Chapter One<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Pulling his black hat down low over his sun-burned face so that only his lips were visible, the boy encouraged his horse to move on through the waist-deep snow. \u201cCome on, Cochise\u2026you\u2019ll be bedded down in your warm stall before long\u2026keep on movin\u2019 boy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Ears turning back in response to the boy\u2019s voice and answering with a soft nicker, the horse picked up its pace as it led the way over the steep, tree-bare ridge.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam, if that don\u2019t beat all\u2026\u201d Hoss chuckled as he watched Cochise respond to his owner\u2019s request. Following closely behind Joe, Hoss directed his horse in Cochise\u2019s tracks. \u201cThat horse is about half human.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd that boy is about half horse\u2026\u201d Adam mused as he cast a vigilant eye on the slope below them. It wasn\u2019t the first time and it wouldn\u2019t be the last that Adam Cartwright regretted letting Joe talk him into taking the shortcut home across the East Ridge. The conditions on the mountainside were less than favorable and the snowpack was shifting continually with the hot afternoon sun. \u201cJoe, why don\u2019t you let me take the lead for a while?\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNow way, big brother\u2026\u201d Joe interrupted as he looped his horse\u2019s reins around his saddle horn and began unbuttoning his shirt. \u201cIf you was to lead, we\u2019d spend two weeks up here instead of two hours. I wanna get home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s right, Adam. Joe knows this trail like the back of his hand and from the looks of things, Cochise is awful familiar with it as well.\u201d Hoss watched as Cochise independently plodded along the trail while Joe removed his shirt, rolling up the sleeves of his long johns. \u201cYou know, Adam\u2026I think this is the way the boy gets to town and back so quick-like when he\u2019s sneakin\u2019 out of the house at night.\u201d Hoss guffawed loudly as his little brother jerked his head around and made a face at him.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat may very well be, Hoss, but I suspect his serendipitous jaunts into town are after the snowmelt and not at this time of year.\u201d Adam considered following Joe\u2019s lead and removing his own heavy black work shirt. The sun was unforgiving at this altitude and although the temperature was well below freezing, the combination of the sun beating down on their heads and the reflection from the snow made it feel more like mid-July.<\/p>\n
More than halfway across the ridge, Joe reached forward and rubbed his horse\u2019s ears. Cochise pushed his head back against the boy\u2019s fingers welcoming the physical contact. Adam and Hoss could hear Joe whispering to the horse as he seemed to respond in kind to every word. A moment later, legs wrapped over the pommel of his saddle, Joe leaned back until his head came to rest on Cochise\u2019s rump. Cochise continued along, carefully picking his way across the ridge\u2026non-plussed by the all too familiar behavior of his boy on his back.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, sit up properly and tend to your horse!\u201d Adam spoke sharply enough for his youngest brother to hastily obey.<\/p>\n
\u201cI was just gonna get me a short nap\u2026Cooch knows the way anyways\u2026\u201d Joe answered back but not before sitting up and beginning to unwrap his reins from the saddle horn. \u201cI\u2019m hot and bored\u2026\u201d the boy complained as he concentrated solely on untangling the long reins.<\/p>\n
Joe\u2019s hands were helplessly entangled in the knotted reins when the bull elk made its sudden appearance on the trail ahead of them. Cochise immediately danced backwards into Chubb, whose age and experience and alert rider enabled him to stand his ground. As the frightened elk leapt away, Cochise jerked away from Chubb and began backing up towards the edge of the precipice.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhoa there boy, pull him around. Pull his head around! Now, Joseph\u2026\u201d Hoss recognized the imminent danger and tried to quickly quiet his little brother and the horse.<\/p>\n
Joe\u2019s eyes widened as he felt his horse quivering beneath him. His heart beat a rapid cadence in his chest as his horse sidestepped in terror towards the steep slope. Finally freeing his hand from the knotted reins, Cochise jerked his head to the side and he lost his grip, watching helplessly as the long strips of leather fell to the ground.<\/p>\n
\u201cGrab the headstall, Hoss!\u201d Adam yelled as he dismounted and tried in vain to run through the snow. Joe\u2019s horse was perilously close to the edge of the ridge now and his terror increased with each passing second.<\/p>\n
\u201cGet off now, Joe\u2026jump off boy!\u201d Hoss yelled as he read Cochise\u2019s eyes all too well. Hoss strained forward, attempting to grab hold of anything on the panicked horse.<\/p>\n
Joe nodded quickly at Hoss and just as he dropped his stirrups and prepared to jump off, the sudden appearance of a second elk leaping onto the ridge in front of them pushed Cochise over the edge. All at once horse and rider disappeared, sliding backwards down the mountainside.<\/p>\n
Chapter Two<\/strong><\/p>\nHoss was off his horse in a moment and the two brothers scrambled to the edge of the ridge, looking over in horror at the scene below. \u00a0Cochise was still sliding backwards, but was sinking into the snow so quickly that he had almost come to a stop. \u00a0Joe had leaned forward wrapping his arms around the horse\u2019s neck for stability.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, get the reins, turn his head to the side\u2026Traverse the slope!\u201d \u00a0Adam cried out, helplessly watching from above. \u00a0Hoss tore himself away from the edge and approached Chubb, pulling the rope from his saddle. \u00a0Hurrying back, he began to uncoil it and form a lasso.<\/p>\n
Joe struggled to lean forward and retrieve the reins so that he could regain some measure of control. \u00a0As Cochise slid down a few more yards, a startled herd of elk thundered past them from below. \u00a0Up to his withers in snow and fighting furiously against his innate desire to flee, Cochise again tried to gain purchase on the crumbling slope. \u00a0All at once Joe reached the reins and he pulled up smartly, fighting valiantly to turn the horse\u2019s head.<\/p>\n
From above, a rope suddenly flopped across the saddle in front of Joe. \u00a0\u201dGrab the rope, Little Joe\u2026I\u2019ll pull you up.\u201d \u00a0Hoss called down to his brother as Adam braced himself behind Hoss to help pull Joe up the slope.<\/p>\n
Ignoring the rope, Joe slowly pulled Cochise\u2019s head around so that it became horizontal to the trail above. \u00a0\u201dI ain\u2019t leaving Cochise\u2026\u201d \u00a0were Joe\u2019s only words as he pushed the rope off the saddle and began to encourage his horse to move forward across the incline.<\/p>\n
\u201cDon\u2019t be a fool, boy. \u00a0He can\u2019t move in that snow. \u00a0You take hold of the rope this time, you hear?\u201d \u00a0Hoss coiled the rope and began to take aim.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can\u2019t leave him\u2026\u201d \u00a0Joe\u2019s voice cracked as he yelled out to his brothers above. \u00a0As Cochise tried to take a step forward he immediately sank into the snowpack so that Joe\u2019s boots were beneath the surface.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss, put a rope around him. \u00a0We\u2019ll just have to pull him off.\u201d \u00a0Hoss hesitated for just a moment while he considered the implications. \u00a0Carefully, keeping a steady eye on his young brother, he threw the rope over the slope. \u00a0Cursing silently when the rope fell short of its mark, Hoss recoiled it quickly and prepared to throw it again.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, we\u2019ll figure out something to get Cochise out, but first you need to get up here where it\u2019s safe, boy\u2026\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s words echoed in the valley below as his young brother wiped at his eyes and again tried to urge his horse forward.<\/p>\n
\u201cCome on, Coochie\u2026try to move. \u00a0You can do it, boy\u2026\u201d \u00a0The terrified horse quivered beneath him as he tried desperately to rear up to free its front legs. \u00a0As Joe leaned back in the saddle to allow him to pull up, his hooves cleared the snowpack for a second before he dropped back into the snow with a muffled thud.<\/p>\n
Adam watched in horror as the fissure in the snow appeared suddenly and before he could shout a warning to his brother, the crack had spread over the entire face of the mountainside.<\/p>\n
\u201cAVALANCHE!\u201d Adam screamed just as Hoss\u2019 rope fell over the boy\u2019s shoulders and horse and rider disappeared into the sea of snow. \u00a0Instinctively grabbing hold of Sport and Chubb\u2019s reins, Adam watched helplessly as the mountain slid and the air filled with a snow cloud dissipating high above their heads in the bright sunlight. \u00a0As the air began to clear, Adam reached out to his brother.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss, my God.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss turned toward his oldest brother and it was then that Adam saw that Hoss\u2019 hands were raw and bleeding from the rope burn.<\/p>\n
\u201cI tried to hold onto the rope, Adam. \u00a0I couldn\u2019t pull him out. \u00a0I tried to.\u201d \u00a0Hoss drew in a raw and choked breath. \u00a0His voice was filled with despair. \u00a0\u201dI lost him. \u00a0I lost Little Joe\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss began to sob softly as Adam grabbed his younger brother\u2019s shoulders and shook him smartly.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss\u2026Hoss. \u00a0Get a stick. \u00a0See down below\u2026Get a stick \u2013 we have to find Joe! \u00a0We don\u2019t have much time!\u201d \u00a0Adam began to slide down the now bare slope towards the treeline below.<\/p>\n
Hoss followed closely behind and within a moment they each had broken long branches from the felled trees and were hurrying towards the slide debris below them.<\/p>\n
A moment later, climbing atop the settled snow, Adam directed the search. \u00a0Pointing to several trees and a large boulder marking the edge of the avalanche area, Adam plotted the perimeter of the search. \u00a0Working quickly, the brothers moved methodically towards the center, probing below the snowpack \u2013 praying to hit something solid as they pushed down. \u00a0After several attempts, Hoss\u2019 boot dislodged a chunk of ice and he saw the end of the rope.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam! Over here!\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam ran to Hoss\u2019 side and in a frenzy of activity, the two men began dislodging the rope until it was vertical from a point of resistance beneath the snow. \u00a0Digging furiously with the stick and with their hands, the men worked with a combined formidable strength, until all at once, they saw a boot just below the surface. \u00a0Working with renewed vigor they dug even faster until they were able to grab hold of their little brother\u2019s hips and together they pulled him out of the snow.<\/p>\n
Chapter Three<\/strong><\/p>\nHoss grabbed his brother and pulled him upright, vigorously rubbing his shoulders and back. \u00a0 Forcing himself to ignore the arm that hung limply at Joe\u2019s side and the boot that was grotesquely turned to the side, Hoss worked to revive the lifeless boy. \u00a0Without a word, Adam unsheathed his knife and opened the boy\u2019s mouth, cutting at the ice ball lodged behind his teeth. \u00a0When his mouth was cleared and his airway was open, Adam joined Hoss in massaging the boy\u2019s extremities and torso.<\/p>\n
Having spent the better part of their lives in the Sierras and having experienced a great many search and rescue situations at the winter mining camps, the older Cartwright brothers knew well enough not to trust the appearance of death after a snow or ice related accident.<\/p>\n
\u201cCome on, buddy\u2026wake up\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss slapped his brother smartly across the face as Adam pushed simultaneously on his chest. \u00a0Jarring him again as Adam shook his shoulders roughly, a small gasp rewarded their efforts as they now continued with renewed diligence. \u00a0After another moment, the boy moaned softly and began to cough, weakly at first and then with desperation.<\/p>\n
\u201cSit him up, Hoss\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss pulled his brother up and began to clap his hands on the boy\u2019s back.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have to get him warm, Hoss.\u201d \u00a0Adam removed his heavy winter coat and wrapped it around his brother\u2019s shoulders. \u00a0\u201dI\u2019ll get a fire going, Hoss\u2026keep him breathing\u2026we have to get those clothes off of him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Hoss nodded grimly as he kept rubbing his brother\u2019s back.<\/p>\n
By nightfall, a blazing fire lit the side of the East Ridge as Joe slept safely in his older brother\u2019s arms. \u00a0Shivering intermittently and still barely conscious, the youngest Cartwright was breathing on his own and color was slowly creeping back into the boy\u2019s face. \u00a0Naked under the coats and blankets enveloping him, his body temperature was nearly back to normal. \u00a0His clothes and boot had been frozen to his body when Adam and Hoss had worked to remove them. \u00a0The missing boot would be salvaged in the Spring after the snow began to melt when they would return to the mountainside to retrieve Joe\u2019s saddle and bury his beloved Cochise.<\/p>\n
Adam had wrapped and tied an old shirt around Joe\u2019s chest, holding his left arm immobilized against his side. \u00a0His shoulder has been seriously dislocated and Adam had worked to set it back in place while the boy was unconscious. \u00a0Joe\u2019s leg was badly broken and displaced and setting the bone had taken all the strength the two men could combine. \u00a0His leg was now strapped to two branches and tied with part of the rope that had been his salvation. \u00a0Adam and Hoss had both been thankful their little brother was not fully conscious during the moments they tended to his injuries.<\/p>\n
~~~<\/p>\n
Desperately trying to swim up through the maddening waves, but unable to find the surface, unable to get his bearings, he felt the world becoming dark around him. \u00a0Grasping, but not feeling, he clawed out at the void surrounding him. \u00a0Movement being his only defense, he pushed out at the rapidly confining surroundings that were making it nearly impossible for him to draw a breath. \u00a0Spiraling swiftly towards unconsciousness his legs and arms and chest bound so that movement was impossible\u2026trying once more to break free\u2026he opened his mouth and \u00a0a scream escaped his lips.<\/em><\/p>\n~~~<\/em><\/p>\n\u201cJoseph, wake up boy\u2026wake up, it\u2019s okay\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss sat the boy up so that he could take a deep breath and as he gasped in the cold air, his right hand grasped Hoss\u2019 shirt in a tight fist.<\/p>\n
Awakened by the nightmare, Adam added more logs to the fire before joining Hoss in comforting their tortured brother.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, you are safe now\u2026you are safe, buddy.\u201d \u00a0Adam whispered quietly as he rubbed his shivering brother\u2019s back.<\/p>\n
Joe\u2019s eyes fluttered open for the first time since the accident and he looked desperately at Hoss. \u00a0Clutching Hoss\u2019 shirt tighter and unable to speak the horror of his memory, Hoss drew him in and closed his massive arms around him. \u00a0Coughing intermittently as the tears cascaded down his face and dampened his brother\u2019s shirt, Joe pressed his head into Hoss\u2019 chest until utterly exhausted, he collapsed and tumbled into slumber.<\/p>\n
Chapter Four<\/strong><\/p>\nThe morning sun was bright as Adam prepared the horses. \u00a0After saddling the two horses and securing their gear, he took the rope and looped one end around Sport\u2019s saddle horn and tossed the other end down the mountainside towards his brothers.<\/p>\n
Hoss had managed to get a good bit of water into his little brother when he had awakened briefly at dawn. \u00a0After checking to be sure the splints were secure, Hoss had set about dressing Joe as best he could and rewrapping him in the dry blankets and coats. \u00a0When Hoss was sure the boy was warm, he took the end of the rope and tied it around Joe\u2019s waist. \u00a0Signaling to Adam above him, he waited for tension to be applied to the rope.<\/p>\n
Adam backed Sport across the ridge as Hoss supported Joe and the boy was pulled up the side of the steep mountain. \u00a0Crying out several times as his leg was jostled against the rough mountainside, Joe became more alert as the minutes crept by. \u00a0Finally Adam leaned over and lifted the boy under his arms as Hoss grabbed his legs and he was moved to the safety of the ridge.<\/p>\n
Hoss collapsed on the ground as Joe turned his head to the side and began to cough weakly. \u00a0Lifting his head for just a moment, he collapsed back into the snow and sighed deeply.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam\u2026\u201d \u00a0His voice was little more than a whisper.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m right here, buddy.\u201d \u00a0Adam finished securing the rope to his horse and came to kneel beside Joe.<\/p>\n
\u201cCo\u2026Cochise\u2026\u201d Joe managed to get the word out before he was overtaken by an uncontrollable fit of coughing. \u00a0Unwilling and unable to talk to Joe about his horse, Adam turned back to the preparations at hand.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss, we need to get him home. \u00a0Let\u2019s put him on Sport, I will ride behind.\u201d \u00a0Adam stood to his feet grasping Joe under the arms as Hoss gently lifted his legs. \u00a0\u201dThis ride is going to be so painful\u2026that leg of his\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThere ain\u2019t nothing else we can do, Adam\u2026we have to get him home and warm\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
With great difficulty, the two brothers lifted Joe up and onto the saddle and as his leg dropped over and hung down, he cried out in earnest.<\/p>\n
Adam quickly climbed up behind him and wrapping one arm tightly around him, he used the other hand to hold the reins out in front of them. \u00a0Sport stepped carefully over the deep snow that covered the ridge, but despite the slow and careful speed, Adam could feel the tension in his little brother\u2019s body as the pain cut him like a knife. \u00a0Joe pushed his head back into Adam\u2019s chest and tried to suck in breath after breath. \u00a0Mercifully, after several minutes, he passed out and slumped against his brother.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s out, Hoss. \u00a0I\u2019m going to pick up the pace now.\u201d \u00a0Adam moved Sport a bit faster as they made it across the steep ridge and headed down into the valley. \u00a0Joe came to a few more times, but only briefly. \u00a0They stopped just long enough to force much needed water into the boy\u2019s mouth, and then the brothers pushed on towards home.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Chapter Five<\/strong><\/p>\nStrapping on his gunbelt and grabbing his hat, Ben Cartwright opened the door to the ranch house. \u00a0Stepping out onto the wide porch and pausing to stretch, he gazed up at the bright blue expanse of sky.<\/p>\n
\u201cBeautiful day, ain\u2019t it Mr. Cartwright?\u201d Charlie Mason stepped from the side of the house holding an ax and wiping across his brow with his neckerchief. \u00a0\u201dSeems like the sun\u2019s been mighty generous to us this winter\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben smiled at the older man and nodded his head. \u00a0\u201dCouldn\u2019t agree more, Charlie, couldn\u2019t agree more\u2026\u201d \u00a0Ben\u2019s eyes wandered off to stare at the road behind the barn.<\/p>\n
\u201cAh, don\u2019t you go worryin\u2019 yourself about them boys of yours. \u00a0They\u2019ll be back afore long.\u201d \u00a0Charlie chuckled as he replaced his kerchief around his neck. \u00a0\u201dIf\u2019n it were just Little Joe or even Little Joe and Hoss\u2026that was late comin\u2019 home from Virginy City\u2026I might join you in contemplatin\u2019 the situation\u2026but, with Adam alongside that youngster of yours \u2013 those boys won\u2019t get in any trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben pulled his gaze away from the empty road and forced himself to smile again at his old ranch hand. \u00a0\u201dRight\u2026of course. \u00a0You are right. \u00a0Still. \u00a0I might just ride out and meet them on the trail. \u00a0I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou ride on out, Mr. Cartwright\u2026I already have Buck saddled and waitin\u2019 on you to do that very thing.\u201d \u00a0Charlie winked at his boss and then turned back towards the woodpile, laughing loudly.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou old coot\u2026\u201d \u00a0Ben joined in the laughter. \u00a0\u201dYou think you know me so well\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, that\u2019s because I do\u2026\u201d \u00a0Charlie chuckled again. \u00a0\u201dOh, Boss\u2026I\u2019ll be leavin\u2019 to go to my sister\u2019s today. \u00a0I left young Prescott here\u2026the new boy. \u00a0He\u2019s gonna take over the barn chores while I\u2019m gone. \u00a0He\u2019s a good boy. \u00a0A little green, but willin\u2019 to learn.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThanks, Charlie\u2026now you have fun in Carson City. \u00a0Let that sister of yours put some meat on your old bones!\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben headed for the barn as he waved goodbye to his oldest hand. \u00a0He would just ride down the road a bit. \u00a0It wouldn\u2019t hurt to get away from the books and get a breath of fresh air\u2026<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Chapter Six<\/strong><\/p>\n\u201cHoss, wait up!\u201d \u00a0Adam called to his brother who was leading the way across the snow covered meadow that would lead them to the road just beyond the ranch house. \u00a0Because they were so close to home, Adam had tried desperately to continue on without complaint or rest. \u00a0 Just then, Joe had flopped over his arm and Adam lacked the strength necessary to sit him up again.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat is it, Adam?\u201d \u00a0Hoss asked glancing behind him. \u00a0As he took in the sight behind him, he quickly pulled Chubb to a halt and jumped off, plodding through the snow to his oldest brother\u2019s horse.<\/p>\n
\u201cHere, I got him now\u2026easy\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss took hold of his youngest brother\u2019s shoulders just before Adam lost his grip on the boy\u2019s chest. \u00a0Turning him quickly, Hoss scooped him up and held him against his chest. \u00a0\u201dCan you get me a blanket, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam felt as if his arms belonged to someone else. \u00a0Tingling from lack of circulation, he tried to flex his hands. \u00a0\u201dSure, Hoss. \u00a0Give me just a minute\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Climbing down from his horse with some difficulty, Adam shook his arms again before he reached behind his saddle and untied a dry blanket. \u00a0After spreading the blanket out on the snow, Hoss gently lowered his brother to the soft berth.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet\u2019s try to get some water into him, Hoss,\u201d Adam leaned over to check the splints binding his brother\u2019s leg and arm. \u00a0Satisfied, he eased himself down on the blanket beside the boy and drew a ragged breath. \u00a0He sorely wished for a warm house, a bed, the doctor, his\u2026<\/p>\n
\u201cPA!\u201d \u00a0Hoss shouted all at once. \u00a0\u201dPA! Over here!\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam jumped to his feet as Hoss waved his arms over his head at the figure riding up the road towards them.<\/p>\n
\u201cPA!\u201d \u00a0Adam joined Hoss and they both gave a shout when their father motioned back.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa?\u201d \u00a0Joe whispered in a desperately raspy voice. \u00a0A single tear dripped down his cheek as he waited for the familiar voice and touch.<\/p>\n
Buck was cantering across the snowy meadow now. \u00a0Unwilling to push him too fast because of the icy conditions, but understanding the seriousness of the situation more and more\u2026the closer he got to his boys\u2026two horses\u2026where was Cochise? \u00a0Why was Joseph laying down? \u00a0He pushed on as fast as he was able.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss\u2026Adam! \u00a0What\u2026what happened?\u201d \u00a0Ben was off his horse in an instant, hurrying to his youngest son\u2019s side. \u00a0\u201dJoseph?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cPa?\u201d \u00a0Joe turned his head slightly to the side so that he could see his father.<\/p>\n
Kneeling in the snow, Ben cupped his hand over Joe\u2019s forehead and stroked the hair. \u00a0\u201dI\u2019m right here, boy\u2026right here. \u00a0Don\u2019t you worry\u2026We\u2019re gonna get you home and warm.\u201d \u00a0Ben looked his son over quickly and turned to his oldest.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat happened?\u201d \u00a0he hissed.<\/p>\n
\u201cAvalanche, Pa. \u00a0Joe was caught up in it.\u201d \u00a0Adam found it hard to put the sentences together. \u00a0\u201dWe pulled him out, Pa\u2026he was hurt awfully bad.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHow?\u201d Ben began but stopped himself when he felt Joe\u2019s hand brush his cheek. \u00a0Grabbing the hand and squeezing it gently, Ben turned his attentions back to the boy. \u00a0\u201dJoseph, I\u2019m going to put you up on my horse and ride behind you, son..you will be home in half an hour\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Joe nodded almost imperceptibly as his body began to shiver uncontrollably.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe just can\u2019t leave him out in the snow while I go to get a buckboard..his body is like ice.\u201d \u00a0Ben spoke to noone in particular as he checked his son over quickly. \u00a0\u201dHoss, give me a hand, son\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben stood up and lifted his son from behind his head and Hoss gently lifted his legs. \u00a0Adam supported the boy\u2019s back as they hurried to Ben\u2019s horse. \u00a0With some difficulty, Joe was finally sitting in the saddle with his father right behind him.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoseph, lean back on me, son\u2026\u201d \u00a0Ben reached around and gently pulled his son into his chest. \u00a0Hoss and Adam mounted up quickly as they all set off across the meadow. \u00a0Before they had even made it to the road, Joe\u2019s head had fallen back onto Ben\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n
When they reached the road, Hoss took off at a gallop in the direction of Virginia City. \u00a0Ben and Adam turned their horses towards home. \u00a0As Ben and Adam worried over Joe, Joe\u2019s thoughts went to Cochise.<\/p>\n
Chapter Seven<\/strong><\/p>\n\u201cMr. Cartwright\u2026Mr. Cartwright!\u201d \u00a0Prescott ran out of the barn at the sound of the horses coming into the yard. \u00a0\u201dMr. Cartwright\u2026I\u2026\u201d \u00a0Stopping in mid-sentence, he saw his new boss holding a young man slumped over the saddle in front of him. \u00a0Prescott hurried across the yard to stand beside Adam.<\/p>\n
\u201cGimme a hand, boy\u2026\u201d \u00a0Adam commanded as he reached up and his father handed over his little brother into his waiting arms. \u00a0Prescott quickly moved to brace Adam\u2019s arms and between them they hurried into the house and up the stairs to Joe\u2019s room.<\/p>\n
Carefully placing Joe on the bed, Prescott unconsciously stepped back and gasped. \u00a0Joe\u2019s face was almost colorless\u2026his veins showing through beneath the translucent skin. \u00a0His whole body convulsed in a cascade of never ending tremors, the result of a combination of low body temperature and pain. \u00a0Strapped between two sturdy pine branches, the boy\u2019s lower leg was swollen and discolored. \u00a0His left arm was wrapped tightly to his chest.<\/p>\n
\u201cPrescott, go boil some water, son. \u00a0Grab some blankets from the hall wardrobe and warm them in the oven.\u201d \u00a0Ben Cartwright demanded as he hurried into the room. \u00a0Placing a hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder and squeezing, he directed him to the bedside. \u00a0Prescott ran out into the hallway as the two men attended to Joe.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet\u2019s get his clothes off, Adam.\u201d \u00a0Ben reached for the buttons of his shirt as Adam retrieved his knife and cut away what was left of his pants.<\/p>\n
An hour later, buried under a sea of warm blankets and surrounded by hot water bottles, Joe opened his mouth to sip the brandy his father offered. \u00a0Coughing weakly, he pushed the glass away after only taking one small sip.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa\u2026\u201d His voice was nearly inaudible. \u00a0\u201dCochise\u2026\u201d \u00a0Joe\u2019s hand reached out for his father\u2019s hand and it quickly found its mark. \u00a0As Ben squeezed the boy\u2019s hand, he whispered his reply.<\/p>\n
\u201cShhh\u2026not a word, son. \u00a0Not now.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam rubbed a hand across his face as he looked out the window towards the barn. \u00a0Willing the doctor to appear, but knowing it was much too soon, he tried to force the images of the day before from his mind.<\/p>\n
\u201cMr. Cartwright, I made some broth, Sir.\u201d \u00a0Prescott timidly walked into the room carrying a tray burdened with three steaming bowls of meat broth.<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you, son.\u201d \u00a0Ben Cartwright looked the youngster over again. \u00a0Charlie had been right about this new hand. \u00a0He was a good boy.<\/p>\n
Placing the tray on Joe\u2019s bedside table, the young man handed a bowl and spoon to Ben and then offered another to Adam.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, no thank you.\u201d \u00a0Adam turned back to the window when a hand came to rest again upon his shoulder. \u00a0Turning his head, he met the young man\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou must, Sir. \u00a0For your brother. \u00a0You don\u2019t want to get sick.\u201d \u00a0Prescott offered the bowl again and this time Adam took it gratefully.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor my brother. \u00a0Thank you.\u201d \u00a0Adam watched as his father lifted Joe\u2019s head and placed a spoonful of the hot broth in his mouth. \u00a0\u201dThank you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Chapter Eight<\/strong><\/p>\nSeveral hours later, Adam and Ben jumped to their feet at the sound of the wagon rolling past the barn. \u00a0Looking out the window, Adam announced, \u201cDr. Martin\u2026Thank God.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ben joined his son at the window and watched Paul Martin and Hoss hurry towards the house.<\/p>\n
A moment later the door burst open and Hoss ushered the doctor into the room.<\/p>\n
\u201cBen, Adam.\u201d \u00a0Doc Martin placed his medical bag on the bedside table and brought a hand down on his young patient\u2019s forehead. \u00a0\u201dHoss filled me in. \u00a0How\u2019s he been?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe warmed him up and fed him some hot broth and brandy. \u00a0We\u2019ve been forcing water into him. \u00a0The shivering has stopped. \u00a0Some color is returning to his face.\u201d \u00a0Ben answered as Joe\u2019s eyes began to flutter open. \u00a0\u201dHis leg is very swollen and his arm\u2026I don\u2019t know\u2026we kept the sling in place.\u201d \u00a0Ben stroked his son\u2019s cheek as the boy\u2019s eyes found his fathers.<\/p>\n
\u201cHello Little Joe.\u201d \u00a0Dr. Martin spoke as he sat on the edge of the boy\u2019s bed. \u00a0\u201dYou have had quite an experience, son.\u201d<\/p>\n
Not willing to take his eyes off his father\u2019s, Joe simply nodded his head.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa\u2026where\u2026Adam?\u201d \u00a0Joe choked the words out before being claimed by a fit of coughing.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, I\u2019m right here, buddy.\u201d \u00a0Adam came to stand behind his father so that Joe could see him clearly.<\/p>\n
\u201cCochise\u2026Adam\u2026is he\u2026is he d\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Overcome again with a painful episode of coughing, Joe struggled to take a breath.<\/p>\n
\u201cSit him up, Ben.\u201d \u00a0Doc Martin commanded as the two men supported the boy upright on the bed until he could draw a breath.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s enough talking, son. \u00a0I want to take a look at you now.\u201d \u00a0Laying him back down, Dr. \u00a0Martin pulled back the covers.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo!\u201d \u00a0Joe grabbed his hand and pushed it to the side. \u00a0\u201dTell me! \u00a0You have to\u2026you have to tell me. \u00a0Tell me!\u201d \u00a0His voice though quiet was unrelenting in nature. \u00a0\u201dYou have to\u2026tell me\u2026was he\u2026was he\u2026buried?\u201d \u00a0Joe pushed himself up with his right arm until he could look his brother Hoss in the eyes. \u00a0\u201dHoss, tell me. \u00a0Please.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, you tried, little brother. \u00a0You tried to save him.\u201d \u00a0Hoss knelt beside the bed and placed a hand on his brother\u2019s damp curls. \u00a0\u201dYou did everything you could, buddy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss!\u201d \u00a0Ben began but then stopped himself as he watched Joe lean back into his pillows. \u00a0Tears dropped from the corners of his eyes as he worked to get his breath under control.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss is right, Little Joe. \u00a0You were so brave, you did your best for him\u2026\u201d \u00a0Adam placed his hand on his brother\u2019s shoulder and squeezed lightly. \u00a0\u201dJoe, he knew you tried.\u201d<\/p>\n
Closing his eyes and turning his head away from his brothers, Joe wept silently as the doctor ordered everyone out of the room.<\/p>\n
\u201cYoung man, I could use your help.\u201d \u00a0Doc Martin spoke to Prescott who had appeared in the doorway with more hot water.<\/p>\n
\u201cBen\u2026boys\u2026 \u00a0When I\u2019m done in here, I\u2019ll talk to you downstairs. \u00a0Preferably over coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n
Whispering a silent prayer for his youngest son, Ben reluctantly closed the door behind him.<\/p>\n
Chapter Nine<\/strong><\/p>\nAs the three men waited patiently for the doctor to finish sipping his coffee, Prescott hurried in through the front door with a load of fresh firewood. \u00a0Placing the logs gingerly on the fire, he turned to address Ben.<\/p>\n
\u201cSir, I have something to finish up in the barn. \u00a0If you don\u2019t mind\u2026\u201d \u00a0Prescott began.<\/p>\n
\u201cSon, you\u2019ve put in more than a full day of work. \u00a0You go on and get some shut eye now.\u201d \u00a0Ben smiled at the young man.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis can\u2019t wait, Mr. Cartwright. \u00a0I\u2019ll turn in before long, Sir.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you say so. \u00a0Won\u2019t you have a cup of coffee first?\u201d \u00a0Ben asked, leaning forward to pour.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, thank you. \u00a0I best be getting back to the barn.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cGoodnight, Prescott.\u201d \u00a0Ben stood and shook the young man\u2019s hand. \u00a0\u201dThank you, son.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cGoodnight, Sir.\u201d \u00a0Prescott backed away and then hurried out the door.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou have quite a hand there, Ben.\u201d \u00a0Dr. Martin commented as he replaced his coffee cup on the saucer.<\/p>\n
\u201cBen\u2026boys\u2026\u201d \u00a0he began. \u00a0\u201dJoseph has a badly broken leg. \u00a0It will heal, but it will require complete rest for at least six weeks. \u00a0His arm is less complicated. \u00a0Adam did a good job of putting the shoulder back in place out on the trail. \u00a0After a few weeks, he can start to use it again.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dr. Martin leaned forward. \u00a0\u201dWhat worries me most are his lungs. \u00a0He was buried in that cold snow. \u00a0He already sounds a bit raspy. \u00a0We have to keep him healthy so that those bones will heal properly. \u00a0Plenty of rest. \u00a0Deep breathing, coughing, lots of water and good food. \u00a0Keep him warm and maintain a good watch on his arm and leg.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will keep him in bed, Paul and we will see to it that he follows your instructions.\u201d \u00a0Ben answered.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s been through quite an ordeal, Ben. \u00a0That coupled with the loss of that animal\u2026his recovery will not be without conflict.\u201d \u00a0Paul Martin stood and walked over to stand beside the fire, rubbing his hands together in front of the flames. \u00a0\u201dWhen you left the room, he didn\u2019t move again. \u00a0Just lay there staring out the window. \u00a0Not a sound. \u00a0Not a word.\u201d<\/p>\n
Silence hung in the room as Paul turned and placed a hand on his old friend\u2019s shoulder. \u00a0\u201dKeep a close watch on that boy, Ben\u2026\u201d \u00a0Squeezing Ben\u2019s shoulder one more time, Dr. Martin walked across the room to the door.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll see myself out. \u00a0I have to stop at the Jenkins on the way back. \u00a0Another baby coming\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you, Paul. \u00a0Thank you.\u201d \u00a0Ben followed him to the door and watched him leave. \u00a0Closing the door softly behind him, he walked to the stairs, followed by his older sons.<\/p>\n
Chapter Ten<\/strong><\/p>\n\u201cHere you go, fellow\u2026\u201d \u00a0Prescott scooped the hot mash of oats and oil into the feed bin. \u00a0He had been around horses long enough to know what trauma could do to their digestive system. \u00a0Better safe than sorry, he thought. \u00a0As the horse began to eat contentedly, Prescott ran his hands down his left front leg again, carefully probing the swollen joint.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou been through some kind of ordeal, boy\u2026but you\u2019re gonna be okay.\u201d \u00a0Prescott wrapped the hot towels soaking in the bucket at his feet around the animal\u2019s leg and tied it in place securely. \u00a0He stood again and ran his hands down the horse\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou sure are a beaut.\u201d \u00a0Prescott marveled at the healthy coat and firmly honed muscles. \u00a0\u201dSomebody sure does love you. \u00a0I\u2019ll ask Mr. Cartwright about you in the morning. \u00a0Maybe he or one of his sons will recognize you. \u00a0Don\u2019t you worry none\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Giving the horse one last pat on the neck, Prescott blew out the lamp and returned to the bunk house.<\/p>\n
Cochise swallowed the last of the hot mash and taking his weight off the injured leg, he closed his eyes slowly ad slept.<\/p>\n
Chapter Eleven<\/strong><\/p>\nJerking upright in the bed, Joe awakened suddenly to a feeling of suffocation. \u00a0Gasping for air, he felt and heard his father\u2019s presence beside him immediately.<\/p>\n
\u201cShhh\u2026son, it\u2019s okay\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cPa\u2026can\u2019t\u2026can\u2019t\u2026breathe.\u201d \u00a0Joe leaned his head into his father\u2019s chest and tried to concentrate on his breathing.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s okay, son. \u00a0Take your time. \u00a0Relax.\u201d \u00a0Ben stroked the boy\u2019s curls as he felt the tension slowly leave the boy\u2019s body.<\/p>\n
\u201cHere, son.\u201d \u00a0Ben held the cup of brandy to his son\u2019s lips. \u00a0\u201dJust a small sip.\u201d<\/p>\n
Obediently swallowing and enjoying the warmth the liquid generated in his throat and stomach, Joe allowed himself to be returned to his pillows.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa, I can\u2019t believe he\u2019s gone.\u201d \u00a0Joe mused as he looked again towards the window. \u00a0\u201dI still feel like he\u2019s right out there\u2026under my window\u2026safe in his stall.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI know, son. You\u2019re bound to feel that way for a long time.\u201d \u00a0Ben sat quietly beside his youngest until the boy\u2019s eyes drifted shut again.<\/p>\n
Chapter Twelve<\/strong><\/p>\n\u201cLookie what ole Hoss made for you, little brother.\u201d \u00a0Hoss beamed as he tromped into the room carrying a tray laden with food. \u00a0\u201dFlapjacks!\u201d<\/p>\n
Joe rolled his eyes as his older brother placed the tray on Joe\u2019s nightstand and quickly tucked a checkered napkin under Joe\u2019s chin.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss, I\u2019m not hungry\u2026\u201d Joe protested as he tried to push his brother\u2019s hand away.<\/p>\n
\u201cDoc Martin said you needed to eat\u2026and I am to see you do jest that!\u201d \u00a0Hoss plunked the fork down into a mountainous stack of hotcakes and came up with more than a mouthful dripping with butter and syrup.<\/p>\n
\u201cNow are you gonna open your mouth or am I gonna have to get Adam to open it for you?\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam immediately moved to the other side of Joe\u2019s bed and playfully reached for his head.<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay, okay!\u201d \u00a0Joe said as he opened his mouth and allowed himself to be fed. \u00a0Hoss was ready with another bite as soon as Joe had swallowed and try as he might, he wasn\u2019t allowed to refuse. \u00a0Finally, after a fourth mouthful, Joe turned his head to the side and clamped his mouth shut.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe boy\u2019s had his fill, Hoss\u2026\u201d \u00a0Adam said, winking at Joe.<\/p>\n
\u201cWell, Hoss\u2026what are you doing? \u00a0Feeding an army?\u201d \u00a0Ben bellowed as he walked into the room and gazed down at the plate. \u00a0A huge stack of uneaten flapjacks remained on the platter.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou better put that food to good use, son\u2026\u201d \u00a0Ben laughed as he addressed Hoss and then looked at his youngest.<\/p>\n
\u201cI just might do that!\u201d \u00a0Hoss laughed as he moved to Joe\u2019s window and sat down, taking a generous bit of the flapjacks. \u00a0\u201dMmmm\u2026.mmmmm.\u201d<\/p>\n
Joe smiled weakly as he watched Hoss and then turned to look at his father. \u00a0\u201dHi, Pa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cGood morning, son.\u201d \u00a0Ben answered, running his thumb across the boy\u2019s forehead. \u00a0\u201dHow are you feeling?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m okay, Pa\u2026I just\u2026\u201d \u00a0Joe swallowed the lump rapidly building in his throat. \u00a0\u201dI just keep thinking\u2026thinking of\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cCochise\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss whispered as he dropped the plate and its contents on the floor.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss, be careful!\u201d \u00a0Ben scolded s he forced his attention back to Joe.<\/p>\n
Suppressing a giggle, Joe focused his attention on his father. \u00a0\u201dIts just that he was so special, Pa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI know son, I know\u2026\u201d \u00a0Ben answered quietly.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdam\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss looked at his oldest brother who was staring open-mouthed out in to the yard.<\/p>\n
Down below, Prescott was leading Cochise around in the bright, morning sunlight. \u00a0Favoring his left front foot, he was led in a large circle to the right.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa, if I close my eyes, I can still see him\u2026\u201d \u00a0Joe began weakly.<\/p>\n
\u201cThen close your eyes, boy!!\u201d \u00a0Hoss quickly approached the bed and tossed the covers back.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss! \u00a0What are you doing?\u201d \u00a0Ben grabbed his son by the shoulder and tried to turn him around.<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t mean no disrespect, Pa\u2026but there\u2019s somethin\u2019 I just gotta do.\u201d<\/p>\n
With one quick swoop, Hoss leaned down and lifted his brother into his arms.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss!\u201d \u00a0Ben yelled.<\/p>\n
\u201cPut me down, Hoss\u2026\u201d Joe pushed against his brother\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n
\u201cPa, its okay\u2026really\u2026its okay.\u201d \u00a0Adam motioned to his father to join him at the window. \u00a0Ben Cartwright laughed out loud at the scene below.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoss, put me down! \u00a0Pa! \u00a0Help me\u2026Make Hoss..\u201d \u00a0Joe ineffectively pulled at one of Hoss\u2019 hands.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoseph, do what your brother told you. \u00a0Close your eyes.\u201d \u00a0Ben waved his finger at his son.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNOW!\u201d<\/p>\n
Joe snapped his eyes shut as Hoss moved to the window. \u00a0Throwing open the sash, Hoss leaned out into the cold air with his little brother held firmly against his chest.<\/p>\n
\u201cBe careful, Hoss!\u201d \u00a0Ben couldn\u2019t help but put a hand on Joe\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe, tell us again\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss said excitedly. \u00a0\u201dIf\u2019n you close your eyes\u2026what do you see?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAwww\u2026come on, Hoss.\u201d \u00a0Joe answered. \u00a0\u201dPut me down.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cJoseph, tell us just one more time\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss insisted as Joe considered his family\u2019s sudden plunge into insanity.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can see Cochise!\u201d \u00a0Joe yelled impatiently.<\/p>\n
As the boy\u2019s words and scent drifted out into the yard below the open window, Cochise jerked his head up and pawed playfully at the ground. \u00a0The low nicker became a loud whinny and as Joe\u2019s eyes popped open he drank in the sight below him.<\/p>\n
\u201cCochise!\u201d \u00a0he yelled. \u00a0\u201dCooch!\u201d<\/p>\n
Prescott smiled up at his boss and his boss\u2019 sons leaning out of the window. \u00a0The horse danced at his feet. \u00a0\u201dThey seem to know you, fellow\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Joe submitted to being put back to bed only after Prescott was brought into the room and assured Joe that Cochise was safe and well. \u00a0Once in bed, Joe slept and his family rested.<\/p>\n
When Prescott returned to the barn to tend to the pinto, he found Cochise in Sport\u2019s stall\u2026eating his food. \u00a0Sport stood outside Chubb\u2019s stall and the two of them seemed to be discussing the errant horse.<\/p>\n
\u201cNawww\u2026.that\u2019s impossible\u2026\u201d \u00a0 Prescott thought.<\/p>\n
end.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Summary:\u00a0 The brothers are caught in an avalanche;\u00a0 this story is the aftermath.
\nRating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 (6,725 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12436,"featured_media":41001,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[2,1009,23,41],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-45693","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actionadventure","category-brothers","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","wpcat-2-id","wpcat-1009-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45693","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/12436"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=45693"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45693\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/41001"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=45693"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=45693"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=45693"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}