{"id":62644,"date":"2014-05-15T10:57:47","date_gmt":"2014-05-15T14:57:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=62644"},"modified":"2026-03-17T10:24:21","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T14:24:21","slug":"breathing-free-by-joans","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=62644","title":{"rendered":"Breathing Free (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: A Ponderosa ranch hand is convicted of murder, and all four Cartwrights must deal with their emotions regarding the situation.
\n<\/span>Rated:<\/span> PG (9,650 words)<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Breathing Free<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2018Guilty!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the words reverberated around the silent courtroom a buzz of noise immediately followed them and the judge banged his gavel on the table in front of him for silence before looking directly at the prisoner standing in front of him and speaking in a clear voice.\u00a0 \u2018William Murfitt \u2026 you have been found guilty of the murder of Sam O\u2019Brien and I sentence you to be hanged by the neck until dead.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at Sheriff Roy Coffee.\u00a0 \u2018Sheriff \u2026 remove the prisoner from the court please.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sheriff Coffee stepped forward and pulled William by the arm. \u2018Come along son,\u2019 he said. \u2018Let\u2019s get this over with.\u2019\u00a0 He led him through the now silent crowd towards the back door of the court.\u00a0 As they passed the four Cartwrights who were sitting in the front room William hesitated for a moment, looking each of them in the eye before continuing.\u00a0 As the door of the courthouse closed behind the two men the room exploded in a barrage of noise again and Ben Cartwright sat down heavily on his chair and put shook his head in dismay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 said Adam quietly, putting his hand on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u2018We should get out of here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood up again and nodded at his eldest son. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hoss?\u00a0 Joe?\u00a0 Come on boys.\u00a0 There\u2019s nothing more we can do here for now.\u00a0 We need to get on back to the ranch.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stared at his father, his face a picture of anger and dismay. \u2018I just can\u2019t understand it Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018How could they have found him guilty?\u2019\u00a0 He shook his head. \u2018It ain\u2019t like he \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put up his hand. \u2018Hoss there\u2019ll be time for this at home,\u2019 he said. \u2018Let\u2019s get going son.\u2019\u00a0 He pulled the big man by the arm and Hoss put his head down and followed his father reluctantly. Ben hesitated as he reached the door and looked back over his shoulder. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said. \u2018Are you coming son?\u2019 Joe continued to stare at the floor in front of him and didn\u2019t move. \u2018Joe?\u2019 said his father again. When the boy still didn\u2019t move Ben walked back to him and placed his hand on his youngest son\u2019s shoulder. \u2018We have to go now Joe,\u2019 he said quietly. \u2018Come on.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up and stared into his father\u2019s eyes intently for a moment before giving him a small nod.\u00a0 Ben put his arm around the young man and led him quietly from the courtroom.\u00a0 As they left the room the judge stood up and began to collect his papers.<\/p>\n

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++++++++++<\/p>\n

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\u2018I don\u2019t care what that judge said!\u2019 declared Hoss. \u2018William ain\u2019t guilty \u2026 I\u2019d stake my life on it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed again. \u2018Hoss you heard all the evidence,\u2019 he said. \u2018Everything pointed to the fact that he was.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t care!\u2019 declared Hoss again. \u2018He ain\u2019t guilty and that\u2019s an end to it!\u00a0 There were no eye witnesses after all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The evidence all pointed to William,\u2019 explained Adam patiently. \u2018And it is an end to it because he\u2019s been convicted.\u00a0 The jury studied all the evidence and made their decision based on it.\u00a0 That\u2019s the way justice works in this country.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Justice!\u2019 declared Hoss with a snort. \u2018Some kind of justice!\u00a0 He ain\u2019t guilty I tell ya!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at his father sadly and shook his head. \u2018Hoss, your brother is right,\u2019 said Ben quietly. \u2018None of us like what happened today son, but the law has been upheld.\u00a0 The judge had no choice but to pronounce the sentence that he did.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss scowled. \u2018I just don\u2019t understand how you can both sit there and not care about this!\u2019 he said angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked hurt. \u2018You have no right to say that Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018Of course we care!\u00a0 Pa and I are just as fond of William as you.\u00a0 But that doesn\u2019t alter the fact that a decision has been made.\u00a0 You just have to make the best of it now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gave his brother an appalled look. \u2018The best of it!\u2019 he said. \u2018Try telling William that.\u00a0 Try going in there to that jail and telling a man with only a few days ta live ta make the best of it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I intend to,\u2019 said Adam quietly. \u2018I\u2019m going in to visit him tomorrow if you must know.\u2019\u00a0 He stood up from the table and threw down his napkin. \u2018He\u2019s a friend of mine in case you\u2019ve forgotten brother and this isn\u2019t easy on me either.\u2019\u00a0 He strode from the room and banged the front door behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at this father. \u2018I didn\u2019t mean \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 His voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put his hand on top of that of his son\u2019s. \u2018I know Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018Your brother understands I\u2019m sure.\u00a0 This has upset everyone and there\u2019s no getting around that.\u2019\u00a0 He hesitated. \u2018Why don\u2019t you go on out there and talk to your brother about it and patch things up?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018Sure Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as his middle son also left the room and then his eyes drifted to Joe who had sat quietly during the entire conversation with his head bowed. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 he said. \u2018Are you all right son?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe continued to stare at the tablecloth and nodded his head. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave him a sad look. \u2018I know how you are feeling son,\u2019 he said. \u2018We all feel for William at the moment.\u2019\u00a0 There was no response from the youngster so Ben tried again. \u2018Would you like to go in and see him tomorrow with Adam?\u2019 he asked gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father for the first time with tears standing in his eyes.\u00a0 He shook his head firmly. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018I mean \u2026 not yet Pa.\u00a0 I \u2026 will.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted the young man\u2019s hand. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018When you\u2019re ready to son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018When will \u2026 I mean \u2026 how long will it be before \u2026 before\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019ll probably take close to a week for the \u2026 for arrangements to be made,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded and there was silence for a few moments. \u2018I think I\u2019ll go on up to bed now Pa,\u2019 he said as he stood up from the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good night son,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Night Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as Joe walked slowly towards the staircase with his head still bowed.\u00a0 He sighed as he watched the young man walk up the staircase and disappear around the corner and then put his head in his hands as he remembered back to the day when he\u2019d first met William Murfitt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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++++++++++<\/p>\n

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It had Adam who\u2019d brought the young man home that first day. Ben often thought about how all three of his boys seemed to have inherited his own tendency for looking after strays. Not that it was probably something that could be inherited, but they\u2019d sure seen him do it enough in his life and he supposed that they\u2019d learnt by example.\u00a0 It was something that he was proud that they\u2019d picked up from him.\u00a0 After all, there was no greater way of showing your love for your fellow man than by putting the values he lived by into action.\u00a0 All three of his boys had at one time or another tried to help someone in need and Ben was rightly proud of them for doing so.\u00a0 This time it was Adam who started the ball rolling of course, but the others had soon picked up on it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019d liked William right from the start.\u00a0 Adam told him how he\u2019d found the young man in town and how it had struck him right from the start how lost he\u2019d seemed.\u00a0 He\u2019d have expected Hoss or even Joe to have offered the man a job of course, but at the time it had struck him as rather strange that Adam had done so.\u00a0 After all, William had absolutely no experience at ranching and even though he was bound to help the man, Adam usually kept hold of the fact that The Ponderosa was a working ranch and everyone needed to pull their own weight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019d looked almost embarrassed as he\u2019d introduced his father to William that day.\u00a0 As if he knew what was in the man\u2019s mind, he hastened to assure his father that William would pick up things quickly. Ben had looked at him with an amused expression.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I thought you just met him,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam avoided looking at his father and studied the cinch on his saddle intently. \u2018I did,\u2019 he said. \u2018He just strikes me as the sort of guy who\u2019ll be a hard worker that\u2019s all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tried not to smile. \u2018I see,\u2019 he said. \u2018Well I hope you\u2019re right son.\u00a0 You\u2019d better show him where the bunkhouse is then, don\u2019t you think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shot his father a grateful look and then slid down from the saddle. \u2018I reckon so,\u2019 he said. Ben watched in amusement as the two men walked towards the bunkhouse together.\u00a0 William seemed like a likeable young man and he was sure that he would work out all right in him time on The Ponderosa.\u00a0 After all, Adam wasn\u2019t often wrong and Ben was fully prepared to take a risk on the young man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William had proven right from the start that he was indeed willing to learn and was definitely a hard worker.\u00a0 He quickly became a part of the place and what he lacked in skill made up for in sheer hard work.\u00a0 All three of Ben\u2019s sons soon became fond of him and there were many times when he was part of their activities.\u00a0 He and Adam seemed to get on particularly well \u2026 probably because there wasn\u2019t a great deal of difference in their ages.\u00a0 Hoss of course got on well with everyone and he and William soon found a friendship that they both valued.\u00a0 Even Joe looked up to the man and listened to his advice \u2026 unusual in itself \u2026 although it didn\u2019t stop the youngster from trying out his usual tricks on the unsuspecting hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In time William Murfitt had become a valued member of The Ponderosa staff, which made today\u2019s events all the more harder to comprehend.\u00a0 Ben just couldn\u2019t for the life of him believe that William was a murderer \u2026 the young man just didn\u2019t seem to have it in him. It had been less than a week ago that Roy Coffee had come to the ranch and arrested him for murder.\u00a0 At first Ben had been quite confident that with the right legal help the whole mess would be sorted out and he had made sure that that had been available for the young man, but as the days of the trial had passed it seemed that the evidence against William was just too overpowering to be ignored.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben didn\u2019t blame the jury for making the decision that they had for he could see the justification for them doing so, but knowing William as he did he just couldn\u2019t believe that the young man had done it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head.\u00a0 Wherever the truth lay, one thing was for certain.\u00a0 The young man that they\u2019d all come to know so well was sitting in jail right at this moment with the knowledge that he was under sentence of death and had just a few days to live. All the Cartwrights would have to come to terms with that fact in their own way and that was all there was to it.<\/p>\n

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Hoss searched the darkness beyond the front porch, trying in vain to see the outline of his brother in his dark clothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Looking for me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned sharply as he heard the words behind him and smiled to see Adam sitting on the other end of the porch staring out into the darkness.\u00a0 He walked slowly to him and sat down next to him. \u2018I came ta say I\u2019m sorry,\u2019 he said after a moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded as he continued to stare. \u2018I thought you might,\u2019 he said simply. \u2018So am I.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two brothers sat in silence together for a long time, neither of them feeling the need for words. It was Hoss who finally broke the silence. \u2018It\u2019s just so hard Adam,\u2019 he said sadly. \u2018William \u2026. well like I said I just can\u2019t believe that he\u2019s guilty.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded again. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018But its over and done with now Hoss.\u00a0 Whether we like it or not he\u2019s been found guilty and its up to the law to carry out the sentence.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss put his face in his hands. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018I wonder how he\u2019s taking it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up at the stars. \u2018How do you think?\u2019 he said. \u2018How would you be?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded and there was silence again. \u2018Joe\u2019s upset too,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018He thought a lot of William ya know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 replied Adam. He gave his brother a sideways glance. \u2018Do you realise that we\u2019re talking about him as if he\u2019s already past tense?\u2019 he said sadly. \u2018It\u2019s as if he\u2019s already dead.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wish he were!\u2019 said Hoss fiercely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked startled. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018Surely you don\u2019t mean that Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018Yep I do,\u2019 he said. \u2018Think about it Adam.\u00a0 Think what this next week is gonna be like fer him in there \u2026 knowing he\u2019s gonna die \u2026 hang \u2026. If it were me I\u2019d rather have it over with, wouldn\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018Much and all as it would be so hard \u2026 no.\u00a0 There are things in a man\u2019s life that need to be said when he knows he\u2019s going to die Hoss.\u00a0 Things that need to be done before he can make his peace with the world.\u2019\u00a0 He looked up at the stars again. \u2018No \u2026 I\u2019d want to have the time to do and say those things if it were me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I spose so,\u2019 admitted Hoss. \u2018I didn\u2019t think about that I guess.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s why I\u2019m going in to see him tomorrow,\u2019 explained Adam. \u2018To see what I can do to help him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss put his hand on his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018That gonna be a hard thing to do,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u2018He\u2019s my friend,\u2019 he said simply.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Hi Roy,\u2019 said Adam as he entered the Sheriff\u2019s Office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy Coffee looked up. \u2018Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018I suppose you\u2019ve come ta see William?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u2018How is he?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy shrugged. \u2018About how you\u2019d expect him ta be,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t enjoy watching a man prepare ta die.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tried not to make his thoughts clear on his face. \u2018When will it be Roy?\u2019 he asked. \u2018How long will it take?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Four days,\u2019 replied the sheriff. \u2018I got the wire from the hangman earlier today. \u2018They started building the gallows early this morning as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018I saw it on the way in,\u2019 he said and gave the sheriff a sad smile. \u2018All right if I go in now Roy?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

You\u2019ll haveta leave that pistol out here,\u2019 instructed the lawman and watched as Adam put it on his desk. \u2018Take ya time son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took a deep breath as he entered the room and closed his eyes momentarily. \u2018Hi,\u2019 he said to the man in the cell in as casual voice as he could muster.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William looked up and Adam could see that he\u2019d been crying, although he tried to hide the fact by wiping his eyes quickly on his shirtsleeve. \u2018I thought you might come,\u2019 he said simply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded as he pulled up a stool and sat down on the other side of the bars. \u2018How are you doing?\u2019 he asked, although he already knew the answer to his question.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William shrugged his shoulders and said nothing.\u00a0 The two young men sat in silence and listened to the sound of hammering outside. \u2018Do they have to do that there?\u2019 said William suddenly. \u2018It\u2019s bad enough without having them \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 His words trailed away and he put his head in his hands. \u2018Oh God Adam,\u2019 he whispered. \u2018I don\u2019t know how I\u2019m going to be able to do this! I can\u2019t \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He began to sob and Adam bit his lip and looked at his friend with tears in his own eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He put his hand through the bars and placed it on the young man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Do you want \u2026 I mean \u2026 how about I go get the Reverend for you?\u2019 he suggested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William shook his head. \u2018He\u2019s already been.\u00a0 Started to talk about life after death and all that which I suppose is his job, but \u2026\u2019 he looked up at Adam. \u2018It\u2019s not what I need to hear you know?\u2019\u00a0 Adam waited in silence. \u2018I keep thinking about \u2026. Well you know Adam \u2026 what it\u2019s gonna be like to \u2026 hang.\u2019\u00a0 He whispered the word so softly that Adam had to strain to hear it. \u2018I just don\u2019t \u2026. I mean I don\u2019t know if I can do it Adam. Just the thought of what it might be like make me turn to water inside and I can\u2019t \u2026 \u2018 He put his head in his hands again. \u2018Oh God!\u2019 he said. \u2018I can\u2019t do this!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam fought back his own tears as he listened to his friend. \u2018I don\u2019t know what to say to you William,\u2019 he said at last. \u2018I don\u2019t know how to help you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William shook his head \u2018There\u2019s nothing you can say,\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s nothing anyone can do now.\u00a0 When a man is going to die he has to face it alone I guess.\u2019\u00a0 He stared out of the small window where the sounds of the hammering were still drifting through. \u2018Dying is a lonely thing Adam. A mighty lonely thing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat and watched his friend, trying to come to grips with what he was saying, but feeling totally helpless.\u00a0 William looked at him again and tried to smile. \u2018Do you mind if I ask you to go now?\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s not that I don\u2019t appreciate you coming Adam, its just that it\u2019s a strain to keep \u2026 well you know.\u00a0 I\u2019d rather be alone if you don\u2019t mind.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood up. \u2018I understand,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll come back tomorrow if you want me to?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded. \u2018Thanks,\u2019 he said shortly and turned away.\u00a0 Adam could see that his shoulders were shaking as he tried to still his sobbing and he turned abruptly away and left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Finished so soon?\u2019 asked Roy Coffee as the young man came into the outer office and picked up his gun.\u00a0 Adam nodded.\u00a0 Roy noticed how upset he looked. \u2018It ain\u2019t an easy thing,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ve seen many a man have ta deal with death and it ain\u2019t an easy thing.\u2019\u00a0 He shook his head sadly. \u2018You comin back?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Tomorrow,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t know that I\u2019m doing much good for him though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy stood up and put his hand on the young man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018I reckon ya are,\u2019 he said. \u2018More than ya know.\u00a0 It ain\u2019t an easy thing ta deal with death Adam, but it sure ain\u2019t easy ta watch someone do it neither.\u00a0 Take a lot of guts ta stand by a friend when he\u2019s going through it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded again. \u2018Thanks Roy,\u2019 he said sadly. \u2018I\u2019ll see you tomorrow.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy watched as Adam left the room and then sat down again with a sigh. \u2018Ain\u2019t an easy thing,\u2019 he muttered to himself and shook his head.<\/p>\n

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Ben watched his eldest son as he chased his food around his plate in silence. \u2018Adam?\u00a0 Are you all right son?\u2019\u00a0 Adam nodded and continued to stare at the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve been thinking bout William.\u00a0 Couldn\u2019t we \u2026 I mean couldn\u2019t you send a wire to the Governor and ask for his sentence to be \u2026 what\u2019s it called?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his head up and stared at his brother. \u2018Revoked,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah .. that\u2019s it revoked.\u2019\u00a0 Hoss looked at his father hopefully. \u2018Could ya Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018Hoss I\u2019ve already thought of that, but the problem is that I just don\u2019t think it would work.\u00a0 There would have to be a very good reason for the Governor to over rule a judge\u2019s sentence and to be honest I just don\u2019t think that there is in this case.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah but Pa,\u2019 said Hoss pleadingly. \u2018It\u2019s worth a try don\u2019t ya think?\u00a0 It\u2019d make things easier fer William maybe if he knew there was a bit of hope.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. \u2018It doesn\u2019t feel right to get the boy\u2019s hopes up and then dash them again if it doesn\u2019t work,\u2019 he said. He thought for a moment. \u2018Of course it\u2019s worth a try I suppose, but I think it might be best if we don\u2019t tell him for now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t agree Pa,\u2019 interrupted Adam. Ben gave him a puzzled look. \u2018You didn\u2019t see him in there today,\u2019 his son continued. \u2018He was … well I just think that whatever hope we can give him would help that\u2019s all.\u00a0 Even if it doesn\u2019t work then at least he\u2019d have something to cling to for a while, don\u2019t you think?\u2019\u00a0 He gave his father a pleading look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben reached over and put his hand on top of his son\u2019s.\u00a0 He could see the despair and frustration in the dark eyes that stared back at him and he wanted more than anything to put some hope in them instead. \u2018All right,\u2019 he said. \u2018How about you and I go in tomorrow and tell him then?\u00a0 I\u2019ll send the wire first thing in the morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and gave his father a brief smile. \u2018Thanks Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll think it\u2019ll really help him \u2026 at least I hope so.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben returned the smile and then glanced over at Joe who was listening to their conversation in silence. \u2018Joe?\u00a0 Are you all right son?\u2019\u00a0 Joe nodded and put a forkful of food into his mouth. \u2018You\u2019re awfully quiet Joe.\u00a0 Are you sure you\u2019re all right?\u2019 Ben persisted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m fine Pa,\u2019 replied his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How long do ya think the Governor will take ta answer your wire Pa?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben dragged his eyes away from Joe. \u2018Probably a day or two,\u2019 he said. \u2018It will depend on his schedule, of course.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss frowned. \u2018I hope it makes it in time,\u2019 he murmured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It will have to,\u2019 muttered Adam as he picked up his fork again and began to fiddle with it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You mean it?\u2019\u00a0 Adam saw hope in his friend\u2019s eyes for the first time since his sentence had been pronounced and he nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I sent the wire before we came up here.\u00a0 Now all we have to do is for the Governor\u2019s reply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William began to pace up and down in the cell. \u2018The Governor thinks a lot of you Mr Cartwright,\u2019 he mused. \u2018I\u2019ve heard people talk.\u00a0 This just might work, don\u2019t ya think?\u2019\u00a0 He stopped and looked at the two Cartwrights hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tried to smile at the young man. \u2018I hope so,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019ll see.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William hesitated. \u2018You folks have been real good to me,\u2019 he said. \u2018I wonder if \u2026 well could you ask a favour?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course,\u2019 said Ben kindly. \u2018Anything at all \u2026 you just name it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William went pale. \u2018I\u2019ve been doing a lot of thinking in here,\u2019 he said. \u2018And when \u2026 I mean, if it happens \u2026 then there are some things I need to get organised. You know what I mean.\u2019\u00a0 He put his hand into his pocket and drew out some papers.\u00a0 \u2018Sheriff Coffee let me do some writing last night,\u2019 he said. \u2018Mr Cartwright could you please make sure that this gets to my sister in Pennsylvania?\u00a0 If \u2026 I mean \u2026 after \u2026\u2019\u00a0 his voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took the letter from him. \u2018Of course I will,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And then there\u2019s my stuff,\u2019 William\u2019s voice faltered for a moment. \u2018My horse and \u2026 well \u2026 everything.\u00a0 It isn\u2019t much but I\u2019d like \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018William don\u2019t,\u2019 interrupted Adam.\u00a0 \u2018You don\u2019t need to do this yet.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I want to,\u2019 his friend replied. \u2018I\u2019ve made a list of it all here.\u2019\u00a0 He thrust it through the bars at Adam. \u2018Would you please see that it all goes to the right people Adam?\u00a0 I mean afterwards, of course.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took the paper and nodded silently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave the young man in the cell a small smile. \u2018Anything else we can do for you?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William looked deep into his eyes. \u2018I was wondering,\u2019 he said. \u2018Most people seem to be staying away from me.\u00a0 I don\u2019t blame them mind \u2026 they probably don\u2019t know what to say to me and they probably don\u2019t want to look at me now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure that\u2019s not true,\u2019 interrupted Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William gave him a slight smile. \u2018Oh, it\u2019d be true all right,\u2019 he said. \u2018They all believe that I\u2019m guilty you see.\u00a0 After all, that\u2019s what the jury said wasn\u2019t it?\u00a0 I don\u2019t blame them .. it\u2019s just that I\u2019d like the chance to … well, see some of them.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at Ben beseechingly. \u2018Are Hoss and Joe coming in to see me before \u2026. well, just before?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced at Adam. \u2018I\u2019ll ask them,\u2019 he said. \u2018They\u2019re both upset through all of this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded. \u2018I can understand that,\u2019 he said. \u2018But ask them \u2026 please Mr Cartwright?\u00a0 I\u2019d like to say goodbye if I can.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam felt his heart constrict and stopped himself just in time from groaning out loud. \u2018We\u2019ll tell them William,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m sure they\u2019ll come.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave his son a sharp look, but said nothing. \u2018I\u2019d better be going now,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll let you two to talk for a while.\u00a0 I\u2019ll let you know the minute there\u2019s a reply to my wire William.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William gave the man another small smile. \u2018Thank you sir,\u2019 he said gratefully. \u2018I\u2019ll be right here waiting.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll come in with ya tomorrow,\u2019 said Hoss immediately when Adam suggested that evening at supper that they visit William.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at Joe expectantly. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said. \u2018William would sure like to see you.\u00a0 How about it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as his youngest son paled and tried his hardest to look casual. \u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 he said. \u2018I really have to finish with that batch of horses tomorrow.\u00a0 Maybe later on.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned. \u2018Later on?\u2019 he said. \u2018William may not have a later on<\/em> you know! That\u2019s a stupid thing to say!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam!\u2019 said Ben sternly. \u2018Joseph will make up his own mind whether or not he visits William.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I meant in a few days,\u2019 said Joe in a low voice. \u2018I\u2019m not stupid you know older brother.\u00a0 I know he ain\u2019t got much time left.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018That ain\u2019t necessarily true,\u2019 he said confidently. \u2018That telegram from the Governor should come soon and then he\u2019ll likely be free.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss don\u2019t be stupid,\u2019 said Adam crossly. \u2018Of course he won\u2019t be free!\u00a0 At the best he\u2019ll have to spend years in prison.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A frown crossed Hoss\u2019 face momentarily and then he shook his head. \u2018Mebbe,\u2019 he said. \u2018But he sure won\u2019t hang.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018Hoss, don\u2019t get your hopes up,\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s not much of a chance of that, as I\u2019ve said before son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged. \u2018I got hope,\u2019 he said. \u2018I ain\u2019t gonna think any other way Pa.\u00a0 He\u2019s innocent so stands ta reason that he\u2019ll be okay.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his father a frustrated look. \u2018Oh come on Hoss!\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t be stupid.\u00a0 As if \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam, that is enough!\u2019 said his father sharply. \u2018That\u2019s the third time this evening you\u2019ve called one of your brothers stupid.\u00a0 Please refrain from saying it again.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam set his jaw and gave his father a stubborn look. \u2018Well, I\u2019m sorry,\u2019 he said. \u2018Excuse me if I just try to talk some reason into this family.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That will do!\u2019 said Ben crossly. \u2018Isn\u2019t it enough that we all need to come to terms with this without bickering amongst ourselves?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam threw his napkin on the table and stood up. \u2018Excuse me,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m going to my room.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well shortshanks?\u2019 asked Hoss as Adam left the room. \u2018Are ya coming with me tomorrow?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up. \u2018Will you stop going on about it?\u2019 he said crossly. \u2018I already told you I\u2019m busy! Can\u2019t you get that through your head?\u2019\u00a0 He also stood up and stormed away from the table in a huff.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What did I say?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s just upset about all this,\u2019 explained his father. \u2018I\u2019ll talk to him.\u2019 Ben looked after his son with a worried expression.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t like Joe to be so quiet about things.\u00a0 Normally when something was troubling the boy he let everyone know about it and made his feelings plain, but this time he was bottling it all up inside and that worried his father more than anything. He sighed.\u00a0 Adam was acting out of character as well.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t like him to be so short tempered with everyone either. Hoss was the only one who seemed to be himself through all of this and even his even-tempered middle son was showing the strain at times.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As for himself, Ben was more upset then he would have ever imagined he could be.\u00a0 He kept thinking about if it was one of his own sons in that jail cell and what he would be going through if one of them were facing death in a few days and the thought of it scared him witless.\u00a0 He was very fond of William and saw in the young man a reflection of one of his boys in the same situation.\u00a0 He wondered just how he would be living with himself if this were to happen to one of his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Much and all as he wanted William to have as much time as possible, a part of him wished that the whole thing were over and done with.\u00a0 Only then would they all be able to pick up their lives again and go on.\u00a0 But a nagging thought kept at him from deep down.\u00a0 William wouldn\u2019t have the opportunity to go on with his life and there was no getting around that fact.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William looked up at the sound of someone entering the room. \u2018Hi,\u2019 he said as Hoss sat down on the stool on the other side of the bars. \u2018Thanks for coming Hoss.\u2019\u00a0 He looked over the large man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Did Joe come with you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head \u2018Nah,\u2019 he said. \u2018He said he might come later on.\u2019\u00a0 He looked a bit shamefaced. \u2018He\u2019s a mite upset.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded. \u2018That\u2019s to be expected,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m glad you came though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss leant forward. \u2018Did Pa tell ya he sent that wire off?\u2019 he said. \u2018Should be a message from the Governor any time now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll help, said Hoss. \u2018He\u2019s got to.\u2019\u00a0 William nodded. \u2018It\u2019ll be okay,\u2019 Hoss assured him. \u2018I know it will.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And if it isn\u2019t?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked confused. \u2018What do ya mean?\u00a0 Of course it\u2019ll be okay.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William shook his head as the hammering sounded outside again. \u2018It may not be,\u2019 he said quietly. \u2018Face it Hoss, I might only have a couple more days to live.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss frowned and pounded his fist into the wall beside him. \u2018Now don\u2019t ya say that!\u2019 he said. \u2018I ain\u2019t gonna let that happen!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William gave him a bittersweet smile. \u2018You\u2019re not going to have much say in it Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019ve got to face the fact that in a couple of days they could take me out of here and \u2026 hang me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018They can\u2019t do it William.\u00a0 Not ta someone who\u2019s innocent like you are.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William studied the large man for a moment. \u2018You\u2019re a good friend Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I\u2019m afraid you faith in me just isn\u2019t going to be enough.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But we all know you\u2019re innocent!\u2019 declared Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It isn\u2019t enough,\u2019 replied William sadly. \u2018It just isn\u2019t enough.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018William ya just can\u2019t die!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Ya just can\u2019t!\u2019\u00a0 The man put his face in his hands and his shoulders heaved. \u2018I won\u2019t let ya!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A few minutes later when Adam entered the room, he thought about how strange it was that William should be comforting Hoss and not the other way around.\u00a0 For as long as he\u2019d known that young big brother of his, Hoss\u2019 caring nature had ensured that he\u2019d been the one to give comfort to others and there was a lot of tenderness in the large man.\u00a0 Adam supposed that was what was causing his brother\u2019s heart to be breaking now. Sheriff Coffee had sure been right when he\u2019d said that it was hard to stand by and watch someone die and Hoss must be feeling much as Adam was right now. Frustrated and angry with the fact that there was nothing that they could do for William. No wonder his brother\u2019s heart was hurting so badly. He knew how he felt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his hand on Hoss\u2019 shoulder and smiled at William. \u2018I\u2019ve just been checking at the telegraph office,\u2019 he said and shook his head at their questioning looks. \u2018Nothing yet,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018There will be,\u2019 replied Hoss, wiping his eyes. \u2018I know it.\u2019 Adam and William exchanged looks. \u2018He\u2019ll save ya William,\u2019 continued Hoss. \u2018I just know that he will.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William tried to smile at him. \u2018I gave Adam a list of my things yesterday,\u2019 he said. \u2018I want you to have my saddle Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018Don\u2019t say that!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018You\u2019re gonna need it yaself William.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William stood up and walked to the other side of the cell and looked up to the small patch of blue that showed through the tiny window. \u2018I hope so,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018I\u2019d like just once more to feel the sun on my face as I take a ride.\u00a0 Being in here \u2026\u2019\u00a0 he turned to face the two Cartwrights. \u2018It\u2019s so \u2026 well I can\u2019t breathe properly at times you know?\u2019\u00a0 He turned back to look at the sky again. \u2018I\u2019d just like to be able to breathe free again just once you know?\u2019\u00a0 He hung his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya will,\u2019 Hoss assured him. \u2018I\u2019m going down ta check again for that wire.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat down as Hoss left the room. \u2018He\u2019s taking it hard,\u2019 he said simply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded. \u2018I could see that,\u2019 he said. \u2018Joe too?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018I\u2019ll try and get him here tomorrow to see you,\u2019 he said. There was silence for a few moments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I meant what I said.\u00a0 About breathing free again.\u2019\u00a0 William looked at his friend hopefully. \u2018You and I both know that the wire from the Governor probably won\u2019t be favourable even though Hoss won\u2019t admit it.\u00a0 I don\u2019t have any other chance \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stared at his friend. \u2018What are you saying?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William leant forward and grabbed hold of the bars firmly. \u2018Please Adam?\u2019 he pleaded. \u2018I can\u2019t \u2026 You\u2019re my only hope.\u00a0 Won\u2019t you help me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018William, you know I can\u2019t!\u2019\u00a0 Adam stood up and paced up and down the small area. \u2018You can\u2019t ask me to help you get out of here.\u00a0 I can\u2019t!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam I can\u2019t stand the thought of being hung!\u2019 William stared at his friend pleadingly. \u2018All I\u2019m asking is that you think about it.\u00a0 It\u2019d be easy.\u00a0 Sheriff Coffee trusts you.\u00a0 You\u2019d only have to \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William closed his eyes for a moment. \u2018Please \u2026\u2019 he whispered. \u2018Please just say that you\u2019ll think about it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stared at his friend for a moment and then turned and left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned sharply to see his father standing behind him. \u2018Oh, hi Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I didn\u2019t see you there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Are you all right son?\u2019\u00a0 Ben came and stood next to his son by the corral fence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head and stared up into the night sky. \u2018I was just thinking about William, Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Imagining how it must feel to know that you\u2019re going to hang in a couple of days.\u00a0 I don\u2019t know how \u2026.\u2019 His voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put his hand on the young man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ve known many men who\u2019ve known they\u2019re going to die Adam and it\u2019s never easy to know what to say to them or how to act.\u2019\u00a0 He tightened his grip on the youngster\u2019s shoulder. \u2018It\u2019s taken a lot of courage for you to go in there watch him day by day and be with him,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m proud of you for doing it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hung his head. \u2018Don\u2019t be too proud of me,\u2019 he said. He was grateful that his father couldn\u2019t tell what he\u2019d been contemplating today.\u00a0 The thought of helping William wouldn\u2019t leave him and he kept mulling it over in his head.\u00a0 After all, what could they do to him for helping someone to escape from prison?\u00a0 A few months in jail perhaps at the worst \u2026 whereas William \u2026 William could gain his life.\u00a0 He looked at his father. \u2018Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Could I ask you something?\u2019\u00a0 Ben nodded. \u2018How do you know \u2026 I mean \u2026 if someone really needs your help and you really want to help them\u2026 how do you know whether or not to do it, even though in the eyes of other people it might be the wrong thing to do?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes narrowed and he thought for a moment. \u2018I suppose you just have to look into your heart to know what to do,\u2019 he said. \u2018A man has to be guided by his own conscience in all things.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and rested his chin on the top rung of the corral fence. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018I suppose so.\u2019\u00a0 He straightened up again. \u2018I need to go and talk to Joe.\u00a0 William wants him to come and see him and time\u2019s running out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Son, leave your brother to me,\u2019 said his father. \u2018He\u2019s upset about all of this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know that.\u00a0 But William needs to talk to him before \u2026 well, just before.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll talk to him,\u2019 said Ben as he turned away.\u00a0 If the truth be known, he\u2019d been wanting to talk to his youngest son for the past few days, but had hoped that the boy would come to first. Joe had always been the sort of youngster who\u2019d needed to talk his problems through and this was the first time that Ben could remember when he hadn\u2019t come to his father to do just that.\u00a0 He\u2019d wanted to give him time to do so, but as Adam hinted \u2026 time was running out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he entered his youngest son\u2019s bedroom, he found him lying on his bed staring at the ceiling. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked over at his father \u2018Hi Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat down on the edge of the bed. \u2018I was just talking to Adam,\u2019 he began. \u2018He says that William has asked to see you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe went back to staring at the ceiling. \u2018So he said yesterday,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018I heard him then.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Are you going in to see him?\u2019\u00a0 Joe didn\u2019t answer. \u2018Son, there isn\u2019t much time left,\u2019 continued his father. \u2018If you\u2019re going to see him then you\u2019ll have to \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why do I have to see?\u2019 him?\u2019 interrupted Joe.\u00a0 \u2018I don\u2019t see why it\u2019s so important!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018He wants to see you,\u2019 he explained. \u2018I think you might be sorry later if you don\u2019t go in.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned at the ceiling. \u2018I don\u2019t see why,\u2019 he muttered. \u2018He\u2019s more Adam and Hoss\u2019 friend than mine after all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s very fond of you too,\u2019 said Ben patiently. \u2018And I thought that you were close to him as well.\u2019\u00a0 Joe continued to stare at the ceiling and say nothing. \u2018Son?\u2019 asked his father. \u2018What is it? What\u2019s bothering you so much?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing.\u00a0 I just don\u2019t see why everyone goes on about it all the time,\u2019 said Joe angrily. \u2018He\u2019s going to hang and that\u2019s all there is to it!\u00a0 Me going in there isn\u2019t going to change that fact \u2026 I wish he\u2019d just hang and get it over with!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You don\u2019t mean that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father. \u2018Yes I do,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s going to hang, so why don\u2019t they just get it over with?\u00a0 Why all this waiting around?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You know why.\u00a0 They have to wait for the gallows to be built and for the \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t!\u2019\u00a0 Joe put his arms over his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben reached out to touch his son. \u2018Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s alright to be scared about all of this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I can\u2019t go and see him Pa,\u2019 said Joe with a sob. \u2018I just can\u2019t!\u2019\u00a0 He took his arm away and Ben saw the tears that were standing in the boy\u2019s eyes. \u2018I\u2019ve never \u2026 I mean I\u2019ve seen people dead before Pa.\u00a0 I\u2019ve even shot a couple of men you know that.\u00a0 But \u2026 but \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But you\u2019ve never known anyone who knows in advance that they\u2019re going to die,\u2019 finished his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat up. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t know what to say to him Pa.\u00a0 I don\u2019t know that I can face him \u2026. Knowing that \u2026 he\u2019s going to die.\u00a0 I can\u2019t!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I understand that son,\u2019 replied Ben gently. \u2018But don\u2019t you think that its more important to think about William at this time than yourself?\u2019\u00a0 Joe stared at his father and didn\u2019t say anything. \u2018How would you feel if you were William?\u2019 asked his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Scared,\u2019 replied Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes scared. And if it were you, wouldn\u2019t you want your family and friends around you?\u2019\u00a0 Joe nodded slowly as if in thought. \u2018William doesn\u2019t have any family,\u2019 continued Ben. \u2018And we\u2019re just about the best friends that he has.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at the boy to see if he understood. \u2018Son, William will understand if you can\u2019t face him at the moment,\u2019 he went on. \u2018But you need to think about how you\u2019ll feel in the future.\u00a0 After the hanging, I mean.\u00a0 I don\u2019t want you to always regret not going in.\u00a0 All I ask is that you think about it Joe.\u00a0 If your decision is not to see him then I\u2019ll explain your reason to him.\u2019\u00a0 Joe nodded. \u2018I know it\u2019s hard son,\u2019 said Ben and he stood up. \u2018You just have to make the best decision for yourself, that\u2019s all I\u2019m saying.\u2019\u00a0 He bent over and stroked the back of the youngster\u2019s neck. \u2018Night son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Night Pa,\u2019 said Joe as he lay down again and stared at the ceiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated before entering the small room. William looked up and smiled at him before standing and walking over to the bars. \u2018Mr Cartwright,\u2019 he said eagerly. \u2018Any news?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded slowly. \u2018I\u2019m sorry son,\u2019 he said after a moment. \u2018But the answer is no.\u00a0 I received the Governor\u2019s wire about an hour ago.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded and sat down shakily. \u2018That\u2019s it then,\u2019 he said. He put his face in his hands and was silent. After a few moments he spoke again. \u2018Thank you for trying at least,\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m so sorry,\u2019 said Ben, feeling so helpless and thinking how hollow his words sounded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You did your best.\u2019\u00a0 There was silence again. \u2018The Sheriff says it\u2019s going to be at dawn tomorrow,\u2019 William said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u2019\u00a0 There was silence again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I told Adam that I wanted to breathe free again just one more time,\u2019 William said softly. Ben didn\u2019t know what to say, but knew that at times like this it was more of a help just to listen. \u2018Guess it won\u2019t be happening though,\u2019 William continued.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Is there anything I can do for you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam and Hoss will be in this afternoon.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t know.\u00a0 He\u2019s scared William.\u00a0 He doesn\u2019t mean anything by it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know.\u2019\u00a0 William gave a crooked smile. \u2018He\u2019s young \u2026 he can\u2019t help feeling that way. I know how he feels.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two men sat in silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018William?\u2019\u00a0 The condemned man looked up to see Adam standing in front of him.\u00a0 He stood up and walked over to him quickly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam!\u2019 he said. \u2018I was hoping you\u2019d come without Hoss.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at his friend pleadingly. \u2018Have you thought about \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He looked over to the doorway. \u2018About what we talked about?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded slowly. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat down. \u2018I can\u2019t William.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry but I can\u2019t.\u2019\u00a0 He looked up at his friend, willing him to understand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William slumped and sat down on his narrow buck. \u2018You were my last hope Adam,\u2019 he said in a bitter voice. \u2018Why?\u00a0 Why can\u2019t you do it?\u00a0 I thought we were friends.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u2018We are,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I just can\u2019t do it.\u00a0 Please understand.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William stared at him. \u2018Understand?\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m going to die in a few hours Adam.\u00a0 Did you hear what I said?\u00a0 I\u2019m going to hang!\u2019\u00a0 He looked at his friend bitterly. \u2018And you ask me to understand?\u00a0 No \u2026 I don\u2019t understand.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I have to do what I think is the right thing,\u2019 explained Adam. \u2018I have to follow my conscience.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018You follow your conscience Adam.\u00a0 You tell yourself that it\u2019s all right to watch a friend hang.\u00a0 That it\u2019ll be all right as long as your conscience tells you so.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018William I \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Save it!\u2019 interrupted the young man bitterly. \u2018I don\u2019t want to hear it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At that moment Hoss entered the room. \u2018William,\u2019 he said. \u2018Pa told us bout the Governor\u2019s wire.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Did he?\u2019 said William bitterly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head \u2018It ain\u2019t right,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And what are you going to do about it then?\u2019 asked William. \u2018Are you willing to get me out of here?\u00a0 Or are you afraid like your brother there?\u2019\u00a0 He gave Adam a scathing look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked confused. \u2018Get ya out of here?\u2019 he asked. \u2018If there was a way William then I\u2019d do it.\u00a0 You know that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William advanced towards him. \u2018There is a way Hoss,\u2019 he said urgently. \u2018You could break me out of here if you really wanted to.\u2019\u00a0 He gave the man a pleading look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced over at Adam who stared back at him. \u2018I \u2026 it wouldn\u2019t be right,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William banged his hands in frustration against the bars. \u2018You Cartwrights!\u2019 he yelled. \u2018What is wrong with you people!\u00a0 You pretend to be all concerned about me, but when I really need you \u2026. You just won\u2019t help!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018William,\u2019 said Hoss pleadingly. \u2018Ya know I\u2019d help ya if I could.\u00a0 I\u2019d do anything \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Would you?\u2019 William turned on the man. \u2018Anything except help me in the way I need it most?\u00a0 What kind of friend are you then?\u00a0 What use to me are you Hoss?\u00a0 What use are any of you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked as if he\u2019d been struck. \u2018William\u2026\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 It ain\u2019t that I don\u2019t believe you\u2019re innocent and all .. it\u2019s just\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Innocent!\u2019\u00a0 William turned on him again. \u2018What\u2019s being innocent got to do with it?\u00a0 I\u2019m asking for your help!\u00a0 I want to breathe free again Hoss!\u00a0 I want to know that I\u2019m going to live!\u00a0 For God\u2019s sake help me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at Adam in despair. Adam stood up and shook his head. \u2018You\u2019re not being fair by asking,\u2019 he said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not fair!\u2019\u00a0 William turned on him as well. \u2018Fair?\u00a0 What\u2019s fair got to do with it?\u00a0 I\u2019m pleading for my life Adam.\u00a0 My life \u2026 don\u2019t you understand that?\u00a0 In a few hours I am going to hang!\u00a0 Do you understand how that feels?\u00a0 Do you understand how it feels to know that \u2026\u2019 his hands went to his neck and he stroked it slowly. \u2018To know that my breath is going to be \u2026 that I\u2019ll never breath free again?\u2019\u00a0 He began to sob. \u2018You have no idea do you?\u00a0 Why don\u2019t you just both go away and leave me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stepped forward. \u2018William \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Go away,\u2019 said the man bitterly. \u2018I don\u2019t need you both here.\u00a0 You won\u2019t help me and I don\u2019t need you here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes you do,\u2019 said Adam quietly. \u2018No matter what you say, you do need us William.\u00a0 Every man who is facing death needs someone and like it or not we\u2019re staying.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced at Hoss. \u2018At least I am.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded at his brother. \u2018So am I,\u2019 he said firmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William looked at the two men in front of him, tears streaming down his face.\u00a0 He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at the young man riding beside him in silence. \u2018You\u2019re sure you want to do this Joe?\u2019 he asked again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said quietly. \u2018But I\u2019ve got to. I\u2019ve been thinking bout what you said Pa and you\u2019re right,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t want to do this, but I know that I have to.\u00a0 William needs friends around him at the moment and that\u2019s what is the most important thing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted the young man on the leg. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he agreed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As they rounded the Main Street the first thing they both noticed was the large gallows that had been set up outside the jail.\u00a0 Joe hesitated for a moment when he first laid eyes on it, but Ben patted him on the shoulder and he nodded at his father before kicking his horse forward again.\u00a0 As they dismounted outside the jail Ben noticed the small crowd that was gathering outside and shook his head.\u00a0 No matter what time of day or night, there would always be people who were drawn to something like this for their own personal needs.\u00a0 He never could come to terms with why anyone could want to witness a hanging.\u00a0 The times he\u2019d done so were times that he wished he could erase from his memory and he\u2019d never do so willingly again if he had a choice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He put his arm around his son\u2019s shoulder as they mounted the stairs and entered the jail. \u2018Hello Roy,\u2019 he said. \u2018All right if we see William?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy glanced at the clock. \u2018Sure,\u2019 he said. \u2018But you ain\u2019t got much time Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Adam and Hoss still in there?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yep,\u2019 answered the Sheriff. He glanced at Little Joe. \u2018You sure you wanna go in there boy?\u2019 he asked. \u2018It ain\u2019t an easy thing ta do.\u2019\u00a0 Joe nodded at him and entered the inner room to see William sitting on his bunk while Hoss and Adam stood quietly outside the cell.\u00a0 He gave his brothers a quick look and then took a deep breath before walking over towards the bars.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018William?\u2019 he said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William looked up. \u2018Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m glad you came.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018I wanted to come before,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 His voice faltered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 replied William. \u2018You don\u2019t have to say it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wanted to see you before \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 There was silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William stood up and walked over to the young man. \u2018I wanted to see you too,\u2019 he said. \u2018I wanted to thank you for being my friend Joe.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at all the Cartwrights. \u2018For all of you,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m sorry \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stepped forward. \u2018There\u2019s nothing for you to be sorry about,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes there is Mr Cartwright,\u2019 replied William as he looked at first Adam and then Hoss. \u2018I\u2019ve not been fair during these past few days and I know it.\u00a0 I \u2026 asked things of your sons that I had no right to ask and I\u2019m sorry for it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled at his friend. \u2018Its all right William,\u2019 he said. \u2018We understand.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Hoss, trying to smile through his tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William hesitated. \u2018I just want to say thank you to all of you for helping me through this,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t know what I would have done \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 His voice faltered and he hung his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stepped forward and put his hand through the bars and placed it on the young man\u2019s shoulder. \u2018There\u2019s no need to thank us son,\u2019 he said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William looked deep into the man\u2019s eyes. \u2018I just wanted you all to know \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy Coffee entered the room. \u2018It\u2019s time,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019ll need to say your goodbyes now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe caught his breath and looked at William anxiously. \u2018No!\u2019 he said. \u2018It can\u2019t happen!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put his hand on his youngest son\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Joe \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook it off. \u2018No!\u2019 he said again. \u2018It ain\u2019t right! William ain\u2019t guilty just like Hoss says and it ain\u2019t right!\u2019\u00a0 He looked around at each member of his family. \u2018We gotta help him!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder again. \u2018Son \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No Pa!\u2019\u00a0 Joe looked into his father\u2019s eyes desperately. \u2018It ain\u2019t right Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy stepped forward. \u2018Ben \u2026.\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ve got a job to do.\u00a0 Calm the boy down or get him out of here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took Joe by the shoulders and tried to push him to one side. \u2018Joseph,\u2019 he said gently. \u2018Sheriff Coffee has to \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019\u00a0 Joe drew his gun and pointed it at the sheriff. \u2018You ain\u2019t taking him!\u00a0 He\u2019s innocent and he can\u2019t hang!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019\u00a0 Ben stepped forward and Joe looked at him. \u2018Put the gun down son.\u00a0 You\u2019re not helping anyone like this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe began to breathe heavily. \u2018No!\u2019 he said and Ben could tell from the sound of his voice that he wasn\u2019t ready to listen to reason. Joe looked at the keys in the sheriff\u2019s hands. \u2018Open the door Sheriff,\u2019 he said. \u2018Let him outta there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy gave Ben a shocked look. \u2018Ben\u2026\u2019 he said. \u2018You gotta get through to the youngster.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019\u00a0 Joe stared at his father again. \u2018You don\u2019t understand Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018William \u2026. He can\u2019t \u2026. They can\u2019t hang him for nothing Pa!\u00a0 Please understand\u2026\u2019\u00a0 He looked at his father pleadingly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe!\u2019\u00a0 William called to the young man from the cell. \u2018Listen to your father.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned to face William. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Listen to your father Joe,\u2019 said William urgently. \u2018He\u2019s right.\u00a0 You can\u2019t do this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked confused. \u2018But William \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You can\u2019t save me Joe, so there\u2019s no point trying,\u2019 said the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But they\u2019re gonna hang you,\u2019 Joe said lamely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said William. \u2018They\u2019re going to hang me \u2026 and you need to stay out of it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t you understand?\u2019 asked William with a despairing look in his eye. \u2018I deserve to die.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t say that,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018You don\u2019t \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I do,\u2019 replied the young man bitterly. \u2018I do deserve to die.\u00a0 I\u2019m guilty.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss drew in his breath sharply. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m guilty,\u2019 repeated William. \u2018I did it.\u00a0 Don\u2019t you understand?\u00a0 I do deserve to die.\u2019 He turned to Joe again. \u2018Don\u2019t do this Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Listen to your father and put down your gun.\u00a0 I\u2019m not worth all this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe slowly lowered his gun and his father stepped forward and took it from him. Roy Coffee moved forward and spoke quietly to Ben, \u2018We\u2019ll say no more about this,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just keep that youngster out of my way while I do my job Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and held onto Joe by the shoulders as Roy opened the cell and handcuffed William.\u00a0 As he was led out of the cell, William stopped next to them and spoke. \u2018Thank you Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Thank you for being my friend until the end.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked deep into the man\u2019s eyes and nodded silently, the tears running freely down his cheeks.\u00a0 William smiled at Ben and nodded his head slightly before turning to Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m sorry for letting you down Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018I know that you believed in my innocence and I\u2019m sorry.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded and put his hand on the other man\u2019s shoulder. William smiled at him and walked out of the room.\u00a0 Adam exchanged one long look at his father and followed, closing the door behind him.\u00a0 The three remaining Cartwrights stood in silence together, their ears straining for any noises outside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Roy Coffee led William outside, the small crowd parted around the gallows.\u00a0 William looked around and noticed the Reverend standing next to the structure and he gave him a twisted smile. \u2018Come to say some last prayers for me?\u2019 he said bitterly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy Coffee pulled William forward and he stepped towards the gallows slowly.\u00a0 Adam came to stand beside him.\u00a0 \u2018You don\u2019t have to stay,\u2019 said William in a low voice. \u2018Go back inside with your family.\u2019\u00a0 He winced as he caught sight of the undertaker\u2019s wagon nearby.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked deep into his friend\u2019s eyes. \u2018I\u2019m staying,\u2019 he said, trying not to let his voice quaver. \u2018You\u2019re my friend and I\u2019m staying.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William closed his eyes momentarily and swallowed. \u2018Thank you,\u2019 he whispered. \u2018Thank you for \u2026.\u2019\u00a0\u00a0 His voice gave way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his hand on his friend\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Thank you for what you did in there,\u2019 he said. \u2018My little brother was about to make the biggest mistake of his life and without you \u2026 well \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He shrugged his shoulders, not knowing how to finish the sentence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

William nodded at him. \u2018That\u2019s what friends are for,\u2019 he said simply and gave Adam a long lingering look. \u2018Goodbye friend,\u2019 he said and then allowed himself to be led forward and up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched as the noose was placed around his friend\u2019s neck.\u00a0 He watched as his hands were tied behind his back and the hood placed over his head.\u00a0 He watched as the hangman checked that all was in order and he watched as his friend fell down through the trapdoor and continued to swing backwards and forwards as the life was crushed out of him.\u00a0 He watched as the hangman and the undertaker cut his body down and placed it in the waiting wagon.\u00a0 He watched as the wagon rolled away slowly and the crowd dispersed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Goodbye friend,\u2019 he whispered in a broken voice as he turned away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

++++++++++<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up as Adam entered the room, one arm around Joe\u2019s shoulders as his youngest son wept quietly and another holding onto Hoss\u2019 arm as he stared out of the window in silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well?\u2019 Ben said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s breathing free again,\u2019 said Adam simply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/h1>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: A Ponderosa ranch hand is convicted of murder, and all four Cartwrights must deal with their emotions regarding the situation.
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