Summary:\u00a0 Little Joe travels to San Francisco to help one of Dr. Peele’s patients and encounters danger and a strange turn of events when Ben gets there.\u00a0 Rated T, WC 22,000 Third in the “Whatever it Takes series”, links to all stories of this series included.<\/p>\n
Whatever It Takes Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n Whatever it Takes<\/a> \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n A Part Of the Main<\/strong><\/p>\n No man is an island, entire of itself, <\/em><\/p>\n every man is a piece of the continent, <\/em><\/p>\n a part of the main.<\/em><\/p>\n John Donne<\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Ben Cartwright read the letter for the third time,<\/strong> still trying to digest the contents and the request therein. As he stood from his desk in the study he thought back on all the events that had led up to the position he now found himself in. Ben walked over to the crystal brandy decanter perched on the table in the living room. He poured himself a drink still deep in thought. He again looked at the letter and read parts of it aloud. \u201cAnd so, I am asking that Joseph come for a visit if it does not cause you any difficulty at this time. There is much I would like to show him and in particular, there is a patient that I really think he could help.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben sat down on the hearth and pushed the poker to toy with the fire logs. He wondered if this whole idea of going to San Francisco to visit Doctor Peele would be a wise thing for his son. There still were days when he would catch a far away stare in Joe\u2019s eyes and knew what he was thinking without even asking.<\/p>\n The six months that had passed since Joe had gone through his second bout with morphine withdrawal had been painful ones. There still were times when Joe seemed distant from his two brothers as well as his own father. Ben was not at all sure that the memories of Joe\u2019s abduction and forced morphine addiction were not constantly on the young man\u2019s mind. Yes, there were times when he felt the \u201cold\u201d Joe was back, full of laughter and love of life. Other times, he saw a subdued and depressed side of his son. It was that side that still scared him.<\/p>\n Just as had been the case in the past struggle to free himself from his addiction, Joe fought to shut out all discussion about what had taken place. As if that would fool his brain into forgetting the evil that had taken place. It made it impossible for Ben to offer help or understand what exactly was going on in his son\u2019s thoughts. He had hoped that eventually time would mend the still open wounds and he would truly have his son back as he had been before. But, Ben didn\u2019t see that happening yet, and a trip to San Francisco was not the remedy for forgetting as far as he could see.<\/p>\n Ben stood and wondered how he would address the issue of Doctor Peele\u2019s request once Joseph was back home that evening. He had a strong urge to just tear the letter up. But, he knew he couldn\u2019t do that either! Ben felt intense gratitude for the doctor who had done so much for Joe. He had treated him in the hospital and sent him home seemingly well. He had also come again to their aid when they tried to get the two men who had abducted Joe prosecuted and the doctor had played a major role in winning that case. Ben knew he had to at least ask his son if he wanted to visit Doctor Peele, no matter what his own feelings were. He also wondered if Doctor Peele would tell Joseph about Daniel.<\/p>\n Ben walked back to his desk with the realization that there was something else bothering him besides the worry over his son\u2019s possible trip to San Francisco. It was something that bothered him almost as much as the worry about Joe\u2019s mental well being. And that was the discussion he had with Doctor Peele regarding the doctor\u2019s son Daniel. Ben still remembered looking at the locket, which bore Daniel\u2019s picture. He could still see the face, the face that was a mirrored image of Joe Cartwright! Would the doctor tell Joe? Would he tell him how saving Joe\u2019s life in the hospital made the doctor feel as if he were saving his own son Daniel?<\/p>\n Ben tried to shake himself out of the mental foreboding. Maybe, he thought, maybe he was reading too much in to the way the doctor felt about Joseph. But, then there were the wistful stares he had witnessed when the doctor didn\u2019t know Ben was looking at him. Ben could see the longing in the man\u2019s eyes as he looked upon his own son who was an exact replica of the doctor\u2019s deceased son.<\/p>\n Ben stuffed the letter back in its envelope and placed it in his desk drawer, it would wait until later when Joseph was home. Then, somehow he would have to accept the fact that Joe might just want to visit his friend Doctor Harold Peele.<\/p>\n The three Cartwright brothers made their traditional loud entrance to the ranch house right before supper that night. Joe had beaten both his brothers inside the house and bolted the door just as Ben rounded the corner coming in from the kitchen. Then there was the loud banging and threats on Joe\u2019s life until Joe finally conceded and unlocked the door.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m gonna pound you!\u201d Hoss yelled approaching his youngest brother. To which Joe ran behind his father. \u201cHey\u2014Pa! Good to see you!\u201d Hoss recanted his statement. Then Adam walked in.<\/p>\n \u201cYou are a juvenile! You\u2019d think that this door locking stuff would have gotten old by now!\u201d Adam sighed and took off his coat.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay\u2014what\u2019s\u2019 going on now?\u201d Ben felt he had to ask even though he knew it must be something Joe had done to rile his brothers so. Joe shrugged his shoulders and tried his best innocent look. \u201cI don\u2019t know, Pa\u2014guess they are just losing their sense of humor is all!\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss grabbed Joe by the back of his shirt and as usual Ben had to step in. \u201cDinner is ready\u2014save the beating for later, Hoss. You wouldn\u2019t want your food to get cold!\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss frowned and turned Joe loose. Joe shot back a smirk at both of his brothers and followed closely behind his father toward the dining room table.<\/p>\n After Hop Sing brought out the food and Ben said grace, the three brothers took turns discussing their day of work. \u201cAnd Joe\u2014well he barely did any of the hay baling! Half the time he was goofing off the other half he was sleeping!\u201d Hoss shot his brother an unfriendly look.<\/p>\n \u201cIs that true, Joseph?\u201d Ben asked trying to hide his amusement at his oldest sons. It was a typical day and he had heard this story before. Adam and Hoss worked diligently and Joe found ways to get out of work.<\/p>\n \u201cHuh?\u201d Joe tried to act hurt at the accusation. \u201cI worked as hard as both of them\u2014it\u2019s just that I get done with my part quicker. You know Pa\u2014they ARE a lot older and slower than me!\u201d<\/p>\n To that witty remark Joe felt Hoss\u2019 boot kick under the table.<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014we may be older but we are not slower\u2014you don\u2019t take your work seriously that\u2019s all.\u201d Adam defended both himself and Hoss.<\/p>\n Joe laughed and remarked, \u201cOh\u2014yeah\u2014stacking hay is SUCH serious work!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben shook his head trying to think of something to say to his sons that he hadn\u2019t already said a thousand times. He couldn\u2019t think of anything, so he just poured more coffee and waited for the next round of banter.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I think Hoss and I should go look at that string of horses Mr. Dixon has for sale. And while we are gone Joe should finish with the hay.\u201d Adam stared over at Joe waiting for his next humorous remark.<\/p>\n \u201cNo\u2014Brother\u2014buying livestock is much too serious for the two of you\u2014I best go!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben cleared his throat to gain the room\u2019s attention. \u201cI will send you and Hoss, Adam. I will find Joseph a suitable job to do.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe frowned at his father\u2019s statement wondering what awful chore he was thinking of assigning him. Then his mind flashed back to another time, another assignment. The time he had been given the task of going to the line shack known as Oblivion. Joe watched the scene play out as it had so many times in the past. He fought to release the memories but they kept coming back and taking him places where he struggled not to go.<\/p>\n Ben stared worriedly at his youngest son. There had been over fifteen minutes of conversation between Hoss and Adam that had gone totally unchallenged by Joe. Then, each man could see that familiar countenance take over Joe\u2019s whole person and they knew where he was in thought. Ben felt uneasy at the way Joe could be so fun-loving one moment and so dark the next. He would rather have the arguments between the three brothers again. At least that was normal and even held within it a testament of their deep feelings for one another.<\/p>\n Hoss looked over at his father, as did Adam. They were unsure how to handle the situation, even though it had happened many times in the past. It was an awkward silence, one that the two brothers looked to their father to break.<\/p>\n Finally, Ben reached over and touched Joe\u2019s arm. \u201cJoseph? You still with us?\u201d He asked quietly. Joe slowly shook himself out of his daze and looked around embarrassed. \u201cWhat? What were you saying, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss smiled and said, \u201cWell\u2014I was saying pass me the biscuits or I\u2019ll kick you again!\u201d Hoss tried his best to reassure his little brother that all was well.<\/p>\n \u201cOh\u2014sorry.\u201d Joe replied and handed Hoss the basket of biscuits. Joe then wiped his mouth on his napkin and looked over at his father. \u201cI am kinda tired\u2014think I\u2019ll go to bed.\u201d He stood and walked away from his family.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, there he goes again,\u201d Adam paused as he saw Joe leave for his room. \u201cWe all know where his mind was, and rather than talking about it he chooses to run away from us.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I\u2019m afraid that\u2019s true, Son. But the past does have a way of catching up with a person. And now we have another problem to contend with.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat problem, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked before Adam had the chance.<\/p>\n \u201cI received a letter today from Doctor Peele, seems he wants Joseph to come and see him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s kinda out of the blue, isn\u2019t it?\u201d Adam looked at his father\u2019s troubled face.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I did promise Harold that Joseph would visit some time. It\u2019s just the timing of it\u2014well, I don\u2019t think is too good. Going to San Francisco \u2014dealing with those memories\u2014I\u2019m not sure it might not set Joe back even farther.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhen you gonna tell him, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked staring toward his brother\u2019s room.<\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t keep it from him. I was planning on talking to him about it this evening. The doctor also wrote that there was a patient who he thought Joseph could help.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSeems to me that Joe is the one who needs some help.\u201d Adam\u2019s reply came off with his own sense of worry in it.<\/p>\n \u201cI just don\u2019t know\u2014maybe it would force Joseph in to admitting some of his problems.\u201d Ben trailed off not really believing his statement. He stood from the table and looked at his two eldest sons who shared worried expressions on their faces. \u201cI guess I\u2019ll go up and speak with him before he goes to sleep.\u201d Ben walked to the staircase and up to Joe\u2019s room.<\/p>\n Joe sat by his window staring out into the darkness. He hoped he could fall asleep more easily, but could not shake the troubled thoughts, which hounded his mind. When he heard the knock on his door he walked over and opened it. \u201cPa? What\u2019s wrong?\u201d Joe asked letting his father inside.<\/p>\n \u201cI wanted to talk to you\u2014I was hoping you hadn\u2019t fallen asleep yet.\u201d Ben walked over to the chair by his son\u2019s bed and sat down. Joe sat down on the bottom of the bed and hoped in his heart that his father only had a lecture about being more diligent in his work performance in mind. Joe did not want anything else brought up about the past, but read his father\u2019s face and knew what was coming.<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph, I know I\u2019ve tried to talk to you about your feelings before, and I know you want me to forget all that has happened to you in the past. I can\u2019t do that, not when I see you troubled as often as I have here lately.\u201d Ben spoke quietly hoping that maybe this once he could reach past Joe\u2019s tough exterior and get to the heart of the matter.<\/p>\n Instead, Joe stood back up and walked away from his father and over to his window. \u201cPa\u2014I asked you not to bring it up again! There\u2019s no point! I am fine! Why do you have to always try and make me remember this stuff anyway? It\u2019s buried\u2014it\u2019s over! I told you before!\u201d Joe\u2019s temper started to take over in his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cJust look at yourself! Then tell me it\u2019s over! You are still fighting with some of the things you went through. I understand that, I also understand your thinking that if we don\u2019t talk about it then it\u2019s like none of it happened! But, Son, it DID happen and you have to come to terms with it or it will never really go away.\u201d Ben walked over to where Joe now stood.<\/p>\n \u201cLook, Pa, this IS how I deal with it! I don\u2019t think about it and someday I won\u2019t remember it at all. Just give me time\u2014you worry too much.\u201d Joe tried to calm himself and sound more in control than what he really felt. \u201cBesides, why do you have to bring it up now? I\u2019ve been doing real good lately!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben frowned at what was an obvious lie. \u201cOne reason I\u2019m bringing this up is because I received a letter today.\u201d Ben paused and Joe finally met his eyes confused at what his father was saying.<\/p>\n \u201cLetter? From who?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDoctor Peele, it seems he wants you to pay him a visit. He also said he has a patient he thinks you could help.\u201d<\/p>\n At that, Joe walked back to the chair and sat down again, his thoughts going back to his relationship with the doctor, and also how he felt about San Francisco. There was a hospital there that Joe really did not want to ever see again! He had hoped that when he left there, that at least that one part of his ordeal was a dead issue. Now he worried about what the doctor expected of him. It sounded to Joe like the doctor was actually expecting him to not only visit the hospital but also help in some kind of patient rehabilitation! The thought of that was really frightening to Joe. He had been on the other end of rehab himself and did not relish the thought in participating in either side of the issue.<\/p>\n But then there was the bond he felt with the doctor. It was a strong one and Joe could not entertain the thought of letting the man down who had done so much for him. Several times it seemed to Joe as though Doctor Peele was the only one in the world who had truly understood his suffering and had faith that he would recover, when no-one else thought it possible.<\/p>\n \u201cWell?\u00a0\u00a0 What do you think, Joseph?\u201d Ben finally asked sitting down next to his son.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know; I did promise him I\u2019d visit\u2014I just never thought about when.\u201d Joe was beginning to wonder why his father had even asked him how he felt. Joe figured surely his father would know that he would have to visit the doctor. There was no way he could turn down a request from someone who cared so much about him.<\/p>\n \u201cBut do you want to go now? Or do you think that, perhaps, you should wait a little longer until\u2014\u201d Ben was cut short by his son.<\/p>\n \u201cUntil what, Pa? Until I am perfectly FINE? Until I have gotten back to what you think is normal? I don\u2019t think that\u2019s gonna happen\u2014at least no time soon. I\u2019ll go see Doc \u2014I owe him that much.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben reached over and turned Joe\u2019s face to meet his eyes. \u201cDon\u2019t do this out of a feeling of debt, Son. Only do this if you truly want to do it and for no other reason.\u201d He whispered softly.<\/p>\n Joe looked into his father\u2019s eyes and saw uncertainty in them. \u201cDon\u2019t worry about me, Pa. I\u2019ll be okay\u2014I\u2019ll just go for a couple weeks and come home and everything will be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou sure?\u201d Ben was not at all convinced at Joe\u2019s brave show of nonchalance.<\/p>\n Joe tried his best to muster a smile but it came off as a half-hearted effort, one Ben easily knew was a fake. \u201cYeah, Pa, I am sure. I\u2019ll leave day after tomorrow if it\u2019s okay with you. I\u2019ll send a telegraph tomorrow to let Doc know when to expect me.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stood wearily, Joseph always did things the hard way, and it looked as though he was keeping with that pattern now. Ben felt it would have been wiser for Joseph to just admit he was having serious doubts about going and wait a few months, but then, that was not his son\u2019s style. He always had to prove he was strong enough to take anything that was thrown at him.<\/p>\n Ben walked to the door and then turned back to look at his youngest son, he still had more to say. \u201cJoseph, I would be lying to you if I told you that I thought this was all a good idea. I don\u2019t think it is, not right now anyway. But, if this is something you truly want to do\u2014well\u2014I guess you have to do it.\u201d Ben hoped for one last response from his son, maybe for once he would agree with his father.<\/p>\n Joe nodded and replied, \u201cI\u2019ll leave day after tomorrow, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben walked out of the room closing the door. He wished Joe hadn\u2019t grown up so fast. He wished that Joe was still young enough to simply be told he could not go and let that be the end of it. Unfortunately, Ben knew he had to let Joseph do what he felt he had to do, regardless of the consequences.<\/p>\n The noon stage was late as usual, and both Ben and Joe waited outside of the stage-line office. Ben had tried his best not to interfere with his son\u2019s decision, but that didn\u2019t mean it wasn\u2019t weighing on his mind as he stared at Joe. Doctor Peele had been sent a telegraph the previous day announcing Joe\u2019s departure and arrival times. It was going to happen and Ben knew there was no longer room for an argument about Joe\u2019s decision.<\/p>\n \u201cYou have everything? You have enough money with you?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n Joe smiled at his father\u2019s questions. \u201cC\u2019mon, Pa! It\u2019s not like I haven\u2019t been away before you know? I\u2019ve got everything don\u2019t worry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTelling me not to worry is a waste of time, Joseph, because you know I will until you come home. That\u2019s a father\u2019s prerogative! Looks like the stage is coming!\u201d Ben announced just as the stagecoach rounded the corner at the end of town.<\/p>\n Joe stepped back as the passengers withdrew from the stage. The driver called down to him. \u201cGuess you are my only passenger out of here today! Throw me those bags up here! I want to make it to the first way-station before dark and I\u2019m already late!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe tossed the driver his two bags and paused for a minute before getting aboard. \u201cSee you in a couple of weeks, Pa!\u201d He smiled and went to shake his father\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n Ben, instead, pulled him into an embrace and hugged him. \u201cC\u2019mon, Pa! \u2014people are looking!\u201d Joe complained but that did not stop his father.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is another one of those fatherly prerogatives, Joseph! And I don\u2019t care who is watching!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey, I\u2019ll be back you know! It\u2019s not like I\u2019m never gonna see you again!\u201d Joe teased as he broke from his father\u2019s embrace and stepped into the stagecoach.<\/p>\n \u201cYou be careful!\u201d Ben called and Joe nodded obediently.<\/p>\n \u201cSee you later, Pa!\u201d Joe called as the stage pulled briskly away. Ben stood on the street until the stage had gone entirely out of sight. He felt a combination of worry and loneliness as he walked back to the buckboard for the drive back to the ranch.<\/p>\n Joe admitted to himself that the scenery had been a bit boring on the three day\u2019s trip to San Francisco. He had seen it all before and was anxious to get to his destination. When the stage pulled up at the depot in San Francisco Joe found a carriage waiting for him driven by Doctor Peele\u2019s own manservant. He was surprised that the man recognized him right away, having never met him before! Maybe the doctor had given the man a very good description, Joe thought to himself as the man grabbed both of Joe\u2019s bags and set them in the back of the carriage.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe Cartwright.\u201d Joe said reaching to shake the man\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n \u201cRobert Weems, and it\u2019s a pleasure to meet you, young man.\u201d The older man said and both men climbed into the carriage. \u201cI have orders to bring you to the hospital first. Doctor Peele is expecting you.\u201d The man sent the carriage into motion and Joe\u2019s thoughts were of the disappointment he was feeling that he was to go to the hospital so soon. He was hoping to go directly to the doctor\u2019s home before revisiting the building, which held so many unhappy memories.<\/p>\n Joe entered the front door to the massive hospital. At least this time he walked in of his own accord and was not wheeled in as was the case in his first visit. Joe knew the way to the doctor\u2019s office, having spent many days inside of it discussing his treatment for the morphine withdrawal. As he turned down the final corridor, a nurse stopped Joe in the hall.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t believe it!\u201d She smiled and grabbed Joe\u2019s arm. \u201cJoe\u2014you look well!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe smiled at the woman who had been with him throughout his stay in the hospital. She was a big woman but had the grace of swan and the smile of an angel. \u201cNurse Hastings! Great to see you again!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI heard you were coming\u2014Doctor Peele will be so happy to see you!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be here awhile. Maybe I can buy you some coffee and we can talk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure, Joe. I\u2019d like that! Well, I\u2019ve got some unruly patients up on the next floor that I\u2019d better get to checking on!\u201d The nurse headed on her way and Joe made it to the doctor\u2019s office.<\/p>\n Joe paused briefly outside of the room trying to make sure he was truly all together in mind and composure. He knew the doctor was one person who could read him better than anyone in the world. Joe knocked on the door and the doctor called to come in.<\/p>\n \u201cHi, Doc!\u201d Joe smiled and walked over to where Doctor Peele sat behind his desk.<\/p>\n The doctor looked up and saw the smile he had missed so dreadfully. \u201cJoseph! I\u2019m so glad you could come!\u201d He exclaimed. Then he walked over and shook the young man\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n \u201cHey\u2014I\u2019m glad to be here! I missed you, and besides this trip took me away from a lot of chores!\u201d Joe laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, for whatever the reason, I am elated! I have to check on one more patient and then I have reservations for us at a very nice restaurant on the bay.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure, Doc! Sounds good. I\u2019ll just sit here and read.\u201d Joe grabbed a book off of the doctor\u2019s desk. \u201cYou know I never finished this anatomy book!\u201d Joe teased with the man knowing he never had any intentions of finishing the book in the first place.<\/p>\n Doctor Peele grinned at Joe and said, \u201cYou\u2019ll just have enough time to look at the pictures! I\u2019ll be right back!\u201d The doctor eluded to the fact that was all Joe had ever done with the anatomy book, simply look at the pictures.<\/p>\n That evening Joe and Doctor Peele were driven to the Mariner\u2019s Cafe, which overlooked the calm waters of San Francisco\u2019s Bay. It was a very formal dining room and Joe was glad that at the last stop with the stage line he had taken the time to put on his best suit. Both men sat at a table with glass windows, which gave a wonderful view of the waterfront. Their meals were brought out very quickly and the waiters were highly attentive and Joe marveled at the difference from the restaurants he was use to in Virginia City.<\/p>\n \u201cIt sure is beautiful here.\u201d Joe commented sipping some wine and looking out the window.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m glad you like it, Joseph. This has always been one of my favorite places. I use to come here all the time with my wife.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t know you were married.\u201d Joe said surprised as the doctor had never mentioned it.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, but she\u2019s been gone almost twenty-five years now.\u201d He replied sadly.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Doc.\u201d Joe didn\u2019t know what else to say.<\/p>\n Harold smiled and patted Joe on the arm. \u201cNo sad tales tonight! We are celebrating! Just think, Joseph, do you realize in about a month it will two years since you were first brought here? You have done so well that it does call for a celebration!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe frowned he didn\u2019t feel like he had accomplished all that much, especially considering what he had been through the previous spring. \u201cI don\u2019t know if we can really count it as two years, Doc. Maybe six months\u2014\u201d Joe trailed off.<\/p>\n \u201cNonsense! As far as I\u2019m concerned you took your first steps toward getting free of the morphine when you came here. What happened to you on your ranch is a whole other issue which never was any of your doing.\u201d Harold was insistent.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014well\u2014I have stayed away from the stuff\u2014that\u2019s for sure. But, sometimes the memories take me back and it\u2019s not pleasant.\u201d Joe sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe\u2014sometimes even those kinds of memories are for our own good. It\u2019s the mind\u2019s way of making sure we don\u2019t forget earlier hurts so we won\u2019t make the same mistakes or the same decisions that caused the pain.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe thought for awhile about what the doctor had said. It made sense to him, for maybe the first time. The memories that he fought against might really be there to help him. It seemed like such a simple answer but it held a lot of promise in Joe\u2019s mind.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, who\u2019s this patient you wrote Pa about? He said you thought I could help him?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAll in good time. Tonight we celebrate\u2014tomorrow we will discuss that!\u201d Doctor Peele refilled both glasses with wine. \u201cI would like to propose a toast.\u201d He said and he lifted his glass and Joe followed suit. \u201cTo what you have already learned\u2014and to what you will learn in the future!\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Joe didn\u2019t let on, but that toast did confuse him, however he touched glasses with the doctor and figured he would eventually find the answer to what Harold had said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After dinner that evening they took a drive along the coast<\/strong> and Joe enjoyed the view of the bay that was lit by lamps along its shoreline. It was shortly before ten that night when the carriage pulled up to the Peeles\u2019s residence. The house was much like Joe had imagined it to be. It was two stories with a stone facade and a cobblestone walkway, which led up to an ornate front porch.<\/p>\n Robert had already brought Joe\u2019s bags to the house earlier and he now led the way, opening the front door for the two men. Joe entered the foyer followed by Doctor Peele.<\/p>\n \u201cRobert has all your things up in your room. Why don\u2019t you come into the study and we\u2019ll talk for awhile before you turn in.\u201d Harold said as Joe looked at the surroundings. The walls were covered in oak planking and crystal lighting reflected off the marble floors.<\/p>\n \u201cYour home is incredible!\u201d Joe announced as he followed the doctor into the next room. In there he saw a huge fireplace that was already lit and the warmth filled the large room. He glanced up at the surrounding mantle that was an ornate parquetry. Then there was the huge, gold framed portrait, which graced the wall above the fireplace. That was what made Joe stand speechless.<\/p>\n Harold noted Joe\u2019s reaction to the picture of his son Daniel, he could only imagine what was going on in the young man\u2019s mind to be looking at a picture, which could have easily been of himself. Joe finally turned and his questioning eyes fell upon the doctor.<\/p>\n \u201cThat was my son Daniel.\u201d Harold stated, his own eyes going back and forth between Joe and the picture.<\/p>\n \u201cHe looks\u2014-\u201d Joe stopped and then sat down in the nearest chair. Harold sat across from him and continued Joe\u2019s broken statement. \u201cHe looks just like you! Yes, I know. Imagine my surprise the first day you were admitted to the hospital! You two could have easily been twins!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe\u2019s eyes fell back upon the portrait still amazed by it. \u201cYou said \u201cwas\u201d\u2014is Daniel\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Harold nodded, \u201cYes, Joseph, Daniel died five years ago. He had an incurable illness.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m so sorry\u2014\u201d Joe turned his view from the picture and over to the doctor. \u201cGee\u2014I hate to say this but\u2014this is kinda spooky\u2014you know?\u201d<\/p>\n Harold laughed at Joe\u2019s description of the circumstances. \u201cMaybe\u2014I probably should have told you in some other way, but couldn\u2019t think of how to bring it up. Do you believe in fate?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe thought a moment and then responded, \u201cWell, I guess\u2014Pa always said there was a reason for everything that happens. I guess that would be fate. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n Harold looked up again at the picture of his son and said, \u201cI didn\u2019t actually believe in fate until the day I met you. That was when I realized that, just as your father said, everything happens for a reason. You see, Joe\u2014\u201d The doctor paused and reached over and touched Joe\u2019s arm. \u201cHaving had the chance to save you in the hospital had to be fate, or divine intervention, whatever you want to call it. I felt so awful for so many years because I couldn\u2019t save my son when he lay dying\u2014but it was almost as if God gave me that chance when I helped you find your way back. You may even say that meeting you helped me find my own faith again.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe was deeply touched by what the doctor had related to him, it made him feel good to know in some way he had also helped Harold. He cleared his throat before beginning his response as he could feel the emotion in all that was happening. He could almost feel Daniel\u2019s gaze and it was as though there were three people there in the room instead of two. \u201cYou may not understand this, Doc, but hearing you say all this has really meant so much to me! I have fought with some pretty bad notions here lately. Some of those memories I told you that keep coming back on me. I even have had my own faith challenged\u2014especially when those two men forced me back on the morphine. I could not understand why I had to go through what I did. It seemed to me that God had been pretty unfair to have made me endure all that I had!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow has my telling you helped, Joseph?\u201d Harold quietly asked staring into Joe\u2019s bright green eyes that had filled with a certain intensity of their own.<\/p>\n \u201cIf I had to go through this\u2014all of this\u2014then at least something good came out of it! If meeting me\u2014as you said\u2014helped YOU find your faith\u2014or helped you in any other way\u2014then I feel it was worth it.\u201d<\/p>\n With Joe\u2019s words the doctor could almost hear the sound of the young man\u2019s first attempt at letting go of his struggle and pain. He knew that Joe really needed to find some inner peace and that it had been a long time in coming. Harold thought about the feeling in the room, just as he could tell Joe had. And, for a moment Harold felt as though he was talking to Daniel and not Joe. \u201cJoseph, it looks to me as though both you and I are still works in progress! We still have a ways to go\u2014but I\u2019m sure we will both get there. I am so thankful that you came here, I really needed to see you.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe smiled affectionately at the doctor and asked, \u201cSo\u2014tell me about Daniel! What was he like? What did he enjoy doing? I\u2019d really like to know!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold eased back in his chair just as Robert entered the room carrying a tray with two demitasse cups filled with imported coffee. Both men accepted the drinks gratefully and Harold spoke once more. \u201cDaniel was a very warm and caring young man. He enjoyed many things, he had a love of poetry and enjoyed writing some of his own as well. He was very intelligent and actually was in his second year of medical school here when he fell ill.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I guess we weren\u2019t much alike.\u201d Joe said somberly.<\/p>\n \u201cOn the contrary!\u201d Harold argued. \u201cHe had a fun side to him just as you\u2014and enjoyed practical jokes\u2014oh\u2014he loved to do that! Poor Robert fell victim many times to Daniel\u2019s rare sense of humor! And what about you? How many times did I find your nose buried in that book of poems?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe chuckled remembering how well the doctor watched him while in the hospital. \u201cOkay\u2014I concede\u2014don\u2019t tell my family though\u2014I wouldn\u2019t want them to think I was like my brother Adam! But, yeah, those poems helped me\u2014still do at times! But\u2014I never wrote anything! And as for being smart enough to go to medical school\u2014well that\u2019s definitely not me!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh\u2014I don\u2019t know about that! You don\u2019t give yourself much credit \u2014but I know you are intelligent! You have a quick mind, Joseph, and a willingness to learn.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014maybe\u2014\u201d Joe replied and thought again about the doctor\u2019s plan requiring him to meet with a patient. \u201cI know you said we\u2019d discuss that patient tomorrow\u2014but I\u2019d kinda like to know what it\u2019s all about\u2014one thing I am known for is my curious nature!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou have that in common with Daniel as well!\u201d The doctor laughed and continued, \u201cOkay, here\u2019s the situation. A patient by the name of Frank Myers was admitted four weeks ago. He is addicted to morphine. His case echoes yours in a way. He had a serious fall and suffered multiple fractures. He was put on the morphine and grew addicted, just as you did. He was on the drug longer than he should have been, but that had been the doctor\u2019s decision as several of the bones in his leg had to be reset more than once. He still will always walk with a limp, but medically he should be fine. His father brought him here and Frank has refused all help. He wants out\u2014even worse than you did! He is still in restraints and has a very violent streak to him. But, by this time, he should be calming down\u2014and he\u2019s not. His anger towards his family is extreme!\u201d<\/p>\n This was where Joe broke in, \u201cI can understand that, Doc. I was very mad at having been admitted to the hospital! Even in what I call my \u201ccrazy\u201d state\u2014I still remember the anger I felt.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know! And that is why I think you can help him! If you show him what you accomplished\u2014maybe, just maybe he will start trying. You have a way with people, Joseph! I\u2019ve seen it here and also when I visited you at your home. I really believe you could make a difference!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe smiled the same smile, which hung above the fireplace in the picture of Daniel. \u201cSure, Doc! I\u2019ll give it a try! If I can get over the uneasy feeling at the hospital!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou will\u2014I know you will!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014well\u2014you just watch out for me\u2014don\u2019t let anyone think I\u2019ve escaped and lock me back up!\u201d Joe\u2019s sense of humor came out and warmed the room more than the fire in the hearth. Both men finished their coffee. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to worry\u2014you will be fine. I will watch out for you in the hospital and throughout your stay here. I promised your father that. Now, I think you could use some sleep!\u201d The doctor stood as did Joe and they walked out of the study and toward the staircase. \u201cI will have Robert bring you to the hospital around noon tomorrow. That will give you time to get some rest and maybe see some sights.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSounds good! Well, goodnight!\u201d Joe patted the doctor\u2019s back and followed Robert up to the guest room. Harold Peele stood at the bottom of the long staircase and watched as Joe ascended the stairs. His heart felt full, a feeling he had not had in a long time. Laughter was in the house again, and Harold had forgotten what a wonderful sound it was.<\/p>\n Joe enjoyed a good night\u2019s sleep that evening and woke to coffee being served to him in his room by Robert. He thought of how he could easily get use to the pampering he was getting and figured he would enjoy it while it lasted. After he dressed and had eaten a very large breakfast, Robert drove him around the town and they stopped in several of the shops. By noon they made their way to the hospital and Joe met Harold in his office. \u201cWhat do you have there?\u201d Harold asked seeing a book Joe had carried into the room. Joe showed the doctor what he had bought at one of the shops and said, \u201cWell, since I\u2019m not a doctor I can\u2019t prescribe anything to help your patient\u2014so I did the next best thing.\u201d Joe smiled as the doctor looked at the title.<\/p>\n \u201cBest Loved Poetry\u201d Harold read out loud.<\/p>\n \u201cWorked for me!\u201d Joe laughed. \u201cBut if it doesn\u2019t help Frank\u2014I figured I could beat him over the head with it and knock some sense in to him!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold smiled at Joe\u2019s unusual idea of treatment but then turned suddenly serious. \u201cNow, Joseph, I don\u2019t want you taking any chances\u2014if he starts getting violent\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Joe broke in, \u201cHey! I\u2019m not the same kid I was two years ago you know! I can handle anything. Just take me to him!\u201d<\/p>\n The two men walked down the hallway that led to Frank Myers room. The doctor had the orderly unlock the door and turned to him and said, \u201cThis is Joseph Cartwright\u2014he is going to try to help Frank\u2014but if you hear any commotion that you deem is getting out of hand, you be sure and get Joe out of there!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOkay, Doc\u2014but I\u2019m warning you both, Frank is having one of the worst days he\u2019s had.\u201d The orderly opened the door and Joe and Harold stepped inside.<\/p>\n Joe\u2019s eyes fell on the patient in the bed. He looked maybe a year or two older than Joe and had short black hair and the stubble of a beard made him appear even older than he was. He shot the doctor and Joe an immediate look that showed that they were not welcomed. He fought at his restraints as Harold neared the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cYou know we could get those restraints off you a whole lot sooner if you would just start to cooperate with us!\u201d The doctor spoke softly but with a firmness in his words. Joe looked over at Harold remembering he had heard almost the same speech two years previous.<\/p>\n \u201cGo away!\u201d Frank yelled.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be in my office.\u201d Harold said to Joe and walked out of the room. The orderly re-locked the door and Joe sat down in the chair by the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd just who the Hell are you?\u201d Frank asked angrily.<\/p>\n Joe grinned at the man and responded, \u201cI am either going to be your best friend in the world or the worst nightmare you have ever had! The name\u2019s Joe, and I\u2019ve come here to talk with you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGo to Hell!\u201d Frank yelled and struggled once more with the padded restraints, which held him to the hospital bed.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve been there already, thank you! And it looks like you are there now. I can tell you how to get out if you will listen and stop acting like the whole world is against you!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do YOU know about it! It\u2019s easy for all of you to tell me what to do! Why don\u2019t you change places with me and see what it\u2019s like!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have been right where you are! As a matter of fact I was just fortunate enough to be there twice in one life time! So, I know what you are feeling and I know what you are thinking!\u201d Joe retorted with his own anger coming out in his words.<\/p>\n The man in the bed stared at Joe bewildered. How could anyone know what he was feeling, he thought. No-one could comprehend the torture of soul and mind and body that he was enduring. Joe saw the stare and knew Frank did not trust him to be telling the truth.<\/p>\n \u201cI was addicted to morphine\u2014as a matter of fact\u2014you could say I still am addicted to morphine!\u00a0\u00a0 But, I\u2019m off the damn stuff and you can be too! There is a light at the end of the tunnel but you are going to have to fight with all the guts you\u2019ve got to get through this!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI want out of here! That\u2019s all that I want! Unless you can get me out of here then you can just go away!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh\u2014I CAN get you out of here!\u201d Joe smiled and walked closer to the bed. \u201cBut, you are the one who will have to work for it! Then you can go back to your family!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI hate my family! They are the ones who put me here!\u201d Frank again yelled.<\/p>\n Joe sat down at the end of the bed and shook his head, his face softened its expression thinking of how he had spoke those same words. He remembered telling his father how he hated him for having him committed. Joe saw the same scene in his mind as he looked at the troubled man. \u201cI know that\u2019s how you feel now, Frank. I felt the same way. I despised my father for having brought me here! It was a long while before I realized that him leaving me here saved my life! I couldn\u2019t see that then, all I could see was that they were keeping me from what I wanted and that was morphine! It was all I cared about! If my family hadn\u2019t gotten me away from it I\u2019d be dead now.\u201d<\/p>\n Frank laughed sarcastically and said, \u201cI\u2019d rather be dead then in here! Tied to a bed, held against my will!\u201d He tugged at his restraints and Joe reached over to the head of the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cOh\u2014I can help you with that! I\u2019ll let you loose!\u201d Joe undid the restraints and stepped back. He watched as disbelief filled Frank\u2019s eyes. \u201cThey can be put right back on if you try something\u2014just remember that!\u201d Joe warned and sat back down in the chair and grabbed the book he had brought in the room. \u201cI brought you something\u2014\u201d He handed it to Frank, who looked at it and then said,<\/p>\n \u201cWhy would I want to read this? I hate poetry!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe laughed and replied, \u201cYeah\u2014me too! But just check it out, you might find something you can relate to! There\u2019s lots and lots of poems all about pain and suffering\u2014it will fit right in with what is going on in your mind! I\u2019ve even underlined a couple of them to get you started!\u201d<\/p>\n Frank tossed the book to the bottom of the bed. \u201cYou think you are so smart! Who do you think you are \u2014some kind of a doctor?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe shook his head and grinned, \u201cNo, Frank, I am a former addict! And who better to get all over you than someone who has been there already!\u201d<\/p>\n Frank made his move and jumped out of the bed and ran toward the door. Joe just sat there knowing that the door was locked from the outside. \u201cGetting a little exercise? Well, good! It will help\u2014go on\u2014run around the room a couple of times!\u201d Joe chided the man.<\/p>\n Frank walked back toward Joe, a noticeable limp to his gait. \u201cGet me out of here!\u201d He screamed and reached for Joe. Joe stood and grabbed the man\u2019s shoulders and shook him.<\/p>\n \u201cNo! Not until you learn what you have to about staying off the drug! If you got out of here now believe me you will head for the first place you can get the stuff! It\u2019s not just getting it out of your system\u2014that\u2019s already started\u2014it\u2019s getting it out of your head!\u201d<\/p>\n Frank shoved Joe hard up against the wall, his strength was greatly increased by his desire for freedom. Joe stared into the man\u2019s eyes and spoke quietly. \u201cYou want to hit me, Frank? Would that help? Then go ahead\u2014take your best shot!\u201d<\/p>\n Frank reared back and threw a punch, which Joe easily blocked with his arm. \u201cIs that as good as you can do?\u201d Joe laughed angering the man more. He tried again, and again Joe blocked him.<\/p>\n \u201cYou know\u2014I bet if you were more in control of yourself you probably could mop the floor with me!\u201d Joe acknowledged the man\u2019s height and weight which surpassed his own. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you try to fight your way out of the addiction and we\u2019ll try this again sometime?\u201d Joe asked and the man stepped back. Joe sat back down in the chair and pretended the whole incident had not taken place. \u201cFrank, I know a good one! How about reading \u201cOde to a Nightingale\u201d? It is in there\u2014let\u2019s see if I can remember it!<\/p>\n My heart aches and a drowsy numbness pains my sense as though of hemlock I had drunk, or emptied some dull opiate to the drains\u2014\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Joe started his recital and Frank limped back over to the bed. He sat back and listened to Joe\u2019s words, then he picked up the book and thumbed through it. Joe kept an eye on the man and in his heart he felt some triumph in what he had already accomplished on his first visit.<\/p>\n By the time Joe was ready to leave Frank\u2019s room late that afternoon the man had quieted down considerably. As Joe turned to leave Frank called over to him, \u201cWhat about the restraints? Are they going to put them back on?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe smiled and laughed, \u201cWell, I guess that is up to you, Frank! If you try to run out of here then looks like they\u2019re gonna put them back on. Believe me I did my share of that when I was in here! If you try not to act up too much I\u2019ll see if we can finally get them to leave them off permanently. But, I\u2019m telling you these folks here don\u2019t play around! They\u2019ve got a whole hospital full of patients and it\u2019s easier for them if the restraints stay on! You decide which way you want it, I\u2019ll mention it to Doctor Peele.\u201d Joe knocked on the door for the orderly and the door was then unlocked.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe!\u201d Frank called before he left the room and Joe turned back around.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou gonna come back?\u201d Frank asked.<\/p>\n Joe looked at the man\u2019s face and saw the beginning of trust displayed on it. \u201cSure, Frank\u2014it\u2019s been a whole lot of fun!\u201d Joe joked and waved goodbye.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n That evening Joe discussed with Doctor Peele<\/strong> what had gone on with Frank that afternoon. The two men sat at the long formal dining table and ate their supper while discussing what to do next. \u201cWell, Joseph, I am glad that you informed the orderly and the head nurse about taking Frank\u2019s restraints off. We will see how that goes for awhile. Maybe you have won his trust already?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe sat down his wine glass and replied, \u201cI hope so\u2014you know I saw so much of myself in Frank! Maybe it was the fact that I was talking to him out of my own experience that got through to him? At least I hope so.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe still has a long way to go. I hope you can stay long enough to see him through to completion of his treatment.\u201d The doctor stare caught Joe by surprised. He didn\u2019t realize that starting to help Frank would be a long commitment.<\/p>\n \u201cDoc\u2014I only planned to stay two weeks\u2014\u201d Joe started and noticed a glimmer of disappointment in the man\u2019s eyes. \u201cBut, I guess I could stay awhile longer\u2014maybe a month. I\u2019ll have to let Pa know though.\u201d Joe conceded.<\/p>\n \u201cThat would be wonderful! Although I must admit it\u2019s selfish on my part\u2014not just wanting help with Frank, but also wanting to spend some time with you showing you around. I have taken some time off Saturday and I thought we would go check out the scenery and maybe take in a play?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe smiled watching how the Doctor seemed to be so anxious to have him stay awhile longer. \u201cSounds good, Doc! I\u2019ll write Pa and let him know. I have some other ideas on how I might help Frank\u2014and it would be kinda nice to see some sights since I\u2019m rarely out this way.\u2019<\/p>\n \u201cFine\u2014I\u2019ll have Robert get us the tickets tomorrow for the play and we\u2019ll make a whole day of it!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe stood from his chair and said, \u201cI think I\u2019ll turn in now. Goodnight.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGoodnight, Joseph.\u201d The doctor smiled as he watched the young man depart for his room.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n That night Joe tossed and turned with all kinds of dreams.<\/strong> Visions of past events all merged with current events into one long nightmare. He saw himself in the hospital bed tied in restraints and then he saw Frank tied in the restraints. One minute Joe was trying desperately to escape the hospital and the next it was Frank fighting Joe to escape. Joe finally awoke with a start, his heart racing and his breathing heavy. He sat up in his bed and looked around at confused surroundings. He then remembered where he was and started to calm down. It was at that moment that he saw a sight he would never forget.<\/p>\n There, next to the bureau he saw a young man staring wistfully at him. It was Daniel! Joe rubbed at his eyes trying to wake himself, but something inside told him he was wide awake.<\/p>\n \u201cDaniel?\u201d Joe\u2019s whispered voice called out to the figure.<\/p>\n The form of Daniel seemed to move as if it was floating across the room. Joe felt a cold breeze and a chill that went straight through him. And then, just as suddenly as the apparition had appeared he was gone! Joe pulled the covers up around him wondering exactly what he had witnessed there in the room. He knew he would not be able to fall back to sleep, but he laid back against the pillows deep in thought.<\/p>\n Joe wondered if it had indeed been Daniel. And, if so, should he speak about it to Doctor Peele? Joe decided that would be unwise. Firstly, he didn\u2019t want to cause Harold any pain from the idea of his son now being an apparition. Secondly, he didn\u2019t want his own sanity to be challenged by Harold or anyone else! And speaking of ghosts or whatever he had witnessed, would surely make people wonder if Joe hadn\u2019t actually gone off the deep end.<\/p>\n For the next week Joe became more and more comfortable in his new surroundings and he was making some real head-way with Frank Myers. He had gotten the man to open up to him about his feelings and also his fears. The restraints had now been permanently removed and Frank had calmed down greatly.<\/p>\n Joe had also become more at ease with his feelings at the doctor\u2019s house. There had been a couple sleepless nights since he had witnessed what he was sure was the ghost of Daniel Peele, but Joe had resigned himself to the knowledge that if it was Daniel then he didn\u2019t mean any harm. Joe did not speak to the doctor about Daniel\u2019s appearance but the doctor did notice how Joe, at times, stared strangely at Daniel\u2019s portrait in the study.<\/p>\n The doctor had just arrived home after an extremely long day and found Joe reading in the study. \u201cHave you eaten already?\u201d Harold asked sitting down next to his guest. Joe looked up from his book. \u201cYeah\u2014but Robert has yours still waiting for you. You put in an awfully long day, Doc! You must be exhausted!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold laughed. \u201cJoe, I\u2019m used to long days\u2014and nights for that matter! It\u2019s partly my fault anyway\u2014getting all tied up with the final plans for the addition to the hospital. All that paper work just boggles the mind!\u201d The doctor poured himself some brandy and noticed again how Joe\u2019s eyes gazed upon Daniel\u2019s picture. \u201cIs something bothering you, Joseph?\u201d He asked.<\/p>\n Joe broke his stare and looked over at Harold. \u201cNo\u2014I\u2019m fine. Hey did Nurse Hastings tell you that Frank and I sat in the solarium awhile today? We even played some checkers!\u201d Joe smiled pleased with his progress.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I heard! That is wonderful! I told you that you have a way with people, Joe. As a matter of fact I wanted to discuss that very thing with you tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh?\u201d Joe wondered what the doctor was referring to.<\/p>\n \u201cI want you to think about what I am going to say. Don\u2019t give me an answer right away. I have talked with several of my colleagues, and we think you would make an excellent candidate for medical school.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe looked shocked, he couldn\u2019t believe anyone would think he was that smart! \u201cMe?\u201d<\/p>\n Harold smiled and responded, \u201cYes, you! Why so surprised? All it takes is some studying and the desire! You handle people so well, that is a gift that you have.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014Doc\u2014but medical school? I had trouble getting out of grade school!\u201d Joe laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t sell yourself short, Joseph. It would take time, but if you decide it\u2019s something that you really want I will help you all the way. We have a very good medical school here and you could stay right here with me while you attend. Who knows? Someday there might be a position for you at St. Francis?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe\u2019s mind swirled with all that the doctor had said. He felt very honored that the doctor would even think he was smart enough to attend medical school! But, he wasn\u2019t sure if that was the path he wanted to take with his life. There was still the ranch, his father and his brothers to consider. Joe stood from his chair and put his hand on Harold\u2019s shoulder. \u201cThanks, Doc. I promise I\u2019ll think about it. Give me some time to think it through. I appreciate your faith in me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, but you must also have faith in yourself, Joseph.\u201d He added.<\/p>\n Joe nodded. \u201cThat I\u2019m still working on! I\u2019d better turn in. You need to go get your supper before Robert gets mad!\u201d Joe smiled and the doctor walked with him to the staircase. Joe headed for his room and Harold walked to the dining-room.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam Cartwright dismounted in front of the house.<\/strong> He opened his saddlebags and drew out the mail that he had gotten that day from Virginia City. Adam walked into the house and called up the stairs for his father. \u201cHey\u2014Pa! You got a letter from Joe!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben appeared at the top of the staircase. \u201cWell\u2014it\u2019s about time!\u201d Ben exclaimed as a smile took over his face at the thought of the letter. Surely it would be Joseph announcing his arrival plans! The boy had already been gone over a month and his absence from the home was greatly felt by each remaining member. Ben retrieved the letter from his eldest son and walked over to the fireplace and sat to read it.<\/p>\n Adam watched as the smile that had been on his father\u2019s face turned in to a deep frown. \u201cWhen\u2019s he coming home?\u201d Adam asked and Ben shook his head his anger surfacing.<\/p>\n \u201cAccording to this he\u2019s not! At least no time soon!\u201d Ben showed uncharacteristic anger and crumpled the letter in his fist.<\/p>\n Adam, shocked to see this kind of response in his father asked again, \u201cWhat do you mean? What reason did he give?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stood and began pacing, he\u2019d had enough of his youngest son\u2019s independence. He felt that Joseph needed to be brought back, forcefully if need be. \u201cHe has some crazy idea that he might go to medical school!\u201d Ben countered back.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Little Joe? I can\u2019t believe it!\u201d Adam thought for a moment and then continued, \u201cOh\u2014he\u2019s just joshing you \u2014he just is having a whole lot of fun and wants to stay longer!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stared into Adam\u2019s concerned eyes and said, \u201cNo, he\u2019s serious. It seems that Doctor Peele has told Joseph that if he wants to attend medical school he will help him and that he can stay there with him. The doctor thinks since Joe\u2019s done such a great job helping that patient he\u2019s been working with that he would be a good doctor.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSeems to me like the good doctor wants Joe to stay there for other reasons.\u201d Adam added suspiciously. Ben read Adam\u2019s thoughts, and they were much like his own thoughts at the time. He had discussed with both Adam and Hoss what he had learned from Harold about his son Daniel. Both Adam and Ben now felt like Harold was finding Joseph a fitting replacement for his own son.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know what to do.\u201d Ben said sitting on the coffee table staring into the flames of the fireplace. \u201cI could go and force Joseph home\u2014but what if this is REALLY his calling in life? What right do I have to interfere with that?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam sat down next to his father and put his arm around his shoulder. \u201cPa, this kinda reminds me of when I was going away to college, remember? You were so worried that I wouldn\u2019t be coming back!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded and responded, \u201cYes\u2014I remember, Son. But your brother\u2014he\u2019s so different from you! He\u2019s so easily led at times! I worry about him making this decision based on his feelings for Harold and not on what he truly wants out of his life!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJoe\u2019s still a kid in a lot of ways, but, he has a good head on his shoulders! He will make the right choice!\u201d Adam tried to sound more sure of his brother than he really was.<\/p>\n \u201cSo\u2014you think I shouldn\u2019t go get him?\u201d Ben questioned looking back at his eldest.<\/p>\n \u201cWait\u2014Pa! Now I never said that!\u201d Adam laughed. \u201cI\u2019m just saying to let him make his own choice\u2014but that doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t go and see him! Maybe talk with him\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll think on it.\u201d Ben agreed and reached over to the letter. \u201cJoe said he was unsure of what he wanted to do. Maybe if I give him a couple more weeks\u2014\u201d Ben trailed off and began to smooth the letter out, trying to release the emotion that it had brought.<\/p>\n Ben Cartwright went to bed early that night, full of thoughts concerning his youngest son. He fell into a deep troubled sleep. He pictured Joe standing on a hill and every time Ben walked closer to him Joe got farther and father away until he totally disappeared. Ben woke up suddenly and stared at the clock at his bedside. It was only two a.m. and he wished it was already time to get up. As he started to close his eyes once more he caught sight of someone standing over by his window. \u201cWho\u2019s there?\u201d He called at the intruder. The figure by the window was partly illuminated by the full moon outside. It looked like Joseph! But, Ben thought, it wasn\u2019t exactly like Joseph! Something was different. Then Ben thought back on the picture he had seen of Harold\u2019s son Daniel. It was at that moment that the realization hit Ben that he was looking at the image of the doctor\u2019s deceased son. \u201cDaniel?\u201d Ben whispered still wondering if he was dreaming.<\/p>\n \u201cYou need to go to Joseph.\u201d<\/em> Daniels voice sounded far away and yet was understandable.<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph?\u201d Ben asked bewildered. The apparition started to fade and the words came one more time before the image faded into the wall. \u201cYou need to go to Joseph.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Ben swung his legs to the side of his bed and grabbed his robe. He put it on and headed toward the window and looked around. He could find nothing where the figure had been. The only thing that remained of the experience was the sudden chill in the room. It was at that moment that Ben Cartwright made the decision to leave for San Francisco the very next day.<\/p>\n Three days had passed since Ben Cartwright\u2019s spectral visit with what appeared to be Daniel Peele. He had boarded the stagecoach for San Francisco and was on the last leg of his journey. His thoughts were of his son Joseph and what the message that Daniel had given him had been about. Ben had not mentioned the apparition to either Hoss or Adam. He just gave them the excuse that he wanted to have a long talk with their brother and then he had left hastily.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n That same day Joe sat in Doctor Peele\u2019s office<\/strong> talking again with him about Frank Myers. \u201cThanks for agreeing with me on this one, Doc.\u201d Joe nodded toward Harold.<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph, you have worked wonders with Frank already! He\u2019s only been here two months now and He is just about at the point where we can release him soon.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know that seeing his father today is going to be kinda tough on him. I appreciate you letting him see Frank even though you usually give it more time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cEach case is different, Joseph. I\u2019m sure you are thinking about the long four months before you got to see your father. Am I right?\u201d Harold asked walking over to where Joe sat.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014that was a long time. I am not questioning your methods\u2014it\u2019s just, having talked in length with Frank about it, I think that if he can get over this hurdle that he will be able to handle anything on the outside.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYour case was different, though. We had to get you to the point where you were sure of yourself before addressing the issue of the problem you had with Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe again nodded. \u201cWhat ever you did\u2014well, it worked! And I only hope that Frank\u2019s visit with his father goes well today!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJoe\u2014I haven\u2019t asked you lately\u2014but have you decided about medical school?\u201d Harold almost was afraid to ask, for he longed for Joe to stay in San Francisco with him.<\/p>\n \u201cI think I know what I want now. I was hoping we could discuss that tonight.\u201d Joe said and stood up. Harold nodded his understanding. It was obvious that Joe wasn\u2019t quite ready to tell him what he had decided.<\/p>\n \u201cTonight will be fine.\u201d Harold replied.<\/p>\n Joe walked to the door and said, \u201cI promised Frank I would stop and see him before his father gets here. Better go\u2014I\u2019ll see you tonight!\u201d Joe opened the door and headed down the corridor to Frank\u2019s room.<\/p>\n Joe walked inside Frank\u2019s room just as Frank was done putting on his shirt to ready himself for his visit with his family. \u201cFrank! You sure do clean up well!\u201d Joe laughed seeing the man in street clothes and freshly shaven for the first time. Frank returned Joe\u2019s smile and replied, \u201cI\u2019m nervous as all get out! My Pa will be here any time now. Joe\u2014I don\u2019t know exactly what to say to him!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe walked over to the chair by the bed and sat down. His thoughts went back to when he had faced his own father for the first time. He remembered so well Ben standing there in Doctor Peele\u2019s office and his own sudden feeling of fear. Fear of what he had done fear for what he had caused the whole family. Then Joe remembered his father\u2019s unconditional love that he had shown. Joe prayed that Frank\u2019s father would do just that for Frank. Give him the same unconditional love.<\/p>\n \u201cHey, it\u2019s your Pa for goodness sake!\u201d Joe made light of the situation. \u201cIt\u2019s not some stranger\u2014you\u2019ll do just fine!\u201d Joe tried to reassure the man who had become a good friend to him.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, well the last time I saw him I was screaming at him!\u201d Frank said remorsefully.<\/p>\n \u201cYou know I told you that very same thing about my Pa\u2014remember? Now if he could forgive ME\u2014then I\u2019m sure your Pa will forgive YOU! After all\u2014at least you didn\u2019t knock your Pa out like I did!\u201d Joe was surprised by the words that had come out of his mouth. He had said it so nonchalantly that it suddenly didn\u2019t seem as awful as it had in the past.<\/p>\n Maybe helping Frank had been the therapy he had needed all along. It was the first time Joe had thought about the fact that Ben had forgiven him, and he wondered if the problem in his mind was the fact that he, himself had not gotten to the forgiveness stage. Joe realized at that moment that he had to learn to forgive himself for all that had happened or he never would truly be over his ordeal.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe\u2014I can\u2019t thank you enough for helping me.\u201d Frank said and sat down on the side of the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014you and I have come a long way! You may not understand this, Frank, but you have helped me too! Being with you helped me work out some things in my own mind.\u201d<\/p>\n Frank picked up the book of poetry that Joe had given him more than a month ago. He turned to a page and looked back at Joe and asked, \u201cWhat do you think this poem means, Joe?<\/p>\n No man is an island , entire of itself, <\/em><\/p>\n every man is a piece of the continent, <\/em><\/p>\n a part of the main?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Joe sat and thought a minute and then answered, \u201cWell, I told you before, Frank, I am no poet\u2014nor much of a scholar\u2014but to me it means that we are a piece of something that is greater than ourselves. That we belong to something bigger than just our own lives.\u201d<\/p>\n Frank nodded that he understood just as a knock came on the door. Frank looked at Joe with dread in his eyes and Joe gave another reassuring smile. \u201cCome in!\u201d Joe called and in walked Frank Myers father. Frank stood from his bed and walked awkwardly toward the man. Before he could get all the way to him the man met him and embraced him. Joe felt tears form in his eyes and stood and silently left the room closing the door behind him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben Cartwright remembered the way down the long corridor,<\/strong> which led to Harold Peele\u2019s office. After three long days journey, Ben felt an urgency to see his son and felt that by finding Harold he would probably find Joseph as well. He stood outside the doctor\u2019s door wondering just what he would say to the both of them. Ben knocked on the door and Harold called for him to come in.<\/p>\n \u201cBen!\u201d Harold was surprised to see Joe\u2019s father. \u201cI didn\u2019t know you were coming!\u201d He walked over to shake Ben\u2019s hand. He led him to the chairs and they both sat down.<\/p>\n \u201cI received Joseph\u2019s letter and have been very concerned about him.\u201d Ben started.<\/p>\n \u201cI can assure you that he is well and happy. He has done a truly remarkable job with that patient I wrote to you about.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s this about medical school, Harold? Do you think he really wants to do that\u2014become a doctor?\u201d Ben\u2019s gaze took him from Harold\u2019s face and then over to the picture of Daniel behind the doctor\u2019s desk.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s not sure yet, Ben. And I have not pressured him.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stood and walked over to Daniel\u2019s picture. \u201cYou are not trying to make Joe into a copy of Daniel are you?\u201d He asked trying not to be too hurtful with his question.<\/p>\n Harold walked over to Ben and looked also at the picture. \u201cNo, Ben. I know that he is your son, not mine. But, if Joe wants to try medical school I will be happy to help. I know what you are thinking, and I guess if situations were reversed I would think the same thing. But, I care deeply about Joe and only want what is absolutely best for him.\u201d Harold spoke in earnest and Ben nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry if I came off angrily\u2014I\u2019m not. I just miss my son. I want what is best for him as well. I was just hoping he would choose his life on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe both need to let him make the choice himself.\u201d Harold replied.<\/p>\n Joe stepped out of Frank Myers room feeling at peace with all he had done for the man. Frank was now in the loving arms of his father and Joe knew the healing had begun. Joe felt a tinge of regret that he couldn\u2019t be with his own father at the moment. He had the sudden urge to go home. Just then, there was a loud commotion down at the nurse\u2019s station and Joe ran down the long corridor. When he got there he saw a man who had his arm around Nurse Hastings neck and held a scalpel under her chin. \u201cGet me what I want!\u201d He yelled to the other nurse.<\/p>\n \u201cAll the medicine is under lock and key\u2014I don\u2019t have the key!\u201d She protested.<\/p>\n \u201cGet it or she dies!\u201d The man threatened.<\/p>\n Joe\u2019s mind filled with wild thoughts of what he could do to save the nurse and get the patient with the knife away from her. He slowly walked toward them. \u201cHey\u2014look\u2014I\u2019ll get you anything you want\u2014just let her go! I\u2019ve got the keys right here!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe said and lifted the set of house keys that Harold had given him. The man stared at Joe unconvinced. \u201cC\u2019mon\u2014let her go and we\u2019ll get you whatever you want!\u201d Joe insisted.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019d better be telling the truth!\u201d The man said and released the nurse.<\/p>\n \u201cJust come with me.\u201d Joe pointed down the hall.<\/p>\n \u201cThe cabinet they keep it in is down here.\u201d The man with the scalpel walked closely behind Joe. Joe\u2019s intentions were to get the man as far away from the nurses as possible before jumping him. They were almost to the end of the hall when two orderlies rounded the corner and the man panicked. He jumped for Joe who turned to try and stop the attack.<\/p>\n The man plunged the scalpel into Joe\u2019s side and dug in. Joe collapsed to the floor just as the two orderlies got to the man and freed the weapon from his hand. Then there were the screams from the two nurses as they made their way to Joe\u2019s side. As the two orderlies subdued the attacker two more orderlies joined them after hearing the screams. \u201cQuick! One of you get a stretcher out here\u2014one of you get Doctor Peele! Hurry!\u201d<\/p>\n The two orderlies went in opposite directions and Nurse Hastings cradled Joe\u2019s head in her lap. \u201cYou hang in there, Joe! You are going to be all right!\u201d She tried to reassure her friend but she could see the life\u2019s blood draining rapidly from him. He tried to smile but the room started to spin and he felt very light headed.<\/p>\n Down two corridors stood Ben Cartwright and Doctor Peele. They had just left his office in search of Joe when the orderly ran toward them. \u201cQuick, Doc! Joe Cartwright has been stabbed!\u201d He yelled and Ben and Harold both felt as though the wind had been knocked out of them. They hurried down the two corridors not knowing what had happened nor what they would find.<\/p>\n Joe was being lifted onto a stretcher as Harold and Ben reached the main corridor. \u201cWhat\u2019s happened!\u201d Harold demanded looking at the large laceration that went across Joe\u2019s abdomen.<\/p>\n \u201cThat new patient\u2014he broke his restraints and put a scalpel to my neck when Joe came and jumped him!\u201d The nurse tried to explain while she continued to apply pressure to Joe\u2019s wound.<\/p>\n Ben reached out to his son who looked to have a fatal wound. \u201cJoseph!\u201d He exclaimed.<\/p>\n Joe opened his eyes briefly and saw his father there next to him. \u201cPa.\u201d He whispered and then lost consciousness.<\/p>\n \u201cHurry! We need to get him to the operating room\u2014we\u2019re losing him!\u201d Doctor Peele yelled and they hurried him down the hallway.<\/p>\n Both Ben Cartwright and Harold Peele sat in the waiting room. They had both taken turns pacing the floor for more than an hour waiting for some word as to Joe\u2019s condition.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s got two of the finest surgeons with him, Ben.\u201d Harold try to reassure his friend.<\/p>\n \u201cYou saw his wound\u2014what do you think?\u201d Ben asked barely audible. Harold sat back down and sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, this is Joseph we are talking about, remember? The kid who beats all of the odds! It\u2019s bad, Ben. I won\u2019t lie to you. If they can stop the bleeding in time\u2014\u201d Harold trailed off not wanting to give Ben any more cause for worry then necessary. As a doctor, Harold knew that Joe\u2019s injury was a grave one. He prayed that God would not take Joe from either of them that night.<\/p>\n \u201cHere I was worrying about Joseph leaving me to go to medical school\u2014and now\u2014I just want him alive and well. No matter what he wants to do with his life.\u201d Ben was now on the verge of tears.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019ll make it, Ben. He has to!\u201d Harold touched Ben\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n It was almost two hours later that another doctor appeared coming out of the operating room\u2019s door. He walked over to the two men and spoke, \u201cIt\u2019s been a long complicated surgery, and Joe has lost a great deal of blood. We\u2019ve done the best we can.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs he going to be all right?\u201d Both men asked in unison.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t want to be blunt\u2014-\u201d The surgeon stopped in mid-sentence.<\/p>\n \u201cTell us.\u201d Doctor Peele replied adamantly.<\/p>\n \u201cI give him a fifty-fifty chance at best. If I were you I would do some serious praying tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben and Harold exchanged worried expressions.<\/p>\n \u201cWhere\u2019s my son?\u201d Ben asked trying to get his voice to stop from quivering.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have him up in a room. Second floor, room two thirteen. You both can go up and stay with him. The next twenty-four hours will be most critical.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you.\u201d Ben said and shook the surgeons hand knowing he had tried his best to save his son.<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Cartwright\u2014I will say a prayer for your son.\u201d The doctor nodded and turned to leave.<\/p>\n Ben sat down in the chair at the head of his son\u2019s hospital bed. He reached over and stroked Joe\u2019s exposed cheek. He seemed so very cold and pale. Ben wondered why his son had to go through all the trials and tribulations that he had in his short life-time! It just didn\u2019t seem fair! Here, once again, Joe had risked his own life to save that of another\u2019s.<\/p>\n Ben ran his fingers through the hair on Joe\u2019s forehead and remembered all the times he had fussed at the boy for growing his hair so long. It seemed like a pointless thing to have been worried about now! Ben prayed that Joe would survive his injury and not let all the suffering of the past two years have been a waste.<\/p>\n Ben knew that his son deserved better than what life had given him, especially recently. He wondered if this had been Joe\u2019s last month of life, that how tragic that it had been spent away from his family! No, he couldn\u2019t think that way! Ben had to hang on to what they had all come to know as Joe\u2019s strong desire to live and overcome all odds!<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph\u2014I\u2019m right here. Keep fighting!\u201d Ben whispered and bent down and kissed Joe\u2019s forehead. It would prove to be a long night of waiting.<\/p>\n Joe looked at his surroundings, he felt so odd, as if he were detached from the weight of his body. All he could see was a vast blueness, which encompassed him. He walked through the ethereal mist, which floated around him. Far in the cloudy distance, Joe could see a figure approaching him. He walked toward the vision and was soon staring at what he believed to be Daniel Peele. Daniel\u2019s smile glowed as he met Joe\u2019s eyes. \u201cDaniel\u2014am I \u2014am I dead?\u2019 Joe\u2019s voice sounded as if it were echoing against the mist.<\/p>\n \u2018No, Joe. You are in between right now. Look down!\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n Joe\u2019s eyes followed Daniel\u2019s gaze and the mist parted and Joe could view his body laying in the hospital room. He could see his father there next to him holding his hand. \u201cWhy am I here?\u201d Joe asked trying to take it all in.<\/p>\n \u201cYou were sent here for a reason. I have some things to show you and then it will be up to you if you want to go back.\u201d<\/em> Daniel responded and in less than an instant both Joe and Daniel were standing high on a mountain top. Joe looked down at the land below. He saw trees and land and the azure blue of a lake. \u201cDo you know where we are?\u201d<\/em> Daniel asked pointing off into the distance. Joe could feel the wind and smell the trees and in his mind he knew where Daniel had taken him.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s the Ponderosa\u2014it\u2019s my home.\u201d Joe responded feeling an intense happiness at the sight.<\/p>\n \u201cYou left all this behind\u2014 you went to stay with my father and you were considering a life there.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Before Joe could say anything he was whisked away and now looked down from the top stairs of the ranch house. He saw his brothers sitting by the fireplace and heard them talking about how they missed him. He saw Adam show Hoss the letter that his father had crumpled in frustration that Joe was not planning on coming back.<\/p>\n Joe was filled with sadness, both his family\u2019s and his own. \u201cI wanted to go home, Daniel\u2014I was going to tell your father before\u2014-\u201d Joe paused and tried to feel his stomach. He remembered now the attack by the man in the hospital. He remembered the pain as the scalpel ripped through his abdomen. \u201cWill I get to come home, Daniel\u2014or is this the end? Is my life through?\u201d<\/p>\n Again Daniel brought Joe to another place. It was outside the hospital room where he saw Harold Peele pace back and forth. \u201cDo you know why you have gone through all the trials in your life, Joseph?\u201d <\/em>Daniel asked and Joe shook his head still looking down at the bereaved doctor. \u201cNo\u2014I don\u2019t know\u2014I don\u2019t have any idea. It doesn\u2019t make sense.\u201d Joe said remembering all the pain of the past two years. All the things he had to endure in his fight to end his addiction. Daniel pointed at his own father and said to Joe. \u201cYou have touched many lives\u2014even through your own pain\u2014there was purpose in it! You saved a young girl from a fire, you saved the nurse this very day! You brought back hope and love into my father\u2019s life. And look there!\u2019<\/em> Daniel pointed down the hallway where they could see Frank Myers walking with his arm around his father. \u201cSee? Who is to say that would have happened if you hadn\u2019t interceded?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cSo\u2014it wasn\u2019t a waste then\u2014there was some good in all of it?\u201d Joe could feel his heart take on the sense of joy.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s never a waste, Joseph\u2014life is never a waste! There is a purpose for each soul that comes down to Earth. No matter if they are there an hour or a hundred years!\u201d<\/em> Daniel\u2019s smile reflected a great knowledge that he had been given and the warmth in it calmed Joe\u2019s spirit.<\/p>\n \u201cYou said I have to decide?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDo you want to go back there?\u201d<\/em> Daniel asked and again they looked down at his body laying on the bed. \u201cThere\u2019s pain there, Joseph. Is it worth going back to it?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Joe could see the tears that coursed down his father\u2019s face and his desire to return despite any pain that would be involved was great. \u201cMy father needs me, Daniel! I can\u2019t leave him now. There\u2019s more I have to do!\u201d Joe pleaded with Daniel.<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s bound to be more pain, more heartache\u2014are you sure you wouldn\u2019t rather stay here? You would be free from all of it?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cI want to go back.\u201d Joe cried.<\/p>\n \u201cThen, you can return. I do have a favor to ask you\u2014I won\u2019t be seeing you again\u2014at least not for a long while!\u201d<\/em> Daniel again took Joe to where Harold Peele stood outside the hospital room.<\/p>\n \u201cAnything.\u201d Joe agreed.<\/p>\n \u201cMy father\u2014there are two things I want you to tell him. First tell him to bring the locket that is on my bureau\u2014bring it to the hospital to show your father. Then tell him I left him a letter\u2014it\u2019s in my Bible\u2014he never found it. It will help him to find some peace. I love him so\u2014tell him!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cI will.\u201d Joe said and all of a sudden he felt himself weighted down as if he was falling. He groaned as he was once again reunited with his injured body. Then there was the pain, the mortal pain of his incision, which he could feel.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben stared at his son.<\/strong> He had been so quiet, so still for the entire night that his sudden moan of pain came unexpectedly. Ben reached for Joe\u2019s arm and tried to bring him around. \u201cJoseph\u2014can you hear me?\u201d He asked and could detect the very faintest movement in his son\u2019s eyelids. But no further response came. Ben walked to the door and looked down the corridor. He had hoped he would see Harold out there. He then turned back to the bed. Joe was once again still, no further sign of him coming around. Ben sighed and sat down in the chair again.<\/p>\n Doctor Peele arrived back at Joe\u2019s hospital room at six a.m. the next morning. He had been up all night discussing Joe\u2019s condition and possible treatment for his injury. He walked over to Ben who still kept his vigil along side of his son. \u201cHere.\u201d Harold said and handed Ben a cup of coffee.<\/p>\n Ben accepted it and stood to stretch. \u201cThanks\u2014I sure can use it!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAny change?\u201d The doctor asked as he reached out to check Joe\u2019s pulse.<\/p>\n \u201cOne time\u2014it sounded like he was coming around. But, then he went back under. He is breathing so shallow I can barely hear him.\u201d<\/p>\n Doctor Peele pulled down the covers and checked Joe\u2019s bandages. He looked at the incision and it was the first time Ben had actually seen how massive the cut was. Ben winced at the sight and from the discoloration on his son\u2019s stomach.<\/p>\n \u201cThe bleeding has stopped\u2014that\u2019s a good sign. If he can just fight back from the blood loss\u2014that will be the key to his recovery.\u201d Harold took a seat next to Ben. \u201cYou want to go lie down in the other room? I\u2019ll watch Joe for awhile.\u201d He offered and Ben shook his head somberly.<\/p>\n \u201cI need to be here when he comes around.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBen\u2014that could be some time!\u201d Harold argued but found his friend to be just as stubborn as his son Joseph.<\/p>\n \u201cI doubt Joseph even knows I\u2019m here, \u201cBen paused and reached again for the boy\u2019s hand and held it in his own. \u201cI wish I could let him know.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe knows, Ben. Somewhere inside he knows.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben thought for a moment about the reason why he had decided so suddenly to make the trip to San Francisco\u2014he remembered the apparition of Daniel and the message to go to Joseph! He looked into Harold\u2019s eyes and said, \u201cHarold, I don\u2019t know if I should tell you this\u2014you might think that I am crazy\u2014\u201d Ben stopped and wondered if he should continue.<\/p>\n Harold reached over to Ben and replied, \u201cGo on\u2014what were you going to tell me?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI had a dream, at least I thought it was a dream\u2014the night before I left to come here. In it Daniel told me to come to Joseph. It seemed so real\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Harold smiled and nodded. \u201cI\u2019ve had those same kinds of dreams myself, Ben. In them Daniel is always trying to tell me something\u2014but I always wake up before finding out what it is!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stared over at his son, he couldn\u2019t imagine life without him. \u201cJoe and Daniel\u2014they are so much alike\u2014maybe there is some reason for all of this\u2014I just don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t want to lose Joe any more than you do, Ben. I\u2019ve grown very fond of him. I know nothing will ever bring Daniel back\u2014but I refuse to believe we will lose Joseph too!\u201d Harold fought back his own tears. The two men sat by the bed and waited for some sign that Joe would somehow survive his injury.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Two days had gone by since Joe had his surgery.<\/strong> There had been no outward sign that he was going to recover, nor was there any further sound other than his faint heartbeat. Ben had only left his son\u2019s side long enough to change clothes and wash his hands and face. He didn\u2019t bother to shave and carried a full three days growth of beard. Ben showed the telltale signs of deep exhaustion and he had argued with Harold when the man begged him to sleep.<\/p>\n Ben had finally dozed off for a couple of hours when Harold returned to check on Joe\u2019s condition. Nothing had changed. The doctor sighed and walked out of the room he needed some more coffee to try to fight off his own exhaustion. Joe rolled his head slowly back and forth on the pillow and struggled to open his eyes. He could feel the weight of the covers against the deep incision. Then Joe\u2019s vision cleared and he caught the sight of Ben slumbering in the chair by his bed. He never had seen his father look that old! As Joe tried to turn slightly an involuntary groan escaped his lips. This woke Ben instantly and he reached over to his son.<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph! Can you see me?\u201d He asked grasping his son\u2019s hand. Joe nodded his head and spoke in a hoarse voice.<\/p>\n \u201cPa\u2014I\u2019ve got to tell you something.\u201d Ben reached for the water pitcher and poured a glass and held it up to Joe\u2019s parched lips. Joe drank as much as he could, straining at the effort it took. \u201cPa\u2014I have to tell you!\u201d Joe was insistent.<\/p>\n Ben pushed the hair off Joe\u2019s forehead. \u201cDon\u2019t talk, Son. You have to save your strength. You are very weak right now.\u201d Ben spoke calmly to try to ease Joe into settling back.<\/p>\n \u201cNo\u2014I have to tell you\u2014just in case\u2014\u201d Joe repeated himself. Ben knew what Joe meant. Joe wasn\u2019t quite sure if he would survive his injury.<\/p>\n \u201cNo talk like that\u2014I won\u2019t hear it! You are going to be fine, Joseph!\u201d Ben tried to make the statement sound factual.<\/p>\n Joe squeezed his father\u2019s hand as pain shot through his body with a sudden fierceness. \u201cPa\u2014let me talk.\u201d He pleaded and Ben finally gave in and nodded for Joe to continue.<\/p>\n \u201cI need to tell you that I was coming back to you, Pa. I was going to tell the Doc the night all this happened\u2014I wanted to be with you, Pa.\u201d As Joe spoke tears started to fall from his eyes.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI had to find out some things\u2014that\u2019s why I stayed so long\u2014it wasn\u2019t because I didn\u2019t want to be with you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI understand, Joe. I never doubted you. I just missed you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa\u2014if anything happens\u2014I mean If I don\u2019t make it\u2014\u201d Joe trailed off again and closed his eyes fighting back the pain and heartache he was feeling.<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph\u2014-don\u2019t talk like that\u2014please!\u201d Ben felt tears drift from his own eyes. The last thing in the world he needed right now was some kind of death-bed confession! He needed to believe that Joe would survive. Furthermore, he needed Joe to believe he was going to survive!<\/p>\n \u201cJust in case\u2014-tell Adam and Hoss I\u2019m sorry\u2014I haven\u2019t always acted like I should have\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou can tell them that yourself, Young Man! When you get home!\u201d Ben insisted.<\/p>\n \u201cPa\u2014-I know why everything happened now\u2014I know why I had to go through all the suffering I did\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhy, Son?\u201d Ben whispered and brushed his hand across Joe\u2019s forehead again.<\/p>\n \u201cI was needed to save Mattie\u2014I was needed to save Nurse Hastings. I was needed to help Frank fight back from his own addiction. I was also needed to help Doctor Peele. It wasn\u2019t a waste. Pa! It all meant something!\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes glowed with a sudden awareness as he spoke. \u201cI also learned that no matter how much YOU forgave Me\u2014it wasn\u2019t enough\u2014I had to forgive MYSELF! I learned that from helping Frank.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded again that he understood all that Joe had said.<\/p>\n \u201cYou have learned a whole lot, Son.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut most of all, Pa\u2014\u201d Joe paused and fought to get the words out, he was feeling very weak and knew he would be fading fast. \u201cMost of all, I learned where I want to be \u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd where is that, Joseph?\u201d Ben asked hoping it was with him.<\/p>\n \u201cThat poem\u2014Pa\u2014do you remember that poem?\u201d Joe asked but he was starting to confuse what he wanted to say with what he actually was saying.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat poem\u2014what poem are you talking about?\u201d Ben asked confused. Joe closed his eyes for a minute and then fought the fatigue to get his meaning out. \u201cNo man is an island\u2014you know\u2014that poem. Do you know it?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben smiled at his son he knew the poem very well, and had even recited it to Joe as a small boy. The memory of that had obviously alluded Joe all these years. \u201cI know it very well\u2014what about it, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cEvery man is a piece of the continent\u2014a part of the main.\u201d Joe said barely audible.<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2014I know, Son. What are you trying to say?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou, Pa. You are the main\u2014-and I\u2019m a part of you. It\u2019s always gonna be that way. Don\u2019t think I\u2019d ever want to leave you\u2014\u2014I\u2019m sorry I made you mad with that letter\u2014I saw you got mad and crumpled it\u2014-\u201d Joe mumbled and fell back to sleep exhausted.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben sat in quiet consternation.<\/strong> Now how in the world could Joseph have known about him crumpling the letter he had received only a few days prior? He had not spoken of it and Joe had not spoken to Adam who was the only other person to have witnessed his own anger when he did it! He sat and took all that in, along with Joe\u2019s insistent confession. He wondered if Joseph had thought he was indeed dying? Ben prayed that wouldn\u2019t stop the boy from fighting back from his grave injury!<\/p>\n When Joe next started to come around, he could hear the quiet voices of both his father and Doctor Peele as they discussed his condition. Joe slowly opened his eyes and the doctor was the first to notice he was conscious. He walked around to the right side of the hospital bed, with Ben sitting at the left side in the chair. \u201cWelcome back.\u201d Harold smiled and put his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n \u201cHi, Doc.\u201d Joe said weakly but still managed a hint of a smile.<\/p>\n \u201cHow are you feeling? Are you in much pain?\u201d The doctor asked as he checked Joe\u2019s bandage again.<\/p>\n \u201cIt hurts\u2014\u201d Joe paused and then looked over at his father and continued. \u201cBut\u2014let\u2019s not get on the subject of pain medication, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Both men laughed at Joe\u2019s subtle joke. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to worry about that, Joseph!\u201d Harold grinned. \u201cIf you need anything, I guarantee you will given something that isn\u2019t addictive!\u201d He pulled up the covers and Joe winced at the weight of the blankets. \u201cI\u2019m so tired.\u201d Joe said fighting to keep his eyes open. Ben moved closer to his son and Joe reached out to him and touched his father\u2019s face with the palm of his hand. \u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Son?\u201d He whispered seeing that Joe was fading again.<\/p>\n \u201cYou need a shave.\u201d Joe said feeling his father\u2019s rough skin.<\/p>\n Ben looked over at Harold and shook his head amused. \u201cYes, I think you are right there, Joseph! I guess I look pretty rough right now.\u201d He replied. Joe turned his attention back to the doctor.<\/p>\n \u201cDoc, I have a message for you\u2014-I need to tell you before I fall back to sleep\u2014\u201d Joe sighed as he fought drowsiness. Harold sat down alongside Joe on the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s from Daniel\u2014\u201d Joe paused and looked as Harold and Ben exchanged bewildered expressions.<\/p>\n \u201cDaniel?\u201d Harold asked.<\/p>\n \u201cI saw him\u2014I talked to him\u2014\u201d Joe stopped again as he noticed disbelief in the two men\u2019s eyes. \u201cI\u2019m not crazy\u2014I know that\u2019s what you both are thinking\u2014just listen to me, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Harold nodded, \u201cGo on, Joe. We\u2019re listening.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe told me to tell you something. First he wanted you to know he loves you very much. He left you something\u2014he said it was in his Bible. He said he left you a letter\u2014but you never found it.\u201d<\/p>\n Harold looked amazed at what Joe had said and wondered if it could possibly be true.<\/p>\n \u201cHe also said something about a locket\u2014he said it was on his bureau\u2014he wants you to show it to Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA locket? You mean the one with his picture in it?\u201d Harold asked confused. He had already shown that to Ben months ago at the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n Joe shook his head. \u201cI only know he said it was on his bureau\u2014and you have to show it to Pa.\u201d Joe replied.<\/p>\n Ben had sat quietly during Joe\u2019s unusual requests. He was not doubting what Joe had said. After having experienced so many strange things recently, he was open to anything now.<\/p>\n \u201cPa?\u201d Joe turned his attention to his father.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Son?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGo with Doc\u2014-you both will see what Daniel said is true.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not leaving you.\u201d Ben stated firmly.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s okay, Pa\u2014-I promise you I\u2019m not going anywhere.\u201d Joe nodded to let him know that he was going to be all right and was no longer concerned about the possibility of not surviving his injury. Joe reached with his other hand to touch Harold\u2019s arm. \u201cDoc\u2014get him out of here will you? And find him a razor!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold laughed and nodded. \u201cOkay, Joe\u2014I already told your father that you get your stubborn streak from him! I\u2019ll get Nurse Hastings in here to keep an eye on you. She\u2019s been pestering me for days to come and sit with you!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold stood and walked around the bed over to Ben. \u201cDon\u2019t make me get the orderlies after you, Ben!\u201d He winked toward Joe who grinned at the thought. Ben finally stood and shook his head in defeat. \u201cWe won\u2019t be long\u2014\u201d Ben paused and bent down and kissed Joe\u2019s forehead.<\/p>\n \u201cTake your time, I need some sleep.\u201d Joe said and closed his eyes. He was soon sound asleep once more.<\/p>\n Harold looked down at Joe. \u201cHe\u2019s starting to get some color back in his cheeks\u2014that\u2019s a good sign! It\u2019s safe to leave him for a little while. Let me go and get the nurse then we will go home and try to figure out what Joseph was talking about.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded and watched as Joe slumbered on peacefully. He had a hunch that his son knew what he was talking about. He was not sure how it could be possible, but Ben\u2019s intuition told him that Joe had indeed been in contact with Daniel Peele!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n That evening Ben Cartwright stood in awe<\/strong> in front of the fireplace in the study at Doctor Peele\u2019s house and gazed up at the life-size portrait of Daniel Peele. He stared at the smile that was identical to that of his own son\u2019s smile. As he stood in wonderment, Harold searched the study for Daniel\u2019s Bible. He had checked the bookcase and could not find it. Finally, he remembered placing it in his desk. He found it in the bottom drawer and eagerly thumbed through it. There, just as Joseph had foretold, was a letter! Harold drew it out and walked over to the fireplace and sat down a bit shaken. Ben saw Harold with the letter in his hand and felt shivers down his own spine. Harold read it slowly.<\/p>\n Dear Father,<\/em><\/p>\n I can tell that my time here is quickly fading. I want to tell you not to mourn for me! You have given me more love in my twenty-four years than other sons have in a lifetime! I don\u2019t want you to think that you have failed me in some way. My body failed me\u2014you never did! I hate leaving you, but I promise you I will always be with you in spirit. Some day we will be together again, and until that time do what you do best! You have the gift of healing, do not waste that! Each time you are able to save someone you are in a way saving me. Never forget that! <\/em><\/p>\n I love you very much! Daniel<\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em>Harold wiped the tears from his eyes and Ben handed him some brandy. Harold accepted it, and handed Ben the letter to read. Harold looked up at the picture of Daniel and the smile never seemed as life-like as it did at that moment! Ben read the letter and reached over and put his hand on Harold\u2019s shoulder. \u201cHe loved you very much.\u201d Ben said softly and Harold nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cThat letter has been here all these years\u2014\u201d Harold paused and looked up at Ben. \u201cI might never have found it if it wasn\u2019t for Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cEach time you are able to save someone you are in a way saving me\u2014\u201d Ben read from the letter.<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph.\u201d Harold nodded. \u201cHe is referring to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben smiled and knew that everything that had happened had been part of some plan. A plan, which had eluded all of them, but now started to make some sense. Harold stood and his face took on a curious look to it. \u201cLet me go to Daniel\u2019s room\u2014-I need to find that locket!\u201d He said enthusiastically.<\/p>\n It wasn\u2019t more than fifteen minutes later when Harold met Ben again in the study. He held in his hand a locket. \u201cI had almost forgotten about this!\u201d He said and walked over to sit down next to Ben. \u201cIt was Daniel\u2019s mother\u2019s locket\u2014she had it ever since she was a young girl.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben reached to look at it. He opened it and stared at the two pictures it held inside. Ben\u2019s face went white! He looked dumbstruck at the pictures of the two young women. Finally he turned to Harold and said, \u201cWho is this?\u201d and he pointed to the picture on the left side of the locket.<\/p>\n \u201cThat is Daniel\u2019s mother Corrine.\u201d<\/p>\n A haunting stare reflected in Ben\u2019s eyes as he gazed at the other woman\u2019s picture. \u201cAnd who is this?\u201d Ben pointed at the other picture, even though he knew who the other woman was.<\/p>\n \u201cThat was Corrine\u2019s sister Marie.\u201d Harold said wondering why Ben wore the look he did.<\/p>\n \u201cMarie Del Vie?\u201d Ben asked quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cYes! How did you know?\u201d Harold was more than surprised now.<\/p>\n \u201cMarie Del Vie was my wife\u2014and Joseph\u2019s mother!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold sat there speechless. Both men hastily poured themselves some brandy and tried to let this revelation sink in before speaking again.<\/p>\n Finally Harold broke in. \u201cCorrine was born in New Orleans\u2014she left when she was eighteen \u2014that picture was made of them right before she left. By the time I married her she had lost all contact with Marie.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2014Marie told me the very same thing! Her sister had moved away. She tried to find her but never was able to.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI met her in Boston when I was in medical school there. We married and I came out west.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd both of them had a son\u2014\u2014\u201d Ben grinned now at the similarity and how it all made sense. \u201cJoseph and Daniel\u2014they were cousins!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold laughed as the realization struck home. \u201cCan you believe this!\u201d?<\/p>\n He exclaimed. Ben also laughed and replied, \u201cHarold\u2014after all that has gone on lately I can believe ANYTHING!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWait till we tell Joseph!\u201d Harold smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m surprised Daniel didn\u2019t tell him himself! He told him everything else!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy nephew!\u201d Harold nodded at the thought of it.<\/p>\n Ben drank of his brandy and replied, \u201cYes\u2014and my brother-in-law!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe have to give Joseph the news. But, first\u2014I believe his request was for you to get some rest\u2014and oh\u2014yes\u2014don\u2019t forget the shave too!\u201d Harold stood and led his newfound family member to the guest room.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The next morning both Ben and Harold<\/strong> made their way back to the hospital. It had been the first full night\u2019s sleep that they had since Joe\u2019s injury. They entered Joe\u2019s room and Nurse Hastings stood and approached the two men. \u201cHe\u2019s slept most of the night. He only woke one time and we gave him something for pain and he went back out. His spirits are good and we just changed his bandages.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you for taking care of him so well.\u201d Ben smiled gratefully and the nurse looked up at him.<\/p>\n \u201cNo thanks needed! Your son saved my life! He\u2019s a very fine young man.\u201d She replied and left the room.<\/p>\n Ben walked over to where Joe lay sleeping and felt his forehead. \u201cNo fever.\u201d He commented just as Joe opened his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cHey, Pa\u2014Doc how did it go? Did you find the letter?\u201d<\/p>\n Harold approached the bed. \u201cYes, Joseph\u2014just as you said. I think Daniel has been trying to tell me about it for a long time\u2014but I might never have found it if it wasn\u2019t for you!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe looked at his father and grinned. \u201cAnd the locket? Did you find that too?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben and Harold exchanged looks and Ben said, \u201cYes\u2014and you are going to be very surprised!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold handed Joe the locket, but before he opened it he looked at both men and said, \u201cI already know\u2014guess I\u2019ll have to call you Uncle instead of Doc now!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat! How did you know?\u201d Ben asked before Harold had the chance.<\/p>\n Joe opened the locket and replied. \u201cI had a dream last night. I saw it in a dream.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDaniel again?\u201d Harold asked and Joe shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cNo\u2014this time I saw my mother\u2014and another woman\u2014this woman.\u201d Joe pointed to the picture in the locket of Corrine. \u201cThey told me.\u201d Joe said this time more somberly.<\/p>\n Ben and Harold both sat down speechless. It was all beginning to be a little too much for them to comprehend. Joe finally broke the silence, which had fallen, over the room.<\/p>\n \u201cMaybe you both should lie down or something.\u201d He kidded trying to ease the tension.<\/p>\n Harold stood and said to Ben, \u201cI\u2019m going to get some coffee\u2014I\u2019ll bring you back some.\u201d He turned toward the door but paused before leaving and looked back at Joe. \u201cAnd as for you, Nephew\u2014-I\u2019m going to get you some breakfast! You have to get your strength back if you are going to make that trip back to the Ponderosa!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe looked at his father and then over to Harold. \u201cYou know? Pa told you?\u201d Joe asked worriedly, he hated to disappoint the man he had grown to care about so deeply.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s okay, Joe.\u201d Harold reassured. \u201cYour heart is on the Ponderosa not here. I still think you would have made an excellent doctor, though!\u201d He smiled warmly at Joe.<\/p>\n Joe returned the smile and said, \u201cI don\u2019t know\u2014-Uncle\u2014to tell you the truth I don\u2019t want to EVER see another scalpel again!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2014I can understand that. Besides\u2014it appears to me you are destined to spend most of your time as a patient not a doctor!\u201d Harold laughed and left in search of coffee.<\/p>\n Ben settled back into the chair next to his son\u2019s bed. \u201cWell, you have had some time here in San Francisco, Young Man! Didn\u2019t I tell you to be careful?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI guess trouble just has a way of finding me, Pa.\u201d Joe conceded and winced as he tried to pull himself up in the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cYou just lay still, Joseph! You have one heck of a cut there! You are not going to be sitting up for awhile.\u201d Ben said sternly forcing Joe back against the pillows.<\/p>\n Joe grabbed his father\u2019s wrist and replied pleadingly, \u201cI want to go home, Pa! I need to go home!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben sat next to Joe on the bed and tried to quiet him. \u201cYou will get home soon enough. But, we have just now got you conscious\u2014one step at a time, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe frowned. \u201cI hate being in bed. And I hate being in the hospital!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben laughed and pushed the hair off of Joe\u2019s forehead. \u201cWell, then I suggest you stop taking risks all the time! You sure have the unfortunate knack of always being in the wrong place at the wrong time!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe grinned at his father\u2019s playful chastisement, he knew how he really felt and how proud his father was of him. \u201cHey\u2014somebody\u2019s got to be the hero, you know?\u201d Joe responded.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, sometimes it is hard being the hero\u2019s father! You scared me half to death this time, Joseph!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014you and me both, Pa! But, remember I told you that everything happens for a reason.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2014and you have some of those reasons now, don\u2019t you?\u201d Ben asked softly.<\/p>\n Joe nodded. \u201cYeah, Pa. Now all I want is to go home.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAs soon as you can travel, Joseph. But, you are going to do everything we tell you to do until then, understand?\u201d Ben found it hard to sound stern now; he was still worried about his son\u2019s condition.<\/p>\n Joe settled back, he was too weak to argue and too happy to have his father there with him to disagree with what he had said. \u201cWhatever you say, Pa.\u201d Joe agreed. Ben\u2019s brow furrowed at Joe\u2019s response. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Pa? I said I\u2019d do what you wanted\u2014why do you look so worried?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBecause you have NEVER agreed with me so readily\u2014now I AM worried!\u201d Ben grinned and Joe shook his head amused.<\/p>\n \u201cJust because I said it\u2014doesn\u2019t mean I meant it!\u201d Joe teased.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s more like it\u2014I think you\u2019re starting to get better already.\u201d Ben laughed again just as Harold walked back in carrying two cups of coffee.<\/p>\n \u201cHow about taking Pa out for awhile? He\u2019s starting to bother me.\u201d Joe called over to the doctor.<\/p>\n Harold handed Ben his coffee and replied to Joe. \u201cOh no you don\u2019t! I\u2019m not siding with you this time, Joseph. Your father and I are going to make sure when you leave here that you won\u2019t be coming back. Well\u2014at least not as a patient!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe closed his eyes and Harold called back over to him again. \u201cAnd don\u2019t get too comfortable! The nurse is coming in here in a minute and bring you your breakfast.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe sighed he was too weak to take on both his father and his newfound uncle too. \u201cWhatever you say.\u201d Joe gave up and frowned in defeat.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe went through a slow recovery process the following week.<\/strong> His strength had not fully come back, but he was staying awake longer. That was not entirely a good thing, as it made it harder for him to have the patience to stay in bed. Finally the day came Joe had waited for. He was finally going to be allowed to get out of his hospital bed and venture into a chair. He was glad, as it was a sign that he was on his way into getting closer to what he wanted most of all, and that was to go home.<\/p>\n Ben helped Joe into his robe and Joe slowly turned in the bed and swung his legs over to the side. Joe held a protective hand over his incision and winced from the movement. Doctor Peele reached out his arm for Joe to take hold of it. \u201cNow slowly, Joseph, remember you have more than thirty stitches holding you together!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014and I\u2019m feeling each one of them right now!\u201d Joe replied biting his bottom lip. Harold pulled Joe into a standing position. Both Ben and Harold noticed how what little color Joe had on his face soon vanished and they hurriedly got him into a chair. Joe took a deep breath to stay the pain and let it out slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd WHO was it that kept pestering me to get out of bed?\u201d Ben asked sarcastically witnessing his son\u2019s apparent pain.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m okay\u2014\u201d Joe stopped and reached again to protect his stomach. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t hurt that much!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold laughed and shook his head at Joe\u2019s refusal to speak what he was really feeling.<\/p>\n \u201cNow you can see why it will be at least another week before we can even think about letting you out of here!\u201d Harold said and turned to leave. \u201cI\u2019ve got other ornery patients to check on now!\u201d He said and opened the door. He turned back toward Ben and instructed, \u201cNo more than a half of an hour in that chair\u2014then get him back into bed!\u201d Ben nodded and sat down next to Joe.<\/p>\n \u201cAnother week.\u201d Joe muttered irritated.<\/p>\n \u201cOh\u2014do you think you can sit in a stagecoach for three days now?\u201d Ben raised his eyebrows in gesture.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay\u2014you win, Pa! I just want to get home as soon as I can though.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAs if you haven\u2019t told me that a thousand times this past week!\u201d Ben replied.<\/p>\n Right before Ben was ready to get his son back into the hospital bed there came a knock on the door. Ben walked over and opened it and saw a man standing there. \u201cHi\u2014my name is Frank Myers\u2014I was wondering if Joe was up to having a visitor?\u201d Ben smiled warmly at the patient that he had heard Joe talk so much about. He led him into the room.<\/p>\n \u201cFrank!\u201d Joe\u2019s called out enthusiastically. \u201cCome on over here!\u201d<\/p>\n Frank walked over to his friend and looked at him fondly. He hadn\u2019t seen Joe since the day of his injury. \u201cI heard what happened, Joe! You okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe shook his head, \u201cSure\u2014I\u2019m fine!\u201d Joe said and looked at his father who rolled his eyes at the obvious lie he had said. His son was far from fine, but as was typical, Joe would be the last one to admit it.<\/p>\n \u201cFrank\u2014this is my father, Ben Cartwright.\u201d Joe made the introduction and Ben shook the man\u2019s hand. Frank stared up at Ben and then back at Joe and gave a wry smile. \u201cYou knocked HIM out?\u201d Frank asked kidding at the size of Ben compared to the size of his son.<\/p>\n Frank\u2019s question amused Joe, no longer haunted by his own past actions. He grinned up at his father and then over at Frank. \u201cYeah\u2014well\u2014it was a lucky punch, Frank!\u201d Joe laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m glad you and I never finished the round WE started!\u201d Frank replied in jest, remembering his first encounter with his now close friend.<\/p>\n \u201cMe too! I told you that you would probably be able to mop the floor with me, remember?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben watched as the two young men conversed and could see the great respect they had found for each other. \u201cRight now, Frank, I think that little four foot nurse down the hall could mop the floor with my son!\u201d Ben referred to Joe\u2019s weakened condition and Joe shot his father an amused look.<\/p>\n \u201cThey are letting me out of here today, Joe. I just wanted to thank you for all you did for me.\u201d Frank spoke earnestly and reached out to shake Joe\u2019s hand. Joe took it in his and replied, \u201cFrank, you helped me too! More than you will ever know. I gave you my address\u2014I wrote it in that book, remember? Write me and let me know how you are doing , okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Frank nodded. \u201cI will. When you getting out of here?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe frowned and looked up at his father. \u201cThey are keeping me prisoner for another week it looks like!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOr longer if you don\u2019t get your rest!\u201d Ben replied adamantly and Joe rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, my father will be here soon. Thanks again\u2014you take care of yourself!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou too, Frank!\u201d Joe smiled and watched as the man made his way out of the room.<\/p>\n Ben put his hand on his son\u2019s shoulder and spoke with pride in his voice. \u201cYou did a good job, Son. He looks like he will be all right now!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah\u2014I think so too!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNow\u2014as for you!\u201d Ben reached out his arm for Joe to take it to help stand up. \u201cIt\u2019s time to get you back into that bed!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe sighed deeply, he could tell that as usual, there was no room for an argument with his father.<\/p>\n He allowed Ben to pull him to a standing position and slowly made his way to the side of the bed. \u201cAnother week, Pa! I\u2019ll do whatever you say for one more week\u2014then I\u2019m outa here!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben pulled up the covers and patted Joe on the shoulder. \u201cIn your ENTIRE life you have NEVER done whatever I said for a whole week\u2014now this will be something to see!\u201d Ben laughed and sat back down in the chair.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A week later Joe sat in a wheelchair<\/strong> receiving last minute instructions from his uncle, Doctor Peele. Joe had been examined thoroughly by both Harold and the chief surgeon who had operated on him. \u201cNow, Joseph, I don\u2019t have to remind you that you are not totally mended do I?\u201d Harold asked staring into his nephew\u2019s bright green eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cI know \u2014I know! I\u2019ll take it easy!\u201d Joe said eager to get on his way.<\/p>\n Harold turned to Ben. \u201cYou have Doctor Martin check him when you get home. He will need a couple more weeks of bed rest. Just because the incision seems to be healing well on the outside doesn\u2019t mean that everything will hold up on the inside. Especially knowing how hard this young man is to control!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry, Harold.\u201d Ben smiled and looked directly at his youngest son. \u201cI won\u2019t take my eyes off of him!\u201d Joe noticed the inflection in his father\u2019s voice and knew he was serious.<\/p>\n \u201cNow that\u2019s going to be a long ride home. Have him sleep through as much of it as possible. Then right back into bed when he\u2019s back at the Ponderosa!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe frowned as the conversation seemed to be going on as if he was not there.<\/p>\n \u201cYou both worry too much!\u201d Joe complained and the two men in unison put their hands on their hips in a paternal stance. \u201cI wonder why!\u201d They both said and Joe blushed knowing how much they had all been through together in tending his many injuries.<\/p>\n \u201cCan we go?\u201d He protested.<\/p>\n Ben walked behind the wheelchair and could hear Joe mutter, \u201cI can walk you know!\u201d<\/p>\n Harold held up his hand to prevent the wheelchair from moving. \u201cOne last time\u2014no walking! Understand?\u201d He replied firmly and Joe nodded his understanding.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay then.\u201d Harold stepped back and they wheeled Joe out of the room. Nurse Hastings met them at the end of the corridor and gently gave Joe a hug. \u201cI\u2019m going to miss you, Joe! Thanks for saving me! Be sure to come back and see us!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI will\u2014but \u2014hey\u2014next time let\u2019s meet somewhere other than this place, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe grinned and the nurse laughed. \u201cYou have a deal.\u201d The nurse replied and Joe was then wheeled out of the hospital and out to the waiting carriage.<\/p>\n Robert drove Ben, Harold, and Joe to the stage depot. They carefully helped Joe out of the carriage and onto a bench. Robert brought all of the Cartwright\u2019s luggage and handed it up to the driver. Harold turned his attention to Ben. \u201cI was told today of the large donation you made to the hospital, Ben. \u201c He paused and Joe broke in.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s that about, Pa?\u201d Joe\u2019s curiosity got the better of him.<\/p>\n \u201cYour father had only one request of the administration when he made his donation. They are naming the new wing after Daniel.\u201d Harold spoke with pride and affection at the gift and also the honor that was paid his son.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Daniel Peele Rehabilitation Center.\u201d Ben announced and smiled broadly. He shook Harold\u2019s hand and reminded him, \u201cNow you remember you promised to be with your new family for Christmas!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI will. And I hope to see this young man back to his normal self by then!\u201d He replied.<\/p>\n \u201cBarring fires, scalpels,……\u201d Ben started and Joe objected loudly.<\/p>\n \u201cHey\u2014-at least you can\u2019t say life is boring when I\u2019m around!\u201d<\/p>\n Both Harold and Ben laughed at Joe\u2019s response. \u201cYou are so right, Son!\u201d Ben nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cAll aboard! Let\u2019s get going!\u201d The driver called down. Harold helped Joe stand upright and Joe was quick with his hug. \u201cI\u2019ll miss you, Uncle!\u201d Joe confessed and Harold smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cChristmas is only a month away\u2014-we\u2019ll see each other soon\u2014-Nephew!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben helped Joe up the step and into the stagecoach<\/strong> and they waved to Harold as the horses were sent forward. Harold stood there watching as they departed and the stagecoach disappeared into the distance. He didn\u2019t feel as lonely as he had in the past. Harold knew he would always have a special bond with Joe and also now with Ben. Then there was the letter! Harold reached into his vest pocket and drew it out. He had read it many times since the night he found it in his son\u2019s Bible. It brought him peace, just as Daniel had told Joe it would.<\/p>\n The three-day\u2019s journey to Virginia City seemed longer to both Cartwright\u2019s this time. Joe felt each rut, each bump that the stage encountered. He stretched out as much as he could in the cramped interior of the stagecoach. Ben had made arrangements in advance to have no other passengers this trip to allow his son more chance to rest. Ben could see the eagerness in his son\u2019s eyes and they came closer and closer to their destination. The times that Joe had slept his dreams were of his home and family. No longer haunted by old hurts or memories, he was slowly becoming the Joe Cartwright that everyone knew and loved.<\/p>\n By the time the stage pulled down the main street in Virginia City Ben could see how the trip had taken it\u2019s toll on his son. Joe looked more pale than when he had left San Francisco and he had been sleeping for hours with his head resting on his father\u2019s shoulder. As the stage came to an abrupt stop Ben could see his other two sons standing outside of the stage office waiting for them. \u201cJoseph\u2014\u201d Ben called trying to quietly rouse his son. \u201cJoseph\u2014-look where we are!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe lifted his head and peered out the window and saw the smiling face of his brothers.<\/p>\n \u201cYou all coming out or what?\u201d Adam said as he opened the stagecoach door.<\/p>\n Ben stepped down and briefly hugged his two oldest sons and then turned back to help Joe out.<\/p>\n \u201cI can do it\u2014-\u201d Joe protested and then almost lost his footing stepping down. Ben caught him by the arm. Joe tried to stand up as straight as he could, but he admitted to himself that he was hurting and held the site of his wound with his left arm.<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014if it isn\u2019t the Prodigal Son!\u201d Adam smiled and patted Joe on the shoulder.<\/p>\n \u201cNo Adam!\u201d Hoss interjected, \u201cDon\u2019t you remember? It\u2019s Doctor Cartwright now!\u201d Hoss teased and put his arm around his brother\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n \u201cVery funny\u2014very funny!\u201d Joe tried to appear unamused.<\/p>\n \u201cWe can finish this fond reunion when we get home\u2014let\u2019s get your brother to the wagon.\u201d Ben insisted and they slowly got Joe over to the buckboard. Joe was just about to step up into the seat of the wagon when Ben caught his arm. \u201cOh no you don\u2019t! I sent your brothers specific instructions!\u201d Ben pointed to the mattress, which was spread out in the back of the wagon.<\/p>\n \u201cBut, Pa\u2014\u201d Joe started and Ben gave him the \u201cdon\u2019t even think about it\u201d look. Joe frowned and his two brothers helped him into the back of the buckboard. Joe would never have admitted it but stretching out on the mattress did feel awfully good and before they had gotten half-way out of town he was sound asleep. Adam drove the wagon with Ben up front next to him and Hoss followed behind on his horse.<\/p>\n \u201cIs the kid okay?\u201d Adam asked taking a quick glimpse at his slumbering brother.<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s so much I have to tell you and Hoss. This has been the most unbelievable couple of weeks!\u201d Ben said cryptically and Adam was anxious to get home and hear all about it. He had only been told bits and pieces of information from his fathers several telegraphs. Whatever the details, Adam was glad that the family was once again intact.<\/p>\n A little past six o\u2019clock that evening the buckboard pulled up in front of the ranch house. Hop Sing had heard the sound of the team of horses and hurried out toward his family. He went right over to Joe and climbed up into the wagon with him. \u201cYou wake up now, Little Joe! Hop Sing so happy to see you!\u201d He gleamed and Joe opened his eyes to the man\u2019s smiling face.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m happy to see you too!\u201d Joe smiled and Hop Sing helped him into a sitting position.<\/p>\n \u201cYou not take care of yourself again! You always hurt! You no leave the ranch no more!\u201d Hop Sing chastised him letting out all of the worry he felt for the young man he loved so dearly.<\/p>\n Joe put his arm around Hop Sing\u2019s shoulder and said, \u201cI ain\u2019t planning on leaving again\u2014no time soon that is!\u201d Joe replied.<\/p>\n The three Cartwrights, assisted by Hop Sing, helped Joe into the house. Joe stopped in his tracks and turned as if to move toward the couch. \u201cAbsolutely not!\u201d Ben\u2019s voice boomed coming from behind his youngest. \u201cUp to your room, Young Man! You know the rules!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJust for a few minutes?\u201d Joe pleaded.<\/p>\n Ben just stared again at his son and Joe frowned and gave up. Hoss and Adam led him to the staircase. \u201cCarry him up, Hoss!\u201d Ben called and Joe turned his head around.<\/p>\n \u201cI can make it myself!\u201d Joe insisted. \u201cI\u2019ll just take it real slow.\u201d Joe took the first step and held tightly onto the banister. Then he took another step and rested a minute. Hoss turned back around to look at this father and Ben gave him a signal to end Joe\u2019s useless self-imposed suffering.<\/p>\n \u201cAt this rate you won\u2019t be up these stairs until Christmas, Little Brother!\u201d Hoss announced and before Joe could turn to reply he had Joe in his strong arms and started to carry him up the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cPut me down, Hoss!\u201d Joe protested and Hoss stopped and playfully lifted him over the rail as if to drop him right down into the living room.<\/p>\n \u201cYou sure you want me to put you down, Little Brother?\u201d Hoss laughed. Joe looked down at the hard floor and said, \u201cOkay\u2014-I changed my mind!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI thought you\u2019d see it my way!\u201d Hoss replied and Ben and Adam laughed from downstairs at the typical horseplay coming from the two brothers.<\/p>\n After Joe was all settled in his room and Hop Sing had brought him up his supper and fussed over him thoroughly, Joe was soon asleep again exhausted by the long trip. Ben sat over dinner and discussed all that had transpired with his two oldest sons.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s some spooky stuff!\u201d Hoss commented after his father had finished his story.<\/p>\n \u201cHow do you think Joe knew all of that, Pa? I mean you crumpling his letter\u2014the letter from Daniel and all about the locket?\u201d Adam asked pensively.<\/p>\n Ben sighed and shrugged his shoulders. \u201cI don\u2019t have an explanation\u2014at least not one that would sound rational!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou don\u2019t reckon that Joe actually saw Daniel, do you, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked still in awe of all he had heard.<\/p>\n Ben raised his eyebrows and responded, \u201cDo YOU have a better explanation?\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss and Adam looked at each other and shook their heads uncertain whether to believe it all as fact or some strange coincidence.<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019s the kid anyway?\u201d Adam decided to change the topic.<\/p>\n \u201cReal good\u2014aside from another life-threatening injury!\u201d Ben sounded pleased with Joe\u2019s new found peace. \u201cHe has come to cope with all that happened to him. He\u2019s found the answers he has been looking for so long! It\u2019s like having the \u201cold\u201d Joe back!\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss grinned and responded to the good news. \u201cIt\u2019s about time! He\u2019s been gone a long time! He sure is an irritating cuss\u2014but we\u2019ve all missed having him around!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben chuckled at Hoss\u2019 appropriate description of his brother.<\/p>\n Later that same evening Ben, Hoss, and Adam walked into Joe\u2019s bedroom and found him to be just waking up. \u201cHave a good nap?\u201d Ben asked approaching the bed.<\/p>\n Joe yawned, \u201cYeah, Pa. Sure is good to be back in my own bed!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s good, Son\u2014cause that\u2019s where you are going to be for awhile! Doc Martin will be out to check on you in the morning. Joe frowned at the news of another doctor visit.<\/p>\n Adam and Hoss came closer to the bed and Joe looked over at them.<\/p>\n \u201cI believe you had something to say to your two brothers, didn\u2019t you, Joseph?\u201d Ben asked and Joe knew he was referring to Joe\u2019s premature death-bed confession in the hospital. Joe had mentioned he wanted to apologize to his brothers for not always being well behaved around them.<\/p>\n Joe\u2019s eyes went back and forth between Adam and Hoss and then Joe finally replied, \u201cYeah\u2014I just wanted to tell you that\u2014\u201d Joe stopped and reconsidered the statement he had made to his father at the hospital. \u201cI just wanted to tell you to be sure and get all my chores done while I\u2019m laid up in here!\u201d Joe laughed and the two brothers shook their heads. Unbeknownst to Joe, Ben had already informed his other two sons exactly what Joe had said in the hospital.<\/p>\n \u201cGee\u2014and I thought he was gonna tell us how much he missed us!\u201d Hoss protested and winked at Adam to continue. \u201cYeah\u2014or tell us that he was sorry he had acted so badly in the past!\u201d Adam stated and Joe looked over at his father embarrassed at what he had told them.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can\u2019t listen to anything someone says when they are out of their head anyway!\u201d Joe complained. Finally Joe sighed and admitted to the truth, he spoke in earnest, \u201cNo\u2014I said it and I meant it. I am sorry for all I\u2019ve put all of you through in the past. I know I have not been the easiest person to get along with.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJoe\u2014I hate to tell you\u2014but you have been like that your WHOLE life\u2014it\u2019s nothing new to the two of us!\u201d Adam grinned at his little brother and Joe returned the smile knowing that Adam was forgiving him in his own way.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re just glad to have you back!\u201d Hoss reached over and patted his brother\u2019s arm. Ben stood from the chair and motioned for his oldest sons to leave. \u201cYour brother needs to get some rest. We\u2019d better leave him alone for awhile.\u201d Ben followed Adam and Hoss to the door and Joe called over to him. \u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes?\u201d Ben turned around.<\/p>\n \u201cCould you stay a little while?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure.\u201d Ben said and turned back into the room as Hoss and Adam left. He walked back to the chair by the bed and once more sat down. Joe acted like he wanted to say something but looked as though he was having a hard time with it.<\/p>\n \u201cSomething you want to talk about?\u201d Ben asked quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cNo\u2014not really\u2014I guess I just wanted to tell you thanks.\u201d Joe responded.<\/p>\n \u201cFor what, Joe?\u201d Ben didn\u2019t understand the need for thanks.<\/p>\n \u201cFor letting me go off and find out what I needed to know. For putting up with me no matter what I\u2019ve done in the past. \u201c Joe stopped suddenly. His thoughts were not coming out the way he wanted them to. He wanted to tell his father how much he loved him but it was hard to come out with the words.<\/p>\n Ben knew what Joe was trying to tell him and was deeply touched watching his son struggle to say it in the right way. He had an idea that might say it for Joe. Ben reached over to the night stand and retrieved the book of poems that had been placed there earlier.<\/p>\n \u201cLet me see\u2014\u201d Ben paused thumbing through the book until he found what he was looking for. \u201cThere was a poem I used to read to you when you were little\u2014let\u2019s see how did it go?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe looked up at his father confused by his rapid change of subject.<\/p>\n \u201cOH\u2014yes\u2014here it is<\/p>\n \u201cNo man is an island, entire of itself\u2014every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Ben stopped and gazed into his son\u2019s eyes . \u201cI remember, Joseph.\u201d He admitted to knowing exactly what Joe had meant when he had mentioned the poem in the hospital.<\/p>\n \u201cA part of the main.\u201d Joe smiled and nodded. \u201cAlways, Pa.\u201d Joe whispered.<\/p>\n Ben nodded back at his son. \u201cAlways, Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n The End<\/p>\n Written by Wrangler<\/p>\n 2001<\/p>\n Next in the Whatever It Takes Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n Mustard Seed<\/a> Disclaimer:\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Tags:<\/strong>\u00a0 addiction, Family, Joe \/ Little Joe Cartwright, Recovery<\/p>\n
\n Absolute Faith
\n<\/a>A Part of the Main<\/a>
\nMustard Seed<\/a>
\nTo Help a Stranger (by Deb)<\/a>
\nOf One Breath<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n
\nTo Help a Stranger<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n