{"id":2417,"date":"2007-03-10T22:31:21","date_gmt":"2007-03-11T03:31:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2417"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:11:36","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:11:36","slug":"finding-the-way-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2417","title":{"rendered":"Finding the Way Home (by Donna)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0 The success of the Ponderosa causes a long time enemy to seek its destruction, using whatever means possible.<\/p>\n

Rated K+\u00a0 (13,545 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Only Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Only<\/a>
\nAdjustments
\nFinding the Way Home<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finding the Way Home<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the contract is awarded to Joseph and Ben Cartwright.\u201d Grumbling filled the meeting room as a large group of men headed to the exit. Ben turned and looked with pride at his son. What a long way from the days of Will Povey and that lumber contract, Ben thought as he watched his son shake the hands of the men who had made the decision to use Cartwright timber for their project. As Ben walked towards him, Joe was the picture of self-assuredness as he discussed his plans. \u201cOnce you forward us the specifications, we\u2019ll be able to get things underway\u201d Joe said confidently. Taking up a pen to sign the contract before him, he looked up at his father, and pointed the pen towards him, as if to ask if he\u2019d like to do the signing. No words were needed between the men, as Ben\u2019s chocolate colored eyes told Joe that his signature spoke for the Ponderosa just as much as his own. Joe smiled and nodded as he put the pen to paper.<\/p>\n

Still reveling in the moment, Ben slapped Joe on the back. \u201cGreat job, son. How about we head to the Silver Dollar for a quick celebratory drink?\u201d \u201cDon\u2019t have to ask me twice, Pa, let\u2019s go.\u201d Joe replied, as they walked into the saloon. Settling in at a back table, Joe looked around the room and saw most of the usual suspects, gambling and flirting with the saloon gals as always. \u201cJoe Cartwright, it has been AGES since you\u2019ve graced our fine establishment\u201d said a barmaid as she placed their drinks on the table. Joe felt his face flush as his father looked on. \u201cW-Well, Rosy, I guess getting married does change a man\u2019s lifestyle a bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rosy put her tray to her chest. \u201cMy, my, I forgot about that. You up and marrying a girl from back east. That was the talk of the town for quite a while. You ever tire of her, don\u2019t forget, we are all still here and would love for\u2026\u201d Joe cut her off abruptly. \u201cRosy, I could never tire of my wife. Never. And don\u2019t you forget that.\u201d His emerald eyes flashing, Rosy knew he was serious. Dead serious. \u201cOK Joe, I understand. You take care now.\u201d She rushed from the table before she could say another word. Ben chucked as he teased Joe, \u201cAnd just what kind of reputation were you giving the Cartwright name before Merrie came along?\u201d Joe blushed once again as he stammered, \u201cN-Nothing you\u2019d want to know about, Pa, really. I have to go and pick up Merrie now. I-I\u2019ll meet you at home.\u201d He took a last sip of his beer and left the bar in haste, nervously knocking down a few chairs in the process. When you do things like that son, you are still a young boy to me, Ben mused as he took another sip of beer.<\/p>\n

The Territorial Enterprise office was busy with the sound of the printing press humming in the background. \u201cAnyone here?\u201d Joe yelled as he entered. A voice came from the back room. \u201cI\u2019m in here!\u201d Joe smiled as he headed back and grabbed his wife from behind. After giving her a long kiss, Joe asked, \u201cAre you ready to go home, Mrs. Cartwright?\u201d Merrie turned and looked up at him. \u201cGive me five minutes and I\u2019m all yours. How did the contract go?\u201d Joe said proudly, \u201cWe got it, Merrie. They\u2019ll be using Cartwright lumber on the new wharf project.\u201d \u201cThat\u2019s great!\u201d she cried. \u201cBetween that, the horse contracts coming in from the Army and the rest, it looks like it\u2019ll be a busy summer.\u201d \u201cSure does\u201d Joe answered, \u201cNow how about we get out of here and go visit the Yankee Granite Head?\u201d \u201cBe nice to your brother, cowboy.\u201d Merrie admonished. \u201cAfter all, he did stay a bit longer than he anticipated working on our new home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s move that piece over here!\u201d Adam was hard at work on the new Cartwright house. As much as he refused to believe it, he still loved working in the outdoors on projects like this. Living in a big city had robbed him of this pleasure for too long, and it felt good to be in the wide open spaces once again, the smell of fresh cut pine in the air and the sounds of rapping hammers all around him. Putting his hands on his hips, Adam looked at the work in progress and was pleased with what he saw. I hope that Joe and Merrie are as happy with it as I am, he thought, as he picked up the blueprints and walked to the front of the house. As the afternoon wore on, Joe and Merrie arrived to take a peek at Adam\u2019s handiwork. Merrie looked up at the house, her face captivated by the sight before her. \u201cSpectacular, simply spectacular.\u201d She couldn\u2019t take her eyes off of the impressive structure in front of her. It was bigger than any home she had ever seen back east. Joe was equally impressed with his brother\u2019s work. \u201cAdam, I can\u2019t thank you enough…\u201d Adam interrupted his brother. \u201cJoe, it has been wonderful being home and being part of the family again. This is just a small gesture to say \u2018Thanks\u2019 for everything you and Merrie have done to make me feel like I had never left.\u201d \u201cSmall gesture my foot, Adam Cartwright. Look at the size of this place. It is a palace.\u201d Always one to spurn a compliment, Adam put his hand on his brother\u2019s shoulder and changed the subject. \u201cHow about I give the two of you the grand tour of your new home? Still a bit to be done, but maybe it\u2019ll help Merrie pick out her d\u00e9cor.\u201d Both Merrie and Joe nodded in agreement, and Adam proudly led the way to the front door.<\/p>\n

The brown-haired gentleman sat in a windowless room, awaiting the arrival of his friend. It had been a while since they had met, and the gentleman wasn\u2019t anxious to inform his friend of the latest news from town. He knew just how angry he would be when he was told of the Cartwright\u2019s latest success. A metal door creaked open, and a uniformed guard led a man, shackled on both his ankles and wrists, to a nearby chair. The guard walked back to the door and exited, a large slam indicating that he was gone. The inmate looked to his friend, his eyes fixed on his face. He growled, \u201cSo? Did you get that timber contract?\u201d The gentleman started to fidget in his chair, his eyes looking to the ground. \u201cW-Well, no, Will, we weren\u2019t able to secure that contract. Someone came in with a better bid.\u201d Will Povey\u2019s eyes burned with anger. He yelled, \u201cAre you kidding? Who could\u2019ve bested that bid?\u201d He didn\u2019t need his friend to respond. He looked up and angrily banging his fists on his lap, snarled, \u201cCartwright. It was Joe Cartwright, wasn\u2019t it?\u201d All his friend could do was nod.<\/p>\n

The anger that Will Povey had for Joe started many years before. Joe was in his early twenties when he tried to strike out on his own and win a timber contract for the Ponderosa. Povey was shocked when Joe actually won the contract. In his anger, Povey tried to sabotage Joe at every turn as he worked to fulfill his obligation to the mining company. Joe was able to meet his deadlines despite the interruptions, and Povey was arrested and charged with a multitude of crimes, resulting in his long incarceration. He still had many years to serve, but he had a group of men on the outside who were still willing to work for him, the brown-haired gentleman being one of them. As Povey sat, his mind raced as he tried to plot his long-overdue revenge on the Cartwrights. The two men sat across from each other in prolonged silence, until Povey finally looked up and spoke to his friend. \u201cI think it\u2019s time we taught the Cartwrights a well-deserved lesson. If my plan works, their empire will be nothing but a pile of sawdust \u2013 worthless.\u201d \u201cHow do you intend on doing that?\u201d the friend asked cautiously. Povey smirked. \u201cHit them where it hurts \u2013 where they are most vulnerable. And I think I know exactly where that may be.\u201d<\/p>\n

The day finally arrived when Joe and Merrie were able to move into their new home. Merrie was like a little girl, barely able to contain her excitement. \u201cJoe, did you and Adam put all the furniture where we had planned? How does it look? Will we\u2026\u201d Joe took her hand and laughed. \u201cSweetheart, you\u2019ll get to see it all for yourself in a little while. Gee, I\u2019ve never known you to be so impatient.\u201d \u201cYes, Joe Cartwright, when it comes to things like this, I can get impatient. How\u2019s about you getting that buckboard ready so we can head over there \u2013 Pa and Adam are waiting for us.\u201d Merrie turned and headed out the front door, never looking back. Joe watched as she rushed out and shrugging his shoulders to no one in particular, grabbed his hat and holster as he headed out to join her.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think Merrie will like it, Pa? Adam was extremely concerned that his sister-in- law be pleased with his final product. \u201cAdam, I think she will be very happy there. Your meticulous attention to every detail can never be duplicated. That home is one in a million.\u201d Ben\u2019s voiced cracked with emotion at those last words. He knew that with the end of this project, Adam would be heading back east. Ben had enjoyed every minute of Adam\u2019s visit over the past few months, and was dreading the inevitable parting. Ben was happy as he realized that this visit had firmly reestablished the relationship between Adam and his family, and for that Ben was grateful. Perhaps it wouldn\u2019t be too long before Adam would visit the Ponderosa again \u2013 or perhaps, come home to stay.<\/p>\n

The buckboard pulled into the yard, and Merrie hopped out before Joe was able to fully stop the horses. She was running towards the door when Joe yelled, \u201cHOLD IT!\u201d Merrie stopped dead in her tracks, and turned around. \u201cMrs. Cartwright, did you forget something?\u201d Joe asked with a mischievous smile on his face. Exasperated, Merrie waved her arms in the air. \u201cWhat! What did I forget, Joe?\u201d All of a sudden, her face dropped. Sheepishly, she looked at Joe and said softly, \u201cJoe, I\u2019m sorry. The threshold. I totally forgot.\u201d Joe started to laugh. \u201cHoney, you\u2019re excited. I totally understand.\u201d He opened his arms and Merrie rushed straight into them. With one arm, Joe scooped her up and headed to the door. He used his foot to push the door open as he entered. Putting Merrie down, he kissed her as he told her, \u201cWelcome home, Mrs. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe and Merrie spent the next few weeks settling into their new home. Merrie was busy sewing curtains, and putting the finishing touches to the various rooms. When he was home, Joe was usually pressed into service moving furniture in different directions, and then usually back into its original place. He found his wife\u2019s attention to detail amusing and loved seeing her so happy. Merrie continued working at the Territorial Enterprise once a week, as editing the weekend edition was something that she truly enjoyed. Back at the Ponderosa, Adam was getting ready for his return to New York. He never anticipated enjoying his return as much as he had. Packing his trunk, he smiled as he recollected all of the memorable moments he had spent with his father, brother, and new sister-in-law. He looked wistfully out his bedroom window as the moon beamed down brightly in the yard, and saw his father walking back from the barn. How he was going to miss Pa, he thought. Time goes by so quickly, and he wondered just how long it would be before he saw him again\u2026..if he would get to see him again. The idea hit Adam like a bolt of lightning \u2013 he\u2019d ask Ben to return to New York with him and stay for an extended visit.<\/p>\n

All of the Cartwrights came together for dinner the next evening. The mood was somber as everyone knew that the time for Adam\u2019s departure was drawing near. Adam surveyed his family around him and stood glass in hand. \u201cI\u2019d like to propose a toast \u2013 if you\u2019d all indulge me. Words are not enough to tell all of you just how happy I\u2019ve been here these past months. Joe, I am so proud of the man you\u2019ve become. The Ponderosa has thrived and grown under your direction. Pa, Joe wouldn\u2019t have been able to accomplish this without your love and guidance. Merrie, you have brought a breath of fresh air to the Ponderosa, and your endless love and support for Joe has helped him mature in a way I never thought I\u2019d see. You have no idea just how much I will miss all of you.\u201d Adam composed himself, as he felt his voice start to waver. \u201cPa, I wanted to ask you, well, if perhaps you\u2019d like to come and visit New York. It looks to me like Joe has everything under control here, and if he didn\u2019t mind, I thought it would be a good opportunity for you to see the east and just how much it\u2019s grown since you\u2019ve been gone.\u201d Ben looked up at Adam incredulously. As he started to respond, Joe interjected. \u201cThat sounds like a great idea, Adam. Things here are well underway \u2013 definitely under control. And Pa would be back for the cattle drives, so I could head out and he could run the ranch operation.\u201d Merrie chimed in, \u201cI can handle the books while you\u2019re away, Pa. I\u2019ve watched you often enough to keep things in order.\u201d Ben looked at his children and smiled. He realized that he wouldn\u2019t be able to make a trip of this distance much longer, and knew that the ranch would be in capable hands until he returned. \u201cI guess the two of you have made my decision easier to make. Adam, will you be able to change those reservations?\u201d Adam\u2019s face lit up. He looked to his brother and nodded in thanks.<\/p>\n

Ben, Joe, Adam and Merrie exchanged hugs as the stage approached. Ben pulled Joe aside as the stage pulled in and the drivers started to load the luggage. He looked at Joe with watery eyes as he told him, \u201cI know you have everything under control, son. But if you need me to head back for anything, you just send a wire, you hear me?\u201d Joe looked at his father reassuringly. \u201cPa, it\u2019s going to be fine. Don\u2019t you concern yourself with anything. For once, you don\u2019t have to worry about me \u2013 did you ever think you\u2019d see the day? You enjoy yourself with Adam. I think he needs you more than he\u2019s leading on. I bet that once you\u2019re on your way, he\u2019ll have a lot to tell you.\u201d Ben smiled. \u201cWhen did you get so insightful?\u201d Joe looked at his father and winked as he replied, \u201cMarriage can do that to a man Pa.\u201d As the stage departed, Merrie turned to Joe as she told him, \u201cOK Mr. Cartwright, let\u2019s get to work!\u201d Pulling her close, Joe nuzzled her ear. \u201cAnd what type of work are you talking about Mrs. Cartwright?\u201d Merrie looked at her husband, giving him a wry smile. \u201cWhatever work you\u2019d like to start first.\u201d With that, Joe grabbed Merrie\u2019s hand as they ran to the buckboard to start the ride home.<\/p>\n

Everything continued to run smoothly in Ben\u2019s absence. Joe had started working on the wharf timber contract, having hired an old friend of Ben\u2019s to act as Boss on site. Joe would ride up daily, but Frank Conroy was the day to day coordinator of the job. He would spend time at the breaking corral, working on the most difficult of the horses necessary for the Army contract. Joe also had to check on the cattle operation, making sure that all was going according to plan there as well. He would arrive home late almost every evening, but Merrie would be there to greet him with a smile on her face, a warm bath drawn and a hearty meal on the table.<\/p>\n

Late one afternoon, Merrie was in the kitchen chopping vegetables for dinner when she heard a knock on the door. As she opened it, she saw a woman about her age standing before her. Holding her hand was a young girl, about one year of age.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this where I can find Joe Cartwright?\u201d the woman asked. Puzzled, Merrie nodded her head. \u201cYes, Joe Cartwright lives here. I am his wife, Merrie. Can I help you with something?\u201d The woman\u2019s face hardened. \u201cWhen will he be back?\u201d she answered, ignoring Merrie\u2019s invitation. Not particularly pleased with the rudeness being shown her, Merrie replied in a clipped tone, \u201cHe will not be back until the morning. Again I\u2019ll ask you \u2013 what is your business with my husband?\u201d Turning and beginning to walk away, Merrie heard the woman as she said, \u201cI\u2019ll be back tomorrow.\u201d Merrie closed the door behind her, totally perplexed about the scene that just played out before her. Who was this woman and what could she want with Joe? Shrugging her shoulders, she took herself back into the kitchen, thinking that she\u2019d ask Joe what he knew when he returned later.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have no idea who she could be Merrie.\u201d Joe looked at Merrie with the same puzzled expression she had hours before. \u201cAnd she wouldn\u2019t tell you what she wanted?\u201d \u201cNope, not one word \u2013 in fact, she was a rather rude sort.\u201d Merrie told him. Putting down his wine glass, Joe mused, \u201cWell, I guess we\u2019ll have to wait until tomorrow to see what she wants. Now let\u2019s forget all about this and enjoy our evening.\u201d He got up from the table and took his wife to the couch in front of the fireplace. There, the two of them spent the rest of the evening in each other\u2019s arms, both of them showing each other the love they both had for each other. As the sun rose, Merrie kissed her husband on the forehead as she escaped his romantic embrace and went upstairs to get ready to start her day, secure in the love that she and her husband shared.<\/p>\n

Joe awoke from the couch to find Merrie putting a big breakfast on the table. \u201cI\u2019m sure you must have a big appetite, my cowboy\u201d she said as she poured him a cup of coffee. Rubbing his eyes, Joe nodded sleepily. Running his fingers through his hair, he got up and walked slowly to the table, plopping down in his chair. Merrie laughed as she watched him start his morning in slow motion. \u201cMaybe we should\u2019ve refrained from the extracurricular activities.\u201d Joe looked at her, trying to brighten his face as he said groggily, \u201cNo, no, no. I\u2019m fine, Merrie. A sip of this coffee is all I need to get started.\u201d<\/p>\n

After washing up and getting ready for the day before him, Joe bounded down the stairs two at a time. \u201cFeel like a new man!\u201d he gushed as he put on his gunbelt and hat. Merrie went to give him a hug as they heard a knock on their door. They looked at each other as Merrie told Joe, \u201cI think you should answer it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe opened the front door and saw the woman and the small child standing before him. \u201cAre you Joe Cartwright?\u201d the woman asked angrily. \u201cYes, I am. How can I help you?\u201d Joe replied. \u201cLet me be blunt, Cartwright. See this young\u2019un here? She\u2019s your daughter.\u201d Joe took a step back and looked at Merrie, whose face paled as she held on to the edge of the couch in back of her. Joe swallowed hard and regained his composure. \u201cMy child? I\u2019m sorry, ma\u2019m, but I think you are mistaken. I have been married for quite a few months now, and before that I was back east. I don\u2019t see how\u2026\u201d \u201cYou wouldn\u2019t remember anything about the time we spent together \u2013 you were drunk and out of control in Placerville one night, talking about how miserable your life was.\u201d She spat. The woman continued her rant. \u201cI don\u2019t remember just how many bottles of whiskey you drank, but you were quite eager to spend some time with me, and I was more than willing to oblige. Just didn\u2019t count on you leaving me a memento.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head was spinning. Life before New York and Merrie was a blur, but could something like this really have happened? How could he not remember? Then again, there were a lot of things he didn\u2019t remember about the time after Hoss\u2019s death. He turned and looked at Merrie again. Her face was one of utter loss and devastation. Turning to the woman, he asked her, \u201cHow can you be so sure that she is mine? After all, you entertain many gentlemen in the course of your job.\u201d \u201cWell, if you want proof, Mr. Cartwright, let\u2019s think of the timeline.\u201d The woman began. \u201cIf you and I had been together before you left for New York, about how long that would have been now? And take a look at my daughter -don\u2019t you see the slightest resemblance?\u201d Joe looked at the little girl, and as she looked up at him, he couldn\u2019t help but notice the blazing emerald eyes \u2013 eyes that could\u2019ve been his. The woman looked at both Joe and Merrie as she said, \u201cI\u2019m just looking for you to help support your daughter, Mr. Cartwright. I don\u2019t think that\u2019s too much to ask. I\u2019ll be in Virginia City if you want to work something out.\u201d With that, she turned and headed to the door, her dress fluttering behind her.<\/p>\n

Joe closed the door softly and turned to Merrie. She said nothing as tears started streaming down her face. Joe ran to her, taking her into his arms as he said soothingly, \u201cMerrie, darling, please don\u2019t cry. It\u2019s going to be all right, I promise.\u201d Merrie looked up at him and asked, \u201cHow can you be sure, Joe? How? You told me about that time in your life, after Hoss died. You can\u2019t be 100% sure.\u201d \u201cJoe shook his head. \u201cMerrie, I\u2019m telling you, if I did spend time with that woman, no matter what state I was in, I was careful. You gotta believe me.\u201d Merrie nodded as she said, \u201cJoe, I do believe what you\u2019re saying. But, accidents do happen \u2013 we have to realize that and prepare ourselves for the possible consequences.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face darkened. \u201cYou don\u2019t believe me!\u201d he bellowed. Merrie was taken aback at the tone Joe had taken, as he had never spoken to her like that before. \u201cI-I didn\u2019t say that, Joe!\u201d she stammered. Joe\u2019s emotions over the situation and the possibilities put before him, along with his long hours, gave him a short and irrational fuse. \u201cYes, you did. You are expecting to hear me say that little girl is mine \u2013 and she\u2019s not!\u201d \u201cJoe, I didn\u2019t say that, Joe, I love you\u2026\u201d Joe didn\u2019t hear the last three words as he had already left the house and slammed the door behind him. By the time Merrie got to the door, Joe was flying out of the yard on Cochise.<\/p>\n

Merrie sat on the porch, head in her hands, wondering to herself how something like this could\u2019ve happened. And to make matters worse, Ben wasn\u2019t here to help. Getting up and wiping her face, Merrie went into the barn and got her horse saddled. Maybe I should send a wire to Ben and Adam, they should be arriving in St. Louis in a few days, she thought as she tightened the cinch. She mounted and started to head into town, thinking about if she should send the wire and what it should say.<\/p>\n

As she left the Ponderosa boundary, she heard the sound of a horse behind her. She smiled, thinking that it was Joe. But her smile was short lived as she saw the image of Frank Conroy instead.<\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Cartwright! Joe\u2019s been hurt!\u201d Conroy yelled as he approached. Merrie was aghast at the news. \u201cHow bad is he?\u201d she cried. \u201cI don\u2019t know m\u2019am. All I know is that one of the men saw him galloping all crazy like when all of a sudden, the horse tripped on a stone and Joe flew off. Went head first.\u201d Conroy continued. \u201cAre you OK to ride, m\u2019am? Maybe you should ride with me.\u201d Merrie nodded her head and joined Conroy. \u201cTake me to him \u2013 quickly, please!\u201d As Conroy started the horse, he put his hand into his back pocket, pulling out a handkerchief. In one move, he put it over Merrie\u2019s face. She struggled to break free, but eventually found herself succumbing to the darkness.<\/p>\n

Conroy rode back to the makeshift camp he had set up with some others in a boxed canyon north of the Ponderosa property line. When he arrived, he took Merrie off the horse and placed her on a makeshift cot. Picking up her hand, he pulled off her wedding band. Conroy then turned to the other men in the camp. \u201cJose, ride back to the Cartwright place. Go up to their bedroom and pack some of the Missus clothes here in a bag. But most importantly, leave this on the dresser.\u201d He then handed Jose the wedding band. He continued his instructions. \u201cGreg, you ride out, heading east. When you get a fair distance, send a wire back to Virginia City to Cartwright. Just two words: It\u2019s over.\u201d<\/p>\n

Conroy then addressed the entire group. \u201cNo one, I mean no one, can enter Virginia City from this point onward \u2013 it could jeopardize the entire operation. We leave tomorrow for San Francisco. We\u2019ll have to take the long route, so make sure you\u2019re ready to ride.\u201d He looked down at the lifeless form of Merrie and started to tie her legs. \u201cSorry, m\u2019am, but I\u2019ve heard you\u2019re a bit of a live wire. Can\u2019t take any chances in case you wake up while we\u2019re sleeping.\u201d He then proceeded to tie her hands in front of her as well.<\/p>\n

Having decided to confront the mysterious woman once more, Joe rode into Virginia City. He stopped at the Palace Hotel, but was unable to find either the woman or the child. As Joe walked back to Cochise, a rider came storming into Virginia City, stopping in front of him. \u201cMr. Cartwright! There\u2019s been an explosion at the timber camp \u2013 a big one!\u201d Joe looked at the man with intense concern. \u201cIs there anyone hurt? Did Conroy send you?\u201d The man replied, \u201cNo one has seen Conroy since yesterday afternoon. It\u2019s like he just disappeared. We need you there right away, sir.\u201d Joe nodded at the man as he quickly swing mounted atop Cochise and both sped away.
\nIt was well past midnight before Joe finally returned home. Soot covered and exhausted, it seemed like days had gone by since he had angrily departed the yard. On his way home, his mind raced through the days events, and he realized just how unfair he had treated Merrie that morning. After he put Cochise in the barn, he wearily headed into the house. \u201cMerrie! Merrie darlin\u2019!\u201d Joe called. He was surprised to hear nothing in return. He looked around the house and realized that the fire in the hearth had been out for a while, and very few lights were lit. Running upstairs to their bedroom, he opened the door to find the room empty. As he looked around, he saw Merrie\u2019s dresser askew. Running towards it, he saw that some of her belongings were gone. Scanning the dresser, Joe\u2019s eyes halted as he saw a small object. His heart sank as he took in the implications of finding Merrie\u2019s wedding band sitting abandoned.<\/p>\n

Conroy and his entourage had started their journey to San Francisco. Merrie had awoken from her drug induced state long enough to be fed, but was then injected with another drug to keep her unconscious for the trip. Conroy was careful, using a covered wagon to transport Merrie to their new destination. He would let the drug wear off just long enough to make sure that his hostage was taken care of, but for no longer. Merrie couldn\u2019t shake off the grogginess she experienced as she felt other people feed her and help tend to her needs. She couldn\u2019t concentrate enough to realize just what was happening around her.<\/p>\n

Back on the Ponderosa, things were going from bad to worse. As much as he tried, Joe could not concentrate on the problems that had started to plague the ranch. He had fallen behind on fulfilling the timber contract, as well as the horse contract with the Army. He would disappear for large gaps of time and when he returned, he was in no shape to handle the situations before him. Long time hands of the Ponderosa were seriously concerned about the well being of their young boss. Finally, in the bunkhouse one evening, Dan Tolliver spoke up. \u201cFellas, most of us here have known the Cartwrights for a mighty long time. They have always been good to us, even when times were bad. I think we all see just how Little Joe is suffering right now \u2013 and I think it has somethin\u2019 to do with Miss Merrie. I was thinkin\u2019 that maybe we should send a wire to Mr. Cartwright and let him know what\u2019s goin\u2019 on.\u201d The other hands nodded in agreement. Tolliver then continued. \u201cOK then, I\u2019ll head into Virginia City first thing in the mornin\u2019 and take care of it. In the meantime, let\u2019s do our best not to let the Ponderosa interests fall apart.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam and Ben had just arrived in Kansas City when the telegram arrived. Taking it out of the envelope, Adam paled as he read the words:<\/p>\n

TO: BEN CARTWRIGHT AND ADAM CARTWRIGHT\u2013 KANSAS CITY MISSOURI
\nFROM: DAN TOLLIVER \u2013 VIRGINIA CITY NEVADA<\/p>\n

THINGS AT PONDEROSA IN CRISIS \u2013 STOP
\nCONTRACTS HAVE FALLEN BEHIND \u2013 STOP
\nJOE NOT IN CONTROL OF SITUATION \u2013 STOP
\nSHOULD COME BACK AS SOON AS POSSIBLE<\/p>\n

DAN TOLLIVER
\nAdam handed the message to Ben, who sat down incredulously as he read the note. \u201cWhat on Earth could\u2019ve happened?\u201d Ben scratched his head and pondered what he had just read. \u201cHow could Joe lose control of the ranch? Maybe he\u2019s hurt\u2026\u201d Adam looked worriedly at Ben and told him, \u201cPa, if he was hurt, Dan would\u2019ve said it. It must be something else, but I can\u2019t imagine what.\u201d Ben stood up abruptly and started to walk to the ticket window. \u201cAdam, I have to get back there as soon as possible. I\u2019m sure you understand the brevity of the situation…\u201d Adam interrupted his father, adding, \u201cMake that two tickets, Pa. New York can be without me a little while longer. I think my brother needs me more.\u201d Ben smiled and grabbed Adam into a quick embrace as the two of them set off for their return trip to Nevada.<\/p>\n

Back in Virginia City, Joe had spiraled out of control. He spent most of his time in the Bucket of Blood, alcohol coursing his veins most of his waking hours. A few days before, he had received a telegram that had only two words \u2013 but to him they spoke volumes:<\/p>\n

TO JOSEPH CARTWRIGHT \u2013 VIRGINIA CITY NEVADA
\nFROM \u2013 MRS. CARTWRIGHT \u2013 ST. LOUIS MISSOURI<\/p>\n

IT\u2019S OVER.<\/p>\n

He spoke to no one as he sat in the back of the saloon, drinking to forget Merrie and the times they had shared. In the course of his descent, he had not forgotten about the reason for his wife\u2019s abrupt departure. He had visited the Palace Hotel many times only to be told that there was no one there who fit that description. But his mind was unable to process that piece of information properly as he continued to pour himself drink after drink, numbing himself from the world around him. As far as he was concerned, without his partner, his life was worth nothing. And nothing would stop him from destroying himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To Ben and Adam, it seemed like an eternity before they reached Virginia City. As they disembarked the stage, they saw many of their friends sadly look towards them. Ben\u2019s heart raced as he thought that the worst had befallen his youngest son. A hand grabbed Ben\u2019s shoulder. \u201cBen, I think we need to go to my office and have a quick talk.\u201d Ben turned to Roy Coffee and with a choked voice, asked. \u201cIs he still alive, Roy?\u201d Tears began to fill his eyes. Roy looked at his old friend as he told him, \u201cIn body, yes, but in spirit, I think he\u2019s as bad as I\u2019ve ever seen him.\u201d<\/p>\n

In his office, Roy brought Adam and Ben up to date on Joe\u2019s behavior. Adam pinched his nose, squinting as he murmured, \u201cIt all just doesn\u2019t add up. What could\u2019ve happened to make Merrie leave and Joe to self-destruct? Joe is a strong man, I don\u2019t understand it.\u201d Ben turned to Adam and hastily replied, \u201cAt this point, we can\u2019t concern ourselves with that, Adam. Right now I think we need to get back to the Ponderosa, assess the contract situations, and most importantly, find your brother.\u201d The two Cartwrights took themselves to the livery and started the trek back home.<\/p>\n

First, they stopped at Joe and Merrie\u2019s home. They walked in to find the house in total disarray. Broken glass was everywhere, and pieces of Joe\u2019s clothing were strewn about. Adam went upstairs, only to find Joe and Merrie\u2019s bedroom virtually untouched. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw something glitter on Joe\u2019s nightstand. He went over and put Merrie\u2019s wedding band in his hand. Adam felt a lump in his throat as he put the ring in his pocket and headed back downstairs.<\/p>\n

The wagon train had finally reached San Francisco. Conroy and his men were ecstatic to be in a big city after the days of isolated travel. In the cloak of darkness, they took Merrie into an abandoned warehouse. Inside, one of the rooms had been transformed into a fancy bedroom, complete with its own water closet. The men laid Merrie in the bed and locked the door behind them. They then left to celebrate the completion of a job well done.<\/p>\n

Merrie\u2019s head pounded as she started to revive from her prolonged unconsciousness. As she tried to move, she found every bone in her body ached. Her mind raced as she tried to figure out just where she was and what had happened to her. The last memory she had was finding out that Joe had fallen from his horse, and she had jumped onto Frank Conroy\u2019s horse to ride out with him\u2026..and then nothing. The ache in her head grew as she tried to concentrate, and she found herself falling back into a dark void.<\/p>\n

Exhausted, Ben and Adam finally reached the Ponderosa. After leaving Joe and Merrie\u2019s house, they combed every nook and cranny of Ponderosa land in hopes of finding Joe. Adam had searched his brain trying to think of all of the hiding places Joe had for himself throughout his childhood. Time after time, they came up empty in their search. Adam was putting the horses in their stalls when he heard a muffled cry. Adam suddenly realized that he had forgotten the place where he had found Joe more times than he could count. He ran up the barn ladder and in a corner, saw the silhouette of his brother. With a sigh of relief, he ran towards the shadow before him.<\/p>\n

Adam stopped abruptly as he heard the click of a gun. A monotone voice came from the darkness. \u201cStop right there.\u201d Adam squinted and saw his brother\u2019s face. It was covered with dirt and a beard that told him just how long it had been since Joe had taken care of himself. The smell of stale whiskey wafted about the loft as empty bottles were spread atop the hay. Joe tried to look at the person before him, but found his eyes not able to focus. \u201cWho are you? Why are you here?\u201d he slurred. Adam knelt down and looking Joe straight in the face, answered calmly, \u201cJoe, it\u2019s me, Adam. Pa and I have come home to help you.\u201d Joe\u2019s face lit up like a small child. His voice went up an octave as he cried, \u201cIs it really you, Adam? You\u2019re back from college? What did you learn there? Gee, I\u2019ve missed you so much!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam realized that Joe was not in his right mind. He needed to get that gun out of his hand as soon as he could. He spoke to Joe as he did many years before. \u201cI missed you too, little buddy. I have a lot to tell you, but how about we climb down from here and go inside?\u201d Joe\u2019s face darkened. His demeanor now was of a man full of anger and sorrow. \u201cSorry, I can\u2019t do that. I have ruined everything, and I deserve to be punished. And I know just how I can do that.\u201d He took the gun and pointed it to his temple, tears streaming down his face. Adam told Joe, \u201cJoe, listen to me. You can\u2019t do that to yourself. Something terrible has happened here, and I need to know what it is so Pa and I can help you. So give me the gun so I can begin to help you. Please Joe, for Pa, me and Merrie, please give me the gun.\u201d At the very mention of her name, Joe started to crumble. He dropped the gun in front of him and started to sob uncontrollably. Adam ran to his brother and took him into his arms, rocking him as he tried to calm him down.<\/p>\n

Wondering what had kept Adam, Ben started for the barn. As he entered, he heard the sobbing from the loft above. Ben raced up the stairs and found Adam holding Joe in his arms. Ben was shocked at Joe\u2019s condition. His face, though covered with a beard, was gaunt and gray. His emerald eyes were sunken in and lifeless. Gazing in disbelief at his son\u2019s emaciated body, Ben wondered when Joe had eaten last. He then looked down and saw Joe\u2019s gun lying at Adam\u2019s feet. Picking it up, Ben put it in his waistband. He felt his eyes start to fill as he approached his two sons. He knelt by Joe and cupping his bristly face in his hand, he told him softly, \u201cSon, it\u2019s going to be all right. We\u2019re all together now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Doc Martin made his usual trip down the stairs into the living room. Ben and Adam ran towards him, looking at his serious countenance with concern. \u201cBen, I know I\u2019ve said this many times, but he is in bad shape. Very bad shape. He has consumed massive quantities of alcohol over these past few weeks, and it\u2019s going to take some time for him to withdraw from it. He is going to need round the clock care as he goes through this.\u201d Adam and Ben looked at each other as the doctor continued. \u201cThe symptoms will most likely begin with nausea, headache, shakes, sweats, and a high level of anxiety. He will try anything to get more alcohol into his system. It will be very difficult for him to think clearly. At a certain point, he will look to consume more alcohol. He may become violent in his quest to do so, so I am going to leave these leather restraints here. I know you wouldn\u2019t want to use them, but you may have no choice.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2018s face paled at the thought of what his youngest son had yet to endure. He was still at a loss as to why everything had unraveled the way it did. Sitting in his blue chair, Adam tried to compose himself for Ben\u2019s sake, although he was having a difficult time doing so. He tried to logically put together all that had transpired in he and Ben\u2019s absence, but none of it made any sense. As he headed up to see his brother, he resigned himself to the fact that they\u2019d have to wait for Joe to find out the real story.<\/p>\n

Adam took the first shift at Joe\u2019s bedside. As he walked around the room, Adam took notice of a piece of paper on the floor next to Joe\u2019s dirty green jacket. Picking it up, he read the text of the telegram sent by Merrie. Puzzled, he sat down in a chair and started to take a close look. Why would Merrie call herself Mrs. Cartwright if she was leaving Joe, he wondered. Adam abandoned his thoughts as Joe suddenly bolted upright in his bed, a panicked look on his face.<\/p>\n

That episode was the beginning of the longest 36 hours in Ben and Adam\u2019s life. Joe developed all of the symptoms Doc had mentioned. Father and son held his frail body as Joe shook uncontrollably, screaming in fear as he fought the many demons inside his head. Sweat poured off of him as he thrashed about his bed, mumbling incoherently.
\nSunrise left the two Cartwrights exhausted as Joe finally succumbed to a somewhat peaceful sleep.<\/p>\n

Sitting at Ben\u2019s desk, Adam was quickly going through some paperwork before Joe awoke. He had convinced Ben to take a rest, since neither man knew what the new day would bring. Adam\u2019s face darkened as he realized that the ranch operations were in crisis, and as a result, the Ponderosa could potentially be in danger. Walking to the bunkhouse, Adam found Dan Tolliver to discuss the most recent events on the ranch.
\n\u201cWe\u2019ve been trying our best, Adam, but the timber contract has fallen way behind.\u201d Tolliver told Adam. \u201cConroy just disappeared, and the paperwork seemed to go with him. Funny that happened about the same time Joe and Mrs. Cartwright split up.\u201d Adam listened to Tolliver\u2019s words with interest. Always the skeptic, Adam didn\u2019t believe that Conroy\u2019s departure was mere coincidence. \u201cDan, did anyone see Conroy anywhere during that time? Can you remember if anyone said anything about him?\u201d Tolliver scratched his head as he thought back. \u201cYou know what, Adam, someone did mention possibly seeing him heading out by Rim Rock Canyon. Didn\u2019t think much of it at the time \u2018cause I figured he was at the timber camp.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam pinched the bridge of his nose as he tried to figure out how all of this information fit together. Standing to leave, he told Tolliver, \u201cDan, I have revised plans for you and the men. If they can get things done according to this schedule, you can tell them there will be a generous bonus coming their way.\u201d Tolliver replied, \u201cAdam, the men don\u2019t need a bonus to get this work done. Your Pa has always taken care of us, and this is the least we can do to repay all of you for your kindness.\u201d Adam extended his hand to Tolliver. \u201cThanks, Dan, and please thank the men for us. Their loyalty means a lot.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam headed back to the house only to hear Joe\u2019s voice coming from upstairs. He ran up the stairs to find Ben putting the final strap on Joe\u2019s leg. Joe was furious. \u201cPa! How can you do this to me \u2013 your own son? I wasn\u2019t going anywhere! I have such a pounding headache, all I wanted was something to get rid of it.\u201d He screamed. \u201cWhy did you have to find me? Why didn\u2019t you just let me die!\u201d Ben\u2019s face was flushed as he turned to Adam. \u201cI had no choice, son. I found him on his way to the wine cellar. I was able to get him back up here before he became agitated.\u201d Adam nodded his head in agreement. \u201cPa, remember that he isn\u2019t in his right mind. We have to do what\u2019s best for him, even though our hearts might be telling us not to. We have to protect him from himself right now, no matter what.\u201d Joe continued pulling at the restraints, causing his wrists to bleed. \u201cI\u2019ll kill myself, I swear to God I will!\u201d Sweating profusely, Joe\u2019s energy started to fade. He mumbled, \u201cI hate both of you, I hate you, I hate myself\u2026\u201d before he gave in to his exhaustion. Both Ben and Adam sighed deeply, their eyes filled with tears as they thought of just how much Joe was suffering, both physically and emotionally.<\/p>\n

When Doc Martin arrived that evening, both men told him about the past 48 hours. \u201cI\u2019m relieved that the symptoms weren\u2019t any worse than that. Hopefully, the next time he awakens, he will be a calmer man. But you can\u2019t dismiss the fact that he may still try to find a drink. Ben, I think it best that you remove all of it from the premises \u2013 to play it safe.\u201d Ben, as always, took his friend\u2019s advice. \u201cThat\u2019s easy, Doc. But my biggest concern is all the talk about killing himself.\u201d Doc tried to reassure Ben by telling him \u201cI\u2019m sure he will be depressed once he awakens. The thought of suicide may still linger. The important thing is for you to find out what happened with Merrie that caused this whole situation. Hopefully, then you can help him to understand why life is still worth living despite what went on. I\u2019m not saying it will be easy but\u2026.\u201d Adam interrupted the Doc\u2019s thought, saying, \u201cWe\u2019re his family and we\u2019ll get him through this. I refuse to let my brother slip away.\u201d<\/p>\n

Back in San Francisco, Merrie had rebounded from the aftereffects of the drugs she had been given during the trip west. She had no sense of time except for when food was left in a little foyer before her front door. She saw and spoke to no one. To keep her sanity, she decided to talk out loud just to hear a voice. Still, she found herself frustrated, angry and scared. Her biggest fear was not knowing whether Joe was dead or alive. The thought of their last words to each other would bring Merrie to tears as she believed that to be her last moment with her husband.<\/p>\n

As the days went by endlessly, Merrie found her appetite waning. The smell of the food left for her would make her nauseous. She would find herself running to the water closet frequently to be sick. As she lay in her bed one evening, she began to think back to her last days of happiness on the Ponderosa with Joe \u2013 especially their last night together. Putting all of the pieces together, Merrie realized that she was in fact, pregnant with Joe\u2019s child. Tears came to her eyes, but she didn\u2019t know if they were from happiness or sadness.<\/p>\n

Joe had slept for close to 24 hours before he awoke again. He opened his eyes slowly, his head still pounding inside. Looking for a familiar face, he turned to see his father\u2019s brown eyes staring at him with concern. \u201cPa, when did you get back?\u201d croaked Joe, his throat raspy. He tried to get up, but found himself still strapped to the bed with the restraints. \u201cWhy am I like this – Pa, please untie me.\u201d The words came softly and quietly. Ben told him, \u201cSon, you\u2019ve been very sick. We had to do this to protect you from yourself. If you promise me you\u2019ll stay in bed, I will untie them.\u2019 Joe nodded as he tried to remember just what had happened to him. The bedroom door opened, and Joe\u2019s eyes lit up as he saw his older brother. \u201cAdam, what are you doing back here? Can the two of you please tell me what\u2019s going on?\u201d Joe pleaded.<\/p>\n

Ben looked to Adam to explain. \u201cWell, little brother, we received a telegram from Dan Tolliver when we reached Kansas City telling us that there were some problems on the Ponderosa. When we got back, no one knew where you were. But they did mention that you had been drinking pretty heavily these past few weeks and that something had happened between you and Merrie, and that she had left town. I found you up in the loft a few days ago, a bit irrational to say the least. Anyway, you\u2019ve been here for about 5 days, suffering from a serious case of alcohol withdrawal. I\u2019m glad you\u2019re back, kid.\u201d Adam squeezed Joe\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face had tightened as Adam told his story, as he started to remember all that had driven him to where he now lay. Ben saw the pained look on his son. \u201cJoe, can you tell us what happened? You\u2019ll feel better if you let it out.\u201d Joe glanced up at them and sighed. His eyes filled with tears as he started to speak. \u201cEverything was fine, Pa. Really it was. Things were going smooth, until one night at dinner, Merrie told me about a woman who needed to speak to me. She came back the next morning and accused me of fathering her child.\u201d Ben and Adam both looked at each other. Joe saw this, and continued. \u201cI know I was out of control after Hoss died Pa, but I have no memory of this woman at all. None. And if I had been with anyone, you had always taught me to take precautions.\u201d He took a pause and then added, \u201cFunny thing was, the woman never told me her name, but told me she\u2019d be in town if I wanted to make things right. I went to the International House a few times and they told me no one with her or the girl\u2019s description was ever there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did Merrie say about this?\u201d Adam wondered aloud. Joe replied, \u201cShe was a bit surprised, and she was rational about it; in fact, more rational than me at the time. I flew off the handle and took my frustration out on her \u2013 usual me, acting before I thought. She was so calm and understanding, that\u2019s why I was shocked when I came home that night to find her gone.\u201d Adam took the telegram out of his pocket. \u201cAnd when did you get this?\u201d he asked. Staring at the telegram, Joe told him, \u201cAbout two weeks after she left.\u201d Adam showed him the paper. \u201cDoes anything on this strike you as unusual?\u201d Joe took the paper and read it again. \u201cI guess, well, why didn\u2019t she use her name \u2013 why Mrs. Cartwright if she wasn\u2019t coming back to me?\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes started to brighten slightly. \u201cBrother, what are you thinking?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam sat next to Joe and tried to put the pieces together out loud. \u201cOK. This is what we know. This woman comes along with a child looking for you to support her \u2013 you go to make things right and it\u2019s like she never even existed. Merrie didn\u2019t seem overly upset about the situation \u2013 yet she\u2019s gone. Around the same time, Frank Conroy disappeared from the lumber site and never returned. And you receive a telegram from your wife telling you it\u2019s over, yet she signs it using her married name.\u201d Joe leaned forward, pulling his hand through his hair. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t add up, Adam. Something\u2019s wrong.\u201d \u201cI agree Joe.\u201d Adam said. But now we have to figure out who and why.\u201d<\/p>\n

Conroy started to get concerned when the trays of food he provided to his prisoner were returned untouched. He thought it about time to make an appearance. Entering the room as she slept, he sat on the bed next to her and stroked her hair lightly. \u201cJoe?\u201d she whispered as she opened her eyes. Shocked at the sight of Conroy, she sat up and slinked away from his touch. \u201cHowdy, Mrs. Cartwright. Sorry to wake you, but I was getting a bit worried that you hadn\u2019t been eating your food lately.\u201d Merrie looked at him angrily. \u201cJust not hungry, I guess. No fresh air in weeks can do that to a person.\u201d Conroy looked at the tiny, yet strong woman in front of him. \u201cI\u2019m sorry about that m\u2019am, but my boss said those be the rules. I\u2019ve tried to make this as comfortable for you as I possibly could.\u201d He said apologetically. Seizing on his guilt, Merrie spoke quietly. \u201cMr. Conroy, I think I would be able to eat something from perhaps, the local restaurant in town \u2013 maybe chicken and dumplings, apple pie, a big glass of milk \u2013 do you think I\u2019d be able to get fixin\u2019s like that?\u201d Conroy felt for the young woman. \u201cI think that I may be able to do something like that. I\u2019m not promising anything, but let me see.\u201d As he left the room, Merrie said \u201cThank you\u201d and tried to go back to sleep. Seeing that Conroy was involved in this situation gave Merrie hope. Her heart was racing as she started to believe that Joe could still be alive.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you aren\u2019t going anywhere and that\u2019s final!\u201d Ben shouted. \u201cBut Pa, I have to go with Adam to Rim Rock Canyon. I need to help him look for clues!\u201d Joe became animated as he continued. \u201cI\u2019m fine, Pa. Really, I am.\u201d Ben remained steadfast. \u201cJoseph, do you realize just how ill you were? How close we came to losing you? You haven\u2019t even eaten solid food for more than 24 hours. I\u2019m sorry, but this trip does not include you.\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes grew angry. \u201cFine\u201d he sulked, laying back down in his bed and pulling up the covers. Ben understood how much his son would want to go, but also realized that it was too soon for him to be back out on his own.<\/p>\n

Slowly riding into the canyon, Adam began to look for clues. In the distance, he saw the remnants of a campsite. Adam scoured the area looking for anything that would advance his theories. He was about to give up when he saw a small leather bag in the brush. Grabbing the bag, Adam sat down to investigate its contents. To his surprise, he found a myriad of papers that proved to be of major interest. Not taking the time to read them, he shoved them back into the bag, hopped on Sport and sped back to the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

Meantime, Joe\u2019s mood had darkened considerably. Not having been able to join Adam gave him the opportunity to think about all that had gone wrong in the past weeks. Guilt consumed Joe as he remembered his last words to Merrie that terrible morning. Joe found himself craving what had almost killed him, needing it to dull the horrible images that constantly pervaded his thoughts. He left his room quietly, hoping to find the solutions to his problems in a bottle. He tiptoed down the stairs and seeing no one in the living room, continued into the kitchen. Once there, he started to open every cabinet, searching for the one thing that would ease his pain. Joe became frustrated as his quest proved fruitless. Pounding the table in frustration, he looked up and found Adam standing in the doorway, waving a bottle of whiskey in his hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooking for something like this?\u201d he shouted. Joe walked towards Adam, telling him, \u201cJust one sip, Adam. I just need one.\u201d Shaking his head no, Adam said, \u201cJoe, don\u2019t you realize that one sip would turn into many more? What are you running from? Don\u2019t you realize that this whole situation was an elaborate set-up? I would bet you anything that Merrie didn\u2019t leave you \u2013 in fact, I think that she was taken from you.\u201d He continued. \u201cYou\u2019re a stronger man than this, Joe. Pull yourself together not only for yourself, but for Merrie. Lord knows what condition she may be in. She needs the man she married, Joe, not a shell of him.\u201d Adam\u2019s words hit Joe like a thunderbolt, snapping him back into reality. A flood of emotion overtook him as he threw himself at Adam, sobbing uncontrollably. \u201cYou\u2019re right, Adam. I know Merrie is out there, I can feel her. I have to find her, Adam.\u201d Adam took his brother by the shoulder and started to lead him back upstairs. As he helped him back into bed, Adam\u2019s eyes met Joe\u2019s as he told him, \u201cJoe, I will do everything in my power to bring her back to you. I promise you that.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sat at his desk, eagerly going through the saddlebag that Adam brought back from Rim Rock. His eyes darted as he read through the papers before him. Bringing in two cups of coffee, Adam pulled up a chair and placed a cup before Ben. \u201cWhat do we have?\u201d he asked pensively. Ben handed Adam one particular piece of paper. \u201cWell, all of Joe\u2019s instructions for the wharf timber project are right here\u201d Ben began. \u201cAnd the piece I just handed you may answer who concocted this elaborate scheme and why.\u201d Adam read the paper, his face beginning to flush with anger. \u201cDamn it! Why didn\u2019t I think of Povey in the first place?\u201d he spat. \u201cGuess I never thought that he would be able to exert so much power while in jail.\u201d Seeing his son\u2019s dismay, Ben patted him on the back to console him. \u201cAdam, there are many people who would want to see the Ponderosa destroyed, you know that. And with all of our recent successes, that list has gotten even longer. Don\u2019t blame yourself for anything. I am happy that you were here to put together the pieces \u2013 we never would\u2019ve gotten this far without you.\u201d Adam gave Ben a half smile, not entirely convinced by his father\u2019s words. \u201cWell, the job\u2019s not over yet, Pa. Now the hard part comes. Trying to figure out just where Povey and his men have taken Merrie.\u201d<\/p>\n

Early the next morning, Joe was seated at the breakfast table, enjoying his second plate of pancakes. Ben and Adam descended the stairs and were shocked to see the thin frame at the table before them. \u201cOK Joe, what\u2019s this all about?\u201d asked Adam, knowing full well what Joe\u2019s presence meant. \u201cHave to get my strength back if I\u2019m going to find my wife now, don\u2019t I?\u201d replied Joe as he shoved another forkful in his mouth. Ben looked cautiously at his youngest, still thinking that he was too weak to join the search; yet, he knew deep down that he would be unable to stop Joe if he persisted. \u201cJoseph, do you really think that\u2026.\u201d Joe interrupted, telling both Adam and Ben, \u201cListen you two, I can\u2019t stay here while my wife is out there, perhaps injured, perhaps\u2026..gone. I need to go. Pa, I promise that I won\u2019t overtax myself, and I\u2019ll have big brother here to make sure. Right Adam?\u201d Joe gave Adam that sad, puppydog look that always seemed to get him his way. Adam glanced at his brother and knowing it would be a losing argument to disagree, sighed as he told Joe, \u201cFine Joe, we\u2019ll go together. But if I think you can\u2019t continue\u2026\u201d \u201cI know Adam, I know\u201d Joe interjected. \u201cLet\u2019s stop the chit-chat and get going.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two brothers started their search at Rim Rock. Both men looked to the ground, seeing if there were any clues. Joe yelled to Adam, \u201cLook at the wheel marks here! I think they may\u2019ve taken a wagon instead of horses.\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cMakes sense that they would. How would they get Merrie out of here the fastest \u2013 a wagon makes sense.\u201d As he walked around the campsite, Adam saw a sparkle on the ground. Running towards it, he picked up a used needle. He sniffed it to see if he could recognize what the contents had been. Joe ran over to Adam and looked at the syringe. His eyes starting to darken with anger, Joe said, \u201cDo you think they used this on Merrie?\u201d Adam nodded sadly as his brother\u2019s face reddened. \u201cJoe, I don\u2019t think they would\u2019ve used this to kill her, I think it would\u2019ve been to keep her quiet during their journey. Povey wouldn\u2019t want a murder on his head \u2013 kidnapping would be quite enough.\u201d Joe calmed at Adam\u2019s words, and started to walk towards Cochise. \u201cWe have a long day ahead brother.\u201d he said. \u201cLet\u2019s see if we can follow these wagon tracks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Days went by as Adam and Joe were able to track Conroy\u2019s wagon. They stopped at a few forts along the way, with the men there able to describe Conroy to a tee. But no one had seen a woman with him. The only consolation to the brothers was that the soldiers at the forts found it interesting that the wagon was never left unattended. That led Adam and Joe to believe that there was something of importance in the wagon \u2013 Merrie.<\/p>\n

In San Francisco, Merrie continued to be held in her windowless chamber. She still felt terrible, but she wasn\u2019t sure if it was because of the pregnancy or the situation that had befallen her. Conroy had been kind enough to start providing her with meals from the local restaurant, and Merrie was able to keep some of that food down. Still, she found herself constantly feeling nauseous and spending most of her time in bed. She would never tell Conroy of her condition, afraid that he would use it against Joe when he found her. She knew he would, she could feel it in her heart.<\/p>\n

One evening, Conroy entered Merrie\u2019s quarters, obviously drunk. \u201cMrs. Cartwright, I\u2019m sorry that I have to do this, but I need that ring there of yours – lost a bundle in a poker game tonight and I need to pay back my debts. Figure this ring of yours here would do it.\u201d Merrie backed away as Conroy approached her. Her engagement ring was her last tangible reminder of Joe, and she didn\u2019t want to give it up. \u201cM\u2019am, either you give that ring to me nice and easy, or I\u2019ll have to take it off my way.\u201d Conroy slurred. Merrie shut her eyes and as she did, heard Joe\u2019s voice. \u201cDarlin\u2019, it\u2019s only a ring, please give it to him, don\u2019t get yourself hurt.\u201d Merrie opened her blue eyes and took her ring off, throwing it at Conroy. \u201cTake the goddamn ring!\u201d she shouted. Conroy was taken aback at her outburst. \u201cThat little tirade has just cost you your dinner.\u201d he spat, as he picked up the ring and headed out the door. Merrie threw herself on the bed and started to sob, starting to believe that she and her unborn child would never make it out of this situation alive.<\/p>\n

Joe and Adam were making progress. They found themselves heading west and started to think about possible places where Conroy could\u2019ve ended his journey. One afternoon they stopped at Fort Franklin on the California\/Nevada border. Upon speaking to the soldiers, they confirmed seeing Conroy and the wagon.<\/p>\n

As had become their practice, the brothers asked if anyone remembered a man fitting Conroy\u2019s description, and how long ago he might have passed through. However, this time the response was a little different. \u201cSir, that man had definite plans to go to San Francisco.\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes brightened. \u201cHow can you be so sure?\u201d he asked. The soldier told him, \u201cI remember because he told me about how nice the city was at this time of year. And that as soon as he got there, he would drop off his load and get paid handsomely for it.\u201d Adam and Joe looked at each other, both reading each other\u2019s mind. \u201cLet\u2019s ride!\u201d Joe called to Adam, as both men took their horses and raced out into the afternoon sun.<\/p>\n

It took them two days to reach San Francisco. Adam and Joe housed their horses in the livery and started towards the hotel. Their eyes darted from side to side, looking for any sign of Conroy or Merrie. Seeing nothing, they checked into the hotel and headed for their room. Adam fell to the bed, obviously tired from the hard ride they had just endured. Joe found himself anxious and nervous, constantly thinking about just how close he was to finding his wife. His heart pounded as he imagined how she might look after all these weeks \u2013 almost two months of being apart. Joe knew how different he looked. All his weeks of sorrow had left him gaunt and pale. In fact, he never had the opportunity to take off the beard that had grown during that time. He found himself looking at the mirror and thinking, \u201cwhat the hell happened to you, Joe Cartwright. You look about ten years older than you should. Wait until your wife gets a look at you.\u201d He chuckled to himself at the thought of Merrie\u2019s face when she saw him. Realizing that he was too restless to sleep, Joe quietly left the room and headed downstairs, ready to continue his search.<\/p>\n

Joe walked along the busy sidewalk, his head swiveling as he tried to take in every part of the street before him. He had walked for blocks on end when suddenly, he took notice of a piece of jewelry in a pawnshop window. Joe gasped as he ran in to see just how that sapphire and diamond ring he knew so well had arrived there. \u201cSir, a man sold it to me not two days ago.\u201d the shop owner cried. Joe loosened his grasp and put the man back on the floor. \u201cGive me a description and where he was from.\u201d Joe demanded. Obviously scared, the shop owner complied quickly. \u201cIt was a blonde haired man, about 50 or so I\u2019d reckon, and he had come in after falling behind in a card game over at the Golden Gate Hotel.\u201d He stammered. Joe threw a one hundred dollar bill on the table and told the owner, \u201cI\u2019ll take that ring now.\u201d The shop owner scurried to grab the ring out of the window and quickly handed it to Joe. Joe put it into his jacket pocket and started for the Golden Gate Hotel. His heart was beating out of his chest at the thought that these months from hell were finally coming to an end.<\/p>\n

Adam turned over and opened one eye, peeking at the other bed across from him. He was startled to find it empty. Sitting up abruptly, Adam looked around the room. \u201cJoe! Where are you?\u201d he called. Realizing that his brother was nowhere to be found, he started to panic as he began to think that perhaps Joe had taken himself to one of the many watering holes in the city. He took a deep breath to compose himself and think logically about why Joe would\u2019ve left, but his deep seated worries did not let him get far. Grabbing his hat and holster, Adam rushed out of the room, hoping that his fears were only in his mind.<\/p>\n

Joe paused before he entered the hotel lobby. He knew that he had to remain calm and keep his emotions in check if he was to find Merrie. Entering the hotel, Joe decided to take a seat in one of the lobby chairs and see if anything happened around him. People scurried back and forth, staff ran by with dishes and towels. Joe began to think that perhaps he was wasting his time and was about to confront the manager at the desk when he saw a waiter bring out a brown bag on a platter. \u201cHere\u2019s that food that Room 8\u2019s always requesting, Mr. Robinson. Chicken and dumplings and a slice of apple pie.\u201d Joe\u2019s curiosity was peaked at the idea of a hotel resident not eating food in the hotel \u2013 where would one go? He decided to wait a bit longer to see just who picked up that meal. He wasn\u2019t disappointed when he saw Conroy come to the desk and pick up the bag. Joe did all he could to restrain himself from attacking Conroy as he watched the blonde haired man walk out of the hotel. Joe began to follow Conroy from a distance as he realized that Merrie could not be far away.<\/p>\n

Conroy turned off the busy thoroughfare onto a deserted street lined with warehouses. Joe slinked behind, trying to avoid being seen. Watching from behind a stack of boxes, he saw Conroy look both ways before he entered a tall brown building. Joe hurried to the entrance and quietly entered after him.<\/p>\n

Joe stayed at the bottom of the stairwell and listened as Conroy trudged up the stairs. He heard keys jingle and the sound of a bolt being turned. The bile in Joe\u2019s throat rose as he heard Conroy ask in a sarcastic tone, \u201cAnd how are you feeling today, Mrs. Cartwright?\u201d Without any hesitation, Joe bounded the stairs two at time until he saw the open door before him. Slowly, he entered the small hall and saw Conroy placing the dinner in front of Merrie, who was sitting up in a bed. The adrenaline was pumping through Joe\u2019s body as he stepped into the room with his gun drawn. \u201cIt\u2019s over, Conroy. Step away from my wife and drop you gun \u2013 slow and easy.\u201d Conroy looked to Joe, shocked that his scheme had been detected. Merrie\u2019s face was one of confusion and relief. \u201cCome on Joe, you don\u2019t understand. This wasn\u2019t my idea, Povey put me up to it. We\u2019ve known each other a long time, what\u2019s say you let me disappear.\u201d \u201cLike I said Frank, drop the gun.\u201d Joe spat out the words, his temper beginning to flare. In a sudden act of desperation, Conroy went for his gun. Joe didn\u2019t think twice as he pulled out his gun and shot Conroy dead in a single motion. Before Conroy hit the ground, Joe ran to Merrie, pulling her into his arms. The two of them began to sob uncontrollably as they realized that their ordeal was finally over.<\/p>\n

Joe ran his fingers through Merrie\u2019s hair and touched her face delicately. \u201cI can\u2019t believe it\u2019s you! Are you alright? Why are you in this bed like this?\u201d Joe asked, his eyes brimming with tears. Merrie nodded her head and replied, \u201cI\u2019m fine, Joe. Just a bit tired, that\u2019s all. I should be asking you the same question \u2013 are you alright?\u201d Joe looked into Merrie\u2019s sparkling blue eyes and said quietly, \u201cI\u2019m alright now. I have the person I love more than life itself back with me. Merrie, I am so sorry about how I left that day, I \u2026.\u201d Merrie interrupted. \u201cJoe, it doesn\u2019t matter, not then, not now. All I know is that every day I prayed for you to come and find me. And that prayer has been answered.\u201d She leaned into his chest as she closed her eyes. \u201cBoy, you are tired!\u201d Joe said, peering down at Merrie with concern. Merrie opened her eyes and smiled. \u201cCan we please get out of here? I can\u2019t stand looking at these walls one minute longer.\u201d Puzzled at the change in conversation, Joe helped Merrie put on her shoes. Pulling her engagement ring out of his pocket, he put it back on Merrie\u2019s finger as he said, \u201cI will get you home as soon as I can, Mrs. Cartwright.\u201d Pulling Merrie up, he grabbed her close and began to kiss her passionately, months of pent-up desire spilling forth. Merrie responded in kind, her emotions raging as well. Both of them looked deep into each others eyes, as they realized that each had much to tell the other. But for now, it could wait, as they exited the room and the chamber of horrors that both of them were made to endure.<\/p>\n

The couple exited the warehouse and started back to the hotel. \u201cCan you make it?\u201d Joe asked Merrie, as she walked with a bit of trepidation. \u201cI\u2019ll be fine Joe, remember, it\u2019s been a while since I\u2019ve gone anywhere with these legs, just a little wobbly.\u201d Joe looked at Merrie in the sunlight and saw that she too had been through an ordeal of her own. Her skin had also lost its color and her clothes looked tight and a bit disheveled. She looked more tired than he ever could remember. As they continued their slow walk back to the hotel, a black clad cowboy ran towards them. Merrie turned to Joe. \u201cAdam?\u201d she asked. Joe smiled as he told her, \u201cHe and Pa came back when it all happened. Adam put most of the pieces together to find you.\u201d Adam finally reached them. Panting, he cried, \u201cMerrie! My God, it\u2019s you!\u201d and grabbed her into his arms. Merrie\u2019s tears started once again as she reveled in the happiness of her family.<\/p>\n

Joe and Adam brought Merrie up to their room. Adam left to speak to the Sheriff about what had transpired at the warehouse, as Joe tended to his wife. Joe helped Merrie out of her clothes and put her into a warm bath. Merrie\u2019s began to relax as Joe held her hand. She wouldn\u2019t let him out of her sight for a minute. When Merrie climbed out of the tub, Joe couldn\u2019t help but notice a slight bulge in her abdomen. Merrie saw Joe looking at her, and knew that it was time to tell her husband the good news. She put on one of Joe\u2019s nightshirts and with a small smile on her face, led him to the settee.<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s expression turned serious. \u201cMerrie, what\u2019s wrong? You\u2019re making me nervous here.\u201d Merrie smiled and spoke softly. \u201cNothing to be nervous about \u2013 but maybe I\u2019ll allow you to be a bit nervous in about 7 months.\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes widened as he took in Merrie\u2019s words. He swallowed hard. \u201cA baby? Are you telling me that we\u2019re having a baby?\u201d he cried. Tears streamed down Merrie\u2019s face as she nodded. \u201cHow? When?\u201d Joe was ecstatic. Merrie told him, \u201cFrom what I can figure, I think that our last night together made this miracle.\u201d Joe pulled Merrie into his arms and whispered, \u201cOh, how I love you, Merrie. How I missed you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam walked in to find his brother and sister in law holding each other as close as two people could be. This is what love is all about, he thought as he saw the couple whispering softly to each other and smiling. \u201cAdam! Come here, we\u2019ve got some news!\u201d Joe yelled, stirring Adam from his thoughts. \u201cI haven\u2019t seen that smile in months little brother, so I imagine this must be good.\u201d Adam looked at his sister-in-law who smiled. \u201cWell, if being an uncle in seven months is good news\u2026.\u201d Joe started to say, but was interrupted by a yell. \u201cHot Dog! An uncle! How about that!\u201d Adam picked Joe up and swung him around. He bent down to Merrie, who was the picture of serenity. \u201cAre you feeling alright? Do you need me to get the doctor?\u201d \u201cAdam, I\u2019m fine. A little queasy here and there, but otherwise, I think I\u2019ll be fine until I can see Doc Martin.\u201d She yawned as she looked at the two brothers, who were back slapping and reveling in the news.
\n\u201cJoe, honey, I think I\u2019m going to take a nap\u201d she said as she walked over to the bed and pulled down the covers. Joe ran towards her and helped her in, pulling up the blankets. \u201cCan I ask you for one thing?\u201d she asked Joe sleepily. \u201cAnything\u201d he said, his face again showing concern. \u201cWhen I wake up, could you please make sure that this thing covering your face is gone? I really don\u2019t like it.\u201d Both Joe and Adam laughed as Joe replied, \u201cDarlin\u2019, I promise you I will get rid of it as fast as my hand can shave.\u201d
\nSeven Months Later\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

Adam and Ben were pacing in Joe and Merrie\u2019s living room. It had seemed like an eternity ago since Doc Martin had called Joe upstairs. Both men kept looking upstairs in anticipation, only to find an empty staircase. Suddenly, they heard the sound of a door close, and footsteps slowly reaching the stairs. They turned to see Joe walking down, holding a blanket in his arms. He was grinning from ear to ear as he brought the bundle down to them.<\/p>\n

\u201cGrandpa, Uncle Adam, I\u2019d like to introduce you to the newest Cartwright, Allison Marie.\u201d Joe pulled back the blanket to reveal his new daughter. Her hair was dark and curly, and her eyes like blue sapphires. Adam and Ben\u2019s eyes both glistened as they took in their newest relative. \u201cWelcome, little one\u201d Adam\u2019s voice cracked as he took her little hand. \u201cWould you like to hold her?\u201d Joe asked as he placed Allison into his arms. Adam looked down at the precious bundle and smiled. Ben\u2019s voice interrupted his thoughts as he said, \u201cCan grandpa hold his granddaughter?\u201d Adam handed Allison over and watched Ben\u2019s face melt as he held the tiny infant. The three men were totally infatuated with Miss Allison Marie Cartwright.<\/p>\n

Life on the Ponderosa had returned to normal. Will Povey\u2019s scheme was revealed, and after being found guilty of kidnapping, had his jail term extended.
\nThanks to the hard work of many loyal Ponderosa hands along with Adam and Joe\u2019s supervision, Ben was able to meet the deadlines on all of their outstanding contracts.<\/p>\n

One afternoon, Adam found himself sitting on Joe\u2019s porch. Joe came to join him, handing him a cup of coffee. \u201cWell, big brother, I guess we\u2019ve kept you here longer than you had anticipated. When will you be heading back to New York?\u201d Joe asked as he took a sip. \u201cWell, Joe, I\u2019ve been meaning to talk to you and Pa about that. I guess it started back when you and I had that talk on the balcony in New York. Yes, maybe I was happy workwise, but I realize now that I need more than that. I need family, Joe. I need to be with you, Pa, Merrie and little Allie. When Pa and I got that telegram from Tolliver, I couldn\u2019t get back here fast enough to find you. I didn\u2019t think about what was going on back east \u2013 it didn\u2019t matter, you and Merrie mattered.\u201d Adam continued. \u201cI also want to find my own happiness \u2013 like what you and Merrie share. I need to find my soulmate, Joe, and I think one Cartwright was lucky enough to find his out east. I think mine might be here. I want to stay here, Joe. I think I can work something out where I can set up my business operations here in Virginia City. It will take some doing, but I want to give it a try. But I also want to help you and Pa. The Ponderosa operation is yours, Joe. But I want to help wherever you\u2019d need me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe was stunned. He never thought he\u2019d hear his older brother utter those words. That his family was important. Most important. Joe\u2019s face lit up as he turned to his brother and told him, \u201cAdam, Merrie and I would be thrilled beyond belief to know that you were coming home to stay.\u201d<\/p>\n

Over the course of time, Merrie and Joe had healed, physically as well as emotionally, from the terrible situations both had endured. They spoke openly to each other about what they had gone through and as a result, helped to repair their emotional wounds together. They found that their relationship had grown stronger than it was before.<\/p>\n

One evening, Joe and Merrie found themselves sitting in front of the fireplace, watching their daughter fidget in her cradle. Joe nuzzled Merrie as he whispered, \u201cI am the happiest man in the world, do you know that Merrie? I have you, my love, my partner in life, right here, and our little girl, God\u2019s creation from our love. I couldn\u2019t ask for anything more.\u201d Merrie turned to Joe and said, \u201cMy cowboy, neither could I\u201d as she gave him a long kiss that was the beginning of another beautiful evening to remember.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0 The success of the Ponderosa causes a long time enemy to seek its destruction, using whatever means possible.<\/p>\n

Rated K+\u00a0 (13,545 words)<\/p>\n

The Only Series, links to all the stories within the series included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":1050,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23],"tags":[16],"class_list":["post-2417","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2495,"today_views":1},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/MyFriendMyEnemy1.png?fit=486%2C296&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":6768,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6768","url_meta":{"origin":2417,"position":0},"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":18230,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=18230","url_meta":{"origin":2417,"position":1},"title":"Gusty Gumption (by PSW)","author":"PSW","date":"August 19, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: A little vignette following (at some point later) the events of 'A Dime's Worth of Glory'. Written for the Sept 1 Pinecone challenge and expanded for inclusion here. Prompt: Whisky for my men, beer for my horses (by Scott Emerich\/Toby Keith).\u00a0 Contains phrases from both the song and the\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Humor"","block_context":{"text":"Humor","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=4"},"img":{"alt_text":"newspaper","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A8B95BC9-E53D-40E8-BD21-6DC03B08C9BF.jpeg?fit=1178%2C1034&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A8B95BC9-E53D-40E8-BD21-6DC03B08C9BF.jpeg?fit=1178%2C1034&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A8B95BC9-E53D-40E8-BD21-6DC03B08C9BF.jpeg?fit=1178%2C1034&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A8B95BC9-E53D-40E8-BD21-6DC03B08C9BF.jpeg?fit=1178%2C1034&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A8B95BC9-E53D-40E8-BD21-6DC03B08C9BF.jpeg?fit=1178%2C1034&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":15678,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15678","url_meta":{"origin":2417,"position":2},"title":"Valentine Nightmares (by Hart4Ben)","author":"Hart4Ben","date":"February 14, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0A light-hearted look at the Cartwright men struggling with the upcoming Valentine's Day dance. Rating: K+\u00a0 Word Count: 667","rel":"","context":"In "Humor"","block_context":{"text":"Humor","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=4"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":13630,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13630","url_meta":{"origin":2417,"position":3},"title":"A Cry for Freedom (by JennieA)","author":"JennieA","date":"January 7, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 It started with Ben giving Little Joe more responsibility for the Ponderosa.\u00a0 Little did the family realize the course Ben was setting in motion. Rating:\u00a0 R\u00a0 (65,725 words) Due to subject matter contained in this series, the stories are only available via e:mail from the author -- ryjennie@comcast.net","rel":"","context":"In "Action\/Adventure"","block_context":{"text":"Action\/Adventure","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=2"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/4Cs.jpg?fit=400%2C401&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":13993,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13993","url_meta":{"origin":2417,"position":4},"title":"Sins of the Father (by Susan G)","author":"SusanG","date":"December 12, 2007","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Ben outbids a competitor to win a lucrative contract, setting the man's son on a course of vengeance. Rating:T\u00a0 (29,455 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\/ponderosapine.jpg?fit=270%2C404&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":5454,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5454","url_meta":{"origin":2417,"position":5},"title":"Autumn’s Surprise (by deansgirl)","author":"deansgirl","date":"October 30, 2012","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Autumn is setting around the Ponderosa and with it comes a very dear and long awaited surprise.\u00a0 \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (1,180 words) Autumn Series, links to all the stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Chaps and Spurs"","block_context":{"text":"Chaps and Spurs","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=39"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2417","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\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2417"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2417\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1050"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2417"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2417"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2417"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}