{"id":5033,"date":"2003-03-05T22:22:06","date_gmt":"2003-03-06T03:22:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5033"},"modified":"2025-09-09T14:22:53","modified_gmt":"2025-09-09T18:22:53","slug":"into-the-present","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5033","title":{"rendered":"Into the Present (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 <\/strong>A WHN for The Gift.\u00a0 Ever wondered what happened after Ben found Joe in the desert? Well, here’s my idea of what happened next.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0\u00a0 T \u00a0 \u00a0(7,920 words)<\/p>\n

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

Into the Present<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking up in surprise as a shadow fell on him, Sam Wolfe saw an older man, grim-faced, sweating and dirty. He hesitated momentarily before speaking. Might as well get his claim in first, he thought. He couldn\u2019t see how this stranger had anything to do with the young man he had just hunted down, but it never hurt to be careful. \u201cWell, howdy, friend. Just finished myself off a horse thief. Caught him stealin\u2019 my horses last night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a liar!\u201d the other man said, his voice low, but distinct.<\/p>\n

Wolfe\u2019s eyes hardened. It had been a long time since anyone had contradicted him. He rose from his crouching position by the stream. \u201cNow, lookee, friend\u2026\u201d he began. \u201cThat kinda talk can get you into a lot of trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s my son,\u201d Ben Cartwright grated.<\/p>\n

On the other side of Wolfe, Joe Cartwright lifted his head. He was tied up in a lariat, and suffering from dehydration and exposure. The short exchange between his father and Wolfe had mostly passed him by. But Ben\u2019s voice suddenly impinged on his consciousness. \u201cP-Pa?\u201d he gasped, wondering if he was hallucinating.<\/p>\n

For a second, Wolfe looked disconcerted. His pale blue eyes flickered back to the boy he had taken captive. Ben\u2019s eyes never left him. His hand hovered by his gun. Wolfe knew he had no choice but to kill both the boy and his father. He reached for his gun.<\/p>\n

The shot reverberated round the sand dunes. Sam Wolfe collapsed to the desert floor, dead. Wolfe\u2019s horse started and ran off a few paces. But the horse was too hot and tired to run off. In fact, Wolfe had all but ridden it into the ground, and it would be lucky if it survived much longer.<\/p>\n

For a second, Ben just stood there, then he jumped across the stream and hurried to Joe\u2019s side. After a single look at his youngest son, Ben hurried back to pick up Wolfe\u2019s discarded canteen. A moment later, he was kneeling by Joe, supporting the youth as he tilted the canteen to Joe\u2019s mouth.<\/p>\n

Eagerly, Joe began to gulp the tepid liquid. \u201cJoe, that\u2019s enough for now,\u201d Ben said, taking it back. He feared Joe would be sick if allowed to drink his fill all at once.<\/p>\n

Reluctantly, Joe relinquished the canteen. \u201cThanks, Pa,\u201d he gasped. He lay in his father\u2019s arms and gazed up at him. Joe had been convinced he would never see his family again. \u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShh, don\u2019t talk now, boy,\u201d Ben said, reaching to untie the ropes that still bound his son.<\/p>\n

\u201cI must talk,\u201d Joe protested. One hand went up to clutch at Ben\u2019s vest. \u201cThere was a vaquero with me, Emiliano.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI spoke with him,\u201d Ben evaded, avoiding Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen he\u2019s alive?\u201d Joe said, relief and joy in his voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Ben said, shortly.<\/p>\n

For a moment, Joe just looked at Ben, denial in his heart. Then it hit him, and tears filled his eyes. He turned his head into Ben\u2019s chest, seeking comfort from the only source he could remember. \u201cEmiliano,\u201d he croaked. Ben clutched him tighter, trying to ease his son\u2019s grief.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe wanted you to get through,\u201d Ben said. \u201cYou and the horse.\u201d He felt a pang of regret, for he had seen the dead horse, and it had indeed been magnificent \u2013 the physical symbol of the love his sons bore for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was a good friend, Pa. He really loved that horse. It was a great horse,\u201d Joe said, still teary. His hand still clutched at Ben\u2019s vest, and Ben\u2019s hand came up to hold Joe\u2019s. \u201cHe rode his heart out for me, Pa. I tried not to lose him. We wanted to give him to you as a gift.\u201d Joe\u2019s voice begged for forgiveness.<\/p>\n

Clutching his son tightly to his chest, Ben said, \u201cI have my gift, son.\u201d His voice shook. He had come so close to losing this son. He sniffed back the tears.<\/p>\n

There was the thunder of hooves from behind them. Ben helped Joe to sit up and began to unravel the ropes from around him. Joe reached for the canteen, his thirst over-powering, and took another deep draught.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Hoss and Adam hurried over to kneel by their brother, to touch him and see for themselves that he was still alive.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s all right, boys,\u201d Ben said. He felt a great sense of relief. Joe had somehow avoided the rampaging Apaches and survived the commancheros.\u00a0 He was dirty, exhausted and dehydrated \u2013 but he was alive! \u201cLet\u2019s get him home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Helping Joe to his feet, Adam looped his brother\u2019s right arm around his own shoulders and Hoss moved in to support Joe on the other side. Together, they walked their younger sibling to the horses. Ben went to the stream to refill the canteen. He knelt, then glanced skywards. \u201cThanks,\u201d he whispered; only the one word, but a wealth of feeling and meaning in it. He knew the Almighty would understand.<\/p>\n

It was clear that Joe couldn\u2019t mount without help, so Hoss practically lifted him onto Sport. \u201cI\u2019m right glad you ain\u2019t had your scalp lifted, Shortshanks,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

\u201cMe, too,\u201d Joe agreed, and pushed down the high crown of Hoss\u2019 ten-gallon hat.<\/p>\n

\u201cDadburnit, Little Joe!\u201d Hoss spluttered, snatching off the offending headgear and bashing it back into shape. \u201cYou\u2019ll be walkin\u2019 back if\u2019n you ain\u2019t careful!\u201d<\/p>\n

Laughing, Adam said, \u201cWell, your sense of humor hasn\u2019t improved while you\u2019ve been away.\u201d He patted Joe\u2019s leg. \u201cI\u2019m glad to see you, too, little buddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go, boys,\u201d Ben said, coming up beside them. \u201cWe don\u2019t want the Apaches finding us here!\u201d He glanced over at Wolfe\u2019s horse. The poor beast was down already. With a sigh, Ben went over and put it out of its misery.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ride Chubb, Pa,\u201d Hoss insisted, when he came back. \u201cMe an\u2019 Adam will walk.\u201d Seeing that Ben was about to protest, Hoss added, \u201cIt\u2019s your punishment for runnin\u2019 out on us back at that canyon!\u201d<\/p>\n

Both Adam and Hoss laughed at the expression on Ben\u2019s face. Joe looked quizzical, but the sun was beating down on his bare head again, and he was beginning to feel unwell. \u201cAll right,\u201d Ben agreed, for he had pushed himself earlier. He swung onto Chubb\u2019s broad back.<\/p>\n

\u201cReady?\u201d Adam asked, looking up at Joe. He saw at once that his brother didn\u2019t look too good, and guessed the reason. Taking his hat off, he plonked it down on Joe\u2019s head. \u201cYou leave that hat where it is,\u201d he threatened, \u201cand just sit. I\u2019ll take care of everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Joe agreed. He closed his eyes, but the movement of the horse threatened to send him to sleep, and Joe wasn\u2019t ready for that yet. He opened them again, and looked about.<\/p>\n

They were taking a different route than the one he had used, and it suddenly occurred to Joe to wonder why they had come looking for him, and how they had found him. Why was Ben on foot? Where was his horse? He thought about asking, but the effort required was just too much. Now that he wasn\u2019t alone any more, the adrenalin had drained from Joe\u2019s body, and he was finding it hard just to stay awake and upright.<\/p>\n

After a time, they came across Buck standing patiently in the desert. Nearby was the white horse. Ben helped Joe down from Sport while Adam and Hoss went over to look at the horse. This was the first time they had seen it. Joe felt a surge of guilt. He had had no choice but to ride the white horse to safety, and Wolfe\u2019s shot had done it severe injury. But still, there it lay \u2013 the ruination of a year\u2019s worth of planning. He lay back on the sand and closed his eyes.<\/p>\n

Around him, Joe could hear his family talking as they saddled Buck and made preparations to move on. The last thing he wanted to do was move on, but Joe was aware that with the Apaches on the warpath, they had stretched their luck as far as they were willing for the time being. Rolling onto his side, Joe propped himself on his elbow and reached for the canteen again. He drank deeply, until a warm hand caressed his head and gently took the canteen from him. \u201cTake it easy,\u201d Ben cautioned. \u201cYou don\u2019t want to overload your stomach.\u201d<\/p>\n

With Buck ready to go, Joe was again helped to his feet. His abused muscles trembled as he mounted Chubb, and he wanted nothing more than to lie down on that broad back and go to sleep. He still had Adam\u2019s hat on, and he saw with amusement that Adam was wearing Hoss\u2019 ten-gallon hat. The sight brought a few giggles to Joe\u2019s lips, and for a moment, seeing Adam\u2019s mock-indignant face, he felt much better.<\/p>\n

Before long, even the sight of Adam in Hoss\u2019 hat couldn\u2019t raise a smile on Joe\u2019s lips. His endurance trickled away along with the afternoon hours, and he knew it wouldn\u2019t be long before he could go no further. He hadn\u2019t realized the distance he had covered on the big white horse. There was no way they could get back to Tyson Wells that night. Or at least, not with one man always having to walk.<\/p>\n

A cold breeze drifted aimlessly across the desert as the sun began to drop. Ben looked around for a suitable place to camp. He thought it unlikely that the Apaches would come this deep into the desert, but one never knew. He didn\u2019t want them camping in the open. However, nothing suitable appeared, and so they rode on. Joe was done in, Ben knew, but he wanted somewhere defensible, if at all possible.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what about there?\u201d Adam said, pointing. Ben gazed that way, peering slightly in the uncertain light. When had it become so dark? He nodded. Adam\u2019s resting place looked as good as they could hope for, and they turned that way, unconsciously quickening their pace.<\/p>\n

Up close, the place was all they had hoped for. The walls curved round, making a secure place where no one could come at their backs. They were hidden from immediate view, and they were sheltered from the night wind, which might make their fire smoke.<\/p>\n

Leading the horses in, Ben slid from Buck\u2019s back to help Joe, but found his older sons there already. Joe could barely stand, and Ben hastily snatched his bedroll from the back of his saddle, and spread it out on the ground. Adam and Hoss eased Joe down onto it, and his distress was plain for all to see. His lips were cracked and sore; his skin was glimmering with sweat. Cramp spasmed through his muscles, causing him to groan with pain. He shivered occasionally.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou tend to Joe, Pa,\u201d Adam said, in a low voice. \u201cHoss and I will make camp.\u201d<\/p>\n

Kneeling by Joe, Ben gave him some more water. Their ration was dropping slowly but surely, and tomorrow, they would have to try and find some more somewhere. \u201cSupper will be ready soon,” Ben said, wrapping the bedroll round Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry,\u201d Joe whispered, his voice as cracked as his lips. His nose was sunburned and peeling. His eyes were red with fatigue. He shivered. \u201cI\u2019m just tired.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re tired because you haven\u2019t eaten,\u201d Ben scolded, gently. \u201cHow long is it since you ate?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDunno,\u201d Joe said, and sighed disconsolately. \u201cI just wanna sleep, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben sympathized. \u201cBut not yet, Joe. You must eat. Listen to me! You must eat!\u201d<\/p>\n

He kept talking to his son, keeping him awake while Adam and Hoss prepared supper with miraculous speed. The meal wasn\u2019t up to Hop Sing\u2019s standards, but it was pretty good. While Adam curried the tired horses, and fixed up the bedding, Hoss put some bacon into a pot, along with a little of the dried vegetables they carried, and made a sort of soup. It smelled good, and tasted better, and it was easy for Joe to eat. The saltiness of the bacon helped counteract the cramps he was suffering, and the fluid helped his dehydration. By the time he had eaten a few mouthfuls, Joe did indeed feel a little better, and settled straight to sleep after eating.<\/p>\n

The other three Cartwrights sat around their small fire after Joe had fallen asleep. \u201cHe\u2019s not going to be able to go on tomorrow, is he?\u201d Adam asked, and it didn\u2019t sound like a question.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it doesn\u2019t look like it,\u201d Ben answered, reluctantly. \u201cHe\u2019s used up all his energy, and with not having enough to drink, that\u2019s made everything worse. It doesn\u2019t help that we\u2019re one horse down. That\u2019s slowed us right down. I don\u2019t know if we could reach Tyson Wells tomorrow even if Joe is able to go on. We need more water and another horse.\u201d<\/p>\n

They were silent for a while, sipping the coffee Hoss had made. \u201cIn the morning, Hoss and I will go and look for water,\u201d Adam said. \u201cYou stay here with Joe. Perhaps he might know where the outlaw\u2019s camp is from here. After all, Cochise must be somewhere, and Joe didn\u2019t mention anything happening to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds like a good idea, Adam,\u201d Hoss said, before Ben could jump in and say anything. He knew what his father was thinking \u2013 they both did. Ben was worried about the Apaches, and didn\u2019t want his sons wandering around the desert without him. However, it was clear to them all that Joe wouldn\u2019t be up to any wondering around the next day, or maybe even the day after, if they didn\u2019t get enough water. They would be extremely lucky if Joe didn\u2019t succumb to heat stroke.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll stand first watch,\u201d Adam said, picking up his rifle.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen me,\u201d Hoss offered, knowing that Ben was tired out, emotionally as well as physically. \u201cThen I\u2019ll wake you, Pa,\u201d he promised.<\/p>\n

As Adam took up position, the other two rolled themselves in bedrolls. Ben glanced across at Joe once more before closing his eyes, but his youngest son still slept deeply. Once more, Ben sent up a prayer to the Almighty, thanking him for saving Joe\u2019s life, and asking that they might all manage to get to safety. Finally, Ben slept.<\/p>\n

****************<\/p>\n

Morning came with the promise of another blisteringly hot day. The secluded place where they had spent the night offered some respite from the sun, and Ben was glad. Joe was in no state to travel anywhere. He was feverish and exhausted. Ben had to rouse him to eat, and he wanted to go back to sleep almost immediately after.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you\u2019ve got to help us here,\u201d Adam said, allowing his brother to lean wearily against his shoulder. \u201cWhere is the outlaw\u2019s camp from here? Do you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

Frowning as he looked around, Joe finally pointed over to the west. \u201cThat way, I think. It was due west from the mesa where Emiliano and I fought Wolfe and the commancheros.\u201d He looked at Adam. \u201cAre we going there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot you, buddy,\u201d Adam said. \u201cHoss and I. We have to try and get some water. An extra horse would be nice, too, since I\u2019m getting pretty tired of walking all the time. So we thought we\u2019d see what was on offer at the camp.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if everyone is gone from there or not,\u201d Joe said, looking alarmed. \u201cThere could be others that stayed behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you worry none, Punkin,\u201d Hoss said, comfortingly. \u201cWe\u2019ll be right careful, I promise ya that.\u201d He grinned. \u201c\u2019Sides, ain\u2019t your pony likely to still be there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCochise,\u201d Joe said. \u201cYes, he must be. Why didn\u2019t I think of that for myself?\u201d He put his hand up to his aching head. \u201cOf course Cochise must be there, along with my saddle, gun and gear. It must all be there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that\u2019s a good reason to see if we can get there, isn\u2019t it?\u201d Adam said, calmly. He glanced at Ben, who hovered anxiously over his youngest son. \u201cYou stay here and keep Pa out of mischief, and we\u2019ll be back as soon as we can.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou be careful,\u201d Ben pleaded, as the boys mounted up. \u201cAnd hurry back.\u201d He stood and watched them for several minutes, before turning back to Joe. However, his youngest didn\u2019t need his company just at that moment. He had fallen asleep once more.<\/p>\n

****************<\/p>\n

It was a long day for Joe and Ben. The desert was absolutely still and silent, apart from a hot wind that blew their way every so often. Ben kept an anxious watch at the entrance to their little hiding place, but he saw nothing more than a snake moving all day. Joe slept a great deal, although Ben woke him regularly for water and food. The water in the canteens was stale and flat, but it was wet. Joe drank eagerly whenever he was offered it. Ben drank almost nothing himself. They needed to conserve their water as best they could, in case Adam and Hoss didn\u2019t find any, or didn\u2019t return.<\/p>\n

About mid-afternoon, Joe woke once more, and seemed more alert this time. He sat up, and ate the food Ben offered him. \u201cPa, how did you know to come looking for me?\u201d he asked. His voice was still weary.<\/p>\n

Quietly, Ben told him about the army scout returning to Tyson Wells, and how Adam and Hoss had confessed why Joe had gone to Yuma. Then he told of their hunt across the desert, and the meeting with Emiliano. Joe\u2019s eyes filled with tears again at the thought of his lost friend.<\/p>\n

In return, Joe told Ben about Emiliano. \u201cHe worked for Colonel Green, the man we bought the horse from,\u201d Joe explained. \u201cHe had been one of Wolfe\u2019s commancheros, which is how he knew of the camp. We didn\u2019t have a choice, Pa. We either went without water, or went to the commancheros. The commancheros seemed the lesser of two evils.\u201d Slowly, Joe told of their fight to escape, and the death of Wolfe\u2019s younger brother. \u201cI\u2019m sorry about the horse.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben said. \u201cBut I would have been even sorrier about you, son. When your brothers told me where you had gone\u2026\u201d Ben\u2019s voice trailed off, for he couldn\u2019t say that his heart had skipped a beat. \u201cWe\u2019ll get back to Tyson Wells tomorrow,\u201d he said, \u201cand you can rest properly there. We\u2019ll get a doctor to look at you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d Joe protested, automatically. He tried a smile, but the skin on his lips was still tender, and he winced. \u201cHonest.\u201d<\/p>\n

Smiling, Ben ruffled his son\u2019s tangled curls. Joe was still warm to the touch, and Ben just hoped he would be fit enough to ride on the next day. A finger of sunlight suddenly reached across the blanket covering Joe\u2019s legs, and Ben pulled him back into the shade. It was something he had done throughout the day, as the sun had crept into their retreat. Joe could not afford to get sunstroke.<\/p>\n

All too soon, Joe was dozing again, and Ben was gazing out at the empty desert. Where were Hoss and Adam?<\/p>\n

****************<\/p>\n

They rode warily through the desert, watching around them for any signs that they weren\u2019t alone. They saw nothing, although they were both aware that the Indians could spring from anywhere without warning. By mid-morning, Hoss had found tracks that led in the direction that they wanted to go, and they followed them. A short while after that, they spied the buildings that fitted Joe\u2019s description of Sam Wolfe\u2019s camp.<\/p>\n

Dismounting, they made their way closer, watching for any signs of life. They saw none, apart from the horses in the corral. Leaving their own horses tethered, the brothers split up and eased closer. There were no signs of human life. Finally, they were standing in the small yard, huts on either side. A body lay partially hidden in some bushes, and when they investigated the huts more closely, they found another two corpses. One they guessed was Wolfe\u2019s brother, and the others were Mexicans.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s gather up the food and any canteens we can find,\u201d Adam suggested. \u201cI\u2019ll saddle Cochise, and we\u2019ll see if we can find Joe\u2019s gear.\u201d He glanced around. \u201cJust keep alert.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing,\u201d Hoss agreed, and hunted through the huts for what foodstuffs he could find.<\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t take them long to get ready. Adam had found Cochise fit and well, and the saddle in the barn. Hoss had found Joe\u2019s gun, rifle and gun belt, along with his wallet, still containing several hundred dollars, in one of the huts. Between them, they had unearthed half a dozen canteens, and filled them all from the well. Adam had also found some ammunition, and had taken it, too. On the ground, they came across Joe\u2019s black hat.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get out of here,\u201d Adam suggested. \u201cWe\u2019ve lingered too long.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa and Little Joe will sure be worried,\u201d Hoss agreed. They hurried back to where they had left their horses, unaccountably relieved to find them still there. They hastily watered the horses, then mounted up for the long trek back to their campsite.<\/p>\n

Some instinct, deep seated and primeval, warned them that they were not alone. Yet, every time they looked round, they saw nothing. The desert shimmered with heat, and a number of times, Adam reached for his gun, only to discover that what he saw wasn\u2019t there at all. Hoss led the way, following the tracks they had made earlier. The desert was featureless, and Adam wasn\u2019t sure he would have found his way back without Hoss\u2019 tracking ability.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot far now,\u201d Hoss said, as they rested during the late afternoon. He wiped sweat from his head and looked around. \u201cI sure feel like there\u2019s someone out there watchin\u2019 us,\u201d he added, in an undertone. \u201cBut I plumb cain\u2019t spot anythin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMe, too,\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cLet\u2019s push on.\u201d They mounted and rode off.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere it is,\u201d Hoss said, pointing across the desert. \u201cThat\u2019s where we\u2019re camped.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s hurry it up a bit then,\u201d Adam suggested, urging Sport into a ground-covering lope. The chestnut\u2019s coat was dark with sweat, but Adam thought that a little speed wouldn\u2019t do the animal any harm. It turned out to be a fortuitous decision.<\/p>\n

A shot rang out and bit into the ground where Adam had been only moments before. Glancing over his shoulder as he urged his horses to greater speed, Adam saw Indians streaming over a rise behind them. Most appeared to be carrying rifles, and one or two had bows and arrows.<\/p>\n

\u201cRide!\u201d Adam urged, and Hoss needed no such urging. They galloped across the desert, returning fire as they went.<\/p>\n

**************<\/p>\n

The gunfire jerked Joe out of sleep, and his eyes opened wide. Ben was crouched at the entrance to their hiding place, his rifle up and ready. \u201cWhat is it?\u201d Joe gasped.<\/p>\n

\u201cIndians after Adam and Hoss,\u201d Ben explained, not looking round.<\/p>\n

Throwing off the blankets, Joe stumbled to his feet, groping for the nearest rifle. He took up a position near to Ben, and aimed. He was disconcerted to discover that his hand was shaking. He peered into the bright light, and saw his brothers coming hell-for-leather across the sand, and he noticed at once that Adam had Cochise, too.<\/p>\n

It was Hoss who reached safety first. He hauled Chubb into the camp area, jumping down and pushing the horse out of the way. He drew his rifle from his scabbard, and stepped aside as Adam entered in a rush.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere, Joe,\u201d Adam said, and handed Joe his own rifle, reclaiming his one at the same time. He gave his youngest brother a searching look as he knelt beside him, but Joe seemed to be all right. After that, there was little time to watch him.<\/p>\n

The Indians fanned out, firing at the bluff where the Cartwrights had sought shelter. They returned fire, attempting to get the Indians scattering at first, but finally aiming at the braves when they saw that they weren\u2019t going to scatter.<\/p>\n

The firefight continued for some time, with no gains for either side. Finally, the light faded, and the Indians withdrew. Joe sank down behind the rocks and closed his eyes. Adam, after checking that Ben and Hoss were still on watch, drew back, too, and knelt by Joe. \u201cAll right, buddy?\u201d he asked. He could see a fresh bloody graze on Joe\u2019s head, but it wasn\u2019t serious. They were all marked by such minor injuries.<\/p>\n

Opening his eyes, Joe tried for a smile. \u201cI\u2019m all right, Adam,\u201d he assured him. \u201cJust tired. Are you all right?\u201d He reached out a dirty, shaking hand, and traced the path of a scratch down Adam\u2019s cheek.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re all fine,\u201d Adam said. \u201cYou get some rest, now. They won\u2019t attack while it\u2019s dark.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can take my turn standing watch,\u201d Joe insisted. \u201cThey might take the chance and attack. We haven\u2019t killed any.\u201d<\/p>\n

By now, Ben had crawled over. \u201cJoe, you\u2019ll do what you\u2019re told!\u201d he said, mock-sternly. \u201cYou need to rest, so we can get out of here tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

The exhausted youth just looked at Ben disbelievingly. There was no way they were going to get out of there the next day, or even the day after. They were trapped, and it was only a matter of time before the Apaches stormed their hideout, trusting to the superiority of numbers to give them victory. \u201cSure, Pa,\u201d he said, dully.<\/p>\n

The Cartwrights ate a cold meal of the food that Hoss had stuffed into his saddlebags. One of them stood watch at all times, and they kept their heads down. The sky was clear and cloudless, and a full moon shone out brightly. Ben, looking at it as it rode high in the sky, cursed it. If the night had been dark and moonless, they might have tried to escape. Like Joe, Ben didn\u2019t think they were going to get out of this fix. If only the army would come looking for them, but based on his conversation with the lieutenant before they left Tyson Wells, he thought it extremely unlikely.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll stand first watch,\u201d Ben said. \u201cYou get some rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

Nodding, for they were exhausted, Adam and Hoss went to lie down. Joe was already wrapped in his bedroll, but he wasn\u2019t asleep. \u201cI can take a watch,\u201d he insisted.<\/p>\n

Glancing between his parent and sibling, Adam saw that they weren\u2019t going to be able to sort this one out without heated words, which none of them needed right then. Ben was too tired and worried to see that Joe thought this whole situation was his fault, and was determined to do what he could to expiate that guilt.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf we need you to take a watch, Joe,\u201d he said, over-riding what Ben had started to say, \u201cwe\u2019ll waken, you don\u2019t worry. But that will be later in the night, all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Scowling darkly at Adam, Joe tried to figure out what was wrong with that statement, but he couldn\u2019t quite get it. He was done in, even though he wouldn\u2019t admit it. He nodded, finally. \u201cAll right,\u201d he agreed. \u201cBut waken me.\u201d He lay down and closed his eyes. Within a few seconds, his body relaxed, his breathing evened out and the frown disappeared as he eased into a deep sleep.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Adam,\u201d Ben said. \u201cI don\u2019t know what\u2019s got into the boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s feeling guilty,\u201d Adam said, marveling that Ben couldn\u2019t see it for himself. Ben knew Joe better than anyone else.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben admitted, sitting down by Joe for a moment, and succumbing to the temptation to stroke his head. \u201cHe\u2019s still running a slight temperature,\u201d he said, concerned. \u201cI wish I knew how we were going to get out of this,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s see what happens in the morning,\u201d Adam said. \u201cWaken me when you need to.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSleep well, son,\u201d Ben said. He went back to his post, and looked out. There was no sign of movement. \u201cPlease Lord, help us,\u201d he prayed.<\/p>\n

*****************<\/p>\n

The night passed peacefully with no alarms to spoil the little rest they got. Just before dawn, Adam roused Joe, urging him to stand watch for a few minutes while Hoss prepared some food. Joe looked a little better, to everyone\u2019s relief. His eyes were clearer, and his hands shook less. His muscle tone was better, too.<\/p>\n

All too soon, dawn crept over the land, stealing away the only defense they had \u2013 the darkness. Grimly, the Cartwrights prepared to defend themselves once more, knowing that they were facing annihilation, and praying that a miracle might occur. Ben made sure he had a private word with each son.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, thank you for all you\u2019ve done this trip,\u201d he said. As his son started to stammer out something, Ben waved the comments away. \u201cYou\u2019ve stood by me through every decision I\u2019ve made, and supported your brothers, too. I love you, son, and always have. Thank you for that magnificent gift you wanted to give me. I don\u2019t think I deserve it, but I am touched by your love.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAw, Pa,\u201d Hoss said, but couldn\u2019t find any other words. He simply flung his arms round Ben and gave him a squeeze.<\/p>\n

Adam was next. \u201cWe\u2019ve been through a lot together,\u201d he said, draping his arm round Adam\u2019s shoulders. \u201cYou\u2019ve been my companion and friend as well as my son. I don\u2019t think I told you often enough how much that has meant to me over the years. You gave up your childhood for me, and don\u2019t think I don\u2019t know what that cost you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt didn\u2019t cost any more than I was willing to pay,\u201d Adam returned, quietly. He was very moved by the emotion in Ben\u2019s voice and eyes. \u201cYou\u2019ve been both father and mother to me over the years, Pa, and I know how difficult that\u2019s been. I\u2019ve tried to show you how much I love you, but I don\u2019t know if I succeeded.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou did, son,\u201d Ben said, softly. \u201cYou did.\u201d He gave Adam a brief hug, knowing that, even in this difficult moment, Adam wouldn\u2019t tolerate more than that.<\/p>\n

Talking to Joe was both easier and more difficult. The boy was so young, and Ben thought that the dirt streaked liberally on his face made him look even younger. Yet he had taken a man\u2019s part when he should still be carefree, and hadn\u2019t voiced any complaint. \u201cJoe, I\u2019m sorry it had to come to this,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all my fault, Pa,\u201d Joe said. He leant his curly head against Ben\u2019s shoulder, and the gesture warmed his father\u2019s heart.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, its not, but that doesn\u2019t matter, anyway. I\u2019m just sorry that I haven\u2019t been able to get you safely home, you and your brothers,\u201d he went on. \u201cI love you all, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the horse.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe wanted it to be the greatest horse we could find,\u201d Joe said. \u201cBecause that was the only way we could tell you we loved you.\u201d He smiled slightly. \u201cYet it seems easier to say that straight out now. I don\u2019t know why.\u201d He reached out and drew his father into a crushing hug. \u201cI love you, Pa,\u201d he said, huskily.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I love you,\u201d Ben returned, no less huskily.<\/p>\n

************<\/p>\n

The morning wore slowly on, and the Apaches didn\u2019t attack. Ben was pleased to see that each of his sons took time to talk to the others, although he was never to know what passed between them. But the strain of constant vigilance was beginning to tell on them all.<\/p>\n

Suddenly, just before noon, the Apaches attacked. They rode across the burning sand like lunatics, hollering, shouting, and firing. The Cartwrights ducked for cover, returning fire when they could, but conserving both their ammunition and their energy. They all suspected that this attack was cover for something else, but they didn\u2019t have time to look round. All their attention was focused on staying alive, and keeping the Indians from over-running their position.<\/p>\n

Finally, the Indians withdrew once more, and the Cartwrights took stock. They still had quite a bit of ammunition, thanks to the load that Adam had brought back the day before. None of them had been injured. But how long they could hold out was another matter.<\/p>\n

A tiny sound made Adam turn, and the cry left his mouth before he had even sorted out what he was seeing. \u201cJoe!\u201d On the rocks above his youngest brother\u2019s position, a brave had appeared, knife in hand, and was about to jump on the unsuspecting youngster.<\/p>\n

Not wasting the time needed to look, Joe just dived flat, causing the Indian to over-shoot his target, and miss. The other members of the family immediately headed towards Joe, but shots were suddenly ringing out from below, and they dived for safety.<\/p>\n

Scrambling to his knees, Joe faced the brave. He had dropped his pistol as he dived, and was unarmed. He watched as the brave came carefully towards him. Joe had faced knives in fights before, and he knew better than to rush at him. He braced himself and waited.<\/p>\n

At once, the brave lunged at Joe, who met the attack perfectly, flipping the surprise Indian over his head, where he landed with bruising impact. Joe didn\u2019t give him any time to recover, though. He whirled round and lunged at the downed man, and a fierce struggle ensued. Each fought for possession of the knife, and both suffered several shallow cuts as the fight progressed.<\/p>\n

But luck was on Joe\u2019s side. He brought his knee up sharply, catching the brave in the ribs. He grunted as the air whooshed out of his lungs, and his death-grip on the knife slackened slightly. It was all the chance Joe needed. He twisted his arm sharply and plunged the knife between the brave\u2019s ribs. The brave stiffened, and died.<\/p>\n

Panting, Joe slumped back. He wiped sweat from his brow, and turned to see how his family was doing. But Joe hadn\u2019t realized that his fight had taken him away from the protective cover of the rocks, and as he rose from the ground, he was fully exposed to enemy fire. A fusillade of bullets peppered off the rocks beside him, but they all missed. However, the silent fire did not. An arrow struck Joe in the back, and he collapsed soundlessly.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Ben exclaimed, and, heedless of his own safety, he dived across to his son and pulled him to shelter. Adam and Hoss increased their fire, and saw the bow-wielding brave go down for good. \u201cJoe,\u201d Ben said, again, and was rewarded when Joe opened his eyes slightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Pa,\u201d he whispered, although Ben couldn\u2019t imagine what he had to be sorry for. It had been torture for Ben, unable to get to Joe to help him fight off the brave, but he had been pinned down by cross fire.<\/p>\n

\u201cShh, son, it\u2019s all right,\u201d Ben soothed. He started to unbutton Joe\u2019s shirt. \u201cI\u2019ve got to see how deep this arrow is in,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ll try not to hurt you, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Puling Joe\u2019s shirt away, Ben saw that the arrow had struck him on his left shoulder blade, and wasn\u2019t in too deeply. It would be possible to pull it out by hand, but Ben knew this would cause Joe a lot of pain. It would have to be done, and Joe was pale enough already. Ben bit his lip.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d It was Adam, and he sounded excited. Raising his head, Ben glanced round to see what was happening. As he did so, he realized that although the sound of shooting hadn\u2019t diminished, it was no longer aimed at them. He frowned, puzzled, unable to understand what was going on. \u201cIt\u2019s the army, Pa!\u201d Adam shouted. \u201cThe army!\u201d<\/p>\n

The army! It was the miracle they needed. Ben spared a moment to thank the Lord, before beckoning to Adam. \u201cCome and help me with Joe,\u201d he said, and both his sons slid down to where Joe lay.<\/p>\n

After a quick consultation, it was decided that Hoss would pull the arrow out, and Adam and Ben would hold Joe down. \u201cQuickly, son,\u201d Ben urged Hoss, who took the arrow in his mighty hand and pulled. It came free instantly, and Joe let out a cry of pain before slumping down unconscious.<\/p>\n

Leaving Ben to tend to their brother, Adam and Hoss went back to their positions to see if there was any way they could assist the army in driving off the Indians. Ben heard them shoot a few times, but he was more concerned with Joe.<\/p>\n

The wound on his shoulder bled freely once the arrow was out, and Ben sacrificed Joe\u2019s shirt to make bandages. The small cuts he had received from the brave\u2019s knife needed cleaning so that infection didn\u2019t set in, and Ben soon had Joe\u2019s left arm in a makeshift sling. By then, Joe was conscious again. He took the water Ben pressed on him, and lay back. Ben stroked his head. \u201cHow do you feel, son?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cSore,\u201d Joe replied, honestly. \u201cI\u2019m tired, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Joe. It\u2019ll be over soon, and we\u2019ll get you to a doctor. You just rest while you can.\u201d Ben glanced up at his other sons. Joe tiredly followed his gaze. It relieved him to see Adam and Hoss were all right, but it was a distant relief. Joe\u2019s body was rebelling against the abuses of the previous day, and he could barely keep his eyes open. He blinked, wondering why he could hear gunfire when none of his family was using their weapons.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s shooting?\u201d he asked, finally.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe army,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cWe\u2019ve been saved, Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere they come,\u201d Adam called down, and stood up, waving to signal their position.<\/p>\n

Within a short time, the army patrol was crowded round the entrance to the Cartwrights\u2019 campsite. Ben went forward to greet the lieutenant he had spoken to at Tyson Wells. Adam retrieved a shirt from Ben\u2019s saddlebags and eased Joe into it. \u201cLieutenant, I\u2019m delighted to see you,\u201d Ben said, clasping the other\u2019s out-stretched hand. \u201cI thought we were goners.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLuck is certainly on your side, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d the lieutenant answered. \u201cI assume that\u2019s your youngest son, right there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s Joe,\u201d Ben replied. He looked back at him. \u201cHe\u2019s been injured \u2013 hit by an arrow. We\u2019ve got it out, but we need to get him back to Tyson Wells to see a doctor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll help you get packed up,\u201d the lieutenant said, and gestured to his men. Within a short time, all the camp was packed up, the horses saddled, and everyone ready to go.<\/p>\n

They didn\u2019t waste time on the way back. Although most of the marauding Indians had been shot or captured, there were still a few unaccounted for, and nobody wanted to meet them. It would be dark before they got back to Tyson Wells, and no one wanted to linger.<\/p>\n

For a time, Joe kept up, but as the punishing heat took its toll on his meager resources, he began to slow down. The dehydration he had suffered was gone, but the exposure still made its mark. Added to that was his injury from the arrow, and Joe was turning into one sick boy. Ben was keeping a sharp eye on him, and when the youth suddenly slumped and almost fell from the saddle, he reached out to catch him, while calling for a halt.<\/p>\n

Rousing Joe with some water, Ben realized that his son was running a good going temperature. It wasn\u2019t really a surprise. His body had been abused for several days, and the shock from the wound earlier that day didn\u2019t help. It was clear that there was no way Joe could ride on alone. He would have to double up with someone. Unfortunately, that would slow them down.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want to do, Mr. Cartwright?\u201d asked the lieutenant. \u201cWe could find somewhere to stop for the night, but to be truthful, I think we\u2019ve about used up all our luck. I think we ought to push on back to the fort.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re right,\u201d Ben said, reluctantly. \u201cJoe needs rest, but he needs a doctor more, and our luck had run out, until you found us. My sons and I will trade off riding with him, and we\u2019ll try not to slow you down too much.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d Ben said, going back to where his son lay, his head cradled in Adam\u2019s lap, as the older son sat between Joe and the sun. \u201cYou\u2019re going to ride with me for a while, all right? We can\u2019t stop here much longer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Joe slurred. \u201cCan I get some water?\u201d His shoulder throbbed relentlessly, and Joe wanted nothing more than to just lie there until he felt better. He struggled to a sitting position with Adam\u2019s help and drank the water offered to him.<\/p>\n

With a nod, Ben and Adam pulled Joe to his feet, and between them helped him onto Buck. Ben mounted behind him, and Hoss took Cochise in tow. Adam mounted, and they all set off again. The soldiers were careful to keep the Cartwrights on the inside of the file.<\/p>\n

The sun was almost down when a short halt was called to transfer Joe to Adam\u2019s horse. Joe was riding in a daze, unable to keep his eyes open, or hold his head up. He gulped the water offered to him, but once more, they didn\u2019t linger. Now that the shadows were getting longer, it was difficult to see clearly, and this was a time that Indians favored for attacking. The tension in the air was almost palatable, and the relief when they were on the move again just as tangible.<\/p>\n

It had been dark for almost 2 hours when the lights of Tyson Wells were spotted. By then, Joe was riding with Hoss, and groaning regularly. His temperature was soaring. Ben hoped that it was just a result of the rough going, and not of some unsuspected poison on the arrowhead. He kept his worries to himself, but he was as relieved as everyone else to see the lights that meant safety.<\/p>\n

A series of shouts ensured the gates were opened for them, and the townspeople and the soldiers that had been left behind all hurried to greet the wanderers. The Lieutenant shouted for the company doctor, and indicated Joe. Two soldiers ran over to take the wounded man from his seat in front of his brother, and gently bore him away. Joe didn\u2019t even notice.<\/p>\n

As Ben started after him, the lieutenant stopped him. \u201cMr. Cartwright, go and get some food, a bath and clean clothes,\u201d he said. \u201cThat\u2019s an order. Your son will be fine while you do that, and if there\u2019s a problem, the doctor will come and get you. But you need some rest before you become ill, too.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Joe\u2026\u201d Ben started.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Pa, the lieutenant is right,\u201d Adam said. \u201cYou need to get changed if nothing else. The doctor won\u2019t let you near Joe if you\u2019re as dirty as this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll tend to your mounts,\u201d the soldier assured him. \u201cAnd your son is right. Our doctor is a stickler for cleanliness.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Ben replied, and went off to the hotel with his sons.<\/p>\n

***************<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the next several days, Ben sat by Joe\u2019s bedside in the military hospital while his son fought the fever induced by exposure and injury. When the doctor had cleaned out the arrow wound, he had discovered that Joe\u2019s shoulder blade was chipped, and he had to remove several splinters of bone. Joe was swathed in bandages like a mummy, with his arm bound firmly across his chest. For most of the time, Joe was asleep, his body demanding rest. Ben bathed Joe\u2019s head, and fed him when he was awake, talking quietly to him all the time. Joe quite often just lay listening to him, smiling slightly as Ben told him about his rant at his brothers when they had told him why Joe had gone to Yuma. Ben thought that Joe had lost weight, for his face looked thinner.<\/p>\n

When Joe was awake, he was quite lucid, despite the fever. Adam and Hoss visited as often as they could, but they were helping the military out by going out with local patrols, to keep a watch for the last of the Indians.\u00a0 However, after three days, the lieutenant received a telegraph, saying that the last of the marauders had been captured, and the land was once more safe for travelers.<\/p>\n

This was good news, but it would be more than a week before Joe would get out of hospital, the doctor told them, and longer still before he was fit to ride home.\u00a0 It was decided that Adam and Hoss would go back to the Ponderosa with the horses they had bought, and then Adam would return to help Ben bring Joe home. If, in the meantime, the Indians returned to the warpath, Adam would stay at the ranch.<\/p>\n

Three weeks later, Joe, Ben and Adam rode out of Tyson Wells to begin the journey home.<\/p>\n

******************<\/p>\n

Epilogue<\/em><\/p>\n

About a month later, Ben sat at his desk, ostensibly doing paperwork, but in reality watching his sons. Adam was seemingly engrossed in a book. Hoss and Joe were playing checkers. They never seemed to tire of the game, although Ben had, on more than one occasion, seen Joe playing chess with Adam. On the desk in front of Ben was a silver mounted dueling pistol, a replacement gift for his birthday. Ben loved it, but as he had pointed out to the boys, they didn\u2019t have to give him anything at all. Just having them all home safe and sound was gift enough.<\/p>\n

Typically, it had been Joe who had pestered his brothers into buying another gift. He was still off work, and his active mind had had plenty of time to think of what else they could get Ben. He had seen the pistol on a trip into town with Ben, and had persuaded Adam to go in and buy it. They had wrapped it carefully and watched with pleasure as Ben had opened the gift.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe wanted to give you a real gift,\u201d Joe said, when Ben had protested that they had no need to buy him anything. \u201cSomething you could touch. Not us \u2013 we\u2019re not really gifts, are we?\u201d<\/p>\n

They had all laughed, but Joe\u2019s words stuck with Ben. He did count his sons as gifts, and had done from the day they were born. They were each precious to him in their own different ways. Leaning back, his pretence of bookkeeping forgotten, Ben watched his sons. Yes, they were gifts, and he was going into the present with them by his side.<\/p>\n

*****End*****<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0 A WHN for The Gift.\u00a0 Ever wondered what happened after Ben found Joe in the desert? Well, here’s my idea of what happened next.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0\u00a0 T \u00a0 \u00a0(7,920 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":1239,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1015,23,41,13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5033","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-joe-pa","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","category-whn","wpcat-1015-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id","wpcat-13-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":3860,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/gift1.jpg?fit=150%2C110&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":11320,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=11320","url_meta":{"origin":5033,"position":0},"title":"Blink of an Eye (by Cheaux)","author":"Cheaux","date":"December 21, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Missing scene from Season 7\u2019s \u201cThe Fighters\u201d written by Robert L. Goodwin Rating: \u00a0T \u00a0\u00a0Word Count:\u00a0 792","rel":"","context":"In "Ben \/ Joe"","block_context":{"text":"Ben \/ Joe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1015"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/The-Fighters.png?fit=929%2C608&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/The-Fighters.png?fit=929%2C608&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/The-Fighters.png?fit=929%2C608&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/The-Fighters.png?fit=929%2C608&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2707,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2707","url_meta":{"origin":5033,"position":1},"title":"Grief (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"February 4, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A short piece reflecting on life after Hoss died. Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0 (950 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/serious-Hoss.jpg?fit=269%2C298&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":4263,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=4263","url_meta":{"origin":5033,"position":2},"title":"What Kind of Man (by Cheaux)","author":"Cheaux","date":"April 27, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe has become unusually introspective, much to the consternation of his brothers. Rated:\u00a0 K -- \u00a0WC \u00a01600","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/coming-soon-9.jpg?fit=320%2C240&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":7307,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7307","url_meta":{"origin":5033,"position":3},"title":"Home Alone (by Sibylle)","author":"Sibylle","date":"May 7, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0\u00a0Hoss and Joe\u00a0alone at home. 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