{"id":5044,"date":"2003-04-16T23:01:12","date_gmt":"2003-04-17T03:01:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5044"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:06:43","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:06:43","slug":"whatever-it-takes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5044","title":{"rendered":"Whatever it Takes (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 <\/strong>A ruthless mining baron takes on the might of the Ponderosa, prepared to do whatever it takes to get what he wants – including murdering the sons of Ben Cartwright.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 \u00a0(9,030 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u00a0Whatever it Takes<\/strong><\/p>\n

The man\u2019s loud voice carried clearly over the noise and hubbub in the saloon. His lips tightening in anger, the young man at the bar straightened. Immediately, a hand clamped onto his wrist. \u201cDon\u2019t,\u201d advised his oldest brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, don\u2019t?\u201d Joe demanded, tugging on his captive limb. \u201cYou heard what he just said about Pa! It ain\u2019t true, and I\u2019m not just gonna stand here and let him say it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes you are,\u201d Adam responded. \u201cPa said there was to be no trouble, and that\u2019s what he meant.\u201d He didn\u2019t relinquish his grip on Joe\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet go of me, Adam,\u201d Joe said, furiously.<\/p>\n

Moving in on Joe\u2019s other side, his middle brother, Hoss, put his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder. \u201cYou ain\u2019t gonna do nothin\u2019, Shortshanks,\u201d he said. \u201cAdam\u2019s right. He\u2019s just lookin\u2019 fer trouble, an\u2019 Pa said we wasn\u2019t to cause any trouble. So just simmer down an\u2019 drink yer beer.\u201d<\/p>\n

Glaring at his brothers, Joe struggled for a moment longer before bowing to the inevitable. \u201cAll right,\u201d he said, sulkily. \u201cLet go. I won\u2019t do anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

Looking searchingly at Joe, Adam let go of his wrist. He was more convinced by his brother\u2019s posture than by his words. When Joe was angry, or upset, or sulking, his head dropped, and that was how he was standing now. His head was down, and the tension had gone from his body. Adam was no less angry than either Joe or Hoss, but he knew perfectly well what would happen if Joe started a fight with that particular man. At the end of it, Joe would end up in jail, and the whole town would know about the dispute between Ben Cartwright of the Ponderosa ranch, and Bill Collins, of Silver Hills Mine.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019m going home,\u201d Joe said. He straightened up and tugged his hat down. \u201cSee you later.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa said to wait here,\u201d Hoss protested.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhich would you rather?\u201d Joe asked, sparks seeming to fly from his eyes. \u201cThat I went home, or started a fight?\u201d Hoss didn\u2019t answer. Joe nodded. \u201cI thought so,\u201d he remarked and strode out. More than one pair of eyes followed him out.<\/p>\n

Sighing, Adam drained his glass. Hoss eyed his older brother. \u201cPa said we shouldn\u2019t go about alone,\u201d Hoss commented, uneasily. \u201cAn\u2019 he told us to wait here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe can look after himself,\u201d Adam said. \u201cHe\u2019s mad plain through, so we\u2019re better to let him go and ride it off. Perhaps by the time we\u2019re all back home, Joe will be in a better mood.\u201d He signaled the barman for another beer. \u201cHe was warned what might happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gazing gloomily into his beer, Hoss nodded. Ben had warned them all that there would be talk in town, but that they weren\u2019t to do anything to stir up trouble \u2013 and that included starting a fight to protect his good name. Collins had started this vendetta after Ben had refused to sell him the mining rights for the Ponderosa, which abutted the Silver Hills mine, and then refused to supply the timber needed to shore up the mind. It was after that, that the whispering campaign against Ben had begun. It was reaching the stage that Ben was finding it difficult to hire men, and some of the newer storekeepers in town were demanding payment for every item, instead of allowing Ben credit, as other stores did.<\/p>\n

Knowing Joe\u2019s penchant for trouble, Ben had made the stricture about not going about alone. He didn\u2019t really think that anyone would attack his sons, but he was sure someone would try and provoke them into causing trouble, and he thought that if they were alone, it was much more likely than if they were together. It was mostly aimed at Joe, but it wouldn\u2019t be the first time Adam or Hoss had gone off the deep end, either, trying to protect their father.<\/p>\n

That evening, Ben had a meeting with his lawyer and the sheriff, trying to establish if there was anything he could do about the rumors that were spreading about him. The boys had gone with him, none of them willing to let Ben go alone, and none of them prepared to wait tamely behind at home. Ben had been uneasy, knowing what could happen in a saloon, and so had laid down the law to them before they left. Now Joe had gone off alone, and Hoss couldn\u2019t shake the uneasy feeling he had. He didn\u2019t know if it was just because Ben would chew them out, or if he suspected something might happen to Joe.<\/p>\n

Turning to lean against the bar, Hoss became aware of how many people in the saloon were watching him and Adam. Pretending not to notice, Hoss continued to survey the room. A number of men that he had counted as friends couldn\u2019t meet his gaze. Turning back, Hoss hunched over his glass. \u201c\u201dI don\u2019t like this, Adam,\u201d he said, quietly. \u201cThere\u2019s folks in here as I thought were friends of ours, an\u2019 they ain\u2019t even meetin\u2019 my eyes. Collins has spread this story further than we all thought. How can folks who know us believe it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Adam replied, wishing he had another answer for Hoss. He glanced briefly over his shoulder. \u201cBut if something\u2019s said often enough, people start to believe it. And Collins is a powerful man. He\u2019s hired a lot of people since he arrived here six months ago.\u201d He took a sip of his beer, and realized that he didn\u2019t really want it. \u201cRemember how it was with Tom Sladen? He came in and began to build up his business, and before we knew it, he was holding the town to ransom. Its looking like the same thing is happening with Bill Collins.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Hoss said, sounding down, and Adam remember that it had been Hoss who had found Joe lying in the road, shot through the shoulder. The memories associated with that whole incident were unpleasant, even if things had been resolved in the end.<\/p>\n

There was movement at the entrance, and Ben Cartwright came in. He saw the boys at once, and frowned as he noted Joe\u2019s absence. His face was already grim, and Adam felt a pang through his gut. He dropped a coin on the bar, and he and Hoss went over to join Ben. \u201cPa?\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot here,\u201d Ben said. \u201cWhere\u2019s Joe?\u201d He glanced round again, as though expecting to see his youngest son sitting at one of the tables.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe went home,\u201d Adam replied. At the look on Ben\u2019s face, he said, \u201cThere were comments and Joe decided it would be better to go home than have a fight.\u201d As his father\u2019s frown deepened, Adam said, \u201cJoe can take care of himself, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go then,\u201d Ben said, although it was clear that he wasn\u2019t happy with Joe\u2019s decision. He turned on his heel and left, with Adam and Hoss following. He silently mounted his horse and turned towards home.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t until they were out of the city that Adam finally persuaded Ben to tell them what had happened. \u201cThere\u2019s been a new development,\u201d Ben said, his tone hard. \u201cPromissory notes have been signed in some of the stores with the initials BC. It was implied that those were my initials, and that\u2019s why the storekeepers weren\u2019t happy. Bills have been run up, and Collins is denying that they are his, and saying outright that they are mine.\u201d Ben swallowed down his indignation, and continued. \u201cAs it happens, I can prove that they aren\u2019t mine, but it leaves the storekeepers out of pocket, some of them for a large amount.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you think its Bill Collins,\u201d Adam probed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s what I think, and what Roy and Hiram think.\u201d Roy was Roy Coffee, sheriff of Virginia City, and Hiram was Hiram Wood, Ben\u2019s lawyer. \u201cBut we can\u2019t prove it. I asked Hiram to write to the storekeepers to assure them that I can pay my bills, as there is now a story going around that I am bankrupt, and can\u2019t pay for timber crews, which is why I\u2019m not selling timber to Silver Hills.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all so pointless,\u201d commented Adam, angrily. \u201cDoes he really think that we\u2019ll give in and sell him that timber, when you\u2019ve explained why you aren\u2019t going to?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I really think he does think so,\u201d Ben responded. \u201cWhat scares me is what he\u2019ll do when he discovers I won\u2019t change my mind.\u201d Ben said no more, but Adam was able to follow his thoughts with ease. What if someone went after his sons? What then?<\/p>\n

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

It was a relief to find Joe safely at home. Ben said nothing about him leaving alone, for he could plainly see how Joe was feeling, and knew that a lecture, however well intentioned, would result in an explosion of temper, and Ben was too tired, and too angry, to deal with Joe\u2019s tantrums. Ben knew only too well that when two angry people clashed, things were said that weren\u2019t meant, but were never forgotten. Following Ben\u2019s lead, neither Adam nor Hoss said anything either.<\/p>\n

It was late, and they were all tired, but Ben wasn\u2019t the only Cartwright who found it difficult to sleep that night. Joe was so wound up that it was nearly dawn before his eyes finally closed. Hoss had managed to drop off near midnight, and Adam made it by 2 am. Ben fell asleep about 3. His dreams were populated by dark shadows and a strong sense of foreboding. When he woke about 6, he felt as though he had never been to sleep.<\/p>\n

Over breakfast, Ben once more insisted that the boys didn\u2019t go around alone. After the discussions the previous night, he knew that they would have to be extremely wary, so as not to confirm any of the rumors, even accidentally. He didn\u2019t want them getting involved in any brawls, especially in the saloons, and they were not to go into town alone for either mail or supplies. \u201cCollins wants to discredit us by our own actions,\u201d he said, eyeing Joe especially. He knew the trouble Joe\u2019s hot temper could get him into. \u201cSo please, don\u2019t do anything that might play into his hands.\u201d<\/p>\n

Solemnly, they all promised to be careful. They didn\u2019t eat much that meal, and soon excused themselves to get on with the day\u2019s work. This was about the worst crisis any of them could remember, and it knocked even Joe\u2019s natural ebullience for six. They were all silent as they went about that day\u2019s work.<\/p>\n

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

In the shack that passed for an office at Silver Hills mine, Bill Collins listened intently as his right hand man, Jerome Weber, told him about the reactions of the Cartwright sons in the saloon the previous night.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s our next move, then,\u201d Collins said. \u201cIf we can get to Ben Cartwright through his sons, then that\u2019s what we\u2019re going to do. Find someone and pay them well. Enough to shut their mouths. Get them to do what\u2019s necessary, and then kill them. We can get the money back then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow far do you want us to go?\u201d Weber asked.<\/p>\n

Glancing out of the grimy window at the entrance to the mine, Collins thought. \u201cIt would be useful to have one here, where we can get our hands on him at any time,\u201d he said, finally. \u201cAnd you could kill one. I\u2019m sure Cartwright would get the message then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, boss.\u201d Weber turned away, then looked back over his shoulder. A wolfish grin split his face. \u201cWhatever it takes, huh, boss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d Collins said, exchanging a grin with him. \u201cJust like in California, Jerome. Whatever it takes.\u201d He watched his friend leave, remembering when they had done something similar in California a few years before. Then, it had been the man\u2019s daughter he had attacked, and through that had gained the mining rights for his almost played-out mine there. When it was almost exhausted, he had sold up, and moved to Nevada, where there were fortunes in silver being mined from the Comstock load. He wanted the rights to mine under the Ponderosa, and he was going to get them, whatever it took.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever it takes,\u201d he repeated to himself and smiled slightly. He entertained visions of Ben Cartwright\u2019s face when he found one son dead and another missing. He found the prospect rather pleasing.<\/p>\n

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

Crouching above the road, Weber and his new accomplice, Jim Smith, saw two of the Cartwrights riding towards them. Weber smiled. This would make things easier for him, he reflected. Collins was growing impatient at his lack of progress in killing and kidnapping. Almost a week had passed since the orders were given. It had taken Weber three days to find Smith, and they had been watching the road into town continuously since then. They knew that some of the Cartwrights would go into town eventually, as they had to collect mail and supplies. Finally, here were two of them, going into town, and on a wagon, no less. Things were going his way, he reflected.<\/p>\n

There had been silence on the wagon so far, but Joe finally broke it. \u201cPa sure is down,\u201d Joe commented. \u201cI hate to see him like this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Adam agreed. \u201cI sure wish there was something we could do, too, but I don\u2019t know what.\u201d He shook up the team slightly. He shot a mischievous glance sideways at Joe. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, buddy? Tired of being good?\u201d he joked.<\/p>\n

Snorting, Joe tried very hard not to laugh, but he couldn\u2019t quite manage. \u201cHaha,\u201d he said. \u201cYou\u2019re so clever, did you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCollege educated,\u201d said Adam modestly. \u201cI knew that.\u201d He ducked to avoid the swing Joe made at him.<\/p>\n

The bullet from Smith\u2019s rifle hit Adam in the left chest, and knocked him back against Joe, who clutched at Adam to prevent them both falling out of the wagon. The reins dropped from Adam\u2019s hands, and the horses, confused, shambled to a stop. Joe had his hands full with the unconscious Adam, and hadn\u2019t even drawn his gun when Weber and Smith appeared at the side of the wagon.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet down, kid,\u201d Weber ordered, his voice muffled by the bandanna tied over his face.<\/p>\n

Hesitating, not sure what to do about Adam, Joe was unprepared for Weber grabbing his arm and hauling him bodily from the seat. Adam toppled over to bounce from the seat to the running board of the wagon. \u201cAdam!\u201d Joe cried, and started to rise from where he had landed on the ground, but was met with a vicious kick that floored him again.<\/p>\n

\u201cTie him up,\u201d Weber ordered, and Smith put down his rifle and uncoiled the rope that hung on his shoulder.<\/p>\n

Glancing between the two, Joe had no idea who they were, or what they wanted, but he could take a pretty good guess. In that split second, he made up his mind, and leaped to his feet, bowling Smith over. He managed four steps before Weber tackled him, and brought him crashing to the ground once more.<\/p>\n

But Joe wasn\u2019t prepared to give in that easily. He jabbed his elbow into his attacker\u2019s face, and Weber\u2019s grip loosened. Joe kicked him off, and scrambled to his feet again. But Smith was there, too, and recovered from Joe\u2019s initial attack. He had retrieved his rifle, and as Joe regained his feet, smacked the weapon hard between Joe\u2019s shoulder blades. Joe went down and out.<\/p>\n

Panting, Weber regained his feet. \u201cTie him up, and make sure the knots are tight,\u201d he ordered Smith. \u201cI want him blindfolded and gagged, too.\u201d He looked down on the unconscious youth with disgust. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to be too gentle with him, either,\u201d he commented, as he retrieved his hat.<\/p>\n

Smith grinned as he knelt by Joe and began to bind the youth\u2019s hands.<\/p>\n

A short time after, Weber rode off, leading a horse that had Joe slung over it. Smith\u2019s body lay a short distance from the Ponderosa wagon where Adam lay, his life\u2019s blood pumping slowly out of his body.<\/p>\n

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

It was a desperately uncomfortable journey for Joe, both physically and mentally. When he roused, he wondered for several minutes where he was, and when he realized that he was blindfolded and gagged, he was furious. He struggled fiercely against his bonds, but to no avail. He had a splitting headache, and an unrelenting throb had centered between his shoulder blades where the rifle had struck him. Finally admitting that he wasn\u2019t going to get free in a hurry, he slumped down, trying to concentrate on breathing, for every step the horse took jolted the breath from his body.<\/p>\n

But ceasing to struggle physically gave him time to think about what had happened, and he wondered if Adam were alive or dead. Joe hadn\u2019t heard the shot that struck Adam, and he doubted if Adam had either. But Joe had certainly seen the blood spurting from Adam\u2019s back and he could feel it sticky on his fingers. Tears soaked into his blindfold as he thought about his injured brother. Would Adam survive until help reached him, or would he die from his injuries? Not knowing was torture for Joe.<\/p>\n

Finally, the horse jolted to a stop, and a voice spoke. \u201cTwo in one move, boss.\u201d Joe recognized it as the man who had pulled him from the wagon. \u201cThe other is dead.\u201d Joe\u2019s heart contracted painfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d replied another voice, close by Joe\u2019s head. He flinched. \u201cWhich one is this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe youngest, I think,\u201d said the first. \u201cDoes it matter?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot to me,\u201d answered the second voice. \u201cBut I want to know what name to put in the note to Cartwright. Get him out of sight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, boss,\u201d replied the first, and the horse began to move again. Within a few moments, Joe could tell they were in a barn. The horse stopped, and fingers fumbled at the thongs holding Joe onto the saddle. He made an effort to kick at the person, but missed completely. He paid for it, however, as he was dragged from the horse to land with a crash on the ground.<\/p>\n

While he was still gasping for breath, he was dragged a few feet across the ground and hauled into a sitting position, his back against something firm. Joe guessed it was a timber supporting the roof as he felt a rope tied around his chest. It was tightened brutally tight, and another loop was tied around his stomach, which ached from his position on the horse.<\/p>\n

A hand ruffled his hair, and Joe ducked away from it. A second later, the fingers tightened in his hair, pulling. Joe stifled a wince. \u201cBehave, boy, and you\u2019ll be all right,\u201d he was told. \u201cYou don\u2019t behave, you get what your brother got.\u201d His head was given a shake. \u201cThat clear?\u201d<\/p>\n

Reluctantly, Joe nodded. He was completely helpless, and no one knew where he was. As the footsteps retreated, and the barn door banged, Joe felt his heart plummet into his boots. Trouble had found him once more, and this time his Pa was going to be the one to suffer the consequences. Hot tears soaked into his blindfold once more as he thought of Adam, and of how his family would feel when they found him.<\/p>\n

It was a long night for Joe.<\/p>\n

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

Looking down at Adam, Ben felt anger growing in him, stronger and stronger each minute. His sons had been ambushed, and he was responsible for it. But how was he to have known that Collins would go to such lengths to get what he wanted? And was it still worth refusing, Ben wondered. He didn\u2019t care what happened to him, as long as his sons were safe. Collins obviously knew this. Joe was missing, and Ben had to assume that Collins had him.<\/p>\n

Tension sat heavily across Ben\u2019s shoulders, and he flinched when a large, warm hand touched his shoulder and began to massage gently. Turning his head, he met Hoss\u2019 concerned blue gaze. \u201cAre ya all right, Pa?\u201d he asked, softly, lest he disturb his sleeping brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, son,\u201d he admitted. \u201cAdam might have died out there, and for all we know, Joe might be dead. How can I be all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Hoss said, heavily. \u201cBut Paul said Adam\u2019s gonna be all right, didn\u2018t he?\u201d The anguish in Hoss\u2019 voice was unmistakable, and Ben was reminded, as if he needed reminding, that he had three sons that needed him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Paul thinks Adam will pull through,\u201d Ben said. \u201cBut if he had lain out there until we realized he was missing, he would have died.\u201d Ben tried to repress the shudder that ran down his spine. If Fred hadn\u2019t been coming back from a neighboring ranch, where he had been helping out for a few days, Adam would certainly have died. As it was, he was seriously ill, but likely to recover. Roy was still trying to discover the identity of the dead man found at the scene.<\/p>\n

Of Joe, there had been no trace.<\/p>\n

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

There was no discernible difference between night and day for Joe. He thought he had slept a little, but the relentless throb of his shoulders and stomach robbed him of rest. When he was awake, he strained his ears to hear any sounds there might be, but apart from some snuffling of the horses in the barn, there was silence.<\/p>\n

When the barn door opened the next day, Joe started. Unconsciously, he drew his legs up, so he felt slightly less vulnerable. But Joe was no fool. He knew he was completely helpless, and at the mercy of whomever had taken him captive. Although Joe suspected that it was Bill Collins, he didn\u2019t know, and had no way of finding out.\u00a0 Footsteps approached him, and Joe suddenly caught the smell of hot bacon. His stomach rumbled. It had been many hours since Joe had last eaten.<\/p>\n

Rough hands pulled the gag out of Joe\u2019s mouth and a canteen of water was shoved at him. \u201cDrink!\u201d ordered a voice, and Joe obediently gulped down the liquid. He didn\u2019t need to be told to do it. After a few mouthfuls, the canteen was withdrawn and Joe smelt the bacon suddenly closer. He opened his mouth without prompting and chewed the resulting mouthful. The bacon was burnt and crispy, but it tasted great to Joe. Once he had finished eating, he was offered more water, and allowed to drink his fill. Not knowing when he would next get any, Joe drank deeply.<\/p>\n

The canteen was withdrawn again, and Joe started to thank whoever it was for the food. However, he didn\u2019t get a chance to say anything, as the gag was thrust roughly back in. Joe fought helplessly against it, but the cloth was tied tightly round his head. Then the blindfold and the ropes were checked, and then the footsteps left.<\/p>\n

Joe was alone.<\/p>\n

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

Sitting looking out of the office shack\u2019s window, Collins stroked his chin thoughtfully. He knew that Joe Cartwright would be useful to him, but he wasn\u2019t sure how long he wanted to keep the youth around for. The longer he was there, the more chance there was of him being discovered by one of the miners. Although Collins paid well, and was almost universally feared, he knew there was always a chance that someone would find Joe, and tell the sheriff.<\/p>\n

Rising to look at the map pinned to the wall, Collins traced the path he wanted to mine under the Ponderosa. How long would it be before Ben Cartwright capitulated to his demands? Collins smiled grimly. Did Cartwright really think that giving in would get him his son back in one piece? No, once Cartwright had granted the mining rights, he would get Joe back dead. And he still had another son living that could prove useful if the need arose. And if he had to kill all three sons, well, it didn\u2019t matter. Cartwright certainly wouldn\u2019t have any resistance left if that happened.<\/p>\n

The office door burst open, and Weber came in. Collins knew at once that he wouldn\u2019t like whatever his deputy had come to tell him. He was right.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoss, Adam Cartwright is still alive!\u201d Weber panted. He shut the door behind him with a bang. \u201cI just heard in town.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow can that be?\u201d Collins demanded. \u201cDidn\u2019t you make sure he was dead?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was bleeding heavily,\u201d Weber said, defensively. \u201cThe wagon was miles from anywhere. I was sure he\u2019d be dead before anyone found him.\u201d<\/p>\n

The anger burning through Collins couldn\u2019t be contained. He swung on Weber and backhanded the bigger man across the face. \u201cYou idiot!\u201d Collins screamed. \u201cHe might be able to identify you!\u201d His mind raced as he tried to see a way through this mess. He drew in some deep breaths, and Weber surreptitiously wiped his mouth as he warily watched his boss.<\/p>\n

Calm at last, Collins sat down. Weber hid the sigh of relief that shook him. He had somehow survived the storm, although he knew others who had paid with their lives for making a mistake like he had done. He kept his gaze on Collins, determined not to transgress again.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is what we\u2019ll do,\u201d Collins said. \u201cOnce the shift has changed, and the miners have gone home or underground, move Cartwright. Take him to the abandoned shaft. It\u2019s all ready. There are supplies ready there.\u201d He gestured to a box in the corner. \u201cThen you get out of sight. I don\u2019t want to see you until I send word that its all clear.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere will I go?\u201d Weber asked, fearfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s an old cabin near the abandoned shaft,\u201d Collins said. \u201cYou can stay there. Check on Cartwright every day. Keep his blindfold on, but you can remove the gag. If I need you to kill him, I can send word.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, boss,\u201d Weber said. \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGet out,\u201d Collins said, contemptuously.<\/p>\n

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

As night fell, Adam\u2019s fever rocketed again. Ben had been by his side all day, fighting the infection that coursed through his oldest son\u2019s body. Adam had been unconscious since he had been found the previous day, and there had been no word about Joe. The combined worry had robbed Ben of any chance of rest the previous night, and he didn\u2019t anticipate things changing that coming night.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d Hoss charged into the room, flapping a piece of paper. He looked agitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d Ben asked, tiredly, wondering if he really cared what it was.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis note \u2013 it\u2019s about Joe.\u201d Hoss thrust the paper at his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d Ben snatched it and read it. It basically said that Joe was a prisoner and would be held until such times as Ben agreed to allow Silver Hills to mine the Ponderosa. As the meaning of the words sank in, Ben collapsed back onto the seat. \u201cOh Lord, no!\u201d It was a prayer.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s that Collins, ain\u2019t it?\u201d Hoss asked, angrily. He was twisting his large hands into fists, and Ben didn\u2019t doubt that his son wished he could do that with Collins\u2019 neck, and wring the truth out of him. Unfortunately, it wouldn\u2019t be that simple. Wherever Collins had Joe hidden, it wouldn\u2019t be openly on Silver Hills Mines property.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks that way,\u201d Ben said. \u201cThis isn\u2019t signed, and I doubt if Collins was stupid enough to write this himself. And even if Roy got permission to look round Collins\u2019 mines and home, I doubt if we\u2019d find Joe there. We\u2019ll have to try and convince Collins that we\u2019re willing to let him mine the ranch, and trick him into leading us to Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cD\u2019you think that will work?\u201d Hoss asked, doubtfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben admitted, looking at Adam. \u201cBut I have to try something.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

At the sound of hurried footsteps entering his prison, Joe lifted his head. He was extremely weary, his body aching from the tight confinement. Yet sleep had evaded him. Now, he tensed, and was surprised when someone began to fumble with the ropes that bound him.<\/p>\n

He must have made some sort of questioning sound, for there was a grunt of muffled laughter. \u201cNo, I ain\u2019t here to rescue you, boy,\u201d Weber growled. He was none too gentle as he removed the ropes.<\/p>\n

Tense, Joe wondered if he would be freed enough to make a break for freedom, but his hopes were to be dashed. His hands and feet remained bound, and he was dragged roughly across the ground before being heaved onto a horse, face down on his stomach. He had barely recovered from his last experience of that, and couldn\u2019t stifle a groan. Weber ignored him as he tied the thongs that would stop Joe sliding off the saddle.<\/p>\n

It was a miserable trip for Joe, and by the time it ended, he was in a great deal of discomfort, and determined to make a bid for freedom. He didn\u2019t know how much longer he could endure his captivity. He had too much time to think, and his thoughts were centered chiefly on his family, and the grief they must be feeling over Adam, for Joe was convinced that his oldest brother was dead.<\/p>\n

He was dragged into an echoey place, and somewhere nearby came the steady drip drip drip of water. The air felt damp, too. Joe shivered as the cold penetrated his jacket. He didn\u2019t know where he was, and was afraid to let his imagination break free. Although not claustrophobic, Joe hated mines, and avoided them whenever possible. He had seen too many disasters to be totally comfortable within their confines. Somewhere, a little voice was telling him that this was a mineshaft. Joe tried, hopelessly, to ignore it.<\/p>\n

His chance to break for freedom came as his captor untied his feet. Joe had been awaiting just such an opportunity, and forced his stiff legs into a run. He had no idea which direction to head in, and ran straight into the rock wall. The force of the impact knocked Joe off his feet, and he was dazed for a few minutes. That allowed Weber the chance to shackle Joe\u2019s feet with the irons that were already imbedded in the rock. Then, he untied the youth\u2019s hands, and clipped handcuffs round them. The cuffs were then attached to a chain that went round Joe\u2019s waist. The chain was short enough that Joe wouldn\u2019t be able to get his hands to his face without extreme difficulty. But to make sure that Joe didn\u2019t get the blindfold off \u2013 not that Weber thought it would make any difference if he did \u2013 he fastened a collar round Joe\u2019s neck, and the chain from it was hammered into the wall, too, and effectively kept the youth from bending over.<\/p>\n

Grinning, Weber stepped back to admire his handiwork. Joe was chained to the walls in a seated position. He would be barely able to move, but the food and water would be left within reach. Not easy reach, for Weber had a streak of sadism in his nature, and didn\u2019t want to make anything easy for this boy. Seeing the youth stirring back to full consciousness, Weber reached down and removed the gag.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen good, boy,\u201d he said. \u201cThere\u2019s food and water here.\u201d He put Joe\u2019s hand on them, seeing the youth\u2019s struggle to reach. \u201cI\u2019ll be back to check up on you. There\u2019s no one to hear you shout, so don\u2019t waste your breath.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy Pa will kill you for this,\u201d Joe grated, through his dry mouth. His head pounded unmercifully.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah?\u201d Weber laughed, and punched Joe in the stomach. \u201cI don\u2019t think so, boy. Your Pa is too busy grievin\u2019 for your brother to worry about you!\u201d With a nasty laugh, he left.<\/p>\n

The pain in Joe\u2019s stomach was nothing to the pain in his heart. \u201cOh, Adam,\u201d he sobbed.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cI reckon you\u2019re right, Ben,\u201d Roy said. \u201cBut Collins is a slippery fellow, and catchin\u2019 him is gonna be difficult.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know that,\u201d Ben agreed, his tone exasperated. He tried to stifle his impatience, knowing that he had had time to think this through, and Roy hadn\u2019t. \u201cBut we\u2019ve got to make Collins think that Adam is dead, and I\u2019m willing to do what I have to, to get Joe back.\u201d He swallowed. \u201cIf I thought that allowing him the rights would get Joe back safe and sound, I wouldn\u2019t hesitate. But I know that I won\u2019t get Joe back safely if I do give in.\u201d Ben bit his lip to control the emotions that threatened to break free.<\/p>\n

\u201cI bin checkin\u2019 into Collins background,\u201d Roy said. \u201cAlthough he don\u2019t have a record, he\u2019s well known for bein\u2019 ruthless in business, and there are a few unproved rumors of him doing similar things to this in the past. Are you sure you want to risk this, Ben?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it was your son out there, would you want to?\u201d Ben shot back, and Roy said no more. In truth, Ben wasn\u2019t sure if this was a viable risk, but he had to do something. Adam still hovered between life and death. He still hadn\u2019t regain consciousness, and they were beginning to fear that he never would. Ben didn\u2019t want another son in jeopardy for one second longer than was necessary, and was willing to put his own life on the line to ensure Joe\u2019s safety.<\/p>\n

Once more, they went over the plan, until Roy had it straight. Then Ben rose, put on his hat and shuffled disconsolately outside to his horse. It wasn\u2019t hard to act as though he had lost a son, for in truth he had. He didn\u2019t know where Joe was, and Adam, although they had his body, his mind seemed to be beyond reach. Many people, seeing his downcast head and grim demeanor, paused, and said a prayer, for it was apparent that Adam had died.<\/p>\n

Watching from his office window, Roy gave Ben some time to get clear of town, then went to spread the word that Adam Cartwright had been murdered.<\/p>\n

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

That night was the longest yet for Joe. With extreme difficulty, he had managed to force down some bread, but although he was hungry, his stomach rebelled against the food, and Joe gave up after a time. His head still ached, and his nose was blocked with what felt like dried blood. He had very little recollection of crashing into the wall, and wondered if he had been beaten more than just the punch he remembered. He was grateful that the gag was gone, for otherwise, he\u2019d have been in grave difficulty with his breathing.<\/p>\n

His mind whirled non-stop, and Joe had grieved for Adam endlessly. Once or twice, anger at the callous person who\u2019d shot his brother broke through, but the brief, warming spurt never lasted long as the depressing reality of his captivity impinged on his consciousness again and again. By morning, Joe was no longer sure if he cared whether he lived or died.<\/p>\n

But as the earth above him warmed up with the rising sun, hope began to make its presence felt. Joe was by nature optimistic. He was sure that Ben would be hunting for him, and perhaps his captor was lying about Adam being dead. He was certain his brother had still been alive when he himself had been dragged off, and surely someone would have found him in time? Against all the odds, Joe found that he was no longer despairing.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cThat is tragic, Sheriff,\u201d Collins said. \u201cPoor Mr. Cartwright. Who would do such a thing?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the question,\u201d Roy said, nodding as though he were a complete idiot. He\u2019d often found that his exterior persuaded criminals that he was a bumbling old fool and used it to his advantage. \u201cWe\u2019re askin\u2019 everyone if they were round there about the time it happened, or have heard anything that might help.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d Collins said, fighting to keep the shocked look on his face. \u201cI had heard that Adam had been shot \u2013 I believe one of the miners mentioned it \u2013 but I didn\u2019t know it was life-threatening.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s sad,\u201d Roy said. \u201cAnd the younger lad kidnapped, too. It\u2019s a wicked world.\u201d He kept his eyes on Collins and his face as bland as he knew how, squinting as though he was very shortsighted, and was rewarded a moment later when Collins couldn\u2019t quite contain a smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cPoor man,\u201d he said again. He couldn\u2019t wait to get the sheriff out of his office. He now had Ben Cartwright exactly where he wanted him, and he couldn\u2019t wait to start putting the pressure on him. In his pocket was a note from Ben, saying he was willing to meet and discuss the mining rights.<\/p>\n

After a few more pointless questions, Roy took his leave, making a meal out of mounting, and being sure to clutch the saddle horn as his horse turned. He could feel Collins\u2019 grin on his back until he was out of sight. It didn\u2019t worry Roy that he could no longer see Collins, for Clem and a posse were watching Collins closely.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cI wish I didn\u2019t have to leave you, Adam,\u201d Ben said. \u201cHop Sing is here, though.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe needs you, too,\u201d Adam whispered, and his eyes opened briefly. Adam had finally come round a short time ago, and Ben had filled him in on what had happened, to the best of his knowledge. Adam was still seriously ill; his temperature was high, and he was finding it difficult to stay awake and alert. Ben wished that he could stay with Adam and keep watch over him, as he had through most of Adam\u2019s illnesses, but he had to go and find Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back as soon as I can,\u201d Ben promised. He allowed himself to briefly caress his son\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

\u201cBe careful,\u201d Adam whispered, and didn\u2019t move his head. It comforted him to feel his father\u2019s reassuringly cool hand on his head. As Ben left, Adam slipped into a restless sleep once more.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cHe hasn\u2019t moved yet,\u201d Roy said, and the frustration was clear in his voice. \u201cBut he sent someone off to town, so I\u2019d guess he\u2019s going for more confirmation.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Ben grunted.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is something odd though,\u201d Clem Foster, the deputy said. \u201cThe man he sent isn\u2019t his second in command, who usually does these sorts of errands. We haven\u2019t seen him once since we got here, and that\u2019s been hours.\u201d Clem gave Ben a significant look. \u201cThey\u2019re usually joined at the hip,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere would he be?\u201d Roy asked. \u201cAny idea where he stays?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFar as I know, he lives with Collins,\u201d Clem said. \u201cI\u2019ve never seen him anywhere else.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe hasn\u2019t been there for a few days,\u201d said one of the other men. \u201cHe left a few days ago, and nobody\u2019s seen him come back.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook,\u201d interjected one of the others. \u201cHe\u2019s leaving.\u201d<\/p>\n

They all crowded closer to the ground to avoid being seen, and watched as Collins mounted a bay horse standing outside the shack. He turned and rode off in the opposite direction to the one they had been expecting. \u201cCome on,\u201d Roy said.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s fairly tricky for quite a large body of men to follow one single person in relatively open country without being seen. But thanks to Roy\u2019s skill, and Ben\u2019s determination, they managed the feat. After a short ride, Collins drew up in front of another shack. Weber came out onto the rickety porch at once.<\/p>\n

Sound carried quite well in that area. \u201cWhat are you doing here?\u201d Weber asked, clearly surprised.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re off the hook,\u201d Collins said. \u201cAdam Cartwright died, and Ben will agree to let me mine on the Ponderosa. He wants to \u2018discuss\u2019 it! He\u2019ll agree, don\u2019t worry. Leave the kid where he is, and come on back to town. We have plenty to do. We need more men just for starters.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think you\u2019ll just leave the kid where he is,\u201d Roy said, stepping into view.<\/p>\n

Recoiling, Collins inadvertently stepped in front of Weber, who took immediate advantage of it. He dived back into the shack, and exited through the back window. \u201cShoot him!\u201d Clem shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, don\u2019t!\u201d Ben contradicted. \u201cHe knows where Joe is!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t get your son alive!\u201d Collins shouted. He drew a gun from the waistband of his pants and fired at the posse. At once, a couple of men fired back, and Collins crumpled to the ground.<\/p>\n

Horrified, Ben stood frozen for an instant, until Hoss nudged him. \u201cCome on, Pa,\u201d he urged. \u201cThat other fella must know where Little Joe is! Let\u2019s follow him!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, you\u2019re right,\u201d Ben said, rousing from his reverie. Roy was kneeling by Collins and shaking his head. Ben knew that his rival was dead. He didn\u2019t feel even a single pang of remorse. There wasn\u2019t time. Weber was running flat out away from them, and Ben\u2019s concern was with Joe, not the dead man.<\/p>\n

They were gaining on him rapidly, spurred on by their anxiety, when Weber ducked into an old mine shaft opening. Ben panted out some garbled instruction to Hoss, but he could barely understand what he\u2019d said himself, far less expect Hoss to follow it. And anyway, his son knew the gist of it \u2013 be careful.<\/p>\n

Inside the mine, the sound of running footsteps roused Joe from a momentary doze. He listened, terrified that his mind had conjured the sound, but still they came. There was no way to tell if it was friend or foe, but Joe chose to gamble anyway. \u201cHere!\u201d he yelled. \u201cI\u2019m here! Help me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShut up, kid!\u201d snarled a voice and Joe flinched away from the sound. He felt hands unbuckle the collar round his neck, and then the man fumbled with the shackles at his feet. Joe tensed himself to make a bid for freedom.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere, Pa!\u201d Joe yelled, as loudly as he could. \u201cI\u2019m here!\u201d He gasped as Weber backhanded him viciously across the face.<\/p>\n

As Ben and Hoss came into the tunnel, guided by the tiny, flickering light Weber had lit, the fugitive grabbed Joe and dragged the helpless youth in front of him as a shield. He drew his gun and pointed it at Joe\u2019s head. Ben and Hoss skidded to a wary stop.<\/p>\n

\u201cBack off,\u201d Weber warned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you going to go?\u201d Ben asked, in what he hoped was the voice of calm reason. He certainly didn\u2019t feel calm and reasonable, seeing his youngest son in such a predicament. He wanted to throw himself on Weber and tear Joe from the man\u2019s grasp. But he forced himself to stand calm and still, ready for any move the man might make.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care, I\u2019m just going to get out of here,\u201d Weber snarled. He started to rise, then realized that he hadn\u2019t managed to free Joe\u2019s feet, and the youth was still shackled to the wall. Straightening, he beckoned to Hoss. \u201cPut your gun down and come and unlock his feet. Don\u2019t try anything.\u201d He cocked the gun and placed it hard against Joe\u2019s head. Ben saw Joe swallow.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right, Joe,\u201d Hoss said, as he carefully did as he was told. He knelt by Joe\u2019s feet and began to intentionally fumble with the chains. \u201cWe\u2019ll get you out of here, Joe. Collins is dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Weber gasped. His grip tightened slightly. \u201cYou\u2019re lying.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNope,\u201d Hoss said, still fumbling and peering as though he was having difficulty seeing what he was doing. \u201cSeen him layin\u2019 there dead myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not true,\u201d insisted Weber.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss doesn\u2019t lie,\u201d Joe said, suddenly. They all glanced at him, slightly startled. He sounded completely calm. Ben decided it was probably some kind of shock setting in. It took all the self-control he could muster just to stand there and watch.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe posse\u2019s waitin\u2019 for us outside right now,\u201d Hoss asserted in a confident tone. \u201cI\u2019m afraid Collins done left you to carry all the guilt.\u201d He actually sounded quite sorrowful.<\/p>\n

That was apparently the last straw for Weber. He suddenly leapt to his feet, firing wildly. The Cartwrights all ducked, although it would probably be fairer to say that Joe fell. Hoss threw himself on top of his younger brother, determined to keep him safe. Joe let out a shout of anguish. But neither Ben nor Hoss was looking at him, for Weber turned the gun on himself and pulled the trigger.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cJoe, are you all right?\u201d Ben asked, snatching his son into a warm embrace, while Hoss finished releasing the evil chains that had held him prisoner for so long. Gently, he eased the blindfold off.<\/p>\n

After so long in the dark, Joe\u2019s eyes protested to even the small amount of light there was in the tunnel. However, after several minutes, he was able to stand it better, and Ben helped him to his feet. Joe was weak, but refused to be carried from the mine as though he was totally helpless. With Ben on one side and Hoss on the other, he shuffled slowly across the uneven surface, welcoming the pain of returning circulation.<\/p>\n

Outside, they met up with the posse, who had heard the shooting and come running. After greeting Joe joyfully, Roy looked at Ben. \u201cWeber?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Inclining his head, Ben said,\u201d Back there. It was suicide.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was no need to say more. Clem looked at Roy, who nodded, and he disappeared into the mine. After a very short time, he re-appeared, looking rather green. He didn\u2019t say anything to Roy, but the look on his face said it for him.<\/p>\n

Meantime, Joe had been resting, leaning against Ben, who couldn\u2019t keep from touching his youngest boy. Joe was filthy and pale, but looked wonderful to Ben\u2019s anxious eyes. He could see various indications that Joe wasn\u2019t in perfect health, but he had expected that. He was just grateful to have him back in one piece.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Joe murmured. He had his eyes shut against the brightness of the light. \u201cHow\u2019s\u2026?\u201d He was unable to go on, but Ben knew exactly what he wanted to ask.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s going to be all right,\u201d he said. \u201cAdam is still ill, but he\u2019ll make it, Joe, don\u2019t worry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Despite the pain he suffered, Joe opened his eyes to look deeply into his father\u2019s eyes. He knew Ben wouldn\u2019t lie to him about this, but he just needed to make eye contact. The dampness in Ben\u2019s eyes triggered a corresponding dampness in Joe\u2019s and he hastily shut them, but not before one tear escaped and tracked its way down his dirty cheek. \u201cI thought\u2026\u201d he said softly, but didn\u2019t need to go on. Ben knew only too well what Joe had thought. He hugged his son close.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, let\u2019s get Joe home,\u201d he said, feeling Joe shiver in the chill wind. Hoss came over to help, but once again Joe insisted on walking, and they supported him to where they had left the horses. Not knowing what kind of condition they would find Joe in, Ben had opted not to bring another horse, and so he boosted Joe onto the front of his own saddle, so he could have the reassurance of Joe\u2019s physical presence as they rode home.<\/p>\n

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

By the time they arrived back at the ranch, Joe\u2019s seriously diminished stamina had run out entirely, and his legs refused to support him. He was pale under the dirt caked over every inch of him and looked totally exhausted. Ben slid down form Buck\u2019s back, and eased Joe down, and then he and Hoss carried him to the house between them. The posse was sending Doc Martin out from the town.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll take him straight up to bed,\u201d Ben panted, for although Joe wasn\u2019t heavy, carrying him like that was awkward.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna see Adam first,\u201d Joe protested in a thin voice. \u201cPlease, Pa. I gotta see him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Ben capitulated, totally understanding Joe\u2019s need to see Adam. And he knew that Adam felt the same way, and it would be several days, at best, before either young man was fit enough to get up and walk about the house.<\/p>\n

The oldest Cartwright son was slumbering when his bedroom door opened to admit the rest of his family, and he stirred reluctantly to peer blearily at the intruders. However, any disgruntlement disappeared when he saw who was doing the disturbing. \u201cJoe!\u201d he exclaimed, and made an unwise move to sit up.<\/p>\n

Ben all but dropped Joe as he put his hand out to stop Adam from rising, but the rush of dizziness that Adam experienced as he lifted his head reminded him that he was in no fit state to do much moving, and he lay back own at once. Joe said nothing, but the smile on his face left none of them in any doubts about his feelings. The last time Joe had seen Adam, he was bleeding copiously and deeply unconscious. His blood had dried into the clothes Joe was still wearing.<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, bed now,\u201d Ben said, and they took Joe to his own room.<\/p>\n

Because of his son\u2019s weakened state, Ben gently helped him strip off the filthy clothes, only belatedly realizing the blood on the jacket wasn\u2019t Joe\u2019s. Apart from the blood on his face, Joe\u2019s injuries seemed to be mostly restricted to bruises, but then, as he helped Joe off with his shirt, he saw the huge red welt between his shoulders. \u201cWhat\u2019s this, son?\u201d he asked, resisting the temptation to touch it.<\/p>\n

\u201cI got hit by a rifle,\u201d Joe said. \u201cWhen I was kidnapped. I made a break for freedom, and nearly got away. But I got hit by the rifle, and when I woke up I was face down over a horse.\u201d He tenderly felt his stomach, which was certainly well bruised.<\/p>\n

At that juncture, Hoss arrived with the tin bathtub, and after a few trips up and down stairs, the bath was filled with warm water, and Joe was able to soak the grime off. Ben helped him rinse the soap from his hair, and dry off. Hoss was just removing the bathtub when Paul Martin appeared.<\/p>\n

After a thorough examination, Paul straightened. \u201cNo major damage this time,\u201d he said. \u201cHis eyes might be sensitive for a while, but there\u2019s nothing wrong with them. That welt on his back is slightly infected, but nothing too bad. I\u2019ll clean it up, and put a dressing on it. Apart from that, the rope burns, cracked ribs and that grazed face are the big problems.\u201d<\/p>\n

Frowning, Ben said, \u201cBut the graze on his face isn\u2019t serious is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it is when you\u2019re as vain as Joe,\u201d Paul said, with a straight face, and both Ben and Joe had to laugh, even though Joe clutched his ribs as he did so.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t long after that that Joe was bandaged and settled off to sleep with the aid of some painkillers. Paul took the opportunity to look in on Adam, and was pleased to see that his fever had gone at last. \u201cYou\u2019ll be fine in a few weeks, Adam,\u201d he said. \u201cJust don\u2019t rush back to work. Help keep Joe occupied.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rolling his eyes, Adam said, \u201cI\u2019d rather go back to work, thanks!\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Later, after Paul had gone, and Hoss was in bed, Ben put out the lamps and went upstairs. He looked in first on Adam. He looked a lot better, with his face resuming its normal healthy color. Ben couldn\u2019t help but check for fever once more, although it had gone. Adam didn\u2019t stir under his touch. \u201cGod bless,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

In the next room, Hoss was sound asleep on his back, snoring away gently. Ben tucked the blankets round his shoulders, for the night was cool. Hoss was oblivious to the presence of his parent and slept on. Once more, Ben whispered, \u201cGod bless.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lastly, he checked on Joe. He was sprawled all over the bed, as was his habit, and although he was still pale, and seemed thin, Ben knew that he had come to no serious hurt this time. Joe murmured something and Ben crossed to check him for fever. As he touched Joe, the youth\u2019s eyes flew open, and Joe said, \u201cPa?\u201d in a confused tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cShh, Joe, go back to sleep,\u201d Ben soothed. \u201cI was just making sure you were all right.\u201d He straightened the bedclothes and sat down on the edge of the bed. Joe took his hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs Collins dead?\u201d he asked, which was not what Ben had expected him to say at all.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he is,\u201d Ben answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen the land is safe?\u201d Joe went on, and Ben could see where he was headed now.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, the land is safe, and you are all safe, too,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Comforted, Joe closed his eyes briefly. \u201cWhat about the men who work at the mines?\u201d he asked. \u201cWill they lose their jobs?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben said, stroking Joe\u2019s head. \u201cBut I\u2019m sure someone will buy the mines, and the men should be all right. Don\u2019t worry about them now, Joe. Just rest and get better.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d Joe said. \u201cAt first, I thought Adam was dead, but you know, Pa, after a while, I became convinced he wasn\u2019t. And I knew you\u2019d come looking for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlways, son,\u201d Ben said, hoarsely. \u201cI\u2019ll always come looking for you when you need me.\u201d<\/p>\n

He drew Joe into an embrace, and they sat there for a long time, until finally the younger man slipped into a deep, restful sleep. Laying Joe carefully down, Ben looked at him. \u201cAlways, Joe,\u201d he repeated.<\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Summary:\u00a0 A ruthless mining baron takes on the might of the Ponderosa, prepared to do whatever it takes to get what he wants – including murdering the sons of Ben Cartwright.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 \u00a0(9,030 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":9517,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_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":""},"categories":[23,41],"tags":[14,15,16],"class_list":["post-5044","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2757,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/brothers.jpg?fit=399%2C299&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":7619,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7619","url_meta":{"origin":5044,"position":0},"title":"Big Ears, Big Fears (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Little Joe listens and learns. 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Rated:\u00a0K+\u00a0\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0887","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":14286,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14286","url_meta":{"origin":5044,"position":2},"title":"Ben’s Boy Adam (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 10, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0This is a collection of four vignettes written to various prompts. 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I hope she and others enjoy this story. Rating: \u00a0T \u00a0(4,000 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\/04\/Begin1.jpg?fit=428%2C446&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":49274,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=49274","url_meta":{"origin":5044,"position":5},"title":"Little Joe’s Island (by LindaBl)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"May 22, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Synopsis:\u00a0Little Joe has another crazy dream. All the Cartwrights and Hop Sing are aboard the Dixie I when it is shipwrecked. [It is a comedy parody which combines Bonanza and Gilligan's Island]. 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