Fort<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0McAllister<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

October 1864<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d like to congratulate you Captain.\u2019 Colonel Wilson raised his glass and proposed a toast. \u2018That was an excellent piece of work you presented.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you Colonel,\u2019 replied Adam with a smile. \u2018Although honestly it wasn\u2019t as difficult as it appeared to be.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s what I like about you Cartwright,\u2019 said the Colonel. \u2018You get the job done without any fuss.\u00a0 Seems like I can always rely on you.\u00a0 I must write and let Colonel Searson know how grateful I am for lending you to me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled again. \u2018It\u2019s me who should be grateful to you Colonel,\u2019 he said. \u2018After I took that bullet at Johnsonville.\u00a0 I really was feeling quite useless and the work here has meant a great deal to me.\u00a0 It saved me from sitting around doing nothing while I recovered.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel lowered his glass from his lips. \u2018How is the leg now?\u2019 he enquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA lot better thank you,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018Hardly hurts at all. To be honest I feel like a bit of a fraud still being here.\u00a0 I really should be getting back to Frederickton.\u00a0 I\u2019m ready for action again.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Nonsense!\u2019 replied the Colonel. \u2018There are still a lot of useful things you could be doing here. There\u2019s a letter I\u2019d like you to look at for a start.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018A letter?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes. A young rider was captured with it on him.\u00a0 Unfortunately we only got the first page and it seems to be in some sort of code.\u00a0 I thought perhaps you might be able to take a look at it and try to decipher it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat forward interested. \u2018I\u2019d love to,\u2019 he said. \u2018Things like that always interest me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I thought it would,\u2019 said the Colonel with a laugh. \u2018I\u2019ll show it to you tomorrow. \u2018The problem is that even if you can crack the code, if that letter contains what I think it does we\u2019re going to need the rest of it, and the rider isn\u2019t telling where he put it.\u2019 He picked up his fork again. \u2018We\u2019re working on him though.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018I\u2019ll see what I can do,\u2019 he said. \u2018A lot of these codes are worked on a numerical system and can actually be quite easy once you find the key to them.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well you work on it and we\u2019ll work on him,\u2019 said the Colonel with a laugh. \u2018Report to my office in the morning and I\u2019ll show it to you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was quite pleased. \u00a0Since arriving at Fort McAllister a week back he had been kept busy with a lot of administrative tasks that needed to be done, but nothing that had really interested him much.\u00a0 Now the Colonel was presenting him with a challenge that he was sure he was going to really enjoy.\u00a0 He had meant it when he had told the man that he needed to feel useful again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He missed his men and he missed the action that he had begun to take for granted.\u00a0 He had joined the army in the first place to feel useful, and he found it difficult to be less.\u00a0 He thought back to the night when he had first broached the subject with his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ponderosa Ranch<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Nevada<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

May 1863<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t until late that night that Adam finally sat down next to his father to talk.\u00a0 Ben had been waiting for this to happen all day, or if the truth be known for a couple of weeks now, as the boy was obviously agitated about something.\u00a0 Adam very fairly showed his emotions, but Ben could usually pick when something was wrong with him.\u00a0 For one thing he became more withdrawn than usual.\u00a0 Ben knew from bitter experience that it was useless to probe his son at times like this, for he wouldn\u2019t talk until he was ready.\u00a0 He had learned over the years to just bide his time and be patient with the boy and eventually he would be ready to communicate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So when Hoss and Little Joe were upstairs in bed that night and Adam sat next to him in front of the fireplace, he wasn\u2019t in the least bit surprised.\u00a0 What did surprise him, however, was the topic that the boy initiated with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I need to talk to you about something.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put down his book and sat back in his chair while he looked at his son. \u2018Yes Adam, what is it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018I\u2019ve come to a decision about something and I want to talk it through with you.\u00a0 I think you\u2019re going to be upset about it though.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Typical of the oldest son of mine!<\/em>\u00a0Ben thought.\u00a0Prepares me before he gets to the crux of it.\u00a0<\/em>\u2018Just speak your mind Adam, \u2018he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood up and began to pace in front of the fireplace. \u2018Well Pa, you\u2019ve always said that we should do as our conscience tells us to, haven\u2019t you?\u2019\u00a0 He turned to look his father in the eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded warily, afraid of where this might be headed. \u2018Yes, I hope I raised all of you to think for yourselves,\u2019 he said. \u2018What is it son?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well \u2026. I\u2019ve been thinking about this a lot Pa.\u00a0 It isn\u2019t something I\u2019ve decided on lightly.\u2019 Adam continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Just say it Adam, what is it that you\u2019ve decided on?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m going to leave for a while Pa.\u00a0 I want to join up and fight.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sat stunned for a few moments. \u2018What?\u2019 he said softly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam held up his hand. \u2018I know what you\u2019re thinking Pa. But it\u2019s something I just have to do. I believe in what they\u2019re fighting for Pa.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sat back in his chair.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t really come as a shock to him when he thought about it.\u00a0 This oldest boy of his had always been one to take up with causes, and he had certainly done enough talking about it over the last few months.\u00a0 Every time he received a letter from one of his many College friends who had enlisted, Ben could see a look in his eye that made him quite uneasy.\u00a0 He had followed the progress of the war intently, always ready with an opinion about its progress, and he and his father had indulged in many discussions about it here in this very spot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t need to ask what you have in mind do I?\u2019 he asked when he had sufficiently recovered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018No I thought you\u2019d have an idea already,\u2019 he answered. \u2018I thought I\u2019d go to Virginia and join up with the First Massachusetts Cavalry Unit.\u00a0 They\u2019re desperately looking for good riders, and I know I\u2019d be an asset to them.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It was typical of Adam that he stated the facts in this way. He knew his worth as a rider and stated it as fact, and already had his plans worked out as to where he would go and who he would join up with. It didn\u2019t surprise his father that he had chosen a Cavalry Unit that had originated from Massachusetts either.\u00a0 He had probably chosen a unit that many of his College friends were already enrolled in.\u00a0 All his plans had already been made, and Ben knew that even though he was paying his father the courtesy of discussing it with him that his mind was already made up. Nothing would sway him from the path he had decided to take.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With his heart sinking, Ben did the only thing he knew he could. \u2018If that\u2019s what you feel you have to do son, then I understand,\u2019 he said, putting his hand on his son\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Your brothers will miss you. We all will.\u2019\u00a0 He looked into his eyes meaningfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018I know Pa, and I\u2019ll miss all of you too.\u00a0 But it\u2019s something I\u2019ve got to do, you know?\u2019\u00a0 Ben nodded.\u00a0 He did know. \u2018And anyway, it might not be for too long.\u00a0 The news is good lately, and it sounds like everything should be over before too much longer.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018When will you go?\u2019 he asked fearfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I thought I\u2019d catch next week\u2019s stage.\u00a0 The sooner I go the better really.\u2019 Adam looked at his father to gauge his reaction. \u2018I\u2019d like to get it over with.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Do you want to tell your brothers or do you want me to?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll do it,\u2019 said Adam. They sat in silence for a few moments, both staring into the fire. After a while Adam spoke again. \u2018Pa I want you to understand.\u00a0 It\u2019s not that I really\u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put his hand up. \u2018You don\u2019t have to say it son.\u00a0 I know.\u00a0 We all have to do what we feel is best in life.\u00a0 I do understand your decision.\u00a0 Really I do.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at his father. \u2018Thanks Pa.\u00a0 It means a lot to hear you say that. I just hope that Hoss and Joe will understand too.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure they will son.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Wow! Really?\u2019 Joe almost choked on his breakfast as he heard the news. \u2018I can\u2019t believe it Adam!\u00a0 You\u2019re really going to fight?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes really,\u2019 said Adam with a small frown. \u2018And there\u2019s no need to carry on like that!\u00a0 It\u2019s just something that has to be done, Joe.\u00a0 It\u2019s no big deal.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stared at him. \u2018Well I think it is!\u00a0 I wish I could come with you!\u2019\u00a0 He looked hopefully at his father who merely stared at him until he looked across the table at Hoss. \u2018Don\u2019t you wish you could go too Hoss?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss glared at him and flung down his napkin as he stood up from the table. \u2018No I don\u2019t!\u00a0 Quit carrying on about it will ya Joe?\u2019\u00a0 He stomped away from the table and they all jumped to hear the front door shut with a bang.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s eating him?\u2019 asked Joe looking at his father and brother. \u2018I would have thought he\u2019d be pleased for Adam!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben frowned at his youngest son. \u2018Joseph be quiet about things you know nothing about!\u2019 he admonished. Joe opened his mouth to speak again, but shut it as he caught the look in his father\u2019s eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood up from the table. \u2018Excuse me,\u2019 he said and left the room as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He found Hoss in the barn raking out the stalls. For a moment he stood leaning against the doorframe before he spoke. \u2018I guess you didn\u2019t like my news too much huh?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss turned and looked at him, and then turned to continue his work. \u2018It\u2019s your business Adam.\u00a0 Nothin ta do with me!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stepped forward and touched his brother on the arm. \u2018It is something to do with you and you know it!\u2019 he said. \u2018I have to do this Hoss, I just want you to understand it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss pushed his brother\u2019s hand away. \u2018Well I don\u2019t understand it!\u2019 he said. \u2018Why do ya have ta go and do this fer anyways?\u00a0 It\u2019s nothing ta do with us out here!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018Well I believe it is,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s something that\u2019s going to affect all of us one way or the other Hoss, and we all have to come to terms with it.\u00a0 I have to do what I think is right, you can understand that can\u2019t you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss stared at the floor. \u2018Yeah I can understand it, but it don\u2019t mean I have ta like it none does it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at him. \u2018No I don\u2019t suppose it does,\u2019 he said. \u2018I just don\u2019t want to go away with anything between us brother, you understand what I\u2019m saying?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss grinned at him. \u2018Nothin could ever come between us big brother, ya know that don\u2019t ya?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at him again and nodded. \u2018Yeah, of course I do.\u00a0 Just pretend it\u2019s like when I went away to College.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be back after a while.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well I didn\u2019t like that any more than I like this!\u2019 declared Hoss. He was silent for a moment. \u2018But I\u2019ll try Adam.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Both brothers stood in silence for a few moments, and then Adam spoke again. \u2018Hoss?\u00a0 I need you to do something for me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Whatever ya need Adam, ya know that.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I need you to watch out for Pa and Little Joe for me. Pa will be real upset for a while I imagine, and he\u2019s going to need you to lean on even more if I\u2019m not around.\u2019 Hoss swallowed and nodded unable to speak, while his brother continued. \u2018And you\u2019re going to need to be twice as careful with that younger brother of ours now. You know what he\u2019s like!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018Ya can count on me Adam, I\u2019ll keep him in line!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed. \u2018Well I think that\u2019s too much to ask don\u2019t you?\u00a0 All I\u2019m asking is that you keep an eye on him and don\u2019t let him upset Pa too much.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged his shoulders. \u2018I\u2019ll try my best Adam, but you know just how hard it can be ta keep that young one under control!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his hand on Hoss\u2019 shoulder again and this time Hoss laid his own hand on top of it. \u2018Just try!\u2019 he said, \u2018That\u2019s all I ask of you Hoss, just try!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam knew he could count on Hoss.\u00a0 They had always been as close as brothers could be, probably because they had learnt to lean on each other through all the tragedies that they had experienced. They had learned to stand together through all the things that life had thrown at them, and Adam knew that if there was one person in life that he could count on apart from his father it was Hoss.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It was his youngest brother that he had worried about the most in the days leading up to his departure.\u00a0 Little Joe really seemed to believe that his older brother was headed for a great and glorious adventure, and try as he might to get through to him, Adam found it impossible to make him understand.\u00a0 He put it down to his youth and the fact that Joe had always been the type of person who saw life as one great adventure, but he worried about his attitude all the same. Adam was just glad that his youngest brother was too young to go and do anything foolhardy.\u00a0 At least he was safe from the danger at The Ponderosa –\u00a0 Hoss and their father would see to that!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Fort<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0McAllister<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Georgia<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

October 1864<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked across the compound and stopped to look up at the stars.\u00a0 He wondered what his father and brothers were doing at that moment, and a sudden wave of homesickness washed over him.\u00a0 He had found it harder than he would have thought possible to leave home when the time had come, and it had surprised him that it had been so.\u00a0 He remembered how difficult it had been when he had left for College all those years ago, but he had only been a boy then and it was to be expected that he should have felt the way he did.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This time he had expected it to be easier, but in fact it was harder.\u00a0 Maybe because he had already been away once before and he remembered the pangs of homesickness, or maybe it was because this time he was going towards an unknown danger.\u00a0 He knew it was in all their minds as he said his goodbyes.\u00a0 All except Little Joe of course!\u00a0 The kid couldn\u2019t really see past his own excitement with it all.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam would never forget the look in his father\u2019s eyes as they said their final farewells.\u00a0 He had tried to write to him regularly which at times had proven to be quite a challenge, but he felt that he owed that to him at least.\u00a0 It had been particularly difficult when he had been shot, and had in fact waited until he knew he was OK before letting his father know.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He stared at the stars and took comfort in the fact that the very same ones were shining down on The Ponderosa at that very same moment. He wondered again what they were all doing at home, and decided that Hoss and Little Joe would probably be playing checkers while their father read the paper in front of the fireplace.\u00a0 That was if Joe hadn\u2019t talked his father into letting him go to town!\u00a0 The boy was always on about getting off the ranch and into town to see people if he could convince his father.\u00a0 Adam chuckled to himself as he remembered the many arguments Joe had put forward to persuade his father to allow him some time in there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had always been the sort of kid who could talk most people into things.\u00a0 Adam himself had often fallen victim to his charms and allowed himself to be talked into things that were against his better judgement, although he constantly fought against the urge to give into his little brother.\u00a0 The problem was that the kid just brought out the protective side of his older brother all the time, and Adam found it difficult as they all did to resist him. He smiled to himself as he thought about the many times he had saved the kid from Pa when he had done something wrong.\u00a0 He thought it was highly likely that he\u2019d be getting Joe out of trouble many times in the years to come, no matter how old they all became.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam just hoped he\u2019d have the opportunity to go home one day and get his little brother out of trouble again.\u00a0 He\u2019d have given anything at that moment to see his family again!\u00a0 Not that he hadn\u2019t enjoyed the last few months in a strange kind of way.\u00a0 He had never admitted this to his father, but there was a restlessness in him that needed to be listened to and he suspected that part of him had wanted to leave home just to satisfy it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He had felt the same years ago when he had left for College.\u00a0 The Ponderosa was as dear to him as a place could be, but Adam was acutely aware that there was a world outside it that needed to be explored as well.\u00a0 He knew that Hoss didn\u2019t feel like he did.\u00a0 He had always been content to stay at home, for The Ponderosa was his world, as it now was for Pa, but Adam felt a desire to experience other things as well.\u00a0 Four years at College had given him that opportunity and at the end of the time he had been content to return home to be part of The Ponderosa again.\u00a0 But lately he had felt the same restlessness welling up inside him, and the need was upon him to spread his wings a little again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The war had come at a time in his life when he had in fact needed it \u2013 strange as that may have sounded.\u00a0 He had always kept up the correspondence with his friends from College, and as the months passed and he heard from more and more of them about their experiences he had felt the need to enlist as well.\u00a0 Not that he didn\u2019t believe in what he was fighting for!\u00a0 No, Adam had a very strong conviction that he was on the side of justice and that he really needed to make a contribution to things here, but if it all coincided with his need to spread his wings a little, well so much the better.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He smiled as he remembered his early days in the army and the friendships he had been able to renew there.\u00a0 He had joined the First Massachusetts Cavalry Unit because so many of his friends had, and at first it had been like one great College reunion – until the fighting had started for them all of course! Not that it had bothered him unduly.\u00a0 Coming from the West as he did, he had seen enough violence in his life to know exactly what he was getting himself into, so it wasn\u2019t too much of a shock.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What was a shock, however, was the sheer scale of it!\u00a0 As part of the Cavalry, Adam had found himself very mobile, and their Company had been utilized in quite a few different locations.\u00a0 He had definitely experienced a lot of fighting, and had gradually begun to be recognised not only for his bravery under difficult conditions, but also for his keen intelligence under pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Promotions had come his way without him actually seeking them, and he had been proud to think that he was recognised as someone who was making a contribution.\u00a0 He prided himself on his loyalty and hard work, and felt quite at ease within the confines of the army.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So it came as quite a shock that day when he fell with a bullet in his leg.\u00a0 He had begun to think of himself as quite invincible really, and that should have been his warning sign.\u00a0 Life always took a twist when things were beginning to become too comfortable \u2013 that much he knew!\u00a0 He thought back over his own life and the many twists and turns it had taken through his childhood.\u00a0 So many times things were looking good, only to be torn apart again as tragedy struck himself and his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

And so it had proven to be now.\u00a0 The wound itself had not been a terribly bad one, but complications had set in and he found it difficult to ride for a while.\u00a0 The enforced inactivity had made him increasingly frustrated until he had found his way here to \u2026\u2026. At least here he could feel useful again.\u00a0 He could almost feel fulfilled again.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He continued across the compound towards his room, avoiding the jail cells as he did so.\u00a0 He knew that prisoners were necessary in war, but preferred not to have anything to do with them unless he had to.\u00a0 Adam wondered how he would have coped if he had been captured during the many battles he had taken part in.\u00a0 He was glad that he had never had to find out.\u00a0 He wondered for a moment about the young rider the Colonel had told him about, and hoped that they would be able to get the information from him soon.\u00a0 The thought drew his mind once again to the challenge of the letter, and he smiled to think of the work that was ahead of him in the morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Only one page?\u2019 Adam asked the Colonel as he looked carefully at the piece of paper in front of him. \u2018That\u2019s a shame.\u00a0 I could do a lot more if I had more than this.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s all we\u2019ve got so far,\u2019 replied the officer at the desk in front of him. \u2018I\u2019m confident though that we\u2019ll get the rest of it.\u00a0 The young rider has obviously hidden it somewhere and we\u2019ll get it out of him somehow.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam preferred not to think about how that would be accomplished. \u2018Well I\u2019ll start on this sir.\u00a0 I\u2019ll let you know if I have any success.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Later that morning as he worked he wondered if the task was beyond him.\u00a0 The code seemed to be based on a very different key to any he had seen before, and he knew it would be a very difficult task.\u00a0 If only he had more of the letter!\u00a0 He wondered if they had had any success with the rider, and resolved to go and find out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam entered the Colonel\u2019s office he found it empty apart from a Sergeant who stood to attention when he entered.\u00a0 \u2018Where has Colonel Wilson gone?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s over in the interrogation room,\u2019 replied the Sergeant. \u2018He said he might be quite a while.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded and left the office, heading over towards the interrogation room. He entered to find it empty after all, and stood for a moment listening.\u00a0 Suddenly the door at the other end of the room opened and Colonel Wilson entered. \u2018Captain Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018Any luck?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No sir,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018None at all.\u00a0 It\u2019s quite difficult.\u00a0 I was wondering if you\u2019ve had any success with the rider at all.\u00a0 I sure could use another couple of pages of that letter.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel shook his head. \u2018No, none at all.\u00a0 He still insists that he lost the rest of it.\u2019\u00a0 He hesitated for a moment. \u2018He\u2019s only a kid really.\u00a0 Too young to be caught up in all of this.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

At that moment the Sergeant entered the door behind Adam. \u2018Colonel,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019re needed back in your office for a moment.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel looked frustrated for a moment. \u2018Captain, could you please stay here for a few moments?\u00a0 The prisoner is still being interrogated, and I really shouldn\u2019t leave the men with him alone.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Of course,\u2019 replied Adam as the officer left. He stood still, not wanting to witness what was going on in the other room, but after a few moments his curiosity got the better of him and he walked slowly towards the other door.\u00a0 The sight before him made him gasp with astonishment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

One soldier was holding the prisoner by the arms, and the other was in the process of pounding him in the stomach.\u00a0 The soldier was supporting the young man rather than standing on his own two feet, and Adam could see that he was in fact not capable of standing anyway.\u00a0 He felt his stomach lurch as he watched the scene unfold in front of him, and met the men\u2019s eyes as they realised his presence. \u2018Is that absolutely necessary?\u2019 he asked in a tight voice as they both turned towards him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Colonel\u2019s order sir,\u2019 one of the men responded. \u2018He needs that information sir.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded curtly. \u2018Yes I suppose he does,\u2019 he said as he turned to go. At that moment the prisoner looked up, and Adam felt his world spin around him as he looked into familiar green eyes and noticed the curly hair and the unmistakable profile that he knew to be his youngest brother\u2019s.\u00a0\u00a0My God! Joe!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

He took a step forward. \u2018Let him go!\u2019 he ordered, and in their surprise the two men stepped back from the prisoner who fell heavily to the floor.\u00a0 For a few moments the four figures in the room were as still as statues, with not a movement or a sound passing between them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly a voice behind them broke the silence. \u2018What\u2019s going on here?\u2019 the Colonel asked. \u2018Don\u2019t you two have your orders?\u2019\u00a0 The two soldiers turned slowly towards their commanding officer, then looked at Adam again, not knowing what to do.\u00a0 It was Adam who spoke first.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I told them to stop sir,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018I think the \u2026. the prisoner has \u2026. had enough for now.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel looked at the figure lying so still on the floor beside them. \u2018Well maybe so,\u2019 he said. \u2018Have him taken back to his cell.\u2019\u00a0 The two did bent down and roughly pulled Joe to his feet, then dragged him quickly from the room before Adam could react in any way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well Captain, I\u2019ll let you get back to your decoding,\u2019 the Colonel said as he left the room, and Adam was left alone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He closed his eyes and tried to focus his thoughts.\u00a0No! It couldn\u2019t be!\u00a0 He\u2019s at home with Pa and Hoss.\u00a0 There\u2019s no way it was him!<\/em>\u00a0 He shook his head and held it in his hands.\u00a0It\u2019s just my mind playing tricks on me!\u00a0 That must be it!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But Adam knew that his eyes hadn\u2019t betrayed him, and he struggled to understand how this could be happening.\u00a0 He walked outside without knowing where he was going, and stood beside the building for a few moments, leaning heavily on the wall. Not for one moment could he think of any reason why his little brother would be in this position.\u00a0 Not for one moment could he have believed it possible. He drew his hand over his eyes and tried to calm his breathing that he discovered had become quite uneven, and tried once again to focus his thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe! No way would his father have condoned his brother joining up!\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>Adam realised with a sinking feeling that his father might not even know the whereabouts of his youngest son.\u00a0 Knowing Joe he could well have just taken off, and Pa would be none the wiser where he had ended up.\u00a0That stupid kid! Joe what have you done?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam felt a surge of anger towards his youngest brother.\u00a0\u00a0How could he have done this to himself?\u00a0 How could he have done this to Pa?<\/em>\u00a0 He clenched his fists.\u00a0\u00a0How could he have done this to me?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For the first time that he could remember, Adam was at a total loss to know what to do.\u00a0 He began to pace up and down a little willing himself to calm down, but it didn\u2019t seem to help.\u00a0 After a while he realised that he had to do something, and without thinking about it he found his feet were taking towards the jail cells.\u00a0 As he entered the building he noticed a guard standing near the entry and walked straight up to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I need to see the prisoner,\u2019 he said. \u2018Show me where he is.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Which one sir?\u2019 the man replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stared at him for a moment, his mind not really comprehending. \u2018The \u2026 the one that they\u2019re interrogating about the letter,\u2019 he replied. \u2018The young rider.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry sir, but he\u2019s off limits to everyone,\u2019 replied the soldier. \u2018Colonel\u2019s orders.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam clenched his fists angrily. \u2018I\u2019m working on the letter,\u2019 he said. \u2018I need to see him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The guard shook his head. \u2018Sorry sir, but no one gets to him without the express permission of the Colonel.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned on his heel and left the building and hurried over to the Colonel\u2019s office. He rushed through the doorway and in spite of himself heard his voice demand anxiously. \u2018I need to see the Colonel now!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir,\u2019 the Sergeant replied. \u2018Please go straight through.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam quickly pushed past the man, feeling more anxious with each minute that passed.\u00a0 The reality of the situation was beginning to sink in, and the thought of his younger brother in this position was incredibly difficult for him to come to terms with.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Colonel, I need to see the prisoner,\u2019 he said without waiting for the officer to acknowledge him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel looked up. \u2018Captain Cartwright? What\u2019s all this about?\u2019 he asked surprised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I need to see the prisoner,\u2019 Adam repeated looking at the man anxiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He swallowed, trying to think of a logical reason. \u2018I just \u2026. I thought perhaps he might be able to help me in \u2026. well, finding out about \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well, the code.\u00a0 He might be able to tell me something that might help,\u2019 Adam finished lamely.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel bent over his paper work again. \u2018I don\u2019t think so,\u2019 he said. \u2018The boy wouldn\u2019t know anything about it.\u00a0 He\u2019s obviously just a messenger.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Nevertheless, I\u2019d like to try,\u2019 Adam replied, trying not to sound too anxious. \u2018Please?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel looked up at him again puzzled. \u2018I don\u2019t understand, Captain.\u00a0 What could this youngster possible know that would help you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t know sir, but I\u2019d like to try,\u2019 Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel shook his head. \u2018I\u2019m sorry, but I don\u2019t want anyone interfering with him more than is absolutely necessary.\u00a0 The boy is fragile enough as it is.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam tensed as he tried not to think what \u2018fragile\u2019 might mean. He realised what he had to try next. \u2018Sir. It\u2019s just that I could be of some help to you in finding out the information you need,\u2019 he began hesitantly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel looked at him intently. \u2018How?\u2019 he demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well, I \u2026.. I sort of know him,\u2019 Adam said warily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel stood up. \u2018You know him? How?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He comes from Nevada where I\u2019m from,\u2019 replied Adam.\u00a0 I knew him from before I enlisted. I might be able to help if I spoke to him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You knew him?\u00a0 How is it then that this youngster is fighting for the Confederacy?\u2019\u00a0 the Colonel demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t really know sir, but I think it\u2019s because his family came from there,\u2019 said Adam, not wanting to give too much away. \u2018I doubt that they even know he joined up. He\u2019s too young.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well that\u2019s obvious!\u2019 replied the officer. He stood for a moment in thought. \u2018Just how well do you know this boy Captain?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam swallowed again. \u2018Quite well sir,\u2019 he said softly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018All right,\u2019 said the Colonel bending down and writing on a piece of paper. \u2018From now on you have full rights to him. See what you can do.\u2019\u00a0 He held out the paper to Adam. \u2018Show this to the guard.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you sir,\u2019 said Adam and clutched the paper eagerly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018And Captain?\u2019 added the Colonel. \u2018Do it quickly.\u00a0 Time is running out.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam swallowed again. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he said and left the room.\u00a0 It was all he could do not to run across the compound, but he forced himself to be content with a fast walk.\u00a0 This time the guard didn\u2019t hesitate after the paper was thrust under his nose, and turned and led Adam straight up the corridor towards a room at the end.\u00a0 Turning, he addressed him. \u2018Just knock on the door and let me know when you\u2019re finished sir, I\u2019ll unlock it again for you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded curtly at him, and clenched his fists as the door swung open in front of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat with his hands around his knees, trying to concentrate on not throwing up again. It was always like this when they first left him back in the cell.\u00a0 His stomach rebelled against his mind and it was a constant battle to see which one would win.\u00a0 Usually it was his stomach which took the most punishment, and he couldn\u2019t seem to keep anything down in spite of his need to do so.\u00a0 His head jerked upwards as he heard the key turn on the lock, and his first thought was one of despair. They never came for him more than once each day! Joe wondered what they could possibly want with him now, and felt his body tense with the thought of it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He lowered his head onto his knees again, determined to shut them out for as long as possible.\u00a0 So it was a couple of minutes before he realised that the key was turning in the lock again, and he breathed a sigh of relief to think that they had after all left him alone.\u00a0 As he raised his head he noticed two boots standing beside him, and trembled to realise that he wasn\u2019t alone in the room.\u00a0 He stared at them without moving, willing them to walk away from him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a moment they moved, and two legs came into view.\u00a0 He felt a hand on his shoulder, but didn\u2019t look up. \u2018Joe?\u2019 He heard his name, but for a moment it didn\u2019t register. \u2018Joe?\u2019 there it was again. Strange that someone was calling him by name \u2013 they usually just called him \u2018sonny boy\u2019, or \u2018hey you\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He looked up straight into a pair of black eyes that for a moment he thought were his father\u2019s.\u00a0 He jerked with the realisation, then shook his head as he realised that it couldn\u2019t possibly be true.\u00a0 What would his father be doing here after all?\u00a0 But they were amazingly like \u2026.. Adam?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Adam?\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Adam, is that you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The man beside him nodded. \u2018Yes Joe, it\u2019s me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment they stared at each other, then Joe flung his arms around his brother\u2019s neck and held on for dear life. \u2018Adam! It can\u2019t be true! Oh my God!\u2019 he whispered brokenly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam closed his eyes and hugged his younger brother. He felt the boy\u2019s body tense with emotion, and was sure that his own body was doing the same. Joe held on to like he never wanted to let him go, and if the truth were known it was exactly how Adam felt himself.\u00a0 This youngster had always brought out his protective side, and when he saw him like this, his first instinct was to bundle him up and take him away from all of this, but looking over his brother\u2019s shoulder at the dark wall that surrounded them he knew the futility of such a thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few moments, Adam drew back and studied his brother\u2019s face. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said. \u2018What the hell are you doing here boy?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe swallowed and took a moment to find his voice. \u2018I \u2026. I got captured,\u2019 he said softly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I know that!\u00a0 I meant what are you doing in the army?\u00a0 Does Pa know?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018I ran off Adam.\u00a0 I left him a letter though.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam frowned at his brother. \u2018You left him a letter!\u00a0 How the hell could you do it to him Joe?\u00a0 What were you thinking?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hung his head. \u2018I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018And just how did you get into the army anyway?\u2019 Adam continued. \u2018You\u2019re too young!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018They needed riders,\u2019 explained Joe. \u2018I lied about my age, too.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued to frown at him, his anger and frustration with the situation rising to the surface. \u2018You lied about your age!\u00a0 I\u2019ll bet you did.\u00a0 What are you trying to prove? How could you do this?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes filled with tears as he listened to his older brother. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Adam.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t mean\u2026. I never wanted \u2026\u2026\u2019\u00a0 He hung his head and wept.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam watched him for a moment, trying to keep his anger and frustration under control. He put his hands on his younger brother\u2019s shoulders and pulled him towards himself gently. \u2018Come on, this isn\u2019t helping anything. Get up off the floor and sit over here on the bed.\u2019\u00a0 He tried to pull the boy to his feet, but stopped as he heard a small groan escape from Joe\u2019s lips. He watched as his brother doubled up and clutched at his stomach. \u2018What is it Joe?\u00a0 What have they done to you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He pulled the boy upright and pulled back his shirt to reveal his stomach, and what he saw made him gasp with astonishment. Joe\u2019s stomach was a dark purple, covered with a multitude of bruises that had obviously been the result of many beatings.\u00a0 On closer investigation he noticed for the first time the boy\u2019s face, which was also covered in bruises and a few cuts.\u00a0 The boy had endured a lot of violence, and in a sudden rush the Colonel\u2019s words came back to him.\u00a0We\u2019re working on him.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>So this was what he had meant!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It was strange how the words hadn\u2019t seemed so important to him before.\u00a0 They hadn\u2019t meant much when he thought they were directed towards a stranger.\u00a0 But here before him was his little brother who was living proof at just how important those words had really been. He held onto Joe gently and eased him up onto the narrow cot in the room.\u00a0 Swinging the boy\u2019s legs up, he made him as comfortable as he could, and looked around the room for something to wipe his face with.\u00a0 He noticed a small bowl in the corner of the room that was covered with a cloth and bent to pick it up.\u00a0 Distastefully he realised that it didn\u2019t contain water, but instead the vomited remains of what had been in his brother\u2019s stomach.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He sensed Joe looking at him and turned back towards him. \u2018How often have you been throwing up?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Every time they bring me back in here,\u2019 he answered. \u2018My stomach can\u2019t hold onto anything lately.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Lately?\u00a0 Just how long has this been going on for?\u2019 Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged again. \u2018I don\u2019t know. A couple of weeks I think.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You think?\u2019 Adam frowned at him. \u2018Don\u2019t you know?\u2019 Joe shook his head and looked at his brother silently. After a moment Adam spoke again. \u2018Joe have you told them your name?\u00a0 Do they know your last name is Cartwright?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head again. \u2018No, they never asked my name.\u00a0 All they ask me about is the letter.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well don\u2019t tell them.\u00a0 You hear me boy?\u00a0 Don\u2019t let on what your last name is.\u00a0 They can\u2019t know that we\u2019re related, or I won\u2019t be able to help you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded.\u00a0 For as long as he could remember he had always trusted his brother, and if Adam said not to do something then he would obey him.\u00a0 Adam had always known just what to do in difficult situations, and Joe had the utmost faith that now he had found his brother everything would begin to come right again.\u00a0 His older brother would make sure of it!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam however didn\u2019t share Joe\u2019s confidence in himself.\u00a0 As he sat staring at his younger brother he felt a variety of feelings well up inside him \u2013 a mixture of fear, anger and frustration \u2013 but definitely not one of confidence.\u00a0 The truth was that Adam had no idea what to do!\u00a0 His mind was a mixture of confusion and shock, but he tried not to show his younger brother how uncertain he was.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What are we going to do Adam?\u2019 Joe asked tentatively, and waited for his brother to give him a confident answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018The first we are going to do is to make sure that you are decently treated around here,\u2019 replied his brother with more confidence than he felt.\u00a0 \u2018After that we\u2019ll see.\u00a0 I\u2019ve got to think about this Joe.\u00a0 It\u2019s not an easy situation you\u2019ve got us both into here.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded at his brother. \u2018I\u2019ll be all right Adam, \u2018 he said, trying to smile. \u2018Don\u2019t you worry about me.\u00a0 I can look after myself!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam reached out and stroked his younger brother\u2019s curls. \u2018Yeah sure you can little buddy.\u00a0 Sure looks like it at the moment.\u2019 He sighed. \u2018The problem is Joe, that you\u2019re holding onto information that the army really needs, and until you tell them what they want they\u2019re not going to let up on you.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at his brother intently. \u2018You have to tell them Joe.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018But Adam I can\u2019t!\u00a0 I don\u2019t know what they want!\u00a0 I lost the letter, honest I did, but they won\u2019t believe me!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at his brother\u2019s face intently. Years of experience had made him an expert at knowing when the boy was lying, and he knew for sure now that this was not one of those times. \u2018Well I\u2019ll do my best to convince them for you,\u2019 he said. \u2018But \u2026.\u2019 His voice trailed off as he thought about the futility of his words. \u2018Are you sure Joe?\u00a0 There\u2019s no way you know where that letter went?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018It flew out of my hand when I was riding,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 \u2018There was only one page left.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at Adam hopefully. \u2018Can you convince them that I\u2019m telling the truth Adam?\u00a0 Can you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam tried to smile at him. \u2018I\u2019ll try,\u2019 he said. \u2018In the meantime, I want you to remember what I said.\u00a0 Don\u2019t let on that we\u2019re related, and do as I tell you.\u00a0 Do you hear me Joe?\u00a0 For once in your life do as I say!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded eagerly, ready to obey his brother in anything he might ask of him. \u2018Can you get me out of this Adam?\u2019\u00a0 he asked hopefully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t answer.\u00a0 He needed time to think this through, and was beginning to feel quite uncomfortable with his brother\u2019s blind faith in him.\u00a0 He looked into the green eyes that gazed at him so trustingly, and swallowed as he realised just what a difficult time they both would have ahead of them.\u00a0 \u2018Joe I have to go now,\u2019 he said. \u2018I need to think this through and see if I can come up with an idea. I want you to be careful what you say, and just take it easy.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled at him. \u2018Don\u2019t worry about me,\u2019 he said, trying to sound cheerful. \u2018I\u2019ve got nothing else to do today anyway.\u00a0 I\u2019ll just rest here for a bit.\u2019\u00a0 He closed his eyes and Adam patted him on the head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You do that little brother,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018I\u2019ll be back later.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam left the jail cell, his mind was awhirl with possibilities of what he should do.\u00a0 However, nothing he came up with made much sense.\u00a0 On the one hand there was his baby brother who needed him desperately, and Adam knew that he wanted to help that boy just as he had done all his life.\u00a0 On the other hand however, there was his duty and his loyalty to the army, and the oath he had sworn to uphold any order that he was given.\u00a0Damn you Joe!<\/em>\u00a0he cursed.\u00a0How could you do this to me?\u00a0<\/em>He leant against the wall of the building and held his head in his hands as he tried to contain his mind and focus his thoughts. What was he supposed to do now?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sir I\u2019m convinced that he doesn\u2019t know anything,\u2019 Adam said.\u00a0 \u2018I\u2019d be able to tell if he did.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel stared at him. \u2018You\u2019re so sure?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded eagerly. \u2018Yes sir I am,\u2019 he replied. \u2018He\u2019s telling the truth when he says that the letter was lost.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel scratched his chin thoughtfully. \u2018Well maybe so,\u2019 he replied. \u2018Who\u2019s to say. Thank you for trying anyway Captain.\u2019\u00a0 He waved his hand in a gesture of dismissal to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t move. \u2018Sir?\u00a0 What\u2019s going to happen to the boy?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t have much choice I\u2019m afraid, Captain,\u2019 replied the Colonel. \u2018I have to keep the interrogations going.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stared at the man aghast. \u2018Even if it means beating him to death?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Even if he doesn\u2019t know anything?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel glared at him. \u2018Are you questioning my decision Captain?\u2019 he asked frostily. \u2018I don\u2019t like this any more than you do, but I have no choice.\u00a0 That letter is vital, and if there is the slightest chance that that boy knows anything about it, then I have no choice but to pursue this.\u00a0 It could mean the difference to a lot of men whose lives are depending on this.\u00a0 I have to weigh that up against the life of one solider.\u00a0 Now you tell me if I\u2019m making the wrong decision!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam reeled back from the officer. \u2018No sir, it\u2019s not that.\u00a0 It\u2019s just that \u2026.\u2019 his voice trailed off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel stepped forward and put his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Look son, I know how hard this must be for you, seeing as how you know the youngster.\u00a0 But it must be done!\u00a0 Best for you to put it out of your head and get back to that decoding.\u00a0 Let me worry about it for now!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded and left the room before his emotions took over him and he let on more than he wanted to.\u00a0 The trouble was that he knew in his head that the Colonel was right.\u00a0 From a purely objective point of view he knew it made sense to treat the situation in this way.\u00a0 The trouble was of course that Adam couldn\u2019t be objective in all of this, and there was no way that he could make anyone understand that.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He felt sick, and went straight to his room to lay down for a while in the hopes that a solution would come to him.\u00a0 As he lay on his bunk looking at the ceiling, all he could see was his father\u2019s face in front of him looking at him intently.\u00a0 He tried closing his eyes, but the face was still there, and he wondered about what his father would do in this situation.\u00a0 What he wouldn\u2019t give right now to talk to him about it and get his advice!\u00a0 What he wouldn\u2019t give for someone to come and take the decisions away from him.\u00a0 The problem was of course that there was no one to do that, and it just simply was not going to happen.\u00a0\u00a0 The problem was his and his alone, and he doubted that he had the ability to face it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But face it he must!\u00a0 Over in the jail was a youngster who relied on him to get him through this.\u00a0 How could he ever face his father and brother at home if he didn\u2019t do the right thing by his little brother?\u00a0 He tried to imagine just what he would say to them.\u00a0Sorry Pa and Hoss, but I let them kill him.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t try to stop it because I was too scared.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t do anything because I couldn\u2019t go against orders.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Yet how could he go against those orders?\u00a0 Adam prided himself on his loyalty.\u00a0 Not only to his superior officers, but also to his country in general.\u00a0 Wasn\u2019t that one of the things that Pa had said to him before he had left home?\u00a0 Even though he had been so worried, Ben had been very proud of the decision that his son had made, that was obvious.\u00a0 Adam could see it every time he looked into his father\u2019s eyes, and he had swelled with pride to know that he was making him feel this way.\u00a0 Adam would have gone to the ends of the earth to see that look in his father\u2019s eye just one more time.\u00a0\u00a0Please Pa help me!<\/em>\u00a0He prayed.\u00a0What am I going to do?\u00a0 What would you do if you were here?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He rolled over to face the wall and tried to will himself to sleep, but he knew it was a futile exercise.\u00a0 As he lay there his thoughts turned to Little Joe and he felt a surge of anger well up inside of him against the boy.\u00a0 This was so typical of Joe!\u00a0 All his life Adam had been rescuing him from one scrape after another!\u00a0\u00a0Serve him right if I just left him to it this time!\u00a0<\/em>He thought with bitterness.\u00a0\u00a0He deserves it after all!\u00a0 Getting himself into this situation with no thought about anyone else.\u00a0 All this time I\u2019ve spent doing the right thing, and then he comes along and ruins it all for me.\u00a0 Serve him right if I did just leave him to it!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

But this was no childish scrape this time that the boy had gotten himself into.\u00a0 This was a life and death situation.\u00a0 Adam thought back over the years to all the times he had helped his little brother.\u00a0 The twelve-year age gap had meant that Little Joe had looked on Adam as someone who could solve all his problems in life, and Adam had to admit that he had relished being there for his little brother throughout his many scrapes.\u00a0 He remembered the difficult time they had had with him when his mother died.\u00a0 Their father had not coped with her death very well at the time, and it had been up to Adam to try and help the little boy though it.\u00a0 He remembered many nights when the youngster would find his way into his big brother\u2019s bed to cuddle up to him for comfort. He closed his eyes and could almost feel the touch of the silken curls as he stroked them, trying to still the boy\u2019s sobs and get him to drift off to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He remembered the many times the child had earned the wrath of their father, and Adam had tried to stand between them to protect him.\u00a0 The problems he had had at school, the chores he never did, and the childish pranks he had pulled. The list was endless, as Joe had always been the sort of child that his father laughingly referred to as \u2018a challenge.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If only it were that easy now!\u00a0 If only the boy\u2019s problems were as easy to solve as they had been in the past! Adam longed for the days when life had been so simple.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

——————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his brother trustingly, and noticed the downcast look in his eyes. \u2018They didn\u2019t believe what you said to them about me did they?\u2019 he asked. Adam shook his head and sat down on the edge on the narrow bunk. Joe reached out and touched his brother on the arm. \u2018Don\u2019t worry Adam, I\u2019ve been thinking about it.\u00a0 They won\u2019t do anything to me because they need the information.\u00a0 As long as they think I\u2019ve got it, then they can\u2019t do anything to me can they?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stared at him. \u2018You don\u2019t think this is anything?\u2019 he said sarcastically. \u2018Being beaten half to death is nothing?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe flinched at the sound of his words. \u2018I can handle it,\u2019 he said with more confidence than he felt. \u2018Don\u2019t you worry about me Adam, you know I always land on my feet.\u00a0 Pa always says that don\u2019t he?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018Joe you really don\u2019t seem to understand the seriousness of this situation.\u00a0 You won\u2019t be landing on your feet this time kid, cause there\u2019s no way out.\u2019\u00a0\u00a0There he\u2019d said it!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What do you mean?\u2019 said Joe, his eye widening. \u2018Of course there\u2019s a way out!\u00a0 They\u2019ll get sick of me not talking after a while, and they\u2019ll\u00a0 \u2026. they\u2019ll send me off to a prison camp or something.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be OK Adam.\u00a0 The war can\u2019t last for much longer and then they\u2019ll let me go.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at his brother hopefully to gauge his reaction to his words.\u00a0 \u2018They don\u2019t scare me!\u2019\u00a0 He tried to sound very brave, but failed dismally.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well they should!\u2019 said Adam angrily. \u2018This is no game Joe!\u00a0 They mean business and they\u2019re not about to just give up on you and put you in some cushy prison camp.\u00a0 Why don\u2019t you wake up to that!\u2019\u00a0 He spoke with more passion than he had intended, and was instantly sorry as he saw the expression on his brother\u2019s face. He was only a kid after all, and he was trying to appear so brave when underneath it all Adam knew he was scared witless.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sorry Joe, I didn\u2019t mean that!\u00a0 It\u2019s just that I don\u2019t know what to do!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stared at his brother aghast.\u00a0 Adam always knew what to do!\u00a0 There was never a time when he hadn\u2019t!\u00a0 Joe had never heard those words from his brother\u2019s lips before, and they terrified him.\u00a0 There was silence in the room as the two brothers looked at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly the silence was broken by the sound of a key in the lock, and both of them jumped. Adam looked at his brother questioningly, and Joe held up his hands in a gesture of futility. \u2018It\u2019s just them come for me,\u2019 he said. \u2018They come every day.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his hand up to his face in a gesture of despair. \u2018Well not today,\u2019 he said with vehemence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Adam you can\u2019t stop them!\u2019 Joe said. \u2018If you do they\u2019ll wonder why, and you said \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I know, but there must be a way,\u2019 his brother replied. \u2018I can\u2019t let them just take you like this and stand by while they beat you up!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018They do it all the time.\u00a0 I\u2019m used to it now!\u2019\u00a0 He stared at Adam, willing him to contradict him. \u2018If you try to stop them now, then you won\u2019t be helping either of us.\u00a0 You know that! You said so yourself!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The door opened and the Sergeant entered. \u2018Excuse me sir,\u2019 he said to Adam. \u2018But the Colonel\u2019s ready for him now.\u2019\u00a0 He motioned for Joe to get up, and he did so slowly while holding his stomach. Adam sat and stared at the floor, knowing his brother was right, but unable to witness him being taken away in this manner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Wait,\u2019 he said to the Sergeant. \u2018I\u2019ll take him!\u2019\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The man stared at him. \u2018Sir?\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t think the Colonel \u2026\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I said I\u2019d take him!\u2019 repeated Adam and held onto Joe\u2019s arm as he walked out of the door with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0As they walked down the corridor, Joe whispered, \u2018What did you do that for?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shrugged as he continued to walk.\u00a0 He really didn\u2019t know himself why he had done it.\u00a0 All he knew was that he had to try and think of something to try and help his brother, and this was buying him a few extra minutes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As they entered the Interrogation Room, the Colonel looked up in surprise. \u2018Captain?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m delivering the prisoner sir,\u2019 Adam said. \u2018I\u2019ve been questioning him again, and as I said before he doesn\u2019t know anything.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel looked at him, obviously angry. \u2018Thank you Captain,\u2019 he said. \u2018You may go now.\u2019 Adam didn\u2019t move. \u2018I said you may go now Captain,\u2019 the Colonel repeated, and signalled to the two men beside him.\u00a0 They moved forward, grabbed Joe by the arms and pulled him into the small room at the side. Adam moved to follow them, but the Colonel blocked his way. \u2018I said you may go now Captain Cartwright,\u2019 he said meaningfully. \u2018Do as you are told!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men locked eyes for a moment, and Adam opened his mouth to speak. He shut it again as the Colonel held up his hand.\u00a0 \u2018Don\u2019t!\u2019 he said. \u2018I think you should leave now before you say something you might regret Captain. Obviously your knowledge of this youngster is getting in the way of your judgement, and you need to back away from this situation.\u00a0 Until further notice you are to keep yourself away from him is that clear? I\u2019d hate to see you ruin an otherwise promising career with a slanted sense of judgement in one situation.\u2019\u00a0 He turned and followed the men into the other room, shutting the door behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood and listened to the muffled sounds coming from the other room, not able to move.\u00a0 He put his hand up to his face and pushed against the bridge of his nose as he counted to ten, and breathed deeply. Slowly he turned from the door and headed outside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

——————<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

The compound lit up momentarily as the moon came out from behind a cloud, and Adam cursed silently as he drew back into the shadow of the building.\u00a0 No one would have questioned his actions of course if he was seen, but it would make it easier in the long run if he could do this without anyone noticing that he had left his room.\u00a0 As darkness fell again he stepped cautiously forward and walked quickly across to the jail, being careful as he did so to keep in the shadows.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon entering the building he noticed straight away the guard on duty. \u2018Sir? he asked Adam. \u2018Can I help you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m here to see the prisoner,\u2019 Adam replied, and noticed that the man looked confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sir I\u2019m sorry, but my orders are not to let you in,\u2019 replied the man apologetically.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam drew himself to his full height and looked at the man incredulously. \u2018I beg your pardon?\u2019 he said frostily. \u2018And just where did that order come from?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The man swallowed. \u2018The Colonel himself sir, he answered nervously. \u2018He said no one was to see him unless they had express permission from him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Are you aware that I have been working on this project?\u2019 asked Adam disdainfully. \u2018I\u2019m sure the Colonel\u2019s orders do not include me!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Actually they do,\u2019 said the man.\u00a0 \u2018I\u2019m sorry sir, but \u2026.. \u2018<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam waved his hand. \u2018Would you like to come with me and we\u2019ll check on that Corporal?\u2019 he said. \u2018Mind you, I\u2019d hate to be the one to wake the Colonel up at this hour, but if that\u2019s what you are going to insist on \u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018But sir \u2026.\u2019 The man\u2019s voice trailed off. \u2018I\u2019m only following orders!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018And I\u2019m giving you another one,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018I wish to see the prisoner, and I wish to see him immediately! Now are we going to stand here and argue about it, or are you going to come with me to the Colonel?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The man stepped aside. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he said. \u2018This way.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam breathed a sigh of relief. He really didn\u2019t know what he would have done if the man had not given in, and he was extremely relieved to realise that he wouldn\u2019t now have to find out.\u00a0 When they got to the cell door, he took the key from the man and said. \u2018I\u2019ll let myself out when I\u2019ve finished and return the key to you then.\u00a0 Thank you Corporal.\u2019\u00a0 The man gave him a worried look, but did as he was told and handed over the key before leaving.\u00a0 Adam breathed another sigh of relief and opened the door quickly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was lying on the bunk, curled into a ball and holding his stomach.\u00a0 \u2018Joe!\u2019 said Adam softly. \u2018Wake up!\u2019\u00a0 The boy didn\u2019t respond, and Adam bent over him to see if he were asleep or not.\u00a0 He noticed his brother\u2019s tightly clenched jaw and shallow breathing and cursed again softly under his breath. \u2018Joe!\u00a0 Buddy wake up!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes and looked up at his brother. \u2018Hi Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018How come you\u2019re here in the middle of the night?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve come to get you out of here.\u00a0 Do you think you\u2019re up to it?\u2019 Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe tried to sit up, and managed to get as far as to prop himself up on one elbow. \u2018I\u2019ll sure try,\u2019 he replied. \u2018I\u2019ll give it my best shot!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his arm around his brother\u2019s waist and pulled him to a standing position. \u2018You have to Joe.\u00a0 This is the one chance I\u2019ll get to get you away. Come on, but be quiet!\u2019 He locked the door from the outside when they had left the room and whispered to his brother. \u2018Now when we get down to the guard I\u2019ll keep him talking while you slip outside.\u00a0 Wait for me just outside the door, and don\u2019t move.\u00a0 Do you hear me?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded silently, his eyes never leaving his brother\u2019s for a moment.\u00a0 He was prepared to get down on his belly and crawl if Adam told him too, so sure was he that his older brother would get him out of this.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam led his brother down the corridor and motioned to him to stand in the shadows as he approached the guard. \u2018Here you are Corporal,\u2019 he said as he handed him the keys. \u2018Thank you.\u2019\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The man turned and looked at Adam as he held his hand out for the keys. \u2018That was quick,\u2019 he said in surprise. \u2018I thought you needed to talk to him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shrugged his shoulders as he looked directly at the man, trying not to allow his eyes to move to the spot behind him where he knew his younger brother would be creeping. \u2018He\u2019s asleep, so I\u2019ll come back in the morning,\u2019 he said. \u2018No use talking to him so soon after one of his sessions.\u00a0 He makes no sense when he\u2019s like that.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah I\u2019ve noticed,\u2019 replied the corporal. \u2018They\u2019ve really been working him over. He might make more sense in the morning.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded and left.\u00a0 As he reached outside he searched the shadows for a sign of his brother, and jumped when a hand was placed on his shoulder from behind. \u2018Here,\u2019 said a soft voice, and he turned to see Joe standing behind him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Are you all right?\u2019 Adam asked as he noticed Joe sway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be OK,\u2019 his brother replied. \u2018What happens now?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Follow me,\u2019 said Adam quietly.\u00a0 \u2018And stay in the shadows.\u2019\u00a0 He led his brother around the building towards the back of the compound where a horse was saddled and waiting. \u2018Get up,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m going to let you out the supply entry.\u00a0 No one should be around there at this time.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hesitated. \u2018Aren\u2019t you coming with me?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018You know I can\u2019t,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018But Adam!\u00a0 They\u2019ll know it was you who let me go! You\u2019ll be in serious trouble!\u2019\u00a0 Joe looked at his brother with pleading eyes. \u2018You have to come with me Adam.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his hands on his brother\u2019s shoulders. \u2018Joe I can\u2019t.\u00a0 Don\u2019t you understand? If I leave with you now it will be a sure sign of what happened.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be marked as a deserter, and if they catch me I\u2019ll be shot. No buddy, you have to go by yourself.\u00a0 Head towards the West and you should meet up with some Confederate troops within a couple of hours. Keep your head down and ride!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018But Adam\u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I said to get up there!\u2019 Adam pushed his brother up onto the horse and led him to the small gate in the fence nearby. \u2018Get going Joe. Quickly!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t move. \u2018But what are you going to tell them?\u00a0 They\u2019ll know you helped me!\u2019 he insisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018No they won\u2019t.\u00a0 I\u2019m going back to the jail first thing in the morning to supposedly see you again.\u00a0 I\u2019m going to give myself a knock on the head and pretend that you overpowered me and escaped.\u00a0 They\u2019ll believe me, but by that time you\u2019ll be long gone.\u2019\u00a0 He looked up at his brother. \u2018Believe me Joe, it\u2019ll work! Now get out of here!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned his horse, but hesitated. \u2018Adam?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks!\u2019 His eyes brimmed with tears, and he hoped that his brother couldn\u2019t see them in the darkness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam patted him on the arm. \u2018Just get yourself safely out of here little brother. And Joe?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018See you back at The Ponderosa when this is all over!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe tried to smile at him. \u2018Sure will older brother!\u2019\u00a0 He turned and left.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood and watched for a moment, then quietly closed the gate.\u00a0 As he turned towards the building again he said a fervent prayer that his little brother would make it, and that they would have the opportunity to see each other again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Just one more time Captain,\u2019 Colonel Wilson said impatiently. \u2018Explain to me again why you were seeing the prisoner?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam swallowed nervously. \u2018I wanted to talk to him sir.\u00a0 I thought perhaps I might be able to get through to him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel looked at him suspiciously. \u2018I thought you said he was telling the truth when he said he didn\u2019t know where the letter was,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Maybe I was wrong.\u00a0 It was like you said Colonel, we really had no choice but to keep on with the investigation.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018And you sought him out against my express orders?\u2019\u00a0 he said. \u2018Could you kindly tell me why?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sir I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 It\u2019s just that I really though I could get him to talk. Seeing as how I knew him.\u2019 Adam watched the officer carefully for a reaction, but got none.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I see. That\u2019s right, you knew him didn\u2019t you?\u2019 Adam cursed himself inwardly for reminding him of that fact. \u2018And just how well did you know him Captain?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hesitated. \u2018Quite well sir,\u2019 he said. \u2018He came from Nevada where I\u2019m from.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes, so you said.\u2019\u00a0 The Colonel stared at him for a full two minutes before speaking again. \u2018Captain you do realise what the punishment for aiding a prisoner to escape is, don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded, trying not to show his discomfort. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Good.\u00a0 I just want to make sure we both understand each other.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel stood up and began to pace in front of his desk. \u2018Just how badly off was this young man Captain?\u00a0 Would you say that the beatings he had taken had left him, shall we say, incapacitated?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sir?\u2019 Adam didn\u2019t like the way the conversation was headed and glanced at the officer nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Would you say the young man was capable of overpowering a strong man such as yourself after all he had been through?\u2019 the Colonel continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Obviously he was sir,\u2019 replied Adam, \u2018or it wouldn\u2019t have happened as I said.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No that\u2019s right. It wouldn\u2019t have happened like you said would it?\u2019 the Colonel asked, staring at Adam directly. \u2018Do you realise how serious this is?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Yes sir I do.\u00a0 The youngster\u2019s information was vital to us.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel stroked his chin as he nodded. \u2018Yes it was vital,\u2019 he said. \u2018And I want you to know Captain that I do not intend to let this matter rest. I do not for one minute believe your story, and I am going to see to it that I get the whole truth from you.\u00a0 Do you understand me?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018I am telling you the truth sir,\u2019 he lied, looking the Colonel directly in the eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Colonel strode over to the door and opened it. \u2018Sergeant!\u2019 he said. \u2018In here!\u2019 He turned to Adam. \u2018You may consider yourself under arrest Captain Cartwright.\u00a0 I assure you that you will tell me the whole story one way or another.\u2019\u00a0 He motioned with his hand for Adam to leave.\u00a0 \u2018Sergeant, escort the Captain to the jail!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

PART 3<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>
\nPonderosa Ranch<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Nevada<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

March 1865<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben straightened up and eased his back as he looked at the mess in front of him.\u00a0 It seemed like there were never enough hours in the day lately to get everything done, and something like cleaning out the tack room seemed to get always pushed to the back of his busy schedule.\u00a0 Not that he really needed to be the one to do this particular job!\u00a0 There were many hands on the ranch would have obliged him if he had asked them to, but the truth was that he needed to keep busy and this particular job made him feel closer to his youngest son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Cleaning the tack room had been Joe\u2019s job since the boy was old enough to take on the responsibility.\u00a0 Ben smiled to himself as he thought about that.\u00a0 The words Joseph and responsibility somehow didn\u2019t fit together too well, and Ben had always had a constant battle with the boy to make sure that this particular chore was done.\u00a0 But then, he\u2019d always had a battle with the boy to make sure any of his chores were done.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He looked around the room and bent to pick another saddle and lift it to its right place.\u00a0 What he wouldn\u2019t give right now to have the opportunity to lecture the boy again on his responsibilities! If only he knew he would have that opportunity again! He bent his head and said a silent prayer for both his boys as he did so often.\u00a0\u00a0Lord protect them,<\/em>\u00a0he said to himself.\u00a0Bring them home safe to me!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u2018Pa, are you OK?\u2019\u00a0 He turned to see Hoss standing behind him with a worried look on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I\u2019m fine son,\u2019 he replied. \u2018Just getting this tack room cleaned out.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked at his father for a moment. \u2018You want some help?\u2019 Ben nodded, and Hoss bent to help him pick up another saddle. \u2018Sure wish that younger brother of mine would hurry home so I could get back ta ordering him ta do this instead of me!\u2019 Hoss declared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u2018I\u2019m sure he won\u2019t be too much longer now.\u00a0 The signs are that this war is just about over now.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure that both of them will be home soon Hoss.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019m not surprised that we haven\u2019t heard from Little Joe in a while, but it\u2019s sure surprising that Adam hasn\u2019t written fer so long,\u2019 Hoss said.\u00a0 \u2018I just hope he\u2019s OK.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled at him. \u2018I\u2019m sure he is son.\u00a0 We would have heard from someone if he wasn\u2019t.\u2019 But he spoke with a confidence that he just didn\u2019t feel. Adam had always sent letters so regularly, but a few months ago they had just stopped, and Ben couldn\u2019t help but feel a great sense of foreboding about it.\u00a0 Joseph they hadn\u2019t heard from at all, apart from that first letter he had written when he had first been accepted into the Cavalry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s first reaction when he had received the letter was to get straight down to Georgia and demand that the boy come home with him.\u00a0 The army couldn\u2019t possibly insist on keeping him once Ben had let them know the boy\u2019s true age!\u00a0 It was only the insistence of Hoss that he bide his time that made him refrain from doing so.\u00a0 As they both knew, the chances of him even finding the boy were remote and it was a futile exercise.\u00a0 Nevertheless, Ben resolved to give that boy a piece of his mind when he saw him again. He just prayed that he would have the opportunity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Joseph had first left, his father\u2019s reaction had been one of panic. He blamed himself really, for the boy had been determined to go and he should have worked harder at convincing him not too.\u00a0 The day he had found Joseph\u2019s note had been one of the darkest that he could remember, and if it hadn\u2019t been for Hoss \u2026\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked over at his middle son, and smiled at him.\u00a0 What would he have done without this boy of his during the last few months when he needed him most?\u00a0 Hoss had always been steadfast, but he had shown a strength of character to his father in recent times that Ben had only guessed at before.\u00a0 He had been a tower of strength to his father, and without him Ben didn\u2019t know how he would have got through it. \u00a0Hoss was no doubt hurting as well and missing both his brothers greatly, but he constantly looked to support his father in any way he could think of.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Joseph had first left, Hoss had been the one to go after him.\u00a0 He insisted that he had more of a chance of finding the boy, and Ben knew that he was right.\u00a0 He would never forget the defeated look on his son\u2019s face when he finally arrived back at the ranch all those weeks later with the news that his younger brother was no where to be found.\u00a0 By that time, of course, Ben had received Joseph\u2019s letter, and it was Hoss who convinced him to let it lie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They had leant on each other during the last few months, anxiously awaiting any news that might come their way about the two men who were so dear to them. \u00a0Ben hoped with all his heart that the wait wouldn\u2019t take too much longer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on son, lunch will be ready,\u2019 he said. \u2018You know what Hop Sing gets like if we\u2019re late. Let\u2019s leave this until later.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss smiled at his father and put down a saddle. \u2018Sure thing Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I am a bit hungry!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

His father laughed. \u2018Really?\u00a0 I never would have thought it!\u2019\u00a0 He slapped his son on the back and they walked out of the barn together, but at the sound of a rider approaching the yard they both turned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Who could that be?\u2019 asked Hoss. \u2018You ain\u2019t expecting anyone are ya Pa?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said, and squinted his eyes in the bright sunlight to see who it might be. \u2018I\u2019m not really \u2026\u2026.. Oh my God!\u2019\u00a0 He jerked forward as the rider entered the yard and he realised who it was. \u2018Joseph!\u00a0 Joseph!\u2019\u00a0 He ran towards the horse as it pulled to a stop, and his youngest son slid down from the saddle.\u00a0 \u2018Joseph!\u2019 he cried again and hugged the boy tightly to him as if he would never let him go.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned at Hoss over his father\u2019s shoulder as he was held in the tight embrace. Hoss stepped forward and ruffled his brother\u2019s unruly curls, and then put his arms around his father and brother both together. The three of them stood like that for a few moments, until Joe called out. \u2018I can\u2019t breathe!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Immediately his brother and father let go of him, but Ben kept hold of his shoulders as he looked the boy up and down.\u00a0 \u2018You look exhausted,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 \u2018Let\u2019s get you inside boy!\u2019\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe needed no second bidding.\u00a0 He did feel on the point of exhaustion, and began to sway a little on his feet. \u2018That\u2019d be great Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I do feel like sitting down for a bit.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss stepped forward and put his arm around his younger brother\u2019s waist. \u2018Here shortshanks, let me help ya!\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned at him. \u2018Sure is good to hear you call me that again older brother,\u2019 he said leaning on his brother gratefully. \u2018Seems like ages since I heard that name.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It has been ages,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Come on little buddy, let\u2019s get ya inside!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Once inside and seated on the sofa, Joe looked around him with a sigh. \u2018It sure is good to be home!\u2019 he said contentedly. He looked at his father hovering over him and said softly, \u2018I\u2019ve missed you Pa.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben held his son\u2019s head in his hands and looked into his eyes intently. \u2018I\u2019ve missed you too boy.\u00a0 We both have. I\u2019m just so grateful to have you home again.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe bit his lip. \u2018I thought you would have been mad with me Pa. You know, after I ran away and all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sat down next to his son on the sofa. \u2018Now isn\u2019t the time to talk about that Joseph. There\u2019s plenty of time later.\u00a0 The important thing for now is that you\u2019re home safe and sound.\u2019 He put his arms around his son again. \u2018Safe and sound,\u2019 he whispered. \u2018And I thank the Lord that at least one of my boys is home at last.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe drew back from his father and looked at him. \u2018Adam?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his head.\u00a0 \u2018We haven\u2019t heard from him in quite a while.\u00a0 Not since last October. But I\u2019m sure he\u2019s all right,\u2019 he added hastily as he saw the expression on his youngest son\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Last October?\u2019 Joe echoed. \u2018Not since October Pa?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 Ben said gently. \u2018But there\u2019s been a lot happening since then as I\u2019m sure you know.\u00a0 Your brother has probably not had a chance to write that\u2019s all.\u00a0 We would have heard if something had happened to him \u2013 I\u2019m sure nothing has.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe put his head down into his hands. \u2018I\u2019m not so sure about that Pa.\u00a0 It seems like I have a lot to tell you about.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So you see Pa, I\u2019m responsible for it all,\u2019 said Little Joe looking up at his father with tears in his eyes. \u2018If it wasn\u2019t for me, then Adam would probably be here right now, instead of \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He hesitated to say what was in his mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t you say that Joseph!\u2019 admonished his father. \u2018I told you before.\u00a0 Adam is probably just delayed, that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father, knowing that the doubt that was in his own mind was mirrored in his father\u2019s as well. He hung his head as he said quietly. \u2018I\u2019m \u2026. I\u2019m so sorry Pa. I should have listened to you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes you should have Joseph,\u2019 his father said. \u2018But what\u2019s past is past son, and there\u2019s no going back now.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I need to ask for your forgiveness Pa.\u00a0 I should never have gone off the way I did and hurt you like that.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put his hand on his son\u2019s neck and stroked it gently. \u2018No son, you don\u2019t have to ask for my forgiveness.\u00a0 I gave that to you a long time ago.\u00a0 I was very angry with you for quite a while after you left, and I will be honest and tell you that I was and am still quite disappointed in your actions.\u00a0 But you don\u2019t have to ask for my forgiveness.\u00a0 That\u2019s what father\u2019s are for after all.\u2019\u00a0 He smiled at the boy, wanting to ease his pain. \u2018A father\u2019s love isn\u2019t part time you know Joe.\u00a0 It\u2019s for always.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head, unable to speak for a few moments. \u2018But Pa, that still doesn\u2019t help Adam does it?\u2019 he said when he was able to find his voice. \u2018I\u2019ll never forgive myself if anything had happened to him because of me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe, Adam made his own decision about what to do.\u00a0 There was nothing you could have done to change his mind.\u00a0 You know how determined your older brother is when his mind is set on something.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah.\u00a0 But he wouldn\u2019t have had to make any decision if I hadn\u2019t ended up there,\u2019 Joe replied. \u2018I forced him into it, and now he\u2019s probably \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben pulled his son\u2019s face towards him. \u2018Enough of that!\u00a0 I told you that your brother is all right and that\u2019s what I want you to believe! I don\u2019t want to hear that kind of talk again Joseph.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018All right Pa. But I\u2019ll sure be glad when he gets home.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So will I Joseph, so will I!<\/em>\u00a0 Ben thought to himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked out the window at the tall pine-covered peaks that surrounded them, and took a deep breath.\u00a0 Behind him his youngest boy lay sleeping in his bed, but peaceful was not a term that Ben would use to describe his son\u2019s slumber.\u00a0 He tossed and turned constantly, occasionally muttering to himself.\u00a0 After the story he had told Ben, his father couldn\u2019t really blame him though, the boy had been through an awful lot in his time away from them all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He turned and looked at the boy on the bed behind him. It was true that he still felt a great deal of anger at what he had done, and after hearing the story of what had happened to him a great deal of anxiety as well.\u00a0 He doubted that Joseph even now realised how close he had come to never making it home again, but one thing he was sure the boy did realise was how much danger he had placed his brother in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben felt a shiver down his spine as he thought of his oldest son, still out there. He really wasn\u2019t as confident as he let on that Adam was all right, and he knew that Hoss saw through his words as well. The fact that they hadn\u2019t heard from him since October was bad enough, but it was exactly that time when Joe had left Fort McAllister, and if Adam was implicated in his disappearance, then \u2026. Ben shook his head and refused to allow his mind to go there.\u00a0 He had to keep thinking positively if he wanted to keep thoughts of his oldest son still being alive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He knew that he had to keep positive for Joseph\u2019s sake as well.\u00a0 The boy had been through enough without the guilt of his brother\u2019s death hanging over his head as well.\u00a0 If it were true that Adam wasn\u2019t destined to return, then there was time enough in the future to deal with all of that.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He sat down on the edge of the bed and stroked his son\u2019s curly hair as the boy tossed again under the covers.\u00a0Thank you Lord for bringing this child of my heart back to me again.\u00a0 Would it be too much to ask you for one more thing Lord?\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>He prayed.\u00a0Keep my other boy safe!\u00a0 Make us a whole family again and bring him back to me as well.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

————–<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

\u2018Joe? You didn\u2019t come home for lunch son.\u00a0 Hop Sing\u2019s mighty riled up with you.\u2019\u00a0 Ben sat down next to his son on the grass and studied his profile in the sunlight. When Joe didn\u2019t answer him he said, \u2018I think you\u2019d better think of a way to make it up to him don\u2019t you?\u2019\u00a0 Still there was silence from his son. \u2018Maybe you\u2019d better spend some time this afternoon making sure that wood box is full.\u2019\u00a0 Ben leant over and touched the boy on his arm. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said anxiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe jerked around to face his father. \u2018What? Oh Pa, sorry.\u00a0 What did you say?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled at him. \u2018I was wondering why you didn\u2019t come home for lunch,\u2019 he said. \u2018I somehow thought I might find you up here.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled back at him. \u2018You know me well don\u2019t you Pa?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben laughed. \u2018I would certainly hope so by now young man!\u00a0 If I didn\u2019t after all this time, there\u2019d be something wrong, don\u2019t you think?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I suppose so.\u2019 Joe leant his chin on his hand and stared into the blue lake in front of them. \u2018I\u2019ve just been thinking about things,\u2019 he said after a minute.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Things?\u201d asked his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Mmm. About when I was little and how Adam and Hoss used to look after me all the time when you weren\u2019t around.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at his son anxiously. \u2018Joe \u2026..\u2019 he began.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You know I always thought Adam was just about the smartest person there was. Apart from you,\u2019 Joe added sheepishly looking sideways at his father. \u2018Still do really.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He certainly always had a sensible head on his shoulders,\u2019 agreed his father. \u2018But no one is ever perfect Joe.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh I know that Pa.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure from your point of view you had lots to teach Adam.\u00a0 But as far as I was concerned he always knew so much you know?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well son, there\u2019s a big age gap between you.\u00a0 To a little boy I\u2019m sure an older brother knows quite a bit.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned to face his father. \u2018But it wasn\u2019t just knowing things Pa.\u00a0 It was all that other stuff as well.\u00a0 You know, like when mama died. He was \u2026.. well, he was just \u2026. he looked after me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put his arm around his son\u2019s shoulders. \u2018I know. I didn\u2019t cope too well at that time, and I was sure grateful to your brother for looking after you so well.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hung his head. \u2018He was such a good brother to me Pa. And I gave him such a hard time.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018He still is a good brother to you Joe, and rest assured you\u2019ll have the chance to give him a hard time again.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You really think so Pa?\u2019 Joe looked into his father\u2019s eyes trustingly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I know so son.\u00a0 I have to believe that and so do you. If we don\u2019t, well, we\u2019re giving up on your brother aren\u2019t we?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018I suppose so. I guess Adam wouldn\u2019t want us to give up on him would he?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No he would not!\u00a0 Now let\u2019s stop this nonsense and get back to the ranch young man.\u00a0 You\u2019ve got a busy afternoon at that woodpile ahead of you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on, I\u2019ll explain it on the way home.\u2019\u00a0 Ben stood up and pulled the youngster to his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

Virginia City<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Nevada<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

June 1865<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sure looks great, don\u2019t ya think Pa?\u2019 asked Hoss with delight as he surveyed the street in front of him. \u2018Never seen the town so gussied up before!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018There\u2019s never been better reason,\u2019 replied his father with a smile.\u00a0 \u2018It\u2019s not every day we celebrate the end of a War son.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at both his father and brother.\u00a0 He could see in their faces the effort that it took for them to appear happy today, yet he knew that every part of this celebration was going to be a reminder that their family was still not complete. In all these months there still had not been any word from his brother Adam, and Joe knew with each day that passed that the chances of any one of them ever seeing him again were becoming less.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Every time he thought about it he was filled with such an aching feeling that he found it hard to bear.\u00a0 He knew without anyone telling him that it was his fault that Adam hadn\u2019t returned.\u00a0 No matter what Pa and Hoss said it didn\u2019t make any difference.\u00a0 No matter how they tried to justify his brother\u2019s absence it didn\u2019t make any difference.\u00a0 No matter how often they tried to deflect the blame away from him it didn\u2019t make any difference.\u00a0 Joe knew the guilt belonged on his shoulders and he could not get away from it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t feel much like celebrating the end of a War when the side he had supported had lost, and he definitely didn\u2019t feel like celebrating when his brother was still missing.\u00a0 The only reason he had come into town today had been for the sake of his father and Hoss, and he knew that he was the reason they had come in as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

His father had said that\u2019s what families were all about.\u00a0 They did things for each other.\u00a0 It was certainly the way he had always encouraged them to behave.\u00a0 People around town always referred to them as The Cartwright Brothers, that was for sure, but lately it had come to have a hollow ring about it and their number had diminished from three to two. He guessed that there were a lot of families feeling like this across the country at the moment.\u00a0 They would be happy that the war had ended, but sad because their families were forever changed.\u00a0 It was a mixed blessing as Pa had said!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Do you want to Joe?\u2019 he felt his father\u2019s hand on his shoulder, and realised that he hadn\u2019t heard what he had said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry Pa. What did you say?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I asked if you wanted to go and see the fireworks now,\u2019 his father repeated patiently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh yeah, sure,\u2019 said Joe without much enthusiasm. Whatever you say Pa.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The three Cartwrights joined the increasing throng that were making their way towards the outskirts of town where the fireworks were being set up.\u00a0 They found a space in a clearing where they could get a good view, and sat down to enjoy the show.\u00a0 The Chinese community had provided the fireworks, and everyone had been looking forward to this unusual event.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Joe watched the amazing colours light up the sky above him, he felt a great void in the pit of his stomach and wanted nothing but to get away from this place. He felt an overwhelming need for solitude to be alone with his thoughts, and glanced at his father beside him to see if he would notice.\u00a0 Hoss and Ben were both looking up at the sky entranced and didn\u2019t stir as Joe moved quietly away from them and positioned himself away from them under a tree.\u00a0 He sat with his knees drawn up to his chest, hugging them tightly to him as he continued to watch the sky above him. After a few moments he put his head down and wept the tears he had been longing to release all day.\u00a0 Tears for the brother he had lost and tears for the future that was ahead without him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder and a familiar voice say. \u2018Might have known you\u2019d get back before me.\u00a0 What did you do little buddy, steal a horse from someone?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up to see his eldest brother\u2019s smiling face looking down at him. \u2018Adam?\u2019 he said incredulously. \u2018Adam?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Who else?\u2019 replied his brother with a huge grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe flung his arms around his brother\u2019s neck and squeezed him tight. \u2018I don\u2019t believe it!\u2019 he said joyfully. \u2018Where did you come from?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam tried to talk through his brother\u2019s embrace. \u2018Back East actually,\u2019 he said in a matter-of-fact way. \u2018Will you let me go for a minute?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe loosened his grip on his brother. \u2018Sorry!\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m just so glad to see you Adam!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Me too little buddy,\u2019 replied his brother. \u2018Where\u2019s Pa?\u2019 He looked around the crowd.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe jumped up. \u2018\u2019Over here!\u2019 he said excitedly. \u2018Pa! Pa!\u2019 he yelled in the direction that his father and brother had been sitting. He jumped over towards them. \u2018Pa!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben turned around at the sound of his youngest son\u2019s voice. \u2018Joseph!\u00a0 Would you please keep your voice down! I don\u2019t think \u2026\u2026\u2019 his voice trailed away as he noticed the tall figure following Joe out of the shadows. \u2018My God! Adam!\u2019 He practically leapt at his son and held him in a tight embrace, Hoss a fraction of a second behind him. \u2018Adam! Adam!\u2019 he kept repeating over and over again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stood beside them and watched laughing out loud at the expression on everyone\u2019s faces as they realised what was taking place.\u00a0 Gradually the word spread around the groups that surrounded them that Adam Cartwright had returned, and the crowd broke into spontaneous applause as they watched the family reunion unfold in front of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s heart felt like it would burst, and he looked upwards to the sky at the sparkling rockets that were exploding there.\u00a0 The sight mirrored what was in his own heart and he laughed again for the sheer thrill of it all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t understand it. You mean you didn\u2019t get either of my letters?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018If I\u2019d realised that Pa, then I would have sent you a wire. I\u2019m sorry you\u2019ve had to go through all that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It wasn\u2019t to be helped,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018The only thing that matters is that you\u2019ve come home safe and sound. Both my boys have!\u2019 he beamed around at them all as they sat around the fireplace.\u00a0 It seemed like so long since they had all sat here together that he had almost forgotten just how good it felt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well I should have thought about it I guess,\u2019 continued Adam. \u2018After all, things were in chaos over there.\u00a0 I really shouldn\u2019t have expected that the mail would have got through.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So where have ya been Adam,\u2019 asked Hoss. \u2018It\u2019s been months since we heard from ya. What were ya doing all that time?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I ended up in Atlanta actually,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018There was so much to be done there.\u00a0 I really should have stayed longer, but as soon as troops started to be discharged I asked permission to go.\u00a0 I just wanted to get home as quickly as possible.\u2019\u00a0 He stretched his long legs out in front of him towards the fireplace. \u2018Sure feels good to be here!\u2019 he declared. \u2018So how did you get home so quickly little brother?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scratched his head. \u2018I didn\u2019t last long once I left you,\u2019 he said. \u2018Our troops were on the run, so I just kind of \u2026. Well there was no one to tell us what to do, so we just kind of disbanded.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam raised his eyebrow. \u2018You mean you just deserted?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Joe!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well!\u2019 said Joe indignantly. \u2018No one was hanging around!\u00a0 Don\u2019t see why I should have! The officers were going as well!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. He would never understand this youngest brother of his!\u00a0 According to what Pa had told him, he could hardly wait to get into the army, and now he was saying that he could hardly wait to get out!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Adam?\u2019 ventured Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I need to ask you something. They obviously believed you about when you helped me to get away, but did you \u2026 I mean\u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You mean did I have any trouble getting away with it?\u2019 Adam finished for him. Joe nodded. \u2018Actually Joe, the Colonel didn\u2019t believe me at all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his brother aghast. \u2018You mean they knew you helped me?\u00a0 How come they didn\u2019t shoot you then?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Because they couldn\u2019t prove it!\u2019 Adam replied.\u00a0 \u2018I told you my plan would work.\u00a0 It\u2019s time you learned little brother that I\u2019m usually right in these things.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe made a face at him. \u2018Yeah and don\u2019t you always let everyone know it!\u2019 he said. \u2018So they didn\u2019t punish you at all?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Depends what you mean by punish,\u2019 replied his brother. \u2018Let\u2019s just say that I didn\u2019t finish the war as a Captain.\u2019\u00a0 He paused to let it sink in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Huh?\u2019 Joe looked at him puzzled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018They demoted me,\u2019 Adam explained. \u2018After you left it became Lieutenant Cartwright.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh Adam, I\u2019m sorry!\u2019 exclaimed Joe looking at his brother with sorrowful eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Why?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well because\u2026. because you \u2026 well, they took your rank away from you,\u2019 replied Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shrugged his shoulders. \u2018So?\u00a0 It was no big deal.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his brother with wide eyes. \u2018No big deal?\u2019 he said incredulously. \u2018But Adam, you really loved being in the army.\u00a0 You really wanted those promotions when you got them.\u00a0 You told Pa so in your letters.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leant forward and touched his younger brother on the shoulder. \u2018Yes I did,\u2019 he said. \u2018All of that is true Joe.\u00a0 But there was one thing more important to me than any decoration or rank they could give me.\u00a0 You!\u2019 He smiled. \u2018I would have given up everything I had in that army to keep you safe.\u00a0 You are worth much more to me than a reputation. Don\u2019t you know that?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe put his hand over his brother\u2019s. \u2018Yeah I guess I do!\u2019 he said softly. \u2018And you sure did a good job of it.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry I made things hard for you over there Adam.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed. \u2018So what\u2019s different?\u2019 he said. \u2018You make things hard for me here too little brother. You always have!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe laughed as he saw the glint in his brother\u2019s eyes. \u2018Just doing my job older brother, just doing my job!\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

——————<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leant on the corral fence and watched his youngest brother on the bucking horse. \u2018Stick on him Joe,\u2019 he yelled. \u2018You can do it!\u2019\u00a0 He laughed as the youngster was thrown again and glared at the horse before mounting up for a third time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Never learns does he?\u2019 Adam turned to see his father standing beside him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018He never does.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put his hand on Adam\u2019s hand where it rested on the top rung on the fence. \u2018There\u2019s been something I\u2019ve been wanting to say to you son,\u2019 he said. Adam looked at him surprised at the serious tone in his voice. \u2018I wanted to thank you son for what you did for Joseph.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Pa you don\u2019t have \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben held up his hand. \u2018Yes son I do. You made me very proud of you Adam.\u00a0 You took a great risk for your brother and I know what it cost you to do that.\u00a0 I want to thank you for giving me back my son.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at his father. \u2018Well, I kind of share him with you don\u2019t I Pa?\u2019 he said as he turned towards the corral and watched the boy on the horse again. \u2018At least I\u2019ve always felt that way.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018You\u2019ve been like a second father to him many times son, I don\u2019t mind sharing him with you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well I wish you\u2019d do it for a while at the moment,\u2019 said Adam with a grin. \u2018You know Pa, he\u2019s so grateful to me for what he thinks I did for him, that he\u2019s driving me mad!\u00a0 Every time I turn around he\u2019s underfoot trying to do something for me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s only trying to show you how grateful he is to you son,\u2019 said Ben with a twinkle in his eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I know, but he\u2019s making me crazy!\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018Can\u2019t you get him away from me for a while?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben laughed. \u2018How about I take him with me into town for a while tomorrow,\u2019 he suggested. \u2018That should give you a chance to have some time to yourself for a while.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you!\u2019 said Adam gratefully. \u2018But if I were you I\u2019d watch him carefully while he\u2019s there.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What do you mean?\u2019 asked Ben puzzled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well yesterday when we were in town, I heard him entertaining a whole group of young ladies in there with stories about his war adventures,\u2019 said Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Mmm.\u00a0 From the sound of it, you\u2019d have thought he\u2019d won the war single-handedly. Whereas in fact he never even saw any action at all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018I think that young man and I are going to have a serious talk on the way into town tomorrow,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Good luck!\u2019 said Adam as he turned away from the fence. \u2018Oh and if Joe\u2019s looking for me when he\u2019s finished here, don\u2019t tell him where I\u2019ve gone will you Pa?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Wouldn\u2019t dream of it son,\u2019 laughed Ben as he turned to watch the young rider on the horse fall for the third time. \u2018Wouldn\u2019t dream of it!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The End<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Disclaimer:\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0The Civil War causes a rift in the Cartwright family<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0T (29,535 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":3071,"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":[1091,7,23,1007],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2066","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-adam-joe","category-a-u","category-drama","category-joe-cartwright","wpcat-1091-id","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1007-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2029,"today_views":1},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/civilwar.jpg?fit=384%2C348&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":13630,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13630","url_meta":{"origin":2066,"position":0},"title":"A Cry for Freedom (by JennieA)","author":"JennieA","date":"January 7, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 It started with Ben giving Little Joe more responsibility for the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Little did the family realize the course Ben was setting in motion. Rating:\u00a0 R\u00a0 (65,725 words) Due to subject matter contained in this series, the stories are only available via e:mail from the author -- ryjennie@comcast.net","rel":"","context":"In "Action\/Adventure"","block_context":{"text":"Action\/Adventure","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=2"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/4Cs.jpg?fit=400%2C401&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":12132,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12132","url_meta":{"origin":2066,"position":1},"title":"Chinese Molasses (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"January 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. Any reader wishing to read this series should e:mail the Brandsters:\u00a0 Brandsters2020@gmail.com","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\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12134,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12134","url_meta":{"origin":2066,"position":2},"title":"In My Father’s House (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"May 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. Any reader wishing to read this series should e:mail the Brandsters:\u00a0 Brandsters2020@gmail.com","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Pondarosa-House-3.jpg?fit=564%2C401&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Pondarosa-House-3.jpg?fit=564%2C401&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Pondarosa-House-3.jpg?fit=564%2C401&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12120,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12120","url_meta":{"origin":2066,"position":3},"title":"Blundered Seduction (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"December 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Caught with his pants down and in a compromising situation by the one person he'd least likely want to find him as such, Joe learns three valuable lessons; no one ever died of embarrassment, chose your friends carefully, and being 16 and still a virgin is nothing to be\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":12133,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12133","url_meta":{"origin":2066,"position":4},"title":"Frightened Beyond Reason (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"June 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. Any reader wishing to read this series should e:mail the Brandsters:\u00a0 Brandsters2020@gmail.com","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\/11\/2-joe.jpg?fit=237%2C221&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":6325,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6325","url_meta":{"origin":2066,"position":5},"title":"Best Laid Plans (by Cheaux)","author":"Cheaux","date":"May 3, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0A rift between father and sons is healed in an unexpected way. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0 T -- WC \u00a0650","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\/bonanza16.jpg?fit=334%2C425&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2066","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=2066"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2066\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3071"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2066"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2066"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2066"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}