{"id":2112,"date":"2014-02-20T18:54:00","date_gmt":"2014-02-20T23:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2112"},"modified":"2025-08-01T13:29:17","modified_gmt":"2025-08-01T17:29:17","slug":"restoring-the-heart-of-the-ponderosa-part-two","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2112","title":{"rendered":"Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa – Part 2 (by BluewindFarm)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>: A continuation of Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa. The family looks forward to life returning to normal, but find they have a rocky road to travel as nightmares from the past intrude.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rating<\/strong>:\u00a0 T (55,125 words)
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

This story references a subject of a sensitive nature; however, no such actions occur within this story.<\/span><\/p>\n

The final page contains reviews\/comments from the old BonanzaBrand Library.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa Series:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Part I<\/a><\/span>
\nPart II<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa – Part Two<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Chapter 16 \u2013 First Night<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was the first to see his twelve-year old son standing at the upper landing, on the opposite side of Hop Sing; he immediately stood. His eyes, only on his son, did not acknowledge the others who rapidly followed suit after noticing Ben\u2019s gaze and movements. The father smiled as he recognized the word his son\u2019s mouth formed, \u2018Home\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph?\u201d Ben tentatively called as he hurriedly walked between the settee and the low table, gently pushing Paul Martin and Hoss forward and out of his way.<\/span><\/p>\n

When his son cowered back at his approach, Ben stopped at the base of the staircase, his right hand on the decoration on top of the newel post and his left foot on the step.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The worried father waited as Hop Sing prevented the boy\u2019s retreat and quietly spoke to him. Ben\u2019s heart dropped as the boy\u2019s face conveyed his fear; it was only moments later that Joe\u2019s body gave into its exhaustion and collapsed. Hop Sing supported the child and held the boy until his employer could take his son into his own arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, I hear good doctor say boy sleep, but he woke, say \u2018see home\u2019,\u201d Hop Sing stated while his employer climbed the steps in haste.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for staying with him,\u201d Ben stated as he picked up his son and carried him back to his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFool boy,\u201d Paul stated, shaking his head, as he entered the room behind Ben. He saw the worried expression on the man\u2019s face and added, \u201cBen, as I told Adam in town, he\u2019s exhausted. I\u2019m not even sure how he had the energy to make it from Mill City to here\u2026 Let alone what woke him up just now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHas he set himself back by gettin\u2019 up?\u201d Hoss asked as he had followed the others and lingered at the foot of the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo Hoss, he just needs to sleep and stay in bed for a while. Hop Sing knows what foods to feed him to help him regain his strength. That\u2019s what he really needs now; sleep and nourishment.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stood up from tucking the blankets around his son\u2019s frail body. The child looked so much younger than his soon-to-be thirteen years. The eldest Cartwright tried to stand strong as he thought of the abuse Paul had indicated his boy had suffered while they all thought he was dead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTwo years, Paul. He was out there all along, all alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, we couldn\u2019t a known\u2026\u201d Hoss spoke up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam did,\u201d Ben stated as he looked to his eldest who waited, leaning against the bureau in Joe\u2019s room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo Pa, I didn\u2019t know. I hoped, I prayed, maybe I was grasping at the wind,\u201d Adam replied as he crossed his arms, a defensive movement towards the praise he knew he didn\u2019t deserve.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why\u2019d ya go? Ya seemed so all fire sure when ya got that letter from Gabe,\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam thought before he spoke, \u201cWhen I was with Gabe, we talked and\u2026 he forced me to face a stark truth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A perplexed Ben looked to his eldest son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026 Before I left, I told Hoss that I\u2026 I was seriously considering returning to Grandfather\u2019s.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It shocked Ben to hear his son\u2019s intentions, he had no idea his first born had felt this way. With all three of his sons in the same room, Ben looked long and hard from Adam to Hoss, wondering just what else he had not noticed while grieving over the death of his youngest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you didn\u2019t\u2026 What changed your mind son? I mean, I\u2019m thankful that you stayed\u2026 that you found Joe, but\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGabe\u2019s letter stopped me. I didn\u2019t exactly know why I went\u2026 I mean we all believed he was\u2026 had been killed. But once I arrived in Mill City\u2026 Gabe and I talked, and he was able to help me understand that even though my mind accepted Joe was dead, my heart didn\u2019t and it wouldn\u2019t because I didn\u2019t really want to leave here\u2026 I didn\u2019t want to leave home. If I truly accepted that Joe was dead, there was nothing more to keep me here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand,\u201d Hoss spoke, scratching his chin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d have to know that Gabe\u2019s father is a doctor\u2026 In his medical practice he\u2019s coming to realize that the patient\u2019s mental state has as much to do with recovery as treating the physical body. Gabe would have made an excellent physician himself\u2026\u201d Watching his brother struggle to comprehend, Adam continued, \u201cAnyway, Gabe explained that the wind I was reaching for\u2026 it was really Joe. My quest to find Joe, even though my mind knew otherwise, my heart propelled me on this last grasp to stop me from leaving my family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou find family,\u201d Hop Sing stated, nodding in understanding as he stood within the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m staying and now that Joe\u2019s home, you\u2019re staying, too,\u201d Adam looked to the diminutive man; though small in stature, his heart was large enough to hold the entire Cartwright clan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI stay, I stay for family. Family here, Hop Sing here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGentlemen, I suggest we let this young man sleep; he should sleep for a long time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou said that before, Paul,\u201d Adam voiced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know I did. I forgot what it was like to deal with this little scamp. Before he was in a restless sleep, now\u2026 he\u2019s deep asleep. However, it wouldn\u2019t do any harm to occasionally keep an eye on him through the afternoon and the night. And I mean it, I don\u2019t want any of you to sacrifice your own health by trying to watch him all night long.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The five men left the room, with Ben inviting Paul to stay for lunch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would Ben, but I best get back to town. With Adam\u2019s visit to the barbershop while I examined Joe, I\u2019m sure the gossips in town are already having a field day as to why he left and what might happen now that he has returned. I can also spread the word that Joe\u2019s home,\u201d answered Paul. A large smile graced the man\u2019s face as he stepped to the table behind the settee to retrieve his hat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, I\u2019d like it if no one knew that Joe was home\u2026\u201d requested Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Hoss asked in surprise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have to agree with Hoss; I figured you\u2019d be happy to spread the word that Joe\u2019s alive,\u201d Paul clarified.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey treated my boy\u2019s death like\u2026 like they were planning to attend a church bazaar, excitedly planning what to wear and who they were going to meet up with or sit next to. I heard\u2026 Reverend Harrison told me. Those people, our so-called friends were not planning to mourn my son, but to be at his funeral to be seen! This is my family! My home! I\u2019ll not see my son\u2019s life turned into some circus sideshow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul was beginning to see a new reason behind why Ben had pulled away from the civic responsibilities he had previously supported; it wasn\u2019t to avoid the pity from the people at all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, I agree with our father. A lot of the people I didn\u2019t know, but a few I did\u2026\u201d Adam shook his head in disgust. \u201cI think you\u2019ll agree with what we discussed while we were getting ready to leave your home this morning. It\u2019s going to take time to acclimate Joe to living with his family. It\u2019s going to be difficult enough for him with the family and the ranch hands, but Pa\u2019s right\u2026 Joe doesn\u2019t need to become some \u2018freak\u2019 show attraction.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Nodding in understanding, Paul bid the family goodbye.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Later in the afternoon, the large man stood in the doorway and watched his older brother tending to his horse in the barn before he finally called his brother\u2019s name, \u201cAdam.\u201d He stepped into the building.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a right fine pinto ya got there. Was he\u2026 Joe\u2019s?\u201d Hoss hesitantly asked, somewhat afraid of Adam\u2019s answer, that this horse might be a constant reminder of Joe\u2019s time with those Indians.<\/span><\/p>\n

The oldest brother hesitated while grooming his horse, Sport, and looked to the horse that resided in the previously empty stall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, if you\u2019re asking about that horse being his while he was with the tribe. I purchased him in Mill City\u2026 I remembered one of Joe\u2019s letters while I was still at Harvard, he drew a picture of a pinto saying he hoped when he got big enough for a horse that Pa would buy him a pinto,\u201d Adam answered as he resumed the gentle brush strokes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe don\u2019t look like he grew that much,\u201d Hoss mumbled in observance of his smallest brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss entered the pinto\u2019s stall and began running his hands over the horse\u2019s body, evaluating his conformation and the bone structure of his legs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa done good,\u201d Hoss stated as he gave a gentle pat to the horse\u2019s haunches.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat else\u2026 I know there\u2019s more to you being out here than looking over a horse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss shuffled his feet as he looked over the stall wall. \u201cWhat was you and Doc talking about\u2026 before ya brung Joe home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stopped, exited the stall, and put away the brushes he had been using.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Hoss called when his brother didn\u2019t answer, he followed him to the other side of the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard you\u2026 I said earlier that we need to give Joe time, because he\u2019s struggling to remember how to talk. I guess last night I got a little flustered at him because I didn\u2019t think he was trying hard enough.\u201d Adam looked to his brother and gave a little smirk. \u201cI didn\u2019t remember Pa\u2019s letters about how highly temperamental our youngest brother could be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026 what happened?\u201d Hoss asked as he came to stand next to his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe threw a temper tantrum and ran off for a while. It wasn\u2019t bad at least I don\u2019t think so. I mean, he could have run farther away, but he stopped\u2026 He didn\u2019t come back to camp until I went to get him. He looked so lost\u2026\u201d Adam\u2019s memory went to the night before and quickly returned to the present. \u201cBut\u2026 there\u2019s also the fact that Joe will soon be thirteen and Paul advised me that pretty soon, puberty could start kicking in\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 I remember how tough that was for me, when I started growin\u2019 and\u2026 uh\u2026\u201d Hoss answered as he slipped his hands into his back pockets.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, too. We don\u2019t know how Joe really lived for the past two years\u2026 I mean we know he wasn\u2019t loved or properly cared for\u2026 By his lack of comprehension of English, he hasn\u2019t spoken it in a long while\u2026 He\u2019s going to be so far behind his contemporaries\u2026\u201d Seeing the confusion in Hoss\u2019 eyes he corrected himself, \u201chis schoolmates.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa ain\u2019t gonna let him go back to school, not yet anyhow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I agree with Pa. There\u2019s a lot of work we have to do before we can even consider sending him back to school.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut that can wait, Adam. We gotta get him better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat is the most important step,\u201d Adam agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss thought on some of the statements Paul Martin had made. \u201cHow did ya get him home from Mill City? I mean Doc Martin said ya shouldn\u2019t have come all this way like ya done, and the fact that he\u2019s sleepin\u2019 so much now\u2026 Didn\u2019t he fall asleep on ya bringin\u2019 him home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, and I made sure we took our time traveling.\u201d In his own way, Adam was replaying the events of their return home. \u201cDid you see his expression before he collapsed in Hop Sing\u2019s arms?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, why?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was scared. He looked almost as scared at seeing Pa as he did when I turned and fired on him. I\u2019d love to be able to talk with Gabe\u2019s father right now. What I wouldn\u2019t give to have someone help explain to me everything that\u2019s going to happen and how to help Joe get back to living like a normal human being.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sound scared, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am. Maybe\u2026 maybe I only saw what I wanted to see while we were on our way home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhatcha mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought he really remembered us, the Ponderosa. I thought he was so excited to finally be going home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe mouthed Home, at the stop of the stairs; I saw that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut while we were riding together, he never once looked as scared as he did at the top of the stairs,\u201d Adam sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, could it be that\u2026 in his dreams he dreamed of the Ponderosa and wanted to come home, but now that he\u2019s here\u2026\u201d Hoss looked lost, he was glad his little brother was home, but how could he explain what he was thinking. \u201cCould be\u2026 as little as he is, seein\u2019 Pa comin\u2019 at him and me standin\u2019 there right behind him\u2026 Coulda been just our size scared him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s possible. As far as bringing him home, I guess his constitution kept him going out on the trail. It could be that seeing Pa approach him like that was too much\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlmost reminded me of the times when his momma was alive\u2026 He\u2019d be runnin\u2019 around one minute and the next\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSound asleep, curled up wherever he was,\u201d Adam completed the thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

The brothers smiled at the happier memory.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s another thing we need to stand firm on, he needs to know that there are boundaries and rules\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe just\u2026\u201d Hoss began to object.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam interrupted, \u201cHoss he\u2019s essentially been running free for the past two years. I know from the bruises and scars on his body he\u2019s been punished, but those were probably because he is white. I need you to understand that this is going to be difficult for all of us, and hardest for Joe. Just the fact that he\u2019s home\u2026 I can\u2019t believe that the nightmare is over. Remember after Marie died and Pa left\u2026 Even after Pa came home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis nightmares stopped,\u201d Hoss added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut not the temper tantrums, they got worse when Pa asked him to do something.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you got him to settle down and do\u2026\u201d Hoss stated, remembering a few tantrums his brother threw and how only Adam could get the boy to calm down and do as their father had asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but the point is\u2026 he\u2019s going to throw tantrums from exasperation to frustration\u2026 Shoot, I\u2019ll probably throw a tantrum or two, myself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hearing the levity in Adam\u2019s voice, Hoss gawked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWE have to be strong, for him and for Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s strong\u2026\u201d Hoss protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot now, not when it comes to Joe; maybe before he disappeared Pa was strict with him, but now\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019re we gonna do?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRight now, we\u2019ll offer him love and support as well as guide him through his transition back to living with us.\u201d Turning to survey that everything in the barn was where it should be, Adam faced his brother. \u201cLet me ask you this\u2026 How\u2019s he going to take being watched twenty-four hours a day? Because you know that\u2019s what Pa\u2019s going to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s just \u2018cause he loves him and won\u2019t wanna see him hurt again,\u201d Hoss explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but too much love, too much protectiveness can have the opposite effect. Hoss, I\u2019m going to depend a lot on you; other than the past two weeks, it\u2019s been seven years since I\u2019ve interacted with Joe. He\u2019s trying, but last night he showed me something that I\u2019m not sure I can handle correctly. You know how to help a scared animal\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe ain\u2019t no animal!\u201d defended Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 he\u2019s not an animal, but we\u2019ll need to have the same approach, let them know they are safe, loved, and fed, but where Joe is concerned there are rules to obey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you\u2019re right,\u201d Hoss shrugged his shoulders. \u201cHe was always testin\u2019 Pa to see what he could get away with\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we go see what Hop Sing has fixed for supper?\u201d Adam offered as he wrapped his arm around his brother\u2019s shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

Neither of the brothers took the time to see the vibrant colors of the late afternoon sky as they walked across the yard to their home; their focus was on their family.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Throughout the afternoon Hop Sing had worked to prepare a wonderful meal, a celebratory meal. The pleasant aroma permeated the house from the kitchen out into the great room. The three elder Cartwrights sat around the table with their plates filled. Hoss and Adam ate and complimented Hop Sing for his culinary skills when he set a fresh pot of coffee on the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

The cook nodded before he retreated from the room. When it was just the family, Adam watched his father sitting at the table, fork in hand, but making few trips from his plate to his mouth. Life was back in his father\u2019s demeanor; however, even the worry that etched his face couldn\u2019t prevent the deep sigh he exhaled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, he\u2019ll wake up when his body is ready,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s not natural for a boy to sleep this long,\u201d Ben replied as he practically ignored the food on his plate and kept looking to the staircase. \u201cNot Joe, he never slept during the day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, he\u2019s probably sleepin\u2019, like Doc said, \u2018cause this is the first time he\u2019s felt safe, that he could sleep. That, and\u2026\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what?\u201d Ben inquired, his forearm rested heavily on the table\u2019s edge.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, me and Adam was a talkin\u2019 in the barn\u2026 And Doc Martin done told him Joe\u2019s exhausted, but he also told Adam that it\u2019s about that time for Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat time?\u201d Ben asked, a perplexed look crossed his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hid a smile behind his napkin as he wiped his mouth, interested in how his brother would explain it and how long it would take their father to understand what it was that Hoss was trying to describe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa, know\u2026 That time. The talk\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben interrupted, \u201cI said there will be no talk of Joseph in town.\u201d Looking to his eldest son, Ben continued, \u201cTonight, I\u2019d like for you to explain to the men that are in the bunkhouse what\u2019s happened. Right now they don\u2019t know anything other than Paul was here earlier. Tell them that this is a private matter and their continued employment depends on their discretion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will Pa, but that\u2019s not the \u2018talk\u2019 Hoss was talking about,\u201d Adam worked to keep a straight face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stared at his eldest son, \u201cWould you care to enlighten me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Unwilling to look his father in the eye, Adam answered, \u201cI think Hoss should.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss glared at his brother, took a breath and said, \u201cPa, it\u2019s that growing stuff\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour brother was always on the small side, took after Marie, and now\u2026 two years of being malnourished\u2026 We\u2019ll just have to take it slow and easy in order to help his body adjust to good food so that he can grow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026 It ain\u2019t just the growin\u2019 because of food, there\u2019s the other kinda growin\u2019\u2026 Growin\u2019 up\u2026 Purbity\u2026 Ain\u2019t that what it\u2019s called?\u201d Hoss looked to his brother for help.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave a brief laugh, \u201cClose\u2026 Pa, Doc Martin stated that with Joe nearing thirteen, we should also expect the onset of puberty.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Ben smiled and then frowned. \u201cHe\u2019s not yet thirteen\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet, but we really don\u2019t know him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s your brother!\u201d countered Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, Adam ignored his father\u2019s comment and continued, \u201cYou wrote in your letters to me that Joe was temperamental and emotional, those traits will only be compounded when his body starts to change\u2026 With everything he\u2019s suffered, we have to be prepared for that to possibly affect his ability to assimilate back to living with us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou two weren\u2019t that bad\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe ain\u2019t as emotional as little brother, either,\u201d Hoss asserted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we had you to help guide us in the years leading up to our change,\u201d Adam added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe doesn\u2019t look as if he\u2019s grown that much in the two years he\u2019s been missing,\u201d Ben stated, depression settled deeper. He visualized the small child sleeping upstairs; how would all this affect the boy… The child tucked into his bed, who should have spent the past two years enjoying the love and protection of his family; not alone and in a hostile environment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, it\u2019s going to take all three of us to get him through this. If Paul were here, he\u2019d order you to eat, and then you can go upstairs and spend a few hours watching Joe,\u201d Adam stated, trying to get their father to consider himself for a while.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss looked at each other as their father finally began to eat his supper.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

After Hop Sing had cleared the table, Ben left the dining room and slowly walked up the staircase. He was anxious to return to his youngest, but at the same time grieved for his loss\u2026 two years of missing Marie\u2019s child growing up and now, knowing the boy had suffered during that time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s gonna be a long night, ain\u2019t it Adam?\u201d Hoss asked as he followed his father\u2019s progress up the stairs and out of sight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, a long night and days to come. Hoss, can you take care of the horses tonight? I need to talk to Charlie and the rest of the hands.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two brothers left the table, stopping just outside of the front door; each knew the other was silently wishing him good luck, before heading their separate ways.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Laughter and music from a harmonica slowly quieted after Adam entered the bunkhouse, as his presence became known.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoss?\u201d Charlie called, looking up from polishing a boot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie, can I see you outside for a few minutes?\u201d inquired Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEverything okay?\u201d Charlie queried as he bent to retrieve his other boot from under his bunk. He slipped them on before heading to the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing to be worried about.\u201d Turning to speak to the others, \u201cDon\u2019t worry; there\u2019s no trouble to take you away from relaxing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Closing the door behind them, Adam motioned for Charlie to follow him; they stopped next to the corrals.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNice evening, isn\u2019t it,\u201d Adam commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Charlie replied, looking up to the sky. \u201cWelcome home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks. It\u2019s good to be home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomething on your mind?\u201d Charlie asked when Adam didn\u2019t say anything more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie I wanted to tell you, before I tell the men.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds serious\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, but it\u2019s good news.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood news is usually accompanied by a smile or laughter. You look worried, if you don\u2019t mind me saying.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t. The news is good, but the ramifications have me worried,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you just spit it out\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure spitting it out is the best way to tell you.\u201d Adam stepped to the corral, resting his forearms, one across the other, on the top railing, his foot on the bottom rail. \u201cYou know I\u2019ve been gone for the past month; did Hoss say anything about where I went?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d Charlie mimicked Adam\u2019s stance at the fence.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam struggled with how to explain and what to say. Rocking back on his heels, he looked to his feet for a few moments before returning to watch the horses milling about in the corral. Charlie waited.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI brought Joe home,\u201d Adam quietly stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d Charlie asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned to face the long-time foreman.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy brother,\u201d Adam didn\u2019t know any other way to say it that didn\u2019t sound condescending towards the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour little brother?\u201d Charlie gasped in shock.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded and gave the man a few moments to accept what he had said. \u201cIt\u2019s a long story, but he\u2019s alive and he\u2019s home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard one of the fellas say Doc Martin was here earlier\u2026 I never woulda guessed that would be why\u2026 How is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMalnourished\u2026 Abused\u2026 Exhausted\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, are you sure? I mean\u2026 What happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we\u2019re sure. Quite a shock for Pa and Hoss, too. We don\u2019t know all the details, hell\u2026 we don\u2019t know any of the details.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to see him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be asleep,\u201d Adam added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be quiet\u2026 This place hasn\u2019t quite been the same since\u2026 But I gotta see for myself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know and I agree. I\u2019ll take you up to his bedroom,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure my going up will be okay with Mr. Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you\u2019re practically family\u2026 come on.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked up as the door opened, Adam entered first followed by Charlie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t mean to disturb you\u2026\u201d Charlie whispered. \u201cI just had to see for myself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand,\u201d Ben acknowledged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s really him,\u201d Charlie opened his eyes wider in disbelief. Shaking his head from side to side, he wanted to know more, but knew that could wait until later. Still something inside stirred him to say, \u201cNeeds a haircut.\u201d\u00a0 The boy’s long hair draped across the pillow, down to his shoulders.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam refrained from snickering; the ranch foreman and his father had matching ideas on certain aspects of appearances, only his father had not yet addressed this issue.\u00a0 Adam regretted he hadn’t addressed the issue prior to leaving Mill City, but he’d felt it was more important to get Joe home than to expose him to strangers in a strange town; just to get his hair cut.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie turned to his employer, \u201cThank you, Ben. I\u2019d best be returning to the bunkhouse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam followed Charlie into the hallway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, if you\u2019d like\u2026 I can tell the others,\u201d Charlie offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d appreciate that. Also, from my father, let them know that this is a family matter and their continued employment depends on them keeping their mouths shut, especially when they go to town. Joe\u2019s been through a lot and we\u2019d prefer if the good people of Virginia City left us alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make sure the men know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night, Charlie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNight, boss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly Charlie made his way down the stairs, knowing that he\u2019d seen the boy himself, but it was still difficult to accept that the boy was alive. He crossed the floor of the great room and stopped upon seeing Hop Sing standing in the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s really home?\u201d Charlie asked, still seeking confirmation. Absentmindedly he rubbed his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Adam bring boy home. He sleep all day. Not like Lit\u2019le Joe to sleep so long.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam said the boy was exhausted\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNeed sleep, food, love\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI best go. I told Adam I\u2019d tell the others.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With that, Charlie left the house and Hop Sing returned to his kitchen, both remembering their own feelings from that day two years before.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 17 \u2013 The Nightmare Began<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Night had long settled across the land and neither Adam nor Hoss could convince their father to leave Joe\u2019s room, so they said goodnight to each other outside the closed door, returned to their own rooms, and hoped that sleep would come soon.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam restlessly lay on his bed having only stripped down to his black pants. Before lying down, he looked to the family portrait on the shelf that had been taken only weeks before he\u2019d left for Boston. Three sons who looked so dissimilar yet it was clear they were a family. Adam moved the picture from where it had rested for the past eighteen months and placed it on his desk, next to his mother\u2019s music box. Giving in to the pull of sleep, he returned to his bed to lay down. However, in the darkness, his mind actively replayed the past month and worried of things to come. He tossed and turned; ultimately lying on his back with his arm flung over his eyes and his leg crooked at the knee, flat of his foot on the bed. As much as he tried to relax, his hopes of pressing all concerns out of his mind only caused him more agitation. Eventually, exhaustion finally claimed the oldest Cartwright son.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss entered his room and hugged himself, thrilled that his youngest brother was alive and home. He envisioned fishing at the pond and riding out on the range with his youngest sibling, much as they did up until two years prior. The clothes he had worn earlier were draped over the lattice work of the straight-back chair in his room. He smoothed out his nightshirt before pulling the covers up to his chest. Settling into his bed, content that there wasn\u2019t anything to worry about, Hoss sighed. As Adam had said earlier in the evening, nice and slow and with love, he knew that was all Joe needed. His last thoughts of the night were spent looking forward to the morning and the banter at the breakfast table with both his brothers present. Sleep came easily to the middle son, as evident by the snoring that reverberated in his room, and resonated down the hallway.<\/span><\/p>\n

The drapes in the room that had stood unoccupied for far too long were drawn closed, though they swayed gently in the night breeze after Hop Sing had opened the window earlier to air out the room. The lantern on the desk burned dimly, casting a warm glow over the furniture and the people in the room. The sight of his young son lying securely in his bed should have comforted the man; instead, he worried. Images slipped in and out of his mind of how his son had been treated. When he had carried his son from the top of the stairs to his room earlier in the day, it shocked him to realize just how slight his son was, especially compared to his siblings at the same age. He wondered about the abuse Paul had mentioned and just what scars, physical and emotional, would always be there to remind them of the past two years.<\/span><\/p>\n

Before sleep claimed Ben, he thought of happier times and his son\u2019s contagious laugh as well as the boy\u2019s need for hugs. The child had always been filled with love for his family and the land they called The Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe bolted upright in his bed, unsure how he\u2019d gotten to his room or why it was dark. The only thing he remembered was Charlie yelling for him to run for the root cellar. Kicking the covers from his legs, he jumped from his bed, ran out the door, and bolted down the hallway.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben woke at hearing noises coming from outside the room. Casually, his eyes drifted to the partially opened door before scanning across the rest of the bedroom. With a speed belying his age, Ben launched himself from the chair upon seeing his son\u2019s empty bed, covers strewn off the far side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No, it couldn\u2019t have been a dream,\u201d Ben pleaded with God. When he heard the front door slam open into the sideboard downstairs, he looked to and ran through the open doorway. He knew it hadn\u2019t been a dream.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam! Hoss!\u201d Ben yelled as he entered the hallway.<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time Ben made it to the great room, Hop Sing stood with a lamp in his hand, asking, \u201cWhat wrong?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Joe\u2026 Joe woke and he\u2019s gone!\u201d Ben shouted as he followed his son out the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n

The frantic father paused, trying to hear which way his son might have run. He was calmed by the fact that the horses dozed in the corral, and it appeared the barn doors were still securely latched. Looking right, he followed the muted cries and hollow thumping indicating someone was around the side of the house at the doors to the cold cellar.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?!\u201d Ben shouted as he ran.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss had paused only long enough to pull on his boots as he answered his father\u2019s yell from the hallway, having been awakened by the slamming of the front door only moments before. Still sleepy, he didn\u2019t even think of grabbing a weapon as he ran down the stairs, across the floor and out the door, clad in only his green checked nightshirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam paused long enough in his bedroom to pull on his boots; he\u2019d lain in bed having only stripped to his pants. While running down the stairs he worked at pulling on a shirt. At the sideboard he grabbed his revolver from its holster and followed his father and brother out the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?!\u201d Hoss hollered as he and Adam ran across the wooden porch into the yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFatha go that way,\u201d answered Hop Sing as he pointed the direction Ben had run.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Hop Sing?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt Lit\u2019le Joe, he run away,\u201d Hop Sing answered worriedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben rounded the corner to see his youngest frantically pulling on the handle to one of the double doors that led to the cold storage area under the house; his fright blinded him from seeing the bar that latched the doors closed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Ben called as he ran towards his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy looked up, panicked, and screamed, \u201cNO!\u201d He ran from the man who approached him, toward the trees that he perceived as a place to hide and hopefully to safety.<\/span><\/p>\n

Realizing there was no danger requiring his gun; Adam slipped it into the waist of his pants and followed his father around the side of the house. Rounding the corner of the building, Adam reacted quicker than his father or Hoss, who was still behind him, and took off after his youngest brother, running through the woods, jumping over fallen trees, and skirting around boulders. The eldest son reached the scared boy deep into the stand of trees.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s okay,\u201d Adam tried to calm the boy as he grabbed his brother from behind, around his chest and hauled him up short.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCHARLIE!\u201d Joe screamed. \u201cCHARLIE!\u201d He clawed at the arms which held him and began to kick backwards in an effort to escape. He felt the cold steel of the gun as it pressed into his back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s me, Adam,\u201d he spoke soothingly in his brother\u2019s ear; he worried about the boy\u2019s ragged gasps for breath as he thrashed about, fighting against being restrained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam cursed and dropped his brother when one kick caught him on the inside of his knee; he felt his leg buckle and soon both were on the ground. Adam reached for his knee as he watched Joe try to scramble, crab-walk, away from him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay away from me!\u201d Joe shouted before he turned over, clambered to his feet, and began to run, slamming straight into his middle brother. \u201cCHARLIE!\u201d Joe screamed again, kicking, as Hoss wrapped his arms around his brother and held him in a protective embrace, preventing the boy from using his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe attempted to fight, to break free; all the while crying and screaming in his head for his family to hurry up and return home. \u201cPa\u2026\u201d Joe pitifully cried before darkness claimed him.<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time Ben reached the scene, a night-shirt clad Hoss cradled an unconscious Joe in his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI fell asleep,\u201d Ben guiltily admitted as he pushed back his baby\u2019s long hair from the boy\u2019s face. \u201cI woke to find his bed empty\u2026 I heard a crash downstairs and\u2026 followed the sounds around the side of the house. He was trying to get into the root cellar.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d he do a thing like that?\u201d Hoss queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProbably for the same reason he kept calling for Charlie,\u201d Adam offered as he sat up on the ground, rubbing his knee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you okay, Adam?\u201d Ben asked as he stepped to his oldest and offered him assistance to rise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe caught me in the knee… My leg buckled. I can walk. Joe\u2019s more important,\u201d Adam stated, nodding his head to Hoss who held Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get him home and back in bed,\u201d Ben stated as he waited for his large son to pass him and slowly walked next to his limping eldest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled his revolver from his waistband and carried it in his hand as he followed his family back to the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

****<\/span><\/p>\n

In the front yard, Ben declined Charlie\u2019s offer to go for Doctor Martin explaining it would probably be better to wait until later in the morning. At least someone would have a good night\u2019s sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The evening had turned to night hours before and the long-time ranch foreman had been unable to sleep after Adam had privately informed him of Joe\u2019s return, before telling the rest of the hands as a group. Charlie had felt relief upon hearing the good news, but as the bunkhouse eventually quieted down, guilt consumed him; he had been the one responsible for taking care of the youngest Cartwright that day and he had failed this employer\u2026 and the boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

As snores indicated the others were asleep, Charlie walked from the bunkhouse and stood near the corral, his memories caused him to shiver. He watched the horses milling about when the front door to the main house flew open and a young child ran across the yard. The foreman stood frozen in place upon recognizing the retreating figure. Emotions overwhelmed him as he remembered the last time he had seen the boy run away from him. Even after hearing the child screaming his name, Charlie couldn\u2019t bring himself to move; his shoulder began to ache as well as his head, reminding him of his own injuries from that day two years before. He watched as first his employer and then the two eldest sons, followed after the youngest.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie stood next to Hop Sing as the Cartwrights slowly returned to the house and went inside. No one knew Hop Sing\u2019s exact age, but standing next to the long-time foreman, Hop Sing appeared down-right weary. A comparison in likes, the two men were weary in heart, as well as remembrances.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoy here, but not home,\u201d Hop Sing stated with sadness as his hand covered his heart.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t believe it when Adam told me earlier\u2026 It\u2019s such a shock\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe no sleep. Honorable doctor say boy abused. Boy hurt in body and heart,\u201d Hop Sing shook his head in regret. How could anyone harm a child he loved as if his own?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know the boss said no, but\u2026 do you think I should go for the doc anyway?\u201d Charlie inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMista Cartwright say wait till morning\u2026 It best let honorable doctor sleep. Morning come soon enough.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In quiet solitude, the two men went their separate directions.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what do ya think caused Shortshank to run like that?\u201d Hoss asked after laying Joe in his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have no idea,\u201d Ben answered as he pulled the cover over his son. \u201cI can see none of us are going to get any more sleep, why don\u2019t you go get dressed for the day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked from his father to his youngest brother and back again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll yell if he wakes before you get back,\u201d Ben replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Three men lounged haphazardly throughout the room, not one willing to let the youngest out of their sight. Having witnessed the panic that had consumed the boy, they each wanted to be there to reassure Joe he was loved, and safe, when he woke. Sleep pulled heavy at their eyelids, but the moment a set of eyes closed, images and fears forced them to spring open again.<\/span><\/p>\n

The bright dawn of morning shown upon the fatigued family, as their youngest continued to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Their father sat in an overstuffed chair pulled close to the bed. He leaned forward, one elbow on his knee, the other arm stretched out, his thumb constantly rubbing the back of his son\u2019s hand that he held clasped in his own.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think it might have been a nightmare,\u201d offered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat mighta been a nightmare\u2026 Oh\u2026 Adam\u2026 He\u2019s had nightmares before, but none like that\u2026\u201d Hoss answered as he sat on the floor and rested back against the wall, legs straight out in front of him. The largest son stretched his arms out wide in a failed attempt to prevent his yawn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should have Paul out here sometime to discuss more of what we can expect from Joe,\u201d Adam suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d we need that?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEven though he\u2019s not interacted\u2026 talked with us\u2026.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss interrupted, \u201cBut you done talked with him on the way home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut not as his brother\u2026 More like someone who protected him, someone who was restoring him to his family,\u201d Adam somberly replied. \u201cI think his coming home, standing at the top of the stairs\u2026 It\u2019s possible it\u2019s woke some memories he\u2019s forgotten.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019d ya mean\u2026?\u201d Hoss queried as he pulled one leg up, bent at the knee, from the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat would make sense,\u201d Ben added as he thought on what his eldest said. \u201cFor him to scream for Charlie\u2026 And not Hoss or myself\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOr Adam\u2026\u201d Hoss added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t home that day, and hadn\u2019t been for five years. And from what I remember, he didn\u2019t know that I would be coming home with you after the cattle drive,\u201d Adam corrected. \u201cWhy would he call out my name?\u201d The last part came out sounding a little bitter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026\u201d Hoss heard the regret in his brother\u2019s and his father\u2019s voices, \u201cBut Pa, he did call for ya, just before he passed out. I know I heard him whimper Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat in the wooden chair in front of the desk in Joe\u2019s room, unconsciously rubbing his knee. \u201cI wish I knew how to proceed. Whether we should push the issue to get him to talk about what happened\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut if\u2019n he don\u2019t really remember how to speak\u2026\u201d Hoss quietly stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s part of the trouble. But the other issue is, if we don\u2019t get him to talk and just let him keep repressing the past, when might his memories come flooding back and what harm will that do to him?\u201d Adam responded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Casting his head from side to side, Ben looked to his youngest, sitting lost in thought not knowing what they should do. Taking care of a child as a first time parent is full of mistakes and learning experiences, but there is always another parent or two around to offer advice or an ear to listen. And with each subsequent child born into the family, parenting becomes a little easier. But Ben feared that he had little knowledge to draw on to guide them through the unchartered territory that now lay before them.<\/span><\/p>\n

The questions stayed unasked of the youth; what happened that day and how did he end up in Lander County with that tribe? In their desires to protect the boy, they didn\u2019t want to cause him anymore pain by forcing him to tell them, but in order to quell the onslaught of nightmares, the boy needed to get his fears out into the open. Each man waited silently in his own thoughts, wishing the child to wake and at the same time, wishing he\u2019d stay asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben wanted to erase the past two years from his son\u2019s memory as he watched the boy alternate between twitching and growing restless in his sleep to serenely lying under the covers.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLit\u2019le Joe, you come downstairs, Charlie have buckboard ready. We go get supplies,\u201d Hop Sing called from the bottom of the staircase.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The Oriental man wore black, fitted pants under a black long-waisted overshirt. Underneath, he wore a starched white shirt that was visible above the collar and below the cuffs, as well as between the loops that fastened around the front buttons. The cut and color of the outfit indicated his status as one employed by a family of means, and for this he was a man of stature within the Chinese community. Around the Ponderosa, he would wear his normal outfit, similar in cut, but of a blue hue that fit loosely, indicating his status as a servant of the household.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I have to go with you?\u201d Joe asked from the second floor of the house, hesitating before slowly taking the steps, hand trailing behind him on the banister<\/em>.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The curly-haired child was small for his age, had been since the day of his birth, and the dungarees he wore only made him appear more so.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou no feel good?\u201d Hop Sing asked, sensing the child wasn\u2019t as ecstatic for the trip into town as he had been at breakfast.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I feel fine\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy you no want go to town with Hop Sing?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe walked down to the mid-landing of the staircase before he sat down, placed both elbows upon his knees and rested his chin upon the heels of his hands.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got some thinkin\u2019 to do, Hop Sing.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think in buckboard\u2026 come\u2026 we go, now.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s about Adam\u2026\u201d Joe whispered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrotha Adam be home soon. Take time say goodbye to friends and grandfatha, time to travel \u2018cross country.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u2026\u201d Joe shrugged his shoulders. \u201cBut I gotta remember him.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou remember brotha when you see him.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had a dream last night\u2026 I forgot about it until I went into his room\u2026\u201d admitted Joe.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou no go in brotha room, you know betta,\u201d scolded the housekeeper\/cook.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but\u2026 Hop Sing\u2026 How would you feel if someone you knew and loved forgot about you\u2026 I just have to remember\u2026 And I think I am,\u201d Joe looked up, slightly encouraged.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think you stay home, you remember?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded, he just knew that if he could stay home, stay where Adam had been, that his dream would come back and he\u2019d remember.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI ask Charlie he watch you\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know any other time I\u2019d want to go to town with you, don\u2019t you?\u201d pleaded Joe.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you go with Hop Sing. This more important to Lit\u2019le Joe. You do as Charlie say? You mind him like you mind fatha? Like you mind Hop Sing.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled. \u201cI\u2019ll mind him like my life depends upon it.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust do as Charlie say, no need life depend on it.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Hop Sing,\u201d the boy stated as he finished walking down the steps and reached out to hug his friend and confidant.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI tell Charlie you stay here. Maybe, help think, you help Charlie do chores in barn.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing patted the young boy on the back before stepping aside and pushing the boy back upstairs.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Several hours later, Charlie entered the barn to check on the youngest son of his employer and to gather more nails needed to finish replacing a few top rails in the corral, where the horses had chewed through the wood enough to weaken its integrity.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou did real good with your job today, Little Joe. Your pa will be proud of how you arranged this area,\u201d Charlie claimed as he stood behind the boy who had worked hard all morning to clean the tack and feed area in the front corner of the barn.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo ya think so, Charlie?\u201d ten-year old Little Joe asked as he hitched his thumbs to the suspenders of his dirty dungarees.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy I don\u2019t think Mr. Hoss himself could have done a better job.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo ya think it\u2019ll stay a\u2026ranged until they come home?\u201d Joe asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you put away everything after you use it between now and then, it\u2019ll stay arranged.\u201d Charlie laughed as the boy\u2019s shoulders slightly dropped.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAw Charlie\u2026 I just want Pa to know how much I can help around the ranch\u2026 that he can depend on me to work.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you know your Pa hires men to work\u2026 You just worry about growing up and doing your lessons and your own jobs.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but this is our barn\u2026 our land\u2026 Hoss helps Pa out on the range\u2026 and I just want to show him how much I can help him around here when they\u2019re not home. I know I ain\u2019t big enough to rope or brand\u2026\u201d Joe sounded a little sad.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe lets you help hold the cut\u2026 don\u2019t forget that,\u201d Charlie smiled as the boy\u2019s demeanor improved.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I can help hold the cut, but that\u2019s more Star\u2019s job.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to guide him, and believe me\u2026 If you weren\u2019t there, he\u2019d be just as happy chomping grass. And I don\u2019t know of any other rider and pony who do as fine a job as the two of you.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Charlie\u2026 Do you need me to do anything else?\u201d Joe asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I think I\u2019ve got my money outa ya today,\u201d the man teased. \u201cHop Sing did say he probably wouldn\u2019t be back until later this afternoon\u2026 why don\u2019t we go inside and raid his kitchen.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes enlarged and he began laughing as the two stepped to the doors of the barn; the young boy began plotting what he wanted to snack on, and remembered the plate of cookies sitting on the kitchen counter.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Charlie stopped and restrained Joe when he saw several riders dismounting from their horses over by the main entrance to the house.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I help you?\u201d Charlie called out.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re just travelers looking for a rest and to water our horses, mister,\u201d answered one of the men.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is private property\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat doesn\u2019t sound too hospitable\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust stating fact,\u201d Charlie answered as a shiver ran down his spine. From behind he heard whooping and hollering. The twang of an arrow impaling the door next to him scared the man.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRUN JOE! Get to the cellar!\u201d he shouted and shoved Joe to the side. As he moved he saw several other men making their way through the corral, guns drawn.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie tried to create a diversion, hoping he could give Joe enough time to get to safety. Over the fire of rifles and handguns Charlie yelled, \u201cBar yourself in boy!\u201d as he ran towards the water trough, intending to use it as cover, while he returned fire.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

His vision spun as an arrow slammed into his shoulder, flipping him to the ground. The foreman\u2019s world went black before his body came to a complete rest, having struck his head on the edge of the trough.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCHARLIE!!!\u201d Joe screamed, before turning to run again.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The scared ten-year old didn\u2019t get too far before massive arms grabbed him; he turned and fought with all his heart.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCHARLIE!!!\u201d Joe screamed, he turned and fought against the massive arms that held him, preventing him from falling out of the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CHAPTER 18 \u2013 There\u2019s No Place Like Home<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy Shortshanks, I got ya,\u201d Hoss crooned as he held his brother close. \u201cNo need to be scared\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie\u2026\u201d Joe pitifully cried and tried to strike out. \u201cOh, Pa\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I\u2019m right here,\u201d Ben stated as he reached across the bed and rubbed his son\u2019s back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, please\u2026\u201d Joe stopped fighting and grabbed hold of the vest, not knowing it was his brother who held him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, you\u2019re home\u2026 You\u2019re safe,\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy in Hoss\u2019 arms sniffed and hiccuped; the big man could feel him trembling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Shortshanks\u2026 Pa, and Adam and me, we got ya\u2026\u201d Hoss softly spoke, rocking his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked up to see Hop Sing standing in the doorway bearing a tray with a coffee pot and cups, tears running down his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing\u2019s here too,\u201d Hoss added.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took deep shuddering breaths, but had yet to open his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Quietly, Adam rose from his chair, walked over and sat down next to his brothers; Ben pulled back his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, listen to me\u2026 listen to my voice. You don\u2019t have to be scared any more\u2026 I told you on our way to the Ponderosa that I\u2019d protect you. Do you remember?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly the boy\u2019s head rose to look to the man who spoke to him, he barely nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember home?\u201d asked Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019ome,\u201d Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember who lives at home?\u201d Adam was pleased that he had been able to draw his brother away from his nightmare; to have him focus on something better.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Pa lives at home. Do you remember Pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs he in this room?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hid his face in the vest he still gripped within his hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I won\u2019t let anyone hurt you. Do you trust me?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe peeked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you before we left Mill City that you could trust me; that I\u2019d get you home\u2026 to Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019ome to ah.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHome and Pa.\u201d Adam over pronounced the words; from his peripheral vision he saw Ben lean towards his youngest, and shook his head in warning against the movement. \u201cJoe, will you trust me that no one is going to hurt you? Will you trust me when I ask you to look for Pa?\u201d Again Adam emphasized the first letter of the word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cP-ah?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Joe\u2026 Look behind you\u2026\u201d Adam encouraged.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe did as Adam asked, albeit slowly, he turned his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, just like a scared animal.\u201d Hoss further explained, \u201cLet him come to you. I ain\u2019t holdin\u2019 him now, just hold your hand out towards him, but don\u2019t touch him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked to the silver-haired man who sat on the opposite side of the bed from him; the boy cocked his head left and right. With hesitant movements Joe raised a hand and reached out towards the man. He touched the outstretched hand and pulled back. Realizing that no one had moved to punish him, Joe reached out again. Ben hardly felt his son\u2019s fingertips on his cheek before they moved towards his hair. \u201cP-ah?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With a nod of his head, Ben answered, \u201cYes, Joseph, I\u2019m Pa.\u201d Ben\u2019s heart pained as he tried hard to restrain himself from moving lest he break this tenuous connection he had with his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cP-ah,\u201d Joe whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho else lives at home?\u201d Ben asked, his eyes softening while he allowed a smile to appear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAd-um,\u201d Joe spoke; he looked and pointed to his oldest brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Joe,\u201d Adam encouraged. \u201cWho else? Who else lives at home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019Oss.\u201d Without being asked, Joe looked up and into the eyes of his middle brother whose arms still surrounded him; the man exuded compassion and love.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right Shortshanks, I\u2019m big ol\u2019 Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you\u2019re Little Joe,\u201d Hoss reached up and ruffled is brother\u2019s long, wavy hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grew curious why he didn\u2019t fear the ruffling of his hair, there was something familiar about the movement and the way the big man\u2019s voice resonated as he rested his head against the man\u2019s chest. As the men in the room calmly spoke, Joe felt a peace he had not sensed in a long time; he couldn\u2019t think of how to explain, but he knew these men would not hurt him.<\/span><\/p>\n

He took a chance to look around the room; hoping he would not be reprimanded for doing something he had not been told to do. His eyes came to rest on the housekeeper, who still stood in the doorway. \u201cNo go ta-ow-n,\u201d Joe whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, we no go town for supplies.\u201d Hop Sing lowered his head in guilt, as he held a tray bearing a coffee pot and cups.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019Op Ing?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am Hop Sing,\u201d the man stated as he returned to standing straight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFa-mi-ee?\u201d Joe yawned as he remembered the word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Family,\u201d replied Hop Sing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you hungry?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cH-ungry\u2026\u201d Joe nodded his head somewhat enthusiastically. \u201cEat?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you\u2019ll eat,\u201d Ben replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing have scrambled eggs and bacon and biscuits with jam. Me bring tray.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll come with you,\u201d Hoss stated as he tried to let go of Joe so he could stand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d Joe yelled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back, Shortshanks\u2026 I\u2019m just gonna help Hop Sing brin\u2019 up some grub, somethin\u2019 for us to eat,\u201d Hoss corrected himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe back?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. Joe cautiously let go.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Adam called. \u201cThere\u2019s a small matter that I think I should help Joe tend to while Hoss helps Hop Sing.\u201d Adam tilted his head twice, hoping he\u2019d understand they should probably get a chamber pot for Joe to use.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get one,\u201d Ben stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stepped back into the room once his son had taken care of his personal needs; he accepted that right now it was more important for Adam to remain with his brother and so Ben removed the chamber pot in order to dispose of the contents.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon returning to Joe\u2019s room, Ben helped settle Joe back under the covers and waited for breakfast, which Hop Sing and Hoss carried several trays into the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Breakfast was eaten silently and the older Cartwrights felt quite awkward, not knowing what to talk about; but they did watch as Joe picked up the eggs and bacon with his hands and shoved them into his mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben refrained from correcting his son\u2019s eating habits, especially after seeing Adam\u2019s expression in warning Ben not to go there, not yet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss was the only one who seemed close to normal, he picked up a biscuit and plopped a spoonful of strawberry jam on it and handed it to his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTry this,\u201d Hoss suggested. \u201cHop Sing made the jam fresh last month. Personally, I think this is his best batch yet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took the biscuit in his hand, lifted it to his nose to smell. Lowering it slightly, he stuck out his tongue to taste, before cramming as much of the biscuit into his mouth as he could. After several attempts to swallow, Joe accepted the glass of milk that Adam held out for him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood?\u201d Hoss asked, pleased at his brother\u2019s appetite.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood?\u201d Joe mimicked and nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

With an atypical buoyancy to his walk, Charlie approached the front door to the main ranch house and waited after knocking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Charlie, come in,\u201d greeted Hop Sing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was wondering if Mr. Cartwright was available to give first orders this morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI go see. He and family upstairs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie looked up as he heard his employer call his name and bid him good morning from the top of the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen,\u201d Charlie greeted. \u201cI didn\u2019t know if you wanted to go over first orders this morning\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, but first\u2026\u201d Ben calmly walked down the steps and motioned for his foreman to take a seat on the settee, he sat down, but forward in the blue chair. \u201cCharlie, I need to talk to you about Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s alright, ain\u2019t he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn time\u2026 I wanted to thank you for offering to send for Paul last night\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt weren\u2019t nothing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think it was\u2026 Charlie, Joe was crying your name\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard him. I\u2019m sorry about last night, I heard him screaming for me but\u2026 it\u2019s like I was rooted in place. I couldn\u2019t move. My mind flashed back to that day.\u201d Charlie\u2019s tone of voice conveyed his guilt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot surprising\u2026 But I think he woke to a nightmare of that day too\u2026 And that\u2019s what set him to run. He woke again this morning, crying your name\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry boss,\u201d Charlie quietly stated, not knowing anything else to say.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 I didn\u2019t tell you this to make you feel sorry\u2026 But to ask you a favor\u2026 I think it would do Joe some good to see you\u2026 that you\u2019re okay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t need to ask twice\u2026 if it\u2019ll help the boy, I\u2019m all for seeing the little scamp,\u201d Charlie smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, but I\u2019m not exactly sure how Joe will react upon seeing you. I wanted to prepare you in case he gets\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cScared?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d be happy to say good morning to him and I\u2019ll accept whatever happens and not be upset by him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stood and titled his head towards the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you have a visitor\u2026 someone would like to see you.\u201d Ben entered the room, motioning for Charlie to come.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cChaw-lee,\u201d Joe whispered after looking at the man until he remembered. \u201cMe run.\u201d Tears fell from Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey there, Little Joe,\u201d Charlie called as he walked to the bed, sat down, wrapped his arms around the boy, and patted his back. \u201cI know you did as I said.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou urt,\u201d Joe shivered at the memory of Charlie falling with an arrow protruding from his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was, but that ol\u2019 arrow and the knock on my head didn\u2019t hurt me nearly as much as finding out that they\u2019d taken you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou betta?\u201d Joe asked as he pushed back and looked up to the man\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoc Martin patched me up. It aches in the cold weather and when your Pa makes me work too hard.\u201d The man smiled. \u201cBut when your brother told me last night you were home\u2026 That was better than any medicine the doctor could have given me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou good,\u201d Joe smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m good, now that you\u2019re home. Looks to me like we need to fatten you up\u2026 Can\u2019t have my best hand being puny.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPu-nee?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing but skin and bones, no muscles.\u201d Charlie poked Joe in the ribs and then squeezed the boy\u2019s upper arm as he spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo pu-nee.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot with your family and Hop Sing to look after ya.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie looked to the family, his eyes settling on Ben, who nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cListen, I need to get back to work, but I wanted to say good morning to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood mor-ning to you,\u201d Joe mimicked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, kid,\u201d Charlie grinned. He stood from the bed, Joe still holding on to his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I have work to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slowly get go of the man\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be downstairs in a few minutes to go over the schedule with you,\u201d stated Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Boss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie nodded to each man and left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

With a very fully belly and an eventful morning behind him, Joe\u2019s eyes drifted closed. Each time he fought to keep them open, his head bobbed up with each time he snapped open his eyes, only to have his head tilt forward as his eyes closed once more. Eventually, his eyes closed and his breathing evened out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019s asleep, boys,\u201d Ben stated. \u201cLet\u2019s lay him back down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing entered the room and set the tray with the coffee pot on the desk and watched the family tend to their youngest. As they settled back, Hop Sing spoke, \u201cI bring more coffee.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Hop Sing,\u201d Adam stated as he held out his cup for Hop Sing to fill.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe eat good?\u201d Hop Sing asked as he filled the other cups.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe nearly ate as much as me,\u201d Hoss replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood boy, he need good food.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With that, the Oriental man left the family alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I don\u2019t get it\u2026\u201d Hoss stated after sipping the refreshed brew.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Ben asked curiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen he was fighting me\u2026 last night and this mornin\u2019\u2026 He said Charlie just as clear as you and me. He also said Pa\u2026 But when Adam was askin\u2019 him who lived at home\u2026 He couldn\u2019t say \u2018home\u2019 nor could he say our names right. How come?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cLord I don\u2019t know.\u201d Ben\u2019s head moved back and forth in regret. \u201cI\u2019ll be back in a few minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben left the room to go downstairs to meet with Charlie.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa?\u201d Little Joe called as he attempted to match his father stride for stride as they crossed the yard from the barn to the house. \u201cWhen\u2019s Adam gonna come home?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot for some time yet, son. He\u2019s only been gone a month.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d he haveta leave?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe wanted to learn, to further his education.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCouldn\u2019t he do it here with Hoss?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stopped and took a deep breath, bending over he picked up his son and carried the five-year old to the table and chairs that sat on the deck on the opposite side of the wall from his office area in the great room. With his son on his lap, Ben wrapped his arms around the boy\u2019s shoulders and gave him a hug.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, the school in Mormon Station can\u2019t teach Adam the kind of information that he desires to learn.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why\u2019s Hoss goin\u2019 ta school if they can\u2019t teach?\u201d Joe innocently asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe teachers here are good for young boys like Hoss and for you this fall,\u201d Ben explained. \u201cBut Adam\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s because he\u2019s old?\u201d Joe piped in.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot because he\u2019s old, but because he wants to learn about how to build things. The school Hoss is going to is a good school to teach young boys and girls\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGirls, ya mean Hoss goes to school with girls? Yuck!\u201d Joe stated. \u201cThey don\u2019t wanna do nothin\u2019 but dress up their dolls and kiss ya.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Ben refrained from laughing and decided to continue his statement, \u201cthey\u2019ll teach you your alphabet\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know that already\u2026 Momma taught it to me\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s statement started out so proud, but then his voice quieted and his posture slumped, \u201cbefore she went away.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019m so proud of you knowing your alphabet. At school your teacher will teach you how to use those letters to spell words. He\u2019ll also teach you arithmetic, math\u2026 How to add and subtract, and in time, like Hoss is learning now, you\u2019ll learn how to multiply.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh that\u2019s easy,\u201d Joe boasted.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think multiplication is easy?\u201d Ben asked, surprised his young son would think this.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Looking his father in the eye, Joe said, \u201cI don\u2019t know about that mul-ti-pa-clay-shun, but all ya gotta do is turn a bull loose with the heifers; that\u2019s how you multiply.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

With those words in mind, Ben realized they needed to be more careful of discussing certain aspects of ranching when his young son was nearby.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe snuggled under the covers while happy memories played in his dreams. He relished the warmth of the blankets surrounding him like a cocoon.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe seems to be havin\u2019 pleasant dreams,\u201d Hoss stated as he and Adam returned to the room after taking care of the morning chores in the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat he does,\u201d Ben smiled. \u201cI only hope they\u2019ll continue.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d Adam interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI fear this morning\u2019s nightmare is only the first of many. Adam, do you think Gabe\u2019s father would be able to help us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, he\u2019s all the way back in Boston,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe Doc Martin knows some fancy doctors closer who could help us\u2026\u201d suggested Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can ask him the next time he\u2019s here,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The low voices quietly talking in his room lulled Joe into a deeper sleep; various memories swirled around tantalizing him, but never fully coalescing before they retreated to allow another to come to the forefront. The scenes came and went until one finally came into focus.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Joe,\u201d Ben answered, sitting at his desk, his head still bent over the journal where he was logging in the latest receipts for supplies.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid Charlie talk to ya?\u201d ten-year old Joe asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie and I talk all the time.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut did he talk to ya about me?\u201d Joe queried.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stopped writing and looked up. \u201cDid you do something wrong that Charlie should talk to me about?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Joe\u2019s voice squealed up in pitch. \u201cI ain\u2019t been in no more trouble since that note from my teacher.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s good to know, Joseph,\u201d Ben answered, wondering how long he could keep secret the fact that he and Charlie had spoke.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was wondering\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What were you wondering?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m growing up now\u2026 And Star is getting up there in age,\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, for the time being, Star is the perfect horse for getting you back and forth to school and for doing your work, checking the watering holes and such.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, he\u2019s getting slower in his old age Pa\u2026 I\u2019m afraid he might get injured the next time we have to hold the cut. He\u2019s been too good a horse for me to let that happen.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo,\u201d Ben finally set his pen aside and looked to his youngest son. \u201cIs this your way to get me to negotiate for one of those pintos from Winnemucca?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir, I remember our talk that you said you\u2019d talk to the Chief only when I was big enough to handle one of his horses. But I was thinking about Beauty\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBeauty?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s just getting fat standing in his stall and being turned out. I mean, it\u2019s not like he\u2019s an inexperienced horse, he\u2019s already broke\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo you want to ride your brother\u2019s horse?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cChubbs is Hoss horse\u2026 \u2018Sides no one\u2019s riding Beauty, Charlie said he thought it would be good for Beauty to have someone riding him; getting him back in shape for this summer. I figured you\u2019d be using him to hold the cut before the cattle drive this fall. Pa, you can\u2019t expect a horse to be at his best when he\u2019s out of shape.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you do have a good point there, son.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI promise, I won\u2019t race him, and I\u2019ll only ride him when you, or Hoss, or Charlie are there to supervise, and I\u2019ll only take him out on the range when one of you are with me, too.\u201d Joe made a motion of crossing his heart and then held his left hand up. \u201cI promise, Pa.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Joe. I accept your explanation, and I\u2019ll give you permission, BUT\u2026\u201d Ben sternly looked his youngest in the eye and held up the index finger on his right hand as if in warning, \u201cYou remember your promises.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, because I don\u2019t want a trip to the woodshed with Charlie if I don\u2019t,\u201d Joe gleefully answered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what about a trip to the woodshed with me?\u201d Ben was curious.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you wallop pretty good, but I\u2019m sure Charlie hits harder.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd how to you figure that?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe ain\u2019t my pa!\u201d Joe laughed.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet out of here, you little scamp! Go see if Charlie needs your help.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe ran outside, to see Charlie waiting for him, Beauty was ready with Joe\u2019s saddle on his back.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 19 \u2013 Scars of the Past<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

As the youngest member of their family continued to sleep, the three older men convinced themselves to venture downstairs for lunch. Hop Sing knew for the time being that none of his charges would be heavily working, so he prepared a lighter-fare for lunch. As they took their seats around the table, the houseman retreated to the kitchen, only to appear a few moments later after hearing the sound of a horse and buggy enter the front yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing opened the door, greeted their visitor and invited Paul Martin into the home, who followed the Oriental man into the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, welcome back,\u201d greeted Ben, standing as his friend came into view. \u201cWould you care to join us for a bite to eat?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Paul answered as he took the seat next to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

The men quietly ate, refraining from discussing the reason for Paul\u2019s visit until after they finished eating.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Hop Sing cleared the dishes from the table and brought a fresh pot of coffee, Paul was the first to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s our patient?\u201d He said \u2018our\u2019 knowing that it would take a well-orchestrated effort among all of them to see Joe through to a full recovery, if it was possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe woke during the night,\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBolted from the house like a scared jackrabbit,\u201d Hoss continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d Paul inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he might have experienced a nightmare, maybe dreamed of the day the marauders struck. We found him trying to force his way into the root cellar. When Pa attempted to approach him, he ran for the woods,\u201d explained Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no\u2026 I was afraid something like that might happen, I just didn\u2019t expect it to be this soon,\u201d Paul replied. \u201cWhat else happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe kicked Adam good in the knee when he caught him\u2026\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy knee momentarily gave out, but I\u2019ve not had any problems since,\u201d Adam offered before Paul could insist on examining him, too. \u201cAnyway, once we were both on the ground, he scrambled away from me and ran straight into\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe,\u201d Hoss finished. \u201cHe cried out a couple a times for Charlie before he whimpered \u2018Pa\u2019 and passed out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHas he awakened since?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe did a little after daybreak,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cHe looked so scared\u2026 as if he was having another nightmare. Adam was able to get through to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid he recognize you?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne by one, he did,\u201d Ben answered, proud that his eldest had been there to help.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd afterwards we were able to get him to eat a decent breakfast,\u201d Hoss added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd?\u201d Paul queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul looked to the eldest son; without words, Adam knew what the physician wanted to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll I did was speak to him like I did out on the trail\u2026 treating him like a wounded animal.\u201d Adam stood from the table and walked over to the fireplace that stood center of the great room. He rested his arm straight out against the stone wall while placing his foot on the raised hearth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss ambled over towards his brother and sat down on the hearth. \u201cI know it ain\u2019t what ya wanted ta do, but like ya told me in the barn\u2026 We gotta show him that we don\u2019t mean him any harm and that we\u2019re here to protect him from his nightmares. We both want ta treat him like a brother, ta hug him, ta rough house with him. It\u2019s almost like we have to treat him like some stranger\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, don\u2019t,\u201d Adam refused to look down at his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDamn it, Adam! Ya done missed out on five years of his growing up! And then we all thought he was dead. Admit it; he isn\u2019t the Little Joe ya remembered.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben slowly rose from the table and approached his sons. He had been so focused on the return of his baby that he hadn\u2019t thoroughly considered the heartache his other sons might be experiencing. He remembered Adam admitting the day before of his desire to return to Boston, but what else was he keeping to himself. The father finally understood how traumatized Adam had been during the ordeal; it was a rarity for him to display emotions, even as a young child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben took a seat in his leather chair, leaned forward, hands clasped as his elbows rested on his knees.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, even if the past two years hadn\u2019t happened as they had\u2026 Joe wouldn\u2019t be the same young boy you remembered. He couldn\u2019t have been, he grew up. Son\u2026 when you left home Joe wasn\u2019t yet six, he was several months shy of his eleventh birthday when\u2026 when he was taken. He\u2019s not the same boy that any of us remember.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I just can\u2019t… You\u2019ve someone more important to worry about than me,\u201d Adam stated allowing his head to fall backwards on his neck in an effort to prevent the tears that threatened to well in his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have three sons to worry about, and I\u2019m thankful that all three are under this roof. I won\u2019t have one son belittle his own feelings for the sake of another, if you need to talk, we\u2019ll talk. Right now, our young man is still asleep upstairs, so allow this father to fret about you for a few moments\u2026 if that\u2019s alright with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d Paul stated as he left the table. \u201cYour father is correct. All of you will need to talk this through, get your emotions and feelings out in the open.\u201d Paul took a seat on the settee, followed by Hoss. \u201cRight now, Joe is the focus, but not to the exclusion of dealing with your emotions.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGabe told me pretty much the same thing, he used the example of the steam engine we tried to build during our second year,\u201d Adam admitted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Hoss remembered the letter they had received from Adam after the explosion.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss good-naturedly spoke up, \u201cI\u2019m happy he\u2019s home\u2026\u201d But then he allowed his shoulders to slump, showing his own distress, \u201cBut\u2026 I just want him back to the way he was before.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know that he\u2019ll ever be the way he was before. Joe\u2019s\u2026\u201d Paul looked carefully from one man to the next; including Hop Sing who had stopped by the sideboard in the great room. \u201cListen, last night I told you he was suffering from malnutrition and exhaustion and he\u2019s suffered some long-term abuse\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do ya mean?\u201d Hoss inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking to the elder Cartwright, \u201cBen, it\u2019s not going to be easy for you, or for that matter Hoss or Hop Sing\u2026\u201d Paul hesitated as he finally ended up looking to the family caretaker.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Adam no let me help last night\u2026\u201d Hop Sing stated, trying to understand what the physician meant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere are bruises from him being beaten, which could be attributed to a normal pre-teen boy getting into fights with other boys in his age group if he had been home, but I think these bruises were deliberate.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa mean, bullyin\u2019?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBullying is a very apt description for what could have happened, from what I saw yesterday, but this goes beyond bullying by boys his own age or even a little older. There\u2019s also\u2026\u201d the physician looked to Adam to see if he knew a better way to say what needed said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what Paul is trying to protect you from knowing is that he\u2019s been whipped, and not just a tanning. Some welts are still healing and others are\u2026 old\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShortshanks\u2026\u201d Hoss whispered in guilt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul continued, \u201cHis back isn\u2019t pretty, and I\u2019m sure the whippings probably extended down to his buttocks and the back of his thighs\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhipped\u2026 I need to see,\u201d Ben emboldened for the first time since he sat down next to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t do this to yourself, Ben,\u201d Paul offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s my son. If I\u2019m to help him adjust to being home, I need to see what they did to him. I need to know\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Joe yelled, rolling backwards off the bed in an effort to get away from the men in the room upon Ben stating the doctor wanted to examine him again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Ben\u2019s voice was firm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d he stated more calmly, but no less defiant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Doctor Martin just wants to examine you again, to make sure you\u2019re okay,\u201d Adam explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo poke, no prod, me fine!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Doctor Martin and Ben both smiled at seeing some of the Little Joe they fondly remembered showing himself. They remembered how much Joe hated to be examined unless he had really hurt himself, and even then, he\u2019d protest that he was fine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, let Doctor Martin examine you,\u201d Ben stated as he approached his youngest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head, his eyes angry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, let me,\u201d Paul suggested as he gently restrained the father from nearing his son. \u201cJoseph, what if I promise not to poke or prod you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy cocked his head sideways.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRemember yesterday, at my home\u2026\u201d Paul removed his stethoscope from his black bag and revealed it to the boy. \u201cI placed this upon your chest and your back. All I did was listen to your heart and your lungs, would you let me do this again?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I\u2019ll be right here,\u201d Adam offered as he took a seat on his brother\u2019s bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo go bar-ber shop?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo barber shop, I\u2019ll sit right here next to you if that\u2019s what you want.\u201d Adam patted the edge of the bed, hoping to encourage his brother to sit down next to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

With wary eyes, Joe approached his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you take off your nightshirt,\u201d suggested Adam as he reached for the hem.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d Joe screamed, louder than before.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Shortshanks, why won\u2019t ya take off your nightshirt?\u201d queried Hoss, trying to lighten the mood and calm his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe fine!\u201d Joe demanded, hands fisted, arms crossed as if hugging himself; conscious about what lay hidden beneath the garment he wore.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy God, Joe\u2026\u201d Paul had proclaimed the day before as the boy stood beside the examination table and removed his shirt. \u201cThese bruises\u2026\u201d Embarrassed, Joe turned from the physician who gasped louder when he saw the boy\u2019s back, \u201cYou\u2019ve been whipped\u2026\u201d His fingertips lightly traced one of the welts.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe\u2026 bad,\u201d Joe whispered as he lowered his head and resisted handing his shirt to the physician by wrapping it in his hands.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Doctor Martin carefully placed a hand upon the boy\u2019s shoulder and turned him around. Paul leaned forward and cupped his hand beneath the boy\u2019s chin to lift his face; tears welled in the boy\u2019s eyes.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, no child deserves to be whipped, not like that.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, bad,\u201d the boy whispered again.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou could never be bad enough to warrant that kind of abuse.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Closing his eyes, Joe shrugged his shoulders indicating he didn\u2019t understand what the physician was saying.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Though he didn\u2019t exactly understand the words the man had said, he understood the tone in which he spoke and how much it had hurt the man to see his body. And now\u2026 his father was in the room and would be hurt even more.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 20 \u2013 Striving for Normalcy<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe allowed Adam to help remove his nightshirt; tears fell down the boy\u2019s face upon hearing his father and his middle brother gasp. Hoss laid a hand upon his father\u2019s shoulder, offering encouragement. Adam pulled Joe to his lap hoping the movement would offer comfort to the boy, letting him know that they still loved him. In time, emotions and exhaustion claimed the boy once again in sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

After examining Joe and dealing with the boy\u2019s emotions over the other members of his family seeing his scars, Doctor Martin suggested they leave the sleeping boy\u2019s room. Downstairs, in the great room, he explained to the family how to deal with Joe\u2019s injuries as well as suggestions that they get him to talk, but not to push him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Before bidding goodbye, he had one final discussion with the family surrounding Joe, \u201cI don\u2019t see why he can\u2019t get up if he wants to. I\u2019m happy with the way he\u2019s been falling asleep, it\u2019s his body\u2019s natural reaction to healing, now that he feels safe. As for schooling…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI plan to tutor him,\u201d Adam stated, his eyes dared the physician to challenge him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think that would be for the best. I can order some additional school books on your behalf from friends of mine in San Francisco; I can\u2019t request to borrow any school book from Mr. Brandenberg, the school teacher,\u201d Paul clarified, not knowing if Ben or Adam had kept up with the change of staff at the school, \u201cor order them through the general store since you don\u2019t want anyone in town to know Joe\u2019s home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Paul,\u201d offered Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs for chores, I\u2019m sure there are some light duty chores he can do around the house, chopping kindling for starting fires, but no chopping wood yet. He can help clean stalls and feed the horses as well as Hop Sing\u2019s chickens.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe help in garden?\u201d the cook asked as he stood aside from the family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see why not\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about riding?\u201d Hoss asked, remembering how his brother loved to ride.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShort trips, nothing strenuous or of any lengthy duration,\u201d Paul advised. \u201cMaybe trips to show him the land around the main house here, but wait a week or so until you take him any farther.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about as far as the breaking corrals?\u201d Adam inquired, knowing that for the next few weeks he would need to be working with the men to fulfill a contract for the army. A contract that they desperately needed, and since he had been gone for a month he had no idea how close to meeting the terms the hands were.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, getting him acclimated to life on the ranch in general will be a good thing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI cain\u2019t wait to ride around with him,\u201d Hoss stated, rubbing his hands together in anticipation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, Adam, Hoss, if you need any other help\u2026 I do have colleagues in Sacramento who might be willing to come.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, thank you for the offer; however, for right now\u2026 You\u2019ve given us some guidelines to follow, but I think this family needs some time together in order to finish healing\u2026\u201d Ben proffered his hand to the physician and escorted him to his buggy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand. Just send for me if you need anything.\u201d Paul picked up his hat and his Gladstone bag and left the residence.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, what first?\u201d Hoss asked as he slipped his hands into his front pockets upon re-entering the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait for him to wake up. Maybe\u2026 Adam, he\u2019s had better reactions with you helping him, would you mind assisting him to bathe before supper? I think, if he\u2019s up to it, I\u2019d like to have all three of my sons at the supper table tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think I can manage that\u2026 If not, I\u2019ll holler for Hoss to come help me restrain him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you cain\u2019t restrain him as puny as he is\u2026 We need to talk to Hop Sing about beefing you up too,\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben enjoyed the camaraderie his sons shared; it had been missing for far too long. He held onto this as a sign that their lives would return to normal.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

A freshly bathed Joe sat at the table, his long hair tied with a string at the nape of his neck. Adam escorted him into the dining room and indicated he should sit in the chair to the right of their Pa. Hoss took a seat across from him, while Adam sat at the end of the table, opposite their father. The boy watched as a platter of roast beef and bowls containing mashed potatoes and string beans were set on the checked cloth. The aromas were enticing, but at the same time strange yet vaguely familiar. Watching as the men around him scooped food from a bowl before passing it on; he tried his best to mimic his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sitting there and watching, he began to remember how to use the fork and knife that lay next to his plate, but his movements were somewhat awkward; almost as if he was a young child learning to use the utensils for the first time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben casually watched his youngest eat, and was pleased to see the boy actually eating.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Joe, try this,\u201d Hoss spoke as he handed a biscuit split open and slathered with butter and honey. Joe smiled as he remembered the taste.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing returned to the dining room to remove the dirty dishes, he smiled at the sight of Joe\u2019s empty plate. \u201cGood boy, eat all food. No non-sense push food around.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Hop Sing, you got any chocolate cake tonight?\u201d Hoss called in eager anticipation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoy not ready for rich sweets. You want sweets, eat apple,\u201d Hop Sing chided.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAw Hop Sing, I was lookin\u2019 forward to a chocolate cake or\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo! Not good for boy.\u201d Hop Sing curtly answered and nodded his head for emphasis.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe sorry,\u201d Joe whispered and lowered his head. He vaguely remembered chocolate cake and knew he was to blame for his brother not getting any.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben tried to reassure his son, \u201cJoe, it\u2019s not your fault. We all heard what Doctor Martin said. I\u2019m pleased that you were able to eat supper with us tonight. And we\u2019ll all be eating desserts in time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo eat sand,\u201d Joe answered and scrunched his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Adam calmly spoke before anyone else, \u201cdesserts are sweets we eat. Sand is a desert.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo eat desert, eat desserts?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d Adam answered and grinned as he lifted his coffee cup to his lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpeaking of lessons,\u201d Ben spoke assuredly to claim all three sons\u2019 attention. Before continuing, he thought on how to say what needed to be said. It was difficult to determine based on the minimal discussions they\u2019d had earlier, how much knowledge had his son retained, \u201cJoe, Doctor Martin said Adam should continue your schooling\u2026 working with you in the reader\u2026 the book.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cM-guff-ee,\u201d Joe stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, your McGuffy reader. Did you like reading with Adam on your way home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scowled slightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll but that last night, right buddy?\u201d Adam encouraged.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, then why don\u2019t the two of you plan to spend a little time tonight working through your reader,\u201d Ben suggested, but his look to Adam emphasized a little time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked to his oldest brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA little time, Joe. Don\u2019t worry,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked back to Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn the morning, I need Adam to do some work, so how about Hoss,\u201d Ben looked to his middle son, \u201cworking with you out in the barn. Showing you the horses,\u201d Joe smiled, \u201cand the work that needs to be done.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled and nodded, \u201cMe like horses, me work.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was thrilled to remember not to use the word chores. Before Joe disappeared, he hadn\u2019t been too keen to do a job if it was considered a chore, but if Ben phrased it as a job or work, Joe immediately performed the task.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The family retired to the great room, a small fire burned in the massive fireplace that was the focal point of the room. As the brothers sat down on the settee, Adam decided to go back to the basics with Joe, from McGuffy\u2019s Eclectic First Reader. He knew he didn\u2019t want his brother to throw another temper tantrum in front of their father; it had been hard enough earlier in the day when Paul had been there. And Adam didn\u2019t want to stress his brother as he had the night before their arrival, so he back tracked; hoping to bolster the boy\u2019s confidence in his schooling.<\/span><\/p>\n

Side by side the brothers sat as Adam over saw Joe and worked through the first few lessons in the book. Adam was pleased to see how Joe seemed more comfortable this time as they read. Adam would place his finger below each word as he spoke. Joe would repeat Adam\u2019s words in the sentences. Once they were through each lesson, Adam encouraged Joe to go back to the beginning to read aloud on his own, with only a little prompting from his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Adam said as they finished about ten pages in the reader, \u201cYou did a good job tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe good,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour next lesson will be to learn how to properly phrase sentences when you speak,\u201d Adam suggested as he closed the reader. \u201cInstead of \u2018me good\u2019, you should say, \u2018I did well\u2019 or \u2018I did a good job\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI did a good job,\u201d Joe stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you did a good job,\u201d Adam replied and wrapped an arm around his brother\u2019s shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked a little perplexed, deep in concentration, as he sat next to his brother. It was so hard for him, what he thought he remembered from before, to now being allowed to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s troublin\u2019 ya, Shortshanks?\u201d Hoss asked as he looked up from working on rebraiding a string cinch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026\u201d Joe frowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake your time, Joe,\u201d Ben added as he set aside the Territorial Enterprise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026 mist\u2026 you\u2026\u201d Joe answered and shook his head, feeling that what he\u2019d said wasn\u2019t right.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like my help?\u201d Adam offered. When Joe looked up to him and nodded, Adam continued, \u201cI think what you meant to say was, \u2018I missed you\u2019, you were close and we know what you meant to say, because we felt the same way. We missed you.\u201d Adam hugged his brother closer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou missed I\u2026 me?\u201d Joe rephrased when the sentence didn\u2019t sound right.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cVery good,\u201d Adam answered. \u201cAnd yes, we did miss you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A deep yawn escaped Joe before he could prevent it, causing Ben to call the night to an end.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, I think it might be best for Joe to go to bed. He\u2019s had a long day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe\u2026\u201d Joe started but corrected, \u201cI sleeped\u2026\u201d he paused, knowing that wasn\u2019t right, but couldn\u2019t think of the word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSlept,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI slept\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEarlier\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI slept earlier,\u201d Joe confidently stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you did, but Doctor Martin said that sleeping was part of the healing process for your body; to get well from not eating.\u201d Ben refrained from mentioning the rest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss laughed, as Joe rubbed his stomach and slowly said, \u201cI am full.\u201d His body chose that moment to rumble as part of the digestion process.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I think Pa is right. And to leave the room, we ask for permission, we ask if we can leave the room. Do you remember how to ask?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Joe grew confident in his father\u2019s familiar; he also remembered from before and took his words from what Adam had said. \u201cCan I\u2026 leave\u2026 the room?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you done told Joe wrong,\u201d Hoss teased. \u201cIt\u2019s not can, it\u2019s may.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I leave the room?\u201d Joe corrected himself and smiled at the frown Adam laughingly revealed to their middle brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you may leave the room, if you go to bed, a growing boy needs his sleep,\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I leave the room\u2026 to\u2026 go to sleep?\u201d Joe asked one more time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you have my permission to leave the room to go to sleep,\u201d Ben answered, pleased with the progress Joe was making with his language skills.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood\u2026 night\u2026 Pa. Good..night, Hoss. Goodnight, Adam,\u201d Joe stated as he stood and walked to the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGoodnight, son.\u201d \u201cGoodnight, Shortshanks.\u201d and \u201cGoodnight, Buddy.\u201d chorused from the others.<\/span><\/p>\n

From the first step, Joe took that moment to reveal a little of the old Little Joe, \u201cGOODNIGHT, HOP SING!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, we do not yell in the house,\u201d Ben sternly admonished.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe quickly ran up the stairs; those below faintly heard his bedroom door close.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt just slipped out,\u201d Ben sheepishly explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think his yellin\u2019 goodnight to Hop Sing just slipped out, too. Just like before\u2026 when he was in a good mood,\u201d Hoss laughed, his head moving side to side in amusement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Pa got after him for that, too,\u201d Adam sighed, remember his precollege days.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

If Joe had to admit to himself, his father\u2019s words had hurt him; his feelings of being home\u2026 of belonging to a family. But they were only words, words filled with love and compassion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Words\u2026\u2019 Joe undressed as he prepared to go to bed; he slipped on the nightshirt that Hop Sing had placed upon his bed. He knew that Adam was right, he did need to learn how to speak properly again, how to talk to people. As he climbed into bed and pulled the covers over his shoulders he tried to think of his family, and things they had done together. As sleep claimed him, his dreams were filled with visions of him laughing, and running, and working with his family. He involuntarily shivered when his dreams included scenes from when he attended school; his teacher giving instructions and correcting improper use of the English language. His subconscious listened intently.<\/span><\/p>\n

So deep in his dreams was the boy that he didn\u2019t stir when his family members entered his room and kissed him upon his brow.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe woke in the morning to find his room empty of people. He snuggled deeper into the comfort of the blankets and softness of the bed. He thought of the men who had been with him the day before. He committed to memory the way he felt safe as he called each one by name. He smiled at the memory of their sitting together in front of the fire in the big room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning!\u201d Ben called cheerfully as he brought a tray into the room. \u201cAre you hungry?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head, his hair falling over his shining eyes at seeing his father enter the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI brought you breakfast. We decided to let you sleep in a little this morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben watched the expression on his son\u2019s face as he set the tray to the boy\u2019s lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEat all?\u201d Joe inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t, Hop Sing would threaten us with going back to China,\u201d Ben teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo go, fa-mi-lee here,\u201d Joe answered, reaching for a fork.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben tisk\u2019d as Joe\u2019s hair kept falling into his face as he ate. The unamused father reached forward and picked at Joe\u2019s hair. \u201cWe need to get this trimmed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up and cocked his head. Ben made a cutting motion with his fingers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike long\u2026\u201d Joe answered as he pushed away an almost empty bowls of scrambled eggs. His face indicating he was full. After drinking most of his glass of milk, he licked his lips to erase the milk mustache that adorned his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot this long, it\u2019s worse than a riverboat gambler\u2026\u201d Ben teased before he stood up to leave the room. A few minutes later he returned with scissors and a towel.<\/span><\/p>\n

With the towel draped around his neck, Joe sat in a chair and scowled as Ben trimmed his hair to a more reasonable length.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t need to worry; I haven\u2019t forgotten how to cut a young boy\u2019s hair. Adam always enjoyed the time we spent together while I trimmed his hair when we were traveling. I couldn\u2019t always afford to go to the barbershop, so I did what I could. Once Hoss\u2019 hair needed trimmed, well\u2026 the three of us enjoyed sitting around talking while I cut their hair. Though you hair, is so much thicker\u2026\u201d Ben kept selecting smaller portions of hair to cut.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo want cut,\u201d Joe pouted with his arms crossed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother didn\u2019t want your hair cut too short, either. Guess you get that honestly. But seriously Joe, your hair is way too long that I don\u2019t even think your mother would have approved. I\u2019ll leave it longer than I normally would like, but it just won\u2019t do having your hair past your shoulders.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben continued to clip away as strand after strand fell to the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere, that looks much better,\u201d Ben stood back and admired his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Pa!\u201d Hoss called from the hallway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn here, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

How\u2019s\u2026\u201d Hoss couldn\u2019t stop the laugh that erupted from deep within, seeing Joe sitting there, frowning and his hair cut short. \u201cWho done scalped ya, brother?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!\u201d Ben reprimanded. \u201cThat is not funny.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa,\u201d Hoss offered in good humility.<\/span><\/p>\n

Even so, Hoss struggled to keep the humorous look from his face as Joe reached up and felt the distance between his ears and his hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks good there, little brother, real good. Pa, Adam said he\u2019ll have the horses saddled shortly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben saw an uncertain look in Joe\u2019s eyes as he turned to look towards the men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Adam and I have to see about some timber to fulfill a contract; we have to go to the logging site out on the ranch. And while we\u2019re gone, I\u2019d like for you to work with Hoss this morning. So\u2026 why don\u2019t you get up and dressed, and I\u2019ll see you downstairs in a few minutes. Okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben collected the scissors and the towel and attempted to clean up all the hair clippings before leaving the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was uncertain. He was home, with family, but now they were leaving him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Shortshanks, what clothes do ya wanta wear this morning? We\u2019re gonna be working in the barn.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

After saying goodbye, Adam and Ben rode away from the yard leaving Hoss and Joe alone together for the first time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I could have stayed home and helped with Joe,\u201d Adam stated as they rode away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I thank you for bringing Joe home, and he seems to respond well to you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe needs to learn to trust someone other than just you. And I don\u2019t believe it is in your best interest to devote all your time to your brother, either. You need time for you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you mean you want me to be able to work out on the ranch?\u201d Adam asked sarcastically, but with a grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf need be\u2026 It\u2019s sort of like before you went off to Harvard, it seemed like Joe wanted to tag along with you everywhere\u2026 And you got pretty defensive at times.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rode along in thoughtful silence, and after a few minutes he quietly stated, \u201cThanks, Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust remember what Paul said, we need to talk, and I believe that means we also need time alone to do what we want and need to do.\u201d Ben raised his eyebrows in fatherly mischief.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome along, Joe,\u201d Hoss called as he stopped beside the sideboard to pull his hat from the pegs beside the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe tried hard to remember how to speak, and asked, \u201cWe\u2026 where do we go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe, little brother, are goin\u2019 to the barn. I fed the horses before we ate breakfast, now the real work begins. We\u2019re gonna turn them out and then we\u2019re gonna clean their stalls and add fresh beddin\u2019, and dump and clean their water buckets before we refill them.\u201d Hoss talked jovially as he pulled his younger brother close, draped his arm across the boy\u2019s back, and rested his hand on the slim shoulder, before maneuvering the boy out the door. \u201cThen we\u2019re gonna pick the manure out of the corral, gotta keep it clean, too. We need to throw down some hay bales and then stack \u2018em and last but not least, we need to make a list of the feed that\u2019s runnin\u2019 low. Cain\u2019t run out of food for the horses, no siree, we cain\u2019t do that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning Hoss, Little Joe,\u201d Charlie greeted as he stopped in front of the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMornin\u2019 Charlie,\u201d Hoss greeted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning Charlie,\u201d Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSay, it\u2019s good to see you up and about,\u201d Charlie stated as he waited the boys\u2019 approach. \u201cI like the haircut\u2026 You look more like the Joe I remembered. So, what do you have planned today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe gonna work in barn,\u201d Joe eagerly stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, don\u2019t let this big fella here work you too hard. If\u2019n he does, you just send for me. He needs to pull his own weight,\u201d Charlie teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww Charlie, you know I wouldn\u2019t pawn anything off on Little Joe, here,\u201d Hoss gaffed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust make sure you don\u2019t.\u201d Charlie gave Hoss the eye and smiled before he picked up the reins and mounted his horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon entering the barn, Hoss escorted Joe to the stall where Chubbs was contentedly munching his hay. \u201cThis here is Chubbs, I\u2019ve had him since\u2026 Well I\u2019ve had him for a long time. He\u2019s big, but he\u2019s gotta be to haul me around.\u201d The big man laughed. He left his brother standing at the stall as he went to grab a lead rope.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he turned around, it appeared that Joe was having a one on one conversation with the horse, even though his mouth never moved. The horse flicked its ears as if listening to instructions.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe turn them out?\u201d Joe asked as he sensed the large man approach.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, clip this on like this,\u201d Hoss demonstrated clipping the lead rope to the halter, \u201cand take him out that door,\u201d he pointed to the door they had entered through, \u201cand turn him loose in the corral. Make sure you close the gate behind him so he don\u2019t get loose.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss kept an eye on his brother to ensure he had properly understood what to do. Even if he didn\u2019t understand all the words, Hoss hoped he could figure out the intention.<\/span><\/p>\n

A few moments later, Joe returned to the barn and proceeded to the pinto\u2019s stall, followed by Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRight fine lookin\u2019 horse Adam bought for ya,\u201d Hoss complimented. \u201cWhat\u2019s his name?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe no have name,\u201d Joe stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s alright. It takes time to figure out a fittin\u2019 name for a horse, especially if he\u2019s gonna be your buddy. Why don\u2019t you turn him out with Chubbs, they were out together yesterday and didn\u2019t cause any trouble so I think they\u2019ll be good friends.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood friends?\u201d Joe looked to Hoss. The phrase brought back a memory and he stood there until Hoss nudged him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, get a move on\u2026 take your horse outside, we don\u2019t have time to daydream all day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, we were\u2026 were we\u2026\u201d Joe became flustered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWere we what, Little Joe?\u201d Hoss asked as he reached for two pitch forks from the wall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood friends?\u201d Joe asked tentatively.<\/span><\/p>\n

With pitch forks in hand, Hoss turned around and looked at his brother. The boy looked smaller that he should have, so unsure of himself, struggling to fit in to a life he had not been a part of for two years.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe were good friends, Joe. Best Friends, you got me into so much trouble with Pa\u2026\u201d Hoss ruefully remembered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, s\u2026 I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Joe cast his head down as he left the barn leading his pinto.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?!\u201d Hoss called after him. From the doorway he watched his sibling move with slumped shoulders. As the boy returned to the barn, he shuffled his feet along the ground. Hoss blocked him for going any farther.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you got me into trouble, and to be honest I\u2019d say I let you get me into trouble. But I\u2026 we had fun doin\u2019 what we did. I know I shoulda been the big brother, like Adam, and said no\u2026 But\u2026 gol darnit Joe, the way you laughed and lived life\u2026 I wanted that.\u201d Lifting his brother\u2019s chin up to look at him, \u201cI hope you understand what I\u2019m gonna say, but\u2026 If you ever get into trouble with Sheriff Biggs, I won\u2019t be able to help bail ya outa jail\u2026 And that\u2019s only gonna be because I\u2019ll be right there next to ya. That\u2019s what best friends do. You\u2019ve got no cause to be sorry for the trouble WE got into, ya hear.\u201d Hoss let Joe see a genuine smile. \u201cNow you gonna help me with these stalls?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI gonna help,\u201d Joe answered as he sniffled back a tear.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Ben had to ride past the breaking corral on their way to the timber stand. They arrived just in time to see one of their long time hands, Dusty Armstrong, get dumped from a horse that continued to kick her heels high and chase the wranglers out of the way as they jumped in to help Dusty get out of danger.<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time they had dismounted and tethered their horses, Dusty was sitting on the top rail, thanking his lucky stars that the pinpoints in his vision were fading.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTough break,\u201d Adam called as he climbed upon the rail to check on their rider as well as to get a look at the mare who stood in the middle of the corral, head held high, snorting her defiance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes we get bucked off,\u201d Dusty replied as he accepted a ladle full of water from one of the hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd when you get bucked off\u2026\u201d Adam hinted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYOU, can get back on. I\u2019ve come off that one twice already, and Jasper\u2019s come off three times.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we should just turn her loose,\u201d Ben suggested after hearing two of his best wranglers had been dumped so many times.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do we stand on meeting the army contract?\u201d Adam asked, deflecting his father\u2019s thoughts, but evaluating the mare.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe contract is due, what\u2026 four weeks from Saturday?\u201d Dusty inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, they\u2019re coming here to take possession.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that gives us a couple of extra days to put some additional training in on the ones we\u2019ve broke so far. We\u2019re only twenty shy of our quota.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTwenty?! That\u2019s not bad, considering the wranglers around,\u201d teased Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho do you think you are, coming here to criticize the work we done,\u201d a new hand scowled as he approached the railing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dusty shook his head in warning to the hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy apologies, I didn\u2019t mean to criticize anything\u2026\u201d Adam offered, give a man rope enough and he\u2019ll hang himself. Adam deliberately didn\u2019t look to his father, he knew the look he wore and what it meant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve busted our butts for the past three weeks getting the thirty head broke. If you think you can do a better job, put your butt in that there saddle. If you think you can ride her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Before he decided on whether to take on the challenge or not, he appraised the mare and what Dusty had said, but still\u2026 Adam thought of putting this hand in his place, \u201cAnd if I do ride her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll give you my month\u2019s salary,\u201d gruffed the hand, thinking the man in black wouldn\u2019t last three bucks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet her in the chute!\u201d Adam yelled as he jumped into the corral and took the chaps Dusty had slipped off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think the boss\u201d the man jerked his thumb over his shoulder towards Dusty, \u201cshould give that order?\u201d the man taunted, knowing that the lead wrangler or the boss was the only one to give an order regarding any horse or what rider would be up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe is\u2026 the boss,\u201d Dusty drolly answered; eager to see this hand taken down a peg or two. It was one thing to be a good rider and be humble about it\u2026 it was something totally different to brag on being a good rider when one was only somewhat above par. But Dusty, and the rest of the men, knew that this Texan was no different than any other man from Texas, live big, brag big, take offense even bigger. They also knew it took time to settle in, find out just exactly how you fit into the various crews, and the man had been trying just a little too hard in the three weeks that he\u2019d been on the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

The man looked to Ben, as if looking for him to dispute Dusty\u2019s words.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRalph, this is my eldest son Adam. I\u2019m sorry you\u2019ve not had a chance to meet him, he\u2019s been out of town for the past month and only returned a few days ago,\u201d Ben confirmed. \u201cAlso, let this be a warning, I expect all my hands to be in the bunkhouse at night during the week, unless they\u2019re riding herd, and not in Virginia City. Friday or Saturday nights are your nights to blow off steam and have a good time. All other times are mine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d Ralph replied. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, but I had something personal I needed to attend to in town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

While Ben was adding the final touches to Ralph\u2019s hanging, Adam settled himself into the saddle, making sure the cinch held the saddle in place as he shifted left then right. Taking the halter rope, he visually measured the length to give the mare her head, but not enough to prohibit him a secure seat and to keep the mare in check. Confident, Adam gave a nod.<\/span><\/p>\n

The chute opened and the mare exploded from within with a powerful thrust forward, impacting stiff legged to the ground before sun fishing, twisting, bucking, kicking her heels high. Her jumps bounded left and right. Adam stuck to the saddle, \u2018spurring\u2019 her on, encouraging her to do her worst or best, as the case would be. No one was sure how much time had elapsed when the mare finally halted in the middle of the corral, head hung low, blowing harshly through her nostrils, flanks heaving.<\/span><\/p>\n

Normally a rider would have insisted the mare move out, establishing his dominance, but Adam refrained as he hopped down from the saddle. This mare was worth a little spirit; he planned to personally see to her training.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood ride son,\u201d Ben called as Adam approached, walking a little gingerly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I write you an IOU?\u201d Ralph asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo in addition to having a big mouth, you also make bets you can\u2019t readily back?\u201d Adam asked, giving the man no quarters for his earlier attitude.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir\u2026 I mean yes sir. I didn\u2019t know who you were. I\u2019m sorry about before,\u201d Ralph explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s no excuse.\u201d Adam chose to speak loud enough for all the men to hear, \u201cOn this ranch we treat everyone with respect. I don\u2019t care who they are or what their job is\u2026 Every job and every man is important to the running of this ranch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam waited for his words to soak in, before he turned to Ralph.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs for your wager, I could ask my father to withhold your wages\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I won\u2019t. Consider this a valuable lesson in economics. You can\u2019t take anything at face value. Know who you\u2019re dealing with\u2026 before you make an ass out of yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, sir. I need the money\u2026 I got a wife and two kids back home,\u201d Ralph humbly answered, his head lowered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s home?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLubbock,\u201d Ralph answered as he looked up to the rancher.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019re you so far from home?\u201d Ben asked, not knowing anything about the man having a family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re good people and you pay wages better than most. \u2018Sides the Cartwright name means something. You respect your workers and people respect you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRalph, for the next couple of weeks, you\u2019re off the job,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee here, I said I was sorry for what I done\u2026 but I can\u2019t be off the job for two weeks; I said I gotta a wife and two kids. They need every dollar I send home!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019d let me finish,\u201d Adam calmly answered, \u201cI don\u2019t like hearing about families being separated. If you want to continue working on this ranch, you\u2019re going to remember today\u2019s lesson and you\u2019re going home to pack your family and bring them here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere would we live? I mean, what I make is barely enough for them as it is, it\u2019s just a rundown shack they live in\u2026 They can\u2019t live in the bunkhouse with me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe have a few cabins for married men. For those with families, a few are positioned closer to town to make it easier for their children to go to school. You\u2019d be responsible for its upkeep in addition to your responsibilities as a working hand. We can discuss specific logistics when you return.\u201d Adam firmly added, \u201cNo family should be separated, not for any reason.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Bidding their wranglers good day, father and son headed on to their ultimate destination.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss noticed that Joe was slowing down and stumbling as he raked the corral; he remembered his father\u2019s warning to keep an eye on his brother and not to overdo it on his first day out since his return.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Joe, I\u2019m gettin\u2019 a little tired a workin\u2019. Why don\u2019t we go inside and see if Hop Sing has some lemonade and cookies. You\u2019ll like eatin\u2019 Hop Sing\u2019s cookies, they\u2019re soft and moist\u2026 they\u2019re real good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe wearily looked up and smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inside the house, Hop Sing carried the platter to the front room and set it upon the low table. \u201cBig brother eat cookies and milk, younger brother eat cookies and milk. Maybe older brother teach younger brother how to dunk cookies.\u201d The housekeeper smiled as Hoss eagerly reached for several cookies and a glass of milk, only to have Joe be a few moments behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fifteen minutes after entering the house, with his milk glass empty and the platter of cookies only containing crumbles, Joe fell asleep on the settee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI watch Lit\u2019le Joe, you finish chores,\u201d Hop Sing stated as he removed the empty glasses and plate from the low table between the settee and hearth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t I get to rest?\u201d Hoss teasingly asked as he hauled himself up from the chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou rest later. Joe need rest now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe did a good job today.\u201d Spreading out the Indian blanket over this brother, Hoss added, \u201cWell, I\u2019ll see you later for lunch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 21 \u2013 One Step Forward, Two Steps Back<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe bolted awake, one hand gripping the cushion of the settee upon which he sat with his other hand clutching the back, he was the only one to hear his silent scream. Raggedly he drew in a breath realizing he was home; it had just been a dream. The crackling of the fire mesmerized the boy as he took deep breaths to settle himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Later that afternoon, Adam invited Joe out to the table on the deck to work on his studies. He noticed how pensive the boy had grown since the he\u2019d said goodbye earlier that morning. Adam set the book on top of the table, but chose to keep it closed. He watched as Joe fidgeted with the pencil that he had picked up from where it had rolled to a stop between one of the crevices.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you this afternoon, Joe?\u201d Adam decided that maybe today\u2019s lessons wouldn\u2019t involve reading, but more to help the boy improve his conversational skills.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged his shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam raised his eyebrows when his brother didn\u2019t answer him in words.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you enjoy working with Hoss in the barn this morning?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged one shoulder and titled his head towards that shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot very talkative, huh? Hoss talked you all out this morning?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d Adam asked as he reached a hand to his brother\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pulled back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you upset that I left you this morning?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked to his brother; confusion and fear were plainly visible on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa explained to you last night that he needed me to work out on the ranch today. I thought you understood that. You can trust Hoss, just as you trust me. He\u2019ll help you remember everything you forgot\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked apprehensively around before he whispered, \u201cNo forgot\u2026\u201d he whispered and warily looked around again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t accept Joe\u2019s countenance at face value. The night before the boy had been eager to learn and to correct his grammar, now\u2026 he wouldn\u2019t readily speak. His actions alarmed Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat didn\u2019t you forget?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head, but Adam realized that his brother was also beginning to breathe faster and shallow as he continued to look around, never settling his eyes on one spot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you were eager to go over your studies on our way home from Mill City and last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe acted as if he didn\u2019t hear his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Reaching for Joe\u2019s shoulder and sensing the tension, Adam firmly asked, \u201cWon\u2019t you tell me what\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe startled and shook his head no. He pushed away his brother\u2019s hand and stood up, knocking his chair backwards. Adam watched the boy run across the yard and into the barn. Slowly he followed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon entering the barn, he heard shuffling and crying from the hayloft; from the cracks between the floorboards bits of hay rained down on the horses in their stalls. Deciding they could use some privacy, even from their own family, Adam pulled the barn doors closed before he climbed the ladder.<\/span><\/p>\n

Again, as if the boy were a scared animal, as if he hadn\u2019t made any headway with his brother in the weeks since he had found him, Adam slowly approached the trembling youth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, no one\u2019s going to hurt you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat in the corner, hidden between bales of hay, his ankles crossed, legs drawn up to his chest with his arms wrapped around them, head to his knees. His head shook left and right, his shoulders rose and fell as he cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam slipped beside his brother and wrapped his arms around him, pleased when the boy didn\u2019t shrug away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you need to tell me what\u2019s wrong. Why are you crying? Are you scared?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With his head still lowered to his knees, Joe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy? Is it someone here? Are you afraid of someone on the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had yet to look up when he shook his head no.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone from before? The wagon train?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A shake of the head was Adam\u2019s answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe town? What of the people in Mill City?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Another shake of the head.<\/span><\/p>\n

With concern and compassion Adam thought on who else could cause this about-face within his brother, he asked, \u201cJoe, are you afraid of someone from the tribe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe tensed and nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy? It\u2019s been three weeks, there\u2019s been no sign that anyone from the tribe was after us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Daring to look up, Joe answered in a faint whisper that Adam almost didn\u2019t hear, \u201cNo speak. Bad boy.\u201d He returned his face to his knees.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe if you don\u2019t want to talk today or work on your lessons, that\u2019s okay.\u201d Adam kept his voice light. \u201cYou\u2019re not a bad boy because of that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As if Joe had not heard his brother he spoke in low voice, \u201cWhipped\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam heard the word, faintly stronger than those spoken before, and was bewildered. He chose to rub his brother\u2019s back and felt the boy flinch, and it dawned on him, the scars.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, were you whipped for speaking?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t\u2026\u201d Adam was aghast even more so at the lash marks that scarred his brother\u2019s backside. \u201cJoe, no one here will harm you for talking. We want you to talk and hopefully to be able to laugh again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe\u2026 I\u2026,\u201d a confused Joe answered. He remembered the night before, being with his family and he remembered his dream from earlier in the day, the reality he had experienced after being taken from the marauders to live with the Indians.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the boy raised his head, Adam watched the tears stream down his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hugging his brother tightly, Adam spoke, \u201cJoe, I promise you\u2026 No one will whip you for talking. We might correct the way you speak or how you say something\u2026 But, outside of books, that is how you or anyone else learns. Baby\u2019s don\u2019t know how to read\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo baby,\u201d Joe stated a little forcefully, but still quiet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you\u2019re not a baby, I\u2019m just using it as an example. Baby\u2019s learn to speak by listening to their parents, their family. You\u2019ve done remarkably\u2026 You\u2019ve done a good job in listening to Pa, Hoss, and myself and trying to correct yourself. It will take time.\u201d Adam relaxed his hold on his brother, and looked at him. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to worry about being whipped for talking. I know I\u2019m going to regret this someday, but we\u2019re all anxious to hear you talking and laughing. Are you ready to study, now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head and said, \u201cNo, please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat would you like to do instead?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRide?\u201d Joe asked inquisitively, he eyes begging his brother to say yes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me go tell Pa. You dry your tears and saddle your pinto. Okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave Joe one last smile before he disappeared down the ladder. After wiping his face, Joe climbed down from the loft. As he saddled his pinto, he remembered those days; the days when he wanted so desperately to go home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Alone he had stood in the middle of the throng of people gathered around the young man with whom he had traveled for several weeks. Those who surrounded them sounded irate towards the man who still gripped him by the upper arm, tightening his grip as he shouted back at those who yelled at him. Without offering him any water or food, he was pushed into a lodge and the flap pulled behind him. A few minutes later the man he had accompanied entered, his tempter still flaring. He shoved Joe to the pallets, indicating that was where he should spend the night.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The following morning, he spied a small group of boys playing in the water and went to meet them in hopes of becoming friends. He wanted so much to make friends, but by the sounds of their voices and their actions he knew they were taunting him. He tried to stand his own ground but they began to beat him, some threw sticks and rocks at him while others took their turns in punching him. It didn\u2019t take much time for him to be knocked forcefully to the muddy bank of the stream. An elder of the tribe grabbed him by the arm and pulled him from the boys; he shouted at the others causing them to flee. Joe was pushed in front of the man and to a different lodge on the outskirts of the tribe.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Wanting to know what was happening; Joe attempted to ask a question and was pushed to the ground. The man pointed and through the man\u2019s angry face he figured out he was to stay put. He did his best to wipe away the mud he felt clinging to his face and plastered in his hair.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

As the man and an older woman exited from behind the animal skin that served as a doorway, he stood and begged for them to explain. For his efforts he received a back-handed slap across the face, knocking him to the ground again. The man shouted at him before pulling him to his feet; Joe felt himself propelled towards the woman. She made a sound of disgust as she looked upon the filthy child who stood in front of her.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Later that night, after hours of collecting wood for her fire, he again tried to talk to the woman. She grabbed him and pushed him over the fallen log and proceeded to take a switch to his back side. By the time she was finished, Joe could only curl up on his side and cry.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Joe jumped and turned around at a hand being placed on his shoulder; without conscious thought he threw a fisted hand at the person standing behind him. In horror he gasped when he heard the \u2018umpf\u2019. He tried to run away, but a firm hand held him and pulled him close. He allowed the tears to fall when he heard, \u201cIt\u2019s okay Joe. I understand, I should have waited until you knew I was here. I didn\u2019t mean to startle you.\u201d A loving hand rubbed circles on his back. \u201cWere you remembering?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam,\u201d Joe sniffled and nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, buddy. You do still want to go for a ride?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With his arms wrapped around his brother\u2019s waist, Joe\u2019s wary eyes looked up; he relaxed when he saw the smile upon his oldest brother\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa and Hoss said they wanted to come, too. Is that okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A wide grin spread upon the youth\u2019s face as he remembered this was what he really wanted — to be home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter 22 \u2013 For the Love of Horses<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Several days had passed and the family settled into a routine surrounding working on the ranch and making sure Joe had someone close by at all times. Late afternoons or early evenings were devoted to Joe\u2019s lessons with Adam. Every day that the two worked on the boy\u2019s studies Adam was impressed with how far Joe was coming with his language skills. But still\u2026 there was always room for improvement.<\/span><\/p>\n

After one particularly difficult study session, Hoss thought to redirect his brother\u2019s attitude away from sulking over Adam\u2019s insistence to paying closer attention to the details. He thought if he could show the boy by example\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Shortshanks,\u201d Hoss called as he pulled out the checkerboard and its pieces. \u201cDo you remember this?\u201d He set the board on the low table and placed the black and red pieces to their starting places.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe picked up a red wooden token and looked at the design on one side and the flat, undecorated opposite side. He looked at the cuts in the pieces, almost as if to help hold them stacked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Ben sat forward in his burgundy leather chair and addressed his youngest. \u201cDo you remember the design on that piece?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMoney?\u201d Joe asked, but shook his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s called a checker piece. It\u2019s a strategy game played by moving the checkers to various places on the board,\u201d Adam stated. \u201cThe idea is to capture as many of your opponents pieces as you can. It requires you pay attention to not only your own pieces, but the pieces played by the other player. If you focus on the other pieces, you\u2019ll leave your own to be captured.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thinking for a few minutes, Joe said, \u201cKing I\u2026 me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet, little brother,\u201d Hoss guffed. \u201cWe ain\u2019t played the game yet. Do you remember how to play?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked to Hoss, trying to remember if he did.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can help you, son. Would you like for me to help you beat Hoss,\u201d Ben conspired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe\u2026 cheat\u2026\u201d Joe said without thinking.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t hold his laughter, followed quickly by his father and larger brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy laugh?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, the question you should ask would be, \u2018Why is everyone laughing?\u2019\u201d, Adam suggested as he tried to refrain from laughing so hard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell?\u201d Joe pouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh Shortshanks, it\u2019s just the first time any of us heard you admit ya done cheat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe no\u2026 I don\u2019t cheat!\u201d Joe stated as he tossed the game piece to the table and ran upstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Joe! I didn\u2019t mean nothin\u2019 by it,\u201d Hoss called as he stood to go after his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get the door,\u201d Adam answered upon hearing the knocking.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie? Come in,\u201d offered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEvening Adam, I came to see if Hoss was available. We got a horse down in the back barn\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stood; he knew his middle son was torn between going to soothe things over with his brother versus going to tend to a horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, go help Charlie take care of the horse. I\u2019ll see to Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I didn\u2019t mean to hurt his feelings\u2026 It just felt\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike old times,\u201d Adam completed his statement. \u201cI felt it too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt did feel good to laugh. Go on Hoss,\u201d encouraged Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss followed Charlie outside while Adam and Ben headed up to the second floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you\u2019ve done a good job with Joe, but this\u2026 I think this needs a father\u2019s touch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The eldest Cartwright son nodded. \u201cI\u2019ll head to my room to get that book I started to read last night before I went to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As he stood outside the closed bedroom door, Ben was grateful that Adam had been there for Joe, but he was beginning to feel a twinge of jealously. Always in the past it had been he to whom Joe had sought comfort, he had previously been the one to soothe the boy\u2019s ruffled feelings. He needed, wanted the chance to reconnect with his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Gently Ben knocked on the door, waited for an answer and when one was not forthcoming he turned the knob and slowly entered. It pained him to see his youngest lying face down on his bed, face hidden in his folded arms, crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben crooned as he eased his weight down onto the edge of the bed. His hand instinctively reached for his son\u2019s back, rubbing comforting circle. \u201cWe didn\u2019t mean to laugh at you. And Hoss didn\u2019t mean to imply\u2026 didn\u2019t mean to say that you did cheat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He felt the shudder course through the boy\u2019s back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess we were getting too comfortable, feeling that things were getting back to being like they were before you were taken.\u201d Ben remembered the nights that Joe and Hoss would play checkers, with Joe winning so many of the games. At first it was Hoss allowing his younger brother to win, especially when he was learning the game. But over time, Joe\u2019s cunning mind figured out moves well ahead of what Hoss could, and the older brother knew it. But the running joke had started, and Joe had laughed once he realized his brother was only teasing him. Honor mattered to the Cartwrights, be it a legal contract or even a game of checkers. \u201cJoe, we know you wouldn\u2019t cheat, it was just the way you said it. It gave us a moment to forget what had happened. We\u2019re sorry. We didn\u2019t mean to hurt your feelings.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben watched as Joe turned over onto his side before sitting up. His heart swelled when he felt his boy wrap him in his arms, the boy\u2019s head nestled against his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy whispered, \u201cI want like before, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was content to wrap his arms around this child and never let him go. Minutes had passed before Joe fell asleep, and Ben heard the door open and two sets of concerned eyes peered inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShhh, he just fell asleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs he okay?\u201d Adam asked as he pushed the door open and stepped into the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe will be,\u201d Ben whispered<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I help ya lay him down and get him ready for bed?\u201d Hoss inquired as he walked deeper into the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you slip off his boots,\u201d Ben suggested as he laid the boy back to the surface of his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss smiled while thinking of old times, the days after Adam had left for college and Joe tried so hard to be grown up. He\u2019d fall asleep wherever he was and it had been up to him and his father to strip the boy and dress him in his nightshirt. They rarely ever had to worry about him waking once he was asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once boots and belt were set aside, Ben pulled the covers over the boy\u2019s body, blew out the flame of the lantern on the bureau and motioned his sons to leave the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not gonna dress him in his nightshirt?\u201d Hoss asked as they left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot tonight. I think giving him a little dignity of not treating him like a small child will help him cope.\u201d Ben answered. \u201cHow was the horse?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA little colicky, but he\u2019ll be fine. We fixed up a bran mash for him,\u201d Hoss answered. \u201cWish it were that easy to fix things up with Joe.\u201d Glumly Hoss headed for his bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The following day, after Hoss gave first orders, Joe had settled in to performing his chores as requested. As the days passed, Charlie had to laugh at a few of the shortcuts the boy took in order to get the job done, so much like before. The ranch foreman thought that life was finally returning to how it should have been. But he vowed to keep an eye on the boy to make sure his shortcuts didn\u2019t lead to the boy totally ignoring how to do the job right.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The first time he was allowed to accompany his brothers to the breaking corral, Joe sat on the railing and watched numerous horses ultimately submit as well as the wranglers go flying through the air to land in an unceremonious heap on the ground. He cringed the first time a man landed and scrambled out of the way of flailing hooves, he stared at the other men who had broke out in laughter. He cocked his head and looked to the man in the corral and noticed he too was laughing. By the time the third rider had fallen, Joe was lightly laughing with the men, as long as the rider had safely made it to the railing.<\/span><\/p>\n

As one of the last horses of the day was coerced into the loading chute, Joe sat up and took notice. He saw the defiance in this one\u2019s eye, the proud bearing as it held its head high, its anger conveyed as it struck out with a foreleg in protest to the saddle and girth being strapped around its body. The mare flung herself against the side of the chute a few times showing she was not willing to cooperate with this thing called horse breaking.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam waved off the next wrangler, Jasper, who was supposed to be up, indicating he wanted a chance to tame this one, and to prevent any of their hands from being hurt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam began to second guess himself as the horse humped its back and forcefully kicked backwards within the chute. He took a deep breath and lowered himself into the saddle, quickly locating his stirrups and positioned his hand on the halter rope. He nodded and the gate flew open.<\/span><\/p>\n

The mare jerked and bucked and kicked, spinning and twisting and jumping, pulling out every trick it could manage to unload the unwanted weight from its back. Not ten seconds elapsed before the majority of the weight left, but the mare still kicked in fury at the saddle and stirrups that thumped into its flanks.<\/span><\/p>\n

The horse saw the men run to the fallen rider and it changed directions, bearing down on those who dared take away her freedom. Other wranglers jumped into the pen to change the horse\u2019s direction, away from those helping. The bucking lessened when the mare realized she could not dislodge the saddle. The animal stopped in the middle of the ring, head held high and gave a shrill piercing scream; causing a few men to wince at the sound. A few horses in the holding corral answered the challenge.<\/span><\/p>\n

Then men settled to taking care of their own and when Adam finally gingerly made it to the railing, the men turned their attention back to the horse. Each man stopped in fear, not wanting to set the horse off lest she injure or cripple the boy who stood before her. The boy\u2019s left hand extended out flat in front of him, his right slowly approaching the mare\u2019s face. They saw his mouth moving, but couldn\u2019t hear what he was saying.<\/span><\/p>\n

What no one had seen was the boy staring the mare straight in the eye, following her eyes wherever she looked. And the mare took notice of the figure sitting on the railing, watching her. She sensed no danger from the small person; she sensed this one would not harm her. The mare held her position when he jumped into the corral and calmly walked in her direction, speaking non-sense and chatter; sounds that soothed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Hoss whispered, fear held him. That was his youngest brother out there standing in close proximity to an unbroken horse, one who had already shown a lack of respect for humans.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe reached for the halter rope as he leaned his head against the mare\u2019s large jowl. He began stroking her velvety muzzle and continued talking to her. The smallest of those in the arena led the mare to the others and said, \u201cTry her now, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me?\u201d begged Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe was just scared. She didn\u2019t know what you\u2026 were doing. She\u2019ll be okay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was dubious of his youngest bother\u2019s claim, but motioned for the men to load her one more time. Cautiously, Adam climbed into the saddle; he couldn\u2019t let this mare know she had won. If he didn\u2019t finish the job now, it would be doubly hard the following day. The mare still expressed her displeasure when the chute opened, but the ferocity wasn\u2019t as explosive and Adam managed to ride the mare to a halt.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam slipped from the saddle, he realized there was indeed something special about this horse, like the previous mare the week before. He gave he a couple of pats on the neck as if to say, \u2018you did good’ before walking away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we should have Shortshanks talk to all the horses before ya ride \u2018em,\u201d teased Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, right. We\u2019re just lucky he didn\u2019t get killed. God, if Pa had been here,\u201d bemoaned Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t gonna be the one to tell him, neither.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gonna find out\u2026\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but not from me, and not from you.\u201d Hoss emphasized his point by jabbing his older brother in the chest with his index finger.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the hands stood back and watched as the brothers left the corral, mounted their horses and headed home. No one heard him whisper, \u201cCaballerizos.\u201d (Master of the horse.)<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, do you realize how dangerous it was to do what you did?\u201d Adam asked as they rode home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo what? All I did was\u2026 talk to her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle brother, she was a wild horse. She coulda hurt ya,\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe didn\u2019t,\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I don\u2019t know what you learned when you were with that tribe, but you can\u2019t just do what you did,\u201d Adam insisted. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t safe. Can you imagine how Hoss or I would have felt had you been injured? What would we have told Pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe was scared. She didn\u2019t have anyone\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, that mare isn\u2019t a human\u2026 you can\u2019t equate human feelings to it,\u201d Adam reprimanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe angered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I know you\u2019re a natural, you can work with practically any horse, but not the ones we haven\u2019t tamed. You\u2019re not grown enough to handle them,\u201d Adam attempted to explain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI tamed her!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou calmed her. She\u2019s not tame, not by a long shot. And she won\u2019t be for a while yet.\u201d Adam answered. \u201cI won\u2019t tell Pa what you did, but this is it. No more of what you did. The next time\u2026 The next time there better not be a next time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to help,\u201d Joe whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe know ya did,\u201d Hoss answered as he reached over and placed a hand on his brother\u2019s arm. \u201cBut sometimes, that kind of help can get ya hurt. We don\u2019t want to see ya hurt.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d Joe submitted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cApology accepted. Now, we also won\u2019t say anything about this to Pa\u2026 Okay?\u201d asked Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 23 \u2013 Past and Present Collide<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The following morning, Adam and Hoss revealed to Joe that he would be able to help a little bit with the horses that had already been broken, but under strict supervision.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe eagerly looked forward to working with his brothers and training the horses, he knew he could get a horse to do anything for him. And that was where his heart wanted to be; he was thankful his father hadn\u2019t wanted him out on the range yet. He didn\u2019t want to spend hours in the saddle pushing some dumb cow that didn\u2019t have the sense to keep out of trouble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Horses were majestic and noble; without a good horse a cowboy really wasn\u2019t anything. He vaguely remembered a woman telling him a long time ago that he was a natural; he smiled at the vision of the blonde-haired woman laughing as he rode his big horse in circles around her. What he didn\u2019t remember was his father sitting in the saddle behind him, guiding the horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

It was the first time Charlie had been scared for Little Joe in the weeks since his return. He\u2019d watched the boy\u2019s confidence grow as well as his command of talking and it had pleased him. But like most boys were bound to do, Joe began to take shortcuts and also pull a few stunts in an effort to get through his chores quicker and on to the breaking corral. What Joe was doing came to the point that the foreman knew he had to say something. He didn\u2019t want the boy to get in trouble with his father, and he feared the boy was becoming a little reckless, so he decided to say something to Hoss; who was leading Chubbs into the yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know Charlie, I know he\u2019s not doing his chores properly. Guess I overlooked it because it felt so good to have him with us out at the corrals and hearin\u2019 him a laughin\u2019. I\u2019m sorry ya had to come to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAw Hoss, he\u2019s just getting back to living. If I remember, he didn\u2019t cotton to chores before, daydreamed while doing them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill, it ain\u2019t right and I don\u2019t want ya doing his chores for him,\u201d Hoss answered, a little miffed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSame could be said for you. I\u2019m only saying something because if this continues, it could lead to him making a real mistake and possibly getting hurt.\u201d Charlie hadn\u2019t said exactly what he\u2019d seen, but figured the boy\u2019s brother could set him right without knowing all the details.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll say something to Joe. Thanks Charlie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss dreaded what was about to come, but Adam had warned him back in the beginning that they would have to stand firm that there were rules to follow and Joe had to learn there were consequences for his actions or inactions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie returned to the forge where he had been working before he had gone to get Buck out of his stall and saw what Joe was doing.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss entered the barn and couldn\u2019t believe what he saw. Joe had jumped from the hayloft to the pinto and was now standing on the pinto\u2019s back reaching for the hayloft. Hoss was already flustered at his brother for shirking his responsibilities, and now he was taking risks and playing around on one of the horses. He raised his voice, \u201cWhat in tarnation do you think youra doin\u2019?!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned around, startled and saved himself as he half fell, half jumped from the back of his horse. His eyes widened at the sound of his brother\u2019s approach.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019d skin ya alive for doing somethin\u2019 as stupid as that! This here\u2019s a working ranch and I got work to do. I don\u2019t have time to keep an eye on you boy!\u201d Hoss grabbed the halter of the pinto and led it back into its stall. \u201cYou got a job to do, ya best just do it! I don\u2019t wanna have ta tell ya again!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stood frozen, it was a shock, the anger in the words Hoss used as he approached and towered over him; Joe turned and ran.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss watched as Joe ran towards the house; thinking he was grateful for a few minutes of quiet, he picked up Chubbs reins and led his horse inside. Grooming his horse helped settle his nerves and restore his heart to beating normally. As the minutes passed, he figured his brother wouldn\u2019t return to the barn with him there, so he decided to go ahead and finish Joe\u2019s chores; as a peace offering. He knew he\u2019d come down hard on his brother, but that stunt had scared him\u2026 what if the pinto startled and bucked his brother off. Hoss felt even worse when he realized that his outburst could have spooked the horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

After escaping the anger of his large brother, Joe curled himself into a ball in the darkest recesses of the root cellar. The words his brother yelled at him caused his mind to venture back to that day, the day his world had shattered. He remembered the Indian who towered over him and punished him for not completing his task. It was difficult to know what to do when you didn\u2019t know the language, and you weren\u2019t allowed to speak. But he understood that tone of voice; it was the same as he heard earlier when Hoss towered over him. It was the same as Raging Bear\u2019s, right before he\u2019d grabbed Joe and tied the leather collar around his neck, after he had used it to whip Joe\u2019s backside. The large Indian walked away and left him tied to the fallen log, like a dog, for hours in the afternoon sun.<\/span><\/p>\n

Raging Bear\u2019s anger was the same as Rufus\u2019, bitter at Joe for not doing as told\u2026 only Joe understood what Rufus had told him to do. The young boy had been raised right by his father and his brother, he knew what the men were planning was wrong. Everything was wrong\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

He ran as Charlie told him to. He saw Charlie fall with an arrow lodged in his shoulder. He felt the rough hands grab him by the arm and yank him off the ground. Another lifted him up, staring at him face to face. He smelled the rank odors of the man\u2019s breath and body. Joe began kicking and swinging his fists.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you aren\u2019t a little hellion,\u201d the large man looked sideways and spat a wad of chew to the ground. \u201cKeep it up kid and I\u2019ll feed you to Black Wolf.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe froze, eyes wide open in terror.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLoad up all the provisions you can find!\u201d someone shouted.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Men ran back and forth from the house and root cellar to the horses carrying bags containing their plunder.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe watched in horror as several of the men doused the barn in kerosene before striking a match and tossing it inside.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about firing the house?\u201d someone yelled.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The whoosh of the flames taking hold of the barn startled Joe while the large man continued to restrain him. Tears poured from his eyes as the wind blew the smoke towards where they stood. He cried for Star as he heard his pony shrilly screaming in terror, running around the corral as the flames leaped through the open windows and out the side door.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMount up, we ain\u2019t got the time!\u201d the leader ordered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

They rode for hours; he was held roughly in front of one of the men. The man grumbled about why he had to put up with the brat, and wasn\u2019t kind when he had to keep repositioning the boy in the saddle.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The sun was fading when they joined up with others who had already set up a camp. Joe saw several wagons at the edge of light from the camp fires; as well as several women crying. The man picked Joe up from in front of him and dropped him to the ground with a, \u201cStay put, kid.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

From where he fell, Joe watched the man dismount and hitch up his pants.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone get over here and take care of this brat!\u201d he yelled.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The others laughed before tending to their horses.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

A very tall and slender man with long black hair stopped in front of Joe and stared down at him.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMister, I gotta go,\u201d Joe stated.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t going nowhere,\u201d the first man answered, as he pulled his saddle from his horse.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hadn\u2019t wanted to, but for hours he\u2019d sat in the saddle and now his body told him of its urgent needs, he grabbed himself in hopes of preventing an embarrassing accident.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The tall, black-haired Indian nodded his head sideways, indicating the direction where Joe should go. Hurriedly, Joe ran towards a copse of trees, unbuckling the suspenders of his dungarees as he went, he dropped his pants and relieved himself. Even with his back to the man, he was embarrassed as the tall man stood nearby, watching over him.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

As he redressed himself, Joe wondered about running away into the dark, but that was as far as he got. A firm hand on his shoulder led him back the campfire and beyond.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet him tied up!\u201d ordered the big man Joe had ridden with. As the man looked at Joe, it was the first time the boy saw the ugly scar that ran down the right side of Rufus Wilkins\u2019 face, from the outer eyebrow down to his jawbone.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got him,\u201d called a red-headed man, Red Murphy, who taunted the young boy by flipping a strip of dry rawhide towards him.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKeep away from me!\u201d Joe yelled as he tried to back away from the stranger who approached. His backward retreat was blocked by the tall Indian who stood behind him, grabbed his arms and held him tight. \u201cLet go of me!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The red head sneered as he bound the boy\u2019s wrists.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that necessary?\u201d the Indian asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBlack Wolf, you want him to get away and bring the law on us? He\u2019ll fetch a good price south of the border,\u201d Ambrose McComber answered as he stared down at the Indian, having not dismounted from his horse.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019d bring a better price in San Francisco. I don\u2019t want to head back to Mexico,\u201d one of the other men called out.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI said we\u2019re heading to Mexico!\u201d McComber declared.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d better let me go! When my pa\u2026\u201d Joe shouted.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Having enough of dealing with the boy, Rufus back handed him across the face, knocking Joe to the ground. \u201cThere\u2019s more than one way to skin a cat.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Grabbing Joe by the arm, Red dragged him over to one of the wagon wheels where he securely tied him to a wheel so he couldn\u2019t get away.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Trying to hide his tears, Joe watched as the women nearby were forced inside one of the wagons, hands tied behind their backs and then to the rings bolted to the floor.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe and the other captives woke from an uncomfortable night\u2019s sleep. When Red came to untie him from the wagon wheel, he took a chance.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna go home!\u201d Joe pleaded.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re gonna do as I say!\u201d Rufus arrived and stood over him, watching him, he demanded that Black Wolf go watch over the boy as he gathered firewood.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d Joe yelled.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The man advanced upon Joe, grabbed him, hauled him over his lap after removing his belt\u2026 it was the first time the marauders whipped him for disobedience.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI gave you a job to do, DO IT!\u201d Rufus yelled directly in his face before shoving him to the ground.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow did your afternoon go, son?\u201d Ben asked as Hoss entered the house and placed his hat upon the pegs hanging from the wall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt didn\u2019t. I\u2019m gonna go get washed up for supper,\u201d Hoss said as he walked past his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d Adam inquired as he looked up from the ledgers that he was working to tabulate at Ben\u2019s desk. He was curious at his brother\u2019s disappointed demeanor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe got to goofing off,\u201d Hoss explained without looking to either member of his family. He paused in his walk across the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe? I take it you\u2019re talking of your little brother?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and it ain\u2019t the first time I covered for him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to talk about it?\u201d queried Ben, Hoss hadn\u2019t moved from where he had stopped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI remembered what Adam told me about him needing to learn the rules, and I\u2019ve been letting him slip.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat changed this time?\u201d Adam asked as he walked from behind the desk to join Hoss and Ben in the middle of the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis time\u2026 Charlie found him and told me about it.\u201d Looking up to see his father\u2019s expression, Hoss continued, \u201cI got flustered at him\u2026 when I went in the barn\u2026 he was pulling a stunt.\u201d Hoss started shuffling his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Ben asked in surprise.<\/span><\/p>\n

He hadn\u2019t expected this, not so soon. But then again, Joe was Joe, he should have realized it as bound to happen, the stunt and his brother\u2019s reaction. Regardless, he was pleased that Little Joe was beginning to return to his normal self.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was doing something dumb and I yelled at him. Told him he had a job to do and to get it done.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid he?\u201d Adam inquired, wondering just what transpired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 He ran off\u2026 Figured he went to see Hop Sing and nab a few cookies before running upstairs to his bedroom to pout,\u201d grumbled Hoss. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa. He done scared me. I went ahead and done his chores.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSupper ready,\u201d Hop Sing called as he set a platter of spare ribs on the table. \u201cYou bring Lit\u2019le Joe in from barn, make clean, come eat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do ya mean bring him in from the barn? I just came from there and he hasn\u2019t been out there since he ran off.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRan off? Boy ran off? Why Joe run off?\u201d Hop Sing asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see if he\u2019s up in his room, Pa,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Moments later, \u201cPa, he\u2019s not up here!\u201d Adam quickly ran down the steps.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do ya mean he\u2019s not up there?\u201d Hoss asked as his voice conveyed a shudder of fear. \u201cWhere is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grew uncomfortable riding with the men, he wished that they would let him ride with the women in the wagon. As much as he enjoyed riding horses, he hated being man-handled in the saddle by Rufus.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have an accident and it\u2019ll be the last accident you ever have,\u201d Rufus growled in his ear.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

As noon approached, Joe couldn\u2019t help but fidget in the saddle, his discomfort growing by the minute. \u201cPlease, I gotta go,\u201d he begged.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Rufus halted his horse and dropped Joe to the ground, \u201cYou step one foot away from there and I won\u2019t hesitate to put a hole in you. Don\u2019t care what the boss says.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Once he was through with his business, Joe was roughly hauled back into the saddle before Rufus spurred his horse to catch up with the others. The afternoon passed and Joe struggled to stay awake as their trip took him farther and farther away from home.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Day after day, the marauders continued their southward trek; taking advantage of the bounty the Ponderosa had gained the group by traveling without worrying about restocking provisions.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Ambrose McComber realized his men were growing restless as they traveled towards the southeast end of the Nevada territory, so despite the fact they didn\u2019t need any additional supplies, he authorized another raid on a homestead not quite the size of the Ponderosa. Provisions and livestock were readily taken as they had been during their last raid.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The youngest Cartwright had cowered after witnessing the raid on a homestead. The marauders laughed as they casually killed those living and working there, as if they might have been shooting prairie dogs running for shelter. The boy wanted to turn away but was brain couldn\u2019t think clear enough to instruct his muscles. He finally forced his eyes closed when a woman was struck by an arrow as she ran to her husband\u2019s side.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He remembered Charlie falling to the ground and two of the other hands, who arrived shortly after the raid began, had fallen as well. He was thankful that his family wasn\u2019t home and that Hop Sing had been in town.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The whole experience sickened him, the men laughing the whole time as they murdered innocent people for the fun of it. He collapsed to his hands and knees as the dry heaves convulsed his body. His eyelids were closed tightly, pressing against his bulging eyes, yet the tears still fell. The strong heaves threatened to expel his tongue as the muscles below his rib cage constricted causing him pain.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hop Sing grumbled about dinner being ruined as he returned the spare ribs to the oven; however, he was there to look for the youngest member of the family.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwrights had checked the main house and the bath house, as well as the barn and hayloft in their search for Little Joe. Hoss even peeked inside the empty smoke house to see if the boy was hiding there. Hop Sing checked the chicken coop as well as the pig pen behind the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

The four men stood in the main yard, perplexed where the boy could have gone off to.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBest notify the hands we\u2019ll need their help in looking for Joseph,\u201d Ben admitted with the sun sinking to the horizon. \u201cHoss, get the torches.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The days blurred together and Joe once gain found himself in a restless sleep, tied to the wagon wheel for another night during this journey. He retreated within himself as he had watched the women begin to give up on hopes of being rescued. Before the sun set, the wagon with the women had left the group, and it was only Joe and the men who continued on to wherever they were going.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He heard snatches of conversation but couldn\u2019t clearly understand what the men were saying\u2026 or what it meant for him. All he knew was he was being taken farther from his family.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Whenever they would stop, Rufus would stand over him, barking orders to him to gather firewood, or to do this or that. There were nights Joe would submit and obey without resistance, but other nights\u2026 Joe thought of Adam. He\u2019d stayed home because he couldn\u2019t remember Adam, but now all he could think about was his oldest brother\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He wouldn\u2019t cower; he was strong, like pa. He\u2019d fight these men,\u2019 Joe thought to himself.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

And so Joe attempted to defy Rufus, kick at him or just stick his chin out defiantly and yell, \u201cNO!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Earlier in the evening, Joe had received another whipping from the man, and while he tried to hide his tears the large man yelled, \u201cTRY THAT AGAIN, YOU\u2019LL GET THE SAME! I GAVE YOU A JOB, NOW DO IT!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He grabbed the boy up from where he\u2019d landed after being shoved to the ground and roughly propelled the boy into the woods in front of him. As Joe gathered firewood, the large man continued to play with his belt, teasingly slapping it against the palm of his hand or against his thigh.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The marauders had settled down for the night after presenting their dirty supper dishes for Joe to wash in the nearby stream. With the cooking gear returned to the wagon and bed rolls pulled out, the camp quieted.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not take that one to San Francisco. Abner said he\u2019d pay good money for the likes of that kid,\u201d Red complained. \u201cHell, he\u2019ll pay a lot of money for him; he likes pretty little boys.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

McComber grinned, \u201cBecause, I know a man in Mexico, who will pay us more than Abner ever would, especially for the likes of this kid. Besides, I got other ideas on how this kid can make us some money\u2026 along the way.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The group had halted outside of Henning, Nevada when McComber announced his scheme.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWallace, in the morning you take the boy into town and buy him some decent cloths, get yourself set up like a dandy too.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow come?\u201d Wallace asked, he didn\u2019t look too kind at Rufus who had grunted in appreciation that he was not the one chosen.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t get away with what I\u2019m planning with us wearing our old uniforms\u2026 They\u2019re a dead sure give away. If Wheldon gets one whiff of uniforms being involved in this\u2026 He\u2019ll surely be on our tails again.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t follow ya, boss?\u201d Wallace asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s like this, we shuck our military clothes\u2026 Make us seem like a totally different group pulling off these robberies I got planned\u2026 You my young friend\u2026 are going to become a widower who struck it rich in the Comstock. Why you\u2019ll be looking for a place to call home for you and your young son\u2026 You\u2019ll want to make investments in the town, flash a wallet full of money and want to put it in the bank\u2026 Why any town would be willing to open the doors of their vaults to someone like you\u2026 You visit the bank, and we rob it. And as insurance against being followed, we\u2019re gonna kidnap the kid\u2026 \u2018our\u2019 kid. We get our money back, and the town\u2019s money, and you play the distraught father\u2026 We can\u2019t lose!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow long do I have to play this part?\u201d The man wasn\u2019t too excited about playing the part of the boy\u2019s father, but he was the only who could pull this off because of a faint resemblance to the child.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, for a day or two\u2026\u201d McComber stated, but then rethought the plan. \u201cBetter yet, wait a few hours demand a posse head out to find your son and you demand to ride with them\u2026 In time they\u2019ll give up, money is money, but it ain\u2019t their child. You tell them you won\u2019t stop\u2026 Not until you find your son. Then you\u2019ll catch up with us outside of the next town. We\u2019ll wait for you.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Before entering Henderson, Joe had been warned the consequences for any disobedience. Rufus had told Joe that this was his initiation into their gang, \u201cAfter today kid, you\u2019ll be a criminal just like us. What\u2019ll yer Pa think of ya then?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe cringed as Rufus lifted him into the saddle, \u201cDon\u2019t mess this up, kid\u2026 or else we\u2019ll be shipping you home in pieces to your pa\u2026 Not that he\u2019d want you back after you help rob the innocent people of this here town.\u201d And so he quietly sat in the saddle, as Wallace led the horse he was riding.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

While shopping for new clothes for him and his son, Wallace had let the store proprietor know that after being honorably discharged from the army he had headed west and recently struck it rich in the gold fields, had cashed it all in, sold his claim, and was now looking for a town to call home to settle down and provide a stable place for his son to go to school. He told a sad story of his wife being murdered by marauders years before, how grief had driven him farther west, and now\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The shop owner had directed them to the nearest barber shop and bath house in town. Once refreshed and looking dapper, Wallace stood behind Joe as they looked into the full-length looking glass.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The barber made comment, \u201cYour son must be your pride and joy, considering how much he favors you,\u201d as he dusted off the back of the man\u2019s jacket.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Soon the mayor of Henderson made an appearance, and set right to work to convince the man that he should make Henderson his home. He boasted of the fine school and teaching staff, and the fact that law and order was a primary focus for the Sheriff.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Wallace enjoyed the attention and the free lunch the mayor treated him to, as well as his son. He strolled along the boardwalk, appearing to take interest in everything the mayor had to say, only really piquing his curiosity when they walked in front of the bank.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHonestly, Mayor Amsterdam, if you don\u2019t mind\u2026 I would like to see your bank,\u201d Wallace stated, pretending to be hesitant to make such a suggestion. \u201cI hope you\u2019ll understand that\u2026 well, seeing some of the rowdy elements in OUR town, I\u2019d like to get my money in the bank.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The mayor was exceedingly pleased to hear the man say \u2018our town\u2019 and promptly directed him through the bank door where he eagerly introduced him to Jonas Sweitzer, the bank president.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat in the chair just inside the door to the bank president\u2019s office, swinging his feet back and forth. He was happy to be wearing clean, new clothes, and appreciated that Wallace had insisted on stopping at the bath house before changing into their new purchases. He wished he\u2019d been allowed to spend more time in the tub, playing with the soap and relishing the warmth of the water. But Wallace had commented that he was already looking like a prune and had best get out. The look on the man\u2019s face indicated if he didn\u2019t do as told, Rufus would hear about it.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He looked out the doorway, into the lobby, and watched the people come and go dreaming that maybe his family would enter the bank and rescue him. He didn\u2019t want to be an outlaw. Wallace continued to play the part of a wealthy, gold-strike rich, dandy.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEVERYONE\u2026 DON\u2019T MOVE!\u201d yelled a harsh voice from the lobby as three men entered, faces covered\u2026 guns drawn.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

One man stayed at the closed door, preventing anyone else from entering, while the other two started taking money from the tellers\u2019 drawers and the open bank vault.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMake sure there ain\u2019t anyone in those back offices!\u201d yelled the voice.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Ambrose cowered to the back of the office, while Sweitzer stood firm at his desk, undecided on going for the weapon in the top right hand drawer. Had there not been a customer and child in his office he would have taken the risk.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The barrel of a gun preceded the masked man into the office, \u201cWhat have we here?\u201d The outlaw looked around the room; using his head and his gun he motioned for the occupants to step out into the lobby.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked into the eyes and knew this was Rufus; he cringed as he attempted to back away.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, uh, uh, little boy\u2026\u201d Rufus grabbed hold of Joe\u2019s upper arm. \u201cYou and me\u2026 We\u2019re gonna step out here and make sure these good people do like they\u2019re supposed to, that no one does anything stupid.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Wallace chose to speak up, to play his part\u2026 \u201cPlease don\u2019t hurt him\u2026 He\u2019s my only child\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell that to the good people out here,\u201d Rufus growled, thoroughly enjoying his part.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Wallace, Sweitzer, and Ambrose walked with their hands raised, indicating their submission.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease he\u2019s only eight years old\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Rufus gripped Joe\u2019s arm firmer indicating his displeasure at the boy for saying anything. The fear in Joe\u2019s eyes was real, as were the tears that began to fall.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat your papa, boy?\u201d Rufus asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hesitantly nodded and wished his Pa was there, arms surrounding him, providing the protection that only a real father could offer.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell ya what, you\u2019ll get this kid back\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease don\u2019t harm him,\u201d wailed Wallace.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Rufus leveled his weapon towards Wallace whose wide-opened eyes and gulp weren\u2019t an act.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

A harsh voice spoke, \u201cAs my accomplice was trying to say, you\u2019ll get this kid back when we find there ain\u2019t no posse after us.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Walking backwards, the men slowly made their way through the door, quickly turning and running to their mounts. Rufus grabbed Joe around the chest before mounting his horse, he didn\u2019t bother to set Joe in the saddle in front of him, he just threw the boy across his thighs like a sack of potatoes. Joe held tight to the big man\u2019s leg, just in case he decided to accidentally let go.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hours later they met up with the others of their group, they swapped out their saddles to fresh mounts, slapping the used horses on their rumps to encourage them to continue to run and leave a false trail.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

That night, the marauders made camp and waited for Wallace.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

When the man arrived his first question was, \u201cHow much?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTen thousand dollars,\u201d McComber stated as he grinned at the others whistling.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Rufus hollered over to where they had Joe tied, \u201cHey kid, how\u2019s it feel to be an outlaw? Too bad the people of Henderson ain\u2019t got a clue!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The man and the others howled in laughter.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The ranch hands knew Joe hadn\u2019t come into the bunk house, but still they searched inside anyway. They checked the back barn where their own horses were stabled. They checked the equipment sheds and the hay barn. Disappointment reigned as the search of each location failed to reveal the missing child; the men spread out in teams of two.<\/span><\/p>\n

A full moon shone down on the searchers as each man hoped to be the one to find the missing boy, but as the night wore on, they hoped that someone else had found him instead.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Five days later Wallace and Joe rode into Kingman, Arizona. Wallace rode with a confident air about him; pleased how well everything had gone the first time. He changed his story, now he was the son of a rich New Yorker, eager to make his way to a new job at a law firm his father owned in San Diego, California. He and his son were enjoying their time exploring the west.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

In the bank, Wallace presented a letter of introduction to the teller who asked him to wait a moment while he notified the bank manager that he was there. As they waited, Wallace leaned over, whispered in Joe\u2019s ear while he pretended to straighten out his son\u2019s collar.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Introductions had yet to be made when four armed men barged into the bank. And as they had in Henderson, Joe Cartwright became their hostage. And as before, the town waited what they thought an appropriate amount of time before the posse followed. By nightfall, the posse had given up hopes of finding the outlaws and recovering their money, but one distraught \u2018father\u2019 pleaded to continue. \u201cI have to go\u2026 He\u2019s my only child.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Having already struck pay dirt in Lake Havasu City along the Arizona\/California border, they crossed all the way into California and struck the Savings & Loan in Big River. To Rufus robbing a bank was tame, it lacked the fervor he experienced when attacking a homestead. So, he decided to up the ante, he relished the feeling that coursed through his body when his bullet struck true. He shot the customer who had attempted to prevent them from taking the child.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, brat!\u201d Rufus jerked Joe\u2019s arm hard, his head snapped backwards at the brutality.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease!\u201d Wallace begged. \u201cTake me instead! He\u2019s just a child\u2026 Don\u2019t hurt my son.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d screamed Joe upon seeing the blood soaking the shoulder of the wounded man\u2019s shirt. He valiantly struggled against the Rufus\u2019 grip.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Images of Ben Cartwright flooded Joe\u2019s mind, as he believed the man had acted as his father would have. It had been so long since he\u2019d seen his family that he actually thought that the man might have been his father. No one previously had tried to prevent the marauders from taking him. Guilt ate at the boy that this man had been injured, all because he was now one of the outlaws.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

With his gun hand, Rufus backhanded the boy across his face, knocking him temporarily unconscious. Like a rag doll, Rufus threw the boy over his shoulder and ran out the door.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

They were just leaving the town when Joe regained his senses.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

That night, he didn\u2019t hear Wallace arrive nor the boasting of the fact that they had hauled in over twelve thousand dollars.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The marauders, dressed in their faded military uniforms, struck another homestead outside of Bouse, Arizona. Provisions were hauled out and horses were taken to provide the marauders with fresh mounts to use in their efforts to lay false trails. The women abducted from this homestead were immediately sent ahead to Mexico with several of the marauders acting as guards.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The marauders headed in no particular direction when they left one town for the next, their only intent was to throw off any lawman that might be following from afar, anything to lead them in the wrong direction. It didn\u2019t pay to take the chance that there wasn\u2019t any law following them. They varied their routine in order to disassociate themselves from being connected to a previous act; they switched between Marauders and Outlaws as if on a whim.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

As they entered Quartzsite, Arizona, they were pleased to hear the town boasted a fairly new bank. The hold-up began as all the others and progressed just as smoothly, until the Sheriff appeared moments after the marauders raced from the front of the bank. Regardless of the fact that the bank robbers had taken a child, and much to the chagrin of Wallace\u2019s begging that they would kill his son; within fifteen minutes the posse was on their trail. The marauders rode harder than ever in an effort to lose their pursuers.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

For two days stopping to make camp was out of the question; they only stopped when they came to streams to allow the horses a break, refill their canteens, and to eat some hardtack. One by one the men would step away from the group to take care of personal needs, before returning to run again.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The chase was taking its toll on the riders and their mounts, and little consideration was given to Joe and how he was holding up as the chase continued. The outlaws hoped they had slipped the posse, having been half a day since they\u2019d seen any sign of someone following them. They decided to head towards their arranged meeting place; Black Wolf and Darting Hawk, a few other outlaws and the wagons were waiting for them at the small lake.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was tired and exhausted, and tried as best that he could, but it was not to be, he suffered an unfortunate accident upon their arrival. Rufus threw the embarrassed child from his saddle and drew his weapon. Black Wolf urged his horse into the back of Rufus\u2019 mount, distracting him from the boy.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe brat pissed in my saddle!\u201d Rufus yelled as his face turned red.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll deal with the boy,\u201d Black Wolf replied as he watched Rufus\u2019 horse nerviously move away.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTen minutes!\u201d McComber yelled.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have dry clothes in the wagon, get changed,\u201d Black Wolf ordered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was thankful for the Indian\u2019s intervention and slight consideration, but more thankful that he could change in the wagon that had been waiting for them. He asked if he could ride in the back of the wagon for a while. The answer he received was a question asked by Red, \u2018Do ya wanna be tied up all the time?\u2019<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

From that point forward, Joe rode in the saddle with the tall Indian, Black Wolf.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

It took two additional days of careful riding before they felt they had successfully accomplished their goal, evading the posse from Quartzsite. When they finally settled down to relax for the night, they counted the money and realized they had only netted a paltry five thousand dollars.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Weary from all that he had experienced, Joe was growing tired, dragging his feet as he walked to collect wood or headed to the stream to clean the dirty dishes, or whatever task had been ordered of him.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Back home he had enjoyed helping take care of the horses, but now, there was no pleasure in performing tasks for these men. Each time he helped saddle a horse meant that much more distance would be placed between him and his family. He had no idea how long it had been since he\u2019d last seen his father and brother.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Dusk was settling when McComber ordered Rufus and another to scout around, to make sure no one else was nearby to accidentally come upon them. As had been their practice during their time in Texas, and now in the Nevada and the Arizona territories, McComber didn\u2019t believe in posting guards near their camp, he made two riders ride as night hawks, just as if this were a cattle drive. The men rotated out throughout the night.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Rufus kicked at Joe as he ordered the boy to get his horse ready to ride. Too tired to truly care, Joe didn\u2019t notice the burr caught in the saddle blanket he placed across the horse\u2019s back. The first time in a long time Joe\u2019s eyes brightened in seeing the large man bucked off his horse; he couldn\u2019t resist giggling as the man landed hard upon the ground.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had never been abused as much as Rufus did that night, the belt struck his buttocks and his thighs too many times to count. And the language the man used would have made a hardened criminal cringe. Shoving the boy off his lap, he stood and towered over the child, \u201cAll ya had to do was your job! I gave ya a job! Thought you were being cute putting that burr under my saddle, eh. I showed you cute!\u201d Roughly he bound Joe\u2019s wrists in front of him and tied his ankles. Rufus tied one end of another rope snuggly around Joe\u2019s neck and the other end to a tree, as if he were a dog. As the man walked away he yelled to Red, \u201cYou watch the brat! Darting Hawk, get in the saddle!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Tears poured down Joe\u2019s face; even if he had been able to, the act of rubbing his backside wouldn\u2019t have lessened the pain of his inflamed flesh. When exhaustion finally claimed him, he was curled on his side in the fetal position, subconsciously his thumb tucked in his mouth.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The next several days, even though the youngest Cartwright did everything that Rufus ordered without complaint, the large man continued to intimidate him, shouting \u201cJUST DO YOUR JOB!\u201d inches from his face, before sneering, \u201cI DON\u2019T WANNA HAVETA TELL YA AGAIN!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe cringed backwards at the man\u2019s harsh words, which earned him a backhanded slap to the face for emphasis to get the job done.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

It had been well over two weeks since they had pulled a robbery or raided a homestead; McComber had decided to lay low for a while and they hadn\u2019t moved in three days.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat Quartzsite posse was too close,\u201d Red Wilkins moaned as he stretched out on his bedroll near the fire.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Wallace added, \u201cYeah, reminded me a lot of Wheldon\u2019s patrol back in Texas.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

The first time in a long time they had afforded themselves the luxury a night of drinking.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s time we should head south\u2026\u201d McComber stated.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, get rid of the kid,\u201d Rufus growled and he pulled a well-worn boot from his foot. \u201cI\u2019m tired of dealing with him.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Ambrose, where is that guy down in Mexico?\u201d one of the men called out as he handed around a bottle of whiskey.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCasa de Fuego,\u201d McComber answered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHouse of Fire,\u201d another translated as he grabbed himself and moved his hips suggestively. \u201cMaybe we get to spend the night with a fiery woman\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Roberto has plenty of women\u2026 He likes to cater to the needs of ALL his clientele, young, old, skinny, fat\u2026 Just name it, he\u2019s got them,\u201d answered McComber.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d he\u2026\u201d *belch* \u201cwant the kid?\u201d one of the men asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow much money\u2026 will a boy\u2026 like him\u2026 fetch? You said this man\u2026 really likes pretty\u2026 pretty little boys\u2026\u201d This man and some of the others were becoming intoxicated.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoberto enjoys pretty boys, as do some of his friends\u2026 It was Abner in San Francisco who once introduced me to Roberto. What they do grosses me out, but\u2026\u201d McComber replied, \u201cwho cares what they do with the boy after we get our money.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Later, as the camp settled back, Black Wolf stood on the outskirts of the camp and had listened to the white men talk as they passed bottle after bottle around. After days of riding with the boy, feeling him tremble whenever Rufus looked at him, the tall Indian came to see the others in a different light.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do we stay, brother?\u201d he quietly spoke in his native tongue as his brother came up behind him. \u201cWe should have left these men a long time ago\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe stay because we have nowhere else to go. And\u2026 he makes us rich,\u201d Darting Hawk, replied as he pointed to McComber snatching a bottle of whiskey from one of the men who lounged around the fire.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut the boy. What they do\u2026 Can you not see that he is dying?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not dying\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis soul is, I see it in his eyes. Were he your son, would you wish him to see all that he has witnessed? To be forced into playing the parts he has?\u201d Black Wolf asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not for us to say whether he lives or dies. He is white. If he dies he is one less white child to grow up to oppress our people.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe does not belong here, nor does he belong in Mexico. We do not belong with these men, you speak of oppression\u2026.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe make good money by selling the whites to Mexico\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut not children\u2026 not\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve sold children we\u2019ve taken before,\u201d Darting Hawk answered.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTo the mines, yes\u2026 Not as they says. They talk of this Abner in the city by the water\u2026 I do not like the tone they use when they speak of him. It is the same for this man in Mexico. This Casa de Fuego, and the way the man acted as he spoke\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is a house where white men pay money to use women, to behave as if an animal in rut.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know of the places\u2026 A woman selling her body is one thing, but they talk as if it will be done to the child. Please brother, let us leave\u2026\u201d pleaded Black Wolf.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou are going soft, brother\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do not care what they do to the white women or that they rob banks to steal money or attack homesteads and kill white men. But, if I am soft in caring about a child\u2026 Then so be it.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Taking his eyes off those in the camp, Darting Hawk faced his brother.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201dIf we were to leave, where would we go? What would we do for money? You wish to take the boy? Where would you have us take him?\u201d Darting Hawk asked. \u201cTwo Indians with a white child, they would shoot us down like mangy dogs.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Black Wolf looked to the worn moccasin boots he wore and said one word, \u201cHome.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you crazy?!\u201d Darting Hawk lowered his voice before he continued. \u201cThat is no longer our home. We are outcast. Here we are someone!\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre we? Do they treat us any better than Raging Bear? We soil our hands with the blood of the whites; we join them in the attack\u2026 We do as they say, when they say, how they say. Do they ask our opinion? Are we truly one of them? Why are we here on the outskirts of the camp? Why are we not invited into their victory celebration?\u201d Black Wolf pointed towards the men who were getting drunk. \u201cWe are only here because they need us to do what they feel is beneath them or to do what they cannot; we hunt, we scout… We are accepted here because we are outcasts, but we are not accepted as equals,\u201d Black Wolf concluded.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy should we return to Raging Bear?\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot Raging Bear\u2026 but Mother, she grows old\u2026 I wish to see her one more time.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen go.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat of the boy?\u201d Black Wolf asked.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake him if you must.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrother\u2026 please come with me. I do not know why, but I do know this, this will not end well. I see our deaths if we stay.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, my path is here.\u201d Looking to his brother, he said, \u201cIf you see mother, tell her I am sorry.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Trying one more time, \u201cWe don\u2019t have to go home\u2026\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Darting Hawk shook his head.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKeep safe, my brother.\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

So exhausted and deep in sleep, Joe did not feel the ropes being cut from his hands and ankles nor did he feel himself being lifted to the back of a horse to sit in front of a rider. He didn\u2019t hear two brothers bid each other goodbye; he missed the longing in their eyes for what was about to happen as each understood the truth of things yet to come.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

In the dead of the night, Black Wolf rode away from the marauders camp carrying one boy and leading one packhorse with provisions.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe was trapped in the vacuum of his dream as it repeatedly showed Rufus screaming at him, \u201cI don\u2019t wanta haveta tell ya again!\u201d and the man\u2019s heavy hand swinging toward his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The black of night was just beginning lose its grip on the eastern sky when Ben, Adam, and Charlie returned to the front yard to see a worried Hop Sing standing on the porch, shaking his head \u2018no\u2019 in answer to their unasked question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere could he be Pa?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe couldn\u2019t have gone far, Ben. His pinto was still in the barn,\u201d Charlie stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCould he have come back while we were all out looking for him?\u201d Ben inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing would have told us, and he was shaking his head,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe he went to the barn? Adam check the hayloft, see if his pinto is still there. He has to be somewhere,\u201d Ben beseeched.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one find Lit\u2019le Joe,\u201d Hop Sing said as he joined the men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre the men still out looking?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFew come back, get jackets, go back out to look,\u201d replied Hop Sing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, Joe\u2019s not in the barn,\u201d Adam stated as he jogged back to return to the group.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t make any sense\u2026\u201d Hoss answered as he slowly walked into the yard to join his father and brother. \u201cI done checked all the places he hid when he was a kid\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s still a kid,\u201d Adam emphatically answered, pinching the bridge of his nose and holding his elbow with his other hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa know what I mean\u2026 Before he was taken,\u201d Hoss forcefully replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy boys,\u201d warned Ben, knowing their frustrations were surfacing. \u201cThe men took their guns with them; we just have to hope that someone will find him and signal\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDamn!\u201d Charlie muttered as he took off jogging across the yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie?!\u201d the Cartwrights called out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe root cellar!\u201d he yelled, not breaking stride.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hesitating for a moment, in dumbfounded silence, the men followed after Charlie. They rounded the corner of the house to see Charlie examining the ground in front of the doors to the root cellar.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s been here recently, there\u2019s boots print that could only be his,\u201d Charlie stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s right, Pa,\u201d Hoss answered as he knelt down to the ground to examine the prints.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss held out his arm to block his father who leaned forward to climb down the ladder, \u201cPa, let me. I\u2019m the one who done scared him off. I should\u2026 I need to apologize.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Even with the flickering torchlight, Ben saw the depth of anguish visible in his son\u2019s eyes and heard the regret in the large man\u2019s voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, you go first,\u201d stated Adam. \u201cPa and I\u2019ll be right behind you.\u201d Turning to Charlie, \u201cWe\u2019ll let you know if he\u2019s still down there so you can signal the men.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Cautiously, Hoss entered the darkened cellar, followed by Ben and then Adam. He didn\u2019t need light from a torch to locate his brother; all he had to do was listen to the boy\u2019s ragged gasping for breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s here Pa,\u201d Hoss quietly called back to the others.<\/span><\/p>\n

After informing Charlie that his brother was indeed in the root cellar, Adam returned carrying a lantern that Hop Sing had brought to them, and set it on one of the shelves. They all heard Charlie fire three signal shots into the air. He watched as his larger brother cradled their little brother in his arms; speaking in an effort to calm the distraught boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019s havin\u2019 a nightmare, Pa,\u201d Hoss stated. \u201cHe\u2019s just a tremblin\u2019 somethin\u2019 fierce.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCould be he\u2019s cold, let\u2019s get him out of here,\u201d Ben suggested as he approached and knelt in front of two of his sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo pa, this is scared.\u201d Hoss turned his words to Joe, \u201cHey there Little Joe\u2026 Come on boy, wake up for ol\u2019 Hoss. Please?\u201d Hoss lovingly patted the boy\u2019s face in hopes of rousing him from the images that had trapped him in his mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the boy began to surface from his dreams, the expressions on his face changed quickly, leaving his family uncertain as to what was happening. But once his eyes had opened and began to focus, his fear and distrust towards his brother who held him were openly expressed. Tears streamed down his face as he pushed against his largest brother\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay Joe. I\u2019m sorry I yelled at ya earlier. Ya done scared the bejeebers outa me standin\u2019 on your horse like ya done,\u201d crooned Hoss as he continued to apologize and explain. He pulled the boy closer, \u201cI done lost ya for two years and all I could think of was that horse spookin\u2019 and dumpin\u2019 ya, hurtin\u2019 ya or worse. It weren\u2019t \u2018till I was doin\u2019 your chores that I realized my yellin\u2019 at ya like that coulda done what I was scared a happenin\u2019. And then when I realized ya\u2019d run off\u2026 the anger left me, and I got scared all over again. We done lived two years without ya, and I couldn\u2019t go through that again. I cain\u2019t lose ya again, little brother. You\u2019re the heart of this family. But ya gotta remember that each one of us play a part in workin\u2019 this ranch. I know yer just a kid, and playin\u2019 is part of bein\u2019 a kid, but my old heart cain\u2019t take some of your shenanigans. Playin\u2019 is fine, as long as yer jobs are completed, properly. No shirkin\u2019 your responsibilities, no leavin\u2019 a job for Charlie or me to finish\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe neither,\u201d Adam offered in admission, he too had covered for Joe a few times.<\/span><\/p>\n

The oldest brother had knelt beside their father and listened to his brother. He glanced sideways to his father and smirked at the expression he saw, Pa\u2019s raised eyebrows that said, \u201cWe\u2019ll talk about this later.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, do ya understand what I\u2019m sayin\u2019?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry. Don\u2019t beat me. I didn\u2019t mean to\u2026\u201d Joe cried. His hands were balled into fists with his palms facing out, and his arms defensively crossed over his chest. His lower lip trembled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBeat ya? Joe, no one here\u2019s gonna beat you. Now we might tan ya ifn you\u2019re real bad\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, look at me, brother\u2026\u201d Adam asked of him. \u201cWe know you were beaten and whipped, but those were done in anger. We might get angry with you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d Joe cried harder as tears flooded from his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon,\u201d Ben said and placed a hand upon Adam\u2019s arm to refrain him from continuing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, in this family, we love each other unconditionally, and if you deserve a whipping for something you\u2019ve done wrong\u2026 punishment will be administered, will be given to you. I\u2019m hoping the threat of punishment will be a strong enough deterrent\u2026 the threat of punishment will make you think twice before you act or get into trouble. I hope I never have to resort to that, but your actions, what you do will have bearing on what punishment you receive. But understand this Joe, any punishment will NEVER be in anger.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe spoke, but didn\u2019t look to his family. His eyes were focused on past memories, ones he couldn\u2019t forget. \u201cThey whipped me\u2026 Rufus was mean\u2026 worse than the worse tanning Pa ever gave me. I tried to be brave\u2026\u201d Joe pitifully cried. \u201cThey made me do things\u2026 They made me bad\u2026 Made me an outlaw\u2026 I didn\u2019t want to be bad\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you are not bad. No one could ever make you bad; you\u2019ve too kind of a heart to be bad. And we\u2019re so sorry\u2026 We looked for you for a long time.\u201d Adam knew his father wasn\u2019t up to talking. \u201cWe had posters sent all over the place. I had Pinkertons, bounty hunters, anyone I could think of; we hired men to look for you\u2026 We thought they had taken you to Mexico, and then…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know why I wasn\u2019t with them anymore. It took a long time and then I was with the Indians\u2026 they whipped me for talking\u2026\u201d Adam looked to his father for he had not told the elder Cartwright this part of Joe\u2019s story, \u201cI couldn\u2019t ask how to do what they wanted me to do… sometimes they beat me for no reason, maybe someone missed a shot while hunting… The dogs in camp were treated better than me. I dreamed of home\u2026 I wanted the hurting to stop.\u201d Tears fluidly fell down his cheeks. \u201cThey were mean to me all the time. Even the other boys\u2026 I thought if I\u2026 I\u2026 wanted you to come for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked to his brother, his eyes pleading for something, \u201cYou didn\u2019t come.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s not because we didn\u2019t want to\u2026\u201d And so in the dimly lit root cellar Adam explain how they had looked for Joe and ultimately were forced to return home after Adam had been injured. He told of how it was that he had come to find Joe. He explained about a college friend being part of an Army patrol that Joe had thrown a stick at, and the letter the officer had sent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got beat for that\u2026\u201d Joe whispered. \u201cI took a horse and\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGabe said you had a quiver and a bow\u2026\u201d Adam stated. \u201cYou took them without permission?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Head held low, Joe nodded. \u201cI stole them\u2026 I was bad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was smart of you to mark that stick with our brand,\u201d Adam encouraged. \u201cHow\u2026 Can you tell us how you came to be with the warriors that day? The day\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou shot me?\u201d Joe innocently asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Adam lowered his eyes. He felt his father\u2019s hand upon his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI followed the warriors that day. I thought if they\u2019d go near a homestead\u2026 and I could get away. They saw the wagons. I thought if I could show myself to someone in the wagons, they\u2019d see that I was white\u2026 they\u2019d take me home\u2026 I saw the attack. But then the soldiers came\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we came. God, Joe, when I tended to you that night, I was thankful that I hadn\u2019t been true in my aim, I didn\u2019t aimed, I just fired. I was so startled by your proximity, how close you were to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe remembered back, \u201cI saw you run to the rocks where I was, I watched you shoot. I was happy when you shot them. You reloaded fast\u2026 I slipped\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you know who I was?\u201d Adam asked, for some reason he needed to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c…not at first,\u201d Joe admitted. \u201cI saw your eyes\u2026 I knew your eyes.\u201d Joe reached out a hand to touch his brother\u2019s cheek; he ignored the rough stubbles that poked his fingers. \u201cI remembered them from before, but I didn\u2019t know you were my brother. Not until we were at the doctor\u2019s.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think Joe\u2019s been through enough. Let\u2019s get him inside.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss refused to let Joe stand on his own, with his arm still around his brother, Joe looked up at him. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you are Shortshanks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not mad at me, are ya?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, not anymore, but let\u2019s let there not be a next time in pullin\u2019 such a stunt\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss reciprocated the hug he received from his little brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben was the first to climb the ladder and was surprised to see all his hands standing around the backside of the house, waiting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t get them to go back to the bunkhouse. They said they wanted to see for themselves that Joe was okay,\u201d stated Charlie.<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiles broke out on the men\u2019s faces when they saw the youngest Cartwright climb from the cellar entrance. Adam was the last out and closed the doors behind them.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Within fifteen minutes of being settled in bed, Joe was soundly asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s leave him be,\u201d Ben suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill you be okay, Pa?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam knew it was difficult for him to accept what had happened to his brother; he had no idea how difficult it was for a father to accept what had happened to his child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have to be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 24: They Should Have Known<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slept the morning and afternoon away, though it was never a truly peaceful slumber as he twitched and turned, twisting the covers around him. Every time a loved one checked in on him, they straightened out the covers before leaving the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the episode in the cellar, daytime life settled down for the Cartwrights. Joe diligently worked on his schoolwork with Adam, to which the eldest Cartwright was amazed with the improvements he was making. He performed his chores as they were supposed to be completed, and still had time to help his brothers at the breaking corrals as the deadline for the contract with the Army loomed near.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, nights were a totally different matter. The family knew there was more of the story to be told, the dark circles under Joe\u2019s eyes spoke volumes that when he didn\u2019t wake the family with his nightmares, he still wasn\u2019t sleeping deep enough to prevent the images from tormenting him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Many a night Joe found himself awake in his bed, breathing heavily, his heart pounding in his chest. During these times, it was a struggle to keep the tears at bay, praying that his father or brothers had not heard him. He knew he was loved and that he was now safe. However, two years\u2019 worth of abusive memories would not disappear in a matter of weeks, no matter how much he was loved.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Ralph and his family were scheduled to arrive from Lubbock. At the end of breakfast, Ben suggested that Adam and Hoss head over to the cabin to help the family settle in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Joe?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he and I will spend the day fishing,\u201d Ben beamed in anticipation of the outing with his youngest. \u201cHe deserves a little down time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd so do you, Pa. Don\u2019t you forget,\u201d offered Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope you can get him to open up more to you, Pa,\u201d Adam answered before the older brother asked to be excused in order to head out for the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss rode home late in the afternoon, having worked hard at helping the family settle into their new home. In addition to moving belongings, they had also helped fix a few doors that had fallen askew, as well as to help clean out the barn to make it a habitable home for the horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam knew he would be feeling his muscles the next day, and kicked Sport into a slow lope, eager to get home to soak in a long, hot bath, and to hear all about Joe\u2019s day.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The following morning the brothers were sitting on the fence railing, Hoss lightly punched his older brother in the arm after rubbing his own arms to ease the aches. \u201cNext time you unload them trunks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTo each their own specialty, brother,\u201d Adam teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt shore was fun comin\u2019 home last night and listenin\u2019 to Joe talk about him and Pa fishin\u2019.\u201d Hoss smiled at the memory.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a good story teller,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had taken pride in how well Joe had spoken during his oration. Anyone who knew that Adam was teaching Joe might have thought the look on the man\u2019s face was as a teacher appreciating the work being performed by a student, but they would have been wrong. Adam knew how far his brother had come, but what brought the look to his face was seeing a little bit of the five-year old brother he remembered peeking through as the story was told.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s \u2018cause you\u2019ve been such a good teacher to him. Ya know Adam, maybe Pa augta not think about sendin\u2019 him back to school. He seems to take to you workin\u2019 with him so much better than he ever did with the teacher we got in town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs much as I\u2019ve enjoyed working with him and seeing his progress\u2026 He needs to go back. He needs to be with kids his own age.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe looked so alive and happy. Guess that was the medicine he needed, just to spend some time with Pa. Do ya know if he said anythin\u2019 more?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt it. Pa didn\u2019t look too upset last night, and no he didn\u2019t say anything to me after you two went up to bed. I think Pa was just happy to spend some time alone with Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Their attention was drawn to the subject of their conversation as Joe slipped from the saddle and gave a resounding pat to the horse he had just finished putting through its paces.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood job, little brother,\u201d beamed Hoss as he and Adam jumped down from the fence and walked over to where Joe stood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Joe laughed, enjoying the camaraderie with his brothers. \u201cThis one was easy compared to some of the others. He\u2019s begging to learn more.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve done a great job teaching him and the others you\u2019ve ridden,\u201d Adam congratulated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled at his two brothers and their praises.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you head on back to the house and get cleaned up,\u201d Adam suggested. \u201cHoss and I can finish up here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d Joe asked with an easy air about him as he looked from his brothers to his horse standing tethered between Sport and Chubbs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, when ya gonna get around to naming that pony of yours?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026 I remember what I wanted to name him\u2026\u201d Joe allowed his head to fall, indicating his unease.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t ya\u2026\u201d Hoss replied. \u201cIt\u2019s a good name\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to remind Pa\u2026\u201d Joe whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I remember one of the letters you sent me while I was away at college. You seemed pretty excited about the prospect of Pa purchasing you a pinto\u2026 Why not go ahead and name him Cochise\u2026 I\u2019m sure Pa will accept it, you had your heart set on giving that name to your horse for a long time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure Pa won\u2019t mind?\u201d Joe asked, looking up to his oldest brother with hopeful eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll talk to Pa tonight, when we get home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Adam,\u201d Joe smiled as he handed the reins to Ralph who had entered the corral and joined the brothers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo on\u2026 Get!\u201d Hoss teased, taking his brother by the shoulders, turned him around and gently swatted him towards his pinto.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee ya at home!\u201d Joe hollered after swing mounting into the saddle. His turned his horse homeward and without his feet in the stirrups, was quickly into a ground covering gallop.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYee Haw! Let\u2019s go Cochise!\u201d Joe yelled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s sure a fine sight to see\u2026 Don\u2019tcha think so, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and I think it\u2019s time we had a talk with Pa,\u201d Adam broached the subject.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAbout what?\u201d Hoss asked as they began gathering all the equipment to put in the back of the wagon to return to the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBesides telling Pa Joe wants to name his horse after an Apache warrior\u2026 We need to convince Pa to finally let the town know he\u2019s alive\u2026 Maybe inviting some of his former friends over for a visit\u2026 And arrange for him to re-enter school.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa don\u2019t think they know already?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Paul would never have broken Pa\u2019s request on that. And the men know to keep their mouths shut, and they have. They\u2019re loyal to us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know they are. Especially Ralph. Did he really make that bet with you like he done said yesterday?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I did.\u201d Ralph answered as he came up behind the brothers, carrying the saddle from the horse Joe had just worked through its paces. \u201cAin\u2019t proud of what I did, but I learned my lesson. You really are good people.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After watching Ralph leave, Hoss stated, \u201cI cain\u2019t believe he bragged on that tellin\u2019. But it shore were right nice of ya to make him go home and get his family. Them two little \u2018un are cute as a button.\u201d Hoss rubbed his hands together in anticipation as he said, \u201cI cain\u2019t wait to taste one of his misses\u2019 apple pies\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t let Hop Sing hear you,\u201d teased Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Ben answered that night. \u201cHe\u2019s not ready!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not or you\u2019re not?\u201d Adam countered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, ya cain\u2019t hide him here forever,\u201d Hoss answered as he sat in front of the hearth, his hands between his knees.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hiding my son!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen what do you call it?\u201d Adam insisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not ready! When he\u2019s ready, then I\u2019ll think about it.\u201d Ben stared at his oldest and recognized the determined look in his eye. Calmly Ben spoke, \u201cAdam, when he asks about going to town, then I\u2019ll know he\u2019s ready. Until then, I won\u2019t force the issue upon him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about havin\u2019 a few of his school friends over,\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho? We haven\u2019t had anything to do with any of them\u2026\u201d Ben didn\u2019t say why, but both the brothers understood that it just hurt too much to see the other families with their children with whom Joe had gone to school.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI could ask George Devlin\u2026 explain to him about Joe and ask if he could bring Mitch over,\u201d suggested Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s Seth Pruitt\u2026\u201d Hoss added. \u201cHey we can always invite that little gal, Sara.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, seriously!\u201d Ben scolded. \u201cA young girl has no business coming here to visit your youngest brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was just a suggestion,\u201d Hoss replied as he slipped his hands into his pockets.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, Mitch and Seth were Joe\u2019s best friends, you wrote about all the mischief those three got into\u2026 What would it hurt to invite them over?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me think about it\u2026 please,\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, he\u2019s doing so well otherwise,\u201d Adam continued. \u201cI agree that taking him to town might not be in his best interest, right now\u2026 too many people at one time. He doesn\u2019t need the gawkers\u2026 But what harm can there be in inviting over a few of his friends to the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben understood the logic behind his son\u2019s words, but he still wanted to protect his youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, but only after we\u2019ve fulfilled the contract for the Army,\u201d Ben finally relented. \u201cBut just Mitch and Seth, and only if their fathers agree.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both Hoss and Adam smiled, one down.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Major Ronald Hughes, two fellow cavalry soldiers, and two horse wranglers entered the Silver Dollar Saloon and ordered beers. The soldiers went to their own table while the wranglers stayed at the bar.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo this is Virginia City?\u201d the leader of the soldiers stated as he sat down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d the youthful looking soldier answered without much enthusiasm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat time are we supposed to meet these Cartwrights?\u201d the sergeant asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNine o\u2019clock in the morning,\u201d Major Hughes replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, I wonder\u2026 Remember last month\u2026 that civilian who rode with us.\u201d Sergeant Loren Vance stated. \u201cWeren\u2019t his name Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026 Adam Cartwright,\u201d the major answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa think he\u2019s one of these Cartwrights?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProbably.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The soldiers sat relaxing after a long trip to Virginia City. As the evening progressed they ordered a second beer, followed by a third, soon followed by a few shots of whiskey. In time, the two wranglers came to their table to inform the soldiers that they were going to bed down for the night and would meet them in the morning in front of the hotel, to guide them out to the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

As the wranglers left, the freckled faced man with corporal stripes on his sleeve shivered. \u201cAin\u2019t natural\u2026 workin\u2019 with them two\u2026 cain\u2019t tell one\u2026 from the other.\u201d He slurred his speech as he spoke. \u201cOn the way down\u2026 them two seemed a might\u2026 pre\u2026 preoc\u2026occupied about head\u2026 heading out to the Ponder-Osa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeard tell they worked for the Ponderosa some time back,\u201d Major Hughes answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know,\u201d the Sergeant gaffed as he drank from his whiskey, ignoring the comments about the twin-brother wranglers. \u201cWe mighta came all this way for nothin\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhatcha talkin\u2019 about?\u201d asked Corporal Jimmie Kelly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Cartwright took in that breed kid. Think by now that boy\u2019s done scalped them all?\u201d the man laughed out loud. \u201cDon\u2019t know these upstanding folks\u2026 but once an Injun, always an Injun in my book. Heck, maybe these good people already took care a the breed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s an Indian?\u201d asked a man sitting at the next table playing poker with three others.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright\u2026\u201d answered the Sergeant, who paused to issue a deep belch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe ain\u2019t no Indian,\u201d claimed another man sitting at the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not him\u2026 Some breed kid he found last month, claimed it were his brother,\u201d boasted Vance.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The following morning, Orlando and Wren McCloud sat in the saddle and overlooked a sight they hadn\u2019t seen for over a year and a half, the Ponderosa homestead sat in the far distance. They could just make out the main house, bunk house, and barns.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do we arrive at their land?\u201d Corporal Kelly asked, looking a little green.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve been riding on it for over an hour,\u201d Orlando answered. \u201cCome on, we\u2019ll be at the main complex within half an hour.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The brothers signaled their horses into a lope.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon entering the yard, they looked to each other after watching a young boy turn and run to the house. Moments later, Ben Cartwright appeared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOrlando? Wren? My, it\u2019s good to see you two again,\u201d Ben happily exclaimed as he approached; eagerly extending his arms to shake hands with the brothers as they dismounted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright\u2026 Who was that boy?\u201d Wren quietly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA very long story, but that was Joseph,\u201d Ben proudly admitted. \u201cWhat brings you two here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re wranglers for the Army. We\u2019re here to look at those horses and help get them back to the fort,\u201d Orlando answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf they pass muster,\u201d Wren teased, knowing full well the Major would be wasting his time trying to find a way to haggle down the price per horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan you stay a while? I mean, I\u2019d like for you to see Joe\u2026\u201d he quietly spoke so only the brothers could hear him, \u201c\u2026more than just a fleeting image.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see what we can arrange. I\u2019m pretty sure the major won\u2019t want to head out until the morning\u2026 It\u2019ll take him all day to inspect the horses,\u201d Orlando answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, then you\u2019ll stay for supper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Turning to the soldiers, Orlando stated, \u201cMajor Hughes, I\u2019d like to introduce you to Ben Cartwright, owner of the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pleasantries were exchanged and Ben begged a few moments to inform those inside that he would be leaving to go to the breaking corrals.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon his return, he was slightly concerned that Joe had not asked to ride with them, but then he had only told Adam a few days before that Joe was not ready to interact with any people other than those he felt comfortable being around.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The sun shone bright in the late afternoon sky when the major finished his inspection. \u201cWell, Mr. Cartwright, these animals are all exemplary specimens. If this is the quality of horses you provide, and the training, I might just have to see if the colonel would sign an exclusive contract with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The McCloud brothers hid their grins as they looked to each other, understanding how much it cost the major to admit to the quality of horses the Cartwrights turned out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m happy to hear that, I only wish my sons were here. My boys did a lot of the work alongside my wranglers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019d best return to town. I\u2019ll authorize the bank to deposit the draft, in full, into your account, if that\u2019s alright with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Harry knows what to do.\u201d Ben was disappointed that Adam and Hoss had to miss out on meeting the soldiers and to hear the compliment first hand. But this was a working ranch, and with Charlie informing them that Ralph had found one of their herds of cattle had torn down a large section of fence, they rode out with the hands. It would probably take them all day to locate the strays and to fix the fence.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben enjoyed the return trip home, talking with Wren and Orlando on what they had been doing. As they neared the house, the conversation turned to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow long ago did he return home?\u201d Wren asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA little over a month. A friend of Adam\u2019s spotted him and wrote to Adam. Adam was the one who ultimately found him and brought him home.\u201d Ben didn\u2019t feel the need to go into full details. \u201cYou may have to forgive him though\u2026 I\u2019m not sure how he\u2019s going to react to new people around. You\u2019re the first visitors, other than Paul Martin, we\u2019ve had since his return.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t be easy for the boy. I can\u2019t imagine what he went through,\u201d Wren commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy stood at the top of the stairs after being called by Ben; knuckles clinched white to the banister railing as he saw the two strangers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, won\u2019t you come down to say hello to Wren and Orlando McCloud? They used to work for us several years back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi,\u201d Joe quietly called slowly stepping to the mid-landing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s good to see you again,\u201d Orlando called out, a large grin on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, come on down and shake their hands,\u201d suggested Ben, even though he saw the worry in Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve invited the brothers to join us for supper tonight,\u201d Ben stated light-heartedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry, Pa. I\u2026 had a big snack\u2026 a while ago\u2026\u201d Joe stated with hesitation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s alright, Joe.\u201d Orlando turned to Ben. \u201cMr. Cartwright, Wren and I\u2019ll head back into town. Don\u2019t force us on the boy, we know he\u2019s probably been through a lot and not exactly trusting of strangers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for letting us see him,\u201d Wren added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, for understanding\u2026 And I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Ben admitted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, we\u2019ll see you next time, okay?\u201d Orlando called out before they turned to leave. \u201cMr. Cartwright, we saw Sam at the Silver Dollar, he remembered us last night and knew we worked for you. He didn\u2019t say anything about Joe being alive\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve not told anyone. So far, the only one off this ranch who knows he\u2019s alive and home is Paul\u2026 and now you two.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll keep quiet,\u201d Orlando offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wren nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you will. It was a great loss to the ranch when you two left.\u201d Ben looked to each brother, and said, \u201cBut we all understood why you felt the need to leave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe appreciate that. We\u2019ll be back early with the solders pick up the herd tomorrow,\u201d Orlando stated as they turned to leave.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go ahead and give you the bill of sale, just have the major give the deposit slip to Dusty. He\u2019s almost as good as you boys\u2026\u201d Ben walked to his desk, pulled a sheet of paper from the drawer and handed it to the oldest brother. \u201cIt was good to see you two again. If you ever do need a job\u2026 you\u2019ll always be welcome on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The rumors began with one conversation in the saloon which spread to another. Word slowly made its way around Virginia City that Joe Cartwright was alive and at home. But the worst part of the entire matter was that the gossips latched onto the fact of where he had been found and how he had been living. In public as well as at home, people talked in hushed voice; not of pity for the boy\u2019s suffering, but how could Ben accept him back home.<\/span><\/p>\n

To those with school-age children the discussion turned to what would happen if Ben decided the boy should return to school. Parents of small children made sure their youngsters were in bed asleep before talking. Parents of older school-age children spoke openly in their homes.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Sixteen year old Billy Trumble and the boys who looked up to him, met behind the livery and they passed around a bottle of whiskey. Their conversation centered on the subject they had overheard from their parents \u2013 Joe Cartwright.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a breed\u2026 nothing but a stinkin\u2019 injun,\u201d Clay Addison stated as he spit on the ground before taking a large gulp from the upturned bottle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t have him sticking around\u2026 Living here\u2026 None of the girls in town will be safe,\u201d Chester Lawrence stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Morten Hoffman stated, \u201cGirls, what about us? My Pa was telling my Ma that he\u2019d end up killing us in our beds, slitting our throats before scalping us.\u201d His hand wrapped protectively around this neck with one hand while reaching for the bottle with the other.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The whiskey propelled the boys into action; their conversation died and their bluster ran high. The empty whiskey bottle fell abandoned to the ground as the boys walked to their horses, mounted up and rode out.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

On a rise overlooking a large expanse of grassland, the five boys sat mounted and watched.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee, just like my Pa said, he\u2019s injun\u2026 Riding one of their spotted ponies too,\u201d Pete Chipson pointed to the figure putting a pinto horse through its paces.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe beamed over what he had accomplished with his pinto that morning. They were resting as he allowed his pinto to drink at a stream that threaded its way through the grassland. He praised Cochise for being so responsive and giving him the thrill of riding such a fine animal.<\/span><\/p>\n

The youth tensed at the sound of the riders; he turned to look and didn\u2019t recognize any of them. Nervous, he reached for the reins; torn between riding away from these intruders or to greet them. He knew that eventually he would have to face others from town; and so he calmed himself, thinking how proud his father would be when he told him the news.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the riders approached they all dismounted and walked toward him, sizing him up, or down as one of the boys taunted. Another began calling him a papoose; another called him a filthy injun lover. They each took turns pushing and shoving him; pretending to be Indians by holding one hand over their head as if their fingers were feathers in a headband, while the other hand was moved rapidly back and forth in front of their mouth, mimicking a war cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet out of here, breed!\u201d Clay ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re only here to protect our families, can\u2019t have the likes of you around, waiting to sneak in and slit our throats as we sleep,\u201d Morten yelled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe attempted to defend himself, calling out that he wasn\u2019t an Indian and pushing back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Billy Trumble fisted his hand and punched the smaller boy, knocking him backwards to the ground. Joe felt his lip split and tasted his own blood, as his neck snapped sideways from the blow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rushing to his feet, their words, their accusations and actions drove home to him all that he had suffered through, but now he was being assaulted by whites. The anger and hurt from the images that he had refused to talk about with his family bubbled up to the surface. Unable to contain the fury that had welled within him for two years\u2026 Joe struck back. Not with words, but with his fists. Anger at the separation from his family, anger at being barred from speaking, forced to work day in and day out harder than a dog, and punished for being different. He took his rage out on those standing in front of him as he threw punch after punch, putting all his weight behind each strike.<\/span><\/p>\n

The splatter of blood from Billy Trumble\u2019s nose only drove Joe to a greater rage; with another blow they all heard the crack of bone in the boy\u2019s face. The other boys tried to pull the combatants apart as Joe kept pressing the attack. As they pulled Joe away, his fists were directed at the ones trying to restrain him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Eventually, the others managed to keep their distance and at the same time hurriedly helped Billy to his feet. The older boy ran while holding a hand to his broken, bloody nose. Joe spat out every vile insult that had been yelled at him for two lonely years; he shrieked at the retreating figures, throwing stones and rocks in their direction. The boys made their way to where they\u2019d left their horses and galloped away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stopped, chest heaving, body taunt, fisted hands held away from his body by rigid arms bent at the elbows, he threw his head back and let out a gut-wrenching, blood-curdling scream. In a blind rage, he ran for Cochise, and kicked him into a gallop, guiding his horse faster over the land. Tears blinded his vision but still he urged his mount to a greater speed.<\/span><\/p>\n

In time, he realized his horse was slowing as they approached a beautiful body of water. He dismounted his pinto, ignoring the heaving flanks of the horse as the reins fell slack from his hands. He saw the promontory\u2026 the crystal clear water just beyond. He wanted to wash away everything\u2026 The whole time since the attack by those boys he had felt driven to this spt, but didn\u2019t understand why he had ridden there, until he saw them. Without conscious thought Joe fell to his knees in front of the grave markers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe traced the letters comprising his name on the black stone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joseph Francis Cartwright<\/span>
\n Loving Son and Brother<\/span>
\n Taken too soon<\/span>
\n May he Rest in Peace<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears readily slipped from Joe\u2019s eyes, streamed down his face to drip onto his pant legs. Grief consumed the boy for what he had lost, he wanted to be home, but this wasn\u2019t home\u2026 He never knew they believed him dead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Images of the last conversation he\u2019d had with Adam before he left to go to college pressed into his memory; his brother had promised to return\u2026 Pa, Hoss, and Hop Sing said it would take time for him to come home. Why hadn\u2019t Adam returned home to protect him?<\/span><\/p>\n

Turning to the second headstone, Joe stood, his shoulders heaving as he cried.<\/span>
\n He grew angry at the broken promises as he looked to the tan headstone bearing the name of his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMomma, Adam said he\u2019d return. You said you\u2019d return. You promised!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lashed out at the granite monolith that marked his mother\u2019s final resting place, striking the rock over and over again with his fists. Slowly he stopped abusing his hands; raising his head he looked to the sky.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYOU PROMISED!!\u201d Joe screamed in a fit of rage, humiliation, and hurt.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Dusk was falling by the time Ben, Adam, and Hoss rushed into the front room of Paul Martin\u2019s clinic, worry and concern etched their faces.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul?\u201d Ben breathed out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMitch Devlin found him on the road to Virginia City and brought him to town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMitch\u2026 but he lives on the other side of town from us,\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe evidently heard the boys talking\u2026 It was quite a shock to him\u2026 Joe\u2019s return. He wanted to see for himself, so he headed out to the Ponderosa. They were best friends at school.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul?\u201d Ben\u2019s tone of voice indicated he knew Mitch had been Joe\u2019s best friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul began to explain, \u201cBilly Trumble was in here earlier this afternoon with a broken nose; the others have split lips or possible bruised ribs. I\u2019d say you can expect a visit from Sheriff Biggs if you\u2019ve not already seen him. Trumble\u2019s father was furious over Joe beating up his son, and I can only imagine the fathers of the others.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t follow\u2026\u201d Ben stated, his worry made concentrating nearly impossible. Besides, how did the story go from Joe\u2019s best childhood friend to a group of bullies?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFrom what I\u2019ve learned, somehow word has spread that Joe is alive and back on the Ponderosa, there\u2019s also talk of where he\u2019s been for the past two years. I can only imagine what parents are saying behind closed doors and what their sons have overheard. The group of boys that runs with Trumble is a rough crowd.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThose boys are fifteen, sixteen years old,\u201d Adam stated, thinking of the rough crowd of miners\u2019 sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrue, but each one of the boys backed the other up that it was Joe who punched Billy as well as caused their own injuires,\u201d Paul answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut why\u2019d they be on the Ponderosa? Joe ain\u2019t left the Ponderosa since he come home, so that means they\u2019d a been there. Them boys got no call to be on the Ponderosa\u2026\u201d Hoss stated,<\/span><\/p>\n

He also knew that Joe had never been friends with any of them. Even without Joe saying something, Hoss had known that this group of boys had tormented his brother during his time at school.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s where each and every one of them won\u2019t say where they were when it happened,\u201d Paul answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Mitch Devlin doesn\u2019t run with that crowd, he\u2019s Joe\u2019s age,\u201d Adam said, but looked to his father for confirmation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMitch came in to pick up a prescription for his little sister\u2026 I guess he overheard the boys. I presume he hadn\u2019t heard any of the rumors that Joe was home until today, so he rode out to the ranch\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow long have these rumors been floating around?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. I don\u2019t know who started it, or how\u2026 I only learned of it this morning when Billy and the others came in.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBack to Joe, please,\u201d Ben stated in exasperation that the story kept being diverted away from his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul contemplated exactly what to say to his patient\u2019s family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs he okay? Ralph only said that he was here,\u201d Ben voiced. He knew from the expression on his ranch hand\u2019s face that something was terribly wrong when he ran his horse into the yard and jumped down. Ben had been working at the table on the deck and heard the rider coming long before he saw him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRalph was down at the hardware store when he saw Mitch leading Joe on his horse. The boy just sat there in his saddle, so.. Ralph carried the boy inside. Mitch said he found Joe, sitting on his pinto at the crossroads. Just sitting there. I hate to say this, but he\u2019s not okay\u2026 I think Joe\u2019s had some kind of an emotional breakdown. He\u2019s also broke bones in both his hands\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe hit Billy Trumble and the others that hard?\u201d Hoss asked in disbelief.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not Billy. He\u2019s struck something hard, much harder, numerous times; flesh and bones won\u2019t damage a person\u2019s hands like this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to see him,\u201d Ben stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul needed to warn his friend about what lay behind the door; he didn\u2019t think the man understood or heard him say anything about an emotional breakdown. \u201cBen, he\u2019s retreated within himself\u2026 He won\u2019t answer me or Mitch or even Vernon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou let Sheriff Biggs in here?!\u201d Adam was appalled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had to, I had to only so that he could see for himself that Joe was in no condition to be removed from here. At least not until you arrived.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRemoved from here?\u201d Ben asked. \u201cWhy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAngus Trumble was demanding that Joe be placed in jail,\u201d Sheriff Vernon Biggs spoke from behind the family as he made his presence known.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy son\u2026 He\u2019s just a child! He does NOT belong IN JAIL!\u201d Ben bellowed for emphasis.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know and I agree\u2026 I couldn\u2019t believe it\u2026 what the boys told me\u2026 How long has he been home? How?\u201d Vernon asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA little over a month,\u201d Adam coldly answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Momentarily thinking back over the past few months and remembering Adam\u2019s absence, \u201cYour trip\u2026 you brought your brother home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the rumors around town are true?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what rumors are being spread, but what happened to Joe doesn\u2019t concern this town. For God\u2019s Sake, he\u2019s just a child! And if what happened to him,\u201d Adam pointed toward the doorway where he was sure his brother lay behind, \u201care because of some rumor\u2026\u201d Adam struggled to control the phrasing of his words. \u201cHe\u2019ll be thirteen years old this fall and those boys, three to four years older than him came to the Ponderosa, to his home, for what?! So what if they got pummeled? Good for Joe!\u201d vented Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

None of the Cartwright, nor Paul, could believe that this happened just when life appeared to be returning to normal for the family. Rumors, the one thing they had wanted so desperately to prevent\u2026 Rumors had spread regardless of their best intentions and had incited bullies to the Ponderosa, and no one had been there to protect Joe. The first day they had finally felt comfortable to allow him to ride out on his own.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAfter Doc bandages his hands, I think it would be best if you were to take him home,\u201d Vernon answered. \u201cAngus can stir up trouble with some of the other miners.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly if Paul says going home would be in the best interest for my son. I\u2019ll not jeopardize my son\u2019s health, not again. Not for you or this town!\u201d declared Ben. Jabbing the lawman in the chest. \u201cAnd believe me, when I say, if those boys ever set one foot on my land, I\u2019ll\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, don\u2019t do anything you\u2019ll regret\u2026\u201d cautioned the lawman.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t regret defending my family!\u201d Ben stared hard at the man. \u201cThere are four other boys who run around with Trumble; I plan to file a complaint against all of them once I\u2019ve taken care of Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be in my office when you calm down.\u201d Biggs stated, realizing things were not going to get any better.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCalm down?\u201d Adam\u2019s eyes grew colder as he slipped his revolver from his holster. \u201cI\u2019ll show you and anyone else \u2018calm\u2019 when it comes to defending my brother. Now you just do your job and spread the word, unless personally invited, no one is welcome on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Knowing the situation needed to be defused, Paul cleared his throat, \u201cBen, if you and your boys would come this way, I think it would be best for Joe if all three of you were in the room when he wakes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor Joe,\u201d Adam stated. Slipping his gun back into his holster, he turned from the lawman.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 25: Awakened Heartache<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The family entered one of the recovery rooms on the side of the doctor\u2019s clinic. Ben pulled up a chair to be close to his son who appeared to be sleeping in the bed. The ashen pallor of his face almost blended in with the white of the sheet the boy laid upon. Adam walked over to lean against the window sill, looking out to the people who gathered around the doctor\u2019s surgery. Hoss stood at the foot of the bed, looking as if he\u2019d lost his best friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

Gently lifting one of his son\u2019s hands, Ben assessed the damage done, the bruises and torn skin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have no idea what he hit, Ben\u2026 I\u2019m sure he didn\u2019t use his fists on any trees, I\u2019ve soaked and cleaned the abrasions as best I can and didn\u2019t find any slivers of wood fibers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow bad are the breaks,\u201d Adam asked turning to those in the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMost of them are probably only fractures, but I am concerned about the large knuckle of his right hand\u2026 It feels like a complete break.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Paul set out the wooden slats and gauze wrappings, Ben felt inadequate; he slipped into the bed, legs stretched out as he leaned against the headboard. The worried father wrapped his arms around Joe as if offering protection and comfort, all the while gathering him close.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, please slip off his shirt,\u201d Paul requested. \u201cHe won\u2019t be able to get it off over the bandages when I\u2019m through.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It had been weeks since he had seen his son shirtless and was pleased that the bruises had faded, but there were still the scars left from the lashes that had torn into his young flesh.<\/span><\/p>\n

Without a sound, Joe\u2019s movements were like that of a rag doll as his father positioned him, making sure the boy\u2019s head was snuggled into his the crook of his shoulder. He intently watched as Paul aligned the broken bone in the one hand before carefully bandaging one damaged hand and then the other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m working the bandages so that he\u2019ll still have some use of the fingers of his left hand, to address personal needs and to eat, but nothing else,\u201d advised Paul.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow long\u2019s he gonna sleep,\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not sleeping, he\u2019s in shock right now,\u201d explained Paul.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor how long?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t say. I hope once you get him home, he will fall asleep and by morning he\u2019ll be back to his old self\u2026\u201d Paul accepted the words he had spoken as being a mistake, but he\u2019d already said them. \u201cBen, I presume since I\u2019ve not had to make any calls to the ranch that life has been settling down for you and the boys. I can only hope that this episode is quickly forgotten. We can only pray that maybe he\u2019ll totally forget it even happened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the chance of that?\u201d the pragmatist in Adam needed to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot as good as I\u2019d like it to be\u2026 especially with these hands as a reminder.\u201d Paul indicated the boy\u2019s hands. \u201cHopefully he\u2019ll forget this just like\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe hasn\u2019t forgotten anything Paul\u2026\u201d Ben admitted as he nestled his cheek to the top of his son\u2019s head. \u201cWe\u2019ve had some fairly traumatic times since you were last out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s he handling them?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRunning away\u2026 Nightmares\u2026\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHas he talked?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam answered, \u201cNot enough, not in full detail, just enough to placate us. He\u2019s smart enough to know what he needs to say will hurt us and so he keeps the worst to himself. Like he tried to that first morning home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul remembered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can stay here for the night, or if you\u2019d like, I can arrange at the livery for a wagon so you can transport Joe home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Adam curtly answered. \u201cI\u2019ll ride on home and get our wagon. I don\u2019t want to be beholden to any of the good people in this town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Doctor Martin didn\u2019t take the comment personally; he knew Adam hurt was talking in generalities and not specifics.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned to face the window, scowling at the people who waited outside. As much as they had tried to prevent it, Joe had become a curiosity.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

As they left town, Adam drove the wagon while Ben sat in back with his youngest resting against his chest. Before leaving the Ponderosa, Adam had made sure the floor of the wagon was well-laden with straw and covers to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Buck and Cochise were tied to the tailgate, while Hoss brought up the rear riding Chubbs. The elder sons looked straight ahead as the wagon slowly made its way out of Virginia City; ignoring the stares of the people who lined the street during the late night hours. Ben only had eyes for the baby of his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

Those who stood on the periphery and watched as the precious burden had been transferred from the surgery to his conveyance home quietly whispered. \u201cHe\u2019s just a child\u2026\u201d \u201cPoor boy\u2026\u201d \u201cGod help Ben and the boys\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Even though the hour was after midnight, Charlie and Hop Sing were there to meet the Cartwrights as they returned home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m sorry that I missed you when you came back for the wagon. Ralph told me the doc sent for you, said Joe was there. What happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie, I\u2019ll tell you later, but first, I want you to pass the word to every hand\u2026 no one, and I mean no one is welcome on the Ponderosa. If we have business dealings, we\u2019ll advise the hands who to expect. The only one who had a free pass will be Doctor Paul Martin.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat of the sheriff?\u201d Charlie asked as he stood to the side and watched Hop Sing gather the blanket that had fallen from the back of the wagon as Hoss lifted his brother to carry him inside and to his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I could ban Biggs, too. But he is the law. From here on out, the hands ride in pairs, no one works alone. They find anyone trespassing, they are to be brought to the house for us to deal with,\u201d Adam answered, his anger barely contained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see that the word gets spread.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen that\u2019s done, come inside,\u201d Adam stated as he turned to follow his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam entered the house, not bothering with removing his hat or his gunbelt; he walked to the round table and poured himself a large glass of brandy. He looked up after several swallows when he heard footsteps on the landing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019d the kid really do on the way home? I tried to drive as careful as I could.\u201d Adam\u2019s anger still seethed in his words.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill in shock I suppose. Adam, he looked even more pathetic lying up there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright need sleep,\u201d Hop Sing stated as he walked down the stairs carrying the boy\u2019s dirty clothing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe won\u2019t sleep until he knows that Joe\u2019s gonna be fine,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie knocked and entered the house, giving a curt nod to confirm the order was given.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave a seat Charlie\u2026\u201d Adam offered. \u201cCare for a drink\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie hesitated in accepting. It was one thing to drink in town together at the Buck O\u2019 Blood or the Silver Dollar or even at the end of a cattle drive, but for Adam to offer him a drink in the house, he decided to accept because the news couldn\u2019t be that good.<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie\u2019s anger paralleled that of the family by the time he walked across the yard and to the bunk house; sleep eluded him throughout the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the hands were beginning to head out for the morning, his anger reinforced the orders\u2026 \u201cNO TRESSPASSERS! And if there are\u2026 BRING THEM HERE!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss sat at the breakfast table, picking at their food. Both looked up when they heard their father walk across the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Shortshanks?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSleeping\u2026 He finally fell asleep about an hour ago,\u201d Ben mournfully answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, if you\u2019d like to get some sleep, I\u2019ll stay with Joe,\u201d offered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like for one of you to stay with him. I need to go out\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere ya goin\u2019 Pa?\u201d Hoss asked as he stopped lifting the coffee cup mid-way to his mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOut\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I don\u2019t think that\u2019s such a good idea\u2026 We\u2019ve warned the men about riding out alone, advised they ride in pairs,\u201d Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is something I need to do\u2026 alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben walked to the sideboard, wrapped his gun belt around his waist before buckling it and tying the holster to his thigh. After reaching for his hat he opened the door and was gone.<\/span><\/p>\n

The brothers looked to each other and shrugged their shoulders when the sounds of hoof beats retreated from the yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m gonna go sit with Joe,\u201d Hoss stated as he pushed back his chair and made his way out of the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The night had been long and lonely. Any time one of his sons had been sick or injured he had wished for the comfort of a wife, someone to share in his grief, someone who could help him face a situation no parent wished upon their child, regardless of their age. But as it had been for years, there was no warmth to share his bed or his sorrow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Buck had been sluggish to leave his stable mates so early in the day but with quick jab in the flanks by his rider\u2019s heels, he ambled out of the yard and obeyed as the man guided him out onto the road away from the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben rode to the one place where he hoped he could receive the solace he sought, the one place he felt closest to his late wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my God\u2026\u201d gasped Ben. \u201cHe saw his grave\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stood in shock upon seeing the tombstone, erroneously marking the grave that they had thought to be a member of their family. Guilt assailed him that in their joy of Joe\u2019s return they had forgotten; the stark truth that Joe had been there was indicated by the dried blood that stained the headstone over his mother\u2019s grave.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026\u201d Ben cried as he stumbled over the ground. \u201cMarie\u2026 Help me reach our son. Help me prove to him that his is loved.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

With heels to flanks, he urged Buck onward, panicked to return home to explain, if he could.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Adam stated upon Ben\u2019s return and explanation of what he\u2019d found. \u201cI\u2026 I\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not the only one who forgot about the grave, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have a couple of the hands help dig up the coffin\u2026\u201d Hoss stated. \u201cWhat\u2019ll we do with it, afterwards\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll pay to have the boy buried in the Virginia City cemetery,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, you and Adam go to town, talk to Mortimer\u2026 Ask him to have his associates come to remove the coffin, and as Adam indicated, the Ponderosa will pay to have the boy reinterred in cemetery in town. Also ask Mortimer if he would please see to restoring Marie\u2019s headstone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Worryingly, Ben mounted the steps\u2026 for once\u2026 he passed by his son\u2019s room and headed to his own. He needed time to face the truth.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss quietly rode into Virginia City, careful not to ride down Main Street. They dismounted and tied their horses at the back entrance to the undertaker\u2019s establishment.<\/span><\/p>\n

After explaining all that needed done and paying for services to be performed, they left just as surreptitiously as they arrived.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The sun progressed across the afternoon sky and announced the arrival of evening, and blissfully Joe didn\u2019t feel the hurt of his hands, the oblivion of sleep brought a blessed relief as Joe dreamed of his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Marie sang or hummed songs to him, taking him on picnics where he picked wild flowers for her. He dreamed of her twirling his locks of hair around her fingers. He remembered tugging her along behind him as he tried to hurry across the yard and out to the corral to show her a new horse.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He smiled as she called him her precious little man. He remembered her smell as she carried him to his bed, his head nuzzled at her neck.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Happy images of laughter and playing flowed like a river over boulders, eager to go on to the next. He had promised and watched a she rode away, waving her hand in goodbye, a smile on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

He should have been asleep, but was so eager for the candy he had been promised. When she returned, he stood up on the chair in front of his window and saw her returning, running her horse into the yard, with a happy smile on her face. Until\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMOMMA!\u201d Joe woke screaming, shaking those who heard him to the core.<\/span><\/p>\n

Downstairs in the dining room, Ben dropped the coffee cup and saucer; shattering the china and spilling the brandy laced warm milk to the floor. He\u2019d hoped the concoction would calm his nerves.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the bedroom room at the head of the stairs, Adam bolted forward from resting back in the chair next to the bed; his attempts to calm his brother were rebuffed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss charged across the hallway from his room, wearing only his pants and socks, as he had been preparing for bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben heard the arguing as he ran up the stairs, Joe shouting for Adam to go away, \u201cDON\u2019T TOUCH ME!\u201d As their father entered the room, Adam was backing away from his brother\u2019s bed, allowing Hoss, who had entered the room only moments before, to gather the boy in his arms and comfort him. \u201cHOSS!\u201d Joe screamed out, struggling against the one for whom he had cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s this all about?\u201d Ben asked as he stopped to take in the scene.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure. He looked to be finally dreaming peacefully\u2026 Next thing I know he\u2019s screaming for Marie, and he didn\u2019t want anything to do with me\u2026\u201d Adam stated; the features on his face plainly expressed his confusion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Pa\u2026\u201d cried Joe, struggling through bandaged hands to grab onto the arms which held him, having never once opened his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben walked to the bed and placed a hand on Joe\u2019s back, all the while Hoss rocked him, neither able to make out the words the youngest spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 26: They Would Dare\u2026<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben whispered close to his son\u2019s ear. \u201cWe\u2019re here son\u2026 we\u2019re here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Sniffling, Joe quietly cried, \u201cMomma promised\u2026 Adam promised\u2026 They promised, they promised.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did they promise, son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot home\u2026 not home\u2026\u201d Joe barely spoke. \u201cWanna go home\u2026 Pa\u2026 Hoss\u2026”<\/span><\/p>\n

Moments passed and Joe\u2019s mumbling stopped and he lay limp in Hoss\u2019 arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s sleeping, Pa\u2026\u201d Hoss stated as he laid his brother back down and pulled the covers up over him. \u201cWhat was he talkin\u2019 about?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026 something about promises and not home\u2026\u201d a confused Ben answered as he turned to sit on the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Placing Joe\u2019s bandaged hands under the covers, Hoss asked, \u201cPa, do you think we should send for Doc and get him back out?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026 Maybe we should just let him sleep. I\u2019m sure Paul will be out tomorrow to check his hands.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In the background Adam waited, his soul a little wounded that his brother had pushed him away. \u2018What happened? What are you remembering, Joe?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had left his father and brother to tend to the youngest Cartwright; he knew that work needed to be done around the homestead. He needed the distraction to figure out what had happened and how to proceed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Crossing the yard from the barn to the water trough, Adam halted upon hearing hoof beats.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? We done found these three trying to sneak onto the Ponderosa. They were about three miles from the house,\u201d Ralph explained as Adam watched the men who squirmed in their saddles.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSheriff Biggs spread the word that the Ponderosa is off limits unless personally invited, and I know we didn\u2019t invite any of you\u2026\u201d Adam tensed when he recognized Billy Trumble\u2019s father in the group.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have every right to defend my son!\u201d glared the large miner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDefend yes, when your son was being attacked. But from what I understand, my little brother was only defending himself against five boys older, larger than he. Maybe if you\u2019d taught your son manners and respect for other\u2019s he wouldn\u2019t have found himself being beat up by a twelve year old child,\u201d seethed Adam. \u201cAre you turning vigilante? Do you three think you can succeed where his son failed? Won\u2019t that make juicy gossip at the Buck O\u2019 Blood. The three of you, miners by trade, ganging up on child who hasn\u2019t even reached his teen years, won\u2019t the town just love that news.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou got no right!\u201d Angus vented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have every right. You\u2019re trespassing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think you Cartwrights are something special\u2026\u201d Angus spat on the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are,\u201d Adam answered coldly. He stepped back, encouraging the man to step down from his horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

Angus rushed Adam, looking to encircle his waist, driving the man to the ground. Though the man was a miner and used to fighting, he had never witnessed the eldest Cartwright son in a fight, figured it was beneath the man\u2019s college education.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ralph watched as Adam deftly side stepped the enraged man and offered a jab to the side of the man\u2019s rib cage. The miner kept his balance and twirled around, one fist held in front of him as he cocked the other in preparation of a blow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam felt the breeze skim past his face as he evaded the punch, and delivered his own blow to the man\u2019s exposed jaw that crumpled the big man to the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

With eyebrows raised, Ralph picked up the bucket next to the trough and in one swoop, filled it with water. Walking over, his face inquired if Adam wanted to pleasure of drowning the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sputtering, Angus Trumble regained consciousness, looking up at the black figure who held an upturned bucket over him. With his eyes unfocused, he swayed from side to side as he attempted to rise to his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Turning to the Ponderosa hands, \u201cRalph get him on his horse and then get their hands tied to their saddle horns. I\u2019ll ride with you to take these men to Virginia City and turn them over to the sheriff.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat for?\u201d demanded one of the miners who rode with Angus Trumble. \u201cWe ain\u2019t done nothing. We didn\u2019t even get anywhere near the kid until your men brought us here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrespassing for starters. I\u2019ll see if Biggs can figure out any other charges, maybe inciting to inflict bodily harm.\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was colder than ice.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie entered the house several hours after Adam had left, and asked Hop Sing for either Hoss or Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright with numba three son. I see if Mr. Hoss come.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho is it, Hop Sing?\u201d Hoss called from the top of the stairs. Upon seeing their foreman he made his way down the steps and across the floor to where Charlie waited. \u201cI heard riders\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss.\u201d Charlie removed his hat at the large man\u2019s approach. \u201cI know Adam said no visitors, and he and Ralph took those three miners who were trying to sneak out here to town earlier, but I didn\u2019t think you\u2019d mind this group we found coming up the main road.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019d ya find?\u201d Hoss inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGeorge and Mitch Devlin, as well as the reverend\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo problem, I\u2019ll come out to see what they want.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss followed Charlie out the doorway and stopped on the wooden porch.<\/span><\/p>\n

Having tied their horses to the hitching rails in the front yard, the small group was making their way to the entrance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u201d George Devlin called out, his hand upon his young son\u2019s shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Devlin, Mitch, Reverend Hamilton,\u201d Hoss greeted with tolerance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMitch came home yesterday late afternoon, he told me and his Ma what happened, that he found Joe out on the road. Said the boy wasn\u2019t doing too good, said he took him to the doctor\u2019s surgery where one of your men helped get the boy inside.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re beholding to young Mitch there for helping Joe,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know he was alive\u2026 I heard Trumble\u2019s cronies whimpering at Doc\u2019s and I just had to ride out to see for myself. Is he okay? He acted like he didn\u2019t know who I was\u2026\u201d Mitch stated in a rambling fashion. He\u2019d always been leery of the size of Joe\u2019s older brother, even though the man had never looked at him crossly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss answered, \u201cIt\u2019s a long story, but he\u2019s alive and home.\u201d He didn\u2019t offer an invitation to come inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I can\u2019t imagine what your family has endured,\u201d Reverend Hamilton offered. \u201cIf I can be of any comfort to you and your family or to the child\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI appreciate your coming out here, but\u2026\u201d Hoss was distracted by the arrival of Doc Martin\u2019s buggy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Greetings were exchanged, and finally Hoss invited everyone into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I go up and see Joe?\u201d Mitch asked. His eyes strayed to look up the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s wait to see what Doc Martin has to say,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing entered the room bearing a tray with lemonade and sandwiches.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake time talk, listen. They mean only good,\u201d Hop Sing whispered to Hoss before leaving the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?!\u201d Ben called from the mid-landing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, Mr. Devlin and Reverend Hamilton came by\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGentlemen\u2026\u201d Ben replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen,\u201d was returned in greeting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs there anything Martha or I can do to help?\u201d George offered. \u201cIt came as a shock last night when Mitch told us everything that happened yesterday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Reverend Hamilton followed up the offer, \u201cBen, if you need to talk, you know anything you tell me will be held in the strictest of confidence. Even though we\u2019re not Catholic, I\u2019ll hold what you tell me as if it were said in confession.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have nothing to confess,\u201d huffed Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen I was not implying that you\u2019ve done anything wrong, only that should you wish to talk, I\u2019m here to listen and your concerns will go no farther,\u201d Reverend Hamilton explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Reverend. If you\u2019ll forgive me\u2026 We\u2019ve be under a lot of stress.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease Ben, shall we be seated while we await the doctor\u2019s prognosis of young Joseph?\u201d suggested the good reverend.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone was seated, Ben gave a brief account of Joe\u2019s return. He honestly answered the questions surrounding the rumors floating through town.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd now Trumble and his buddies have inflicted more trauma upon the youth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, there was a fight among the boys, but the real trauma was unfortunately inflicted upon my son by his family\u2026\u201d Ben acknowledged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, there\u2019s no way you could harm that child,\u201d George piped up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did without meaning to\u2026 George\u2026 Reverend, you were here a year and a half ago\u2026 We thought we\u2019d buried Little Joe next to his mother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The reverend gasped, now understanding that there was an unnamed child buried upon the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn our joy of Joe\u2019s return\u2026 We never had the tombstone removed, we honestly forgot all about it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll talk with Mortimer\u2026\u201d Reverend Hamilton offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam and Hoss went back to town yesterday to make the arrangements, I\u2019ll pay your fees to say a few words when he\u2019s buried in the town\u2019s cemetery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo need Ben, it\u2019s the least I can do\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Mitch stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Softening his voice, Ben answered, \u201cEvidently sometime between when Joe had his fight with Trumble and your finding him on the road, Joe rode to his mother\u2019s grave and saw his own grave. Something happened and he\u2026 he took his emotions out on the headstone to his mother\u2019s grave\u2026 I rode out this morning and found his blood on the monument.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe poor child,\u201d Reverend Hamilton murmured.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why he was just sitting there?\u201d Mitch inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know exactly why, but yes\u2026 that\u2019s as good a reason as any.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, how long has the boy been home?\u201d Reverend Hamilton inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOver a month, closer to five weeks\u2026 I guess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd this is the first anything has been heard about the child\u2019s return?\u201d the reverend asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Reverend, but Joe has suffered and we only wanted to protect him from people not understanding,\u201d defended Ben. \u201cThe way the people treated his burial\u2026 My family\u2019s affairs are our own\u2026 I\u2019ll not have the good citizens of Virginia City make a mockery of my son being alive.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand Ben, but you do have friends in this town,\u201d Reverend Hamilton answered. \u201cFriends who will and have defended your family, whether you know it or not. George and Martha Devlin are fine examples.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Upstairs Hop Sing scurried about the boy\u2019s room and realized that green eyes were following him around the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow you feel, Lit\u2019le Joe?\u201d Hop Sing asked as he cautiously approached the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine\u2026 When\u2019d I hurt my hands?\u201d Joe asked, wincing as he pulled his hands from under the covers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have accident, Doctor Martin leave room a lit\u2019le while ago\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa and Hoss\u2019ll be mad at me\u2026 I\u2019m sorry I didn\u2019t mind you or Charlie\u2026\u201d Joe whispered as he laid his hands on top of the covers. \u201cHop Sing, when\u2019ll Adam come home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam home later this afternoon,\u201d the houseman answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally? What about Pa and Hoss? Do they know?\u201d Joe eagerly asked, temporarily forgetting the aches in his hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFatha and brotha downstairs\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen did they get home?\u201d Joe inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFatha and brotha brought you home\u2026 Hop Sing go tell others you wake. You stay in bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 27 \u2013 Acceptance<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The houseman waited for the men in the great room to finish their conversation before he interrupted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me, Mr. Cartwright, Honorable Doctor. Lit\u2019le Joe wake, ask of fatha and brothas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Paul climbed the stairs to the second floor. Hoss stayed with their guests who promptly excused themselves after making a last offering of any assistance before leaving.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

When his father and the doctor entered his room, Joe was struggling to keep his eyes open. He smiled and quietly answered their smiling faces with, \u201cGlad you made it home, Pa. I missed you,\u201d before sleep claimed him again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen he\u2019s out, he\u2019s out,\u201d Paul smiled as he finished taking the boy\u2019s pulse as the boy\u2019s breathing evened out indicating sleep. \u201cHe should be fine Ben. Just let him sleep as much as he needs to. You know what to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben saw the doctor out of the house and to his buggy. As he stepped inside his home he answered, \u2018I have no idea what I\u2019m to do.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The late night fire from the hearth illuminated Ben and the chair, highlighting the awkward position in which he slept, elbow on the arm of the chair, threatening to slide off while at the same time his hand supported his head. Hoss lay splayed out on the settee, head fallen back against the cushion, mouth gaped open and snoring. His left arm stretched across the top of the settee and his right arm hung off the side, his booted feet propped upon the low table, legs crossed at the ankles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upstairs, Adam closed the book he was trying to read, after place marking the page, and sat forward in the chair when he recognized signs that the boy might be waking, and quietly he waited. Several times during his overnight vigil he had switched seats to the bed when he thought Joe was rousing, only to be disappointed.<\/span><\/p>\n

A faint smile graced the eldest brother\u2019s face when eyelids fluttered, stilled, before fluttering open and closed, only to finally open once more. Looking around the room, Joe stopped when he saw Adam sitting there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Pa?\u201d Joe whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s asleep downstairs,\u201d quietly answered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy isn\u2019t he up here? Why isn\u2019t he with me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe sat in this chair all afternoon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Hoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAsleep on the settee\u2026 He sat with you most of the evening, up until eleven o\u2019clock.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked around the room, looking deep into the shadows in the corners.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you thirsty?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam never completely let go of the glass, unsure how well his brother\u2019s injured hands could hold it without dropping it and spilling its contents on the covers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Letting go of the glass, Joe asked, \u201cDo I know you?\u201d after having stared at the man who acted so kind towards him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s heart sank as he closed his eyes in regret. He returned the glass to the side table and stood, worrying. A moment later he looked to his brother after hearing, \u201cMy brother Adam does that.\u201d Joe cocked his head left and right, he then explained, \u201cCrosses his arms and pinches his nose between his eyes.\u201d He scrunched his face as if in pain and began to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d Adam asked as he sat down on the bed and wrapped his arms around his brother, pulling him close.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t a dream\u2026 It all happened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened, Joe?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I asked Hop Sing if I could stay home. I thought\u2026\u201d Joe stopped speaking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you think?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam relaxed his arms, allowing Joe to sit back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I was remembering you\u2026 You are Adam, aren\u2019t you?\u201d he hesitated in asking, not able to face his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

With his index finger folded in upon itself the side of the knuckle of this thumb against the nail of his index finger, Adam raised his brother\u2019s head up from below his chin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes Joe, I\u2019m Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With closed eyes, Joe quietly spoke, \u201cYou promised you\u2019d come home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI did come home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut not before I forgot you. That part wasn\u2019t a dream, either\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFrom what Pa and Hoss told me, no, it wasn\u2019t a dream.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean to forget you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With an honest smile, Adam answered, \u201cI know you didn\u2019t. Do you really remember me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou brought me home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about before I brought you home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou used to let me crawl into bed with you, when I couldn\u2019t sleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I enjoyed those nights,\u201d answered Adam feeling a little bit relaxed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut not my cold feet.\u201d Joe offered a hesitant giggle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEspecially NOT your cold feet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou took me fishing, you let me ride Beauty.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The serene expression on Adam\u2019s face faded at the mention of his previous horse and his remembrance in how the horse had been lost.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to Beauty? I mean, I like Sport\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a long story, but he had to be destroyed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter\u2026\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking up from crying eyes, Joe asked, \u201cIt was when you were looking for me, wasn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all my fault, I\u2019m sorry, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey kid, there\u2019s no need for you to be sorry. Nothing was your fault.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNone of this would have happened if I hadn\u2019t forgotten you. I wouldn\u2019t have asked Hop Sing if I could stay home\u2026 Charlie wouldn\u2019t have gotten hit by an arrow\u2026 They wouldn\u2019t have taken me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe tightly wrapped his arms around his brother and cried bitter tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy there young man,\u201d Ben Cartwright firmly stated as he stepped into the room and proceeded to sit upon the other side of the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Downstairs, Ben had awakened feeling momentarily panicked; guilty he had fallen asleep and unsure what had woke him. Much to his chagrin he found he suffered a crick in his neck and his left hand numb, as his hand had supported his head while his elbow rested on the arm of the chair. He heeded the urgent desire to check on his youngest. Nearing the opened door, Ben listened to two of his sons talking. His fatherly instinct informed him this was a healing discussion that needed to occur, but he felt forced to make his presence known when he heard Joe\u2019s last comments.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Waiting for his son to calm, Ben placed his hand behind the boy\u2019s neck and began massaging the tight-knit muscles.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, it wasn\u2019t your fault that those men attacked this ranch. There was nothing you could have done to have prevented it, and nothing you did caused it to happen.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I was here, and\u2026 they took me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and I\u2019ve lived every day for the past two years with that regret.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked to his father for the first time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe regret that in my intentions to keep you safe, by not allowing you to come with us on the cattle drive for fear you would be injured\u2026 my own selfish needs left you vulnerable to those men. For that, I am sorry\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I could have gone to town with Hop Sing\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe\u2026 Son\u2026 who knows what would have happened. All we can do is accept what did happen and live a better life knowing that it\u2019s in the past.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s not in the past\u2026\u201d Joe whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour dreams?\u201d Adam calmly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u201cThey come at night or when I\u2019m doing something\u2026 I can\u2019t stop \u2018em.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to talk about them?\u201d Adam queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head no. He knew how much he\u2019d already hurt his family and couldn\u2019t bear to burden them with anymore details than what he had already said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, can you tell me how you hurt your hands?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a shyness that was not the boy they knew, father and son listened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got in a fight\u2026 I don\u2019t know who they were\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we know about the fight\u2026\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do anything to start it,\u201d Joe declared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe know. We have a pretty good idea of what happened\u2026 But that\u2019s not how you injured your hands. You couldn\u2019t have struck any of those boys hard enough to damage your hands as you did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Minutes passed and Joe stiffened before he replied, \u201cNo sir,\u201d unable to look his father in the eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember what you did after the fight?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you care to tell us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head, no.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me rephrase that, Joseph. I\u2019d like for you to tell us how you hurt your hands.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not your Joseph\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s voice was quite serious.<\/span><\/p>\n

Stunned, Ben asked, \u201cAnd just what do you mean by that? You most certainly are my Joseph.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour Joseph died.\u201d Looking up, Joe\u2019s voice emboldened as he answered, his eyes held an anger that scared Ben and Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Both men were held speechless based on the fact that the family had believed that Joe had died. But now, for over a month, they gladly accepted that they had been wrong.<\/span><\/p>\n

With courage Joe expressed his hurt by looking to his oldest brother, \u201cI begged you to come fine me, you promised you\u2019d come home. Just like Momma\u2026 you lied!!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe attempted to strike his brother with his hands, but found them securely restrained by his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou gave up! You stopped looking for me! You buried me, just like Momma!!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, what else were we to believe,\u201d pleaded Ben. \u201cThe McCloud brothers brought home a body that by all other accounts\u2026 we believed was you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019M YOUR SON! YOU\u2019RE SUPPOSED TO KNOW!\u201d Joe cried out while looking to his father. He turned to his brother and began to hysterically yell, \u201cYOU PROMISED YOU\u2019D COME HOME!!!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sat back in utter shock at his son\u2019s accusation and allowed the boy to wrench his bandaged hands from his father\u2019s grip and turn over in his bed to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Adam looked to each other, guilt readily readable on their faces; both thinking the boy was right, wasn\u2019t he?<\/span><\/p>\n

Neither left the room, they allowed the boy his grief but kept contact with him. Ben rubbed his large hand in circles upon the boy\u2019s back while Adam placed his hand upon the boy\u2019s shoulder. Of all the reasons for the boy to throw a temper tantrum, this one they had never envisioned and were not adequately prepared to handle the situation.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

A very uncomfortable Hoss woke upon hearing Hop Sing in the kitchen. Smacking his tongue against the roof of his mouth he decided to go upstairs in order to freshen up for the day and to see his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

The middle Cartwright son looked into the room to see a worrisome scene, \u201cWhat happened ta Shortshanks?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe woke earlier,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cHe\u2019s had a rough go of it\u2026 He said we gave up on him\u2026 If only I\u2019d remembered that grave when he first came home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa cain\u2019t blame yourself, Pa. We\u2019re all guilty of that. Like Adam said, we gotta stand firm, and at the same time let him know we love him and we\u2019re happy he\u2019s home. I can\u2019t imagine what he thought, seeing his own grave there next to his Momma\u2019s\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt had to be a shock to his system\u2026 Paul was right,\u201d Adam offered. \u201cDamn, why\u2019d we have to spend that extra time in Sacramento?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam lowered his head in accepting his culpability in the events that happened leading up to Joe\u2019s kidnapping.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut ya done wanted to come home early\u2026 We could have stayed longer,\u201d Hoss added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf we\u2019re going to play the blame game, then why\u2019d I accept the contract for those cattle? Why didn\u2019t the army send a warning that the marauders were heading in our direction? Why didn\u2019t the telegraph company fix the line quicker? Why didn\u2019t someone prevent the fire that took down the telegraph line?\u201d Ben declared. \u201cI could go on and on\u2026 I don\u2019t care what could have done in the past to prevent what happened; all I care about is that I love my three sons\u2026 I thank God he\u2019s returned my youngest to me\u2026 to us. I don\u2019t need to know everything that happened, but if Joe wants to tell me, I\u2019ll listen. And you will too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one said anything otherwise, Pa,\u201d answered Adam. \u201cWhatever will help the kid heal, the three of us will be here for him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFour,\u201d Hop Sing declared from the doorway. \u201cFour of us be here for Lit\u2019le Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Throughout the next two days, Joe ignored his family as they came and went from his room; he wasn\u2019t ready to face them, he was scared to face them. They had thought him dead, maybe it would have been easier for them if he had never come home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Every time a member of his family entered his room, they couldn\u2019t leave without caressing his face or touching his arm, just to let him know they loved him, regardless of his effort to disregard their presence. Countless times he felt the soft press of his father\u2019s lips against his brow when he feigned sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

During the day when he was left alone, Joe sat in the window seat and watched all the comings and goings outside. He tried not to think, but the memories were persistent. Tears streaked his cheeks as he leaned his head against the windowpane.<\/span><\/p>\n

Whenever he\u2019d hear someone walking the hallway, he dried his face and quickly returned to his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 28 \u2013 Boston Comes West<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Gabe Cunningham halted the surrey after following two armed cowboys to the front of the imposing structure. During their college years, Adam had described his home and the land they owned, but he had never pictured anything as grand as what stood before them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure, Gabriel?\u201d Doctor Truman Cunningham asked as he looked out from under the fringe canopy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ralph halted his horse and called out to the man exiting the red barn, \u201cThey were on the main road coming this way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I help you fellas?\u201d Charlie called as he walked out from the red barn to the stopped surrey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m a college fried of Adam Cartwright,\u201d Gabe answered. \u201cHe told me if I was ever in the area, I should stop by\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wished you\u2019d have wired the family before you came all this way\u2026 They\u2019ve had some personal troubles and right now they aren\u2019t accepting any visitors.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs this pertaining to the youngest brother?\u201d asked the silver haired man who stepped from the surrey. \u201cIt might be presumptuous of us to stop by, but I\u2019m Doctor Truman Cunningham and this is my son Captain Gabriel Cunningham.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking to the younger man, Charlie surmised, \u201cThen you\u2019d be the fella who helped Mr. Adam find Little Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Gabe nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019ll wait here, I\u2019ll have Hop Sing tell Mr. Adam that you\u2019re here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Father and son heard the two cowboys turn about and ride away as they continued to take in the grandiose appearance and the fresh, clean air that held a strong fragrance of pine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGabe?!\u201d Adam called as he jogged from the house, eager to greet his former college friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman Cunningham stood back and watched the interaction between the two friends. He evaluated the mannerism from what he remembered of the man, to the one who stood before him, next to his son. He noted the black clothes, as if in mourning\u2026 He wondered if they were too late, that something had happened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you remember my father\u2026\u201d Gabe finally remembered his manners.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor Cunningham, welcome to the Ponderosa.\u201d Surprised the man had finally made the trip out west, he remembered the man\u2019s fear of the unknown territories.<\/span><\/p>\n

During his years at Harvard, Adam had spent many nights visiting Gabe\u2019s home and father. After listening to the man explain how his own father had traversed the Atlantic Ocean with his wife, he revealed the fact that he had been born only five months after his parents had settled in the port town. The man exhorted how he couldn\u2019t believe his own father would risk jeopardy to his wife and unborn child to travel to somewhere unknown.<\/span><\/p>\n

Though it amazed Adam that his friend\u2019s father could to be so narrow minded when it came to exploring, and expanding one\u2019s own knowledge of people and the lands they inhabit, he understood that adventure was not for everyone. Will little prompting from his friend, he sufficiently tamed the stories he told of life living on the Ponderosa, including a glancing precursor of their travels across the country from Boston. Even so, the tales bothered the man. He very much enjoyed the civilized land of the east coast of America.<\/span><\/p>\n

On numerous occasions Adam had attempted to explain there really wasn\u2019t that much difference when Gabe\u2019s grandfather crossed the Atlantic from England, to their traveling across country, except one was over water and the other over land. It didn\u2019t matter that they both suffered their own scourges; the sea had pirates to contend with instead of the Indians. The man just couldn\u2019t understand a person\u2019s willingness to take such risks to their own life as well as that of their loved ones; he pointed out Inger\u2019s death.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam countered with his own mother\u2019s death and how it was a fact of life regardless of where or how one lived.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman focused on if they were all to die, how would their remaining family members feel? Would they ever know the truth?<\/span><\/p>\n

It humbled Adam to realize the man who had never consider leaving Boston was now standing in front of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLovely land\u2026\u201d Truman finally offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re proud of it\u2026 \u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I hope you won\u2019t think me too forward, but\u2026\u201d Gabe announced without moving away from the surrey. \u201cI wrote to my father about your situation with your brother\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGabe\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, please forgive me for coming unannounced, but\u2026 I came in the capacity as a physician; I was intrigued when I received Gabe\u2019s wire, telling me about finding your little brother. I was also worried for you; I know how much you loved your siblings that I wanted to be here to help. I attempted to speak with your family physician in town, to gather a little more background information and to receive his blessings to try to help you and your family through this stressful time. I can\u2019t imagine life has been easy in helping the boy re-acclimate back into family life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Knowing the man\u2019s fears of life in the west, Adam knew he couldn\u2019t deny the man the opportunity to try to help; the doctor had traveled all this way to help strangers, for all intent and purposes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease come inside, I think we should have this discussion with my father. We\u2019ve had some success with Joe, but the past number of days have been fairly traumatic for the whole family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cunninghams joined the Cartwrights for lunch and listened to the men recount the successes and the setbacks they had experienced since Adam\u2019s return home with Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben offered a personal introduction to Paul Martin upon his next visit to the home, \u201cI don\u2019t think he\u2019d be offended by your presence\u2026 or your help. We\u2019re all kind of at a loss at the moment.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Plans were made for Gabe to return the surrey to the livery and Adam to follow with the Ponderosa buckboard. Adam would assist Gabe in retrieving their luggage that had been left at the stage depot, not wanting to be any more presumptuous that the Cartwrights would invite them into their home for the duration of their stay.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon seeing the physician in Virginia City, Adam introduced his former college friend and explained their presence, \u201cI know Pa\u2019d appreciate it if you could see your way to come for supper some night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy father would also like the chance to talk with you regarding Adam\u2019s younger brother\u2026 Understand your observations, since you know the boy from before, and can give an unbiased opinion on where he is now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if I have an unbiased opinion on the boy, but I\u2019d be happy to meet with your father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust show up as your schedule allows,\u201d Adam offered. \u201cYou know Hop Sing always has plenty.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow upset will Hoss be upon my arrival\u2026\u201d teased Paul.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can always threaten him with some vile medicine\u2026\u201d Adam teased back.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

During their return to the Ponderosa, Gabe again offered an apology for their unannounced arrival, but added that he knew his father could be of assistance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know how many times I wished there to be someone to talk to about how best to help Joe,\u201d answered Adam as he rein slapped the horses to move out.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe involuntarily flinched when the bright, late afternoon sun stole into his room; he quickly scowled at the figure standing by the window.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you wake, you come eat,\u201d Hop Sing declared, crossing his arms to indicate he could be just as stubborn. \u201cGet dressed, suppa ready soon, you talk to family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Shaking his index finger at the boy, Hop Sing threatened, \u201cI get spoon if you not dressed and down stairs in fifteen minutes. Your choice, stop foolishness.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The Oriental left the room with a smile on his face as he heard the covers being thrown back across the bed and feet padding across the wooden floor. Ten minutes later he was surprised to hear his name quietly called from the back staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, I need your help,\u201d Joe called.<\/span><\/p>\n

He had tried his best to fasten his pants as well as his shirt, but the bandaging on his hands interfered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe go back up stairs\u2026 Get you dressed\u2026 You come down other stairs, see family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slowly made his way downstairs. All afternoon, before Hop Sing rudely intruded on his solitude, he\u2019d heard the voices in the great room, but never left his room to investigate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben quietly acknowledged his son\u2019s presence. \u201cIt\u2019s good to see you awake. Are you hungry, son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe have guests who will be joining us tonight\u2026 I\u2019d like you to meet Captain Gabe Cunningham and his father, Truman Cunningham.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slowly finished walking down the steps; he stopped short of greeting the men by standing next to the blue, velvet chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, what do we say when we have visitors?\u201d Ben cautiously asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Earlier in the afternoon he had been glad to have Dr. Cunningham confirm that they did need to set boundaries and expectations for the child. Being impolite would not be tolerated. The physician had commented on how their situation would make a very good case study, but he didn\u2019t feel he could be objective enough or that it was right to put their family affairs out in the public domain. So instead, he chose to offer his services in a manner to assist the family, without thought to providing information to further this new field of medical science.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood afternoon, sirs,\u201d Joe replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou look a lot better than the last time I saw you,\u201d Gabe offered. \u201cI\u2019m glad Adam was able to return you home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSuppa ready,\u201d Hop Sing called from the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Throughout supper, Ben, Adam, and Hoss took their lead from Gabe and Truman, they didn\u2019t pressure the boy to interact with them, but talked of subjects that would allow the boy to participate, should he so choose. Gabe chose to hide his smiles behind a coffee cup or a napkin whenever it appeared that Joe was intently listening.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

It was the first time he\u2019d been out of his room since injuring his hands and he wanted to get away from the inquisitive looks from the strangers and his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, may I go check on Cochise?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Cunningham gulped hard as he swallowed his after dinner brandy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, son, you may go out to check on your horse,\u201d Ben replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

The group watched Joe leave before Ben apologized and explained to the visitors.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo need, just startled me to think that the boy personally knew the man,\u201d Truman answered. \u201cThough I do find it interesting that after his turbulent time with the Indians, he would choose a warrior\u2019s name for his horse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh, he\u2019s had his heart on a pinto and givin\u2019 it that name ever since he met Winnemucca,\u201d commented Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you don\u2019t mind, I think I\u2019ll start earning my keep,\u201d Truman excused himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

To pass the time, Gabe recounted the events that Adam had only glossed over that led to the recovery of Little Joe; he also spoke of his promotion. Adam and Gabe gave voice to memories from their years at Harvard that had Ben and Hoss laughing in earnest.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

From the barn entryway, Dr. Cunningham observed the youngest Cartwright as he stood outside a horse\u2019s stall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe is beautiful.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he is\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Walking across the dirty floor, Truman stopped near the stall door, but not close enough to pressure Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I\u2019d like to be honest with you\u2026 Up front that I\u2019m a doctor and I\u2019m hoping that I can be your friend, someone to help you understand what you\u2019re feeling inside.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had no reaction to the man\u2019s words.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey do love you, and they feel they have a right to know what happened. You\u2019ve not told them the entire truth of the events, have you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir, I don\u2019t want to hurt them. I can see it in their eyes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve found in my medical practice that sometimes it is easier to talk to someone who isn\u2019t family. I want you to be able to accept that nothing that happened was your fault, or the fault of your family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know that\u2026\u201d Joe answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a difference between knowing and accepting\u2026 I hope to find a way for you and your family to accept what happened so this can be buried and you can get on with living.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Without looking to the man Joe asked, \u201cCan you help me understand why they gave up on me\u2026 why they buried me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can try\u2026 I\u2019m here to listen, whatever you wish to talk about.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe proceeded to the hay bales stacked in tiered rows and climbed up to the third row, Doctor Cunningham took a seat on the second row.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

When the laughter subsided Adam addressed his own observations concerning the elder Cunningham.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a shock to me too\u2026 when I received his wire that he was on his way here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKnowing how much your father appreciated a contented life back in civilization\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I feel my father believes he owes you a debt of gratitude,\u201d Gabe offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not going to bring that up again, are you?\u201d Adam queried, his tone indicated he was a little more than embarrassed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s Gabe talkin\u2019 about Adam?\u201d inquired Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t feel that saving my life is nothing, and neither does my father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do anything that anyone else wouldn\u2019t have done,\u201d proclaimed Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut no one else did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s done, it\u2019s over with, it\u2019s in the past.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot for my father. I\u2019m sure you own father would feel beholden to any man who saved the life of one of his sons\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would, Adam,\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam tell us how ya saved Gabe,\u201d Hoss stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ignoring his middle brother, Adam answered, \u201cHe paid me back years ago.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaying your medical bills is not even in the same category\u2026\u201d Gabe said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMedical bills\u2026\u201d Ben grew concerned and sat forward in his chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou never told your family?\u201d Gabe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGrandfather told them I had been injured\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam would you kindly explain\u2026\u201d Ben answered; his voice indicated he would take nothing less than a full explanation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was nothing\u2026\u201d Adam insisted, his eyes dared his friend to say anything more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, I and the young lady I was escorting were crossing one of the bridges that span the Charles River\u2026 I had just purchased a corsage for the young lady and was making my way back to her, not paying attention to my surroundings\u2026 I was dreaming of pinning the flower to her coat, oblivious to the run-away horses hauling a drayage wagon that was barreling down on me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019d Adam do?\u201d Hoss eagerly asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt great risk to his own life, and upsetting the young lady he was escorting, he ran towards me\u2026 pushing me out of the way, but ended up being struck by one of the horses. He was thrown into me and we both tumbled over the railing and fell into the river.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUnfortunately, as we tumbled through the air, Adam ended up beneath me and when we landed in the river, a combination of my weight and hitting the ice, Adam suffered a broken leg\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI believe that Grandfather wrote you to inform you that I had had an accident\u2026\u201dAdam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI remember Abel\u2019s letter, he wrote nothing of your heroism\u2026\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI asked him not too\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes asked his friend not to continue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d ya do that?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProbably because it was the middle of January and he also asked Captain Stoddard to not say anything regarding the severe case of pneumonia he developed\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPneumonia!\u201d exclaimed Ben. \u201cAdam Stoddard Cartwright, how dare you keep such news from me!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere was nothing you could do, by the time you could have arrived, I was healthy again,\u201d explained Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, Adam spent nearly two weeks in the hospital, at one point the Captain professed to me that he wanted to break his word to his grandson\u2026 to wire you. Thankfully, it was two days later that Adam turned the corner and began to regain his health.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUltimately, I just suffered a severe cold and a dislocated shoulder. Though, once I was on the bank of the river, I had to suffer through the hysterics of two women as the Constables worked to pull Adam from the river. We both had been temporarily knocked unconscious as we crashed through the ice; Adam was out for a few minutes longer than I, an in the process inhaled some water.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs I said, your father paid me back a long time ago when he paid for my hospitalization and oversaw the team of physicians who treated me,\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat was money\u2026 This\u2026 this is personal for my father. Now, I hope you\u2019ll understand how important it is for him to try to help your family,\u201d answered Gabe.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Those in the house grew curious when the front door opened; Joe and Truman entered; with a relieved look upon his face, Joe pleasantly bid them all goodnight before heading up the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s quite a remarkable child\u2026\u201d Truman stated as he took a seat on the settee next to his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat he is. Did he say anything to you?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe talked, and right now, what Joe has to say needs to remain between the two of us. I won\u2019t break the trust he\u2019s placed in me. Ben, I know he can\u2019t ride, not with his hands bandaged, but I\u2019m sure he can guide me, if you\u2019ll allow us the use of your buggy tomorrow\u2026 I made a start with him tonight and I\u2019d like to continue.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBy all means, if it\u2019ll help Joe,\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think it will. Honestly, I think getting him away from the homestead will help him cope. Ben, when I have a better understanding, I\u2019ll tell you my thoughts of how I\u2019m progressing with the boy, don\u2019t worry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think that\u2019s my prerogative as a father. Thank you,\u201d Ben offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Doctor Cunningham and Joe left the front yard around nine o\u2019clock each morning. At first, Joe instructed the physician on how to improve his technique in driving a horse and buggy, which impressed the man when the horse actually stopped jigging in his stride. Joe gave directions on how to reach the areas that were his favorite.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once there, Joe talked, whether resting back against a tree or sprawled in the grass, he was relaxed in the man\u2019s company. There was no judgment, no pity, no desire to delve deeper into what he wasn\u2019t saying. The man was just there\u2026 listening.<\/span><\/p>\n

Together Joe and Truman made sure they were always back home before Hop Sing set lunch on the table, only to head out again afterwards. There wasn\u2019t much discussion surrounding Joe\u2019s experiences during the afternoons, instead, they sat together and watched his brothers working with horses and the cattle or repairing a fence line or two. Joe felt comfortable in explaining to the older gentleman what was happening and what to expect.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two joined their family members around the dining table and discussed life on the ranch and then retired to the great room. Joe enjoyed watching Adam and Gabe playing chess. After watching a few games, he was especially pleased when he was able to figure out the next move before the piece was transferred to its new location.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The next day, Paul Martin had finally managed his schedule so that he could make a trip out to the Ponderosa, he was eager to meet the doctor who held promise to help Little Joe, and he wanted to see how the family was doing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul!\u201d Ben called out as he stepped from the wooden porch to greet the physician.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry it\u2019s taken me so long to come back out here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe were beginning to worry, a little bit. Adam told you about Doctor Cunningham?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe did, and I met the man\u2019s son when he and Adam were in town.\u201d Paul handed the long reins to one of the ranch hands to said he\u2019d take care of the buggy and the horse. \u201cTell me Ben, has he been able to help Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he has. He hasn\u2019t told me anything that Joe\u2019s talked about, but I can definitely see a difference in Joe. Last night\u2026 I could see his mind working as he watch Adam and Gabe place a game of chess\u2026 and the smile on his face? I can only believe that he had guessed Adam\u2019s next move.\u201d Ben smiled at the memory.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow is the boy doing otherwise?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe two of them spend most of their mornings out on the ranch, just talking. Come on inside, enough of us conspiring out here\u2026 Come see for yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben escorted their guest inside and made introductions.<\/span><\/p>\n

While enjoying a pre-dinner brandy, Paul and the others looked towards the staircase as soon as they heard sounds of someone running down the steps.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph?\u201d Ben cautioned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, sorry Pa. Uh\u2026 Hey Doc Martin\u2026 What are you doing here?\u201d Joe worriedly asked as he finished walking down the lower steps.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust taking your father up on an invitation to supper\u2026 I hope you don\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, as long as that\u2019s the only reason,\u201d Joe answered as he took a seat on the arm of the blue chair where Adam sat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow have you been?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine\u2026\u201d Joe answered and then saw the expression on his father\u2019s and Doctor Cunningham\u2019s faces. \u201cI\u2019ve been doing real good. I take it that you met Doctor Cunningham?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh\u2026 He\u2019s been helping me to do some thinking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHas it been working?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026 Um\u2026 I hope your feelings haven\u2019t been hurt by him being here\u2026\u201d Joe offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 Not in the least. From what I understand, this is his area of specialty.\u201d Paul smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 Good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The conversation turned to events happening in town before Hop Sing called for supper.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Later that evening, Adam witnessed Paul Martin\u2019s inclination to frequently look upstairs and said, \u201cI take it you want to talk about Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, was I that obvious?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly if you realize how many times you\u2019ve looked upstairs in the past half hour,\u201d Adam answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cForgive me, but\u2026 I\u2019ve seen for myself the improvement in the boy\u2026 It\u2019s amazing. But, as a physician, I guess what I\u2019m wanting to ask\u2026\u201d he looked to Doctor Cunningham, \u201cJoe will turn thirteen this fall, and my concern is related to his emotional state once he reaches puberty\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI agree with your concern,\u201d Doctor Cunningham answered. \u201cSo far, I\u2019ve not noticed any signs that he has reached that stage in his development. It could be that the malnourishment he suffered will have had some impact on when it will begin.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happens if it begins before you\u2019re finished with your course of treatment?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll deal with it if it occurs, but I\u2019m not nearly as worried for the boy as I would have been before we began talking. I believe he is in a better state, mentally and physically, than if puberty had struck before my arrival.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d Adam sensed there was more too say.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul Martin continued, \u201cAre you in agreement that the Cartwrights will probably have some emotional tantrums to deal with?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you calling my son temperamental?\u201d Ben asked in good nature.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was\u2026 somewhat unpredictable, before, but in a fun sort of way. And I can see hints of him returning to such livelihood,\u201d Paul answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeaven help us\u2026\u201d Hoss whispered, but not quiet enough for the others in the room not to hear.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman laughed at Hoss\u2019 comment. \u201cAny child can be thrown for a loop once they reach that stage of their life\u2026 Ben and the boys just have to understand that they need to stand firm, and at the same time offer a guiding hand to see the child through this phase.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss rode out to west pasture to check on the status of the cattle and their spring-born calves to see how soon it would be before they could consider moving the herd to a different grazing land.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s doin\u2019 good, ain\u2019t he Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe seems to be doing better\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGabe\u2019s Pa\u2019s doin\u2019 good by him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt appears so\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019tcha wish it were you he was talkin\u2019 too?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe same as you do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa know, before ya left for college I was jealous of you\u2026 Little Joe\u2019d always run to you when he had troubles.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut once I left, he turned to you with his troubles,\u201d Adam finished.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and more times than not, I got into trouble right alongside a him. But\u2026 after you brought him home, I was jealous of you all over again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m jealous of Doctor Cunningham,\u201d Hoss acknowledge.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Three days later, Truman approached Ben in the office area of the great room, he inquired if the family had given any thought to inviting some of the children that Joe had previously known to come over.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you explain to a child that a friend they thought dead, is really alive?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you explain to a family that their child they thought dead, has lived under terrible circumstances?\u201d Truman countered. \u201cBen, consider how far he has come since he first came home. Consider how far you, Adam, and Hoss have helped him heal since this whole ordeal started. I think this is the next logical step of progression for the boy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

From the look on Ben\u2019s face, Truman asked, \u201cAre you ashamed of him? Are you scared of what people will think or say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll NEVER be ashamed of any of my sons,\u201d Ben defensively answered. \u201cI\u2019m not scared\u2026 not for me at least. I\u2019m worried for Joe. We\u2019ve already seen what happened when those boys came here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoys who were not invited to the Ponderosa. Boys who, I understand, were already known as troublemakers. I\u2019m talking of children whom Joe knew from school as friends. Children with whom he played with during recess\u2026 Hoss told me about his best friend Mitch finding him out on the road to town\u2026 What could it hurt to invite him and his family over, for a small get together.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe had talked about it, but were going to wait until after we fulfilled the contract with the army\u2026 then those boys showed up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, you\u2019ve done a wonderful job in bringing him this far, from what Gabe told me he witnessed right after they found the boy. Why not invite a few people over after church on Sunday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll give it some thought\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I know this is difficult for you. I honestly think the main hurt Joe has is the tombstone and that you thought he\u2019d died; that you gave up on him. Maybe by inviting the children over will help prove to him that he has a life to live. In my opinion, they will be able to help Joe to become a child again. In the Bible Isaiah spoke, \u201cand a little child shall lead them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIsaiah was talking of enemies; wolves and sheep, leopards and goats\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I believe the moral is, the young, if raised right, the young can learn to live together regardless of their differences,\u201d Truman answered. \u201cIf we believe and allow them the chance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at the man, unsure how he should answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThink on it Ben. I\u2019ll talk with you later.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman walked away, knowing he\u2019d given the father plenty to think about.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben did have a lot to think about, not only what Truman Cunningham had to say, but also what Reverend Hamilton has said earlier. What his eldest son had also tried to explain to him weeks before.<\/span><\/p>\n

And so it was that Sunday morning, Ben rose early and dressed for church, the first time since that fateful summer. He quietly strode down the staircase to see Hoss, Adam, and Gabe properly attired to attend church. Truman stated he would stay home with Joe, he didn\u2019t believe that this was the right time for the boy to make a trip into town.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

When the Ponderosa buggy with Ben and Gabe stopped in front of the church with Adam and Hoss right behind them on their horses, they weren\u2019t sure of the reception they\u2019d receive.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul Martin was first to notice them, followed by George and Martha Devlin. Abe Pruitt and his son Seth made a bee line for the newcomers. At the top of the steps that led into the sanctuary, Reverend Hamilton smiled. For whatever lay behind the reason, he was glad that Ben and his boys were returning to church; it didn\u2019t surprise him that the youngest was not with them, not yet.<\/span><\/p>\n

People who honestly called the Cartwrights friends waited in line to greet them, telling the family how thrilled they were of the news surrounding young Joseph being alive and his return to his family. Most members of the congregation asked for their well wishes to be relayed to the child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing on the outskirts of the church yard, Angus Trumble and two of his friends, who had been escorted to the Sheriff\u2019s Office and fined for trespassing, watched from the shadows of the trees.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The focus of the sermon rested on acceptance and forgiveness. Reverend Hamilton quoted bible verses from Ephesians 4, Matthew 7, 1 Peter 3, James 2, 1 John 1, and 2 Corinthians 5. He expounded how each verse should be lived within their community, and that it shouldn\u2019t be every now and then\u2026 when it suited a person. He urged that the people needed to live the teachings, each and every day.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the service continued, everyone in the congregation acknowledged with humble accord the forth-right look of Reverend Hamilton as his eyes slowly scanned the parishioners and paused momentarily upon each man, woman, and child.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Afterwards, with a smile, Ben again shook hands with the Devlins and the Pruitts, and was pleased when they said they\u2019d arrive at the Ponderosa around three o\u2019clock for Sunday supper. As he turned to walk to his sons, he instead encountered Mr. Brandenburg, the teacher.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, I don\u2019t think we\u2019ve had the opportunity to formally meet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor that, I am sorry. There is more than one kind of acceptance and one type of forgiveness; as we were reminded today \u2013 my apologies.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With a shake of hands, the men began anew.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t wish to seem too presumptuous, but when you are ready, I would be most happy to meet young Joseph to see where he fits in with his contemporaries at school. I\u2019d be willing to privately tutor the boy so he won\u2019t feel too\u2026 put upon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, my oldest son has been working with Joseph since shortly after he was located. I\u2019m sure Adam would be happy to discuss with you where Joe stands as well as working together to see where Joe might fit in your classroom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d be honored to come to your home, whenever you feel the time would be the right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure Hop Sing will welcome another place at the dinner table.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard about his culinary skills and I look forward to your invitation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing next to their horses, Hoss elbowed his older brother in the ribs and quietly said, \u201cGuess we need to revamp our warning to the hands, seems we\u2019re going to have quite a lot of visitors around home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we\u2019re ready for them,\u201d smiled Adam as he prepared to mount his horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 29 \u2013 The Restoration<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was anxious to see his family upon their return from church, and it surprised him to see people milling about the great room as he came inside after a buggy ride with Doctor Cunningham. In addition to Charlie and Doctor Martin, he saw a man standing by the hearth with a badge on his vest; there were also two small family groupings standing in the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Mitch Devlin was the first one to see Joe entering the house and ran to greet him. When Joe hesitated and stared at him, the boy said, \u201cBet ya don\u2019t remember me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Martha Devlin scolded her son for being impertinent.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another young boy sauntered over to the doorway\u2026 \u201cWell, if it ain\u2019t the hero who took on Billy Trumble and his cronies\u2026\u201d Seth Pruitt announced and then looking downward, \u201cWow, did you really did do a number on your hands.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy was quickly pulled backwards, by his collar, by a man who was obviously his father. The boy\u2019s eyes temporarily glared in anger, but seeing his father\u2019s expression, he gave a heavy gulp and softened his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe don\u2019t let Seth bother you none, he\u2019s just upset that he doesn\u2019t have all the girls in town talkin\u2019 all goo-goo eyed about him.\u201d Mitch accepted the good-natured punch in the arm from the other boy. \u201cIn case you don\u2019t remember me, I\u2019m Mitch Devlin and this here is Seth Pruitt. The three of us were best friends\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked from the two boys who stood in front of him to his middle brother, searching to see if what they said was right.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShortshanks, the only ones who got into more trouble than me and you, were the three of you.\u201d The index finger on Hoss\u2019 right hand made a circular motion, indicating all three of the youths standing in the entryway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure Joe, don\u2019t ya remember getting hided for\u2026\u201d Seth stopped speaking, even though it had been several years, it didn\u2019t do well to bring up that particularly painful subject.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, can I show the fellas my horse?\u201d Joe tentatively asked. He wasn\u2019t sure how to interact with the boys, but he knew boys always like horses because he liked horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded, \u201cDon\u2019t stay out there too long, Hop Sing will have supper on the table in about thirty minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben asked Hoss to go bring the boys in from the barn so they could wash up before eating. Hoss had barely made it to the door when the others in room startled when something crashed into the door, followed by a high pitch screaming and laughter. Hoss opened the door and three boys tumbled onto the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT IN THUNDERATION!\u201d bellowed Ben as he jumped from his chair and ran to the entry way.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking up from trying to extricate himself from under his friends, Joe gave the widest grin, \u201cOh, hi Pa\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t \u2018hi Pa\u2019 me. Just what do you think you\u2019re doing?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh\u2026 trying to get here on time?\u201d Joe laughed his answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came up behind his father, placed a hand upon his shoulder, and gave a squeeze. Sinking down to his heels, Adam looked Joe in the eye and asked, \u201cDo you need a hand up?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rolling onto his side, Joe held up his still bandaged hands, \u201cCan you give me two?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss laughed out a huge guffaw at his brother\u2019s antics.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, why don\u2019t you help Joseph to his feet, and bring him upstairs,\u201d suggested Doc Martin as he moved towards the staircase. \u201cI\u2019d like to take a look at his hands while I\u2019m here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh, Doc,\u201d whined Joe as Adam assisted him to his feet. \u201cI\u2019m fine.\u201d He shouldered into Mitch on one side, who shoved him back only to have him shoulder into Seth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMarch!\u201d Ben ordered, his hand pointing towards the staircase.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe quickly covered his posterior when Ben threatened a swat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going!\u201d he laughingly declared.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe ran up the stairs cackling and calling out, \u201cI\u2019ll be back!!!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, a child shall lead them,\u201d Truman heard Ben whisper.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time Paul Martin had finished his examination of Joe\u2019s hands, he had changed the thick wrapping around the boy\u2019s left hand to a light bandage without any kind of a splint. He intended for the bandage to only remind the boy to still take it easy. As for the boy\u2019s right hand, the dark bruising had vanished, but the doctor was still a little concerned with the swelling over the boy\u2019s knuckles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grumped when the wooden slat was repositioned and the heavy bandage was wrapped around it and his right hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s for the best Joe. I\u2019m trying to keep your hand slightly immobilized so the knuckles will have a chance to heal properly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u2026\u201d moaned Joe. \u201cI just wish\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA couple more weeks\u2026 We\u2019ll see how your hand is doing then. Just be thankful that your left hand is almost completely healed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat is something\u2026 isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is really something,\u201d answered Paul. \u201cNow come on, let\u2019s go downstairs and enjoy Hop Sings cooking.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

As Ben settled to sleep that night, he hesitated in using the term miraculous, but in the weeks since the Cunninghams had arrived at the Ponderosa he had watched a miraculous transformation in his youngest son as well as his entire family.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Several weeks later, supper would be served within the hour as Ben watch the three riders make their way into the yard, he wondered if this is what it would eventually look like when his youngest had reached his full growth\u2026 Adam, Gabe, and Hoss were quite the filthy sight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBath house!\u201d Ben warned, pointing with his left arm across his chest to indicate the far side of the house. \u201cDon\u2019t even think of coming through this front door. Hop Sing will definitely head back to China if you were to track all\u2026\u201d Ben flipped his hand rapidly back and forth, palm down, as if trying to figure out the phrase to use, \u201c\u2026all that\u2026 filth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, it ain\u2019t nothing but clean, honest work\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cClean?\u201d Gabe squealed before laughter burst forth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHonest yes, little brother, but definitely NOT clean,\u201d joked Adam as they all dismounted and took their horses into the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, regardless of what it is we\u2019re sure making a cowboy outa this here soldier\u2026\u201d Hoss announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

As the group sat down for supper, Gabe inquired about the absence of his father and Little Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey decided to camp out overnight,\u201d Ben answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT?!\u201d Gabe gaped. \u201cMy father has NEVER camped out a night in his life\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what brought this on?\u201d Hoss asked as he reached for the bowl of mashed potatoes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t like the idea of the two of them being out there all alone. Joe\u2019s hands aren\u2019t totally healed\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis left hand is practically healed, Paul said so.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill\u2026 Did Truman take a rifle?\u201d Adam inquired as he refused to accept the bowl from his brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy father doesn\u2019t know how to use a firearm, Adam. You know that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Before Adam began to rise he asked, \u201cWhere did they go? They shouldn\u2019t be out there without someone to protect them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, sit down. To ease your concerns, I sent Charlie to watch over them for the afternoon, and he arranged for some of the other hands to rotate through the night to keep an eye on them from a distance. I\u2019m not that much of a fool to allow them to go out on their own without protection\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say you were,\u201d Adam humbly bowed his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor Cunningham has made significant headway with Joseph and I know you would like to know what they\u2019re talking about, but you\u2019ll just have to wait\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care what they\u2019re talkin\u2019 about anymore\u2026\u201d Hoss replied. \u201cI see a lot of the old Little Joe coming back, so if by Shortshanks talkin\u2019 to Gabe\u2019s Pa is good enough for him\u2026 it\u2019s good enough for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The conversation turned to what happened during the day, while the boys were working.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

At their campsite down by one of the many stream-fed large ponds on the Ponderosa, Joe was enjoying himself. He\u2019d caught several fish that afternoon and had managed to instruct Doctor Cunningham in how to clean them, and now, the fruit of his labors was sizzling in the pan over the fire.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I\u2019ve enjoyed my time with you these past weeks,\u201d Truman announced as he poured himself a cup of coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re leaving soon, aren\u2019t you\u2026\u201d Joe stated as he cooked their supper, not turning to look at the man who sat behind him. He managed to remove the bandage around his right hand so that he could properly hold the frying pan, it barely hurt when he gripped the handle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman noticed, and kept a close eye on Joe to make sure the boy wasn\u2019t setting himself back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I have a practice to return to in Boston.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I should thank you for spending all this time with me and helping me figure stuff out\u2026\u201d Joe stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve done that plenty, Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2026 I don\u2019t remember thanking you\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot directly, but you\u2019ve opened my eyes to a whole new world. This land\u2026 the beauty, oh I know she can be harsh, as you\u2019ve experienced, but it takes good, honest people with a talent for living to call this home. This is living. Back in Boston\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t ya stay here?\u201d Joe asked as he served up one of the fish fillets to the physician. \u201cI mean, you don\u2019t have to stay here on the Ponderosa, I\u2019m sure that Sacramento or one of the other big cities in California could use a doctor like you, maybe even Denver. I can\u2019t be the only mixed up person in the world\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you still feel mixed up?\u201d Truman asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot so much, just every once in a while.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to hear that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, if you stayed out west, you\u2019d be closer to Gabe, and you could still come visit us\u2026 I know Pa\u2019d like that\u2026 having someone his own age who\u2019s not a ranch hand to talk too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou are remarkable. I told your father that the first night after we spoke. But, what of Paul Martin or Vernon Biggs?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGee the only time Doctor Martin comes is when one of us is injured or sick and then during our recovery\u2026 He\u2019ll come every now and then for supper. And Sheriff Biggs, Pa\u2019d rather not have him come because it would probably mean one of my brothers were in jail.\u201d Joe laughed. \u201cGuess things will change now that things are getting back to normal.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLife is all about changing and how you handle the changes. Your family is changing Joe, they\u2019re looking forward to living life,\u201d Truman stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Both settled back to eating the supper.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Adam doing?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d Truman was curious. He had never thought their conversations would take this path.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure none of this has been easy for him\u2026 Especially me blaming him for not coming home\u2026\u201d Joe paused, his shoulders slumped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I do know your oldest brother and he\u2019s not the type of person who would open up to a man in my position, oh\u2026 He\u2019s asked me questions about how to help you and what they should do in certain situations\u2026 but he won\u2019t talk about himself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026 How do you help him? I mean if he won\u2019t talk to you about himself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot me\u2026 Gabe\u2019s been doing most of that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I didn\u2019t think he was a doctor? I thought he was in the Army.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe is in the Army, but Joe, even you can help your brother\u2026 Just be there for him, and more importantly keep telling him you love him and don\u2019t forget to show him, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Long after dishes were washed and the campsite cleaned up, Joe and Doctor Cunningham lay on top of their bedrolls, listening to nature quieting for the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman interrupted the peace of the night, \u201cJoe, that first night we met, after you went to bed\u2026 I talked with your father and told him that I\u2019d let him know how you were doing, and I\u2019ve done that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat up, concerned about what the doctor meant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve not repeated anything that you\u2019ve said to me, but I have written a lot of it down in a journal.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe became defensive in posture as he turned towards the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to give my journal to you, to do with as you please. You can burn it in the fire or you can give it to your family or keep it…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman pulled the journal out from the satchel he had brought with him and handed it to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d you write all that stuff down?\u201d Joe asked as he hesitantly took the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t write \u2018stuff\u2019 down, I wrote down what you said and my observations, and I referred to my notes on quite a few occasions as I\u2019ve tried to help you. You\u2019ve come so far that I think you\u2019ve honestly accepted that you have a good life to live.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know I do\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I believe you, but it\u2019s not just that you\u2019ve accepted it, you\u2019re living it. You were fairly sullen that first day, too polite but only to avoid getting in trouble with your father. It took a while before I ever heard you laugh\u2026 now any room you walk into changes, especially with your family. I never really believed in \u2018shining eyes\u2019, but I see it now\u2026\u201d Truman\u2019s voice changed to one of amusing warning, \u201cAnd if you\u2019re not careful, your shining eyes are going to get you into a lot of mischief and probably a few tannings from your father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s worth the risk\u2026 And it\u2019s only because he loves me\u2026\u201d Joe cackled. There was no fear of repercussions for any of his transgressions. He knew there was a difference between the abuse he\u2019d suffered through and the punishments he probably would deserve.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The family and Gabe lounged around the great room with Ben settled back into his chair, preparing his pipe to smoke, \u201cCare to talk about it Hoss?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou seem too quiet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNah, it ain\u2019t nothin\u2019,\u201d answered Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI miss him too,\u201d Adam offered as he \u2018toasted\u2019 his brother with his cup of coffee. \u201cKind of got real used to hearing that peculiar laugh of his the past couple of weeks. Though sometimes, it does grate on my nerves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026 Gabe, you don\u2019t know how much it really means to this family to hear Shortshanks cackle like he does.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The big man smiled, and those in the room would have sworn he grew right before their eyes; he sat up straighter and had an air about himself that rained happiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Once their camp was cleaned, bearing little indication that someone had spent the night, Truman placed a hand upon Joe\u2019s shoulder, in his other hand were the bandages and the splint.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026 Do you have to?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know you\u2019ve managed well enough without them, but\u2026 I don\u2019t want to suffer your father\u2019s wrath or that of Doctor Martin. Besides, I think he\u2019ll remove them for good sometime this week.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think so?\u201d Joe hoped.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman nodded and a few minutes later, it was hard to tell that the bandages had ever been removed.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

On Friday, Paul Martin made another return to the Ponderosa, arriving just before dinner, and completely removed the light-weight bandage from Joe\u2019s left hand. The physician suggested for the boy\u2019s right hand that he continue to wear a bandage, for support purposes only, just for another week or two.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the family and their friends relaxed after dinner, Gabe and Truman announced their intentions to leave.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truman knew it was finally time to leave, and their leaving would prompt one last hurdle for Joe, his first trip to town. The physician knew the family was able to handle anything from here on out on their own… For the past week, most of their conversations had been more about the land and the work they performed than Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The house had quieted and Ben was banking the hearth in the great room, he looked up when he sensed someone on the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, isnt\u2019 it a little late for you to be up? I thought you went to bed hours ago.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI did, but I couldn\u2019t sleep,\u201d Joe answered as he finished walking down the stairs, proceeding to stand next to his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs there something I can help you with?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t that Joe was hesitant; he just didn\u2019t know exactly how to begin the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2026 I think that I can help you with something\u2026\u201d Joe quietly stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben watched as Joe revealed the book he was holding behind his back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think this is what you\u2019ve been wanting to know\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is this?\u201d Ben asked as he sat down on the stone hearth and looked at the book his son held.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Doctor Cunningham\u2019s journal, his notes from our talks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoes he know you have this?\u201d Ben grew worried when his son told him what it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe gave it to me when we went camping. Said he wanted me to have it, that I could do with it what I wanted.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you want me to have this?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt first I wanted to burn it\u2026 But, I guess you have a right to know\u2026I\u2019d like for you to have it,\u201d Joe answered as he held the journal out in front of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you feel about that?\u201d Ben asked as he held up his hands to accept the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re my Pa and\u2026 regardless of what\u2019s in there, I love you and I know that you, and Adam, and Hoss love me.\u201d Joe let go of the book as it settled in his pa\u2019s hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Monday morning Ben drove the surrey with Truman and Gabe away from the Ponderosa, while Adam, Hoss, and Joe rode their own mounts. The oldest sons knew this would be one of the greatest tests for Joe and so they rode one on either side of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled smugly at his youngest brother, he may not have reached his teen years yet, but he looked quite the image in his gray pants, black shirt and neck kerchief, and his grey jacket. The oldest brother laughed as Hoss repositioned Joe\u2019s black hat to sit straight on the boy\u2019s head, only to have Joe return it to being cocked slightly to the left side. Adam deeply sighed, wondering what would be in store for all of them once Joe became interested in\u2026 girls.<\/span><\/p>\n

Having kept an eye on the youngest member of their traveling party and his interactions with his brothers, Truman knew his debt to Adam was now paid in full. The boy was animated in his discussions with his brothers as he pointed out various landmarks and talked of the training he wanted to continue with his horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Before the stagecoach appeared, Truman made one more announcement to the family, \u201cI plan to see you boys next year.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if it would be possible for us to make a trip to Boston,\u201d Adam offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYa mean it?!\u201d squealed Joe, his voice breaking in pitch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI took your advisement seriously young man,\u201d Truman stated as he looked to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat advisement did you give?\u201d a nervous Ben inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be closing my practice in Boston once winter breaks; after I\u2019ve made inquiries where to relocate my practice. I\u2019d like to be a lot closer to my son, as well as my adventure advisor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

As the stage disappeared from view, Ben spoke, \u201cCome on boys, let\u2019s head home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCain\u2019t we eat in town?\u201d begged Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026\u201d Ben worried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I think we should,\u201d Joe sheepishly advised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d Ben asked. As the boy\u2019s father he had been worried about Joe\u2019s first trip to town. He was pleased with how it had gone so far, but he worried that something might happen to ruin the happy occasion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if big brother here faints from hunger on the way home, don\u2019t expect me to be able to help you get him back in the saddle.\u201d With that, Joe took off running, heading towards the diner they had passed as they entered town, with Hoss quick on his heels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe has a point,\u201d Adam sarcastically answered. \u201cHe\u2019ll be fine, Pa.\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just worried\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA father\u2019s prerogative, I know. But in case you haven\u2019t noticed,\u201d Adam wrapped his arm around his father\u2019s shoulder, \u201cwe have friends in town. They\u2019re keeping an eye on him. Pa\u2026 Let\u2019s just enjoy the fact that he is home\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben took a moment to look at the business men along the boardwalk and watched them smile and laugh Little Joe, followed by his much larger brother, ran past the front of their establishments. It had been a long time coming, Joe squealing in laughter, running away from the mock-threat his brother imposed. As their shenanigans continued, a few women feign anger at the boy\u2019s approach, but after quick tips of their hats and a rapid, \u201cExcuse us,\u201d from Hoss, the women shook their heads; raised hands hid their smiles.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt’s good to have you home.\u00a0 Thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~The End<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NOTE: I\u2019ve taken a little bit of literary license with history; the first psychology clinic opened in Germany in 1879. But that doesn\u2019t mean that doctors in America weren\u2019t also experimenting in treating the whole patient, mind and body.<\/span><\/p>\n

From the Etymology Online Dictionary: 1650s, “study of the soul,” from Modern Latin psychologia, probably coined mid-16c. in Germany by Melanchthon from Latinized form of Greek psykhe- “breath, spirit, soul” (see psyche) + logia “study of” (see -logy). Meaning “study of the mind” first recorded 1748, from Christian Wolff’s “Psychologia empirica” (1732); main modern behavioral sense is from early 1890s.<\/span><\/p>\n

Also, as noted in Part One, I\u2019ve taken the liberty to adjust the months that students would attend school. With The Ponderosa being located in the Sierra-Nevada Mountain range, the amount of snow totals at this elevation would make it practically impossible for those children who do not live in town to attend school during the winter months. So in this story, there is no lengthy time off during the summer, but time off during December through March.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Story Tags: Adam Cartwright, <\/span>Ben Cartwright, <\/span>Hop Sing, <\/span>Hoss Cartwright, <\/span>Joe \/ Little Joe Cartwright, <\/span>Paul Martin<\/p>\n

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

\n
Reviewer: <\/span>countrygirl<\/a><\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>21 Mar 2014 05:00 am Title: <\/span>Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa – Part TwoWow are you aware that last night i turned off the light pretty late o early (i mean well past midnight you can consider prettu early in the morning ) to finish part one and reading halfway in the part 2? I’ve jus t finished part 2 and i’m speechless i simply love your stories. you are a very talented writer who is able to write a 3 dimensional characters….Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>CountryGirl, I’m so sorry that you lost so much sleep on my account, but then again… It’s a great compliment to a writer that they’ve written something that has kept the reader ‘glued’ to the story that they just can’t put it down. Hopefully you’ll be able to catch up on your sleep over the weekend.Thank you for your compliments concerning my writing as well.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Maria Vaz<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>25 Feb 2014 07:57 am Title: <\/span>Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa – Part TwoWow, great story! I would like to have more knowledge of your language in order to be able to say correctly how much I appreciated the reading. Thank you!Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Maria, you sentiment regarding language says more than enough.\u00a0 Thank you for taking the time to read this story and for leaving your comments.<\/span><\/p>\n
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Reviewer: <\/span>Laurie\u00a0<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>22 Feb 2014 12:51 am Title: <\/span>Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa – Part TwoWhat a journey! Thanks so much!Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Laurie,Thank you for giving up some of your Friday night to read Part Two.\u00a0 It was quite the journey to put to paper.<\/em> And you’re welcome.<\/span><\/p>\n
**********<\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Reviewer: <\/span>dmc824\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
\n

Date: <\/span>21 Feb 2014 03:34 am Title: <\/span>Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa – Part TwoI have re-read this amazing story after reading and reviewing each chapter as they were writen. A lot of great Joe\/Adam and Joe\/Pa interaction. Very emotional story and well worth reading over and over! This is an A plus story.Author’s Response:<\/i><\/i>Denise,I’m glad you gave the story another read in its entirety.\u00a0 Thank you for your request after RTHOTP was posted for a follow-up story. I had thought to have Part Two tell Joe’s POV, but I couldn’t pull it off.\u00a0 So I decided on a continuation with Joe’s experiences being told in flashback sequences.\u00a0 It was quite exhausting to write, imagining the scenes of the story and then putting them to paper.\u00a0 I hate to say it, but I was quite happy to finally say, The End.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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Reviewer: <\/span>Belle<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>
\n Date: <\/span>20 Feb 2014 07:15 pm Title: <\/span>Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa – Part Two<\/span><\/p>\n

Great job!\u00a0 I admire your ability to expose emotions and weave a tender story.\u00a0 Thanks for sharing this with us.<\/span><\/p>\n

Author’s Response:<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Belle,<\/span><\/p>\n

Thank you for taking the time to read this story, and for your compliments.\u00a0 You’re welcome.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: A continuation of Restoring the Heart of the Ponderosa. The family looks forward to life returning to normal, but find they have a rocky road to travel as nightmares from the past intrude. <\/p>\n

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