{"id":2200,"date":"2005-02-21T22:12:55","date_gmt":"2005-02-22T03:12:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2200"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:09:08","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:09:08","slug":"lost-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2200","title":{"rendered":"Lost (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/strong>Awakening to find himself badly injured, Joe learns his father is dead. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0(6,970 words)
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Disclaimer:\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

LOST<\/strong><\/p>\n

The darkness that surrounded him seemed impenetrable. Vague sounds like voices reached him, but he couldn\u2019t make any sense of it at all. Then someone touched him and pain flared through his body. For a fleeting instant his eyes opened, but all he saw was a confused kaleidoscope of colours and movement before the darkness swallowed him completely and he knew no more.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

He couldn\u2019t move. It took Joe several seconds to realise that he was actually awake because his eyes wouldn\u2019t open and he couldn\u2019t move more than a fraction of an inch in any direction. Panic flared through his mind as he fought whatever was keeping him in place. It was useless, though and he tired after only a few moments. Lying there, panting, Joe became aware that there were leather straps around his wrists and something soft around his head. His legs felt like they weighed a ton each and they wouldn\u2019t move at all, although he could feel them. \u201cWhat\u2019s going on?\u201d he mumbled, his voice raspy and his throat dry.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was no answer, not that Joe expected one. He couldn\u2019t hear any sounds that would indicate another person\u2019s presence. Joe tried to move again, but all he succeeded in doing was making pain awake in his legs. \u201cPa?\u201d he called, as loudly as he could, but there was no response.<\/span><\/p>\n

He must have fallen asleep again, for the next time he woke, there was someone in the room, someone who was wiping his chest with a warm, damp cloth. Joe flinched and the hand was removed. \u201cWell hello,\u201d said a female voice. \u201cYou\u2019ve decided to waken up, have you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you?\u201d Joe asked. \u201cWhere am I?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll just get the doctor,\u201d the unknown voice replied. \u201cDon\u2019t go away.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Biting his lip in frustration \u2013 where did she think he was going to go and how did she think he was going to get there? \u2013 Joe contained himself with as much patience as he could, straining his ears to hear when she was going to return.<\/span><\/p>\n

It seemed forever to the helpless young man, but it was only a couple of minutes. He heard a door open and then heavy footsteps approach the bed where he lay. \u201cI believe you\u2019re awake, young man,\u201d asked a deep baritone voice. \u201cCan you tell me your name?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe Cartwright,\u201d Joe answered, without hesitation. \u201cWhat happened? Where am I? Where\u2019s my father?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were involved in an accident,\u201d the doctor replied. \u201cYou\u2019re in my clinic at Milltown.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Uneasily, Joe processed this information. \u201cWhere\u2019s my father?\u201d he repeated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr Cartwright, I\u2019m sorry to have to tell you this, but your father is dead.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Joe whispered. \u201cNo! No! No! No!\u201d He was shouting, struggling against the leather straps, oblivious of the pain shooting through his body. \u201cNo! Pa!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was barely aware of the needle sliding into his flesh, but his struggles gradually ceased and he was once more in a drugged slumber. The doctor looked down at him. \u201cI had the feeling he wasn\u2019t going to take that news well,\u201d he commented to his nurse. \u201cLet me know when he wakes up again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The next awakening was painful. Joe remembered with too-vivid clarity the news he had received and he groaned aloud. Instantly, a hand touched his arm and Joe flinched. \u201cWho\u2019s there?\u201d he asked, wishing that his eyes were uncovered so he could see.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Nurse Jones,\u201d replied the voice. \u201cDo you remember where you are, Mr Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI remember,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with me? Why can\u2019t I see? Why can\u2019t I move?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe doctor will be here in a minute, Mr Cartwright. He\u2019ll explain,\u201d the nurse soothed. \u201cWould you like a drink?\u201d\u00a0 She lifted Joe\u2019s head and helped him to sip. The cold water felt wonderful on his parched throat.<\/span><\/p>\n

As soon as the doctor appeared, Joe repeated his questions. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with me? Why can\u2019t I see? Why can\u2019t I move?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr Cartwright, what\u2019s the last thing you remember?\u201d the doctor asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

If there was one thing Joe hated, it was people who answered questions with questions. But instead of snapping, Joe gave it some thought. His head ached and it made remembering difficult, but he persevered. \u201cPa and I left the ranch to go to Sacramento,\u201d he whispered. \u201cI remember our camp the first night, but after that\u2026\u201d Joe frowned as he tried to bring more pictures to his mind. He failed. \u201cI don\u2019t remember,\u201d he concluded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re not exactly sure what happened, but your wagon overturned. You were trapped underneath it for quite some time. Both your legs are broken and you had a severe head injury.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs my back broken?\u201d Joe asked, fearfully. \u201cAm I blind?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, your back doesn\u2019t appear to be broken,\u201d the doctor replied. \u201cWe have you restrained, because you became violent as you woke up. You had a considerable amount of grit in your eyes. I don\u2019t think there\u2019s any permanent damage, but it\u2019ll be a few days before we take the bandages off.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about my Pa?\u201d Joe asked, his voice cracking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was dead when you were found,\u201d the doctor told him. \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Turning his head away, Joe fought back tears. \u201cHave you wired my brothers?\u201d he choked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe didn\u2019t know who to get in contact with,\u201d the man replied. \u201cBut if you give me the details, I\u2019ll arrange that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, Joe did as he was asked. He was exhausted by the news he had heard and wanted nothing more than to escape into sleep. His injuries began to hurt and he twisted reflexively against the restraints. \u201cI\u2019ll give you something for the pain,\u201d the doctor told Joe. \u201cBut the restraints stay until we\u2019re sure you won\u2019t become violent again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, I won\u2019t,\u201d Joe objected, but he was ignored.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the needle pierced his flesh once more, a thought that had been niggling at the back of his brain suddenly crystallised. \u201cWait!\u201d he cried. \u201cYou said a wagon\u2026\u201d The drug began to work. \u201cWhat\u2026wagon\u2026?\u201d Joe was unconscious once more.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI don\u2019t care if you like it,\u201d the man told the doctor. \u201cYou just keep the boy where he is until the father agrees to pass up on the contract. It won\u2019t take long. He\u2019s cracking already.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do I tell the boy when he asks for his brothers again?\u201d the doctor enquired. \u201cI can\u2019t keep sedating him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou tell him the truth,\u201d the other sneered. \u201cTell him there hasn\u2019t been a response.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou did this to him, didn\u2019t you?\u201d the medic demanded. \u201cYou broke his legs, didn\u2019t you? There wasn\u2019t really a wagon accident. The boy remembers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe remembers?\u201d The tone told the doctor that he had just made a major blunder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSort of,\u201d he hedged. \u201cI\u2019m keeping him sedated a lot of the time, but I can\u2019t keep doing that, either. He has had a bad head injury \u2013 masking the symptoms of that could be very bad for him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh dear,\u201d the other responded, with no trace of worry or sympathy in his tones. \u201cHow tragic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The nausea had to be the worst thing, Joe thought as he finished another bout of dry heaves. He had been unable to keep anything much down for days \u2013 or what felt like days \u2013 Joe had no way of discerning the passage of time. His eyes were still tightly bandaged and he was still restrained, although he protested this indignity every time he was awake.<\/span><\/p>\n

Never a good patient, Joe was now more than just frustrated by his injuries. He was downright suspicious of the people looking after him. Was this really a doctor? Joe knew by now that the man\u2019s name was Miller and that they were in Milltown, wherever that was, but he knew nothing else. Every time Joe started to ask an awkward question, he was sedated. Alarm bells were ringing loudly in his mind, but he didn\u2019t know how to set about freeing himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you heard from my brothers?\u201d Joe asked, the next time Dr Miller was with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere hasn\u2019t been a reply yet,\u201d Miller answered, but there was a certain hesitation in his voice that made the hair stand up on the back of Joe\u2019s neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Joe whispered, as he slumped back on the bed. He sought to look as cowed and harmless as he knew how. \u201cI had hoped\u2026\u201d He didn\u2019t finish his sentence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know how difficult this must be for you,\u201d Miller sympathised, resting a hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder. Joe flinched from the unexpected contact. \u201cNow tell me, how are you feeling? Is the nausea any better?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Joe admitted. He was exhausted, his body aching from lying in one position all the time. \u201cPlease, can\u2019t you take these restraints off? I don\u2019t know what you think I\u2019m going to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHead injuries are unpredictable,\u201d Miller replied. \u201cYou never know what a patient might do. This is standard procedure in my clinic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease,\u201d Joe begged, although it went against the grain to plead. \u201cI\u2019m injured and alone and my father is dead. Please, take off the restraints.\u201d He was practically in tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

Something in Joe\u2019s anguished plea must have struck a chord in Miller. \u201cAll right, Mr Cartwright, I\u2019ll loosen them slightly. But I won\u2019t remove them all together quite yet. I\u2019ll make another review of the situation tomorrow.\u201d He fiddled about at Joe\u2019s wrists and Joe felt the tight leather peel off his sweaty skin. The relief was quite overwhelming.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d he breathed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to get some rest now,\u201d Miler added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease don\u2019t sedate me,\u201d Joe cried.\u00a0 He sensed Miller hovering over him and held his breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, we\u2019ll see how you go without it,\u201d Miller agreed. Joe sagged with relief as he heard the footsteps retreating and then a room door closing \u2013 and locking.<\/span><\/p>\n

For the first time since he wakened, Joe was alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

His first action was to make sure that he really was alone. The sound of the locking door might have been a figment of his over-active imagination, but Joe didn\u2019t think so. Every time he had asked an awkward question, he had been sedated; the significance of that fact hadn\u2019t escaped Joe, although he had no idea why it was happening. But there were too many things that didn\u2019t add up here and Joe was determined to get to the bottom of what was going on.<\/span><\/p>\n

After several minutes, Joe was sure that he was alone in the room. He began to wriggle his wrists, trying to ease them out of the leather restraints. His skin was already sweaty and sticky from the constant chafing, but Joe had small bones and slender wrists, and he was sure that, with a little perseverance, he would manage to break free.<\/span><\/p>\n

It took more than a little perseverance; when Joe finally was able to get his right hand free, he was bleeding where he had torn the skin. Wincing as he stretched over to fiddle with the bindings on the other hand, he wished he had got his left hand free first, seeing as how he was left handed. It would have made things easier, but when was life ever that obliging?<\/span><\/p>\n

But at last, his hands were free and Joe rubbed his sore wrists for a few minutes to restore his circulation. His next act was to take the bandages off his eyes and he did so with a certain amount of trepidation. He had no way of knowing if the doctor had been telling the truth about his eyes or not. The lingering headache was a pointed reminded that he had suffered a head injury of some description, but Joe was unsure what to believe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cautiously, he opened his eyes and winced at how bright the light was. However, one thing was for sure; if he had had grit in his eyes, it was causing him no pain now and his eyesight was perfect. The relief made Joe feel quite weak as he gazed about the small room that was his prison.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a window to Joe\u2019s right, further down the room from where he lay on a bed. It was swathed in net curtains and Joe could tell only that it was daylight outside, but he couldn\u2019t see anything. The room was bare apart from a chair by the bed and a basin, which Joe guessed had been placed there for his use, should the nausea surface again, although quite how he was supposed to make use of it, with his hands restrained and his eyes covered, was beyond Joe\u2019s understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n

Glancing down at himself, Joe saw that his torso was covered with bruises and he winced as he forced himself into a sitting position. He ached all over and his muscles were stiff from disuse. He took hold of the blankets that covered him to the waist and threw them off.<\/span><\/p>\n

The shock was quite surprising, given that Joe knew his legs felt heavy and that he couldn\u2019t move them. The plaster casts extended from his toes to his hips on each leg and \u2013 Joe sucked in another shocked breath \u2013 there appeared to be something connecting his legs together just above the knee. Sitting up further, and willing the dizzy feeling to go, Joe reached out and touched the casts, feeling how thick and heavy they were. The plaster that connected his legs was too solid for Joe to break with his hands, although that didn\u2019t stop him from trying.<\/span><\/p>\n

Eventually, exhausted, Joe slumped back. He was shaking. He didn\u2019t know what to think. He was alone somewhere, he had been told his father had died, and he appeared to be a prisoner. Joe swallowed against the sudden dryness in his throat. And then he remembered again \u2013 the doctor said they had been in a wagon accident, and yet \u2013 Joe was panting now \u2013 they had left home mounted on their horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

What was going on?<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Joe was dozing when Miller returned. He had been unable to manoeuvre the heavy casts off the bed and he knew that there was no way he could climb out of the window, even if he did get to the floor. There was nothing around that he could use to hack the plaster off \u2013 in fact, there was nothing in the room at all. It didn\u2019t look like any clinic that Joe had ever seen.<\/span><\/p>\n

He woke as the door opened and glared defiantly at Miller. \u201cStop lying to me!\u201d he cried. \u201cWhat really happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you what happened,\u201d Miller responded, his tone quite cool. He reached into his pocket and withdrew a syringe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh no!\u201d Joe declared. \u201cYou\u2019re not going to sedate me again!\u201d He made a lunge for the man, wrestling for control of the glass vial, although he had no idea what he meant to do once it was disposed of. He could hardly get up and run out of the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

The struggle was brief and Joe did win, seeing the hated object crash to the floor and shatter. But Joe was exhausted by the fight, his injuries and the frequent drugging taking their toll on his strength. His head began to spin and before Joe knew quite what was going on, he was once more restrained to the bed, the leather cuffs buckled tightly around his wrists.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you doing this?\u201d he panted. \u201cWhere\u2019s my father?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what you mean,\u201d Miller replied. He checked the buckles and looked down at Joe, an oddly regretful expression on his face. \u201cIt would have been better for you to have done what you were told, Mr Cartwright. Much better for you.\u201d He turned and walked away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait!\u201d Joe yelled. \u201cCome back!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The door closed and locked once more.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Stretching as he left the house that morning, Hoss Cartwright was in no way prepared for the sight which met his eyes. For standing in front of the barn were Buck and Cochise, the horses belonging to his father and younger brother. Surprised, for there was no way they could have travelled to Sacramento and back in such a short time, Hoss peered around, half expecting to see them coming out of the barn or something.<\/span><\/p>\n

When there was no immediate sign, Hoss went forward slowly, and caught the trailing reins of the horses. Buck was plastered with dried sweat and when he checked, Hoss found that Cochise was the same, the black and white hair dried to hard points.<\/span><\/p>\n

Alarm bells were ringing loudly in Hoss\u2019 mind. There was no way either Ben or Joe would have left their horse in such a condition. \u201cAdam!\u201d he cried. \u201cAdam!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The house door opened and Adam Cartwright, the oldest son, walked out, frowning. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d he asked and then caught his breath as he saw the horses. \u201cWhere are Pa and Joe?\u201d he asked, as though Hoss had hidden them in his pants\u2019 pocket.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI dunno,\u201d Hoss replied. \u201cLook, the horses is all sweated up.\u201d He glanced at Adam, seeing the growing concern in the dark eyes. \u201cSomethin\u2019 must a happened ta them, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re right,\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cCome on, let\u2019s get saddled up and look for them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are we gonna look?\u201d Hoss wanted to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Adam responded. \u201cBut we\u2019ll follow the route they were supposed to take. We might find something.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, Hoss nodded. He might not like the idea any better than Adam did, but it sure did beat sitting at home all hollow.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It had been a long struggle, Ben Cartwright thought, as he finally freed his hands from the ropes that bound him. It had taken him several days to get to this point and he felt exhausted. Slowly, he drew his hands round in front of him and started to rub some life back into them. His arms felt heavy and the \u2018pins and needles\u2019 sensation of the returning circulation was more like knives and pitchforks, but Ben didn\u2019t complain. Now, he had the chance to get away and rescue Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rising cautiously to his feet Ben pressed his ear against the door and held his breath, listening. The house beyond the locked door of his prison was silent, as he had expected. It was still dark, although Ben knew dawn was only an hour or so away.<\/span><\/p>\n

It had been a long few days for Ben. He didn\u2019t really remember the ambush that had separated him from his son, but he knew only too well who had triggered it \u2013 Curt Holmes, his rival for a big meat\/timber\/horse contract with the army. He had already told Ben that he was holding Joe \u2013 who was seriously injured \u2013 until such time as Ben withdrew his bed for the army contract.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frantic with worry about Joe, Ben agreed that he would withdraw the bid, but so far, Holmes had not brought Ben pen and paper to write the letter. Ben was almost glad, for he wasn\u2019t sure he would be able to bring himself to do it. He was desperately concerned about Joe, but it went against the grain to knuckle under like that. Yet what choice did he have? The life of his son \u2013 of all his sons \u2013 meant more to him than a contract, however lucrative.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, Ben was not the type to take captivity quietly. He had been making his plans for escape since the day he had been brought in and tonight was the night he was going to put them into practice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Although the door to his room was locked, Ben had noticed that the hinges were on his side of the door. It took him some time, but he had hung and removed doors from their frames before and he was soon squeezing out through the gap he had opened.<\/span><\/p>\n

The house was still and hushed and Ben placed his feet very, very carefully to avoid any squeaky floor boards. He had to search the house, to make sure that Joe wasn\u2019t being held prisoner in another room. Somehow, Ben didn\u2019t think he was, although he had no real basis for this supposition. With his heart thundering in his chest, Ben searched the whole place before letting himself silently out of the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n

He had no idea where he was, but one thing was for sure \u2013 he wasn\u2019t going to hang around to ask Holmes. The other man had been soundly asleep in an upstairs room, but Ben couldn\u2019t count on him remaining asleep for long. He had to get away, get help and find Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben started walking.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The only thing to be said for his current predicament was that he now knew if it was day or night, but that was the only plus that Joe could find. He was still a prisoner, his wrists restrained for most of the day, unless he was eating. He was sure that either his food or drink was drugged, for he always seemed sleepy afterwards and could provide only a token resistance to being restrained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Despite sleeping so much, Joe didn\u2019t feel rested. His body ached all the time \u2013 a common side effect of sedatives, although Joe didn\u2019t know that \u2013 and the heavy casts on his legs prevented him from moving to get comfortable. His muscles cramped regularly and the headache he had initially woken up with hadn\u2019t gone away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Bored beyond belief, Joe couldn\u2019t prevent his thoughts from dwelling on what had happened. He alternated between believing that Ben was dead and denying that it was true. He wondered why his brothers hadn\u2019t responded to the wire telling them of the accident and then realised that it wouldn\u2019t have been sent. He concentrated hard to remember what had happened. But his mind was a blank.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The evidence was obvious to Hoss and Adam; the campsite had been attacked. There was some blood \u2013 not much, but enough to make the brothers deeply concerned. With Hoss in the lead, they set off following the tracks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh-oh,\u201d Hoss commented, pulling Chubb to a halt. \u201cLook! They split up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Biting his lip, Adam studied the tracks. \u201cI think we\u2019d better follow this set,\u201d he decided. \u201cThey lead towards Milltown. We might enlist the help of the sheriff there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess,\u201d Hoss agreed, although he sounded dubious.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMuch as I would love to follow both sets,\u201d Adam replied to the unasked question, \u201cI don\u2019t think we should split up, do you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, yer right,\u201d Hoss nodded. \u201cI jist\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cI feel the same way.\u201d He sighed and looked at the second set of tracks. \u201cLet\u2019s leave a marker here just in case,\u201d he suggested. \u201cThat way, if the weather turns, we\u2019ll know which direction to follow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood thinkin\u2019,\u201d Hoss enthused and jumped down to help Adam lay out a marker. They both paused for a moment when that was done and then mounted again, hurrying towards Milltown.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Sitting heavily on a convenient rock, Ben Cartwright paused to catch his breath and to visually assess his surroundings. He had walked about seven miles, he thought and was pretty sure that he was headed towards Milltown. He would be able to get help from the sheriff there \u2013 assuming that Holmes didn\u2019t catch up with him in the meantime. So far, there had been no sign of pursuit, but Ben knew that wouldn\u2019t last.<\/span><\/p>\n

Even as the thought crossed his mind, he heard hoof beats on the wind. Panicking, he glanced around, but there was really nowhere to hide. He crouched down behind the rock, determined that he wouldn\u2019t go easily. It didn\u2019t sound like a large number of horses and Ben wondered if Holmes\u2019 men had split up and would come at him from all sides. Either way, he would go down fighting, he decided.<\/span><\/p>\n

So it was with a distinct sense of shock that he recognised the men riding towards him. He rose abruptly from his hiding place and shouted, oblivious to the startled shying of both horses. \u201cAdam! Hoss!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Adam was down off his mount in a moment, putting a hand on his father\u2019s shoulder, searching the older man\u2019s face. \u201cAre you all right? Where\u2019s Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Allowing himself to sag with relief, Ben sat down on the rock again, although he couldn\u2019t stop himself throwing a glance over his shoulder. \u201cI don\u2019t know where Joe is,\u201d he replied, wearily. \u201cI haven\u2019t seen him since we were attacked a few days ago. I just know that Holmes has him prisoner somewhere. We\u2019ve got to get to Milltown and get the sheriff\u2019s help.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right?\u201d Adam persisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA few bruises, but I\u2019m fine, son,\u201d Ben assured him. \u201cHow did you know to come looking for us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBuck and Cochise came home alone yesterday,\u201d Adam responded as Hoss handed Ben the canteen. Their father drank deeply. \u201cWe found your camp site. There were tracks, but they split apart back there about a mile.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI reckon them other tracks was the ones to where Pa was,\u201d Hoss decided, eyeing the tracks that Ben had left.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hope flared in Ben\u2019s tired eyes. \u201cLet\u2019s keep following these ones then,\u201d he suggested. \u201cAnd we\u2019ll find Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s talk to the sheriff first,\u201d Adam suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It seemed like an incredible waste of time to Ben that he had a bath, a shave, a hot meal and a change of clothing, but he did feel a lot better for it afterwards. He sat in the hotel dining room, nursing a cup of coffee and smothered a yawn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI haven\u2019t seen anyone fitting that description around town,\u201d the sheriff was saying, \u201cbut I\u2019ll ask around. Have you spoken to the doctor? There\u2019s always the chance that he might have seen your son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t see a doctor\u2019s sign anywhere in town,\u201d Adam replied. He didn\u2019t add that he\u2019d hoped to have the doctor check Ben out \u2013 his father was no more enamoured of visiting the physician than his youngest son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe lives a little way out of town,\u201d the sheriff replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go there now,\u201d Ben suggested. \u201cSheriff, can you point us in the right direction?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure can,\u201d the man agreed. \u201cI\u2019ll just get my horse and meet you out front in a few minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder if the other sheriff has picked up Holmes yet,\u201d Ben mused aloud as they went to collect their mounts from the livery. He didn\u2019t like to admit how uneasy it made him feel that his captor was still at large.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll hear soon enough,\u201d Adam assured him. He didn\u2019t want to admit to his unease over the whole situation.<\/span><\/p>\n

They followed the sheriff out of town. Dusk was draping the landscape with long purple shadows, but the Cartwrights were oblivious to the beauty of the evening. They simply wanted to find their missing brother and son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe doc must be busy,\u201d the sheriff suddenly commented, pointing to a house standing alone at the side of the road. Several horses were tethered outside.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s heart began to race. \u201cHolmes!\u201d he exclaimed and kicked the rented horse he was riding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, wait!\u201d Adam called, for his father was unarmed. Ben paid no heed; his only thought was to save Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

As the door opened once again, Joe dragged his heavy eyelids open and looked at the men standing there. His latest dose of sedative seemed to be taking much longer than usual to wear off and he found it difficult to muster much interest in the new arrivals. He was feeling nauseous again and had been unable to keep anything much down that day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow long will it take to get those casts off?\u201d demanded a man. Joe blinked. Didn\u2019t he have broken legs?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe better part of an hour, I would think,\u201d the doctor replied. \u201cBut I really wouldn\u2019t consider moving him. He\u2019s not been well today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think I care about that?\u201d Holmes replied. \u201cBut I can\u2019t wait an hour. I need to get him out of here now.\u201d He frowned, deep in thought. \u201cAll right, we\u2019ll just have to sling him belly down over a saddle.\u201d He snapped his finger at two of his men. \u201cBring him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait!\u201d the doctor protested. \u201cYou really shouldn\u2019t move him and not like that! Do you want to kill him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, doc?\u201d Holmes sneered. \u201cIsn\u2019t the thought of your continued freedom enough incentive for you?\u201d He laughed. \u201cI can get you sent away for a long time, don\u2019t forget. And I bet you haven\u2019t been exactly following good medial practice while taking care of this young man, now have you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The doctor flushed, though Joe didn\u2019t know if it was through shame or anger. \u201cWhat do you want?\u201d Joe slurred.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShut up, boy,\u201d Holmes advised him. \u201cIf you stay quiet, I might allow you to live a little longer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Panic surged through Joe\u2019s belly, helping him shake off the last lingering effects of the sedative. He had a sudden feeling that it was dark and he could hear voices as blows rained down on him. He felt searing pain in his legs and heard his father\u2019s despairing cry. \u201cJoe!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Blinking, Joe came back to reality, panting as he gazed into the face of the man who had led the attack on their campsite. \u201cYou!\u201d he panted, shaken. \u201cIt was you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Too late, Joe realised he would have done better to keep his mouth shut. Holmes\u2019 face grew dark and he glared down at the helpless young man. Joe felt very vulnerable, and began to twist hopelessly against the restraints on his wrists. Holmes back-handed him across the face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoss!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Interrupted in his desire to make Ben\u2019s son pay for Ben\u2019s escape, Holmes looked at the door, his expression telling his man that this had better be good. \u201cWhat?\u201d he snarled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFour men are coming,\u201d was the response.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou, stay here with him,\u201d Holmes ordered one of his men. \u201cIf anything happens to me, blow his brains out.\u201d He smiled down at Joe, enjoying the panic that crossed his captive\u2019s face. \u201cI warned your father, boy. If he behaved and did as I said, you might have got to live. But he didn\u2019t do as I said and so you\u2019re going to die.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Although he tried to appear stoic, Joe\u2019s breath was coming in panicky gasps. He knew that there was no way out of this situation. He was completely helpless, even if he did get his hands free. The number of drugs he had ingested over the last few days had sapped his strength and the injuries he had sustained in the attack on the camp were severe. He closed his eyes as the gun came to rest by his temple.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The element of surprise was gone. They all knew that. Nevertheless, they didn\u2019t hesitate. Joe\u2019s life was in danger \u2013 somehow, they were all convinced that Joe was inside that building. Ben snatched up a stout branch as he jumped down from his horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

He needed it at once, as a man launched himself out of the front door. Ben didn\u2019t have time for thought; he just reacted. The branch swung around and although he didn\u2019t get his opponent\u2019s head, he did manage to strike a hard blow to one arm, causing the man to drop his gun.<\/span><\/p>\n

A second, follow-up, blow caught the man in the solar plexus and he went down. Ben dropped the branch and scooped up the gun. He heard the others behind him and went forward.<\/span><\/p>\n

A shot fired from the open door and they all ducked, someone behind Ben returning fire. The next instant, bullets were flying everywhere.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

When the first shot sounded, Joe\u2019s eyes opened wide and he looked right up into the face of the man who held a gun to his head. If he was going to die, Joe was going to face death with his eyes wide open. It seemed to disconcert the gunman, who hesitated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Although there was nothing Joe could do, the doctor didn\u2019t miss his chance. He slammed into the man\u2019s back, knocking him away from Joe and to the floor. He reached out to gain control of the gun and was met with a fist in his face. Miller fell away.<\/span><\/p>\n

As a doctor, Miller had spent most of his life taking care of others. He had never learned to fight \u2013 wasn\u2019t sure he had ever been in a fight, even as a child. His punches were ineffectual for the most part. But he wouldn\u2019t give up. He might have compromised his ethics beyond repair over the last few days, but he couldn\u2019t stand by and see a helpless man murdered in cold blood. Miller fought on.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the door to the room opened once more, there was a shot and both the men on the floor lay still. Joe was frozen with horror, unable to do anything to free himself or help the other man. His eyes swivelled to the newcomers, sure he was going to be looking at his own death once more. The sight of his father brought tears to his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

The relief was so incredible that Joe fainted.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cJoe, can you hear me?\u201d Ben had Joe in his arms the moment the restraints were released.<\/span><\/p>\n

The young man\u2019s eyelashes fluttered and then Joe opened confused green eyes. \u201cPa?\u201d He blinked, scarcely believing what he was seeing. \u201cAre you really here?\u201d he whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally here,\u201d Ben soothed. His hand rose, unbidden, to stroke the errant curl back from Joe\u2019s forehead. \u201cJoe, are you all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

For a moment, Joe couldn\u2019t speak. He choked on a sob. \u201cThey told me you were dead,\u201d he gasped and his hand clutched the front of Ben\u2019s tan vest, the knuckles white. \u201cOh, Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy, Joe, easy,\u201d Ben soothed, tears standing in his eyes. He had very little idea of what Joe had gone through, but it was clear to see that the last few days had not been easy for his youngest son. \u201cWe need to get Joe out of here,\u201d he declared, looking round at the others in the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll find a wagon,\u201d Hoss mumbled and hurried out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll help you carry Joe,\u201d Adam offered. The stench of death would soon overpower the small room. Neither the doctor nor the gunman had survived the last bullet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Together, they carried Joe from the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

There wasn\u2019t another doctor in the area to assess Joe\u2019s condition. They had no way to know how badly injured Joe\u2019s legs really were and so Ben opted to take his son back to Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

Together, Joe and Ben had pieced together the ambush that night. Holmes and his men had come out of nowhere. Joe was already asleep, Ben drifting on the fringes. Ben had fought back as best he could, but he was distracted by the scream that Joe let out as an iron bar was crashed against his legs not once, but twice. A fist got through Ben\u2019s guard and that was the last thing he remembered until waking up as Holmes\u2019 prisoner.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe remembered only being dragged from sleep, and blow after blow raining down on him until the first crashing pain in his legs. His memory stopped there, mercifully for him. There were no gang members left alive to tell them that Joe sustained his head injury as he was dropped to the ground; no gang members to tell that Ben was going to be shot the minute he wrote the letter to the army.; no one to say that the doctor had accidentally killed a man by giving an overdose of morphine a few years before. Miller had confessed all to the other patient he had at the time and Holmes had lied for him. Miller had been performing certain services for Holmes ever since.<\/span><\/p>\n

The journey home was once that Joe wished he could forget. Every bump on the road jarred him awake and he wished fervently that he could have had some of the sedatives that had been in his system. He had still had some symptoms of concussion and he became motion sick in the back of the wagon, necessitating more stops along the way than Ben was happy with. But all that mattered to him was getting Joe home to be checked out and if Joe needed to stop frequently, then they would stop as often as necessary.<\/span><\/p>\n

It took three days for them to get to Virginia City. They were all filthy and tired, but the relief at being back was overwhelming. They stopped first at Doc Martin\u2019s and carried Joe carefully into the surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll cut these casts off, Ben and see what we\u2019ve got,\u201d Paul told his friend. He didn\u2019t like to say that if Joe\u2019s legs were broken and hadn\u2019t been set properly, then the young man was going to be in dire straits. It was possible to re-break the bones, but it was never entirely successful and the last thing Paul wanted was for Joe to be permanently lamed.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Paul worked, Ben, Adam and Hoss took turns sitting with Joe while the others washed up. Joe was as tense as a bow, fear showing in those remarkable green eyes that were the window to his soul for those who knew him well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you got any pain, Joe?\u201d Paul asked, as the last of the plaster fell away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSome,\u201d Joe replied, truthfully. He looked down at his legs, which seemed very pale and wrinkled. The sides of both legs were dotted with large, yellowy bruises. Joe suspected that they had, initially, been very dark purple. He braced himself as Paul reached to touch them.<\/span><\/p>\n

A hand took Joe\u2019s and he clutched at that lifeline. Ben did not wince as his son\u2019s hand closed tightly on his own. He could bear anything for his sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that sore?\u201d Paul asked. His touch was infinitely gentle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA bit,\u201d Joe admitted. \u201cNot as sore as when I\u2019ve had broken bones before.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Paul replied, moving on to examine Joe\u2019s other leg. Again, the touch was light. Joe wondered how on earth Paul could learn anything from such a delicate probe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Finally, Paul straightened up. \u201cWhat\u2019s the verdict, doc?\u201d Joe asked. He could hear the tiny quiver in his voice. A quick squeeze from Ben told him that his father had heard it, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf your legs were broken, they weren\u2019t bad breaks,\u201d Paul replied. \u201cBut I don\u2019t think they were. Oh, the bruising has been bad, as I\u2019m sure you can see and they will be very tender for some time to come. The damage has been to the soft tissue, not to the bone. But sometimes, a soft tissue injury will take longer to heal than a break.\u201d He tapped his chin thoughtfully. \u201cJoe, let\u2019s get you up on your feet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Joe agreed. He accepted help to swing his legs around \u2013 the muscles were weak after almost seven days in plaster. He grabbed Ben\u2019s arm and Paul took the other. Adam leant over the bed to steady Joe around the waist. Hoss hovered uselessly.<\/span><\/p>\n

It hurt \u2013 there was no doubt of that. But Joe\u2019s legs bore his weight quite easily and the pain subsided to a manageable level after a few moments. Joe shook off the support and took a few, stiff steps on his own.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess you\u2019ve got your answer,\u201d Adam smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I have at that,\u201d Joe agreed, grinning broadly. \u201cCan I go home, doc?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you\u2019d rather put some pants on first,\u201d Paul murmured, unable to hide the laughter as Joe coloured. He had forgotten that his clothes had disappeared and he\u2019d been wearing only an old shirt of Ben\u2019s along with his underwear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go an\u2019 git ya some clothes,\u201d Hoss offered, as Joe finally saw the funny side and began to laugh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d wait a few more days before you attempt to ride,\u201d Paul advised, as the hilarity died down.<\/span><\/p>\n

At that point, Joe would have agreed to almost anything. Hoss was soon back and Joe slipped on the clothes with a feeling of complete contentment. They would soon be home.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cIts good to be back,\u201d Joe sighed as he settled into his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it is,\u201d Ben agreed, tucking Joe into bed. \u201cI thought I\u2019d lost you, Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Remembering the fear he had felt, Joe nodded. \u201cI know,\u201d he whispered. \u201cAnd I thought you were dead.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wish it hadn\u2019t happened to you,\u201d Ben confessed. \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not your fault, Pa!\u201d Joe objected. \u201cYou didn\u2019t know this was going to happen. And hey, it\u2019s over. We\u2019re both home and in one piece, just for a change.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, Ben nodded. \u201cWe ought to celebrate,\u201d he suggested. \u201cHave a \u2018Joe Cartwright\u2019s Back Home in One Piece Party\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like a right good idea ta me, Pa,\u201d Hoss declared, coming in carrying a tray with a plate of broth on it. \u201cAn\u2019 Hop Sing says if\u2019n ya don\u2019 git downstairs right now an\u2019 eat, he\u2019s gonna go back to Ol\u2019China.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling at this oft repeated threat, Joe jerked his head towards the door. \u201cBetter hurry up,\u201d he advised. \u201cYou know who really runs the Ponderosa, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rising, tacitly admitting that Joe might well be right, Ben muttered, \u201cFunny, I thought that was me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

The End<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0Awakening to find himself badly injured, Joe learns his father is dead.<\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0(6,970 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":13990,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23,41],"tags":[14,15,17,16],"class_list":["post-2200","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-hoss","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2406,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/House-Divided.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12120,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12120","url_meta":{"origin":2200,"position":0},"title":"Blundered Seduction (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"December 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Caught with his pants down and in a compromising situation by the one person he'd least likely want to find him as such, Joe learns three valuable lessons; no one ever died of embarrassment, chose your friends carefully, and being 16 and still a virgin is nothing to be\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":6768,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6768","url_meta":{"origin":2200,"position":1},"title":"A Deadly Day (by rosecartwright)","author":"rosecartwright","date":"November 4, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe is home sick, but things go downhill for this young Cartwright. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (635 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/2-joe.jpg?fit=237%2C221&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":6742,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6742","url_meta":{"origin":2200,"position":2},"title":"Grazed (by Jayne)","author":"Jayne","date":"May 4, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0When Adam finds a slightly injured Joe, they share a strangely special moment. \u00a0A Young Cartwright short story. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ \u00a0WC \u00a0767","rel":"","context":"In "Adam \/ Joe"","block_context":{"text":"Adam \/ Joe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1091"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12136,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12136","url_meta":{"origin":2200,"position":3},"title":"The Rebirth of Joe Cartwright (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"August 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"DebbieB passed away Christmas 2021. Any reader wishing to read this story should e:mail the Brandsters:\u00a0 Brandsters2020@gmail.com","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/feature-2.jpg?fit=338%2C338&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":3156,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3156","url_meta":{"origin":2200,"position":4},"title":"Easter (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"March 24, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A short introspective piece as a son waits to hear if his father will live. Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 (1,075 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/How-to-say-goodbye-Bilder-14.jpg?fit=712%2C528&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12147,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12147","url_meta":{"origin":2200,"position":5},"title":"He Said Not To Tell (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"May 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"The author requests those who wish to read this series contact her via eMail: DLB1234@aol.com","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/1-joe.jpg?fit=238%2C226&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2200","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/45"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2200"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2200\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/13990"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2200"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2200"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2200"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}