{"id":2087,"date":"2009-09-30T17:28:59","date_gmt":"2009-09-30T21:28:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2087"},"modified":"2026-07-24T10:03:41","modified_gmt":"2026-07-24T14:03:41","slug":"choices","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2087","title":{"rendered":"Choices (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Ben is faced with a difficult moral decision that could cost him the life of one of his sons<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> T (14,720 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Choices<\/b><\/p>\n

Ben frowned and clicked his tongue with frustration as his youngest son rode full-pelt into the yard yet again. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 he called. \u2018How many times do I have to tell you not \u2026.\u2019 \u00a0He stopped and watching in horror as Joe\u2019s horse stumbled beneath him and both rider and horse slid to the ground and landed heavily, Joe slamming into the water trough on his way down. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 yelled Ben and sprang towards him before the dust had even settled. \u00a0He lifted the unconscious boy and cradled him in his arms, looking anxiously into his face for any sign of life. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said gently, his anxiety for the boy evident in the way his voice trembled. \u2018Joe? \u00a0Can you hear me son?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 \u00a0Ben looked up to see Adam hovering anxiously behind him. \u2018Is he all right?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben tried not to let his anxiety show, for fear that if he did he wouldn\u2019t be able to control himself. \u2018Get into town and get Paul Martin Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hurry!\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018He\u2019s not there,\u2019 he reminded his father. \u2018He went to San Francisco remember?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Then get that doctor who took his place!\u2019 shouted Ben. \u2018Hurry!\u2019 \u00a0He turned to Joe in his arms again as Adam ran towards the barn. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 his father said anxiously. \u2018Wake up son \u2026 wake up!\u2019 \u00a0He began to lift the boy, but the movement cause his son to stir and call out. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Joe,\u2019 he said gently.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 face appeared beside him. \u2018Help me lift him Hoss,\u2019 instructed Ben. \u2018We need to get him inside and there\u2019s no telling what internal damage there might be. Gently now,\u2019 he warned as they both lifted the boy between them and began to carry him inside. \u2018Hop Sing!\u2019<\/p>\n

Hop Sing appeared at the sound of his name and with one look took in the seriousness of the situation and scurried back into the house again in front of them. \u00a0Ben knew that the man would be immediately getting his son\u2019s bed ready, as was indeed the case as he noted when they finally entered the bedroom after carefully navigating the staircase with the boy. \u2018Gently Hoss,\u2019 he said again as they laid Joe down on the bed where Hop Sing had thrown back the covers. He took the cloth that the cook held out to him silently and began to wipe his son\u2019s face, the movement causing Joe to whimper aloud in pain. \u2018It\u2019s all right now Joe,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Just lie still and it\u2019ll be all right.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Hurts,\u2019 whimpered Joe, his eyes shut fast and his brow creased as the pain washed over him. \u2018Hurts Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know son,\u2019 murmured Ben gently. \u2018I know.\u2019 \u00a0He continued to wipe the boy\u2019s face. \u2018Adam has gone for the doctor. It won\u2019t be long.\u2019 \u00a0He frowned as he realised just how futile his words were. They all knew that the doctor would be a few hours getting here and there wasn\u2019t much they could do in the meantime to ease Joe\u2019s pain. It was at times like this that it impacted heavily on Ben just how isolated they were out here on The Ponderosa and the thought worried him.<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 whispered Hoss over his shoulder. \u2018We could put him in the buckboard and get him inta town that way. \u00a0He\u2019d get ta the doctor quicker.<\/p>\n

Ben stared down at the boy and noted the way in which he was clutching the sides of the bed, his knuckles white as he held on. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s in too much pain. \u00a0The trip would be too rough on him. \u00a0Best to just wait it out here son.\u2019 He continued to wipe his son\u2019s face. \u2018Just try and relax Joe,\u2019 he murmured. \u2018Try and relax son.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

Ben opened the front door with a bang and rushed outside, extending his hand to the man who was getting out of a buggy in the front yard. \u2018You must be Dr Eddington,\u2019 he said. \u2018Thank you for coming straight away.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Not at all,\u2019 said the doctor. \u2018Where is the patient?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s upstairs,\u2019 replied Ben anxiously. \u2018He took a fall from his horse and \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes your son told me,\u2019 interrupted the doctor impatiently. \u2018Please just show me to him so that I can begin my examination.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben blinked, somewhat taken aback by the man\u2019s abruptness. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018This way.\u2019 \u00a0He led the doctor up the stairs and into Joe\u2019s room. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 he said to the boy lying on the bed. \u2018This is Dr Eddington. \u00a0He\u2019s come to fix you up.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe turned his head and stared at the doctor, his face still mirroring the pain that he was feeling. \u2018Where\u2019s Doc Martin?\u2019 he asked his father. \u2018Why didn\u2019t he come?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben noticed how the boy was still clutching himself around the waist as if in pain. \u2018I told you before that he\u2019s away in San Francisco remember?\u2019 he said. \u2018Doctor Eddington is filling in for him. \u00a0He\u2019ll take good care of you just like Doc Martin does.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe stared at the doctor and was silent. Daniel Eddington put down his bag on the side of the bed and sat down to look at the youngster. There was silence for a few moments as he stared at Joe and the youngster looked back at him apprehensively. There was something about the way the man was looking at him that he didn\u2019t like and for the first time that he could ever remember he found himself wishing for Doc Martin to come into the room. He wished this new doctor would stop looking at him as he was and finally he broke his gaze free of the man and looked over at his father instead.<\/p>\n

\u2018Doctor?\u2019 asked Ben from behind the man. \u2018Is there something you need before you begin?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Doctor Eddington, taking his eyes off Joe somewhat reluctantly. \u2018That is \u2026 not yet.\u2019 \u00a0He cleared his throat and looked back at Joe again. \u2018How old are you boy?\u2019 he asked abruptly, his face a bland mask.<\/p>\n

\u2018Joe is twelve,\u2019 Ben answered for him. \u2018Why?\u2019<\/p>\n

The doctor cleared his throat again and ignored the question. \u2018Now \u2026you\u2019re holding yourself around the middle as if you\u2019re in pain,\u2019 he said. \u2018Let\u2019s get that shirt off you, shall we?\u2019 He reached over and began to undo Joe\u2019s buttons but for some reason Joe found himself pulling away from the man without meaning to. \u00a0\u2018Keep still boy,\u2019 the doctor said impatiently. \u2018We have to get this shirt off if I\u2019m going to examine you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe lay still and winced as his buttons were undone and the doctor pulled back his shirt to reveal his chest and stomach area. \u2018Put your arms down,\u2019 instructed the man. Joe did as he was told, giving his father a beseeching look as he did so.<\/p>\n

Ben sat down on the other side of the bed and gave the boy an encouraging pat on the shoulder as the doctor began to prod around and under his ribcage. \u2018Ow!\u2019 yelled out Joe as the man\u2019s fingers probed deftly over several of his ribs.<\/p>\n

\u2018That hurt?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded, trying to control himself in order not to push the doctor\u2019s fingers away as he did so. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Ow! Yes.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018How about this?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes!\u2019 Joe tried to push the man\u2019s hands away in spite of himself. \u2018Don\u2019t \u2026 It hurts! \u00a0Ow!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Keep still boy,\u2019 said the doctor sternly, giving the boy another stare that made Joe squirm slightly on the bed. \u2018Stop moving.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Try to keep still son,\u2019 said his father from the other side of the bed. \u2018It won\u2019t take long now.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He has two broken ribs,\u2019 said Doctor Eddington in a matter of fact tone as he sat up straight again. \u2018I\u2019ll have to set them and then bind them up.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father. \u2018Does he have to?\u2019 he asked pleadingly.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son he does,\u2019 answered his father. \u2018Now try to hold still while the doctor does his work.\u2019 \u00a0He looked over at the man. \u2018I\u2019ll hang onto him for you,\u2019 he said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

The doctor nodded absently as if he hadn\u2019t even heard Ben, as he began to unwind several long lengths of bandages. \u2018Now,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just keep still boy and we\u2019ll get this over this quickly.\u2019 \u00a0He stared down at the frightened boy on the bed in front of him and for a moment Joe could have sworn that he saw him smile \u2026 but it was a smile that made him feel uneasy for some reason instead of allaying his fears. \u00a0He felt his father hold onto his shoulders and only had time to glance up at the man before the doctor began to pull at his sore ribs and all else was lost to his mind as he fought the pain as they were worked back into place again.<\/p>\n

\u2018There,\u2019 said Ben after several minutes. \u2018It\u2019s all over now.\u2019 \u00a0He patted his upset son on the head and hugged him tighter around the shoulders as the doctor began to wind the bandages around his ribcage. \u2018There there,\u2019 he said again. \u2018The doctor is just about done.\u2019<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington didn\u2019t speak as he finished up the bandaging and then stood up and stared for a few moments at the boy on the bed and the father comforting him. He hesitated a moment before speaking. \u2018Mr Cartwright I could do with some water and a towel please.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded as he patted Joe on the head and continued to comfort him. \u2018There\u2019s some in the jug on the dresser,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington frowned slightly. \u2018I\u2019d \u2026 that is \u2026 I\u2019d prefer warm water,\u2019 he said. \u2018Could you get me some from downstairs please?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded and then smiled at Joe before patting him on the head again. \u2018I\u2019ll be back in a few minutes son,\u2019 he said. \u2018You just lie still.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up at the doctor and then at his father. \u2018Pa \u2026\u2019 he began.<\/p>\n

Ben stood up. \u2018I\u2019ll just be a few minutes.\u2019 \u00a0He turned and left the room.<\/p>\n

The doctor sat down immediately on the bed and stared once more at Joe, making the boy squirm on the bed. \u00a0Somehow this man made him feel uneasy and he didn\u2019t know why. \u2018Now \u2026\u2019 began the doctor. \u2018I\u2019m going to check you over some more. Lie still boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Check me over where?\u2019 asked Joe apprehensively.<\/p>\n

\u2018Just lie still,\u2019 replied the doctor and reached over to undo the buttons on the boy\u2019s pants.<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t!\u2019 said Joe, pushing his hands away.<\/p>\n

\u2018Well you undo them then,\u2019 said the doctor. \u2018Hurry up \u2026 I haven\u2019t got all day.\u2019 \u00a0He watched as Joe hesitated for a moment and then began to slowly undo the buttons. \u00a0When he\u2019d finished, the man reached over and pushed his hands away and then began to palpitate his abdomen slightly. \u2018I want to make sure there\u2019s no damage inside,\u2019 he said as he continued to work. \u2018Just lie still and take some deep breaths.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe did as he was told as the man continued to feel around his abdomen. \u00a0His eyes widened as he felt his pants pulled down slightly and looked up at the man. \u00a0The doctor continued to work quietly without saying a word while Joe stared into the face above him. \u00a0He noticed the slightly glazed look that came into the man\u2019s eyes as if they were unfocused. \u00a0Suddenly he felt very uncomfortable and he reached up and pushed the doctor\u2019s hands away again. \u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t need ya to check me no more.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Keep still!\u2019 the man said sternly. He pushed Joe\u2019s hands away and began to probe lower down on the boy\u2019s body.<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t touch me there!\u2019 said Joe desperately. \u2018I told you I\u2019m fine!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You be quiet!\u2019 snarled the doctor. \u2018I\u2019m the doctor here and I\u2019ll decide when you\u2019re fine or not. Now keep still boy and do as you\u2019re told!\u2019 \u00a0He gave Joe a look that made him cringe and draw back on the bed away from the man. \u00a0He reached up and tried to push the doctor\u2019s hands away again, but the man held onto them with one hand while he continued to probe around Joe\u2019s pelvic area systematically with the other. \u00a0Joe closed his eyes as he began to feel hot all over and willed the man to stop. \u00a0He felt the fingers go even lower and squirmed under the man\u2019s touch. \u2018I told you to keep still,\u2019 said the doctor. \u2018Do as you\u2019re told!\u2019 \u00a0He leant forward and used his elbows to pin Joe onto the mattress as he probed with deft and sure movements, oblivious now to the boy as he was caught up in his own emotions.<\/p>\n

Suddenly he withdrew his hand and sat up again. He pulled Joe\u2019s pants up again and drew away from him. \u2018Everything seems to be fine,\u2019 he said as he let go of the boy and looked down at him. He pulled the covers up around him and patted him lightly on the head. \u2018There,\u2019 he said in a satisfied tone and began to pack his bag while the youngster simply lay there as still as he possibly could, willing the man to go away.<\/p>\n

\u2018Here you are doctor,\u2019 said Ben as he entered the room again, carrying a basin.<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington gave him a startled look. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018The warm water you wanted,\u2019 said Ben as he set it down on the dressed beside the bed.<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh \u2026 yes of course,\u2019 replied the doctor. \u2018Thank you.\u2019 \u00a0He reached over and began to wash his hands. \u2018I\u2019m sorry to put you to that trouble Mr Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018A peculiarity of mine, that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I see,\u2019 said Ben shortly, a bit put out \u2026 as he had assumed the water had been for his son. \u00a0He turned to Joe, surprised to see that the boy had his eyes closed. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 he said as he sat down. \u2018Are you all right?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes and looked pleadingly at his father. Before he could open his mouth however, the doctor spoke. \u2018I\u2019ve checked him all over Mr Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018There doesn\u2019t seem to be any internal damage that I can ascertain.\u2019 Joe swallowed as he looked up at the man who smiled down at him \u2026 and the uneasy feeling overcame the boy again with a rush. \u2018I\u2019m afraid your son isn\u2019t too fond of doctor\u2019s examinations,\u2019 continued Doctor Eddington.<\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m afraid he isn\u2019t. \u00a0Still \u2026 they are necessary, aren\u2019t they Joe? \u00a0Say thank you to Doctor Eddington.\u2019 Joe gave his father a stricken look and wondered if what the doctor had just done to him was simply that \u2026 a necessary examination. \u00a0Still, he just couldn\u2019t shake the uneasy feeling he had and felt a huge dislike for the man. \u00a0He was silent as he tried to make sense of his thoughts. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 said his father again. \u2018Thank the doctor.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up at the doctor and gave a slight shudder as he looked into his eyes. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 he mumbled.<\/p>\n

Ben gave the man and apologetic look. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 he said. \u2018I appreciate you coming out Doctor.\u2019<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington picked up his bag. \u2018My pleasure,\u2019 he said as he smiled at Joe again. \u2018I\u2019ll be back in a couple of days to look the boy over again.\u2019 \u00a0Joe went cold as he heard this and burrowed down further into the mattress.<\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019ll see you out.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve left some painkillers on the dresser,\u2019 Joe heard the doctor say as both men left the room. \u2018I\u2019ll give him more if he needs it when I come back.\u2019 \u00a0Joe shuddered at the man\u2019s words. \u00a0As he tried to get his thoughts together one thing kept stabbing at his brain. He never wanted that man to come back here again.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Well how are you feeling?\u2019 asked Ben as he came back into the room.<\/p>\n

\u2018It still hurts,\u2019 said Joe in a low voice.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure it does,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018Here \u2026 I\u2019ll mix one of these painkillers for you and that will help.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father as the man filled a glass with water and poured the powder into it. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018I don\u2019t want that doctor to come back here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben smiled as he stirred the mixture. \u2018Now none of your nonsense,\u2019 he said. \u2018I know you don\u2019t like doctors, but you don\u2019t have a choice when you have two broken ribs, do you?\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Here \u2026 drink this.\u2019 \u00a0Ben held the glass to his son\u2019s mouth and watched as he drank it before lowering his head to the pillow again.<\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa \u2026\u2019 Joe tried again.<\/p>\n

\u2018Just lie still now and let that do it\u2019s work,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

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

Ben sighed. \u2018What is it Joseph?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t like him,\u2019 said Joe anxiously.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyebrows lifted. \u2018Well I must admit he didn\u2019t have the bedside manner that Doc Martin has,\u2019 he said. \u2018But he certainly knows what he\u2019s doing and that\u2019s all that matters.\u2019 \u00a0He patted the boy on the head. \u2018You\u2019ll get used to him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No Pa, you don\u2019t understand,\u2019 said Joe anxiously. \u2018He \u2026 he kept touching me. \u00a0I told him to stop but he wouldn\u2019t.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph he\u2019s a doctor,\u2019 said Ben patiently. \u2018He has to touch you to check that everything is all right. \u00a0He\u2019s just doing his job, that\u2019s all.\u2019 \u00a0He stood up. \u2018Now you close your eyes and try to get some sleep,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll be back up later to check on you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe watched as his father went out of the room, his thoughts all jumbled up in his head. Was his father right? \u00a0Was the doctor just doing what he was supposed to? \u00a0As he began to feel the effects of the medication, Joe\u2019s thought became more and more confused and he slipped into unconsciousness.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Joe? Wake up son \u2026 the doctor is here to see you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe opened his eyes and blinked a couple of times, trying to focus. \u00a0He looked up and smiled at his father and then frowned as he saw Doctor Eddington looking over his shoulder. \u2018I don\u2019t need him to see me,\u2019 he muttered, gripping onto the blankets and pulling them up around him. \u2018I told you that before Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Stop your nonsense young man,\u2019 said Ben sternly. \u2018I thought I\u2019d made myself clear.\u2019 \u00a0He looked up at the doctor. \u2018I\u2019m sorry doctor,\u2019 he said. \u2018Please take no notice of him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s perfectly all right,\u2019 replied the doctor in a matter of fact tone as he put down his bag and opened it. \u2018Now let\u2019s take a look at you boy.\u2019 \u00a0He sat down and tried to pull the covers off Joe, but the youngster held onto them tightly. \u2018Let go boy,\u2019 he said in a frustrated tone. \u2018I can\u2019t check you over if you don\u2019t.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph, let the doctor look at you,\u2019 instructed his father sternly. \u2018Stop your nonsense and let go of those covers please.\u2019 \u00a0He pulled the blankets off the boy as he gave the doctor an apologetic look. \u2018I\u2019m sorry,\u2019 he said. \u2018He just doesn\u2019t like doctors too much, that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington gave Joe a hard look. \u2018Hmm,\u2019 he said. \u2018Yes. \u00a0Now lie still boy while I check those ribs of yours.\u2019 \u00a0He began to prod Joe gently around the ribcage and then nodded his head. \u2018They\u2019re doing just fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018Any pain?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Some,\u2019 muttered Joe sulkily.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll leave him some more painkillers,\u2019 the doctor said to Ben. \u2018But only use them if you have to.\u2019 He stared down at Joe again, a faint smile playing around his lips. \u2018Now I wonder if I could trouble you for \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I remembered the warm water,\u2019 interrupted Ben. \u2018It\u2019s on the dresser.\u2019<\/p>\n

The doctor looked startled. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 he said shortly. \u2018Um \u2026.\u2019 He hesitated. \u2018Actually I need my other bag and I\u2019ve stupidly left it in the buggy. I wonder if you could get it for me while I finish up here?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe tried to sit up. \u2018No Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t go!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben looked confused. \u2018Don\u2019t be silly Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll just be downstairs for a moment. Now lie still and do as you\u2019re told.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sank back on the bed, his eyes following his father anxiously. \u00a0He began to pull the blankets up around him again, but his hand was held by the doctor sitting on the edge of the bed. \u2018Not so fast,\u2019 the man said. \u2018Let\u2019s take another look at you, shall we?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Joe. \u00a0He tired to pull the blankets up again, but his hands were slapped away by the doctor.<\/p>\n

\u2018Stop that,\u2019 the man said firmly. \u2018Now just lie back and relax while I check you over.\u2019 \u00a0He pulled up the boy\u2019s nightshirt before Joe could object again and began run his fingers over his lower stomach and pelvic area. Joe tried to struggle away from the man, but his sore ribs and the fact that the doctor was holding him with one hand meant that he was unable to.<\/p>\n

\u2018Leave me alone!\u2019 he said as he struggled.<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t be stupid boy,\u2019 replied the doctor. \u2018I told you to keep still and I meant it!\u2019 \u00a0He reached over and swatted Joe on the side of the head and the youngster fell back onto the bed in shock.<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t you touch me!\u2019 Joe shouted and began to struggle even more as the man\u2019s fingers became insistent in their searching. \u00a0Joe felt the hot feeling come over him again and he swallowed several times as he tried to catch his breath to shout again. \u00a0He felt extremely vulnerable with this man and without his Pa in the room, and wanted nothing more than to be left alone by him. \u2018Leave me alone!\u2019 he yelled. \u2018Stop it!\u2019<\/p>\n

The doctor ignored the boy and continued to work his fingers rhythmically up and down on his body, his eyes glazing over and his breathing coming now in short spurts. Joe closed his eyes so as not to look at the man and began to sob quietly. \u00a0Suddenly he felt the man\u2019s touch leave him and his nightshirt pulled down around him again. \u00a0He opened his eyes tentatively to see the doctor standing over him smiling as he pulled the blankets up around the boy.<\/p>\n

\u2018What was all that yelling about?\u2019 asked Ben as he came back into the room. \u2018Joseph? \u00a0Is something the matter son?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe tried to sit up, but his sore ribs prevented him from doing so. \u2018Tell him to get outta here,\u2019 he said, pointing at the doctor accusingly. \u2018I don\u2019t want him coming in here no more Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington shook his head at Ben. \u2018Your son objects to me examining him,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t see how I\u2019m supposed to help the boy if he causes this much fuss every time I try to find out if he\u2019s all right. Really Mr Cartwright \u2026 I can\u2019t help the boy if this is going to happen each time I try to examine him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019 said Ben angrily. \u2018Now I\u2019ve told you before that the doctor is trying to help you. \u00a0Stop your nonsense and let him do his job without all that fuss please!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe began to sob quietly. \u2018But I don\u2019t want him touching me Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben sat on the edge of the bed while the doctor began to wash his hands. \u2018Son Doctor Eddington is only trying to help you,\u2019 he explained patiently. \u2018He has to examine you to make sure that you\u2019re all right. That\u2019s what doctors do. \u00a0Now stop all this fussing and do as you\u2019re told please.\u2019 \u00a0He patted his son on the head gently.<\/p>\n

\u2018When\u2019s Doc Martin coming back?\u2019 asked Joe in between sobs. \u2018I want him as my doctor, not him!\u2019 he pointed accusingly at the man standing behind his father.<\/p>\n

Ben sighed and stood up to face the doctor. \u2018I\u2019m sorry,\u2019 he said. \u2018I promise this won\u2019t happen again.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I hope not,\u2019 said the doctor firmly as he shut his bag. \u2018It makes my job very difficult you know.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019ll have a talk with him I promise.\u2019<\/p>\n

The doctor stared down at Joe and a faint smile played around his lips. \u2018I\u2019ll be back in a few days,\u2019 he said as he looked at Joe. \u2018I hope you\u2019re better behaved by then boy.\u2019 \u00a0Joe said nothing, but simply glared at the man as he pulled the covers up around his chin defensively. \u00a0\u2018I\u2019m sorry Mr Cartwright, but it seems that my thermometer was in this bag after all. \u00a0You really didn\u2019t need to worry about going down for the other one.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s all right,\u2019 replied Ben and gave Joe a stern look as he followed the doctor out of the room again. \u2018I\u2019m sorry doctor,\u2019 Joe heard his father say as they walked down the stairs together. \u2018I really don\u2019t know what gets into that boy sometimes.\u2019 \u00a0He closed his eyes firmly and pulled the covers up over his head.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Why\u2019s he so agin this new doctor?\u2019 asked Hoss at supper that night.<\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t know,\u2019 sighed Ben. \u2018You know what your brother is like though. \u00a0He just doesn\u2019t like being sick and doctors are not exactly his favourite people.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam gave a short chuckle. \u2018Remember when he bit Paul Martin that time?\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll bet that was the first time Paul was ever bitten by a patient.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He were only four then,\u2019 objected Hoss. \u2018He was frightened and he didn\u2019t understand.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well like it or not, Joseph has to learn that there are some things in life we all have to put up with,\u2019 said Ben firmly. \u2018Nobody likes being hurt or sick, but doctors visits are just something that are a part of life.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Still \u2026\u2019 mused Adam. \u2018He seems very determined not to like this one. \u00a0You must admit that Doctor Eddington isn\u2019t the most likeable of men Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll admit that,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018He strikes me as very abrupt to be honest and I\u2019m not surprised that Joe doesn\u2019t like him. \u00a0Still, while Paul is away there isn\u2019t much choice is there? Joseph will just have to put up with it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Mr Cartwright I think it would be better if you left the room,\u2019 said the doctor firmly as he glared down at Joe. \u2018Perhaps your son would be better behaved if you did.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe clutched hold of his father\u2019s sleeve with one hand as he clung to the bedcovers with the other. \u2018No! \u00a0I\u2019ll be good Pa \u2026 but please stay. \u00a0Don\u2019t go!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018All right,\u2019 said Ben firmly. \u2018But you behave yourself or I will young man. \u00a0Now pull back those covers.\u2019 \u00a0He firmly took hold of the bedcovers and pulled them back from his son\u2019s body. \u2018There you go Doctor,\u2019 he said. \u2018Joe will behave himself now.\u2019 \u00a0He gave Joe another firm look.<\/p>\n

The doctor hesitated for a moment and then bent down to check Joe\u2019s ribs. \u2018They\u2019re fine,\u2019 he said shortly. \u2018Now I really do think it would be better if you left Mr Cartwright.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Joseph knows not to misbehave now, don\u2019t you Joseph?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Little Joe, feeling much more secure now that he knew his father wasn\u2019t going anywhere.<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington shot Ben a frustrated look and then felt Joe\u2019s stomach for a brief moment, hardly touching the boy. \u2018He\u2019s fine,\u2019 he said tersely as he stood up. \u2018He can get out of bed in a day or two.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sighed with relief and smiled at his father. \u2018Did ya hear that Pa?\u2019 he said. \u2018I can get out of bed soon!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Are you sure doctor?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said the man shutting his bag with a snap and scowling. \u2018There\u2019s no point in me coming out here anymore. Bring him into see me in a few days and I\u2019ll take the bandages off.\u2019 \u00a0He glared at Ben. \u2018You can pay the bill then,\u2019 he said abruptly and left the room.<\/p>\n

Ben stared after him, puzzled as to why the sudden need to finish so quickly with his patient. \u2018Well there you are,\u2019 he said to Joe as he turned back to the boy. \u2018I told you it wouldn\u2019t so bad, didn\u2019t I?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Joe happily. \u2018I don\u2019t haveta see him again, do I Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Only to get the bandages off,\u2019 said his father as he ruffled his hair. \u2018It sounds as if we can do that in a few days and then you\u2019ll be all finished with doctors.\u2019 \u00a0He tried to look stern. \u2018Until the next time you decide to disobey my orders and hurt yourself young man,\u2019 he said. \u2018Which reminds me \u2026 now that you\u2019re getting better I think we need to have another talk about the correct way to ride.\u2019 \u00a0Joe sighed and burrowed down into the bed again, pulling the covers up around his chin as he looked up at his father mournfully.<\/p>\n

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

Joe and I shouldn\u2019t take too long at the doctor\u2019s,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Tell Sam I\u2019ll settle our account when I get back please boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018OK Pa,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018Let\u2019s get those supplies loaded Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa can\u2019t we just take the bandages off ourselves?\u2019 asked Joe as his father led him down the street. \u2018Why does the doctor haveta do it?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He needs to check one last time that your ribs have set properly,\u2019 replied his father.<\/p>\n

\u2018But they feel fine now,\u2019 objected Joe. \u2018Honest they do! I still do see why we just can\u2019t take off the bandages without him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph I\u2019m getting tired of this,\u2019 sighed Ben. \u2018The doctor will do it and that\u2019s all there is to it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll stay with me while he does, won\u2019t you Pa?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018Of course I will,\u2019 his father assured him. \u2018But it won\u2019t hurt son. \u00a0He\u2019s just going to take the bandages off, that\u2019s all.\u2019 \u00a0He smiled down at the boy. \u2018There\u2019s nothing to worry about.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe tried to return the smile, but didn\u2019t quite succeed. \u00a0Instead he gave his father a watered down version of his usual grin as he apprehensively approached the doctor\u2019s office. \u00a0How he wished that it were Doctor Martin they were going to see and not Doctor Eddington.<\/p>\n

As they entered the doctor\u2019s office the man in question looked up from his desk and gave Ben an annoyed look, before looking Joe up and down in a way that made the boy take a step towards his father\u2019s side. \u2018Yes?\u2019 Doctor Eddington said abruptly.<\/p>\n

\u2018You said to bring Joe in so that you could take the bandages off,\u2019 replied Ben.<\/p>\n

The doctor nodded and then stared at Joe again. \u2018Oh yes,\u2019 he said in a milder tone. \u2018Of course Mr Cartwright.\u2019 \u00a0He stood up and walked over towards them, standing next to Joe and putting a hand on his shoulder. \u2018I\u2019ll take the boy into the examining room and see to it immediately.<\/p>\n

Joe shook off the man\u2019s touch and took another step closer to his father, looking up at the man pleadingly. \u2018That would be fine,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019ll come in with you.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018There\u2019s no need for that,\u2019 replied the doctor, touching Joe on the shoulder again and tightening his grip on the boy. \u2018You must have something to do in town Mr Cartwright. I\u2019ll look after the boy for you and you can come back later.\u2019 \u00a0He gave Joe one of the smiles that made the boy cringe inside and he looked at his father again.<\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Ben firmly. \u2018I\u2019ll be coming in with you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington scowled at the man. \u2018Very well,\u2019 he snarled as he let go of Joe. \u2018If you insist. In here boy,\u2019 he said abruptly. \u2018Hurry up.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe took a deep breath and smiled at his father before following the doctor. When they were all in the examining room Doctor Eddington motioned towards the examining table and said, \u2018Get up there and take your shirt off.\u2019 Ben gave Joe a slight push forward and Joe climbed up onto the table. \u2018Lay down,\u2019 said the doctor. Joe did as he was told, watching his father all the time. The doctor began to undo his shirt buttons and then the bandages. \u2018Is it gonna hurt?\u2019 asked Joe tentatively.<\/p>\n

\u2018What?\u2019 asked the man absently as he felt the boy\u2019s ribs.<\/p>\n

\u2018Is it gonna hurt?\u2019 asked Joe again.<\/p>\n

\u2018No.\u2019<\/p>\n

At that moment there was a loud noise outside and all of them turned towards the door. \u2018What was that?\u2019 asked Ben. \u00a0The noise came again and he opened the door that led to the outer office. \u00a0\u2018It\u2019s all right,\u2019 he said with a smile. \u2018It\u2019s just Sam Felton up to his usual tricks. \u00a0Looks like he\u2019s had a few too many.\u2019 \u00a0Joe made to sit up, but the doctor pushed him back onto the table again. \u2018Sam,\u2019 they heard Ben say. \u2018Just settle down will you. \u00a0What\u2019s the problem?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Need ta see the doctor,\u2019 said the man in the outer office. \u2018Gotta \u2026 gotta \u2026. Headache something bad Mr Cartwright.\u2019 \u00a0He began to sing softly under his breath. \u2018Need ta see the doctor.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben gave a short chuckle. \u2018Kinda early in the morning for you to be in this condition isn\u2019t it Sam?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018What kinda condition?\u2019 asked the man as he leant against the door. \u2018I ain\u2019t in any kinda condition. Where\u2019s that doctor?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Quit your yelling,\u2019 said Doctor Eddington angrily. \u2018I\u2019m with a patient. \u00a0Keep him quiet will you please Mr Cartwright?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben took a step into the other room. \u2018Now just settle down Sam,\u2019 he said gently. \u2018How about sitting down over here until the doctor is ready to see you?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 called out Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s all right Joe,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019m just here. \u00a0Sam sit down.\u2019<\/p>\n

The doctor turned back to the boy on the table and smiled at him. \u2018Pa!\u2019 called Joe again as he stared up at the man. \u2018I want you back here!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Just a minute Joe,\u2019 called his father. \u2018Sam \u2026 over here. Come on, that\u2019s it. Sit down now.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe cringed away from the doctor as he stared down at the boy. \u2018Mr Cartwright please keep hold of him,\u2019 the man called out. \u2018I\u2019ll be finished here in a minute.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa!\u2019 called out Joe again as the doctor began to undo his pants. \u2018Pa come back!\u2019<\/p>\n

There was the sound of scuffling outside and both men could be heard speaking to each other, Ben in a soothing tone and Sam in a loud voice. \u00a0The doctor smiled again at Joe and his eyes widened as he fumbled with the buttons on the boy\u2019s pants and held onto his hands as Joe tried to stop him. He leant down over the boy and whispered into his ear. \u2018Keep still boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Joe desperately. \u2018Leave me alone!\u2019 \u00a0The voices in the outer office became louder. \u2018Don\u2019t!\u2019 shouted Joe, trying to raise his own voice over the top of them. \u2018Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He can\u2019t hear you boy,\u2019 said the doctor as his fingers began to probe the boy\u2019s body. \u2018Just be quiet and stop all this fussing.\u2019 \u00a0Doctor Eddington\u2019s eyes became glazed as Joe fought desperately to free his hands and get away from the man. \u00a0He tried to kick out at him with his feet, but the doctor bent forward and held them down with his own body as he continued to work with his fingers.<\/p>\n

Suddenly, Joe felt the weight of the man leave him and he stared up into the angry black eyes of his father. \u2018What the hell do you think you\u2019re doing!\u2019 shouted Ben at the doctor. \u2018Get away from my son!\u2019<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington took a step back and blinked a couple of times as he tried to gather his thoughts. \u2018What?\u2019 he said vaguely.<\/p>\n

Ben took a step closer to the man. \u2018Get away from him!\u2019 he shouted and pushed the doctor backwards.<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington visibly shook himself and straightened. \u2018Mr Cartwright you have this all wrong,\u2019 he began. \u2018I was merely \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know exactly what you were doing!\u2019 shouted Ben. \u00a0He drew back his fist and hit the man in the square in the stomach, causing him to fall backwards and land on the floor with a thump. \u00a0Ben stood over him, his fists clenched and his eyes flashing.<\/p>\n

The doctor looked up at him. \u2018I was only examining the boy,\u2019 he said. \u2018You have it all wrong Mr Cartwright.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben turned his back on the man in disgust and walked back to where Joe was still lying on the table, staring at them both. \u00a0Without saying a word he pulled the boy\u2019s pants up, did up his shirt and picked him up from the table. With one last look at the doctor on the floor he walked outside with Joe in his arms.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Boys?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam looked up to see Roy Coffee standing in front of them with his hands on his hips. \u2018Hi Roy,\u2019 he said. \u2018How are you?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m fine thanks Adam.\u2019 \u00a0Roy hesitated for a moment before going on. \u2018Your Pa sent me to get you both. \u00a0He\u2019s over at the jail.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss came to stand next to his brother. \u2018The jail?\u2019 he said with a chuckle. \u2018You ain\u2019t arrested him have ya Sheriff?\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy didn\u2019t return the smile that the two young men gave him. \u2018No,\u2019 he said tersely. \u2018You\u2019d better come with me though boys. Your Pa wants to talk with you both.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018We\u2019ll be there in a few minutes Roy,\u2019 said Adam as he picked up another sack of grain. \u2018We\u2019ll just finish loading these first.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I think you\u2019d better come now,\u2019 replied the sheriff. \u2018Leave that until later.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam put down the sack and stared at the man. \u2018Is something wrong?\u2019 he asked. \u2018What\u2019s happened?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Your Pa had better tell you,\u2019 replied the sheriff. \u2018Come on boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam gave Hoss a worried look and motioned for him to follow. \u00a0Together the two brothers followed the sheriff down the street and into his office. \u2018Where\u2019s Pa?\u2019 asked Hoss as he shut the door behind him.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m here son,\u2019 said his father as he came into the room.<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa what\u2019s wrong?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018What\u2019s happened?\u2019 \u00a0He looked around. \u2018Where\u2019s Joe? \u00a0Has something happened to him?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben motioned for both of his sons to sit down. \u2018In a way,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s inside. \u00a0Roy was kind enough to let me lay him on a bunk in one of the cells.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s happened ta shortshanks?\u2019 asked Hoss with a worried look on his face. \u2018I wanna see him!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018In a few minutes Hoss,\u2019 said Ben quietly. \u2018I need to talk to you both first though.\u2019 \u00a0He paused. \u00a0\u2018I\u2019m afraid that your little brother has had a \u2026\u2019 he glanced at Roy before continuing. \u2018 \u2026 a difficult time with the doctor. It seems that the man has been \u2026 taking advantage of Little Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss frowned. \u2018Takin advantage?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben coughed. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018It appears that when he was examining Joe he was .. well \u2026 touching him.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam scowled. \u2018I\u2019ll kill him!\u2019 he said vehemently.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked confused. \u2018I don\u2019t get it Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t doctors have ta touch their patients? \u00a0I mean \u2026 how else could he find out what was wrong with Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben hesitated before replying. \u2018Son I don\u2019t mean touching in the way a doctor usually examines his patients. \u00a0He was touching him in places he shouldn\u2019t. \u00a0He was \u2026 well I suppose you could say that he was abusing the boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss took a step backwards, his face a mirror image of Adam\u2019s and he touched his gun involuntarily as he stared at his father. \u2018We need ta get down ta his office and get him Pa!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018He ain\u2019t gonna get away with this!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I agree,\u2019 said Adam, breathing heavily as he stood beside his brother. \u2018No one should \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Now you two just hang on there,\u2019 said Ben, putting his hand up in a warning gesture. \u2018The most important thing right now is your little brother. \u00a0You two are not going off half-cocked and doing something to make matters even worse around here.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah but Pa,\u2019 began Hoss. \u2018He shouldn\u2019t be doing that sorta thing ta people! \u00a0Joe \u2026\u2019 he swallowed and stopped for a moment. \u2018Joe\u2019s just a kid and it ain\u2019t right!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It isn\u2019t right no matter how old your brother is,\u2019 said Ben firmly. \u2018That man took advantage of a helpless child and he\u2019ll pay for it son, believe me. \u00a0But right now I\u2019m more concerned about your brother.\u2019 \u00a0His eyes darted across to the door that led to the cells.<\/p>\n

\u2018How is he?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t know if he really realises the full extent of what went on to tell you the truth. I need to talk to him to find out exactly what\u2019s in that head of his.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I wanna see him,\u2019 said Hoss, taking a step forward.<\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said his father firmly. \u2018You two stay out here while I\u2019m in there talking with him. \u00a0I think we need to take this slowly at first and all of us in there at once might be too much for him. \u00a0Please wait here for me.\u2019 \u00a0He fixed both of them with a hard stare. \u2018And I mean here,\u2019 he said. \u2018Roy?\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy Coffee nodded his head and glanced towards the door. \u00a0Ben knew with certainty that his friend wouldn\u2019t let either young man out of the room and the thought comforted him. \u00a0Until he had time to get his own thoughts together about all this he needed his sons to just stay calm and not do anything rash and he knew that with Roy around there would be no risk of that happening. \u00a0He turned towards the cells again with a heavy heart. \u00a0Joe hadn\u2019t said a word when he\u2019d carried him over here and laid him on one of the bunks and he really didn\u2019t know what the boy was thinking. Well, he thought grimly, I\u2019m about to find out.<\/p>\n

As he entered the room, he noticed his youngest son still lying on the bed staring at the ceiling with his arms wrapped tightly around his middle. \u2018Ribs still sore?\u2019 he asked as he sat down.<\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father and shook his head. \u2018No, not really,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben reached out and stroked the child\u2019s hair. \u2018Joseph we need to talk,\u2019 he said. \u2018Son I\u2019m so sorry I left you in there alone with that man.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t like him Pa,\u2019 replied Little Joe. \u2018I told ya that.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son I know you did,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I just didn\u2019t understand why \u2026 now I do.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I told you that he was touching me,\u2019 continued Little Joe.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s heart constricted as he remembered how many times he\u2019d told the boy not to be silly about it. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018I just didn\u2019t realise how he was touching you Joe.\u2019 Father and son looked at each other for a moment before he went on. \u2018Joseph, what that doctor did was wrong. \u00a0Do you understand that?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded slowly. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018It didn\u2019t feel right ta me Pa, but I thought that maybe he was supposed ta do that to examine me.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben mouth pursed. \u2018Is that what he told you?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah. \u00a0He said that he just needed to make sure that I was all right \u2026 you know \u2026 inside,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018But I wasn\u2019t hurt \u2026 there \u2026 and he still kept doing it even after I told him to stop.\u2019 \u00a0He looked up at his father trustingly. \u2018I thought it was wrong the first time he done it.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s heart constricted even more. \u2018The \u2026 the first time?\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Just how many times did this happen Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Every time he came to see me,\u2019 said Little Joe. \u2018Cept that time when you wouldn\u2019t leave the room.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I see.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe clutched at his father\u2019s sleeve. \u2018I don\u2019t wanna see him again,\u2019 he said urgently. \u2018Please don\u2019t let him touch me again Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben gathered the boy into his arms. \u2018Don\u2019t you worry Joseph,\u2019 he said over the top of the curly head as he hugged him. \u2018That man will never come near you again, I promise you. \u00a0You can count on that.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Ben are you sure about this?\u2019 asked Roy Coffee. \u2018I mean \u2026\u2019 he waved his arm in the direction of the cells where Hoss and Joe were sitting talking. \u2018The boy and all \u2026 everyone will know if you go through with this.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018It has to be Roy,\u2019 he said. \u2018I can\u2019t let this man get away with what he\u2019s done. \u00a0If people are going to gossip about all of this, then it just can\u2019t be helped.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa,\u2019 interrupted Adam. \u2018What about Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. \u2018He\u2019ll be all right,\u2019 he said. \u2018Whatever happens, we\u2019ll help him through it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Ben if you have Eddington charged, then this will come to court,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018I just want you to think about what that youngster will have to go through if he\u2019s called to testify. At his age \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 interrupted Ben. \u00a0He ran his hand over his eyes. \u2018But Roy \u2026 well \u2026 hard as it might be, there are some things that we just have to do in life. \u00a0I just can\u2019t let him get away with it. Maybe Joe won\u2019t need to be involved in any hearing that takes place.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Well that\u2019ll be for some judge to decide,\u2019 he said. \u2018If you\u2019re sure then Ben \u2026 I\u2019ll go and arrest Eddington now. \u00a0He\u2019ll be locked up within the hour I promise you that.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben stood up. \u2018I\u2019ll be taking Joe home then,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t want him coming into contact with that man in any way. \u00a0Thank you Roy. \u00a0I\u2019ll be in to see Hiram Wood in the morning and get his advice about where to proceed from here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy nodded. \u2018Hiram\u2019s the best lawyer we\u2019ve got around these parts,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019ll know what to do Ben. \u00a0You take that boy home now and take it easy, you hear?\u2019 \u00a0He checked his gun before leaving the room.<\/p>\n

\u2018Come on son,\u2019 said Ben as he put his arm around Adam\u2019s shoulders. \u2018It\u2019s time we all went home.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

Hiram Wood took a deep breath as Ben finished relating the story to him. \u2018I see,\u2019 he said thoughtfully as he stroked his chin.<\/p>\n

\u2018So I came to you for advice Hiram,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018What happens now?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018If you proceed with the charges then it will come to court,\u2019 said Hiram. \u2018That is unless Eddington simply pleads guilty.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018He\u2019s not doing that,\u2019 he said. \u2018I called in to Roy Coffee\u2019s office this morning before I came here and he\u2019s maintaining that he was simply examining Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well then it\u2019ll be your word against his,\u2019 said Hiram. \u2018Unless you allow the boy to testify.\u2019 Ben said nothing and Hiram sat forward in his chair. \u2018Ben, I won\u2019t lie to you. \u00a0Unless that boy testifies then we really don\u2019t have any chance of winning this. \u00a0Eddington can simply plead that you are lying or misunderstood and that he was acting professionally as a doctor.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben swallowed. \u2018I was hoping that Joseph wouldn\u2019t have to be involved,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Hiram shrugged. \u2018It\u2019s up to you whether or not he is,\u2019 he said. \u2018But without his testimony I can practically guarantee that the charge won\u2019t stick.\u2019 \u00a0He hesitated. \u2018Ben, there\u2019s something else you must be aware of as well.\u2019 \u00a0Ben looked at the man questioningly. \u2018No matter how this goes, once it becomes public knowledge that boy has to live with the implications of this,\u2019 the lawyer continued. \u2018In a town this size the outcome of that could be very difficult for him. \u00a0Do you really want that?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 said Ben miserably. \u2018It\u2019s just \u2026 well \u2026 how can I let Eddington get away with this Hiram? \u00a0Everything in me says that I have to stop him doing this again to someone else\u2019s child \u2026 but \u2026\u2019 he wiped his hand over his eyes wearily. \u2018I just don\u2019t know what to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You need time to think about it,\u2019 said Hiram. \u2018As far as I know, no one else is aware of what\u2019s been going on yet. \u00a0There\u2019s plenty of speculation about why Eddington\u2019s in jail of course, but no one has linked that fact with you or your family. Let\u2019s hope that it stays like that until this comes to trial \u2026. if it does.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said as he stood up. \u2018I\u2019ll let you know what I decide Hiram,\u2019 he said. \u2018Thank you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hiram nodded and smiled at the man. \u2018You think on it Ben,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019ve got a couple of days until the circuit judge arrives and it won\u2019t be too late to change your mind even then.\u2019 Ben nodded and left the room, his head full of all the possibilities and choices in front of him.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Joseph?\u2019 Ben turned up the lamp beside his son\u2019s bed and sat down next to him, looking at him anxiously. \u2018Are you all right son?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father, his eyes wide and his breathing shallow. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben leant forward and patted the boy on the head. \u2018I heard you call out,\u2019 he said gently. \u2018What\u2019s the matter?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed before replying. \u2018I just had a bad dream that\u2019s all,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben waited and then said, \u2018About Doctor Eddington?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018I dreamt that he was here again.\u2019 \u00a0He looked around his room as if the doctor might indeed step out from the shadows. \u2018I was \u2026\u2019 he looked at his father fearfully. \u2018I was here in bed and he \u2026 he was here. \u00a0I couldn\u2019t move away from him. \u00a0He was \u2026 you know \u2026\u2019 \u00a0his voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

Ben patted the boy on the head again. \u2018Joe he will never be here again,\u2019 he assured the boy. \u2018He will never do anything to you again \u2026 I told you that son.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know.\u2019 \u00a0Joe clutched hold of the blankets tightly. \u2018But \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018But \u2026 well \u2026 its just kinda hard to forget you know,\u2019 Joe continued. \u2018I just feel \u2026 sometimes I can still feel him \u2026.\u2019 His voice trailed away again and he looked up at his father for understanding.<\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 Ben said gently. \u2018All I can say to you though is that those feelings will fade in time son. \u00a0You just try and get some sleep now. \u00a0Do you want me to stay here for a while?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded at his father gratefully and closed his eyes again. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said after a few minutes.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Doctor Eddington \u2026 where is he now?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s in jail son.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes shot open again. \u2018Because of what he did to me?\u2019<\/p>\n

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

The boy nodded his head slightly. \u2018I\u2019m glad,\u2019 he admitted. There was silence for a few moments. \u2018Will he stay in there for a long time?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. \u2018That\u2019s all being decided now,\u2019 he said. \u2018But one thing\u2019s for sure Joseph, I promise that you won\u2019t ever have to worry about that man again. \u00a0I\u2019ll see to it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks Pa,\u2019 said Joe sleepily as he closed his eyes again. Ben gave a small sigh as he watched his sleeping son. He hoped with all his heart that he could keep his promise to the boy. \u00a0His heart was heavy with the burden about the choice that he had to make. \u00a0One the one hand he wanted nothing more than to have Eddington locked away in prison for what he\u2019d done to his son, but on the other he really didn\u2019t want to involve Joe in the process of putting the man there. \u00a0Yet how could he achieve one without the other? \u00a0From what he\u2019d seen tonight he knew that the experience was still with Joseph and what the boy needed more than anything was to get back to his life and put all of this behind him, not become involved in a court trial. \u00a0Ben put his hand over his eyes for a moment. What was he to do?<\/p>\n

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

Adam looked at the steam rising from the cup of coffee in his hand as he walked across the front porch and leant against one of the posts. \u00a0He stared across at his father as he took a sip, then glanced over to where Hoss and Little Joe were busy doing their early morning chores. \u00a0He knew that his father was very worried about his youngest son and how he was taking what had happened to him, but looking at the boy chattering away to his brother as they worked, Adam was sure that his brother would eventually come through all this and be fine.<\/p>\n

He stepped off the edge of the porch and approached his father where he was standing near the corral. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben turned. \u2018Yes son?\u2019<\/p>\n

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

Ben smiled at his eldest son, amazed as always about how this boy of his was always so perceptive when it came to his feelings. \u2018I was just thinking about things,\u2019 he said as he went back to leaning against the fence of the corral.<\/p>\n

\u2018About Joe?\u2019 \u00a0Adam indicated towards his brother with his cup.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u2019 \u00a0Ben stared at the boy doing his chores. \u2018He seems to be getting over this.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Just what I was thinking,\u2019 said Adam as he took another sip of his coffee. \u2018But you\u2019re still worried aren\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes. \u00a0The problem is that I just don\u2019t know what to do Adam. \u00a0Part of me wants to have Eddington locked away for a long time, but according to Hiram Wood it won\u2019t happen without Joe being involved in the trial. \u00a0I don\u2019t want to put him through that.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam made a face. \u2018It\u2019s a hard one isn\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u2019 \u00a0Ben was silent for a few minutes. \u2018I just don\u2019t know what to do Adam. \u00a0I don\u2019t know what to decide.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Why don\u2019t you let Joe decide then?\u2019 asked Adam. \u00a0He smiled as his father turned to face him and then continued. \u2018I mean \u2026 shouldn\u2019t he be the one to decide whether or not he wants to be involved in this?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s only twelve Adam. \u00a0I think that\u2019s too much of a burden to put on him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa, sometimes you don\u2019t give that boy credit for knowing his own mind,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Joe\u2019s a tough kid when he wants to be.\u2019 Ben said nothing. \u2018You said yourself that he\u2019d have us to support him,\u2019 continued Adam. \u2018And if he doesn\u2019t want to go ahead with it then \u2026 well then you just don\u2019t. \u00a0I think he deserves the chance to make that choice for himself though, don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben patted his son on the shoulder. \u2018You might be right son,\u2019 he said. He glanced over to Joe again. \u2018I just worry that\u2019s all. \u00a0He\u2019s been through enough without all of this as well.\u2019 \u00a0He straightened up and smiled at Adam. \u2018Thank you Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018I think you might be right. \u00a0After all, Joseph is the only one who really knows how he feels about all of this and how much he thinks he\u2019ll be able to cope with. I\u2019ll talk to him.\u2019 \u00a0He turned towards the barn. \u2018Joe!\u2019 he called. \u2018Over here son.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe put down the rake in his hand and walked over to his father and brother. \u2018Yeah Pa?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Ben put his arm around the boy. \u2018Come over here and sit down Joe. \u00a0I want to talk to you.\u2019 \u00a0He smiled at Adam as he steered Joe away from him and sat his son down on the edge of the porch before sitting next to him. \u2018We need to talk Joseph,\u2019 he said when they were settled.<\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father fearfully. \u2018Is something the matter?\u2019 \u00a0he asked. \u2018Did I do something wrong?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No you didn\u2019t do anything wrong,\u2019 Ben assured him with a smile. \u2018We just need to talk about \u2026 well about everything that\u2019s happened that\u2019s all.\u2019 \u00a0Joe waited while his father continued. \u2018Joseph last night I told you that Doctor Eddington is in jail, didn\u2019t I?\u2019 \u00a0Joe nodded. \u2018Well he can\u2019t stay there indefinitely son.\u2019 He watched as an anxious look came over his son\u2019s face and he patted him on the arm.<\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018You said that he wouldn\u2019t come and bother me again. \u00a0Why can\u2019t he stay there?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s the way the law works son,\u2019 explained Ben. \u2018If we want him to stay in jail then he has to be charged for what he did to you.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Then can\u2019t he be?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes of course he can,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018At the moment he can be kept in jail until a judge decides otherwise. \u00a0There is a judge coming to town in a couple of days and he can make that decision.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Good.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018But \u2026 well, if we ask him to make that decision then we have to tell him what happened,\u2019 continued Ben, watching his son\u2019s face carefully.<\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018OK,\u2019 he said. \u2018If you tell him, then will he send him to jail for a long time?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s the judge\u2019s decision Joe,\u2019 said his father. \u2018He needs to know the facts and then he\u2019ll make up his mind. There are no guarantees that he won\u2019t believe Doctor Eddington when the doctor says that he was just examining you when he did what he did to you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe jerked. \u2018But he wasn\u2019t Pa!\u2019 he protested. \u2018You said so! \u00a0You saw what he was doing and you said that it weren\u2019t right!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know Joseph,\u2019 said Ben, stroking the boy\u2019s arm as he felt the tension rise within him. \u2018And I meant what I said. \u00a0But the judge didn\u2019t see it happen and he has to hear both sides of the story before he decides what to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018I see,\u2019 he said. \u2018Are you gonna tell him then Pa?\u2019 he asked. \u2018If you do then he\u2019ll believe you, won\u2019t he?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I hope so son,\u2019 continued Ben. \u2018But you see it will be my word against Doctor Eddington\u2019s.\u2019 \u00a0He stopped and watched Joe carefully as he continued. \u2018If you told him as well then he might be more inclined to believe us.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father. \u2018Me?\u2019 he said. \u2018But \u2026 but I don\u2019t wanna talk to anyone about it. \u00a0Can\u2019t you just do it for me Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u00a0\u2018Yes I can,\u2019 he said. \u2018But Mr Wood our lawyer thinks that the judge might only believe us if we both say it. \u00a0He said that without your testimony in court then Doctor Eddington might go free.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe gasped. \u2018But he can\u2019t Pa!\u2019 he protested. \u2018Sheriff Coffee can\u2019t let him outta jail again can he? \u00a0He might come and look for me and \u2026 and do it to me again!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben continued to stroke the boy\u2019s arm. \u2018Joseph I told you that he\u2019ll never come near you again and I meant that,\u2019 he said. \u2018No matter what happens I won\u2019t let him come near you again son. \u00a0If he goes free then it won\u2019t make any difference to that.\u2019 \u00a0He smiled as Joe visibly relaxed at his words. \u2018If you don\u2019t want to testify Joseph then you don\u2019t have to,\u2019 he assured the boy. \u2018Doctor Eddington will just go away and that will be an end to it.\u2019 \u00a0He paused again. \u2018It\u2019s your choice son. \u00a0Whatever you want to do is fine with me.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What would I have to do?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018About testifying I mean?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019d have to go into the court room and answer questions about what happened,\u2019 explained his father. \u2018\u2019Mr Wood would ask you to say what happened and then ask you questions about it. \u00a0Doctor Eddington would have a lawyer and he\u2019d ask you about it too.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked worried. \u2018What would they ask?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 said his father. \u2018We would talk to Mr Wood about that and he\u2019d practise it all for you.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Who would be there?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not sure son,\u2019 said Ben honestly. \u2018I imagine a lot of people might be.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Would I have to tell it in front of everyone?\u2019 asked Joe, biting his lip.<\/p>\n

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

There was silence. \u2018I don\u2019t want to,\u2019 said Joe in a quiet voice after a few minutes.<\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s all right son,\u2019 said his father. \u2018I told you that you didn\u2019t have to and I meant it.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018That\u2019s not what I mean,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t want to Pa,\u2019 he continued. \u2018But I think that I should. \u00a0If I don\u2019t and Doctor Eddington goes free, then he \u2026 he could do the same thing to another boy, couldn\u2019t he?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s heart constricted. \u2018Yes son, I suppose he could.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018I don\u2019t think he should be able to do that,\u2019 he said. \u2018I wouldn\u2019t like him to be able to do what he did to me to someone else.\u2019 \u00a0He took a deep breath. \u2018I\u2019ll do it,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes misted over at his son\u2019s words and he found it hard to speak through his emotions. \u2018Joseph I\u2019m very proud of you,\u2019 he said as he put his arm around his son. \u2018Prouder than I\u2019ve ever been right at this moment.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe gave his father a puzzled look. \u2018But you always say that we should do the right thing,\u2019 he said. \u2018And this is the right thing, ain\u2019t it Pa?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Ben smiled at his son and hugged him even tighter. \u2018Yes son I suppose it is,\u2019 he said. \u2018I suppose it is.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018That\u2019s one brave boy you have Ben,\u2019 said Hiram Wood as he nodded his head thoughtfully. \u2018One brave boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded in agreement. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m very proud of him Hiram. Well, what now?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Judge Wilcox should arrive the day after tomorrow,\u2019 replied the lawyer. \u2018I\u2019ll see him then and put forward your charge. \u00a0With any luck this should all be over within the week. I\u2019ll need to meet with yourself and Joseph a few times in order to get your testimonies practised.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hiram I\u2019d like this to be as easy on the boy as possible, I\u2019m sure you understand that.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Of course,\u2019 replied Hiram. \u2018But you know that I can\u2019t guarantee what Eddington\u2019s lawyer will throw at him. \u00a0I\u2019ll let Judge Wilcox know of your concerns and I\u2019ll mention Joseph\u2019s age. \u00a0He may take that into account and do what he can.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Is there anything he can do?\u2019 asked Ben eagerly.<\/p>\n

Hiram shook his head. \u2018No, not really,\u2019 he said. \u2018All we can hope for is that he keeps a close check on the proceedings and doesn\u2019t let Eddington\u2019s lawyer make it too difficult for Joe, that\u2019s all. \u00a0Ben, you do realise that as soon as the trial is scheduled then everyone will know what it\u2019s all about. \u00a0Perhaps you should prepare the boy for what the reactions of the townsfolk might be.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll keep him away from town of course and I\u2019ll do my best to explain it to him. Hiram why must people be like they are? \u00a0We both know that the courtroom will probably be packed with folks who have nothing better to do than gossip and stick their noses into things that don\u2019t concern them. They\u2019ll only be there for the entertainment factor.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 replied Hiram. \u2018It\u2019s just human nature I suppose. \u00a0Not much we can do about it unfortunately Ben. I\u2019ll come out to the ranch tomorrow to speak to Joseph if that\u2019s all right with you. \u00a0I think it would be better under the circumstances.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben stood up and held out his hand. \u2018Thank you Hiram,\u2019 he said. \u2018I appreciate everything that you\u2019re doing to help.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t mention it Ben,\u2019 said Hiram as they shook hands. \u2018I\u2019ll see you tomorrow.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben sighed as he closed the lawyer\u2019s office door behind him and turned to walk along the sidewalk toward where he\u2019d tethered his horse. He undid the reins from the hitching post as was about to mount up when he heard his name being called from across the road. \u2018Pa! Pa!\u2019 \u00a0He looked over in surprise to see Adam standing there.<\/p>\n

\u2018Adam!\u2019 he said as he walked towards him. \u2018What on earth are you doing in town? \u00a0I thought you and Hoss were out looking for strays?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam swallowed as he tried to catch his breath and Ben could see that he had obviously been riding fast. \u2018We were,\u2019 he managed to finally say. \u2018But there\u2019s been an accident.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Accident?\u2019 \u00a0Ben\u2019s blood ran cold. \u2018Hoss?\u2019 he blurted out.<\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Yes. \u00a0We came across some tracks \u2026 you know how we thought there\u2019s been a cat up there for a few weeks?\u2019 \u00a0Ben nodded anxiously, willing his son to get to the important part. \u2018Well Hoss wanted to get after it,\u2019 continued Adam. \u2018We came upon it and he \u2026\u2019 he swallowed again. \u2018He got down from his horse to take a shot at it.\u2019 \u00a0He swallowed again.<\/p>\n

\u2018And?\u2019 interrupted Ben anxiously.<\/p>\n

\u2018And \u2026 well his rifle discharged as he was getting down.\u2019 Adam looked at his father pleadingly and shook his head. \u2018He\u2019s hurt bad Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Where?\u2019 Ben\u2019s eyes betrayed his anxiety, but he managed to keep his voice steady.<\/p>\n

\u2018In the stomach,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018He\u2019s lost a lot of blood.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No \u2026 I mean, where is he?\u2019 asked Ben as he clutched his son\u2019s arms. \u2018Where is he?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s back at the house by now I\u2019m sure,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I rode back and got some of the men and then came straight in here. I\u2019m sure they\u2019ll have him back at the house by now.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Why didn\u2019t you bring him straight in here?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

\u2018We were closer to the house,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018It was better to get him there. Besides \u2026\u2019 his voice trailed away and he looked at the ground.<\/p>\n

\u2018Besides?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam looked up again, the pain for the brother he loved reflected in his own eyes. \u2018I don\u2019t think he would have made it Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s heart constricted. \u2018He\u2019s that bad?\u2019 he whispered and swallowed as Adam nodded. For a moment he stood not knowing what to do, his thoughts whirling around in his head and his anxiety for his son blocking out everything else. \u2018We have to get the doctor,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018We have to get him straight out there to save your brother.\u2019 \u00a0He turned towards the doctor\u2019s office and had taken a couple of steps before Adam clutched at his sleeve.<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s down at Roy\u2019s office remember?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben stared at is son, momentarily confused. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018Oh \u2026 yes of course.\u2019 He turned and ran towards the jail, Adam close on his heels.<\/p>\n

Roy Coffee looked up as both men burst through the front door of his office. \u00a0As he began to stand up from his desk the smile on his face faded as he noted their anxious looks. \u2018What is it?\u2019 he asked immediately. \u2018What\u2019s happened?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s Hoss,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018He\u2019s been shot and we need the doctor.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy reached up and grabbed the set of keys from the wall. \u2018I\u2019ll have to come too,\u2019 he said. \u2018Officially he\u2019s in my custody.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018I don\u2019t care,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just get him out of that cell and onto a horse straight away Roy. \u00a0Hoss is in a bad way.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy nodded and led the way into the other room where Eddington was sitting in a cell. \u00a0Ben hadn\u2019t laid eyes on the man since that moment days ago when he\u2019d carried Little Joe out of his office and he had no intention of wasting words with him now. \u2018My son\u2019s been shot,\u2019 he said abruptly. \u2018Where is your doctor\u2019s bag?\u2019<\/p>\n

Eddington stood up. \u2018Which son?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018What does that matter?\u2019 replied Ben angrily. \u2018It\u2019s my middle son Hoss. \u00a0Now where is your bag?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s in my office,\u2019 said the man.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m gonna stay with ya,\u2019 explained Roy as he opened the door of the cell. \u2018You\u2019re still in my custody Eddington and don\u2019t you ferget it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018That won\u2019t be necessary Sheriff,\u2019 said Eddington.<\/p>\n

\u2018It sure is!\u2019 declared Roy. \u2018I ain\u2019t got no intention of you taking off on me while you\u2019re tending ta your doctoring.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I said it won\u2019t be necessary Sheriff,\u2019 replied Eddington calmly. \u2018I\u2019m not going anywhere.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s jaw dropped. \u2018Didn\u2019t you hear what I said?\u2019 he shouted. \u2018My son has been shot! \u00a0He could be dying while we\u2019re standing here wasting time! \u00a0Now get going!\u2019<\/p>\n

Doctor Eddington calmly stood up and looked Ben directly in the eye. \u2018No,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

There was silence for a moment as all four men stared at each other. \u2018What do you mean \u2026 no?\u2019 Ben said finally.<\/p>\n

Eddington shrugged his shoulders. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018Why should I?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Because you\u2019re a doctor man!\u2019 shouted Ben, taking a step forward. \u2018You have a responsibility to save my son\u2019s life, that\u2019s why!\u2019 \u00a0He thumped his hand on one of the cell bars.<\/p>\n

Eddington looked Ben straight in the eye as he replied. \u2018I\u2019m not going anywhere,\u2019 he said again.<\/p>\n

Ben looked momentarily confused and then the anger spilled out of him in a rush. \u2018You get out of that cell and help my son!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018If he dies then I\u2019ll have you arrested for murder!\u2019<\/p>\n

Eddington shrugged his shoulders. \u2018You\u2019ve already had me arrested,\u2019 he said easily. \u2018I think I\u2019d rather a charge of murder than the one I\u2019m under now.\u2019 \u00a0He gave Ben a quick smile. \u2018Face it Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s your fault if your son dies, not mine.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam gasped at the man\u2019s words. \u2018You shut up!\u2019 he shouted as he drew his gun and pointed it at the doctor. \u2018Now get out of that cell or you\u2019ll wish you had.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben put his hand on his son\u2019s gun and pushed it down. \u00a0Even in his anger state he knew that this wasn\u2019t the time for violence. \u00a0Such actions could only make matters worse and they all needed to keep this situation contained, not let it get out of control. \u2018Put the gun away Adam,\u2019 he said firmly.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes if I were you I\u2019d put that gun away,\u2019 said the doctor. \u2018Isn\u2019t that right Sheriff. Unless Cartwright here wants to attend two court trials in the same week.\u2019 \u00a0He misled as Adam put the gun back into his holster.<\/p>\n

Ben drew a deep breath and tried to reclaim his composure. \u2018What do you want?\u2019 he asked abruptly. \u2018What will it take for you to help him?\u2019<\/p>\n

The doctor\u2019s face broke out into a grin and his eyes widened. \u2018Ah!\u2019 he said. \u2018Now we come to it don\u2019t we?\u2019 \u00a0He stroked his chin as if in thought. \u2018Now let me see \u2026 I think I\u2019d be willing to help your son as long as you dropped these charges,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019d need your word that I\u2019d walk free as soon as I\u2019ve treated your boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What?!\u2019 shouted Ben. \u2018Why you \u2026.\u2019 He took a step towards the cell, but Roy held onto him. \u2018That is plain blackmail!\u2019 he shouted.<\/p>\n

\u2018Call it what you will,\u2019 said Eddington as he crossed his legs and stared at Ben. \u2018You choice Cartwright.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy drew Ben away into the other office. \u2018Ben promise him anything,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hoss\u2019 life depends on it and you know that. I\u2019ll just lock him up again after he gets that bullet out and nobody will be any the wiser.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa let me go to Placerville for another doctor,\u2019 urged Adam. \u2018Don\u2019t let him blackmail you like this!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben looked from one to the other, his mind racing. After a moment\u2019s hesitation he shook his head firmly. \u2018There isn\u2019t time Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018From what you\u2019ve told me Hoss needs help now. \u00a0If we wait for you to get a doctor from Placerville then your brother might not make it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Then I agree with Roy. \u00a0Tell Eddington you agree and then let Roy bring him back here. \u00a0The most important thing is Hoss right now Pa. You don\u2019t have to keep your word to someone like him in there \u2026. Not after what he did to Joe!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben stared at his son for a moment. \u2018You\u2019re right about one thing Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018The most important thing right now is Hoss \u2026\u2019 he put his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder. \u2018But you\u2019re wrong about the rest of it. \u00a0I do have to keep my word if I give it son \u2026 even to a man like that. \u00a0You see a man\u2019s word is a sign of his integrity. \u00a0No matter what the situation I have to keep it. \u00a0Haven\u2019t I always told you how important it is to be honest in this world?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes but \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No buts son,\u2019 interrupted Ben. \u2018If I give my word then I keep it. \u00a0It\u2019s as simply as that. \u00a0It\u2019s who I am son and I can\u2019t act any differently.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Even at the expense of Hoss\u2019 life?\u2019 Adam pleaded.<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018Nothing is worth that Adam. \u00a0Nothing.\u2019 \u00a0He patted the young man on the shoulder and walked into the next room. \u2018All right Eddington,\u2019 he said. \u2018I give you my word. \u00a0I\u2019ll drop the charge against you if you come out to my ranch right now and get that bullet out of my son.\u2019<\/p>\n

Eddington stood up and walked across his cell. \u2018How do I know that you won\u2019t go back on your word?\u2019 he said suspiciously.<\/p>\n

\u2018You don\u2019t,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018All I can say to you is that I\u2019m giving it to you and I intend to keep it. \u00a0It\u2019s up to you whether or not you believe me.\u2019 \u00a0He tried not to flinch as the doctor studied his face for a moment.<\/p>\n

\u2018And you\u2019ll tell no one why I was in jail?\u2019 the man asked. \u2018None of you?\u2019 \u00a0He looked at Adam and Roy.<\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018No one will know. On one condition.\u2019<\/p>\n

Eddington\u2019s eyes narrowed. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018That as soon as my son is all right you come back into town and catch the next stage out,\u2019 said Ben firmly.<\/p>\n

Addington smiled. \u2018Agreed,\u2019 he said. \u2018Sheriff, if you\u2019ll be so kind as to open this door I\u2019ll get my bag. \u00a0I have a patient to see to.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben drew a deep breath as Roy reached once again for the keys.<\/p>\n

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

Ben burst into his son\u2019s bedroom, followed by Adam. \u2018Hoss?\u2019 he said anxiously as he approached the bed. \u2018Hoss son can you hear me?\u2019 \u00a0When his son didn\u2019t move or even open his eyes, Ben looked over anxiously at Hop Sing who was sitting on the other side of the bed.<\/p>\n

\u2018He asleep is all,\u2019 Hop Sing assured him. \u2018Lost plenty blood.\u2019 \u00a0He glanced over at the doctor who was entering the room, his eyes wide. \u00a0Hop Sing was very much a part of the Cartwright family and as such knew exactly what had been going on during the past few days. \u00a0Even if they\u2019d wanted to, Ben and his sons could never have kept it from him. \u2018What he doing here?\u2019 Hop Sing asked suspiciously.<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s come to treat Hoss,\u2019 replied Ben, as he wiped his son\u2019s brow. \u2018He\u2019s the only doctor available Hop Sing. \u00a0I had no choice.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hop Sing\u2019s eyes narrowed and he drew closer to Hoss as he watched the man intently. \u00a0Eddington put his bag on the bed and then pulled Hoss\u2019 shirt up to reveal the bloody wound. \u2018\u2019Everyone leave the room,\u2019 he said as he reached into the bag and pulled out a few instruments.<\/p>\n

\u2018I hope you\u2019re joking,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018If you really believe that I\u2019m about to leave you here with another my sons then I\u2019m afraid you\u2019re very wrong.\u2019<\/p>\n

Eddington shrugged. \u2018Your choice,\u2019 he said. \u2018But don\u2019t think this is going to be easy.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben clenched his jaw. \u2018Just get it over with while he\u2019s unconscious,\u2019 he said as he took hold of his son\u2019s hand. \u2018Adam,\u2019 he said over his shoulder. \u2018I want you to go.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam shook his head as he glared at the doctor. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m staying.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Adam! \u00a0I want you to go downstairs and stay with Joe,\u2019 said Ben firmly. \u2018Keep him away from the house and don\u2019t let him know what\u2019s going on here. \u00a0Don\u2019t bring him near the front yard until either myself or Hop Sing comes out back to get you. \u00a0I have no intention of Joseph accidentally coming into contact with \u2026\u2019 he paused and made as if to smell an unpleasant odour under his nose. \u2018 \u2026 with anyone,\u2019 he finished.<\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018All right Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll make sure that Joe is all right.\u2019 \u00a0He gave the doctor one last look before turning away.<\/p>\n

\u2018Right,\u2019 said Eddington. \u2018Let\u2019s get this over with shall we?\u2019 \u00a0He looked at Hop Sing. \u2018I\u2019ll need some water and towels.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing indicated the dresser next to the bed. \u2018All ready,\u2019 he said shortly. The doctor nodded slightly and then bent over his patient while Ben clung onto his son\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018But I\u2019m finished!\u2019 declared Joe crossly. \u2018See? I done told you it\u2019s all done!\u2019 \u00a0He indicated the pile of compost in front of him with his pitchfork. \u00a0It was one of his regular jobs to turn the pile over and it was exactly what he was doing when Adam had found him. \u00a0He\u2019d just started back onto a few light chores and even though he was glad to get out and about again, raking the compost pile was definitely something he\u2019d much rather not be doing.<\/p>\n

Adam bit his lip, trying to think of a reason to keep the boy around at the back of the house without letting onto him what was happening. \u00a0He was grateful that Hop Sing had managed to keep Hoss\u2019 accident from him this far and he knew that if Joe had the slightest inkling of what was going on upstairs that nothing would have kept him away from there. \u2018Hop Sing asked for his water barrel to be filled,\u2019 he said suddenly as the thought struck him. He picked up a bucket. \u2018Here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe pulled a face and immediately held onto his side. \u2018I don\u2019t think I\u2019d better,\u2019 he said. \u2018My ribs are real sore Adam.\u2019 \u00a0He looked at his brother to see if he was being believed, but Adam just continued out hold out the bucket as he glanced up at the house. \u2018What are you looking at?\u2019 asked Joe curiously.<\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing,\u2019 said Adam as he reluctantly withdrew his gaze from his brother\u2019s bedroom window. \u2018Go and get the water.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u2018My ribs are sore,\u2019 he whined.<\/p>\n

Adam picked up another bucket. \u2018Oh all right,\u2019 he said. \u2018Come on and we\u2019ll do it together.\u2019 \u00a0He figured that the activity might just keep his mind off Hoss.<\/p>\n

As the two brothers walked down to the small stream that ran behind the house, Joe looked up at Adam. \u2018What\u2019s wrong?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018What makes you think that anything is wrong?\u2019 asked Adam, trying to sound casual.<\/p>\n

Joe looked at his brother\u2019s face intently. \u2018You\u2019re acting all funny,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018Am I?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah. \u00a0What\u2019s going on?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing\u2019s going on,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Now give me that bucket and I\u2019ll fill it up for you. You shouldn\u2019t be bending over so far.\u2019 He filled both buckets and handed one back to Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018Adam?\u2019 said Joe as they walked back towards the house.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 Adam glanced up at the window again and said a silent prayer for his brother.<\/p>\n

\u2018Did Pa tell you he and me is gonna talk in court bout what happened?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah buddy, he did.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m real scared ta do it,\u2019 admitted Joe. \u2018Don\u2019t tell Pa but, will you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam patted his younger brother on the shoulder. \u2018I won\u2019t tell Pa,\u2019 he said. \u00a0At that moment Hop Sing appeared from around the side of the house and beckoned to them. \u2018Come on,\u2019 said Adam as he put down his bucket.<\/p>\n

\u2018Where?\u2019 called Joe as his brother ran off. \u00a0He put down his bucket and began to follow him.<\/p>\n

\u2018 \u2026 he will be,\u2019 he heard Hop Sing say as he approached both men. \u2018No need worry now.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Worry about what\u2019 asked Joe. \u00a0He looked at his brother suspiciously. \u2018What are you so happy about?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Adam slapped his little brother on the back. \u2018I\u2019ll explain later,\u2019 he said. \u2018You stay here with Hop Sing for a few minutes and keep filling that water barrel.\u2019 \u00a0He ran around the side of the house and left Joe wondering what was going on. He looked up at Hop Sing with a questioning look, but the cook only pointed to the bucket. \u00a0Little Joe sighed as he picked it up again.<\/p>\n

As Adam reached the front of the house, he saw the doctor mounting his horse and his father standing watching him. \u2018Hop Sing said that Hoss will be fine,\u2019 he said as he came to stand next to his father. Ben nodded. \u2018You\u2019re really going to let him go?\u2019 Adam asked after a moment.<\/p>\n

Ben nodded again, not taking his eyes off the doctor for a moment. \u2018I told you son \u2026. I gave my word.\u2019 \u00a0He took a step forward and grabbed the reins before the doctor could turn his horse. \u2018Remember what I told you Eddington,\u2019 he said. \u2018If you are not on that stage this afternoon I\u2019m coming after you. \u00a0And if you ever come back to this town again then I\u2019ll see you behind bars.\u2019 Eddington merely nodded at him and pulled his horse away. \u00a0With one last look he rode out of the yard.<\/p>\n

Adam looked at his father. \u2018He\u2019ll really be all right?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Yes,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018He\u2019s lost a lot of blood and he\u2019s weak, but he\u2019ll be fine in time. Much and all as I hate to say it, Eddington certainly knows his craft. \u00a0I\u2019ve never seen finer work than the way he handled the situation up there.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Perhaps he\u2019s not all bad then,\u2019 mused Adam.<\/p>\n

Ben stopped and stared at his son, but didn\u2019t speak. \u2018Can I see Hoss now?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son, you go on up. \u00a0I\u2019ll be up in a moment after I talk to Joseph and let him know what\u2019s happened.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Are you going to tell him that he doesn\u2019t have to testify any more?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

\u2018In time,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018One thing at a time.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Is he all right?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben turned at the sound of a soft voice behind him and peered into the darkness to try and work out whom it was. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 he said. \u2018What are you doing out of bed?\u2019 \u00a0He drew the boy towards him and put an arm around him. \u2018You should be asleep.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018So should you Pa,\u2019 replied Joe.<\/p>\n

Ben grinned at his youngest son. \u2018I suppose so,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018I\u2019m just sitting here with your brother for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe drew closer to his father as they both gazed down at Hoss sleeping in front of them. \u2018Are you sure he\u2019s gonna be all right Pa?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I\u2019m sure son,\u2019 sighed Ben. \u2018The doctor got the bullet out and he\u2019ll be fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe paled. \u2018The doctor?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Was it \u2026 him?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son it was,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018He was the only doctor available and I had to bring him here. \u00a0I\u2019m sorry.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018I don\u2019t care,\u2019 he said. \u2018I mean \u2026 If he saved Hoss\u2019 life it don\u2019t matter does it?\u2019 \u00a0He looked at his father for reassurance.<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph there\u2019s something I have to tell you,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I had to promise to drop the charge against the doctor in exchange for him helping your brother. I had to make the choice.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe didn\u2019t hesitate. \u2018You did?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Well I reckon you chose the right thing Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Yeah. \u00a0Nothing is worth Hoss dying for is it?\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

Ben hugged his son in an even tighter embrace. \u2018No son, I reckon not,\u2019 he said as he looked at Hoss.<\/p>\n

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

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

\u2018I don\u2019t havta go to court now, do I?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018No son you don\u2019t,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018And Doctor Eddington has left town so you never have to see him again either. \u00a0I meant what I said before \u2026 He\u2019s never going to hurt you again Joseph. \u00a0You and your brother are both going to be all right now. \u00a0It\u2019s all over.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

Two months later:<\/i><\/p>\n

Ben looked up as the front door closed. \u2018Adam?\u2019 he said as he saw his eldest son take off his hat and hang it on the hook near the front door. \u2018What are you doing home at this hour? \u00a0I thought you were going to take those supplies straight out to the North Pasture when you\u2019d finished in town.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam came over and sat on the edge of his father\u2019s desk. \u2018I was Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I got a newspaper while I was in town and I thought that you\u2019d want to see it straight away.\u2019 \u00a0He held the paper out to his father. \u2018There\u2019s something in there that you\u2019ll be interested in reading \u2026 page two,\u2019 he said as his father opened the newspaper after giving him a puzzled look. \u00a0He waited while the man read silently.<\/p>\n

After a few moments Ben looked up. \u2018Oh my God,\u2019 he said, giving Adam an anguished look. \u2018He\u2019s done it again.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

Ben looked at the newspaper again in disbelief and continued to read. \u2018In Sacramento,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018The boy is \u2026 he\u2019s eleven years old. \u00a0The trial will \u2026 will be next week.\u2019 \u00a0He lowered the paper and put it on the desk staring at it silently. \u2018This is my fault,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018No it isn\u2019t Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018You didn\u2019t have any choice about what happened.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018This is my fault,\u2019 repeated Ben as he stood up and began to pace up and down in an agitated fashion. \u2018I could have stopped him and I didn\u2019t. \u00a0This other child has paid the price and it\u2019s all my fault!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa you couldn\u2019t \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018Adam we both know that there\u2019s no point in denying it,\u2019 he said. \u2018If I had insisted on Eddington being brought to trial then this would never have happened.\u2019 \u00a0He sat down again and covered his face with his hands. \u2018What have I done? \u00a0Oh God! \u00a0What have I done?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam reached over and put his arm on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Pa you weren\u2019t to know,\u2019 he said. \u2018You had no choice.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018There are always choices Adam,\u2019 said Ben miserably. \u2018We just have to choose the ones that we feel are best at the time.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018And you did,\u2019 insisted Adam. \u00a0\u2018Hoss could be dead right now if you hadn\u2019t.\u2019 \u00a0Ben sat in silence and didn\u2019t speak. \u2018Pa you always tell us that we need to search in our heart for the right thing to do,\u2019 continued his son. \u2018You did that and you acted on what you thought was right.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018But I wasn\u2019t right,\u2019 said Ben. He pointed to the newspaper on the desk. \u2018And there\u2019s the proof of it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You couldn\u2019t go back on your word Pa. \u00a0You said that yourself.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Yes I did \u2026 that\u2019s true. Only \u2026\u2019 his eyes drifted to the newspaper. \u2018Only at what expense? Was keeping my word worth this?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa there\u2019s no simple answer to this. \u00a0You know that.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded again. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s no simple answer. \u00a0I wish to God that there had been Adam. I just wish to God that there had.\u2019 He stood up and walked out of the room, closing the room quietly behind him.<\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

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

Summary: \u00a0Ben is faced with a difficult moral decision that could cost him the life of one of his sons<\/p>\n

Rated: T (14,720 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":3080,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,41,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2087","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","category-prequels","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id","wpcat-30-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe_Racing_Cochise.jpg?fit=840%2C725&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2087","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=2087"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2087\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3080"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2087"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2087"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2087"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}