P<\/strong>resent)<\/p>\n\u201cAh Adam, ya didn\u2019t really tell him he was a disappointment to Pa? You don\u2019t really think that do ya?\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam sighed and let one of his hands run through his raven hair. then slowly with a grunt of aggravation he stood to his feet. \u201cOf course, I didn\u2019t mean it. Qhat kind of question is that? It slipped out Hoss, I was upset with him.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam I didn\u2019t mean nuttin\u2019 by it. I was just surprised ya said it\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI need some air.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss watched as his brother walked hastily to the front door without so much as looking back, he exited the door, closing it a little louder than necessary.<\/p>\n
Footsteps on the stairs echoed throughout the silence of the house.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHello Doc,\u201d\u00a0Hoss acknowledged looking at Paul who made his way over to the large young man.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhere\u2019s Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s sitting upstairs with your brother for a spell. Hop Sing said he\u2019d be down in a moment to fix lunch for you boys.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t reckon I feel much like eaten Doc, my insides are all tangled up.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019ve never not been hungry a day in in your life Hoss. When Hop Sing comes down you, as will the rest of your family, will eat something. I don\u2019t want to come back to a house full of sick Cartwrights you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSure Doc, but you not staying?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo Hoss I\u2019ve done all I can for now. He\u2019s not getting worse, and I\u2019ve given him a sedative to help him sleep. If he\u2019s in any pain, I left some laudanum on the side table just in case.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss nodded his understanding as Paul picked up his hat and headed for the door. Martin stopped as he was pulling the door closed and looked back at the middle Cartwright.<\/p>\n
\u201cCall me if there is any change, and remember Hoss, he\u2019s a strong boy, and he\u2019s got the good Lord on his side.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss let a smile cross his face,\u00a0\u201cI know Doc, Thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAnytime Hoss, anytime.\u201d\u00a0the door closed and Paul Martin walked slowly across the yard towards his buggy. He caught glimpse of a figure clad in black sitting on one of the banisters on the far side of the porch. A sigh escaped his lips as he shook his head. Words of comfort can be easily given to the younger Cartwright boys, but nothing he could say could help Ben\u2019s eldest when those deep brooding features were set in the dark mask they were in at the moment.<\/p>\n
The Cartwrights were a close woven family, who had known many sorrows in they\u2019re lives. Paul made a silent prayer to God that they would not come to know the sorrow of losing a brother or a son.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Darkness dominated the windowless room, the only light emitted from the flame atop an almost completely melted candle. Shadows danced off the walls indicating the presence of several men, all of which but one where surrounding the center table, cards and whiskey glasses spread around piles of bills and coins. One figure stood out the most, standing tall, with broad shoulders in the back corner of the room. His features were covered by shadows showing only his unshaven jaw; a half-burned cigar lay between his lips surrounding him with a thick dense smoke. Across the room the only door leading into the small shack quickly slammed shut. Cheers and sarcastic remarks greeted the new comer who had just entered.<\/p>\n
\u201cHey Johnny, we was beginning ta think you wasn\u2019t comin\u2019 back.\u201d<\/p>\n
The stranger smirked pulling of his hat tossing it carelessly to the side thus revealing his handsome but roguish features.\u00a0\u201cI\u2019m sure you were,\u201d\u00a0he replied sarcastically eying the drunk and dirty men laughing at nothing in particular, his gaze shifted when his eyes caught movement. Out of the shadows the man that had stood alone walked casually across the floor, taking a moment to pull the stump out his mouth before speaking,\u00a0\u201cI assume all went as planned?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou assumed correctly Bull, the kid\u2019s dead.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDid you check the body?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cCouldn\u2019t. The horses spooked, probably drug that wagon half way to California.\u201d\u00a0Johnny noted the scowl on the older man\u2019s features and he smiled,\u00a0\u201cBy your expression I\u2019d say you have doubts?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t want no Sheriff knockin\u2019 down my door; just cause you assumed Cartwright was dead!\u201d\u00a0Bull shouted throwing his cigar to the ground crushing it in frustration with the sturdy toe of his boot.<\/p>\n
Johnny\u2019s eyes flared, drawing his gun he fired one shot off spinning the gun several times, and then holstering it before any one of the men so much as blinked.<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t miss!\u201d\u00a0He spat with venom.<\/p>\n
Bull smiled as he starred at the shocked man on the floor cards scattered around him one laid face-up on his chest an ace with a hole clean through the center spade.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou crazy son of…I…I oughta tare you apart\u201d\u00a0Shorty hollered, quickly trying to stumble to his feet, anger clearly marking his features. The rage was soon forgotten, his skin paling to a ghostly white as soon as he found himself staring down the barrel of his leaders colt. Quietly he slid back, picking up his fallen chair, and sat down.\u00a0\u201cDeal me another hand will ya Jeb,\u201d\u00a0he spoke nervously.<\/p>\n
Bull lowered his gun\u00a0,\u201cSo young Cartwright’s dead?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDead and silent as a grave, I had as clear a shot as man could wish for, right through the head, no chances.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, I believe this calls for a little celebration. Otis, get the men mounted up we\u2019re going to town.\u201d<\/p>\n
Whoops and hollers sounded from the gang as they tossed the cards aside and began grabbing their coats and hats. Noisily stumbling out the door several careless shots fired, the loud cracks echoing in the wind.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Hoss\u2019 fork scratched noisily across his plate, pushing the food into different piles. His brows furrowed in frustration as he tried unsuccessfully to figure out how his little brother was able to make it look as if he had eaten his share, though he hadn\u2019t really touched his food. This technique had been used to fool his father and older brother on several occasions Little Joe had named, but all he had managed to do was mix the food into an unrecognizable mush.\u00a0\u201cDadburnit,\u201d\u00a0he muttered tossing his fork to the table in defeat.<\/p>\n
Hoss\u2019 outburst gained him two sets of questioning eyes causing him to slink down into his chair, in a futile attempt to fade away. Adam\u2019s right eyebrow took on its regular arched tilt that manifests itself when the young man was either curious or waiting impatiently for an excuse from his little brother after some failed scheme.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat exactly was that all about son?\u201d\u00a0His father asked worriedly.<\/p>\n
\u201cAh, it weren’t nothin\u2019 Pa. I was just mad at my foods all.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben eyed the conglomeration that lay in front of his son, while Adam tried to hide an amused smile behind his hand at his brother\u2019s last statement. Hoss frowned at Adam, but then saw amusement in the words he knew were only fully understood by himself.<\/p>\n
\u201cI guess that didn\u2019t sound right did it Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo son, I don\u2019t think it did.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s just…My insides are all tied up and food looks down right awful ta me. I\u2019ve been trying ta do that thing Joe does with his food, ya know, spreadin\u2019 it about making it look as if it was half eaten so he don\u2019t half ta eat when he don\u2019t want to?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOh, I didn\u2019t know my son possessed such an ability,\u201d\u00a0Ben said enlightened<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, I do believe we\u2019ll have to remember that one for later Pa,\u201d\u00a0Adam added trying none to successfully to hide a laugh at the expression Hoss had acquired upon registering the fact that he had given out too much information.\u00a0\u201cAh Adam ya better not say I told, Little Joe\u2019d have my hide fur sure.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben couldn\u2019t stifle his booming laugh any longer as he watched his middle son continue to plead with his elder brother.<\/p>\n
Adam raised his hands in defeat,\u00a0\u201cMums the word dear brother,\u201d\u00a0he replied pursing his lips together firmly to emphasize his vow of silence. Hoss grinned, visibly showing his relief.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Hop sing reached down to grasp the sheets and quilt that lay in a crumpled heap at the foot of the bed; tossed there by the young man thrashing about on the mattress. Raising them up, he pulled them back over the boy. The frown that had been ever present on his features all morning deepened noticeably at the sight of the quickly accumulating beads of sweat upon the fevered brow. Working quickly, Hop Sing retrieved the small rag that had been soaking in the bedside basin and wiped it gently across Joes pasty skin, letting the heated perspiration be replaced by cool water. Joe groaned as he turned his head away, his whole body trembled, and he kicked to get the unwanted covers off his body again.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s…It\u2019s hot it\u2019s…\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo speak little Joe,\u201d\u00a0Hop Sing whispered, gripping the dampening fabric and holding it in his place with one hand as the other tried futilely to hold in place and stroke the tossing head. The boy moaned deeper and louder, reaching out blindly, grasping at the Chinaman\u2019s hand to make it release the hold it had on his twisting body. Joe cried out as his vain movements caused him more pain. His dark eyelashes fluttered open, slowly revealing his glazed green depths.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa…Pa…\u201d\u00a0He called out hoarsely pushing himself upwards.<\/p>\n
Gently the small cook moved his fingers up and gripped the shoulders of the young boy, carefully, but firmly, he pressed him down into the mattress. Murmurs of Cantonese slipped through his lips as he tried to comfort Little Joe in his native tongue.<\/p>\n
Hop Sing rose up casting a worried look at the youngest son before moving swiftly towards the door.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
The pounding on the front door echoed loudly off the walls, bringing the three men out of their slow coming conversation around the dining table. Ben tossed a look at both his sons, arching both eyebrows in curiosity.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll get it Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo son, let me,\u201d\u00a0Ben said wiping the corners of his mouth with his napkin before rising slowly, and walking across to the door in time to open it and seeing Charlie Mills fist raised ready to knock again.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sorry to bother ya Mr. Cartwright. Hank sent me down to fetch the new shoring. We\u2019re at a standstill, we, we can\u2019t go no further without it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben\u2019s expression fell grim and this did not go unnoticed by the young ranch hand\u2019s keen eyes. Glancing over across his boss\u2019 shoulder he could see that the Cartwright sons mirrored the expression.<\/p>\n
\u201cDid I say something wrong Mr. Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo Charlie you\u2018re fine. Would you come in please,\u201d\u00a0he quickly replied, noticing the man\u2019s worried look.<\/p>\n
The cowhand lifted his dusty hat from atop his sweaty brow and quietly entered hoping soon for understanding. He followed Ben who walked quickly over to the large desk positioned in the center of the study and watched the older man sit down and begin fingering through some of the files in the bottom drawer.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat are you looking for Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam do you know where I put the extra copy of yesterday\u2019s supply list?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI thought you hadn\u2019t filed it yet, remember you placed it in the papers by the ledger?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, yes of course. I remember now,\u201d as soon as his fingers gripped the sheet of paper he stood and walked over towards the others, his eyes scanning the list. A frustrated sigh escaped his lips, and he dropped the hand holding the parchment hopelessly to his side.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe extra shoring is on the list isn\u2019t it Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes Hoss it is, and I know it\u2019s a lot to ask in these circumstances, but I\u2019m going to need you boys to go in town. Hopefully Walt will still have some stored in the back of the store.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss nodded taking the list from his father\u00a0\u201cAre ya sure you don\u2019t need one of us to stay?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, the two of you can get into town and back a lot quicker this way.\u201d<\/p>\n
Charlie stood back; still oblivious to what was going on but could tell something was amiss. His fingers began to fumble with the brim of his hat; it wasn\u2019t until a hand touched his shoulder that he noticed he was being talked to.<\/p>\n
\u201cCharlie, take this to Hank, it explains everything I need him to do.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes Sir,\u201d\u00a0Charlie nodded taking the note from his boss\u2019 hand quietly walking back towards the door where he was being led. He placed his hat firmly upon his head and adjusted the brim slightly to the side. The door was being closed behind him when he reached back blocking the final closing.\u00a0 \u201cMr. Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell I…I\u2019m not the brightest, but I sure do knows when something just ain\u2019t right.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben sighed and did his best to explain in as few sentences as possible the events that had transpired through the morning. The young man grimaced and paled,\u00a0\u201cI…I\u2019m sorry, I didn\u2019t know Mr. Cartwright. I hope Little Joe is all right, he\u2019s a real good friend, not just to me but the other fellers to\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you, Charlie. Tell the men we\u2019ll send word if we hear anything new.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThanks Boss, I know the boys will be glad to hear it.\u201d\u00a0And with those words said, the door closed and the young man mounted and rode at a faster pace than usual eager to tell his friends about the fall of their comrade.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Ben was startled when he heard his name being called from upstairs. He had just watched his eldest sons ride away after bidding them God\u2019s speed.<\/p>\n
\u201cMr. Cartlight, Mr. Cartlight!\u201d<\/p>\n
Hop Sing was on the stairs leaning over the banister.\u00a0\u201cLittle Joe open eyes. He call for you Mista Ben!\u201d<\/p>\n
Though Ben had scolded his sons many times for running in the house, He chose this time to forget his words and was now taking the stairs two at a time.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Hoss breathed a sigh of relief as Virginia City finally came into view. It had been quiet as a grave sense he and his brother had left the house, making the trip drag on slowly; minutes feeling like hours. His eyes took another glance over at the man clad in black sitting or maybe more like slouching in his saddle as the chestnut he rode kept pace with the moving wagon. Several times he had thrown a conversation piece at the older man, just for it to hit him and then fall unnoticed to the ground. The all too familiar sign caught his blue irises causing him to pull back firmly on the reins, quickly bringing the buckboard to a stop in front of the mercantile; he set the brakes and looked around before jumping off. Hoss approached his older brother, slowly watching him as he tied Sport to the nearest hitching post.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam, Hoss, how nice to see you boys.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHowdy Mr. Owens,\u201d\u00a0Hoss acknowledged.\u00a0\u201cMy Pa gave us a list of supplies we need back at the ranch.\u201d\u00a0Hoss pulled the slip of white paper out of his vest pocket handed it over to the older man for him to read. The white mustache that neatly decorated his top lip twitched, and his dark eyebrows furrowed his expression clearly marked with confusion as his eyes traced the items listed.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere must be some kind of mistake Hoss, Little Joe picked up all these things yesterday. I\u2019m sure of it\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss\u2019 swallowed and he dropped his gaze giving himself a moment to gather himself together. The sudden change in atmosphere did not go unnoticed by the storekeeper\u2019s senses, quickly curiosity and, uncertainty filled his deep brown eyes.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss, I have a feeling something\u2019s wrong,\u201d\u00a0he announced while looking intently on the disappearing form of his long time friend\u2019s oldest son.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere is. Ya see there was an accident yesterday, and the supplies never made it home.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNever made it home?\u201d\u00a0A knowing look crossed his face, and he shook his head.\u00a0\u201cHoss don\u2019t tell me, let me guess Little Joe got himself into another spot with your Pa, and by the look of it your brother, too.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt ain\u2019t like that, though about now I wish it was. The wagon done crashed yesterday, busted Little Joe up awful bad.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sorry. I didn\u2019t know. He\u2019s going to be all right, isn\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDon\u2019t know yet. Pa sent us in town to get some more shoring. That new mine operation Pa\u2019s experimenting with is on a complete stand still till it gets there, besides Pa thinks coming to town will take our minds off what\u2019s happening, but to tell ya the truth, it ain\u2019t been helping me one bit.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s perfectly understandable Hoss.\u201d The older man took one more look towards the direction in which Adam had made his exit; then raised his aged hand to pat the broad shoulder of the young man in front of him.\u00a0\u201cTell you what. Why don\u2019t you go catch up with that brother of yours and I\u2019ll have Hank help me load the supplies for you.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYa sure?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou know I am.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThank ya kindly Mr. Owens. I appreciate it, I really do.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNot at all my boy. Your father has done a great deal for me in the past; it does me good to do a few favors here and there. It should only take us about an hour, but if you don\u2019t hurry, you just might lose that brother of yours.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWon\u2019t be no trouble, I kinda figure I know where he\u2019s going.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cVery well then, I\u2019ll go find Hank and get started on this right away.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss nodded his thanks again before heading off into the direction, which his brother had disappeared.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Adam paid little heed to the events unfolding around him. He stood, half-leaned against the far end of the bar, the fingers of his right hand encircled around a half-full beer mug. Once again, the glass lifted off the counter top to touch his lips as it had down several times before. A fist came down firmly on the bar next to him startling him a bit.<\/p>\n
\u201cSam!\u201d\u00a0A familiar voice bellowed,\u00a0\u201cBeer!\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam\u2019s glass lowered slightly revealing the smile behind it,\u00a0\u201cSo I see you\u2019ve found me.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cShucks Adam, it ain\u2019t like it was hard,\u201d\u00a0the big man grinned, propping his elbows onto the counter for support.<\/p>\n
Sam walked over casually placing a full mug in front of his regular customer.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou sure are the last two I\u2019d expect to see in here today.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhy is that?\u201d\u00a0Hoss asked eyeing the large bartender.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s all over town what happened. I\u2019m really sorry about your brother. Ta think I just saw him yesterday.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss eyebrow\u2019s raised\u00a0\u201cYa did? Pa sure woulda been mad if\u2019n he knew. Joe wasn\u2019t supposed ta go no where\u2019s near a saloon yesterday.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, he was here all right.\u00a0 Got the damages to prove it,\u201d\u00a0he sighed, pointing to a place where a couple of tables and chairs were missing.\u00a0\u201cHe and some new fellers in town didn\u2019t see eye to eye. Broke two tables, five chairs, and nine bottles of some of my best liquor.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam frowned disapprovingly at the news, but at the moment considering the circumstances, he didn\u2019t feel the anger that normally would rise up within him.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo, what happened?\u201d\u00a0Hoss inquired, his facial expression clearly holding interest in what Sam was telling him.<\/p>\n
\u201cRoy came in and broke it up, he was just about ta haul the whole lot of them off when Little Joe swore he\u2019d pay me double for everything if I didn\u2019t press charges. You should of seen his face, it looked as if the fear of God was on him, or you might say the fear of your Pa,\u201d\u00a0he laughed, but sobered at Adam\u2019s scowl missing the slight twitching at the corners. Hoss gave a light chuckle and shook his head briefly at the painted picture that was given of his brother\u2019s expression during the events of the night before.<\/p>\n
\u201cThought it wouldn\u2019t hurt to let him off this time, besides I was going to make a profit, too.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDo you know what the brawl was over?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt wasn\u2019t Joe\u2019s fault Adam, incase that\u2019s what you\u2019re thinking. Those new fellers are some bad ones,\u201d\u00a0he said pointing a finger over to two tables across the noisy room. Sam locked eyes with the leader of the men who smirked with a glare, quickly his hand lowered, and he found sudden interest in the small dish rag in front of him. His large fingers began to wipe the glasses off with the cloth, the same glasses that already had been cleaned earlier.<\/p>\n
Slowly the bartender made his way over to a corner and left Hoss puzzled. He looked back to see what had Sam spooked. Approaching was a man who stood two maybe three inches taller than he was. Being a big man at 6\u20194\u201d this made the stranger a good 6\u20196\u201d or 7\u201d Hoss\u2019 elbow nudged Adam who turned half way almost hitting the large stranger that had planted his feet firmly in front of him. He pushed the brim of his hat up just to get a good look at the unknown\u2019s face. What he saw was small gray eyes, set deep giving the man a look halfway between a pig and a grizzly. The dark stumble covering his features helped the impression. He had on a long soiled brown duster that covered most of his wide girth, and a Colt 44-40 tied to the right of his hip, where his hand stayed close by every few moments a crack of another knuckle would sound from the flexing fingers. His very appearance was revolting, not to mention the smell that seemed to hover like thick smog around him.<\/p>\n
\u201cCouldn\u2019t help but over hear about that brother of yours,\u201d\u00a0he said, his eyes\u00a0looked to be sizing them up. Adam for one did not like the man and he knew by his brother\u2019s features Hoss felt the same way.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cJust wanted to offer my sympathies, saw the kid last night, ta real shame he was a real young \u2019UN, he was.\u201d\u00a0No one heard the harrumph Sam gave at the man\u2019s reply.<\/p>\n
Hoss\u2019 face turned red with anger and he poked the man in the chest, \u201cI don\u2019t like ya talking like he\u2019s dead or something he\u2019s gonna be just fine.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell the way people have been talkin\u2019 I thought…\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYa thought wrong!\u201d\u00a0Adam interrupted.<\/p>\n
A flash of disappointment crossed the stranger\u2019s features but was covered instantly before the angry brothers could read the expression. Quickly he backed away, raising his hands in surrender, a phony look of apology on his face.\u00a0\u201cI\u2019m sorry friend, just misunderstood. Rumors seem to get carried away, ya know?\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam nodded, not trusting his voice. Something about the stranger made him on edge.<\/p>\n
The large man turned and started to walk away, his eyes flared red, and a murmured curse passed under his breath but was unseen and unheard as he walked back to his awaiting friends circled around the back tables. No one saw the fear in Johnny\u2019s eyes when they met Bull\u2019s steel glare.<\/p>\n
Adam flipped a few coins on the bar next to the almost untouched beer mugs.\u00a0\u201cLet\u2019s go Hoss. I think I need some fresh air\u201d\u00a0he said gripping his brother\u2019s forearm, leading him out of the saloon and into the bustling streets.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
\u201cWe sure do appreciate the help, Walt; you to Hank.\u201d\u00a0Adam thanked, extending his hand in gratitude, Hoss quickly following his brother\u2019s actions.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo thanks necessary boys, we were glad to do it. I better let you to get a going, I know youre wanting to get home as soon as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe sure do,\u201d\u00a0Hoss smiled.<\/p>\n
Adam untied the reins from the hitching post, then mounted quickly onto Sport.\u00a0 \u201cYou coming Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n
His younger brother grinned and began to pull his big frame up onto the driver\u2019s bench.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam, Hoss! You boys hold up a minute, I wanna talk to ya.\u201d<\/p>\n
Two sets of eyes searched for the origin of the voice, both landed on the older lawman that was quickly scurrying across the street.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowdy Roy\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHello boys, looks like I caught you just before you were heading out. Doc told me what happened and I just was curious if ‘n you had any updated news on that brother of yours.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe don\u2019t know anything that Paul doesn\u2019t already know Roy,\u201d\u00a0Adam replied.<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, I was figurin’ as much. Kinda makes me wish ole Sam woulda pressed charges, I\u2019d sure as rather be sending Clem out to get your Pa then havin’ the boy hurtin’ the way he is right now.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAbout that ruckus last night Roy, who was them fellers that heckled Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDon\u2019t know Hoss. They\u2019re new in town, been here a couple of days, and I don\u2019t like \u2018em one bit neither. They\u2019re trouble that\u2019s what they are, especially that big one that seems ta led \u2018em. What was his name….ah yes his name is Jedidia Bullock, but I heard some of the boys callin\u2019 him Bull. Large man, biggest I seen in a while, reckon he\u2019s a mite taller \u2018n Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n
Recognition dawned across both faces.\u00a0\u201cI think we met him over at the Bucket of Blood.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, you couldn\u2019t miss him, and I advise you steer clear of him.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI plan to, just as long as he stays clear of us,\u201d\u00a0Adam replied sternly.<\/p>\n
Roy didn\u2019t respond, but stood starring down the street,\u00a0\u201cThat rider sure is a coming fast.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll say he\u2019s a coming, you\u2019d think the devil was on his tail with how fast he\u2019s a ridin\u2019,\u201d\u00a0Hoss squinted his trying to focus better.<\/p>\n
\u201cWell it better be dog-goned important,\u201d\u00a0Roy grumbled, taking steps towards the approaching man.<\/p>\n
\u201cHey Adam that looks like Bonner ridin’ on ole Crackerjack.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam followed the animal\u2019s movements, the same ones he recognized from the mare he broke a few weeks prior.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bonner pushed the horse faster only slowing down when he saw Sheriff Coffee motioning him to reduce his speed within the city limits, but it wasn\u2019t till he saw the Cartwrights did he rein in his horse, coming to a quick and abrupt halt.<\/p>\n
\u201cBonner what are you in such a dang-fired hurry for, your gonna run that horse plum to death.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYour Pa sent me, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d\u00a0he panted.\u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s Little Joe he\u2019s in a bad way, I was told to ride as fast as this horse could take me to get the Doc.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam didn\u2019t have to hear anymore before he spurred Sport into a dead run.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam!\u201d\u00a0Hoss shouted.\u00a0\u201cBonner you go on an get Doc\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, sir, Mr.\u00a0Cartwright,\u201d Bonner squeezed his mare\u2019s flank urging it into a rushed yet slower speed. Hoss looked at the fading dust trail his brother had left behind and quickly began to follow, pushing the horses to the fastest speed they could go without passing the limits of safety. Fear and worry were etched on his features as thoughts of his baby brother plagued his mind.<\/p>\n
Roy watched with worry as he was left in the stirred wake of the panicked chaos that hung in the air.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
As soon as his dark eyes caught sight of the scene unfolding before him, Adam felt an icy hand reach out and grip his heart. His father stood clutching the shoulders of his baby brother, holding him firmly to the mattress as Joe\u2019s body violently shook from the tormenting cough that wracked through his chest. The sound echoed throughout the room, and he grimaced at the pain etched in it. In a few strides, his long legs took him from standing paralyzed at the door to hovering over the bed, stroking one hand through his brother\u2019s damp curls. Sensing eyes upon him, he glanced up capturing his father\u2019s gaze which held swirls of emotions, the most dominant being that of worry and fear.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam, thank God you\u2019re here son.\u201d<\/p>\n
The relief Adam heard in the older man\u2019s voice was definitely clear. He could see the weariness on his father\u2019s features, a tale-tale sign of what he had been through the past while. Looking down at the rolling head. Adam\u2019s brows furrowed and he reached over taking his brothers hand.<\/p>\n
\u201cHow long has he been like this?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHis fever spiked just after you and Hoss left. Hop Sing and I have done everything we know how, but he\u2019s getting worse Adam. I just don\u2019t know what to do…I don\u2019t…\u201d\u00a0Ben raised his hand and pinched the bridge of his nose willing the pounding in his head to cease. Adam seeing this came to stand by his father.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa, why don\u2019t you go down and get some coffee, maybe sit a while. Paul should be here soon, I can watch him until then.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, Adam I\u2019m saying here, Joe needs me.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adopting his eyebrow tilt, the younger man\u2019s sienna irises scanned the face of his father.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cEnd of discussion, Adam.\u201d\u00a0Ben snapped. Adam clenched his jaw and kept the remark he wished to make to himself knowing his father didn\u2019t mean to be so on edge, the present situation had just pushed him to his limit.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt least let me help.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben looked into his son\u2019s face and read the expression on his features as only a father could. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sorry son, I had no right to speak to you in that tone…I just\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s alright Pa,\u201d\u00a0Adam breathed understandingly.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo…no it\u2019s not. I think I shall go for that cup of coffee; I believe I need it more than I care to admit.\u201d\u00a0Ben stood to his feet and stretched the creeks out of his tired limbs. Walking up to his eldest he firmly placed his hand upon his shoulder.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll only be gone a moment.\u201d\u00a0Ben smiled reassuringly as he walked out of the room a pair of sienna eyes following him until he disappeared.<\/p>\n
Adam looked back upon his brother\u2019s face and placed a hand upon his cheek softly running his fingers down the young man\u2019s jaw line. Two fever lit eyes fluttered open.<\/p>\n
\u201cHey little buddy\u201d\u00a0Adam whispered trying his best to give a faint smile. Joe\u2019s expression remained blank, his eyes held no recognition of the man that sat beside him. A soft moan escaped his lips, and his eyelashes once again came to rest upon his flushed face. Adam\u2019s eyes filled with unleashed tears as he watched his little brother\u2019s features contort into a mask of pain, the feeling that swept over him was an almost unbearable feeling of helplessness. A chocked sob tore out of his throat and he brought a hand up two his face to cover his eyes while tears cascaded down his unshaven cheeks. Leaning his body over the bed he closed the small gap that lay between him and the sibling he loved. Entwining the fingers of one hand with his brothers he rested his head lightly upon Joe\u2019s chest drawing out comfort from the sound of the soft heartbeat that lay beneath, small droplets still pooling on the linen sheets as he wept.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Ben slowly exited the kitchen, slightly stirring his freshly brewed coffee. Bringing the hot liquid to his lips, he almost choked as the front door burst open startling him. His face went from an expression of surprise to one of relief, his mouth formed into a smile upon seeing his largest son coming towards him.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss good to see you home boy.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss crossed the floor in two of his wide steps and gripped his father shoulders.<\/p>\n
\u201cHow\u2019s Joe Pa? Bonner came flying into town like the devil himself was chasing him. He said ya sent him for the Doc.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, I sent him Hoss. How far behind are they?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cRight behind him Ben. Right behind him,\u201d\u00a0Martin announced walking in carrying his black bag with one hand as the other took the hat from atop his head and placed it upon the rack hanging on the wall.<\/p>\n
\u201cPaul,\u201d\u00a0Ben greeted walking over to grasp the younger man\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n
\u201cGood to see you, Ben. Once again, I wish this was a social call instead of the business at hand. Tell me how young Joseph is fairing?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHis fever spiked a few hours ago that\u2019s why I sent for you. We can\u2019t seem to bring it down.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, let\u2019s see what I can do, shall we?\u201d\u00a0Paul smiled reassuringly as he moved towards the stairs, the older Cartwright right on his heels.<\/p>\n
Hoss was left looking up after the two men the frown on his face deepening before he forced his feet to obey and climb up to the one place he almost feared to go, not sure how he could handle the useless feeling of not being able to help his baby brother.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
A loud crash echoed in the shattered quiet as Johnny came flying through the entrance of the small shack. His body crumbling to the floor in a heap. Turning over, his eyes wide with fright, he started crawling backwards upon his hands, trying as he could to flee from the broad figure coming towards him, fists clinched, knuckles white, eyes burning with anger and murder.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe kid\u2019s dead you said!\u201d\u00a0Bull yelled knocking the nearest chair into a wall destroying it.\u00a0\u201cDead and silent as a grave, a clear shot, straight through the head no chances!\u201d<\/p>\n
Bullock moved forward with extreme speed for a man his size and grasped the collar of the young gunman.<\/p>\n
\u201cI thought… I assumed\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou thought!\u201d\u00a0Bull interrupted\u00a0\u201cYou assumed! You assume too much for your own good!\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sorry, please!\u201d\u00a0Johnny begged pulling away from his bosses vice grip until the feeling of a cold barrel from a colt 44-40 came to rest upon his temple and he froze still, except the fierce tremors that wracked through his body.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou heard what that book learned pansy said, the boy lived. Now what do you think old man Cartwright is gonna do as soon as his spoiled brat wakes up and cries to his Pa about what happened?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI…\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDon\u2019t interrupt me! I\u2019ll tell you what\u2019s going to happen. That whole family and Virginia City\u2019s has-been sheriff are gonna be after blood — mine, yours, and all the yella belly\u2019s hiding on the other side of that door! You better believe me when I tell you that they won\u2019t stop till a noose is around every stinkin\u2019 neck here. I\u2019m tellin\u2019 you right now I ain\u2019t goin\u2019 down like that, not after waitin\u2019 out fourteen years for revenge in that rotten, stinkin\u2019 hellhole of a prison. I ain\u2019t gonna!\u201d\u00a0Bull screamed his eyes wild. The hammer of his gun now cocked ready for his twitching finger to pull the trigger.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can fix it, you\u2019ll see, please! The kid he… he\u2019s in a bad way, ain\u2019t even conscious enough to say nothin\u2019 from what they said. I can finish him, silence the brat before he can squeal to the ole\u2019 man. Please, give me a second chance!\u201d Johnny pleaded, his heart pounding so hard against his chest it was deafening to his ears.<\/p>\n
\u201cA second chance!\u201d\u00a0Bull growled lifting the smaller man off the ground only to stand upon his tip toes.\u00a0\u201cWhy should I trust you?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBecause,\u201d\u00a0Johnny choked.\u00a0\u201cI used to work for Cartwright. I know every square inch of the Ponderosa, from every rock, tree, and shrub, to every room in that house, including the kid\u2019s. I could sneak in undetected, kill him before anyone knew what happened. Right underneath Cartwright\u2019s nose, in the one place they thought they could feel safe and secure.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bull\u2019s lips slowly curled into an evil smirk,\u00a0\u201cI like it,\u201d\u00a0he mused as the hammer of his gun was returned to its rightful position.\u00a0\u201cAlright you got one chance to pull this off, and if you fail, I will kill you with great pleasure.\u201d<\/p>\n
Johnny dropped to the ground, releasing the breath he didn\u2019t even know he had been holding. He raised his hand to wipe away the sweat that covered his brow, relieved to still be alive.<\/p>\n
Bull holstered his gun and placed a fresh cigar in between his teeth, lighting it, enjoying the taste as it filled his lungs. His gray eyes averted to the rest of his men who slowly and cautiously slinked in quietly.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s about time you boy\u2019s came in. Now young Johnny here gots himself an idea to save us all from swingin\u2019. So I suggest ya un tuck your tails from between your legs and listen, because one slipup from any one of ya, and I\u2019ll be sending what\u2019s left of you to your dear ole Mama\u2019s in a pine box!\u201d<\/p>\n
Growing pale the men drew in closer ears alert, and intently listening as a plan was related to them by the stuttering, nervous gunman in front of them.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Joe had awoken suddenly, his body rising quickly, pushing past the hands that held him, with an unseen strength. He sat doubled-over, his arms bound tightly across his chest, letting out a strangled cry as the unstoppable coughing once again plagued him, causing him an insurmountable amount of pain. It was a few more minutes of struggling before Joe lay back upon the mattress, the hacking sound suddenly, eerily silent as though cut off without notice. The young man\u2019s body continued with the motions of the fit, his chest tight, throat convulsing yet no sound came forth.<\/p>\n
Hoss\u2019 eyes grew wide as they caught sight of his brothers\u2019 finger tips and the edges of his pale lips.<\/p>\n
\u201cDoc, what\u2019s happening to him? He\u2019s turning blue!\u201d\u00a0With great alarm, all eyes were upon the man before them.<\/p>\n
\u201cI need you boys out of here, you to Ben. Get Hop Sing up here with some boiled water and hurry, I\u2019m going to have to operate immediately.\u201d\u00a0Paul saw the questioning look in each man\u2019s eyes and answered their unspoken query.\u00a0\u201cI\u2019m sure he\u2019s broken the stitches causing his left lung to collapse. He\u2019s slowly suffocating, now I have no more time to explain.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam had already cleared the door and was headed with full speed towards the kitchen. Hoss, unlike his brother, backed away slowly till the scene before him could no longer be seen by his terror-filled eyes, but Ben Cartwright remained.<\/p>\n
Paul did not scold the man, but simply knew no matter how many times he could tell his friend to leave, nothing could turn this worried father away, so he simply sighed and thought no more of the matter; for time was wasting and very little time is what Joe Cartwright had left.<\/p>\n
The clatter of knives and scissors echoed in Ben\u2019s ears, yet he stayed silent. His son\u2019s pale features became etched upon his eye lids yet still he was without voice. The echoing of a laughter he might never hear again sprung from past memories, and then back in the corner of his youngest sons room he wept. His hands covering his eyes, praying to Father God that he would not take his son this day.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
The grandfather clock struck 7 O\u2019clock and the great room started to dim as the sun faded beyond the horizon. Hoss reached over to the nearest lamp and turned up the burner, unwilling to let the room be swallowed into the darkness. Though the shadows lifted the weight of despairing emotions remained as heavy and strong as they had this long passing day. Hop Sing had rushed passt a few times, but had no words to give them for he was in great haste. It seemed as if the very quiet of the room was a deafening noise in itself clocks ticking, water boiling, fire crackling all sounds that were made known by the stillness in the air. Hoss grunted and stood to his feet taking only a moment to look at his elder brother who had fallen asleep reading his book. Thankful that Adam had finally found some peace, the larger man moved as quietly as his size would allow, and exited the house headed for his friend and confidant of many years, a stocky raven black horse, fitfully named Chubb. Hoss smiled as soon as two dark eyes looked at him and the animal gave a snort of excitement upon the familiar smell of its master reaching its nostrils.<\/p>\n
\u201cHey there Chubb, how ya doin\u2019 girl.\u201d<\/p>\n
Knowing there would be no answer, he just smiled and softly patted the horse\u2019s muzzle. Taking the small bucket off the peg on the wall, Hoss dipped it into a nearby barrel of oats, before pouring it into Chubb\u2019s feeding tray.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s been a long day girl. I\u2019m sorry I didn\u2019t take ya riding today, but I promise will go out when I can.\u201d<\/p>\n
Chubb bobbed her head then began to eat greedily; her ears up and alert, listening to every sound her master made, for his voice brought a calming comfort to the beast. He ran his fingers through the coarse mane while his other hand softly stroked Chubb\u2019s neck, before he gently leaned towards the animal, resting his chestnut locks onto her black hairs. A tune, though not always the right pitch, filled the air as Hoss began to hum. He closed his eyes breathing in the smell of the pines that covered the land he loved so much; finding his comfort, his peace.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Ben stood on weary feet, peering quietly through the large doors of his barn. His eyes were set watching his middle son holding onto his horses neck, softly humming a tune that Ben remembered so very well. A smile touched his lips for it was the sweet tune of a Swedish lullaby, one which had been sung many times by Inger on their journey west. The memories of long ago ceased as the humming stopped and Hoss began to speak to his horse just like he had done for ages, especially though the years of school; when Hoss had struggled with the teasing of other children because of his size.<\/p>\n
\u2018If horses could talk<\/em>,\u2019 Ben thought. \u2018To think of all the stories, spilled emotions that lay locked within the sealed lips of the silent animals be it Chubb, or Cochise, and even Sport, though Adam would never admit to having a one-sided conversation with a four-legged creature<\/em>.\u2019 Ben smiled, slicking back his silver hair with one hand as he quietly made his approach.<\/p>\n\u201c….Ya know what I mean Chubb, how I feel?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI understand how you feel,\u201d\u00a0Ben whispered softly.<\/p>\n
Hoss jumped turning most ungracefully on his heel, eyes wide, \u201cPa I didn\u2019t know you was…I mean how long where you…you\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNot long Hoss, not long.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss turned back to his horse and scratched behind its ear,\u00a0\u201cI just came out to feed her Pa, with all the rush it got late. I\u2019m sure she was just about starved.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sure she was.\u201d<\/p>\n
Questioning blue eyes looked back, locking a gaze with the man behind him, and though afraid to, he spoke,\u00a0\u201cHow\u2019s…how\u2019s Joe Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben erased the distance between them and placed his hand on the boys broad shoulder.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s what I came out here to talk to you about. Paul said he was going to be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss looked deeper into his father\u2019s eyes seeking reassurance,\u00a0\u201cBut Pa, he was so bad off, he was…when we left…\u201d\u00a0Hoss not finding his words trailed off.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet me explain it to you. Paul said when he went back in to repair the damage, he found a piece of debris hiding. It was deeply imbedded, that’s why he missed it this morning. It was causing an infection, that’s why his fever was spiking.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat about pneumonia Pa, he\u2019s still got to fight it?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, he doesn\u2019t Hoss. Paul said that same splinter was positioned where it could irritate the lung, it was hindering his breathing, not pneumonia.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSo he\u2019s gonna be alright then, he… he ain\u2019t gonna die, he\u2019s stayin\u2019… that\u2019s what your sayin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, Hoss that\u2019s what I\u2019m saying.\u201d<\/p>\n
Moving forward, Hoss enveloped his father in a crushing embrace, tears cascading down his face though a smile stretched across his features. Backing away he wiped at the salty drops with his beefy hands.<\/p>\n
\u201cDoes Adam know?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI told him just before I went to find you.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss looked towards the entrance of the barn and Ben took this as a sign to head back to the house taking the lead, he exited the structure his son following directly behind.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
\u201cNow I want you boys to remember he\u2019s still a sick boy, It\u2019s going to take a while for him to heal, but he\u2019s in no danger as long as we keep him still and let his lungs and ribs mend properly.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you, Paul, for everything.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo thanks needed my friend. I\u2019m only sorry I made such a foolish mistake.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was an accident. Most men would have never found it, we were lucky you are not like most men.\u201d<\/p>\n
A smile crossed the doctors face, and he shook his head,\u00a0\u201cI am grateful you all have such strong faith in me\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019ve given us good reason to Doc,\u201d\u00a0Hoss grinned.<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, I\u2019ve given Hop Sing some instructions on the salve to place on little Joe\u2019s abdominal wound and some of the other cuts and scrapes, so I believe I\u2019ll be on my way.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhy not stay here for the night Paul, it\u2019s a long way to Virginia City in the dead of night.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI thank you for the offer Ben, and I\u2019ll accept on one condition.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd that would be?\u201d\u00a0Ben asked with a twinkle in his eyes.<\/p>\n
Paul smiled, \u201cHop Sing makes one of those amazing dinners of his.\u201d<\/p>\n
Laughter rang out and Ben wrapped an arm around his long-time friend.<\/p>\n
\u201cI do believe that can be arranged, besides I think we could all use a good meal.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYa got that right Pa,\u201d\u00a0Hoss chimed in.<\/p>\n
\u201cI thought you weren\u2019t hungry Hoss,\u201d\u00a0Adam said, smiling almost sarcastically.<\/p>\n
Hoss frowned and wrinkled his nose,\u00a0\u201cThat was then, this is now, and right now I\u2019m starved.\u201d\u00a0With his words spoken, he headed out the door, the rest following; only Adam stopped to look back at his baby brother who he promised silently that he would return shortly.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Smoke rose up from the small fire which sat between a circle of unsavory looking men. All eyes rested upon Bull who held in his hands worn and discolored sheets of paper each had the scribbled efforts of maps and different angles of the ranch house.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis here,\u201d\u00a0Johnny pointed.\u00a0\u201cThis here\u2019s the kid\u2019s room, just directly to the side on the east.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat\u2019s this?\u201d\u00a0Bull questioned, fingering the almost unrecognizable scratches.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s our access to the roof.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bull smiled,\u00a0\u201cDo elaborate.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, you see this here is the bunk house, extending off the side, it\u2019s just under Cartwright\u2019s window. Right beside it is a log pile, they keep it stocked by the week, so I will be able to get up and across to the window easy from there.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bull nodded his understanding looking at all the attentive faces around him.\u00a0\u201cYou\u2019ve all heard your positions, so I don\u2019t want any screw ups. Johnny when\u2019s the best time to hit?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe should move out before dawn. Adam\u2019s an early riser, we\u2019ll want to hit before he\u2019s up or after he\u2019s left, if he leaves that is.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat about the oriental?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou mean Hop Sing? He\u2019ll be up, but that\u2019s nothing we can\u2019t handle, he\u2019ll be downstairs, and if he goes out Cal and Otis will be covering the west side, they can take him out if need be.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat about Old man Cartwright and that giant of his?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSee these two rooms?\u201d\u00a0Johnny pointed,\u00a0\u201cThem two are their rooms.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cGood so they\u2019re across the other side.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cB…Boss what if\u2019n one of them fellers is in the room with that brat?\u201d\u00a0Shorty cautiously interrupted.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll deal with that if or when it comes.\u201d\u00a0 Tossing the pages into the fire, Bull smiled, taking a moment to pull his cigar stub out and blow rings of smoke across to mingle with the ash of the camp fire before him.\u00a0\u201cYou boy\u2019s get some sleep we, got a Cartwright to kill come morning\u201d<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Adam weaved his fingers through those of his brother\u2019s, the tips rubbing gently across the clammy skin. With a heavy sigh, he leaned forward in an attempt to relieve the ache in his back; physical proof of the long hours he sat unmoving in his bedside vigil. A smile touched his lips upon hearing the loud thunderous clamor that could only be explained as Hoss\u2019 snoring across the hall. His father laid a sleep a few doors down because Adam had convinced him to rest. The young man\u2019s free palm rubbed at his eyes pushing back the tiredness that fought unmercifully to pull down on the heaviness of his lids. He had given up reading his book retiring it to the bedside stand, nothing Shakespeare or Thoreau had to say interested him at the moment. A yawn escaped his lips and he cast his eyes towards the small clock atop the dresser across the room which read clearly 1:00 am. Groaning inwardly, Adam leaned back in his chair stretching out, hoping to become more comfortable. Feeling at peace he let his lashes rest upon his cheeks and quickly sleep came to him. He never felt the fingers slightly tighten on his hand nor did he see the green orbs that watched him intently. A few minutes passed before Joe\u2019s grip slackened and his eyes fell closed once more, tiredness taking him once again back into unconsciousness.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
The morning sun barely peeked above the horizon bringing a stream of faded light to chase away the night. Doc Martin stood by the fire place drinking the freshly ground coffee Hop Sing had just handed him<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat you do up so early?\u00a0 Nobody wake for little while,\u201d\u00a0Hop Sing questioned.<\/p>\n
Paul let his cup come to rest upon it\u2019s saucer before looking at the smaller man with a smile spread across his face.<\/p>\n
\u201cI have some business that needs attended to this morning. Don\u2019t worry I told Ben last night I would be leaving early.\u201d<\/p>\n
The cook frowned and crossed his arms,\u00a0\u201cYou need eat, Hop Sing have breakfast for you no time at all.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sorry Hop Sing, believe me, I\u2019d like nothing better than to stay for another amazing meal, but I really need to go. Would you please tell Ben I said thank you, and also that I will drop by to check on Joseph later?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHop Sing tell him.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you,\u201d\u00a0Paul smiled as he handed his empty cup back to the cook. Reaching down he picked his hat up off the table with one hand placing it atop his head, while the other hand grasped firmly to his medical bag. Walking towards the door Martin stopped momentarily to offer his final goodbye before he exited the house closing the door behind him. Taking his time, he slowly made it to the barn preparing himself to hook up his buggy. Moving shadows caught his eye and he look around wildly. A nervous uneasiness spread through his veins though he did not know why. The air seemed to grow thick and the strong aroma of a Cuban cigar filled his nostrils. Seeing only shadows his voice broke out.\u00a0\u201cWho\u2019s there, who\u2019s….ngth!\u201d<\/p>\n
He never saw the face of the man who now stood over him, he only felt the pain that exploded through his skull as the butt of the figure\u2019s gun connected in a powerful blow. It was then Doc Martin knew darkness and his body laid in a crumpled heap upon the ground.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Johnny\u2019s hands came to rest upon the split logs that formed his ladder to the roof. He looked at Dex who stood watch in the hayloft, watching for a chance to go. Receiving the signal from his comrade he proceeded to searched for sturdy holds and quickly began his ascent trying as best as he could to move in silence.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Ben\u2019s feet casually stepped down the steps in his decent to the great room. Stealing a glance at the clock he sighed knowing it was still too early for his sons to be up. He wasn\u2019t surprised that he was awake before Adam this morning for his mind seemed to be uncalming with a constant flow of thoughts though this time they were not fearful like the night before.<\/p>\n
Hop Sing popped his head out of the kitchen and smiled at the older man who just took his seat in his favorite red leather chair. Retreating back only a moment the small cook soon reappeared with a tray in hand its contents quickly filling the air with the aroma of newly ground beans.<\/p>\n
\u201cMista Cartlight Hop Sing make you fresh cup of coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n
Startled, Ben tensed but soon recovered when his eyes meet his friends approaching form.<\/p>\n
\u201cHow did you know I was awake?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you Cartlights learn Hop Sing know evely thing.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben couldn\u2019t help but give a small laugh at the cooks statement,\u00a0\u201cYou\u2019re right Hop Sing, you\u2019re right, I wasn\u2019t thinking.\u201d<\/p>\n
The cook grinned handing the cup and saucer to the house hold patriarch.<\/p>\n
\u201cHas Paul awaken yet?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cMista Martin alleady left, just before you come. I no hear horses leave yet, must still be in barn.\u201d<\/p>\n
Taking a last sip of his coffee Ben stood to his feet.\u00a0\u201cI think I\u2019ll go check, I won\u2019t be but a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nodding the Chinaman gathered the dishes up and watched Ben exit out the front door.<\/p>\n
Walking across the yard Ben never saw the men who watched him like a hawk nor did he see Bull signal to Johnny.<\/p>\n
The creek of the door echoed loudly and Ben stepped in slowly his eyes noting the presence of the buggy and team that sat untouched but no sign of the doctor about. A curious expression crossed his features and he crouched down running the tips of his fingers across the ground letting some of the substance that laid at his feet cling to his skin. He rubbed it together bringing it up to his nostrils and inhaled the scent that emitted from it. Dread hit him full in the chest as the substance was registered as blood.\u00a0\u201cPaul!\u201d\u00a0Ben shouted rising up, venturing forward cautiously examining his surroundings\u00a0\u201cPaul are you alright?\u201d<\/p>\n
Dex came soaring from his place in the hayloft his body colliding with great force against the older man, knocking him to the ground. Instantly Ben began his retaliation pushing the younger man off him and attacking with an assault of punches which Dex did his best to block and still managed to throw his in connecting a few strong blows to Cartwright’s jaw.<\/p>\n
The structure held scarce light and gave Ben little chance to see the man in which he was entangled with in this struggle. He felt his breath escape him as a fist connected to his abdomen. He stretched out his fingers clasping tightly to the strangers shirt pulling the man closer allowing himself to climb to his feet as his opponent was pulled to the ground. Ben regained his stability and wiped the blood from his split lip with the back of his hand.\u00a0\u201cWho are you?\u201d\u00a0he growled watching the shadow of his enemy waiting for a sign of his next move.<\/p>\n
\u201cNone of your business!\u201d\u00a0Dex growled, launching himself at his opponent and they both tumbled rolling back and forth in the dirt and hay. Feeling a chain wrap around his neck Ben lashed out at the man behind him. His fingers encircled around the metal pulling at it with all his strength backing up slamming the man\u2019s body into the wall.<\/p>\n
Ben\u2019s world was swimming, his body sinking slowly as his knees began to buckle. It was then a scream echoed and the chain dropped allowing the older man to fall to his knees coughing placing a hand on the tender part of his neck. Hands gripped his soldiers, and he looked up to see Doc Martin crouched next to him a worried expression on his face.<\/p>\n
\u201cAre you alright Ben?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m alright Paul. Thank you. How about you?\u201d\u00a0Ben asked looking at the blood streaked down the side of the man\u2019s face.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m fine, just a knock on the head.\u201d<\/p>\n
Paul smiled, helping the older man to his feet before checking on the body lying beside them. Ben saw the blood pooling from the man\u2019s back and new he was dying. Martin shook his head, his hand pressed firmly against the wound he had caused and felt sick as his eyes kept locked on the gunmen in front of him.\u00a0\u201cI\u2019ve sworn an oath Ben, an oath to do all that is in my power to help save lives with the knowledge I have been given. I\u2019ve never… I mean I never thought I\u2019d\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou did what you felt you had to do, there’s no shame in that.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI know Ben,\u201d\u00a0Martin sighed.<\/p>\n
Dex reached up gripping Bens collar pulling him down so they were face to face. Allowing the strangers features to be seen for the first time.<\/p>\n
\u201cWho are you?\u201d\u00a0Ben growled angrily.<\/p>\n
\u201cI…I…st…still w…won…cart…wright…we still…won\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat’s that supposed to mean? What are you doing here!\u201d<\/p>\n
Dex smiled an eerie grin, his teeth coated in the blood that filled his mouth the same blood that choked him.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll…g…greet…your…s…s…son in…in h…ell for you,\u201d\u00a0a slight laugh sputtered from his lips as his last breath left him and his eyes were left holding the look of the dead.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat did he mean by that Ben?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d\u00a0Ben whispered in concentration.\u00a0\u201cPaul come with me I have a feeling he wasn\u2019t alone!\u201d\u00a0The older man stood to his feet before making a mad dash to the house the doctor pushing himself to keep up.<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Johnny frowned as his eyes caught sight of Adam Cartwright asleep in a nearby chair, but a smile crossed his lips upon noticing the older boy had opened the windows enough to let in a small breeze thus allow easy entrance for himself. Waving at his boss, he signaled that he was entering. Clasping the window frame tightly, he stepped in a foot at a time, cringing when his arm knocked over a frame on a nearby table. His eyes darted the elder Cartwright as his body stirred in the chair yet settled quickly allowing the intruder to relax his tense muscles.<\/p>\n
Unholstering his gun, he held tightly to the butt, slowly creeping towards his first obstacle. Tripping, a clatter rang out, but even as Adam jumped to his feet in alarm he never had a chance to register the sound for Johnny\u2019s gun plowed into the back of his skull, sending consciousness fleeing from the man as his body laid unmoving upon the wooden floor.<\/p>\n
Johnny scanned the room, examining the habitat in which his prey lived. He snorted in disgust at the sentimental trinkets that laid scattered about on some of the shelves and desks. His smile returned upon locking sight of the young man who laid bundled in the mass of sheets and blankets. Step by step he came closer till he stood hovering over the boy looking down at him with an expression that regarded his life as no more significant than an insect that he would crush underneath the toe of his boot. His hand came to rest upon Joe\u2019s cheek and then not so softly he began his attempt to wake the boy. When the youngest Cartwright failed to respond Johnny griped tightly to the fabric of his nightshirt and in one swift movement pulled him from the bed, letting his body drop heavily to the ground.<\/p>\n
With a painful and startled cry, Joes eye\u2019s snapped open. He grasped his chest and moaned, not quite aware of what was happening around him. It was a few seconds before he locked his dazed stare onto the man standing over him and his eyes filled with fear.<\/p>\n
\u201cWakey, wakey kid. I gots a job to finish.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cC…C…Carter,\u201d\u00a0Joe exclaimed though it only came out as a hoarse whisper.<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, it\u2019s nice to see some one remembers me around here.\u201d\u00a0Bending down he picked Joe off the ground like he weighed next to nothing, and his hand covered the boy\u2019s mouth, preventing the strangled cry that followed to be anything more than a muffled sound barely audible to a man\u2019s ear. Little Joe felt a deeper sense of dread fill him as rope was slid around his neck. His mind screamed for help, and he fought back, but his body only struggled lightly and it was not enough to challenge even a weak opponent. The youngest Cartwright ceased his movements and stared at the figure that lay on the floor nearby. Seeing the blood pooled around his brother\u2019s head made his heart constrict, and for a moment he forgot the rope that suddenly became tighter taking his life\u2019s breath away.<\/p>\n
\u201cNothing personal Joe. This is just the job and while doing it, I get a little revenge on that stinkin\u2019 book-learned brother of yours! As you feel yourself slippin\u2019 away remember it\u2019s he who done it to ya.\u201d\u00a0Johnny laughed in his ear.<\/p>\n
Taking the boy to the floor he pressed is knee into the small of his back and prepared to make the kill. Joe\u2019s fingers clawed at the floor, desperately trying to get away, but all he felt was intense pain. A tear slipped down his cheek as his eyes stayed unmoving on his brother\u2019s face. He loved Adam and was sorry he would never have a chance to prove himself to him, and with those thoughts he forced his hand across the boards, willing it to touch his brothers hand. When the youngest Cartwright felt the older man\u2019s finger tips he closed his eyes hoping darkness would come release him from the pain that held him captive.<\/p>\n
Adams lashes fluttered as consciousness summoned him and he groaned inaudibly at the pounding he felt in his head. Sliding one hand up he touched his crown cringing when he felt the deep cut. Opening his eyes, he slowly tried to make sense of the flashing shapes and lights around him. Focusing the best he could, the first thing he saw was his out stretched hand the fingertips of which held those of his baby brother. He though quickly becoming aware of his surroundings was not prepared for the sight that lay before him. Johnny Carter a man whom he hadn\u2019t seen for over three years and wouldn\u2019t mind if he never crossing paths with again was knelled down, his knee pressed viciously into his brothers back while his hands pulled a rope tightly across the boys neck. A savage cry tore from him and Adam raised to his feet with a speed no one would have thought possible. Johnny seeing this released his hold and drew his gun pulling it up to take aim. Adam tackled him with all the force that was within him, and the Colt clattered unfired to the ground sliding away from the two brawling figures.<\/p>\n
Adam was not surprised when he felt himself getting the worst of the fight for his head was splitting and focusing on the man was a feat in itself. His brothers life however was on the line and for that reason he would not fail. When Johnny\u2019s fist connected in a solid punch to his jaw Adam felt himself fall backwards against the wall, dazed.<\/p>\n
Joe lay hacking violently beside the ongoing struggle, he looked up watching as his enemy pulled a knife from the sheath on his thigh and proceeded in advancing towards his brother. Fear gripped him when the two collided again a second time. Adam grasped tightly to Johnny\u2019s wrist, which inched closer to his chest, a knife gripped tightly underneath his fingers. Clenching his jaw, the older Cartwright pushed harder, his efforts giving him little progress.<\/p>\n
Casting his eyes beside him Joe saw the discarded Colt laying a few feet away. Holding his breath he stretched forth his arm in an attempt to reach it, but saw himself falling short of his goal. raising to his elbows he pulled forward dragging his body across the floor. Beads of sweat collected on his brow, his lip was tucked tightly between his teeth in hopes that his cries would stay unvoiced. The cold steel felt good against his finger tips and he exhaled deeply as the gun rested fully within his hands. Turning over he propped his weary body against the bed and with shaky arms he lifted the gun aiming it at the man that right now he hated more than anything.<\/p>\n
Adam could feel the point of the blade make first contact with his skin and he bit back a cry as his attempts to keep it going in further were failing.<\/p>\n
Joe tried to focus but his vision was splitting making it almost impossible to shoot in fear he might miss and hit his brother. Adam\u2019s cry resounded in his ear and anger coursed through him. Praying to God for accuracy he cocked the hammer and with a deep breath he pulled the trigger flinching as the explosion from the gun echoed in his ears.<\/p>\n
Carter\u2019s eyes grew wide and his strength had appeared to leave him, for Adam pushed him off without effort. The man sat on his knees in shock; it was only a moment before the knife dropped from his hand and he started to convulse and sputter. His fingers touched the hole in his chest, and he looked at the crimson on his finger tips as if it were an impossible phenomenon. Without word he dropped to the side and his chest fell, not rising again.<\/p>\n
Breathing heavily, Adam looked at the fallen man in disgust. Staggering to his feet he cast his eyes behind him in the direction where the shot were fired. He looked in surprise to see his baby brother propped against the bed post, a gun in his hand, which at that moment he let slip from his fingers and drop unnoticed to the floor, letting his body sink as exhaustion over took his very being. Adam rushed forward and dropped to his knees pulling his brother into his arms holding him as tremors shook through his body. Adam entangled his fingers within the boys hair holding him so close as if trying to convince himself that he indeed was real. Tears of relief slipped from both their eyes thanking God for the safety of one another. Joe grasped his siblings shirt collar breathing in it\u2019s comforting scent of Bay Rum.<\/p>\n
\u201cOh Adam!\u201d\u00a0he cried letting his lashes fall closed and stick to the dampness of his face.<\/p>\n
Kissing the boy\u2019s crown, Adam choked and held tighter, resting his cheek against the head of curly locks. Finding the voice in which he lost Adam whispered,\u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s alright buddy, It\u2019s alright.\u201d<\/p>\n
That is how Ben and Paul found them upon entering the room, almost taking the door down in the process. Hoss appeared behind them in a disheveled mess, but gun in hand,\u00a0\u201cPa?\u201d\u00a0he asked questioningly.<\/p>\n
Adam looked at his father, who was momentarily focusing on the figure on the floor before locking is gaze with his two sons that lay in each other\u2019s arms.\u00a0\u201cHe was going to kill Joe Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kneeling beside both sons he caressed his eldest face, his eyes holding worry,\u00a0\u201cAre you both alright son?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m fine, just a little sore. Joes exhausted.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben wrapped his arms around them and then pulled Hoss down to do the same,\u00a0\u201cFor a moment there when I heard that gunshot, I thought I\u2019d lost one of you boys.\u201d<\/p>\n
Paul examined the body that lay unmoving on the floor, one look and he knew he was dead. Looking at Adam with questioning eyes, the younger man knew what was being inquired.<\/p>\n
\u201cHis name\u2019s Johnny Carter, he worked for us a little over three years ago. That is of course until I caught him rustling our cattle.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt looks like he held a mighty big grudge against ya Ben,\u201d\u00a0Paul sighed, walking over to the four men, three of which looked like they had been in a bar room brawl.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt wouldn\u2019t be the first time we had a disgruntled employ, and I hope I\u2019m wrong in saying it probably won\u2019t be the last.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI hope your wrong too Ben, I\u2019m running out of room in my filing cabinets for your family\u2019s medical records.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cJust as long as you can still manage today\u2019s, I think we\u2019ll be fine.\u201d\u00a0Ben laughed<\/p>\n
Paul stood to his feet and straightened his less than presentable jacket and headed out the door.\u00a0\u201cI\u2019m going to fetch Hop Sing I need a few things before we begin. Hoss you might want to take Mr. Carter down to the store room till we can call out Roy. I\u2019ll be back in just a moment.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAlright Paul,\u201d\u00a0Ben replied.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss will you help me get your brother on his bed.\u201d<\/p>\n
Standing to his feet, Hoss lifted Little Joe from his position in Adam\u2019s lap, allowing his older brother to rise slowly to his feet with a little help from his father.<\/p>\n
\u201cOw!\u201d\u00a0Joe complained opening his eyes\u00a0\u201cWatch where your poking!\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSorry \u2018bout that Joe,\u201d\u00a0Hoss apologized, it was only a few seconds that passed when it struck the large man full force that his brother had spoken to him for the first time sense the accident.\u00a0\u201cJoe!\u201d\u00a0he exclaimed.\u00a0\u201cYou\u2019re awake!\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben moved over to the bed and pushed back his youngest sons curl\u2019s a smile full on his face,\u00a0\u201cYou\u2019ve had this family worried young man.\u201d<\/p>\n
Joe frowned then gave a small grin one, which at the moment he didn\u2019t really feel. \u201cSorry Pa didn\u2019t mean to.\u201d<\/p>\n
Looking up at Adam Ben asked,\u00a0\u201cWhen?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt must have been some time after I was knocked out, I didn\u2019t know till after I came to and fought Carter that he was okay. I thought I was dead then I heard the shot ring out and knew surely you or Hoss had arrived. I looked back and got the surprise of my life to find Joe with the smoking pistol.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cTouching, very touching\u201d\u00a0Bull smirked standing within the door way the barrel of his gun aimed steadily at them. The atmosphere turned grim, and Ben\u2019s face turned white as the man came closer his features completely visible<\/p>\n
\u201cBy the look on your face I\u2019d say you remember me old man.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI remember Jedidiah,\u201d\u00a0Ben said in a low growl.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat have you done to Paul?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDon\u2019t worry none about the good ole\u2019 Doc He and that cooky of yours are keeping a couple of my men company at the moment. I ain\u2019t got no score to settle with them.\u201d<\/p>\n
Looking over at Johnny Bull snorted,\u00a0\u201cShoulda killed the idiot when I had the chance. If you wanna job done write ya gotta do it yourself I always say.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIf I remember correctly Jedidiah, your last endeavor didn\u2019t come out quite as you planned,\u201d\u00a0Ben smirked.<\/p>\n
Bull saw red and in one swift movement his colt was cocked and placed roughly at Bens head,\u00a0\u201cYou think you\u2019re so funny don\u2019t you, did you really think I\u2019d let you get away with what you did? I spent the last fourteen years in prison because of you and that stupid Sheriff, but he got his.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cRicard?\u201d\u00a0Ben breathed in surprise.<\/p>\n
\u201cDead. Poor man had an unfortunate accidentk much like your boy\u2019s here, of course he didn\u2018t survive his.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cMonster!\u201d\u00a0Ben seethed<\/p>\n
Jedidiah smiled and backed away looking from his enemy to the three sons whose features held identical looks of confusion,\u00a0\u201cWhy Benny boy I\u2019d think you didn\u2019t tell them about me.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDidn\u2019t feel the need to waste their time nor mine.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat? Afraid they\u2019d think down on you for being a murderer.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was self-defense, I would have never had to raise my gun in the first place if you and your men wouldn\u2019t have tried to rob the San Fransisco Liberty Bank.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou kilt my baby brother! He was only fifteen!\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHe fired the first shots Bullock not me. A dozen other men were involved in that shootout too. Sheriff Ricard deputized us all, we we\u2019re well within the law.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cLiar!\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt seems to me you\u2019ve forgotten that it was you who placed him in the situation that got him killed.\u201d<\/p>\n
His face red Bull, aimed his gun at the elder Cartwright\u00a0,\u201cA life for a life, a boy for a boy.\u201d\u00a0Moving his gun he pointed the barrel at Joe\u2019s chest and began to pull the trigger.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe!\u201d<\/p>\n
Hop Sing slinked through the door quietly and for the moment unnoticed. Gripping the frying pan tightly he positioned himself behind the man. He looked up in awe at the size of his opponent, but recovered and jumped up bringing the skillet down onto the giants head. The gun fired sending the bullet crashing into the wall across the room. Hop Sing smiled in satisfaction when the large form fell to the floor.<\/p>\n
Ben looked at the small cook in surprised relief,\u00a0\u201cHop Sing ,you have impeccable timing.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHop Sing know.\u201d<\/p>\n
Paul burst in the door. \u201cFor land sakes Hop Sing, I thought you we\u2019re going to wait until we were armed.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHop Sing is armed\u201d\u00a0The Chinaman snapped, lifting up is pan.<\/p>\n
\u201cI meant guns.\u201d\u00a0Looking at the Cook\u2019s expression Paul raised his hand\u2019s in defeat,\u00a0\u201cAlright, alright you win.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAre you boys, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are now,\u201d\u00a0Adam answered.\u00a0\u201cHow did the two you manage this.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, that would be thanks to the arrival of your men Ben. They have three of the lookouts tied up in the store room. I believe there were more I heard horses riding away from here I\u2019m assuming things got a little too hot for them though I don\u2018t suspect they\u2018ll get to far with some of your hands tracking them down. I sent Charlie for Roy I figured we could use him about now.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThat would be a correct assumption,\u201d\u00a0Ben replied before continuing,\u00a0\u201cHop Sing, would you go down and boil some water, and get a few towels. While you\u2019re down there, send a few of the men up to secure Jedidiah and take him and Carter down stairs.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWait, I\u2019ll get the boys Hop Sing, I\u2019m headed for the barn anyways, I need to get my bag. I\u2019ll be right back Ben, and this time I mean it.\u201d\u00a0Paul smiled at his ending statement and proceeded to follow Hop Sing out the door<\/p>\n
Ben nodded and watched both of the men leave before turning his attention to the most important thing his heart knew, his sons.<\/p>\n
*****<\/strong><\/p>\nEPILOGUE<\/p>\n
Two days had passed slowly. Roy had come and gone taking with him the bodies of those who had brought so much grief upon his friends family. The men who had fled were locked away behind bars thanks to the ranch hands persistence and unwavering loyalty.<\/p>\n
The threat on their family had been extinguished, and now it was time for things to return to how they were supposed to be. The memories would fade, much like the bruises both father and sons wore, though it would take time, time is what they needed.<\/p>\n
Joe said very little, most of the last day and a half he spent resting thanks to Paul Martin\u2019s elixir. Of course though the young Cartwright would never admit to it, he felt as if he could have slept just fine without any help from a bottle, but he did have an image of stubbornness to withhold and he wasn\u2019t about to appear weak, though no one expected anymore from him except maybe himself…………….<\/p>\n
*****<\/p>\n
Adam had just entered into his brother\u2019s room, checking on him before heading off to bed for the night. Even from where he was standing Adam could tell that Joe\u2019s mind was a million miles away and something was definitely troubling the boy. Though Adam wasn\u2019t for certain what had the young man distracted, he was pretty sure he could guess what was causing the forlorn look in his sibling\u2019s eyes.\u00a0\u201cCan I come in?\u201d\u00a0he announced.<\/p>\n
Joe looked over at his brother startled by the break in his rooms silent atmosphere.\u00a0\u201cWhat are you doin\u2019 up Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSorry I surprised you, Joe. I just dropped in to talk. I know it\u2019s late, but it\u2019s important.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cTalk? What about?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI just wanted to know how you\u2019re doing,\u201d\u00a0sighing inwardly Adam scolded himself. Why was it so hard to say what he needed to say. He had just promised himself that he would make things right with his brother when he had the chance and now even though he had suffered through so much inner turmoil these past few days he still felt like procrastinating, but he knew that his heart would not allow him.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s what\u2019s so important?\u201d\u00a0Joe spouted, confused.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo… Actually, what I really wanted to say is… Joe when I yelled the other night, I guess… I mean I know I lost my temper and I shouldn\u2019t have, and I \u2018m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou don\u2019t have to apologize Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, yes, I do. I was wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSometimes anger is a person\u2019s way of letting out feelings they\u2019re withholding. That\u2019s exactly what one of them fellas said in that book you had me read,\u201d Joe whispered.<\/p>\n
Closing his eyes Adam pinched the bridge of his nose letting a frustrated groan rumble in his throat.\u00a0\u201cI wasn\u2019t doing any such thing Joe,\u201d\u00a0he waited for a contradicting remark from his brother, but it never came. Gazing down at the boy\u2019s partially hidden features Adam could see the tears pooling in his hazel depths and it made his heart constrict\u00a0\u201cJoe?\u201d\u00a0Leaning down Adam sat upon the bed placing his fingers on his sibling\u2019s chin.\u00a0\u201cPlease talk to me. You know I\u2019ll listen to whatever you have to say\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, little buddy?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAm I…am I a disappointment to you?\u201d\u00a0Joe croaked.<\/p>\n
Adam nearly choked on his own voice almost afraid to speak might it betray him. Moving closer to his brother he embraced him letting his chin come to rest on the boys crown, tears stinging in his eyes. He could feel Joes tears soak through his shirt as the boy\u2019s body shook with tremors as he wept.<\/p>\n
\u201cNever,\u201d\u00a0Adam breathed.\u00a0\u201cDo you hear me, Joe? Never!\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cW…what?\u201d\u00a0Joe choked looking up at the older man.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou have never been a disappointment to me, not ever. I…I\u2019m so very proud of you boy don\u2019t you know that?\u201d<\/p>\n
Joe buried his face deeper into the man\u2019s chest.\u00a0\u201cI… I\u2019ve always wanted to be like you Adam. I\u2019ve tried so hard, but I can\u2019t seem to…I couldn\u2019t…\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe…\u201d\u00a0Adam interrupted,\u00a0\u201c…I have never expected you to be like me, no one has, and we wouldn\u2019t want you to. You\u2019re perfect just being you.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBut I mess up all the time\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd I don\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell…well sometimes maybe, but not like I do.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, I\u2019m thirteen years your elder. I had already made so many mistakes before you were even born, or even old enough to remember. I wasn\u2019t Pa\u2019s perfect son you know, nor have I ever been. Just because I have college education doesn\u2018t mean I\u2018m incapable of screwing up.\u201d\u00a0Adam smiled.\u00a0\u201cBesides if you were me, I wouldn\u2019t have a reason to be jealous of you now would I?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cJealous…of me? What for?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBecause you have a love for life that makes you want to live every day to the fullest, enjoy every moment, Sometimes I have to admit I\u2019ve been jealous of that because I can\u2019t seem to look at the world in the same way.\u201d\u00a0Adam ran his fingers through his raven hair, letting the words he wanted to say have time to organize in his mind.\u00a0\u201cWhat I really wanted to tell you Joe is that there was a few times, I thought I might lose you this past week, and I would have never forgiven myself if the last thing I had said to you were a load of angry lies. I love you so much boy, and I should have never let the sun set on my anger.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI love ya to Adam. I\u2019m sorry I got in that fight, I just lost my temper. Ole\u2019 Ned Collins was runnin\u2019 his mouth off again. I know I should have ignored him like you said, but he insulted ya Adam, and I got mad.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe fight at the saloon was about me?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYeah, don\u2019t no one get away with callin\u2019 ya names but me.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAre you saying you call me names?\u201d\u00a0Adam asked with a fake glare.<\/p>\n
Looking overly innocent Joe grinned\u00a0\u201cMe? Ne-ver.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sure you wouldn\u2019t,\u201d\u00a0Adam smiled as he placed his arm around his brother and gave a gentle squeeze.\u00a0\u201cDon\u2019t ever believe I\u2019d ever think of you with anything else but pride!\u201d<\/p>\n
Standing to his feet Adam stretched out his tired limbs \u201cI better get to bed. I have two sets of chores to do while you\u2019re playing hooky.\u201d\u00a0Dodging a pillow, he took refuge in the hall. Peeking in only a moment to grip the door knob, a smile at the boy who was hunting another object to hurl,\u00a0\u201cGood night, Joseph,\u201d\u00a0he spoke smugly.<\/p>\n
Joe scrunched up his noses then smiled deviously\u00a0\u201cNight Yankee granite head!\u201d\u00a0Joe chorused behind him. A snort of laughter followed Adam out of the room and he couldn\u2019t help but laugh himself as he closed the door. It was finally going to be ok. Everything was the way it was supposed to be. Still hearing the giggle from behind the wall he smiled inwardly it was a priceless sound he would never again take for granted.<\/p>\n
The End<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Summary:\u00a0 Can the family survive the repercussions of an event from long ago and words spoken anger only three days before?
\nRating:\u00a0 PG\u00a0 \u00a0 Word Count:\u00a0 19,475<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12436,"featured_media":41001,"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_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,1008,41],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-40936","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-hurtcomfort","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-41-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40936","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/12436"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=40936"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40936\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/41001"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=40936"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=40936"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=40936"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}