{"id":3672,"date":"2010-01-08T12:22:07","date_gmt":"2010-01-08T17:22:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3672"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:22:09","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:22:09","slug":"faith","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3672","title":{"rendered":"Faith (by Barbara)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Adam finally meets his wife to be, but before the wedding a tragedy occurs that almost tears the Cartwrights apart for good.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T (5,885 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Faith<\/strong><\/p>\n

PART ONE<\/p>\n

He\u2019d found her. Adam had finally found the woman he would marry. How did he know? He knew because he\u2019d never felt like this about anyone before \u2013 not Laura or even Ruth. He loved them yes, but not like this. Every waking moment was filled with thoughts of her. And, at night, he dreamed of her \u2013 Faith.<\/p>\n

She\u2019d moved to Virginia City five months ago. Her father and mother opened the town\u2019s first notions store. Adam first saw her when she entered the mercantile where he and his brothers were doing their monthly shopping. It was ritual for them to ride into town with their pay and buy their favorite items.<\/p>\n

Hoss usually indulged in a bag of sweets \u2013 a big bag. Little Joe always sampled gentleman\u2019s cologne or he might splurge on a dime store novel or a catalogue with the latest rifles, clothing and tack. Adam rarely splurged. Every purchase was well thought out and justified. That day he needed writing paper, a comb and the set of guitar strings he\u2019d sent to San Francisco for.<\/p>\n

The boys milled about the store until Faith made her entrance. That was all it took for Adam to realize that she was the one. He\u2019d always thought love at first sight was nonsense. He was wrong. And, for a man who was mostly right about just about everything, it was a revelation.<\/p>\n

Both Hoss and Joe straightened up when Faith came into the place as they would for any pretty, young lady but were promptly brushed aside by their older brother. The boys sniffed at him as he swaggered by them to introduce himself. They accepted it, and returned to browsing.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello.\u201d He said with his rich baritone voice. \u201cI\u2019m Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHello.\u201d She accepted his greeting with an outstretched, gloved hand. \u201cMy name is Faith. Faith McIsaac.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam took her hand gently and bowed slightly to kiss it. Then he glanced up at her soulfully. It was only then that she knew it too. She was looking at the man to whom she would give her heart. She could see her unborn children in his sensitive eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like to have lunch with me Faith?\u201d He asked boldly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI would love to sir.\u201d She replied.<\/p>\n

With her acceptance, Adam offered his crooked arm for her to take. She placed her tiny hand on his forearm. Her touch was so soft; he barely felt it on his forearm. The pair turned to leave the store.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d Hoss interrupted. \u201cWhere you goin\u2019? We\u2019ve got all that feed to load up still. Don\u2019t you go anywhere we k\u2019ain\u2019t find ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure it\u2019s nothing you and little brother can\u2019t handle.\u201d Adam answered smartly. \u201cI\u2019ll see you boys back at the ranch\u2026 later.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u201d Little Joe tried to retort.<\/p>\n

\u201cLater Joe\u2026 much later.\u201d<\/p>\n

The twosome left the store and Adam escorted Faith to the Palace Hotel for lunch. But, lunch soon melted into dinnertime and dinnertime soon turned to night. The time had come for them to part. Adam walked Faith home and kissed her precociously on the cheek. She blushed slightly but she was glad he did.<\/p>\n

He rode home, somewhat in a haze of emotion. He was confused at the way he felt. It was like he had to force himself to ride away from Faith. He felt like he should only be riding toward her \u2013 like being separated from her was unnatural. When he finally entered the house he was oblivious to his family who looked up at him with anticipation.<\/p>\n

Ben sat in the red leather chair reading a book and smoking his pipe. Occasionally, he\u2019d peer up at Hoss and Joe, as they cheated each other at checkers. The game board was placed on the massive coffee table that stood in front of the equally massive fireplace. Joe sat in the light blue, velvet chair and Hoss on the settee.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell.\u201d Ben began, hoping to hear all about this new girl. \u201cRumor has it you\u2019re smitten son.\u201d<\/p>\n

But, Adam did not reply. He stared into space, distracted by images of her.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh\u2026 ah, sorry Pa. Did you say something?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI said, the boys tell me you met someone this afternoon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Yes I did.\u201d Adam smirked wickedly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the young ladies name?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026 the young ladies name is\u2026 Mrs. Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

With his oldest son\u2019s astonishing announcement, his father and siblings watched dumbstruck as Adam sauntered across the living room floor and ascended the stairs to his room.
\nPART TWO<\/p>\n

Shots rang out. Adam bolted out of bed, hitting his noggin on the headboard. He sucked air through his gritted teeth and cursed his youngest brother. As he stood he rubbed the dented spot vigorously to erase the pain. More shots echoed through the air just outside Adam\u2019s bedroom window. He knew it was Joe who chose the most inconsiderate times to practice his target shooting. Adam stumbled to the window stubbing his toe on the leg of the bed. Again, he howled. He hopped over to the window and opened it as wide as it would go. He stuck his entire torso out and leaned on the sill for balance.<\/p>\n

\u201cJOE! How many times have I told you to do that out on the range.\u201d Adam bellowed. \u201cI just about gave myself a concussion! I think I broke my toe! You scared my half to death.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s almost noon.\u201d Joe blasted back. \u201cYou should have been out of bed hours ago older brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam gave Joe a gnarly scowl and pulled himself back into his room. He rubbed his head again and growled. He glanced at the clock and was astonished to see that Joe was right. It was 11:38. He sat on the edge of his bed and examined his foot for damage.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t anyone wake me?\u201d He mumbled to himself, preoccupied with his three little toes that were already turning blue.<\/p>\n

The truth was, Adam hadn\u2019t slept well at all. He\u2019d tossed and turned for hours. All he could think about was Faith. It wasn\u2019t until early morning that he finally fell asleep. His mind couldn\u2019t help but plan his future \u2013 his future with her. He thought about the wedding, and the design of their house. He even wondered about his children. He was exhausted. Several more shots were fired and it made Adam seethe.<\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d He yelled as he threw on his housecoat and hobbled out of his bedroom and to the top of the stairs. \u201cPA. Could you please tell your son to do his target shooting somewhere else?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell good morning Adam.\u201d Ben greeted calmly. \u201cOr should I say, good afternoon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Pa. I couldn\u2019t sleep last night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d Ben said as he looked up at his boy with a smirk.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s so funny?\u201d Adam asked as if he didn\u2019t know.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh nothing. I just remember the sleepless nights I had when I first met your mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam grinned back at his father and went back to his room to dress and start the day.<\/p>\n

++++<\/p>\n

\u201cWell?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell what Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam. You came into this house last night and announced you\u2019re engagement to a woman you just met hours before. I\u2019d like to know something about my future daughter.\u201d<\/p>\n

The men had just sat down for lunch and placed their napkins politely on their laps. Ben, Hoss and Little Joe could barely contain their curiosity. Adam was never one to discuss his personal life voluntarily. He had to be probed for information first.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHer name is Faith McIsaac and\u2026 she\u2019s the one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe one?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d Adam concluded simply as he broke off a piece of bread and popped it in his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cA few more details would be much appreciated.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have any details.\u201d Adam chewed nonchalantly. \u201cWe met. We love each other and we\u2019re going to get married.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, you\u2019ve only known the girl for a few hours.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me ask you this Pa. When you first saw my mother. You knew right then and there didn\u2019t you? You knew that she would become your wife. The same is true with Hoss\u2019 mother and Joe\u2019s\u2026 right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Ben smiled warmly, \u201cI knew.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s the same with Faith. I just know. And, so does she. It\u2019s just, I don\u2019t know, it just feels right. I have to be with her. And, she has to be with me. It\u2019s that simple.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, can we at least meet her?\u201d Ben asked beaming with happiness for his number one son.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll invite her for supper on Saturday.\u201d Adam pointed at his younger brothers accusingly. \u201cAnd, you two are to be on your best behavior\u2026 understood.\u201d<\/p>\n

Both Hoss and Joe looked at Adam innocently.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did we do?\u201d Joe asked puzzled.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing\u2026yet.\u201d Adam said as he rose from the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you going?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cTown.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, you were supposed to ride fence with me today.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam walked to the front door and put on his hat and holster and turned back to his family.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I have more important things to do today than ride fence with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll bet he\u2019d ride fence with Faith.\u201d Hoss quipped.<\/p>\n

Ben and Joe chortled like schoolboys at Hoss\u2019 remark, but Adam chose to ignore it. He casually saluted his family with a devilish grin and walked out the front door.<\/p>\n

+++++<\/p>\n

Over the next several months, Faith became part of the family. Ben and the boys grew to love her like a daughter and a sister. Adam spent most of his time with her. Their days were filled with picnics and walks and getting to know one another. They planned their future. They talked about their children and growing old together. Adam had never felt such happiness. He felt as if his life was now complete. Their wedding would be filled with love and flowers and a feast of the best money could buy.<\/p>\n

Ben too, was delighted over the impending nuptials. He was overjoyed that one of his boy\u2019s had finally decided to take the plunge and he couldn\u2019t be more pleased with Adam\u2019s choice. The prospect of grandchildren was eagerly anticipated. Finally, one of his boys would be leaving the nest and building one of his own. He gave Adam and Faith five hundred acres of prime land for them to settle on.<\/p>\n

When Adam returned home every night he\u2019d rushed through his supper then retired to his room where he\u2019d work on the drawings for their new home. It would be magnificent in scale and design. Adam was in his element. He\u2019d been reborn and it agreed with him.
\nPART THREE<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Adam Cartwight.\u201d She said softly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you too Faith.\u201d Adam replied. \u201cYou make me happy. You\u2019re the most beautiful woman in the world and you\u2019re mine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, don\u2019t you forget it.\u201d Faith teased as he gave her horse a swift kick and galloped across a field of wild flowers.<\/p>\n

Adam gave chase and caught up to her, grabbing her around her waist and slowing her horse to a stop.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t get away.\u201d Adam joked. \u201cSo, don\u2019t even try.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing will separate us Adam. Nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on. Let\u2019s go back to the house and I\u2019ll show you my drawings of the house.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes. I\u2019d love to.\u201d<\/p>\n

The pair cantered side-by-side back to the ranch and bedded down their horses. As they exited the barn, Adam playfully picked up Faith and carried her around behind the barn. He propped her up against the wall and gazed into her emerald green eyes. Her lips glistened as she looked back at him, seemingly into his soul. Adam placed both hands on Faith\u2019s waist and pulled her hips against his and kissed her passionately. She moaned with pleasure and stroked his sable hair. The sun warmed their bodies and they both thought they\u2019d transcended earth. Then, they were startled by the sound of gunshots.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe.\u201d Adam hissed. \u201cIf I\u2019ve told him once, I\u2019ve told him a thousand times!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam left Faith\u2019s side to go straighten out his brother and she followed. More rounds echoed and as Adam and Faith came out from behind the barn a single shot rang out. Faith fell to the ground silently. Joe dropped his gun and stood still with horror. Adam was unaware of what had just occurred and started to chastise his brother. But, when he saw the shock on Joe\u2019s face he turned back to see why.<\/p>\n

\u201cFAITH!\u201d Adam screamed with terror. \u201cFAITH\u2026 FAITH!!\u201d
\nPART FOUR<\/p>\n

Faith\u2019s funeral was heart wrenching. Adam was inconsolable and hadn\u2019t spoken since the day of her death. Joe was so riddled with guilt it was difficult to face his family or Faith\u2019s parents to apologize. Apologies just didn\u2019t seem to be enough. He too, fell into a chasm of silence.<\/p>\n

As for dealing with Adam, it was something Joe couldn\u2019t even imagine possible. Their relationship had always been contemptuous even though they loved one another more than life itself. They\u2019d fought bitterly about issues from the Civil War to conflicts over women to struggles between right and wrong. But, this\u2026 this would end it all. That\u2019s how Joe felt. He felt as if he\u2019d lost everything \u2013 that the Cartwright\u2019s bond had been shattered into pieces.<\/p>\n

Ben suffered over the loss of Faith. He bled for both his boys and felt helpless. He had to be strong for Adam and sympathetic to Joseph. But, how could he mend wounds so deep they might see the demise of what he loved most \u2013 his sons.<\/p>\n

After the service the Cartwright\u2019s returned home. Adam rode along side the buggy driven by Ben with Hoss next to him and Joe in the back. All four stared into space. All of them unable to come to terms with the tragedy. All of them filled with emptiness.<\/p>\n

When they arrived at the ranch, Hoss, Ben and Joe watched Adam take Sport into the barn. They waited for him and when he finally walked towards the house, his face etched with anguish, Joe stepped forward to speak.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d He said barely audible.<\/p>\n

But Adam did not stop. He walked passed his family and into the house without any sign of recognition. Ben placed his hand and Joe\u2019s shoulder to try to console him. He burst into tears and turned to embrace his father. Hoss lowered his head, trying to hide his pain.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt will be alright Joseph. Adam is strong. We are strong.\u201d He said firmly.<\/p>\n

The threesome turned and linked together as one and followed Adam into the house.
\nPART FIVE<\/p>\n

Adam retreated to his room. For several days, the Ponderosa fell under a shroud of darkness. Sadness filled every corner of the house that usually bustled with activity and camaraderie. Ben, Hoss and Joe seemed to meander around the place like phantoms. Conversation was non-existent, as no one knew what to say. Hop Sing tried to get them to eat but his meals were only picked at. He\u2019d leave a plate outside Adam\u2019s door but each time he did he ended up collecting the dish untouched.<\/p>\n

Ben feared that life as he knew it might be over \u2013 that his family had been irreparably torn apart by a tragic accident. But, his biggest concern was for Adam who had not yet shed a tear. He\u2019d pent up his emotions and that, Ben worried, was a dangerous thing. He knew Adam was not only grieving over Faith and the loss of his future, but was also filled with anger \u2013 anger towards Joe.<\/p>\n

When the third day passed, the time came for Ben to try and talk to Adam. He wasn\u2019t sure what he was going to say or what he would find when he entered Adam\u2019s room. It frightened him. Anxiously, he climbed the stairs and walked slowly down the upper hallway. He tapped on Adam\u2019s bedroom door. There was no answer so Ben quietly turned the knob and opened the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d He said gently.<\/p>\n

The only sound was the creaking of the door as Ben entered the darkened room. Adam\u2019s architectural drawings were strewn across the floor, several were ripped to shreds.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon? I\u2019d like to talk to you. May I come in?\u201d<\/p>\n

Again, there was no response.<\/p>\n

When Ben finally saw his son, his eye\u2019s flooded. His throat tightened with the pain of heartache. It felt like he was being choked with sorrow. He wanted so desperately to comfort Adam but was unsure if he\u2019d be received.<\/p>\n

Adam lay on the far side of his bed in the fetal position. His back was to the door. He rocked slowly back and forth as if trying to sedate himself. He was still wearing his Sunday suit and still had on his boots. His eyes stared out the window with a blankness that sent a shiver of cold down the back of Ben\u2019s neck. He moved around the bed and sat on its edge and tentatively placed his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder. He paused briefly before he spoke, searching for the right words.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know what you\u2019re feeling son.\u201d Ben\u2019s resonant voice wafted over Adam\u2019s body like a blanket. \u201cI\u2019ve been there. Oh, I\u2019ve been there several times. And, I know it\u2019s the darkest place you\u2019ve ever been.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s expression was stonelike. His father\u2019s words seemed to hover over his head \u2013 like he was incapable of comprehension.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I was about your age,\u201d Ben continued thoughtfully, \u201cMarie died and I thought I would not survive. But, I had you boys to take care of. I had to continue on for you and Hoss and Joe, but also for me. No, it wasn\u2019t easy\u2026 it was very, very difficult and it took a long time. A long, long time. You\u2019ve got to start another life Adam, a life without Faith. It won\u2019t be easy for you either\u2026 but, you\u2019ve got to be strong. Your brother\u2019s and I will be there for you. We love you. We want to help you. Let us help you boy.\u201d Ben implored.<\/p>\n

Adam continued to rock rhythmically.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know you\u2019re angry. Joseph is so, so sorry. He needs your forgiveness Adam. You have to find it in your heart to forgive you\u2019re brother\u2026 or I\u2019m afraid\u2026 well, I\u2019m afraid for both of you, for us. Please son. Please come downstairs and talk to your brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben received no answer or even any sign of recognition. He tried to find some way to penetrate Adam\u2019s wall of bereavement.<\/p>\n

\u201cRemember when you were fourteen. Joe was just a little fellow. Just walking. You took him to the lake. It was just you and him. Oh, he loved you so much. He worshipped you, remember? You couldn\u2019t go anywhere without him trying to tag along beside you like a puppy. Whenever you left him behind, he\u2019d cry. He\u2019d cry so hard until you came home from school. You found it annoying,\u201d Ben chuckled, \u201cyou were almost a man and had your own friends and things you wanted to do without a baby around. But, you indulged him. And, you took him to the lake to teach him to swim. But, you turned your back for just a moment and Joe fell in and you jumped in after him with all of your clothes on. Do you remember that day Adam? Do you remember how it felt? Do you remember your brother\u2019s screams for help \u2013 the panic you both experienced? Well, he\u2019s reaching out to you now Adam\u2026 to save him. Only you can save him. Please Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam only responded with the slow blinking of his hazel eyes. He was not ready and Ben realized it. So, he firmly gripped Adam\u2019s arm and then rubbed his back strongly. He had to turn away to regain control and then rose slowly from the bed feeling more helpless than he did when he\u2019d first arrived. He pulled himself away from Adam\u2019s side and returned to the living room where Joe and Hoss waited hopefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow is he Pa?\u201d Hoss asked with concern.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s going to be alright.\u201d Ben tried to sound upbeat, but the boys knew things were not all right at all.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I should leave.\u201d Joe said shyly. \u201cMaybe if I go away, Adam can\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph. I will not stand for that kind of talk.\u201d Ben commanded. \u201cWe\u2019ve been through tragedy before and we will overcome it like we always have\u2026 as a family. Understood?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir.\u201d Joe replied with a tearful sniff. He bowed his head shamefully.<\/p>\n

Then, Adam appeared at the top of the landing and descended the stairs. He\u2019d changed into his familiar black shirt and pants. Ben, Hoss and Joe were taken off guard when they saw him. They all stood, ready to give support if necessary. But, Adam walked by them toward the front door. No eye contact exchanged between them.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you going son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTown.\u201d Adam said vacantly.<\/p>\n

He placed his hat on his head and left.<\/p>\n

++++++++<\/p>\n

One week turned into three and Adam never returned. Ben ordered Hoss and Joe to stay on the ranch to give their older brother some space, convinced that eventually Adam would come home and begin the healing process.<\/p>\n

The boys worked laboriously to not only take up the slack that Adam\u2019s absence had left, but to preoccupy their minds. When they returned home for supper, not much was said and they\u2019d retire to bed with forced \u201cgood nights\u201d.<\/p>\n

One evening as the threesome sat somberly drinking there evening coffee, there was a knock on the front door. Hoss went to get it and welcomed Sheriff Coffee into the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cRoy. It\u2019s nice to see you. What brings you out at this hour?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy Ben\u2026 boys.\u201d Roy took off his hat and took a seat on the settee. \u201cWell, I hate to be the bearer of bad news but\u2026 well, it\u2019s Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? Is he alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. No Ben, he isn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened? Is he hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe ain\u2019t the boy I\u2019ve known all his life Ben. He\u2019s been fighting and gambling and drinking pretty hard. I\u2019ve had to put in the drunk tank more than once in the last couple of weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sighed with worry and frustration.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know he\u2019s hurtin\u2019 over Faith\u2019s death.\u201d Roy continued. \u201cYou and me have been there. I know it\u2019s hard to get over the loss of a loved one. When Mary died, I almost died along with her. I guess a part of me truly did. But, if you don\u2019t come fetch Adam, and I mean soon\u2026 well, he\u2019s just going to fall deeper and deeper until nobody will be able to dig him out.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Yes your right Roy. I thought if I let him be\u2026 well, whatever I thought I was wrong. I\u2019ve been remiss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo need Roy. Thank you for your patience. I\u2019ll get Adam home. I appreciate you taking the time to come out here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell you know how I feel about you and your boys. And, I know Adam as well as any of you and he just ain\u2019t right. He needs you.\u201d<\/p>\n

All Ben could do was nod. He escorted Roy to the door and wished him a good night and thanked him once again. He came back into the house and approached Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet into town and bring him home.\u201d He demanded.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if he don\u2019t want to come Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care if he wants to or not. This is where he belongs. You get him here any way you can. Even if you have to hog tie him, just get him here.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

With his mission appointed Hoss confidently left the house to rescue his brother. He\u2019d wanted to so many times the last several weeks but respected his father\u2019s wishes. He tacked up Chubb and rode into town.
\nPART SIX<\/p>\n

Hoss arrived in Virginia City in the wee hours of the morning. He knew Adam\u2019s favorite haunt was the Saserack and it would be his first stop. Hoss glanced into the bar over the top of the swinging half doors. He didn\u2019t see Adam but entered anyway to ask if anyone had.<\/p>\n

\u201cL\u2019o Sam.\u201d Hoss greeted. \u201cYou seen my brother Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you\u2019re here. He\u2019s in the back room and I can\u2019t seem to get rid of him. He\u2019s really tied one on the last couple of weeks. He\u2019s taking Faith\u2019s death pretty hard huh.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah.\u201d Hoss said simply, not wanting to discuss family issues in public.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s been real ornery too. Couple times I\u2019ve had to call the sheriff.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d Again Hoss replied sparsely. \u201cThanks Sam.\u201d<\/p>\n

He walked to the back room where a poker game was in full swing. The room was tiny. It was just a cubbyhole really with a red velvet drape to separate it from the rest of the saloon. Smoke billowed out as Hoss pulled the curtain back to expose his brother and opposite him, two drifters. A number of bottles littered the table.<\/p>\n

Adam was bleary eyed and had a saloon girl at each elbow. He was beyond drunk \u2013 barely conscious. His head sagged between his shoulders and bobbed forward as he struggled to stay awake. His eyes were half closed and black as coal. His clothes were filthy and he stunk of whiskey and cigars. His knuckles were bloody from fighting and he\u2019d grown a thick, dark beard. The sight of his brother almost made Hoss weep. He\u2019d never seen him in such depths of misery and it upset him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d Hoss said strongly, after taking a few seconds to get his emotions in check.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026 look everybody it\u2019s my brother Hoss.\u201d Adam slurred. \u201cCome on, come on\u2026\u201d He waved sloppily, \u201cjoin the game. Si\u2019down, come on si\u2019down. Girls make way for my little brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo thanks. Come on now, let\u2019s get you home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026 no. I\u2019m not going home. The games go\u2019in good. I\u2019m winning. Come on Hoss, come and si\u2019down. Have a drink and set a spell.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you\u2019re coming home with me and you\u2019re coming right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss.\u201d Adam smiled with inebriation. \u201cI\u2019m staying right here and there\u2019s nothing you can do about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t make me come over there Adam. Pa wants you home and he sent me here to git\u2019ya and I ain\u2019t leav\u2019in without\u2019cha.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you\u2019re going to have to because\u2026I\u2019m staying right where I am, right girls?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh no you ain\u2019t.\u201d Hoss insisted.<\/p>\n

He moved toward Adam and grasped his forearm like a vice. But, Adam pulled away and stood, something that surprised everyone \u2013 including the two other cowboys at the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam. I don\u2019t want to hurt you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLeave me alone Hoss\u2026 I\u2019m, I\u2019m warning you.\u201d Adam said as he concentrated on keeping balance. His sudden bolt, made his head swim and he blinked rapidly to try and focus on the looming figure of Hoss Cartwright coming at him.<\/p>\n

Hoss gently pushed the saloon girls to the side and they scampered away for fear of the immanent fracas. Adam was cornered. He placed one hand on each wall to stop the room from spinning and bent his knees to steady himself. His head flopped forward and he struggled to look up. His glare was cold and hateful.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t come any closer.\u201d He cautioned. \u201cDon\u2019t do it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss held out his hand like he was greeting a strange dog. Adam held his ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Adam. I\u2019m just trying to help ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI DON\u2019T WANT YOUR HELP!\u201d He shouted vehemently.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have any choice, older brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss took Adam\u2019s arm gingerly and flung it over his shoulder all the while readying himself for a fight. But, with the touch of his brother\u2019s support, Adam finally broke down and crumpled to the ground in a heap of despair. On his knees, he held his face with both hands as streams of tears spilled onto the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d Adam whimpered; his face disfigured with grief. \u201cWhy\u2026 why Hoss? Oh God\u2026 why?\u201d Adam cried.<\/p>\n

Hoss crouched down and hugged Adam as tightly as he could subliminally trying to keep him in one piece. Wails of pain oozed from Adam\u2019s every pour. He sounded like an animal caught in a trap. It made Hoss\u2019 stomach tighten with torment. Adam then passed out and fell limp against his brother\u2019s broad chest. It was as if his body turned to liquid. Hoss picked him up with one fluid motion and threw him over his shoulder like a bag of grain. He carried him out of the saloon as the patrons and saloon girls watched in silence. Hoss took Adam home.<\/p>\n

++++++<\/p>\n

The sun swelled over the peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, spreading a calming veil of cobalt blue over the valley below. Ben and Joe had not gone to bed, but rather waited for Hoss to return with Adam. Joe paced until his father stopped him and guided him to the chesterfield. Finally, the muffled sound of hooves distracted them and they raced out to see if, in fact, Hoss was successful.<\/p>\n

He\u2019d place Adam in his saddle and sat on Chubb\u2019s rump to support him like an armchair. He held onto his brother, surrounding him with his bulk, as he guided his horse to the hitching post just outside the front door.<\/p>\n

Both Joe and Ben caught Adam, as he seemed to drip off the horse into their waiting arms. He was still unconscious and Hoss dismounted and came round to help get Adam\u2019s dead weight into the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me take\u2019em.\u201d Hoss said, taking charge of the situation to the end. \u201cI\u2019ll take\u2019em.\u201d He assured.<\/p>\n

He cupped one arm under Adam\u2019s shoulder blades and the other under his knees. With eyes tightly closed, Adam rested his head on his little brother\u2019s shoulder like a small child in his mother\u2019s comforting embrace. Joe was shocked at Adam\u2019s appearance and glanced at his father to see if his reaction was the same. It was.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright Joe. He\u2019s home now.\u201d Ben affirmed to his son as he squeezed the back of Joe\u2019s neck for moral support. \u201cAdam is going to be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

But Joe wasn\u2019t so sure. What he did know was that when Adam opened his eyes, Joe would be there. Then he could apologize and beg for his brother\u2019s forgiveness. Only, then could Joe prove his remorse and regain Adam\u2019s faith. Only then, could Joe and Adam heal.<\/p>\n

++++<\/p>\n

Hoss laid Adam on his bed. Ben and Joe followed them upstairs and entered the room right behind them. Hoss began to take off Adam\u2019s boots.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll do that.\u201d Joe said quietly.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked up at his father to see if that was all right and Ben nodded. He knew Joe needed to tend to Adam, even if Adam was oblivious to his attention. Hoss stepped aside and let Little Joe take over.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s alright with you Pa, I\u2019d like to take care of Adam.\u201d Joe asked.
\n\u201cFine son. You take the first shift and I\u2019ll relieve you later on.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I\u2019m going to take care of him until he\u2019s well. It\u2019s the only way Pa. Please let me take care of this\u2026please.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked into Joseph\u2019s eyes and saw his desperate need to make amends. At this point, it was the only way he knew how. Their eyes locked and without a word being spoken, Ben gave Joe full ward over Adam. He placed his broad hand squarely on Hoss\u2019 back and steered him into the hallway. Ben peered back at Joe with a sympathetic smile and then closed the door.<\/p>\n

Joe then turned his attention back to Adam and continued to take off his boots and the rest of his dirty clothes. He washed him and shaved him and placed him securely under the covers. Adam was running a fever and mumbled an incoherent conversation with himself about Hoss being lost of all things. Then to his astonishment, Adam called for Marie \u2013 Joe\u2019s mother.<\/p>\n

\u201cHelp me. Marie, Ma?\u201d He sighed. \u201cMa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here Adam.\u201d Joe assured as he placed a cloth on Adam\u2019s forehead. \u201cYou\u2019re gonna be just fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMarie? Don\u2019t go. Where are you going? Marie? Ma\u2026 Ma?\u201d<\/p>\n

Only then did Joe realize what his mother meant to Adam. He\u2019d never considered it before. He never considered that Adam loved his mother. He\u2019d always just thought about himself and how Marie\u2019s death affected his life. He never realized what affect it had on Adam or even Hoss for that matter \u2013 they were only young boys after all. They never talked about it. But, it was probably worse for Adam.
\nHow had he dealt with the death of three mothers? How has he coped, Joe pondered. No one every seemed to worry about how he was dealing with their deaths. Everyone just assumed Adam could handle it. But, now, after what had happened to Faith, it was just too much for Adam to bear. Finally, after twenty years of lost love ones, Adam could bear no more. He just couldn\u2019t muster one more brave face.
\nAdam had not only lost his own mother, but Inga \u2013 Hoss\u2019 mother and then Marie as well. He loved them all and they all abandoned him. And now, Adam was without Faith. He\u2019d lost her too. The more Joe thought about it the more upset he became. Joe\u2019s stomach churned with nausea and he began to cry. He rested his arms on the edge of Adam\u2019s bed and lowered his head onto them.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam. I\u2019m so sorry\u2026 for everything\u201d Joe murmured. \u201cPlease forgive me. Forgive me Adam.\u201d
\nEPILOGUE<\/p>\n

When Adam finally awoke two days later, his body quaked with withdrawal. The alcohol he\u2019d pumped into his veins was now holding him hostage in a world of pain.<\/p>\n

But, Joe saw him through it and when he\u2019d regained his strength, Adam lashed out at his little brother \u2013 even coming to blows. Ben and Hoss could hear the combat through the house but never interfered. They wanted to, but knew it would prevent Joe and Adam\u2019s atonement. They stayed clear and let nature take it\u2019s course. They just prayed that nature would shine understanding upon them.<\/p>\n

Joe confided in Adam, telling him that he\u2019d never considered his older brother\u2019s feelings about anything \u2013 not the death of Ben\u2019s wives or Adam\u2019s interference in Joe\u2019s life for his own good or his concerns over Joe\u2019s reckless target shooting. That he\u2019d been selfish his whole life and he promised to change. He apologized over and over until Adam heard him. He apologized until Adam forgave him.<\/p>\n

When the pair finally released themselves from the prison of Adam\u2019s room, things were still edgy but they were on the road to recovery. No, life would never be the same for either brother but it was a start \u2013 a new start. They now had more than they had every had before \u2013 faith in each other\u2019s undying love \u2013 faith in overcoming the worst of tragedies and faith the power of forgiveness.<\/p>\n

THE END<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0Adam finally meets his wife to be, but before the wedding a tragedy occurs that almost tears the Cartwrights apart for good.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T (5,885 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":113,"featured_media":14538,"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":[],"class_list":["post-3672","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1519,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Rainbow.jpeg?fit=275%2C183&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12499,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12499","url_meta":{"origin":3672,"position":0},"title":"One Long Night (by Tauna Petit-Strawn)","author":"Tauna Petit-Strawn","date":"March 11, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Short shots involving Ben and Joan's daughter, Faith, with various members of the family. 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