Summary: The Cartwright boys take a short trip across the desert, but they have an unwelcome visitor in camp.
\nRating: PG
\nWords: 9,325<\/p>\n
The Rattlesnake<\/strong><\/p>\n The Cartwright brothers were plodding slowly across the Arizona desert from Tucson back to Yuma. They were tired, cranky, and above all HOT! The hotelkeeper in Yuma had cautioned the brothers from making the trek saying the June heat in Arizona is nothing to shake a stick at, especially for folks not used to it. In fact, he had told them desert weather was tricky, as miserably hot as it got during the day, it could get equally cold at night. But there was a prize bull in Tucson and the Cartwrights couldn\u2019t come this close and not at least take a look, not after the disappointing stock they\u2019d seen in Yuma. Ben, of course, had been leery. He didn\u2019t want his boys to go alone, but he had contract meetings\u2026that was the reason for the trip to Yuma in the first place. He had brought Adam to help him with all the details and review the fine print. He had brought Hoss along to check out the breeding stock and Joseph, well Ben brought him along because he knew he couldn\u2019t leave the mischievous 15 year old home alone.<\/p>\n But now he had that mischievous 15 year old in Yuma with too much time on his hands. Ben\u2019s meetings were taking longer than he anticipated. The boys were bored. There wasn\u2019t much to occupy them in Yuma. Ben had hoped they would acquire the breeding stock and that would occupy Hoss and Joe. But the stock was just not up to Ponderosa standards, so Ben decided not to buy it. That left Hoss and Joe with nothing but time. Adam too was chaffing with boredom. Ben no longer needed Adam\u2019s help with the contracts as they were just haggling now, but that could go on and on. So when word came of the bull in Tucson the boys jumped at the opportunity to go check it out. They all knew it would be 3 or 4 long, hot days on the trail, but at least it was something to do. And if the bull turned out to be as good as they had been told then that would make up for the dismal stock they reviewed in Yuma. So they started in on Ben.<\/p>\n \u201cIt sounds like a perfect opportunity, Pa,\u201d Adam stated calmly. \u201cAnd an efficient use of our time, instead of just sitting around\u2026<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Sweating!\u201d Hoss interjected and Adam shot him an annoyed glare.<\/p>\n \u201cWell if you think it\u2019s hot just sitting around, it\u2019ll be much hotter riding through that desert,\u201d Ben retorted with authority.<\/p>\n \u201cAh, come on Pa it\u2019s just dad blame hot everywhere, here and in the desert\u2026.what\u2019s the difference!\u201d Hoss complained, but when Adam shot him another look he changed his tactics and his tone. \u201cAdam\u2019s right though Pa. How often do we get down to these parts? Seems ta me like a right good opportunity to check out a prize bull.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe had been surprisingly quiet during the conversation and looked up when he felt his father\u2019s look fall upon him.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t look at me, I\u2019ll be perfectly happy to stay right here, there\u2019s a nice looking little gal in that saloon, I\u2019d like to get to know,\u201d Joe stated boldly and without a hint of the smile, he was trying to hide. But he knew that comment would sway his father.<\/p>\n \u201cOH really, young man!\u201d Ben thundered, falling into Joe\u2019s trap. \u201cWell that saloon is no place for you, so you just get your gear together and be ready to ride to Tucson with your brothers.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOkay Pa, whatever you say,\u201d Joe said sweetly. He grinned at his brothers as he walked by and whispered softly, \u201cSometimes logic just don\u2019t work.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss and Adam both chuckled, but quickly coughed and cleared their throats to hide their amusement. Ben studied his two older sons and realized he\u2019d been hood winked yet again by his youngest.<\/p>\n Ben smiled and shook his head then said, \u201cAll right you can go, but we need to sit down and discuss this, Adam\u2026I have some concerns,\u201d Ben added with a slight nod of his head toward Joe.<\/p>\n After Ben left for his meeting Adam and Hoss sat together in their suite. \u201cThere\u2019s no gal in the saloon is there, Adam? I mean Joe ain\u2019t been in there but once and all the gals we saw then, well they weren\u2019t Joe\u2019s type\u2026I mean they was a bit old,\u201d Hoss said shyly.<\/p>\n Adam smiled as he replied, \u201cNo I don\u2019t think so. I guess it\u2019s like he said, sometimes logic just doesn\u2019t work. Our little brother surely knows what buttons to push. I just hope he doesn\u2019t push mine as we\u2019re crossing that desert.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss just smiled.<\/p>\n ***************************************<\/p>\n The next morning the brothers were ready to go. They were traveling light, but decided to bring a packhorse for supplies and extra water. Each also had their bedroll and a light jacket.<\/p>\n \u201cI still don\u2019t see why we need to haul along these jackets,\u201d Joe complained as he tied his blue jacket on his saddle with his bedroll.<\/p>\n \u201cCome night fall you won\u2019t be asking that question, little brother, you\u2019ll be thanking Pa cause he made you bring it,\u201d Hoss chided.<\/p>\n \u201cHoss is right Joe. We\u2019ve been in town at night, but out on that desert, it can get cold. Remember what that hotel clerk said,\u201d Adam tried to explain, Joe just shrugged his shoulders.<\/p>\n \u201cYou boys ready to go?\u201d Ben asked as he came up behind Joe and put his hand on his neck giving it a loving squeeze.<\/p>\n \u201cI think so Pa,\u201d Adam replied.<\/p>\n \u201cYup, we\u2019ve got enough water for a wagon train, enough food for the army and\u2026\u201d Joe said sarcastically.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd enough sass, young man,\u201d Ben said sternly. \u201cYou can never be too careful when you\u2019re traveling through dangerous country. I want you to remember that Joseph. You need to keep your wits about you all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir, I\u2019m sorry, Pa. We\u2019ll be careful,\u201d Joe said contritely and when his father arched his eyebrow, Joe added. \u201cI\u2019ll be careful and I\u2019ll listen to Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot only listen Joseph, obey. Please son, for my sake,\u201d Ben urged in a worried tone of voice.<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir, I promise,\u201d Joe said with a smile as he moved toward his father for a quick hug before departure. \u201cI love you Pa,\u201d Joe added softly so only his father could hear.<\/p>\n \u201cI love you too, boy,\u201d Ben said just as softly as he turned the boy toward his horse.<\/p>\n \u201cBye, Pa. Hopefully we\u2019ll bring back a mighty fine bull with us,\u201d Hoss said with enthusiasm.<\/p>\n \u201cI hope so too, son. Use your best judgment. If he\u2019s not just right, then pass, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure thing Pa. Good luck in them meetin\u2019s,\u201d Hoss added as he mounted.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you son. Good luck to you boys too,\u201d Ben replied as he turned to Adam reaching his hand out to shake hands with his eldest.<\/p>\n \u201cHave a safe trip son. Take care of yourself and those two rapscallions, too,\u201d Ben said with a smile.<\/p>\n \u201cI will Pa, try not to worry. What could go wrong?\u201d Adam said with a chuckle.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t tempt fate boy. Just be careful, you shouldn\u2019t have any trouble though. I double checked and there is no Indian trouble between here and Tucson, and aside from being hot the weather shouldn\u2019t be a problem\u2026\u201d Ben listed possible problems until Adam cut him off.<\/p>\n \u201cPa!\u201d Adam interjected and grinned. \u201cWe\u2019ll be fine, really. We\u2019ll be back before you have a chance to miss us.\u201d And with that he mounted and started out of Yuma.<\/p>\n Ben stood in the street waving at his sons and smiled as Joe turned and waved calling out, \u201cBye Pa.\u201d Ben knew he was being foolish as tears welled in his eyes, but he was missing them already. \u201cBe careful\u201d he whispered to himself.<\/p>\n *****************************************<\/p>\n The trip to Tucson was uneventful. They made good time and were there in two days. But it was a complete waste of time. The \u2018prize\u2019 bull they went to see was a scrawny piece of leather pulled over bones. Disgusted, the Cartwrights didn\u2019t even spend the night in Tucson they simply turned their horses toward Yuma and began the journey back. The excitement and anticipation that had buoyed their spirits through the heat was gone once they saw the bull. Now the return trip was marred by ill tempers and short fuses fueled by disappointment and heat.<\/p>\n \u201cWell I guess these Arizona ranchers just don\u2019t know good stock, like us Nevada ranchers,\u201d Joe said lightly trying to lighten the mood.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, \u2018us\u2019 Nevada ranchers indeed,\u201d Adam retorted snidely.<\/p>\n Joe responded by making a face at his eldest brother.<\/p>\n Adam knew he was being unfair and he chuckled quietly as he thought, Joe has behaved himself throughout the trip and he\u2019s just as hot and tired as me<\/em>. Yet, Adam continued to think, he was surprisingly uncomplaining. Adam rationalized his mood by cursing the heat: it was just so hot, and his brother was driving him crazy, but not the one he expected to be a problem. It was his normally pleasant, easy-going brother who was on the warpath with the weather.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s just so dad blame hot here,\u201d Hoss whined as sweat rolled down the sides of his face.\u00a0 \u201cI know now why we ain\u2019t seen no critters in this desert,\u201d Hoss continued, \u201cwhat self respecting animal would willingly live where it\u2019s so HOT!\u201d he said bitterly as he took off his hat and wiped his brow.<\/p>\n \u201cHey Hoss I thought it was cold weather you didn\u2019t like, this ain\u2019t so bad if you don\u2019t think about it,\u201d Joe offered his way of thinking to his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cAin\u2019t so bad, ain\u2019t so bad,\u201d Hoss repeated. \u201cThis is worse than bad, Joe, this is gotta be what it\u2019s like in Hell,\u201d Hoss said seriously, but Joe only laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cSo you don\u2019t like the cold and now you don\u2019t like it warm,\u201d Joe continued to chuckle.<\/p>\n \u201cWarm!\u201d Hoss shouted. \u201cThis ain\u2019t warm Joe, this is down right HOT! And I don\u2019t like it any better than I like being cold. Can\u2019t a fella just be comfortable?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot today Hoss,\u201d Joe offered and smiled as Hoss again removed his hat to wipe his brow. Then his struggled out of his vest and continued to complain.<\/p>\n Joe just rode along now, sorry he had fueled his brother\u2019s tirade. It had started when they left Tucson and continued intermittently ever since. In fact, most everything Hoss had said had something to do with the heat. Joe took notice to Hoss\u2019s bad mood and the effect it was having on Adam and wisely stayed quiet.<\/p>\n \u201cYa know what kind of animal lives in this HEAT?!\u201d Hoss bellowed and Joe just shrugged, knowing Hoss would answer his own question whether anyone asked or not.<\/p>\n \u201cWell I\u2019ll tell ya. It\u2019s a monster that\u2019s what\u2026a Gila monster\u2026Yup monsters and snakes is about the only critters stupid enough to live where it\u2019s so dad burn hot!! And there\u2019s not even a breeze, nothing to cool ya just a bit\u2026\u201d Hoss rambled on until Adam exploded.<\/p>\n \u201cSHUT UP!\u201d Adam thundered and shocked Hoss. \u201cWill you please just shut up about the heat? We all know it\u2019s hot, but if you can\u2019t do anything about it, then please be quiet. Honestly Hoss, I expected more from you. I thought for sure Joe would be going on and on, but not you!<\/p>\n \u201cHey, I ain\u2019t done nothing,\u201d Joe defended himself hurt by Adam\u2019s accusations.<\/p>\n \u201cI know Joe and I\u2019m sorry. We\u2019re all hot, tired, and disappointed. It\u2019s been a long trip for nothing. Look there\u2019s only an hour or so before sundown. Let\u2019s see if we can find some shade and set up camp for the night. Then we can get an early start in the morning before it gets too hot,\u201d Adam reasoned.<\/p>\n \u201cShade! There ain\u2019t no shade in this God forsaken country,\u201d Hoss started up again but as Adam let out a big sigh, the big man looked to him contritely, \u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam. I\u2019ll try and stop complaining. But it\u2019s hard cause it so\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHOT!\u201d Both Adam and Joe finished his sentence and laughed. Hoss joined in and all three brothers shared a hearty laugh.<\/p>\n The Cartwrights set up camp and tended their horses. They made a small fire, prepared dinner and set up their bedrolls. As the sun set the brothers sat in companionable silence and sipped their coffee. Finally Hoss broke the quiet, \u201cAh,\u201d he said as he exhaled. \u201cIt\u2019s finally cooling off. Now this feels better.\u201d Hoss smiled as he slipped his leather vest back on.<\/p>\n Adam chuckled. It was good to see Hoss in a better mood. \u201cWell enjoy it while you can brother,\u201d Adam suggested good-naturedly, \u201cBecause I\u2019d imagine tomorrow will be much like it was today\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201dHOT!\u201d Joe shouted from his bedroll. He was snuggling under his blanket twisting the woolen cloth around his legs like he liked it when he slept on the trail. He liked the feeling of being all snug. He rested his head on his upturned saddle and placed his hat over his face then tucked his arm under the blanket. Once finished he exhaled loudly and said good night.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe, did you put your jacket on, buddy?\u201d Adam called to him.<\/p>\n \u201cYup, g\u2019night.\u201d Came Joe\u2019s sleepily reply.<\/p>\n Adam and Hoss smiled as their baby brother drifted off to sleep. \u201cHe\u2019s sure a funny one, ain\u2019t he? At home his covers are all over the place, but here on the trail he\u2019s all wound up in \u2018em,\u201d Hoss explained.<\/p>\n Adam sipped his coffee and nodded. \u201cHe sure has behaved himself this trip. I\u2019m glad frankly and surprised.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh Adam, he\u2019s a good kid,\u201d Hoss defended his brother. \u201cIt\u2019s probably just the heat that\u2019s keeping him mellow. It\u2019s just too hot to stir up trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam laughed, \u201cAgain with the weather, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSorry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI meant I\u2019m glad he\u2019s not pushing too hard,\u201d Adam explained \u201cI was afraid he\u2019d think I set too slow a pace, but I promised Pa.\u201d Seeing Hoss\u2019s confusion, Adam continued.\u00a0\u201cYou know how Pa worries about the kid,\u201d Adam said and Hoss shook his head in agreement. \u201cWell remember a few years ago when Joe was stricken with that sun stroke, trying to save Josephine Walters, well Doctor Martin told Pa, Joe would always be highly susceptible to them now. So naturally he was worried about Joe and the heat and told me to take it slow and easy and not let the kid get over heated.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, and I guess I didn\u2019t help that worry with all my complaining did I? I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Hoss said apologetically.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry about it and you were right,\u201d Adam smiled at his largest brother who raised his eyebrows in question. \u201cIt is HOT here.\u201d Both brothers laughed quietly. \u201cLet get to bed so we can make an early start in the morning. Good night Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood night Adam,\u201d Hoss answered and settled onto his bedroll.<\/p>\n ****************************************** \u201cMorning,\u201d Hoss mumbled as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cGood morning to you too,\u201d Adam answered. \u201cYou want some coffee?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYup, smells good, too,\u201d Hoss said accepting the cup from Adam. \u201cWhat\u2019s for breakfast?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell you have a choice this morning. You can have beans or beans and jerky. What\u2019ll it be?\u201d Adam said with a smile.<\/p>\n \u201cHum, that\u2019s a hard choice there, but I think I\u2019ll have beans and a side of jerky,\u201d Hoss chuckled.<\/p>\n \u201cFine choice sir, I\u2019ll inform the chef,\u201d Adam said also chuckling.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat about sleeping beauty over there. Want me to wake him up?\u201d Hoss asked motioning towards Joe.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, let him sleep till breakfast is ready. If we wake him too soon it\u2019s liable to throw off his disposition and I can\u2019t have two brothers in foul moods,\u201d Adam said with a smile.<\/p>\n \u201cYou don\u2019t have to worry about me today, big brother. I\u2019m gonna give Joe\u2019s thinkin\u2019 a try. It\u2019s only hot if ya think about it. So I ain\u2019t thinkin\u2019 about it,\u201d Hoss vowed.<\/p>\n \u201cGood luck. You think it\u2019ll work?\u201d Adam asked unconvinced.<\/p>\n \u201cI doubt it. It ain\u2019t never worked when I tried to tell myself I ain\u2019t hungry. How\u2019s them beans comin\u2019?” Hoss asked patting his stomach.<\/p>\n \u201cChef says just a few more minutes sir,\u201d Adam replied with an air of authority.<\/p>\n Once the beans were done, Adam served up three plates full and handed one to Hoss. \u201cWell it\u2019s about time to break the morning calm,\u201d Adam said nodding his head toward Joe. \u201cBe my guest.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks,\u201d Hoss grumbled but then smiled, \u201cI think I\u2019ll do it from a distance,\u201d He said as he picked up a handful of pebbles and began lofting them gently onto his brother. \u201cOh Joooooooooooseph,\u201d Hoss called in sing song fashion. \u201cTime to get-uuuuuuuuuuup.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe made no respond and didn\u2019t even move. Adam laughed and Hoss tossed a few more pebbled and called again, \u201cJoooooooseph, rise and shine.\u201d Frustrated, Hoss made a face and turned to Adam. \u201cHe\u2019s just doing that to be ornery. He must be awake and is tryin\u2019 to make me get up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell go get \u2018em big fella.\u201d Adam laughed as he had throughout the wake-up process.<\/p>\n Hoss pulled himself to his feet and lobbed the remaining pebbles at his sleeping brother all at once and shouted, \u201cCome on Joe, get up!\u201d Hoss made a move towards his brother but Adam grabbed his arm.<\/p>\n \u201cHoss,\u201d Adam whispered his voice tight, \u201cdid you hear that?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d Hoss asked confused by Adam\u2019s quick change in demeanor.<\/p>\n \u201cQuiet, listen,\u201d Adam ordered and then they heard it again. The distinct sound of rattlesnake and it was close by.<\/p>\n Hoss\u2019s eyes widened in fear and he quickly scanned the camp. \u201cDo you see it?\u201d He asked Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cNO, but I sure hear it. It has to be close,\u201d Adam replied and pulled his gun. Hoss did the same. \u201cYou circle to the right and I\u2019ll go left and listen sharp,\u201d Adam ordered.<\/p>\n Adam and Hoss moved slowly and quietly each looking intently for the snake. They saw nothing and for a moment they heard nothing. They looked at each other questioningly.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t see nothin\u2019 Adam. You?\u201d Hoss called softly.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, but we both heard it plain as day,\u201d Adam stated in frustration.<\/p>\n \u201cI know, but maybe he\u2019s moved off,\u201d Hoss suggested and moved over toward Joe and Adam joined him. As the brother approached their sleeping sibling they heard the tell tale sound again.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s somewhere near Joe,\u201d Hoss cried in fear.<\/p>\n \u201cI hear it. Do you see it Hoss?\u201d Adam searched the ground frantically, as the rattling continued and grew louder the closer they got to Joe.<\/p>\n Then all at once it struck Hoss where the snake was and why they couldn\u2019t see it and in horror, Hoss stammered out his explanation to his brother, “A..A..Adam, I think it\u2019s in the bedroll with Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d Adam asked horrified at the suggestion.<\/p>\n \u201cListen,\u201d Hoss said softly \u201cyou go around Joe that way and I\u2019ll go this way and listen. That\u2019s the only place it can be.\u201d<\/p>\n Stepping lightly Adam and Hoss circled their little brother and as the rattling grew in intensity at their nearby presence they each came to the same conclusion. The snake was in Joe\u2019s bedroll with him and the closer they got to their brother the more agitated the snake became. Slowly and quietly the brothers withdrew until the rattling eased.<\/p>\n \u201cOH MY GOD! Adam what are we gonna do? That snake is in there with Joe!\u201d Hoss cried out.<\/p>\n Adam shook his head in shock. His lips moved as he stared at Joe, but no words came out. The horror of it all was too much to consider, but he had to figure out what to do, his brothers were counting on him. Adam\u2019s mind raced with possibilities: Had Joe been bitten in the night? If so, was Joe even still alive? How could they separate the snake from Joe and keep him from being bitten. A snakebite out in this desert would be dire at the very least. As Adam\u2019s mind clouded with questions, Hoss broke into his consciousness.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam,\u201d Hoss cried out again with tears rolling down his face. \u201cWhat are we gonna do?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam regained some control of himself and took charge. \u201cFirst thing we have to do is figure out if Joe is still alive.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cADAM!!!\u201d Hoss cried.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry Hoss, but let\u2019s face it Joe could have been bitten in the night and already be gone,\u201d Adam said gently as Hoss stood shaking his head vehemently. \u201cHoss look, look at Joe, he\u2019s in the same position he was last night. How often does that happen? He always moves in his sleep. Now come on. We need a long stick.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA stick,\u201d Hoss said sniffing and rubbing his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cYes we need a way to reach Joe without getting too close. Every time we moved nearer to Joe we irritated the snake and we can\u2019t take any chances or it may bite him\u2026..if it already hasn\u2019t,\u201d Adam explained trying to remain calm, but his stomach was churning and his emotions threatened to overtake him. But he knew Hoss would fall apart if he saw him breaking down. There would be time for emotion later, now they had to help Joe, if they still could.<\/p>\n \u201cYou go look for a long, sturdy stick\u2026 try and make it at least ten feet. Okay?\u201d Adam directed.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay, what are you gonna do?\u201d Hoss asked in a shaky voice.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m gonna get as close as I can and try to talk to Joe. If he\u2019s still with us, he needs to know to stay still. If he wakes up and moves, it\u2019s all over. That snake will strike,\u201d Adam told Hoss. \u201cNow go find a stick, and Hoss,\u201d Hoss stopped and looked into Adam\u2019s eyes. He saw the fear there, but said nothing to let on, \u201cIt\u2019s going to be alright. We\u2019ll get the kid out of this. Okay?\u2019<\/p>\n \u201cSure,\u201d Hoss affirmed, but Adam\u2019s eyes said more than his words and Hoss feared they be bringing a body back to their father.<\/p>\n Adam moved slowly toward Joe and began to speak softly to his baby brother. \u201cJoe, Joe you have to lie still boy, you hear me don\u2019t move Joe and stay quiet. Not a muscle, you hear. Hoss and I are working on getting you out of this mess. You just lie still you hear me.\u201d Adam paused unsure if he should tell his volatile little brother of his predicament. He probably already knew Adam assumed, but if he didn\u2019t he needed to be told, for any sudden movements could spell disaster.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe,\u201d Adam continued. \u201cJoe you have to lie still, you hear me. Joe there\u2019s a rattler in your bedroll with you, but don\u2019t you worry Hoss and I are going to get you out of this. You just lie still and let us take care of everything.\u201d Adam continued to repeat his litany of \u201clie still\u2019 to his brother until Hoss returned.<\/p>\n \u201cI found the stick Adam,\u201d Hoss said from behind Adam. Adam slowly moved back to join Hoss. \u201cHas he said anything to you Adam?\u201d Hoss asked choking up again.<\/p>\n \u201cNo,\u201d Adam answered and Hoss looked stricken and Adam quickly followed up, \u201cbut I told him to be quiet.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat are we gonna do next?\u201d Hoss asked urgently.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m gonna take the stick and try to move his hat so we can see if\u201d Adam paused as his fears crowded his mind. He was sure Hoss couldn\u2019t handle it if they removed the hat only to find their brother frozen in death and he was more certain that he himself couldn\u2019t take it either. \u201c\u2026so we can see his face,\u201d Adam corrected himself. \u201cCome on, but stay behind me.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam approached his brother but got no closer than before and both he and Hoss heard the snake express its aggravation. Adam and Hoss shared a look of concern but continued, they had to see Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n Adam slowly reached the stick toward Joe, all the while continually talking to Joe. \u201cJoe remember to lie still. I\u2019m going to try and move your hat so we can see your face. I\u2019m over here to your left. Just move your eyes toward me and stay still\u2026here goes.\u201d Adam flicked the hat with the stick and sent it flying away from his brother. The site before Adam and Hoss was burned into their memories: Their little brother was indeed alive, but his face spoke of the pure terror he felt as his eyes shot to the left and took in his brothers. Joe\u2019s eyes were wide with fear and were ringed with dark circles. Adam and Hoss realized their brother must have lied awake with that snake in his bedroll for most of the night.<\/p>\n Joe was exhausted by fear and tension, but was overcome by a strange sense of relief now that his brothers were finally aware of his situation. The snake had joined Joe shortly after everyone settled down for the night. The desert floor had indeed grown cold and the snake was just seeking a warm place to coil up. Unfortunately for Joe, he was that place and the snake had chosen to slither under the corner of his blanket and come to rest at his side. Occasionally throughout the long night the snake moved onto his stomach, but always came back to rest at his right side, it\u2019s head perched on his arm leaving Joe very vulnerable should the snake move to strike. Joe had remained rigid throughout the night but now hours later, his body was crying out for relief. His muscles were tight and cramping and Joe knew lying still for much longer would be hard. But he had no way to tell his brothers for each an attempt at talking or calling out to his brothers only brought on the feared rattling sound.<\/p>\n Hoss was overcome by the look on his brother\u2019s face. He was relived Joe was still alive, but was scared by the terror on Joe\u2019s face. Hoss cried out pitifully, \u201cOh Joe!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam tried to be strong but when a lone tear rolled down Joe\u2019s face Adam crumbled. He fell to his knees and place the stick quietly on the ground. \u201cDon\u2019t cry boy, please Joe.\u201d Adam all but begged. \u201cWe\u2019re gonna get you out of this mess.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe looked pleadingly toward his brother and Adam cringed at the sight, for he knew what his brother wanted. Joe mouthed one word: PA.<\/p>\n \u201cOh Joe, I know you want Pa, boy and don\u2019t worry well get you to your Pa,\u201d Adam said encouragingly. \u201cBut, listen Joe I need to ask you a few questions first and I want you to just mouth yes or no, Okay? I don\u2019t want you to try and talk. We don\u2019t want to take any chances with that snake.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe just stared at Adam waiting for the first question.<\/p>\n \u201cHave you been bitten?\u201d Adam asked tentatively, afraid for the answer.<\/p>\n No. Both brothers heaved a sigh of relief.<\/p>\n \u201cHas that snake been with you all night, boy?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n Yes.<\/p>\n \u201cHave you gotten any sleep?\u201d Adam asked trying to gauge his brother\u2019s endurance.<\/p>\n No.<\/p>\n \u201cIs the snake near you?\u201d Adam needed to know where the snake was to formulate a plan.<\/p>\n Yes.<\/p>\n \u201cIs it touching you?\u201d If it were, that would make things hard Adam thought.<\/p>\n Yes.<\/p>\n \u201cIs it on you?\u201d Adam asked with a shaky voice.<\/p>\n Yes.<\/p>\n That would make things nearly impossible, but Adam hid his fears and tried to smile. \u201cOkay Joe, I need to move away for a moment and talk this situation over with Hoss. Remember don\u2019t move,\u201d Adam reminded his brother as he locked eyes with the frightened boy. Adams heart broke as once again Joe mouthed:<\/p>\n Pa.<\/p>\n \u201cI know Joe, I know. I\u2019ll be right back with you, okay?\u2019 Adam reassured his brother.<\/p>\n Hoss was on the verge of panic as he questioned his brother, \u201cWhat are we gonna do, Adam? That poor kid\u2019s gotta be exhausted bein\u2019 like that all night!<\/p>\n \u201cCalm down Hoss, Joe can\u2019t hear you giving way like this he has to be still,\u201d Adam scolded.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry,\u201d Hoss muttered. \u201cBut what are we gonna do? It\u2019s already startin\u2019 to get hot and Joe\u2019s got his coat on and he\u2019s under them blankets. He\u2019s gonna cook. Look at \u2018em he\u2019s already sweating,\u201d Hoss urged hoping Adam would take action.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is getting hot,\u201d Adam muttered as he realized his brow was wet with sweat. Adam mopped his forehead and shook his head with concern. Finally Adam sighed and said softly to Hoss, \u201cI think we need to wait.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWait!\u201d Hoss hissed through clenched teeth. \u201cWe can\u2019t wait, Adam. Joe\u2019s already melting like a wax doll and Pa said we gotta be careful about gettin\u2019 him over heated.”<\/p>\n \u201cI know all that, but look at him Hoss,\u201d Adam challenged. \u201cHe\u2019s all twisted up in those blankets and he said the snake is on him in some way. How can we remove the blankets without the snake biting him? NO, we have to wait,\u201d Adam declared but Hoss shook his head vigorously. Again Adam tried to convince him. He knew the decision was his but it would be easier to wait if Hoss agreed. \u201cWe have to wait, I know Joe\u2019s strung tight, but the snake may just leave as it came. As it gets hotter, it\u2019ll want to find someplace cooler and just leave.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOr it may just get mad and bite \u2018em anyway,\u201d Hoss countered.<\/p>\n \u201cDo you have a better idea?!\u201d Adam snapped and Hoss hung his head shaking it negatively. \u201cThen we wait. I\u2019ll go tell Joe,\u201d Adam said sadly.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, wait,\u201d Hoss stopped his brother, \u201cWe gotta get Joe some water.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam thought for a moment, \u201cHoss get that stick and soak a cloth in water and we\u2019ll hold the cloth out for Joe and he can draw the water from the cloth.\u201d Hoss hurried to prepare a \u2018drink\u2019 for his brother.<\/p>\n Adam approached Joe quietly getting no closer than he did last time. He listened intently for the snake and found the reptile quiet for the time being, so he spoke softly, \u201cJoe, how you doing buddy?\u201d<\/p>\n Okay<\/p>\n \u201cIs it still on you?\u201d Adam asked willing the creature to move away.<\/p>\n Yes<\/p>\n Adam inhaled deeply before telling his little brother of the plan. It wasn\u2019t much of a plan, but it was all he could come up with, so for the time being he had to sell it like it was genius. \u201cJoe, Hoss and I think the best thing to do is wait.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe\u2019s eyes darted immediately to his left. Wait he thought. He wants to wait. Doesn\u2019t he realize I\u2019ve been waiting for hours already?<\/p>\n \u201cNow listen, buddy. I know you\u2019ve been dealing with this all night and the last thing you want to do is wait longer. You haven\u2019t been bitten and that\u2019s in our favor. But we need to be careful so that you\u2019re not. We\u2019re thinking that as it gets warmer the snake will move off to find someplace cooler.\u201d Adam tried to soothe his brother.<\/p>\n Hot. Joe mouthed, sweat already pooling at the base of his neck.<\/p>\n \u201cI know you\u2019re hot. But do you think you can hold on a bit longer? And listen, Hoss is rigging up a way to get you some water, and any time you need more you just mouth the word water,\u201d Adam offered his brother. \u201cOkay? We\u2019ll try this for a bit and see if that snake doesn\u2019t just move on.\u201d<\/p>\n Okay\u2026\u2026.Stay, Joe pleaded with his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll stay right here with you buddy. We\u2019re in this together. Okay?\u201d Adam comforted his brother. And so together, the Cartwright brothers waited. Adam\u2019s comforting words only interrupted by the sounds of the rattlesnake, which were growing in frequency and intensity.<\/p>\n After two hours of waiting, Hoss could tolerate no more of the waiting plan. Adam too was growing weary. Not to mention Joe. The sweat was rolling off the boy and Adam began to worry about sunstroke and dehydration. They were getting some water to Joe, but not enough and it was well and truly getting hotter. Indecision was tearing at Adam, but what else could they do but wait. Yet the snake was becoming more vocal and certainly Joe couldn\u2019t take much more. As Adam wrestled with his concerns Joe emitted a groan.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat!!? What is it Joe? Were you bit?\u201d Adam asked in a rush.<\/p>\n No\u2026cramp\u2026.too hot. Joe mouthed, but his eyes said it all\u2026they needed to do something else\u2026soon.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m going to go talk to Hoss,\u201d Adam told Joe. \u201cYou hang on.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong? I heard him groan.\u201d Hoss begged.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s too hot and his muscles are cramping. We\u2019re not getting him enough water. This isn\u2019t working. That snakes not going anywhere. We\u2019ve got to do\u2026\u2026\u2026..something,\u201d Adam lamented.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d Hoss asked hopefully but Adam snapped back his reply.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d Adam hissed, but quickly apologized to his tenderhearted brother. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Hoss. But I don\u2019t know what to do.\u201d<\/p>\n Stunned, Hoss didn\u2019t know what to say. Adam always had a plan and to hear him admit he was at a loss crushed him. Softly, Hoss suggested, \u201cWhat if we use sticks, like you did to move his hat and we move the blankets that way. Maybe that snake ain\u2019t moved away cause it can\u2019t get out, so if we let the snake lose it\u2019ll move off.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam rubbed his face and considered the idea. \u201cMaybe, maybe, but first we\u2019d have to loosen the edges from under Joe\u2026see how it\u2019s all tucked under and twisted. But it may work. But we need a back up plan in case it doesn\u2019t.\u201d Hoss\u2019s shoulders slumped in despair. \u201cWe\u2019ve gotta be ready, Hoss. Once we get started there\u2019s no going back and if that snake doesn\u2019t move off quickly\u2026we\u2019re gonna have to move it. We\u2019ll throw that blanket off fast and then move back in with the sticks and flick that snake away from Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss nodded slowly. \u201cWe gotta do it, Adam. I can\u2019t just sit here and watch that boy suffer any more. He just can\u2019t take anymore and neither can I,\u201d Hoss pleaded with tears in his eyes.<\/p>\n Adam reached out and squeezed Hoss\u2019 shoulder, \u201cI know. I can\u2019t either. Let\u2019s get ready and then I\u2019ll go explain things to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do we need to do?\u201d Hoss asked eagerly, he was ready to do anything to bring this nightmare to an end.<\/p>\n \u201cFirst off I\u2019ll boil our knives,\u201d Adam started and Hoss wrinkled his brow questioningly.<\/p>\n \u201cIn case we have to tend a bite.\u201d Adam explained solemnly.<\/p>\n \u201cOh,\u201d Hoss muttered, he didn\u2019t want to consider that possibility.<\/p>\n \u201cYou go find us some more long, sturdy sticks, and I\u2019ll go talk to Joe.\u201d Adam directed and Hoss nodded in understanding as he moved to his task.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe,\u201d Adam began. \u201cWe\u2019ve come up with a plan plus a back-up,\u201d he smiled weakly. \u201cAnd we\u2019re going to need your help.\u201d Joe\u2019s hopeful and trusting eyes gazed toward his brother as he listened to Adam explain the plans and his instructions. \u201c\u2026so,\u201d Adam concluded, \u201cif that snake doesn\u2019t leave, Hoss and I will move in with the sticks to toss it away and at that point you roll left fast and we\u2019ll toss right. Okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Yes, Joe mouthed with a smile. He was thrilled that there was a plan, any plan.<\/p>\n \u201cGood. Now where is the snake? Is it still touching you, can you feel it?\u201d Adam tried to figure out where the snake was so he could guess if the original idea or the back up had better chance of success. For, if the snake were still on or touching Joe it would be harder to flick it away without it biting his brother.<\/p>\n Yes. Joe mouthed.<\/p>\n Adam sighed deeply as he frowned. \u201cThat\u2019s going to make this hard Joe, but don\u2019t worry, we\u2019ll still go ahead. You be ready to move, but first give the snake a moment to move off. Okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe nodded his understanding and Adam added. \u201cWe\u2019ll be ready in a bit. Hoss is getting what we need and I\u2019m going to go see how he\u2019s coming. It\u2019ll be just a few more minutes. Just sit tight.\u201d Adam smiled reassuringly as he moved away. He and Hoss had already packed all their gear and the horses were ready to go. Adam wanted to be ready to move out as soon as possible in case they needed to get any of them to medical attention.<\/p>\n ***********************************<\/p>\n It was late morning by time the elder Cartwright brothers were ready to make a rescue attempt. Joe was an exhausted puddle of sweat. He was desperately thirsty and ready to bolt at a moments notice. The only thing that kept him frozen in place was the ever-persistent rattle coming from under his blankets. Joe\u2019s eyes darted around as he watched his brothers move slowly into position. Adam was positioned between his head and shoulders on his left while Hoss was down near his feet, also on his left. The plan was for Adam and Hoss to reach toward Joe with the sticks, first to loosen the blankets edges, which were twisted under Joe. Then they would reposition the sticks and together, lift the blanket off Joe. Joe would remain perfectly still and hopefully the snake would realize it was free of confinement and move off. The backup plan was more risky, but if the snake didn\u2019t leave of it\u2019s own accord, Adam and Hoss would toss it away with the sticks as Joe rolled left, between Adam and Hoss.<\/p>\n \u201cReady?\u201d Adam asked softly as he looked first to Hoss and then to Joe. Each replied positively.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay then here we go\u2026\u201d Adam declared. The brothers poked the stick under their brother and gently loosened the blanket and each man was painfully aware of the snake, as the rattle had become constant. Joe\u2019s eyes grew as the snake moved and he could feel it on his arm, but he had no way to alert his brothers, as they were intent on releasing the blanket. Then in a whirl of activity that seemed to last forever but in reality was only a moment: The blanket went sailing through the air, the snake moved to strike and Joe lurched to the left knocking into his brothers who were looking past Joe for the snake. As the action came to an abrupt end the three brothers were in a tangled heap and the snake was slowly slithering away.<\/p>\n Recovering quickly, Hoss and Adam were back on their feet and at Joe\u2019s side.<\/p>\n \u201cThere goes that varmint!\u201d Hoss cried, his eyes following the snake but he was drawn back to his brothers by Adam\u2019s cry.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe!\u201d Adam shouted anxiously at Joe who was clutching his wrist. \u201cAre you hurt boy?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt bit me.\u201d Joe answered softly, a touch of confusion clouding his thoughts.<\/p>\n \u201cOh no!\u201d Adam cried as he exhaled deeply and grabbed his brother\u2019s arm to inspect the bite.<\/p>\n \u201cHoss,\u201d Adam called out. \u201cGet some water! Now!\u201d Adam barked out his orders, \u201cand bring those bandages too.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss hurried to do Adam\u2019s bidding and was quickly at his brother\u2019s side with the needed supplies. \u201cHere Joe,\u201d Hoss held the canteen up to Joe\u2019s mouth, \u201ctake a good drink, but not too much right away.\u201d Hoss turned his attention to the bite, \u201cHow\u2019s it look? I brung the knives too. You want \u2018em?\u201d He asked as he began to cool off his baby brother. Hoss removed Joe\u2019s jacket and then started to wipe down Joe\u2019s face and the back of his neck with a damp cloth.<\/p>\n \u201cNo,\u201d Adam said softly as he washed the site as best he could, but the two fang marks were already red and angry looking.<\/p>\n \u201cNo?\u201d Hoss said questioningly as he paused in his ministrations to look back and forth between Joe\u2019s frightened and confused face then back to Adam\u2019s concerned face. \u201cShouldn\u2019t we try to get that poison out?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think so. Look, Hoss,\u201d Adam held out Joe arm for Hoss to see. \u201cHe was bitten right on his wrist. If we cut him there he\u2019ll loose too much blood. He\u2019s already dehydrated; we can\u2019t take a chance of him losing any blood. I think we need to put on a tourniquet and try to get him to a doctor as soon as possible.\u201d Adam explained his reasoning as he applied the tourniquet. \u201cYou understand Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe nodded slightly, rolled his eyes and complained as he pushed his brothers away and tried to get up, \u201cWhy is it so HOT! Make it not be so damn hot, Adam!!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe need to get moving,\u201d Adam declared as he grabbed at his brother and pulled him into a tight embrace to keep him from rising. \u201cStop it Joe, you need to stay still! Hoss is everything ready to go?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYup. You want me to take Joe on Chubb with me?\u201d Hoss offered.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m gonna ride! I\u2019m going home\u201d Joe protested and continued to struggle with Adam, whose worries were growing.<\/p>\n Adam scoffed and chided, \u201cJoe, you\u2019re in no shape to ride, even without that bite. You\u2019ll ride with me, Joe. No argument.\u201d Joe nodded slightly, not even sure what they had been talking about or what he was agreeing to.<\/p>\n The immediate capitulation was not lost on Adam and Hoss and only added to their concerns. If Joe wasn\u2019t fighting them, he must be well beyond feeling sickly. Joe had relented quickly for in truth he was feeling pretty rotten. He was hot and light-headed and his arm was starting to swell and throb. He felt the need to get up and walk, but the more he tried the dizzier he felt until the only thing he knew was that he was going to be sick. With a quick jerk he freed himself from Adam\u2019s hold and rolled onto his side and heaved up the water he\u2019d just drank. Adam again grabbed hold of his shoulders and held his head as the water came up. When the retching stopped, Adam helped Joe to his feet as his head lolled forward until his chin rested on his chest. Adam looked sternly at Hoss and declared, \u201cWe\u2019ve got to get moving.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam,\u201d Hoss said in a surprised tone. \u201cHe ain\u2019t in no shape to go anywhere. Jest look at \u2018em. He can barely stand let alone sit a horse even with your help.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt can\u2019t be helped,\u201d Adam insisted but Hoss just shook his head so Adam whispered his deepest fear. \u201cHoss, he was snake bit! If we don\u2019t get him to a doctor and fast, that bite could kill him and even then it still might\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam. You\u2019re right,\u201d Hoss said contritely, his eyes filling with tears. \u201cBut I\u2019m mighty worried about how hot he is, too. I think we ought cool him off a bit before we ride.\u201d He explained as he returned the damp cloth to his brother\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n \u201cAll right,\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cWe still have plenty of water. Take one of the canteens and pour some down his back and over his chest. We\u2019ll keep that cloth damp and I\u2019ll make sure it stays on his neck.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI hope that helps,\u201d Hoss said doubtfully as he finished wetting his brother. Then he and Adam loaded their lethargic brother onto Adam\u2019s horse.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay, Hoss let\u2019s move as quickly as we can. We still have a lot of ground to cover, but we need to get back to Yuma by tonight.\u201d Adam gave his directions as the brothers started out. Adam held Joe in front of him while Hoss lead Cochise and the packhorse.<\/p>\n The brothers moved quickly and quietly across the desert. Pausing only to check on Joe and give him water. Joe continued to mumble as he faded in and out of consciousness and when awake he occasionally struggled in Adam\u2019s grasp. Adam alternated his gaze between two things: the trail and Joe\u2019s arm. The trail was clear and shimmering from the heat. Joe\u2019s arm continued to swell around the bite. At first it became red but now the bite marks were blackening. Adam shook his head in despair and tightened his hold on his brother as he urged his horse to a speedier gait. As the pace quickened, he called over his shoulder to alert Hoss, \u201cHe\u2019s starting on an infection, now, too. Come on!\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss hurried along side Adam and gazed at his little brother. \u201cHe ain\u2019t doing too good, is he?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo,\u201d Adam said softly his mind full of self-reproach. He played the mornings events over and over in his mind\u2026Could he have done something else? Did they wait too long? Would a different plan have had a different outcome?<\/em> Shaking himself from his thoughts, he turned to Hoss. \u201cIt\u2019s almost dark. We can\u2019t be more than an hour outside of Yuma, now. I can manage Joe the rest of the way. Leave the horses and go on ahead alert Pa and the doctor,\u201d Adam told his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cI ain\u2019t leavin\u2019 Cochise. Joe\u2019d never forgive us iffen\u2019 we left that horse behind,\u201d Hoss cried. \u201cI can still make good time and bring Cochise in,\u201d Hoss assured Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cAlright,\u201d Adam agreed, relived that Hoss wouldn\u2019t do it. It would be faster, but he didn\u2019t have the heart to leave Joe\u2019s beloved horse behind, either.<\/p>\n Hoss took a long look at Joe. What he saw shook his soul. Joe was unconscious, but mumbling. Hoss could tell his brother was in pain. His arm was swollen and discolored and his skin was an odd color, kinda grayish, Hoss thought. Hoss turned to look at Adam, too. He saw pain on Adam\u2019s face as well, but he understood that pain, for he felt it too. It was the pain you feel, when someone you love is suffering and both he and Adam felt it intensely.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll find the doc, Adam. Don\u2019t you worry. I\u2019ll fill Pa in too. You take good care of him and come along as quick as you can,\u201d Hoss tried to sound encouraging, but his voice was full of concern. With one last look, Hoss kicked his horse to a gallop and rode toward Yuma.<\/p>\n ************************************<\/p>\n Ben was the picture of relaxation as he sat on the porch of the hotel sipping his brandy. He had finally convinced himself he had been worrying needlessly over his sons and it felt good to relax. He had concluded his meetings that afternoon having secured hefty profits for the Ponderosa. He expected his sons to return sometime the next day and then they\u2019d finally be able to head home. Ben sighed contentedly and sipped again. The streets were quite as the townsfolk settled down as night fell. Ben rested his head on the back of his chair, closed his eyes and drew a deep breath of cool night air as his thoughts drifted to his boys. He smiled as he thought of Hoss complaining about the heat\u2026so unlike him to complain\u2026<\/p>\n Ben\u2019s recollections were interrupted by the sound of hooves thundering through town. His eyes popped open and he raised his head in time to catch his son Hoss riding hard down the street toward the doctor\u2019s office. Immediately Ben was on his feet following his son.<\/p>\n \u201cDoctor, Doctor!\u201d Hoss called as he beat on the door.<\/p>\n After a number of forceful knocks, a young man in his mid twenties opened the door. \u201cYes, can I help you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf you can tell me where the doc is you can.\u201d Hoss said in one breath.<\/p>\n \u201cYou found him. Come on in. What can I do for you?\u201d The doctor asked.<\/p>\n \u201cYou?\u201d Hoss said surprised. \u201cAin\u2019t you a might\u2026.uh, uh\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYoung?\u201d The doctor chuckled. \u201cYes I am young, but I assure you I am a doctor, I\u2019ve even treated a few patients, too.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSorry,\u201d Ben said coming in the office behind his son. \u201cI\u2019m sure he was expecting someone older.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell sir, we all start out young, it\u2019s the job that ages us. Now what can I help you with?\u201d the doctor asked flatly.<\/p>\n \u201cPA!\u201d Hoss cried in relief, reaching out to grab his father\u2019s arm. \u201cI\u2019m sure glad you\u2019re here.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stared at Hoss and immediately saw the fatigue and worry etched on his face. \u201cHoss, what\u2019s wrong? Where are your brothers? What\u2019s happened?\u201d Ben pummeled Hoss with questions, as all he previous worries returned with a vengeance.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, what is the problem?\u201d The doctor asked again.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s my brother. He was bit by a rattlesnake and\u2026\u201d Hoss started to explain.<\/p>\n \u201cA rattlesnake,\u201d Ben cried.<\/p>\n \u201cGo on,\u201d the doctor urged as he started to go through his medicine cabinet. \u201cWhen did the bite occur?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJest this mornin\u2019, but\u2026\u201d Hoss tried to tell the whole story, but his father interrupted.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe or Adam?\u201d Ben all but whispered as he clutched Hoss\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s Joe Pa, and it\u2019s bad.\u201d Hoss sadly told his father and then told the whole story to him and the doctor.<\/p>\n When Hoss finished his explanation, Ben had to sit down and the doctor pressed with follow-up questions.<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Cartwright,\u201d the doctor reached to take his pulse. \u201cAre you alright?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, yes,\u201d Ben collected himself and got ready to help his son. \u201cI\u2019m fine. What can we do to get ready to tend my son?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell Hoss, let me make sure I have it straight. He was bitten this morning, there may be infection and there is some concern about heat sickness. Right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYup. He wasn\u2019t look too good when I left to find you\u2026he was kinda gray and mumblely.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI see. I\u2019m going to see about some ice. With this heat there may not be much in the icehouse, but I\u2019ll get what I can. I\u2019ll be right back.\u201d The doctor left.<\/p>\n The doctor returned a short time later with a block of ice. \u201cWould you gentlemen help me chip this ice?\u201d he asked as he worked. \u201cHow much longer do you think they\u2019ll be, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey should be along any time,\u201d Hoss answered and as if on queue they heard a horse outside.<\/p>\n \u201cThey\u2019re here!\u201d Ben cried as he opened the door and ran out to help his sons. \u201cAdam!\u201d Ben shouted. \u201cHow\u2019s Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam passed his brother down to the waiting arms of his father. He was exhausted from holding Joe in the saddle. \u201cHe\u2019s about the same, but he\u2019s started a fever.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben gathered Joe to his chest and moved with grace and speed into the doctor\u2019s office.<\/p>\n \u201cPut him in here, Mr. Cartwright and then you all can wait outside,\u201d the doctor ordered.<\/p>\n \u201cBut, I want to be with him,\u201d Ben said firmly.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sure you do, but I work better without worried family members hovering about. Now please, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d The doctor turned to tend his patient shutting Ben out.<\/p>\n Ben retreated from the examination room and joined his other sons to wait. As they waited Adam retold the events that lead them to this point.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m so sorry Pa. I really thought waiting was the best way to go. Then everything happened so fast. I don\u2019t know, I don\u2019t know\u2026.I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Adam rattled on until Ben stepped in.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, son, listen to me. You have nothing to be sorry for. You did your very best for your brother and you got him to the doctor alive. What more could I ask of you? No don\u2019t do this to yourself. You and Hoss did what you thought best and frankly, considering everything you told me you did just what I would have done. Adam,\u201d Ben said sternly, \u201cListen, I would have waited!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks, Pa, thanks,\u201d was all Adam could say. Then they waited, again\u2026and each man thought of that time earlier in the day when they also waited. Finally, when they thought he could wait no longer the young doctor opened the door. Ben tried to peek around him to see his son, but the door was quickly closed and that sent a shiver through he worried father.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, doctor, how\u2019s my son?\u201d Ben said choked with emotion and surrounded by Adam and Hoss.<\/p>\n \u201cIt could have been a lot worse, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d the doctor stated to his silent audience. \u201cHis symptoms indicate that it was what we call a dry bite, that\u2019s when the fangs penetrate the skin, but don\u2019t inject any venom. He was really very lucky. Of course you were right,\u201d the doctor looked to Hoss. \u201cThe bite site is infected, that\u2019s what led to the redness and swelling, but I\u2019ve cleaned that out and cut away the infected tissue\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam interrupted, \u201cShould we have cut the site?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCertainly not!\u201d The doctor stated firmly. \u201cAs I said there was no venom, but even if there was cutting a snake bite does no good whatsoever. He would have been in greater jeopardy had you cut that site.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam felt a surge of relief at the validation and Ben reached out touched his arm lightly for support.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat about sun stroke? We\u2019ve been worrying about that, too?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n The doctor continued, \u201cI understand why you\u2019d all worry considering the history you told me about, and I was coming to that. I have him in an ice sheet, to bring his temperature down and I packed his arm to reduce it\u2019s swelling. I don\u2019t think it\u2019s as bad as sunstroke, but it\u2019s definitely heat exhaustion. But I think we caught it in time.\u201d The doctor looked at Adam and Hoss and continued, \u201cYou certainly saved his life getting him medical attention so quickly. Even a few more hours and he may have been beyond help. As it is now the infection should drain nicely and with time and rest he should recover totally.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMay I see him, sit with him? Ben asked, but it was more of a statement than a question.<\/p>\n \u201cCertainly, you may all see him for a moment, but then I suggest these two young men refresh themselves and get some rest,\u201d the doctor instructed.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, yes that\u2019s a good idea boys. You both have been through a lot today as well,\u201d Ben agreed and shook the doctors\u2019 hand. \u201cThank you doctor, thank you very much.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben spent the remainder of the day and night at his son\u2019s side. He was determined to be there when Joe came to. Sometime during the night the doctor removed the ice sheet and they settled Joe into a warm, comfortable bed. Joe didn\u2019t stir, but the doctor assured Ben, Joe was in healing sleep. So again Ben waited. The next morning, Adam and Hoss returned to the doctor\u2019s office baring breakfast and looking rested. After eating, the Cartwrights each took a seat and waited for Joe to stir. Their patience was soon rewarded as Joe rose to consciousness.<\/p>\n \u201cPa,\u201d came Joe soft plea, \u201cPa,\u201d he repeated.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m right here son, your Pa\u2019s right here,\u201d Ben comforted his child and took his hand.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, why couldn\u2019t I have just stayed here and sweet talked that saloon gal?\u201d Joe asked softly and innocently and then closed his eyes and drifted back off to sleep.<\/p>\n Ben laughed out loud and brushed his hand through Joe\u2019s curls and smiled at Adam and Hoss and said, \u201cHe\u2019s going to be just fine, the little scamp. Just fine!<\/p>\n \u201cWhat did he say, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n Still laughing, Ben answered, \u201cHe asked me why he couldn\u2019t have stayed here with the saloon girl.\u201d<\/p>\n As Joe slept, the elder Cartwrights all enjoyed a hearty laugh and finally relaxed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The End<\/p>\n <\/p>\n July 2003<\/p>\n
\nAdam rose first the next morning and set about preparing the coffee. The aroma of the brew is what awoke Hoss.<\/p>\n