Summary:\u00a0 <\/b>\u00a0Adam returns home but finds problems.
\nRating:\u00a0 PG\u00a0 (30,725 words)<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The Brandsters acknowledge that the authors are the owners of their stories.\u00a0 Should an author included in this project reach out to us and indicate they do not wish their work to be archived in the Bonanza Brand Fanfiction Library, we will remove their stories.\u00a0 We would also be happy to change contact information for any authors who wish to continue to have their stories archived in the Library.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n The Cartwright Saga Series:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n The Lawyer <\/a><\/span> \n Homecoming<\/strong><\/p>\n Adam was first off the ship as it landed in New York. He had been very pleasantly surprised to find that the Captain and crew were the same as those he had met on the way to Europe although the name of the ship was different. Even more surprising they all seemed to remember him and he was quickly involved with the crew, checking out the engine and the navigation and on the Captain\u2019s table every night for dinner. The ship made good time and his friends made it easy for him, arranging the delivery of his luggage to a hotel in the centre and allowing him to get off first.<\/p>\n Adam was surprised just how emotional he felt as he landed back on American soil. He had already decided that he would take a week in New York it was a long time since he had spent time there, back in his college days. On the way to Europe he had felt ill and depressed and didn\u2019t care. He had deliberately avoided letting his family know that he was coming home so that he could take what time he needed. He had no idea how long it would take to make the arrangements that were required at Harvard to complete his qualification in law.<\/p>\n The first night he just collapsed into bed, more tired than he expected but he was up bright and early the next morning. He had a certain amount of shopping to do; some of the clothes he had worn in Cambridge didn\u2019t seem suitable for travel to Nevada. He found it more difficult than he had expected to find the black jeans and shirts that his family would expect when he got home. He had no intention of allowing his brothers any material to tease him when he first arrived because of his clothing.<\/p>\n He was just about to take his purchases back to the hotel late in the afternoon when he spotted an advertising poster for a performance of Hamlet that evening starring his old college friend Edwin Booth. Adam had no intention of disturbing Edwin before the performance, although if he hadn\u2019t been able to get a seat he had intended meeting his friend afterwards. In fact he was lucky and got a single seat in the stalls about halfway back. He had time to grab a meal and then settle in to watch the performance. He had seen the play several times before and even seen Edwin perform in it at least once before, but he was pleased to see his old friend on top form.<\/p>\n Adam waited until the final interval and then had a short note taken to Edwin by one of the theatre staff. He wasn\u2019t surprised when an answer reached him just after the final curtain and he was escorted back to the star\u2019s dressing room. Edwin was delighted to see his old friend, whom he had last seen in Paris just over a year ago. Edwin complained that Adam hadn\u2019t let him know earlier and he could have arranged a better seat but Adam laughed at him. Edwin hated being disturbed in the run up to a performance and Adam knew him too well to risk his ire and anyway the seat had been fine. Adam grinned broadly \u201cI enjoyed listening to the comments about your performance\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI hope it was favourable,\u201d Edwin said grumpily but Adam just raised a teasing eyebrow and refused to elaborate.<\/p>\n Edwin knew him too well to try and force an answer out of him and instead yelled for his manager Jim Forrester\u00a0\u00a0\u201cYou\u2019ll at least join us for a late supper?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam smiled \u201cI would have been very disappointed if you hadn\u2019t asked.\u201d he turned to shake hands with Jim, another very old friend and grinned broadly, as Jim considered him carefully, before pronouncing that he looked one hell of a lot better than in Paris.<\/p>\n Adam was feeling fitter than he had for a very long time and very content, as he knew it was only weeks before he would be back home with the family he loved on his beloved Ponderosa.<\/p>\n The three men had a pleasant supper and soon drifted back into their usual easy comradeship. Adam and Edwin were soon embroiled in a long running argument over Hamlet. Adam had his own ideas on how Edwin ought to play the role and still insisted that it would be more effective if his friend underplayed the role, although compared to many, Edwin gave an intense but less theatrical performance. It was very late before they called it a night and Adam only got away then by agreeing to join the pair on Edwin\u2019s day off on the Monday.<\/p>\n Adam had spent his time in New York revisiting some of the places he had known as a student, when he had spent a summer working in New York as his grandfather\u2019s agent. To say nothing of renewing his friendship with Edwin, but after ten days he pulled himself away and booked a ticket for Boston.<\/p>\n The train journey was one he had done many times, but he was very relieved to find that even when he was tired it didn\u2019t react on his back, and he arrived back in Boston well pleased with life. His grandfather had died some four years earlier so he had no real base in Boston and booked in at the Parker House hotel. It wasn\u2019t cheap but Adam knew he had a good chance of meeting some old friends including Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. It was an immense hotel with all manner of white marble, public passages and public rooms. Adam had a corner room, high up but with a hot and cold bath in his bedroom. Adam had had dinner there several times while he was at Harvard, attending a reading by Longfellow on one occasion.<\/p>\n Adam was hoping that Oliver would be able to help him with the professors of law at Harvard. His old friend was the editor of the prestigious Harvard law review. Adam had a clear idea of what he wanted to do but he wasn\u2019t sure if it would be acceptable to the University. He needed to get it sorted out before he headed home.<\/p>\n Adam was in luck, Oliver was eating supper in the hotel the first evening when he came down and seeing Adam yelled across the room \u201cHey Boy, you are a sight for sore eyes, come join me.\u201d<\/p>\n It had been more than eight years since Adam had seen Oliver although they had always kept in contact by letter. The two men shook hands and then Adam sat down and they chatted about anything and everything. Somehow they managed to find a moment to eat and drink but it was nearly three in the morning when the waiters disapproving looks finally got through to them and they got to their feet. Once Oliver had checked that Adam was staying at the hotel for the next couple of weeks, they arranged to meet the following afternoon and headed for bed.<\/p>\n Oliver was sure that Adam didn\u2019t even need his help to make arrangements but even so Oliver invited Adam to join him at church on Sunday. There he was able to introduce Adam to Professor Lyman Wilson of the law department and to the acting president of Harvard, the preacher Andrew Peabody.<\/p>\n Adam was surprised that the Reverend Peabody remembered him from his time at Harvard but it did make it easier. He barely had to say a thing as Oliver made a great story of his friend taking Cambridge by storm. Adam shook his head at the hyperbole and grinned \u201cOliver always did exaggerate.\u201d<\/p>\n Professor Wilson remembered the approach Adam had made eighteen months earlier. \u201cAre you coming back here to complete your degree?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf I can arrange it,\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh I don\u2019t think that it will be a major problem. I am busy for the next couple of days but if you can come and see me on Wednesday morning?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOf course Sir. Thank you.\u201d Adam smiled.<\/p>\n The Reverend Peabody smiled \u201cGood Lyman, Mr Cartwright will be a very useful addition to our student body.\u201d<\/p>\n Oliver was about to comment on that but Adam decided it was safer to quit while he was ahead and grabbed his friend\u2019s arm and walked away. He might not be in the same condition as he was before the fall that damaged his back, but his muscles were still far too much for the sedentary Holmes; his arm was leaving, so he had to go too.<\/p>\n For the next couple of days Adam relaxed and enjoyed the company of a number of his old college friends who had settled in Boston. He was welcomed for supper by his old roommate, now married and settled with two young children. Adam enjoyed the evening and he looked forward to seeing more of the family when he came back to Boston but he couldn\u2019t help the pang of jealousy. If things had worked out, he would have been married and with Peggy have had a ready-made family. He knew that that dream would have turned into a nightmare if Laura hadn\u2019t fallen for Will but he still wanted the family. He ended up going for a long walk through the dark streets that he knew well, too restless to sleep and for almost the first time he allowed himself to think of home. The longing to go for a ride across the open spaces of the land he loved was so real he could almost taste it.<\/p>\n On the Wednesday morning Adam went over to see the Professor and found that he was facing three of the professors of the law school. They were very keen on establishing the academic route for law rather than apprenticeship which was still used by far too many. Tying their college to the ancient foundation of Cambridge had its attraction for them but they were determined to keep the academic rigour that they had been fighting to establish. Adam found himself cross questioned closely over the work he had done at Cambridge and then Professor Wilson commented \u201cOur students have also covered a certain amount of specific American case law.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf there is any work that I need to do to catch up I am, of course, very willing.\u201d<\/p>\n The three men considered each other and then Professor Wilson came round and offered his hand \u201cWe are confident that you will do just that, so if you would like to come through to my office we can arrange the details.\u201d Adam smiled and accepted with pleasure.<\/p>\n In fact the final arrangements he was able to make delighted Adam. They wanted three assignments from him but he would be able to buy the necessary books and complete those at home and send them in over the next months. Then provided he was back in Boston at the end of October he should be able to complete the course of study by the following March. It would mean another Christmas away from his family but at least he could be at the ranch to help during the busy summer months.<\/p>\n He took two more days to collect all the material he might need to complete the assignments and even borrowed a few articles from Oliver and then booked his ticket for the final stretch home.<\/p>\n At the ranch the family had more or less got used to Adam\u2019s absence. Joe had found it very hard on his birthday. He had been to town virtually every day for the fortnight before but there was nothing from Adam and despite all the others could do Joe was sombre all day. He tried to enjoy the party that Ben held for him and he danced and plastered on a smile but it didn\u2019t really reach his eyes. His eldest brother had forgotten his birthday, maybe he no longer cared, and for the first time in a while Joe faced the thought that Adam would never return.\u00a0\u00a0He had barely slept that night and Ben was little better off, he didn\u2019t need any explanation of Joe\u2019s mood.\u00a0\u00a0Joe cheered up when a parcel arrived about four days later. Adam had sent it in plenty of time but a longshoreman\u2019s strike in New York had left it sitting on the dock for more than five weeks.<\/p>\n The only other time that Joe was as depressed was Christmas Eve, Ben found his son sitting in Adam\u2019s room fingering his brother\u2019s guitar. He went over to join his son on Adam\u2019s bed \u201cMissing him Son?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe always played and sung carols on Christmas Eve, just doesn\u2019t feel like Christmas without him. This is the second year he\u2019s been gone and even if he does come back it may be another three years, he won\u2019t even know me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think your brother will ever forget you Joe how ever long he has been away.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt was hard when he came back before, took us a long time to get back on terms.\u201d Joe looked up and sighed \u201cI know it was mainly my fault I made it hard on him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThis is different Joe, last time Adam left a young child and came back to a boy who thought he was full grown, even if he wasn\u2019t. This time he left a man and will come back to find that same man just a little more mature.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe found himself smiling at that \u201cOnly a little more Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben snorted remembering his youngest son\u2019s escapades recently, including trying to breed rabbits, and added \u201cSometimes I doubt even that!\u201d<\/p>\n Joe relaxed at the expression on his Pa\u2019s face and giggled \u201cMaybe old Yankee granite face won\u2019t see so much change.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe will be home Joe, one of these days.\u201d Ben watched his son go downstairs and he went over to the window to stare out at the view that his eldest son had always loved. He prayed that the land would call Adam home, the land and the family that he was still sure meant a lot to his eldest son.<\/p>\n As the weather eased up Ben began making plans for an early drive to the fort at Reno. He was going to entrust this drive to Joe as trail boss, Joe\u2019s first and he was delighted at the way his youngest son was taking responsibility for all aspects of the drive. Hoss was busy setting up the lumber camp with a large contract from the railroad for a trestle.<\/p>\n Most of the work was going reasonable smoothly until Joe found two hands, Temple and Sand, drinking instead of doing their job. He fired them but the men, considerably older than he was, wouldn\u2019t accept it. Joe was decidedly getting the worst of things when Dan Tolliver came over and with his gun out, ran the pair off.<\/p>\n Dan had been on the Ponderosa almost from the beginning teaching Ben some of the skills he needed in the early days, but now in his mid sixties he was slowing down. Joe was very grateful for the rescue but he was worried about Dan. He had found the old man asleep on his horse when he was on night herd. Joe\u2019s concerns seemed justified when Dan had problems throwing a steer for trail branding. Another hand came to help but Dan wouldn\u2019t accept it and pushed him out of the way. Unfortunately the man caught Hoss who was holding the branding iron. The hot iron caught Hoss arm and Joe rushed over to his brother. Luckily it was only a minor burn but it made up Joe\u2019s mind. Dan was sure that the accident was caused by the interference and not his fault, but Joe felt differently.<\/p>\n Later that day Joe had to talk to his father, he wasn\u2019t about to risk Dan on the trail, scared that next time the accident might be more serious and either Dan or someone else would be killed. Ben was horrified at Joe\u2019s suggestion that Dan remained behind. He could remember years earlier being so grateful for the older man\u2019s advice but his son did have a point and he had put Joe in charge. He ruefully considered his own position; it was more than ten years since he had acted as his own trail boss, handing over to his sons, first Adam, then Hoss and now Joe. He had done so partly for their own development but at least partly because he was getting older, that little bit slower to react, and he knew how dangerous that could be on a drive. Dan had always been a wrangler working with the stock and Ben had accepted that over the years, even though he expected his own sons to do all the jobs round the ranch.<\/p>\n Joe tried to make his father see that he didn\u2019t want Dan to leave, he had known the wrangler all his life, and he just wanted him to settle to a job he could do. Ben gave in but he turned down Joe\u2019s offer to tell the old man, he owed Dan too much and would tell him personally.<\/p>\n Ben\u2019s worst fears were realised as Dan took the news very badly and insisted on leaving, he wouldn\u2019t even accept a bonus just his wages. Joe tried to tell the old man that it had been his decision but Dan just glared at him \u201cYou had no right to judge me, no right at all.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe tried to apologise to his father and reassure him that Dan would come round but Ben wasn\u2019t at all sure, he knew just how stubborn Dan was. He did tell Joe not to worry about it, it had been bound to happen sooner or later, Dan would have to admit he was getting older.<\/p>\n Joe concentrated on the arrangements for the drive too busy to have any time to worry about Dan while his father accepted what had happened and put it to the back of his mind as he had had to do so often with far worse things in the past. Neither man expected any trouble but a drunken Dan fell in with the two men he had helped Joe run off, Sand and Temple.<\/p>\n They saw a way to use the old man in order to get the drive payroll out of the Cartwrights with no personal risk to themselves. Dan had heard a few home truths since leaving the Ponderosa and it was clear that as the story spread as to why he had left the ranch, no-one else was going to give him as job as a wrangler. Facing the prospect of a life eked out as a swamper in saloons like one of his old companions, Dan was willing to listen to the two men. He convinced himself that he was owed the money after the long years he had worked at the ranch and went along with them, with the promise that no-one would get hurt.<\/p>\n Just as Adam stepped off the train in Reno, his little brother was taken prisoner by Sand and Temple, on his way home from Virginia City with stores for the drive. Joe was more upset by seeing Dan watching up the hill, watching but not helping, than by being taken prisoner.\u00a0\u00a0Adam couldn\u2019t face the stage and he hired a horse for the last stretch so eager now to get home and see his family.<\/p>\n Joe was tied up and left over by some rocks. Cold and sore, he watched the two men by the fire and it didn\u2019t need a genius to guess what they wanted. Cursing himself for not being more alert on the way back from town Joe could only wait and see what happened. The discussion between the two men left him in no doubt that once they had the money they had no intention of leaving a witness. Ignored he was at least able to start work on the ropes holding his wrists together behind his back, rubbing them against the rock wall.<\/p>\n Ben was alone at the house, late in the evening he was wondering where his youngest son was, hoping Joe had just taken the stores straight out to the herd, where Hoss was looking after things just until his little brother could get out and take over. When Ben heard someone at the door he went over expecting to see Joe but he was delighted to see Dan, hoping it meant the old man had changed his mind.<\/p>\n Dan found it harder than he had expected, but remembering how he had been thrown on the rubbish dump by Ben and his son, he pulled a gun on Ben and demanded the payroll if he wanted to se Joe again. He gave Ben Joe\u2019s gun as proof they were holding his son.<\/p>\n Ben could hardly believe what he was seeing, he hadn\u2019t dreamt that Dan would react that way. It seemed so out of character for the man he had counted a friend for nearly thirty years. He was hurt that Dan could do that but as he said he would have given Dan the money if he had asked. Even now he could take it and Ben would not pursue him, provided Joe returned unharmed, but if any harm came to his son he would go after Dan and there wouldn\u2019t be anywhere far enough or dark enough for Dan to hide.<\/p>\n As morning came Joe was nearly through the ropes but Temple was about to check them. Luckily Dan arrived and the two men were only interested in the money. Dan was going to cut Joe loose but Sand and Temple had other ideas and they intended to kill both Dan and Joe. There was sufficient distraction for Joe to launch himself at Sand and Dan grappled with Temple. Both pairs fought hard and then there were three shots, leaving two men dead and Joe hurt.<\/p>\n Joe was bitter, Dan had all the money just what he wanted. Dan insisted that Joe had forced it on him but Joe wouldn\u2019t take that he wasn\u2019t the first man to get old. Joe told Dan to take the money and go and try to buy a friend as good as his father.<\/p>\n Dan couldn\u2019t do it and instead he went over and helped Joe back into the buckboard to take him home.<\/p>\n Ben could only wait for morning and pray that Joe would return unhurt but he didn\u2019t even bother to go to bed, knowing he wouldn\u2019t sleep. It was nearly midnight when he heard a horse coming in and Ben hurried over to the door praying that it was Joe but to his utter amazement he saw his eldest son riding up to the house.<\/p>\n Ben stared at Adam almost in disbelief, so many different emotions vying for supremacy. He was surprised and delighted to see his son when he had feared it might be years before he did so but equally his youngest son was being held and he couldn\u2019t help the superstitious feeling that he was getting one son back to lose the other.<\/p>\n Adam frowned unsure at his reception but he dismounted and moved over towards his Pa, unable to find his voice to say anything. Ben was no better off but he moved swiftly forward and engulfed his son in a hug needing the physical contact. For a moment that was enough but then Adam pulled back and gripped his father\u2019s shoulders \u201cAlright Pa what\u2019s wrong, you wouldn\u2019t be rushing out here at this time of night if there wasn\u2019t trouble. Where are my brothers?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHoss is with the herd but…\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLittle Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019ll be home in the morning.\u201d Ben said but Adam knew his father too well and could hear him trying to convince himself. Ben had a multitude of questions himself but for now it was enough just to see his son. \u201cCome on Son lets see to that horse and then go get some coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam willingly went along with that and the two men worked together as they had so often through the years and in no time had seen to the horse. As they went in Ben couldn\u2019t resist resting his arm round Adam\u2019s shoulders and then, sitting by the fire as they had so many nights through the years, he quietly told his son everything that had been going on and where his brother was.<\/p>\n Adam listened in silence but after a while he got up and collected the brandy bottle and poured two glasses, pushing one over to his Pa. He had missed his brothers so much and he didn\u2019t dare let himself believe that he had returned just for his little brother\u2019s funeral. There was a touch of near desperation in his voice as he protested that Joe would be alright, he was a survivor.<\/p>\n Ben reacted to the tone of voice rather than the words and moving over behind Adam, Ben began massaging the tight knots in the neck muscles that he knew he would find. Adam lent into the familiar hands and slowly relaxed. As he felt the tension ease a little Ben risked the question that had been uppermost in his mind since he saw his son \u201cWhy didn\u2019t you let us know you were coming, just how have you managed it, is everything alright?\u201d It seemed as soon as he started to ask a question, they all came bubbling out, but to his relief Adam just smiled up at him and Ben knew whatever had happened Adam had everything in his life under control.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m fine Pa. I just wasn\u2019t sure how long it would take me to get here so I thought I\u2019d surprise you, typical of my little brother to upstage me.\u201d Slowly Adam had calmed down and allowed himself to reach out to his youngest brother and for now he was confident that Joe was unhurt. \u201cPa I can\u2019t believe that Dan will let anything happen to Joe. He has seen him grow up from a baby, whatever has been said he must still care.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben moved round to face his son and studied his face as though he would find the truth there and then with a voice thickened by emotion, he moved forward again to hug his son \u201cGod I have missed you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell you are stuck with me at least until the autumn.\u201d Adam said and then seeing the look on his father\u2019s face he added quickly \u201cThen six months should finish it, in Boston this time, back at Harvard.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben searched his son\u2019s face and seeing the peace that had been missing for so long, he relaxed a little. If he could just get his youngest son home safely then everything would be right in his world.<\/p>\n It seemed a long night to both father and son despite all the catching up they had to do, somehow neither of them could concentrate on that until their family was complete again, and both were glad when dawn arrived. Hop Sing was visiting a sick cousin and so Adam went into the kitchen to get some fresh coffee and cook some eggs for breakfast. Ben did at least rouse enough to comment that his son must have been practising as his coffee had improved, but only picked at his food.<\/p>\n Adam sat back \u201cDo you want me to go and see if I can pick up a trail, or go tell Roy?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot yet, give it another hour, if they released the boy this morning he may have had to walk home, but he could be anywhere. Dan warned me that I would only make matters worse if I tried to follow.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDan won\u2019t let him be hurt.\u201d Adam reiterated but the lack of conviction in his voice was obvious to his father and Adam could no longer retain his conviction that Joe was fine. More from the need for something to do than for any other reason Adam went out to clear the barn chores that had been such a part of his life for all but the last months. He was surprised how stiff he felt as he straightened up before going into the house. His back wasn\u2019t exactly painful just reminding him to be a little careful how he moved, but that was quickly forgotten as he saw their buckboard approaching the yard. Dan Tolliver was driving and as Adam moved forward he saw his little brother lying in the back, blood obvious on his side.<\/p>\n Ben had also heard the horses and he came out as Adam moved to lift his brother\u2019s unconscious body. \u201cPa get the doors for me and I\u2019ll get him up to his bed.\u201d Ben nodded abut he had turned to Dan \u201cHow bad is it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHis side, don\u2019t reckon it\u2019s got the lung, I\u2019m so sorry Ben I never meant the boy to be hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNever mind that now go down to the bunkhouse and get Hank started for town to fetch Doc Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Ben, best get Roy Coffee too.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYour partners?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBoth dead.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen we have no great need of Roy. Leave that until Joe is fit. Hop Sing isn\u2019t here so you go get some water boiling in the kitchen.\u201d<\/p>\n Dan stared at him in disbelief \u201cYou don\u2019t want him to lock me up?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou brought Joe home that\u2019s all that matters.\u201d Ben insisted and then turned to hurry after his sons. By the time he got upstairs Adam had his brother on the bed and was easing him out of his shirt and trousers. He hadn\u2019t touched the cloth that Dan had pressed against the wound to stop the bleeding, it appeared to be clotting so he would leave that for Doc. He smiled reassuringly up at his father \u201cI\u2019ve seen little brother recover from worse. Breathing sounds okay.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben relaxed a little and getting cold water he began to wash Joe\u2019s face but his son showed no sign of coming round. All they could do was wait for Doc although Ben did go and send word to Hoss out at the herd. He needed to talk to his son and anyway Hoss needed to know that his older brother was back. Hoss might have been quieter about it than Joe but Ben was well aware he had missed Adam just as much. One of them would have to take the herd out because it was obvious Joe wasn\u2019t going to be fit enough.<\/p>\n When he came back he heard Adam talking to his little brother and Ben hurried in but Joe was still out cold. Adam looked up a little embarrassed \u201cI thought he might be able to hear me even if…\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know Son, but as you said he has recovered from worse. Maybe best he rests quietly until Doc gets here.\u201d<\/p>\n They were in luck Hank found Doc heading back to town from a visit to Mrs Foster who had had twins four days earlier. Doc quickly turned his buggy and headed out to the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n He was very used to visiting the ranch and knowing that Hop Sing was away he just walked in and called for Ben. Ben had seen the buggy and he was at the top of the stairs almost immediately \u201cJoe\u2019s in his room.\u201d<\/p>\n Doc came up and Ben yelled to Dan to bring the boiling water and then followed Doc into Joe\u2019s room. Doc was very surprised to see Adam but moved over to shake his hand \u201cWelcome home Adam. Your little brother is sure going to be pleased when he sees you, best medicine he could get.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI hope so.\u201d Adam moved out of the way to allow Doc to get to his brother and then as Dan brought the water, he helped hold Joe still as Doc soaked the cloth of the wound. Joe moaned slightly but he didn\u2019t really come round and Doc was able to examine the wound. He considered it and then turned to Ben and Adam. \u201cJoe\u2019s going to be fine but the bullet has splintered a couple of ribs. I need to scrape them and I think I need to put Joe under while I do it. Adam you can handle the ether for me if you would.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam nodded it wasn\u2019t the first time he had assisted Doc in caring for his brothers and although he hated it, it was still preferable to being banned downstairs where he could only sit and worry. It didn\u2019t take long for Doc to complete the repairs and sow Joe up and as he did so he told Adam to stop the ether. He bandaged Joe up and then they could only wait for him to come round. Joe was slightly feverish but Doc insisted that was to be expected a reaction to the trauma, as was his continued unconsciousness, his body reacting to heal itself.<\/p>\n Eventually Doc pulled the blankets up round Joe and agreed to go downstairs for coffee, promising he would stay for a little longer until hopefully Joe woke up. Ben would have liked to stay with his son but for once he gave way and let Adam stay with his little brother. Adam kept cold compresses on Joe\u2019s forehead and reverted to talking to his brother.<\/p>\n Downstairs Doc expressed his surprise at seeing Adam home and asked if Ben had been expecting him Ben shook his head \u201cNo he surprised me last night, but you\u2019re right Joe is going to be very pleased to see his brother.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs he back to stay?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFor a few months anyway and then I think he is only planning a short trip.\u201d Ben smiled \u201cTime will tell but for now we will enjoy having him home.\u201d<\/p>\n They had just finished their coffee when Hoss arrived back in a hurry. He hadn\u2019t been able to make much sense of the message he had got just something about his brothers and trouble and that he was needed back at the house. He rode in and threw his reins to Dan, not even thinking about his presence. Hoss ran in \u201cPa, Pa\u201d<\/p>\n Ben moved out from the dining room to greet his big son \u201cTake it easy Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong where\u2019s Joe, he hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe was shot but he\u2019s upstairs resting Doc has patched him up, not too bad. Adam is looking after him.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss stared at his father as though he had lost his wits \u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n He got his answer from the top of the stairs as Adam moved out for a minute having seen his brother\u2019s arrival \u201cYes, you big galloot, now get up here.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss took the stairs three at a time and grabbed his older brother in a bear hug, hardly able to believe his own eyes. Adam didn\u2019t want to leave Joe alone and led the way back into Joe\u2019s room. He went back over to his brother and replaced the compress; Hoss gently felt his brother\u2019s forehead \u201cDon\u2019t feel too bad. Why ain\u2019t he coming round?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDoc used ether to make sure Joe was still while he cleaned up the wound, just be a little while I guess.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss nodded and then turned his attention back to Adam \u201cIt\u2019s real good to see you brother. How come you got back?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell I told you I would get through faster.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou finished studying?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot quite about another six months but not until the autumn. We\u2019ll have plenty of time to talk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019s your back?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cVery much better, hardly troubles me at all now. One of us has to take the trail drive out, Joe sure can\u2019t do it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI was gonna set up the lumber camp while Joe took the drive.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight toss you for it, winner chooses which job to do.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou sure Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCome on Hoss I haven\u2019t been away that long. I still know how to run a drive or serve as bull of the woods.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss grinned at his brother \u201cGiven I never win against you or Joe, why don\u2019t you jest choose now?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam punched his brother\u2019s shoulder \u201cI\u2019ve missed you. If you don\u2019t mind I really don\u2019t want to leave the ranch, I\u2019ve missed it too.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOkay I\u2019ll take the herd and you can take a few days with Joe before you need to set up the lumber camp I think he\u2019d like that.\u201d<\/p>\n To their surprise a voice answered Hoss from the bed slightly mumbling and not quite with it Joe asked, \u201cWhat\u2019ll I like?\u201d Joe hadn\u2019t managed to force his eyes open yet and he had just managed to recognise Hoss\u2019 voice.<\/p>\n Adam moved swiftly over to Joe and eased a hand under his head to feed him some water, ordering his big brother to call Pa and Doc.\u00a0\u00a0Joe was confused, he knew the touch and the voice, but it couldn\u2019t be true Adam was in Europe and he wondered if he was delirious. Yet it felt so real and when he put his hand up Adam gripped it. Joe asked, \u201cIs it really you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s me little brother, can\u2019t turn my back without you getting into trouble so I thought I had better come home.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJust take it easy Joe, you\u2019re going to be fine.\u201d Adam moved to one side to let Doc in but he kept hold of his brother\u2019s hand just to let Joe know he was there. Doc didn\u2019t take long to confirm Adam\u2019s opinion. He ordered Joe to stay in bed for the next three days and take it very easily for the next fortnight and then he would take the stitches out and see how Joe was. Joe barely seemed to be listening he couldn\u2019t take his eyes off his eldest brother and Doc realised that. He turned to Ben and went over a few details and then asked if Ben wanted Roy to come out. Ben hesitated not wanting to drag his old friend out but something had to be done with the two bodies. Deciding that he didn\u2019t want the men buried on the ranch, so he would take them into town and let Roy deal with it there.<\/p>\n Doc was surprised it wasn\u2019t usually that easy to drag Ben away from any of his sons when they were hurt, but Ben nodded over to the bed where Adam was talking quietly to his brothers. \u201cI think Joe has all he needs at the moment.\u201d<\/p>\n Both Joe and Hoss were very content to see their big brother home and relaxed and Adam made it very clear that he was not leaving until October and only then for a relatively short trip. Neither much cared how he had achieved it, the important thing was that he was home.<\/p>\n Hoss had to leave the following morning and take the drive out but even then Adam rode along for most of the first day not wanting to lose contact with his brother too quickly. Then he returned to his youngest brother who had forced himself to stay awake until Adam got back not daring to go to sleep in case this was all a dream.<\/p>\n Once Adam had sat down next to him and described the events of the day Joe soon drifted into a peaceful sleep and Adam left the door open, sure he would hear if Joe wanted him and went down to join his father.<\/p>\n Ben had sat back and watched affectionately as the brothers re-established their close relationship but he was eager for his own chance to learn what his son had been doing over the last eighteen months and perhaps, more importantly, what his plans were for the future.<\/p>\n Adam relaxed in his favourite blue chair and considered his father with intermingled affection and amusement. Ben didn\u2019t miss that expression and shook his head at his eldest son \u201cI still wield a mean belt so don\u2019t push your luck.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI think I\u2019m a bit old for a visit to the barn, for a tanning Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not so sure!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam just lazed back in the chair and smiled at his father, the grin reaching his eyes and a full display of his dimples. \u201cAny questions you have I will try to answer, it is so good to be home.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow long are you home for?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cForever!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019d love to believe that Son but I know you too well and you said something about Boston.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam got restlessly to his feet and went to get some fresh coffee and then he propped himself upon the fireplace, staring into the fire. \u201cOkay Pa, a few basic facts. I pushed hard in Cambridge and got my part one before Christmas, instead of over three years. Harvard is being very slightly awkward and wants three assignments to add to that before they will give me the equivalent. Provided I get those done to a satisfactory standard and send them in before August I can move into their fourth year. I need to be there by the 31st<\/sup>\u00a0of October and by the end of March I will be finished. Pass everything and I qualify although I will have to pass the bar here and in California although that is just a formality.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd then?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI told you I wanted to study law as it would be useful here on the ranch I still intend to use it that way.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd your back?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cVery much better. I guess I should leave the breaking of horses to little brother and the younger men, but otherwise I can do my share. Starting with the lumber camp the day after tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI hope you know just how delighted I am to have you home, I have missed my right hand man over the last eighteen months. I know you can\u2019t have missed how pleased your brothers are.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo more so than me Pa. I have missed all of you so much and, once Joe is settled tomorrow, I want to go up to the lake because I have missed that too.\u201d Adam considered his father \u201cIf you have the time I would really enjoy the company.\u201d<\/p>\n That was one offer Ben had no intention of turning down. Hop Sing had returned that morning and could keep an eye on Joe while they were away and he was sure that Adam wouldn\u2019t leave his little brother for very long. He was glad to hear Adam talking as though he was there to stay but he was not convinced yet that the wanderlust wouldn\u2019t take hold of his son again. Thinking of that Ben encouraged his Son to tell him some of his adventures in Europe, knowing that he hadn\u2019t stayed in England all the time.<\/p>\n Adam enjoyed reminiscing about some of his travels, a few stories he would keep to regale his brothers but most of it was fit for parental consumption and he knew that Ben had travelled widely enough as a ship mate to know the excitement of new places.<\/p>\n Some of it Ben had heard in outline in letters but it was very different getting the full story in person from his son, Adam had always been a very good storyteller able to build a picture in words. Father and son talked late into the night but even so when Ben went up he found Adam in with his brother tucking the covers round Joe\u2019s sleeping form. Adam looked up, not even embarrassed, \u201cStill as restless a sleeper as ever.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYour brother doesn\u2019t change.\u201d Ben looked down at him gently smoothing Joe\u2019s hair back of his forehead and then as Joe settled peacefully recognising his father and brother\u2019s touch, Ben added \u201cHe always settled well for you as a kid and that doesn\u2019t seem to have changed either.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam just smiled at him and headed for bed himself, but the smile stayed with Ben as he headed for bed, his eldest son was totally relaxed his dimples showing clearly and the smile lighting up his eyes. Like an icon for the future it hovered in Ben\u2019s mind, all the time Adam looked like that the future was bright.<\/p>\n The following day Adam knew he had to get up into the hills and re-establish himself as the Bull of the Woods, but he had no intention of going before he had spent an hour with his youngest brother. Adam had spent part of the time the previous day arranging for stores to be taken up to the campsite that Hoss had chosen. He had been out at first light sending his crew up to the hills, confident that with Sport he could make up time and catch up the wagons.<\/p>\n Joe was awake early and determined to get up. He was surprised to find no argument from his eldest brother and, having got his way on the main point, he was willing to relax and let Adam help him get dressed. His side was still very sore and it hurt when he breathed but he was glad to get out of bed and move around, get rid of some of the stiffness. Adam eased him to his feet and then moved round in front of his brother and gripped his shoulders. \u201cI have to go and get the lumber camp set up. I\u2019ll try and get back in a couple of days but please give me your promise, take it real easy. Give Pa a break.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJoe studied his eldest brother for a minute and then he grinned \u201cI\u2019ll give you that promise if you give me one.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d asked Adam suspiciously.<\/p>\n \u201cThat you are home to stay.\u201d Joe said very quietly, and to Adam\u2019s amusement he noticed that Joe had fingers crossed on both hands. \u201cAdam gripped his brother\u2019s shoulders and pulled him close for a moment. Joe rested his head on Adam\u2019s shoulder but he still needed an answer. Adam gently massaged Joe\u2019s neck \u201cI will have to go back to Boston at the end of October but that will only be for six months. After that you have my word I will come home and, as far as I have planned, I mean to stay here. I have missed you and Hoss and Pa and the ranch itself. I won\u2019t make any promises because no-one knows what the future will bring but I have no intention of leaving.\u201d<\/p>\n That was enough for Joe he trusted his brother implicitly and he could understand that Adam wouldn\u2019t promise if he wasn\u2019t one hundred percent sure. Adam had never broken his word and for the foreseeable future he had his brother\u2019s word that he would be there. Joe relaxed, surprised himself just how much better he felt with that word.<\/p>\n Adam made good time up to the hills revelling in the feel of his strong chestnut under him and the beautiful scenery he had grown up with. Even the myriad of chores incumbent on him in setting up the camp didn\u2019t disturb his serenity. Happy to be doing a job he could do well and feeling physically fit, Adam found things went far more smoothly than he felt he had any right to expect. After a couple of days he was able to hand over to Will Hunter, a logger who had been with them for a number of years and head home in the late afternoon. He would barely be back for dinner and would have to leave before dawn but Adam was confidant that Hop Sing would feed him well and it was worth it to see his family after too long an absence.<\/p>\n Ben was surprised when Joe wouldn\u2019t settle for dinner, but Joe insisted they wait that his brother was coming home. Ben was hungry and he was beginning to get impatient when he heard a horse come in. Dan was waiting and took Sport for Adam leaving him free to go and see his family and Joe relaxed grinning at his father \u201cI told you he was coming, he promised.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam quickly washed up and then joined his father and brother. Ben considered him carefully, unsure just how fit his son was but the natural grace of Adam\u2019s movements put his mind at rest, trusting the body language far more than anything Adam might say.<\/p>\n Adam was delighted to see his little brother looking much better healing as fast as ever and he relaxed in a zany mood, keeping his family laughing over the antics of some of the loggers, particularly when they disturbed a wasp nest and fled in all directions.<\/p>\n Joe was delighted to see him and that was obvious to Adam and pleased him enormously. For once Ben could have read both sons like a book and he just sat back and enjoyed the obvious affection between the pair.<\/p>\n Adam was up at four and heading back up into the hills but the short night and long ride was more than worth it in his estimation and he went back to work thoroughly refreshed by his visit. He only managed two more fleeting trips over the next couple of weeks, as the schedule at the camp became more demanding. Then to his delight Joe came up to join him bringing fresh stores and, even more importantly their father\u2019s order, that Adam give the men a holiday and get himself home for a party on Saturday when their big brother should be back from the drive.<\/p>\n Adam was delighted to see his little brother looking so much better and pleased that Joe was going to stay over night, give him a hand to update the paperwork and ride back with him. Adam had devised the method they used for keeping track of cutting and he had taught Joe himself but even so he was pleasantly surprised at Joe\u2019s efficiency, which allowed them to get away at least two hours earlier then he had hoped on the Saturday morning.<\/p>\n Adam suggested tentatively that they went home via the lake and Joe willingly agreed. It was the first time that Adam had been there since he left for Europe and he went over to kneel by the graves. Joe left him in peace and moved up to the point overlooking the lake. There were three graves, one that Joe visited regularly was his mother\u2019s, and the other two belonged to Ross and Delphine Marquette. Adam had been best man at their wedding sand then five years later Ross had become mentally ill killing Delphine and Adam had been forced to kill him. Joe knew very well that his brother still blamed himself for not noticing earlier that something was wrong and perhaps being able to change the course of events.<\/p>\n Despite being slightly sombre when he rejoined his brother Adam soon relaxed, the lake had always had the effect of bringing all problems into perspective and now seeing it again after a long break he was even more aware of the beauty of the view. Finally he lazed back and looked up at Joe, who was grinning broadly. Adam raised his eyebrow quizzically and Joe got up moving slightly away \u201cI was just having a bet with myself that wherever you wandered abroad you never found anywhere more beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam laughed \u201cYou\u2019d have won Joe. I saw some pretty spectacular scenery but I kept comparing it with this and nothing quite measured up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell if you have seen your fill for the moment we ought to get home. I\u2019ll bet Pa has a few last minute jobs for us and we can\u2019t leave them all to Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI was wrong little brother you have changed. It never used to worry you, leaving Hoss to do the work!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell maybe not but it\u2019ll be good to see the big moose, too long since we were all three home together.\u201d Joe said a little sheepishly but Adam accepted his hand to get back up and nodded his agreement he wanted to see Hoss too.<\/p>\n The party went well, and if a number of the younger girls were there to see Joe, even more were there to welcome Adam back, a favourite companion for many of them; quite a few still cherished hopes of changing his bachelor status. All three brothers enjoyed dancing and the food and Adam found a few minutes to catch up with some of his male friends. Even so it was the quiet few minutes when the guests had gone home and the four of them collapsed amongst the detritus of the party that meant the most. All three brothers supported Ben\u2019s suggestion of going to church the following day, followed by a picnic and some fishing for just the four of them.<\/p>\n Adam found himself far more moved by the church service than he had expected, as the preacher welcomed him back to the congregation and just being there with his father and brothers with so many memories. He could almost see the squirming child that had been his little brother and then it merged into the fine young man that his brother had become. Adam bit his lip, determined to hide his emotions and he managed it for all but his immediate family. Ben was almost brusque at the end of the service and to Adam\u2019s infinite relief proclaimed that they needed to get home, work awaiting them. Joe looked disappointed at that, thinking his father had forgotten the promised fishing trip. Adam knew his father rather better and he moved close to him and murmured \u201cThanks Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben pushed fairly fast on the way home and each was quiet lost in their own thoughts, bot Hoss and Joe were depressed at the idea of working that afternoon and Adam lost in his memories. Ben himself was very conscious of his eldest son and hadn\u2019t realised why his younger sons were so quiet. As they pulled up in the yard Ben ordered Joe to go and collect the food from Hop Sing while the rest of them saw to the buggy and saddled up their horses.<\/p>\n As Hoss and Joe hesitated Ben frowned \u201cDon\u2019t you want to go fishing?\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss stammered \u201cBbbut but you said work.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam grinned \u201cThat was just an excuse to get me out from the old biddies in town who didn\u2019t come to the party\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded and the pair rushed off to start doing the jobs that were needed to get them up to their favourite fishing place. Hop Sing had excelled himself with the picnic for his four favourite people and after eating Hoss lazed back tying the line round his foot and settled to doze.<\/p>\n Joe and Adam were chatting quietly remembering other times they had come fishing and Ben was very content seeing the pair, who had so often argued over the years, in complete harmony. Gradually he joined in and eventually their laughter even woke Hoss.<\/p>\n The fishing was poor as they all made far too much noise but none of them cared as they reminisced and speculated on the future. The mere fact that Adam was talking of a future, which involved him being on the Ponderosa, was enough for his family. As the sun began to set Adam moved up to the point overlooking the lake and stared at the view that he loved. There with all those who meant most to him he felt more at peace than he had in years.<\/p>\n Slowly over the next few weeks Adam slipped back into the life he had known so long. Several jobs required his particular expertise, running water down to fresh pastureland from the lake and building fresh flume to meet up to the main flume to help with cutting in fresh areas. He enjoyed using his engineering skills but still found time to complete the assignments that Harvard had asked for. Ben realised that the brothers wanted time to spend together and as far as possible ensured that he paired Adam equally with his brothers. Eventually with pressure from jobs on all sides Ben did have to ask his eldest son to take over some contract negotiations in Sacramento. Ben knew his son did not want to be away from home and had originally planned to go himself but he had taken a tumble from Buck and badly wrenched his knee. Doc Martin had been scathing at his suggestion that the knee could be bandaged and he would continue with his original plan. Adam had laughed off his apologies and gone up to pack, making a point of taking his leave of both his brothers, before rushing to town to catch the stage.<\/p>\n Adam had been away ten days and came home to an empty house. He was stiff and sore, the road, part washed away by heavy rains few days earlier had been dry and dusty. He felt as though he was bruised and shaken, his back aching still not very happy with stage travel and he was filthy. Once he had checked with Hop Sing that his father had recovered and his brothers were fine, he tentatively asked about a bath. Hop Sing in his inimitable fashion was ahead of him and already had the water heating.<\/p>\n Ben came in and saw his eldest son\u2019s hat on the credenza, he called for Adam but Hop Sing came in \u201cMister Adam is having a bath, hard trip. I think his back ache.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben acknowledged that and asked for coffee, then pouring two, one for himself and one for Adam, he went out to the washroom. Adam was relaxing back in the water allowing the warmth to ease away the aches in his body and as he heard the door he opened one eye and looked up at his father. \u201cHi Pa\u201d<\/p>\n Ben passed him the coffee \u201cDo you mind if I stay and talk?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam grinned \u201cShut that door and then scrub my back and you can talk all you want.\u201d Ben did as he was asked and then as Adam lazed back again he studied his eldest son\u2019s face \u201cRough trip?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell successful I got the contract, good terms I think, but I\u2019ll give a sigh of relief when they finish the railway down here. The roads were in a terrible state, very rutted and dusty. But no matter about that, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben grinned ruefully \u201cIs it that obvious?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam laughed \u201cWhen you can\u2019t even let me soak the travel grime out in peace something is seriously wrong. Hop Sing said you were all okay, so what is up?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben pulled a chair up and sat down sipping his coffee \u201cRoy was out this morning looking for you. He\u2019s badly worried scared he is losing control of the town. It doesn\u2019t affect us directly but…\u201d<\/p>\n Adam whistled softly knowing just how difficult things could be if the town was wide open. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, the mines?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot this time. What do you know about Gustav Kessler?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam frowned whatever he had been expecting that wasn\u2019t it. He considered the question but really it didn\u2019t amount to a lot. \u201cHe owns tow or three saloons and I\u2019ve heard rumours that he\u2019s behind a couple of the madams. I wouldn\u2019t trust him further than I could throw him, very cold and manipulative man, but I thought he was small time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s what we all thought but he seems to have been moving behind the scenes. Roy reckons he has taken over or has an interest or some sort of hold on virtually every saloon in town, apart from the Palace and the Washoe Club. Even they are treading very careful round him since the Palace was near burnt out last week.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah I noticed that when I came through town. Arson?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRoy thinks so but there is no proof, let alone anything to tie it to Kessler. He has most of the madam\u2019s under his control as well and anyone who doesn\u2019t do his bidding gets blacked.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo drinks and no girls, tough for most of the miners.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPrecisely and the big mine owners go along with him because he has threatened to black their workforce and they\u2019d have a mutiny on their hands.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf they all worked togther..,.\u201d Adam laughed at himself \u201cOf course this is Virginia City it would take more than that to make them pull together.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGot it in one Son. Now Kessler is starting up a full scale protection racket but Roy can\u2019t get anyone to make a complaint.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam sat frowning, thinking over what his father had said and despite the hot water he shivered. \u201cHow on earth has he got so big without Roy noticing, he\u2019s no fool.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat was exactly what Roy was asking, not even Dan had heard any rumours and you know he doesn\u2019t miss much. Seems Kessler had made all his arrangements behind the scenes and waited until Roy was away for a week, out on tour, to bring it all out in the open. Clem didn\u2019t know what to do and by the time Roy got back he was met with a fait accompli.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat does Roy want me to do?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRemember Bryant?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam shivered again at that. He had been so scared that he was making the wrong decision and he would pay with his father\u2019s life and his youngest brother\u2019s hatred. \u201cI\u2019m not likely to ever forget him.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben squeezed his shoulder \u201cYou handled it well. The point is we undermined him by showing that he wasn\u2019t above the law. Roy wants to do the same with Kessler. Once we\u2019ve made the initial breech, the rest will follow. We have an opportunity in about three weeks. A federal Judge will be in town. Roy needs help to collect evidence against one of Kessler\u2019s men and to persuade people to testify. Then he\u2019ll get a jury well seeded with men from the ranches, who aren\u2019t under Kessler\u2019s thumb and hope for the best.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou haven\u2019t answered my question, what does Roy want of me?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe wants a deputy he can trust and you have legal knowledge, know what is required, to say nothing of a number of contacts. Clem is fine but Roy needs something more. I didn\u2019t make any promises Adam it has to be your decision, I just said that I would ask you.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam rubbed his hand across sore eyes and then sat up a little straighter, shaking his head \u201cBut you think I ought to agree?\u201d<\/p>\n His father didn\u2019t answer but Adam could read his father\u2019s face. He sighed \u201cIf I do this you and my brothers must be real careful.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLightning doesn\u2019t strike twice in the same place Son.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam wasn\u2019t sure about that but he let it pass and Ben went on \u201cI know you wanted a few weeks quietly at home before you go to Boston, but I do think its important and I think you could help.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAlright Pa, I\u2019ll head in to see Roy tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks Adam, we can\u2019t let someone like Kessler take over Virginia City.\u201d Ben left his son in peace to finish his bath and went into the main room to sit staring into the fire. Ben had revelled in having his eldest son home, fit and relaxed and on very good terms with both his brothers. It seemed to make the Ponderosa complete and now Ben was dreading Adam\u2019s return to his studies. Ben kept telling himself that this time Adam was intending to return. He had known that his son was not at all sure he would ever come back when he set off for his five year course. Then Ben\u2019s only hope was that this land and his family had a tighter hold on Adam than his son realised. He seemed to have been proved right by events, but even so Boston had always had a hold on his eldest son, and Ben was always scared when Adam headed east. Ben tried to shake himself out of his despondency after all it wasn\u2019t that far to Virginia City and he could always find an excuse to go in and see his son.<\/p>\n Suddenly the peace in the room vanished and with it his despondency, as his two younger sons burst in arguing fiercely. Ben couldn\u2019t make any sense of what they were saying as both appealed for his support at the top of their voices. Eventually Ben yelled at them to be quiet and in the sudden silence Adam\u2019s laughter could be heard from the stairs. Quarrels forgotten, both brothers descended on Adam and soon all three were talking at once, as they caught up with the news of the last week. Ben sat back very content watching the banter between his three sons. Neither Ben nor Adam said anything about his job in town that evening, enjoying the companionship between the four that had been so much a part of all their lives.<\/p>\n The following morning Ben broke the new arrangement to his younger sons. He wasn\u2019t surprised at Joe\u2019s instant offer to back his brother, but there was too much to do round the ranch for Ben to allow it. Ben did promise Joe that if it became necessary for Adam to have help then he should go. Adam had collected the few things he would need and with a promise of a beer for his brothers when they could get to town, he took his leave of them.<\/p>\n Roy was pleased to see Adam ride in, although not surprised, he had never asked for help from the Cartwrights and failed to get it. Clem was out on his rounds and Roy poured two coffees as Adam came in \u201cThanks for coming Adam. Your Pa explain what I wanted?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, a sort of temporary deputy cum legal adviser.\u201d Adam grinned \u201cI assume unpaid!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell I reckon the town can manage three dollars a day and I\u2019ve got a spare cot back in my room.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDeal.\u201d Adam laughed but he pulled a face at the strong coffee Roy liked, even worse than his own efforts \u201cAlthough maybe I ought to make the coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n Roy lent back in his chair and studied the younger man \u201cSorry to drag you into this Adam but I needed help I could trust.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cForget it. Now I am here, let\u2019s have some details and you can explain what you have in mind.\u201d Roy swore Adam in formally and the two men, with some help from Clem, spent the day talking and planning possible areas of attack. Then Adam went out and started talking to some of his friends, in areas where Roy as the law wasn\u2019t welcome. He had a long list of places that were paying protection, getting information from some of the saloon girls, the Chinese and the youngsters who worked in the stores rather than from the owners themselves.<\/p>\n Like Sam Bryant years earlier, Kessler did very little of his own dirty work, sitting in the office in his main base the Golden Nugget saloon and the attack would have to be indirect. His second in command, a man called Stevens, actually collected most of the protection money according to Adam\u2019s information, with a gang of four ruffians backing him up. Adam had been sounding out various people to try and find those who would stand up to Kessler, if offered help and support. If they could convict Stevens it would put a huge dent in Kessler\u2019s prestige.<\/p>\n Adam and Roy argued most of the evening going over and over the people who might stand up to Kessler. They ruled out all those with families as being too vulnerable to reprisals. Eventually they whittled the list down to five possibles, all of them close friends of the Cartwrights, two being relatives of Hop Sing. Adam promised to speak to them all the next day and see if he could persuade them to refuse to pay and to testify, promising to put the weight of the Ponderosa behind them to protect them.<\/p>\n The following day Adam managed to get support from three of his possibles, all fed up with paying and ready to rebel even without the promised support. One was Lo Tang a distant cousin of Hop Sing who ran a laundry, the second the town gunsmith John Waller who had been a friend of Ben\u2019s for more than twenty years and the third was a very good friend of Adam\u2019s Chuck Morris. Chuck ran a small independent stock brokers, initially set up with Adam\u2019s support, and he was still Chuck\u2019s most important client, putting all his personal business through Chuck. Adam was very careful to explain the risks but he promised to have two men with them at all times and to be on hand personally when they actually had to face Stevens. All three men had had more than enough of paying protection money and had been about to refuse anyway, now with the prospect of support, they only wanted to be told what to do. Adam insisted that for the next week he just wanted them to continue to pay, not arouse any suspicions. He was determined to time their move as close as possible to the Judge\u2019s arrival, in order to limit Kessler\u2019s chance to react.<\/p>\n During the next week Adam was able to get home twice and he had long discussions with his father but both times his brothers were working out on the range and he didn\u2019t get to see them. Ben could see the underlying worries that his son hid so well in town. Ben thought it was a risky strategy but he had to accept that they had no choice. Good planning should help to eliminate any trouble but he couldn\u2019t help worrying that his son would get caught in the middle. He promised that as soon as Adam sent word<\/p>\n that they were making their move, he would come to town with Hoss and Joe and some volunteers and stay until after the trial.<\/p>\n Adam and Roy went over their plans again and again refining them for all the possible contingencies they could think of. Then all they could do was wait for word that the Federal Judge was coming. The tension began mounting and both men found it difficult to settle to sleep. Adam was used to hard work and with little to do as they waited he found the time hanging heavy on his hands.<\/p>\n Eventually Adam got word from a friend in Sacramento to let them know that the Federal Judge was on the move and would be with them in forty-eight hours. That was the signal for them to move and it fitted in well, as Stevens would be making that week\u2019s collection the following day.<\/p>\n Adam went to see each of the men who had promised to help and gave them the go ahead to refuse to pay the following morning. They already had their two bodyguards but Adam had promised to be on hand personally. The gunsmith\u2019s shop was right next door to Chuck\u2019s stockbrokers so Adam said that he would cover them while Roy stayed with Lo Tang at the laundry. Roy wasn\u2019t happy about it, he was the sheriff and felt he ought to take care of the two shops but Adam knew the men had agreed to help largely because he had promised his personal protection. Eventually Roy had to give way Adam was far too stubborn and just seemed to tune out his arguments.<\/p>\n Neither of them had any clear idea of what retribution Stevens was likely to try but Roy was guessing that the premises would be trashed or even burnt once Stevens had rounded up some more men. They had to allow him to start his action if they were to have a case, but Adam hoped that with the extra support that would be coming in from the ranch, they would be able to prevent too much damage. The one thing that seemed certain was an attempt at swift retribution. It would be essential for Kessler to act fast if he was to keep the lid on things. Both Roy and Adam were assuming that Stevens would have to go back to his boss to get instructions. Kessler kept a very tight rein on all his businesses.<\/p>\n Adam wasn\u2019t taking any chances moving into Chuck\u2019s back room very early to ensure he was there before anything happened. Adam relaxed with coffee enjoying the chance to chat to his old friend and catch up on the news from the last eighteen months. He was still very alert and quick to notice Stevens heading down the street. Adam eased behind a curtain into the back room ready to act if necessary and a witness of what was happening, the other two men stayed well back ready to come on his word.<\/p>\n Chuck had hated paying protection from the beginning and had been one of the most awkward customers that Stevens had had to deal with. Now that he had the chance to refuse with backing Chuck was delighted and he made it very clear as he told Stevens just what he could do with his protection. Adam bit his lip wishing Chuck would just keep it simple but even so he was taken aback as Stevens lost all hold on his temper. Stevens yelled at Chuck \u201cI\u2019ve had all I\u2019m taking from you\u201d and then drew his gun and fired point blank at Chuck before Adam could move. Adam drew his gun and moved out as Stevens fired twice more into Chuck\u2019s inert body. Adam held the gun on Stevens and told him he was under arrest. Stevens\u2019 reaction was a bullet, which took Adam in the left shoulder, but Adam shot simultaneously knocking the gun from Stevens\u2019 hand. The gunsmith had followed them in eager to see what happened as he was about to refuse too, but he stood stunned as he watched the cold-blooded murder. The five men ran out of the shop, pushing the gunsmith out of the way, heading up the street. Adam followed them out and fired twice at their feet and warned them to stop or the next one would be in the back. None of them were willing to risk it knowing Adam\u2019s reputation with a gun. Roy ran up to find Adam grim-faced holding the five, his gun level and for a moment Roy was scared he would shoot. The four men who had been helping guard the premises had come out to back Adam and Roy told one of them to get Adam down to the doctor, while the other three helped him get the five men to jail.<\/p>\n Adam tried to protest but the pain from his wound suddenly broke into his consciousness and he had to bite his lip to stop from moaning. He let himself be led down the street to Doc\u2019s. Luckily Doc Martin was in and he helped Adam over to the examination table. The bullet was still in and Doc sat back and considered Adam \u201cI need to put you to sleep, get that bullet out.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. Just do it Doc. I can\u2019t afford to be out.\u201d<\/p>\n Doc shook his head but as Adam moved to get off the table, he pushed him back down. \u201cIt\u2019ll hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not a fool suddenly, just got a bullet in my shoulder. Get it out and bandage me up. I need to get back over to the jail.\u201d<\/p>\n Doc frowned at him, he had known Adam a very long time and he was usually the most reasonable of the Cartwrights. \u201cCan you explain why Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe have a chance to clean up the mess in this town over the next two days. I asked Chuck to help and he\u2019s paid with his life, least I can do is make sure he hasn\u2019t died in vain.\u201d<\/p>\n Doc thought he had seldom seen Adam look so bleak but he found himself unable to argue. He just gave Adam something to bite down on as he went after the bullet. The bullet was deeper than he had hoped but it had come to rest against the bone and to Doc\u2019s relief had only slightly chipped the bone. Doc had a job to get it out, ten minutes of his life that Adam just wanted to forget, but eventually Doc was able to sow up the wound and pad it heavily before bandaging it. Adam gave himself half an hour to get control and then asked Doc to help him up.<\/p>\n \u201cYou should stay right there and rest Adam, you lost quite a bit of blood.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI need to get over to the jail, once Kessler regroups he may decide to remove witnesses and I don\u2019t want any more of my friends at risk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI sent word to the ranch and I\u2019ll bet your father and brothers will be here soon why not at least wait for them.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam frowned at that he really didn\u2019t want his family involved, although he knew Ben had been planning on coming in, especially now with cold blooded murder. Doc just smiled \u201cYou can yell at me if you like but there is only one of you. If I hadn\u2019t sent word I\u2019d have had the other three yelling.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam had to accept that but he swung his feet down and pulled himself rather unsteadily to his feet. He got his balance and cradling his left arm to his chest reached over for his gun-belt. He swayed as he stood and Doc hastily came to steady him. \u201cAt least let me fix a sling for that arm so it doesn\u2019t pull on the shoulder.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam accepted that and the help to put on his gun-belt and then rather steadier he headed down to the jail. Doc insisted that he had to check Stevens and therefore needed to go along with Adam although the bullet had only hit the gun, breaking one finger as it wrenched the gun from Stevens hand and probably deflecting the aim enough to save Adam\u2019s own life.\u00a0\u00a0Doc knew better than to offer any support in public and could only walk next to Adam and hope that the brittle strength that was keeping him going wouldn\u2019t run out before they reached the jail. Roy had seen them coming and hurried down the street to meet them. He wasn\u2019t taking any nonsense from Adam and put his arm round Adam’s waist to support him, wanting his friend safe under cover but he was canny enough to say \u201cCome on Adam I need my witness safe.\u201d Put that way Adam accepted the help, his legs were beginning to fell rubbery and he was very grateful to be able to lean on the older man. Roy eased him straight through to his own room out back and deposited Adam on the bed, moving round to lift his legs up and then getting out of the way so that Doc could check his patient.<\/p>\n Adam settled back and closed his eyes for a few minutes, waiting for the world to stop whirling round him. Within ten minutes he was back up and although he accepted coffee and a chair he wouldn\u2019t return to bed. He made a brief and very bitter report and Roy knew he was blaming himself for Chuck\u2019s death but when he tried to tell Adam that it wasn\u2019t his fault Adam ignored him, shutting himself off. He sat sipping coffee apparently oblivious to everyone else.<\/p>\n Roy was sufficiently worried to ask Doc just how badly hurt Adam was. Doc shrugged \u201cI\u2019m sure he feels weak and ill but the bullet is out, didn\u2019t do too much damage and at least it was his left shoulder. He\u2019s lost some blood and should be in bed for the next three or four days but you know Adam as well as I do. At the moment the death of his friend is hurting far more than his shoulder. We can\u2019t do anything about that. Only one who might is Ben and I sent word to the ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnything I can do until Ben gets here?\u201d Roy asked<\/p>\n \u201cJust keep an eye on him. If he starts getting feverish call me and keep him supplied with drinks, coffee, water, soup maybe.\u201d<\/p>\n At the ranch Joe had been busy training some of the newly broken horses and Hoss had ridden out to check the cattle in the west pasture. Ben was working on the books but his mind kept straying to his eldest son. He knew that Adam would be making his move any day now and he was scared there would be trouble that even Adam couldn\u2019t handle. It didn\u2019t come as any great surprise to Ben when word came from town that Adam needed them. He was expecting both of his other sons back for lunch in half an hour or so and decided to wait until they arrived. Doc had told him that Adam had been hurt but had emphasised that he was alright. Even so Ben had Hop Sing make up sandwiches they could eat on the way to town. Then he went out and sent word for the six men, he had already chosen from the volunteers, to come to town and meet them.<\/p>\n Joe and Hoss actually rode in together, both laughing, but as they saw their father\u2019s face the laughs vanished. Joe pulled Cochise up close to his father \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe need to go to town, Adam has been hurt.\u201d Seeing the alarm on his younger sons faces \u201cHe\u2019s alright. Just a shoulder wound but he does need our help.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShall I saddle Buck for you Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks Joe. Okay with you two if we eat on the way, I have sandwiches?\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss moved closer \u201cI\u2019ll just go get a drink Pa and I\u2019m ready we can eat when we get to town.\u201d Ben smiled at his big son, he had no doubt that Hoss had been looking forward to his lunch all the way back in from the west pasture but, despite his big appetite, he would put that on hold if his brother needed him.<\/p>\n The three Cartwrights made good time to town and went to Doc\u2019s first, at least it was on the way. Doc was half expecting them and as Ben pulled up he moved outside to speak to them. Ben asked \u201cIs he here?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo he insisted on going down to the jail. I had to take a bullet out of his left shoulder. He wouldn\u2019t let me put him out so it was painful. Chuck Morris had three bullets in him, two in the heart, he died instantly.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd Adam is blaming himself?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou know your son Ben. I\u2019ll be over later to change the dressings.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded \u201cThanks Paul.\u201d<\/p>\n They rode over to the jail and then Ben asked Joe to take the horses down to the livery. Joe wanted to object, he was just as anxious about his brother but one look at his father\u2019s face changed his mind. Roy was glad to see Ben come in and he gestured over to the back room, where they could talk privately. Ben had expected to see Adam but Roy just shook his head \u201cYour son is even more stubborn than you are. He insisted on carrying on as though nothing was wrong, gone out on patrol. I tried to dissuade him after all he is an eyewitness, but it didn\u2019t work. I sent Clem with him but apart from actually tying him up, there wasn\u2019t a lot I could do to stop him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s alright Roy I do know how impossible it is to change his mind. Any idea where I\u2019ll find him?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam had walked round the main saloons and he could almost taste the tension in them, the taste of fear. Eventually he went into the Palace. Part of it was still cordoned off after the fire but the bar had been reopened and Adam ordered himself a large brandy. His shoulder was throbbing and he wouldn\u2019t take any of the painkillers Doc had given him, he needed a clear head. The bartender Quincy wasn\u2019t at all sure that he should serve Adam, word had spread very quickly that Adam had arrested Stevens and his four cronies and he was scared that Kessler wouldn\u2019t approve of him serving Adam. Even as he hesitated Kessler appeared personally \u201cGive the man a drink Quincy, he looks as though he needs it.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam took absolutely no notice of Kessler just picking up the brandy and sipping it. He used his left hand despite his sling and his right hand hovered near his gun. Kessler was a tall thin man and he was used to looking down on his associates but he had to look up slightly at Adam which annoyed him. Kessler was known as a cold calculating man and he wouldn\u2019t admit that Adam had got to him, so keeping a firm grip on himself, Kessler said almost conversationally \u201cI hear that there has been some slight misunderstanding between you and Stevens. I don\u2019t quite see what this has to do with the Ponderosa Adam.\u201d It was all said with a slight smile on his face, although it never reached a pair of the coldest eyes that Adam had ever seen.<\/p>\n The smile vanished instantly as Adam said \u201cThe name is Mister Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n There was a sudden intake of breath by nearly everyone in the saloon and then a stunned silence. Everybody had always used the brothers\u2019 first names to distinguish them from their father and this was the first time anyone could remember any of them objecting.<\/p>\n Then Adam turned round to face Kessler for the first time, his own eyes black with anger met Kessler\u2019s cold blue eyes, but Adam\u2019s voice was like ice as he said \u201cThe slight misunderstanding you mentioned was cold blooded murder. I was there. I saw it. I shall testify and I will watch Stevens hang.\u201d As he finished speaking Adam pointedly turned his back and picked up his drink again and for once Kessler was lost for words. He realised that trying to talk to Adam\u2019s back just made him look small and so he shook his head, trying to show that he was just sorry at Adam\u2019s stupidity, and walked out.<\/p>\n There was utter silence in the saloon as all of them looked from one man to the other and slowly the men began to whisper to each other about the events they had just whispered. Adam remained at the bar an oasis of quiet in the renewed babble of noise in the saloon. The expression on his face more than sufficient to prevent anyone speaking to him directly.<\/p>\n Adam was apparently in a world of his own but he was watching everything that was happening behind him using the mirror over the bar. His right hand still hovered menacingly close to his gun and nobody was about to challenge him. He was still there sipping his second brandy when his father found him.<\/p>\n Ben sighed heavily, his son was pale under his tan and he could see the tension in every line of his son\u2019s body, maybe not apparent to outsiders but all too obvious to his father. Adam didn\u2019t even look at him as Ben came up still apparently staring into his brandy, but he had seen the approach and as Ben gently rested a hand on his shoulder, Adam said \u201cHi Pa, I\u2019ve been expecting you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI think we need to talk, shall we go somewhere quiet?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam tossed off his drink and turned to face his father for the first time \u201cOkay by me.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben led the way over to Beth Kelly\u2019s house. She was a very old friend of all of the family and these days, a business partner in the Hale and Norcross mine. Ben was sure that she would lend them her front room and they could talk in comfort. Adam didn\u2019t say a word as Ben greeted Beth and asked if they could scrounge some coffee and some peace and quiet. Beth knew them well enough to know that something was wrong and that father and son needed time alone, so that she said that they were welcome to coffee but she had an appointment at the dressmakers.<\/p>\n Ben didn\u2019t believe in her appointment but he kissed her forehead gratefully and led Adam into the front room. Adam sank gratefully into a chair and lent back shutting his eyes. His shoulder was aching fiercely and he had lost a fair amount of blood, but it was his sense of failure, of being responsible for Chuck\u2019s death, which made his head pound. He continually thought round in circles trying to find the one move he should have made which would have ensured a different outcome, feeling so guilty.<\/p>\n Ben didn\u2019t really need any explanation for the pain that was so obvious on his son\u2019s face now they were alone. He knew none of it was because of his physical injuries it would all be his son\u2019s deep-rooted feeling of responsibility. He knew that Adam had been close friends with Chuck for more than fifteen years, only a few days between them in age, Adam had been so much more experienced than the young farm boy, who had come west alone. Adam had taught him to handle a gun, to handle himself in this new land, even the accounting methods and maths that he would need for his stockbrokers business. Over the years the pair had managed to have some fun, even once being bailed out by an irate Ben after an over-exuberant Saturday night celebration. Ben might know how his son was feeling but he was far from sure how to help, this the most private of his sons.<\/p>\n Eventually Adam opened his eyes and met his father\u2019s worried gaze. \u201cI\u2019m okay Pa, but I don\u2019t really want to talk. I misjudged Stevens. I thought he would go back to Kessler for orders and then maybe try to burn the place. I never expected murder.\u201d<\/p>\n He bit on his fist and turned away from his father to look out the window \u201cFor that misjudgement Chuck paid with his life. It just makes it that much more important to break Kessler.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben moved over and gripped his good shoulder \u201cJust one thing Son. Chuck was a grown man. He knew the risks. From all I\u2019ve heard he was about to refuse on his own account and, it was partly because he had always been so awkward, before that Stevens reacted so instantly. Please don\u2019t take all the blame on yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam pulled away and going over to the window he stared out \u201cI asked him to refuse. I promised to protect him. I failed and he\u2019s dead. Nothing you can say changes any of that.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben knew Adam too well to say anymore at least for now and he left his son alone. Some ten minutes later Adam moved back to sit down and take a cup of coffee. There was slightly more colour in his face and the mask was up to hide the naked pain that had been so apparent since Beth left them alone. Ben waited until Adam had finished his coffee and then suggested that they ought to return to the jail.<\/p>\n Adam nodded and although he let his father help him to his feet in the privacy of Beth\u2019s room, he pulled away as they emerged, unwilling to show any weakness in front of the town. The jail seemed a very long way away and he was keeping going by sheer willpower by the time they reached it. That much was obvious to both his brothers, who moved forward simultaneously. Ben shook his head at his younger sons as Adam oblivious of them moved over to perch on Roy\u2019s desk. Ben signalled to Hoss to get coffee for his brother but for now Adam was only interested in what Roy had to say. After trying to talk to him in the bar Kessler had come over to the jail and tried to post bail for his men. Roy had refused it was a capital charge and the judge would be convening court the following morning at ten, until then the men stayed in prison.<\/p>\n Stevens was insisting that he was innocent that he had fired in self defence and Kessler seemed prepared to wait for the trial. Now that Adam was safe inside the jail, as was John Waller, using the sheriff\u2019s room, Roy was fairly sure they would have a quiet night. If Kessler couldn\u2019t get at the witnesses his next move would probably come at the trial itself.<\/p>\n Both Waller and Adam were very clear Chuck hadn\u2019t had a gun. Despite all Adam had taught him he was still more dangerous to himself with a gun than to anyone else. He had never owned a handgun and hardly ever used the rifle he kept at his own home, not at his office.<\/p>\n The night passed slowly but at least without any alarms. Adam sat in a chair tilted back against the wall and seemed to be studying the ceiling intently. Each of his brothers had tried to say how sorry they were and to try to get him to rest but had been swiftly cut off by their brother. In the end the pair had settled in one corner where low voiced they could at least discuss their worries and vent their frustration about their pigheaded older brother. Ben would dearly have loved to order Adam to go lie down and get some sleep but he managed to keep quiet, to his eldest son\u2019s relief.<\/p>\n \u00a0Eventually dawn arrived and it was obvious that Kessler wasn\u2019t going to make a move until after the trial. Ben sent Joe to find Doc while Hoss collected food for them, then to his horror Adam announced he was going to the barber\u2019s to get a shave. Roy tried to dissuade him but Adam just didn\u2019t seem to hear him, neither would he accept Roy\u2019s offer of a loan of his razor. Roy turned to Ben for help, but Ben knew just what his success rate in changing Adam\u2019s mind was when he had that expression on his face, and just stated that he would go with his son. They were in luck, the barber had just opened and nobody was waiting so they were able to take the two vacant chairs. Adam had his gun on his lap as he waited his turn and wasn\u2019t surprised to see Ben doing the same. The barber was a bit nervous but he managed to shave them without nicking them and Adam felt decidedly more human once he was clean-shaven.<\/p>\n Ben checked the street and then almost begged his son to go quietly back to the jail and wait for the court hearing. Adam even managed a half grin it was so unusual to hear that note in his father\u2019s voice but he did comply. Doc was waiting for them and just shook his head at his obstinate patient well used to it from the Cartwrights. He helped Adam take his shirt off and then carefully removed the bandage. The dressing had slightly stuck to him and Joe brought over some boiled water to soak it off. At least the wound was clean with no sign of infection and Doc gently bathed it before redressing it and putting on a slightly neater bandage. He tried to fix the sling back but Adam pushed it away. His pride wouldn\u2019t let him wear it in court. He would state the facts, he would not give anyone the opportunity to claim he was going for a sympathy vote because he was hurt.<\/p>\n Doc gave way shaking his head at Ben, \u201cObstinate all your sons.\u201d<\/p>\n Despite his care Doc knew that he had hurt Adam and he passed over some coffee but\u00a0\u00a0Adam shook his head, he wasn\u2019t at all sure he could even keep coffee down and he turned away from the food Hoss brought, his stomach threatening to rebel. Hoss would have protested knowing his brother hadn\u2019t touched any food most of the previous day, but one look from his father quelled his protest. After the trial there would be time to fuss at Adam and get him to rest and eat; it was a waste of time trying now and would just make it that much more difficult for him.<\/p>\n Roy decided to go and talk to the Judge and at least put him in the picture. He knew Judge Nicols well and knew he would stick to the letter of the law, but he also had a strong feeling for justice. If something wasn\u2019t actually against the law he would allow them the benefit of the doubt, if it served the ends of justice. Once apprised of the situation he might at least allow them some latitude in choosing the jury. The public prosecutor John McNeill was a very able man and a good friend of Adam\u2019s and the evidence was strong with two eyewitnesses. Judge Nicol broke it to Roy that he had seen Morton go into the Golden Nugget earlier and he was doubtless acting for the defence. That came as no great surprise, he was expensive and cunning, with a reputation of being the most likely to extricate a guilty man from trouble. Kessler had to do all he could to try and get Stevens free. It would be an enormous blow to his own prestige if his second in command hung. Any grip of fear only works with the co-operation of those who are afraid and if the law handled Stevens, then with the backing of the Ponderosa, it might stiffen an awful lot of backbones. Kessler was making large profits and he had no intention of giving up without a fight.<\/p>\n The whole of town knew exactly what was resting on this case and by nine o\u2019clock the courtroom was already beginning to fill up as everyone wanted to watch the confrontation between Kessler and the Cartwrights. The trial started promptly at ten and the jury were soon seated. Nobody missed the significance of the jury picked out of elderly townsmen or those from outside town, people who were the least vulnerable to being blacked by Kessler later. Judge Nicols had been willing to go that far but he would give reasonable latitude to both sides, this was a capital crime.<\/p>\n John Waller, the gunsmith was the first witness for the prosecution. He told of the protection racket and of his and Chuck\u2019s determination not to pay. He told them how he had sneaked out and into the next door shop as Stevens and his four men walked in, wanting to know what the reaction was to the refusal. He had heard Chuck refuse and then heard Stevens say \u201cI\u2019ve had all I\u2019m taking from you\u201d and then saw him draw his gun and fire point blank at Chuck twice and then once more when Chuck was already down. Then he had seen Adam Cartwright come in from the back and exchange shots with Stevens, shooting the gun out of Stevens\u2019 hand. The five men had run out past him, but stopped when Cartwright shot at them again.<\/p>\n The room listened in almost hushed silence and everyone seemed to lean forward as Morton got to his feet He started off almost conversationally \u201cAdam Cartwright asked you to refuse to pay?\u201d<\/p>\n Waller had to admit that he did and also admitted that Adam had been there deliberately in case of trouble. Then Morton tried to get the gunsmith to agree that Chuck had picked up a gun from his desk when he refused to honour the legitimate business contract. Waller looked at him as though he was mad and shook his head \u201cEveryone knows Chuck never had a hand gun, just a rifle and he was a lousy shot with that. Anyway since when is taking money under threat a legitimate contract!\u201d<\/p>\n Morton went back over the same ground several times in slightly different ways but he wasn\u2019t able to get Waller to budge.<\/p>\n Then Lo Ting took the stand and confirmed the protection racket and the plan to refuse to pay. Morton left very clear his underlying feeling that the old chinaman couldn\u2019t be expected to know anything about the law in the United States or be relied on to tell the truth. Ben could see all his sons tensing up at the blatant racial prejudice but he couldn\u2019t help thinking that they should have expected it and maybe the choice of Lo Ting hadn\u2019t been that sensible. The older man sat there very dignified and stuck to his story, but Morton just brushed it aside as though this witness was irrelevant, and then it was time to call Adam<\/p>\n Adam moved forward to take the stand. It was already obvious that the defence intended to extricate their men by throwing dirt at Adam and Joe was near boiling point. Ben gripped his youngest son\u2019s arm and warned him to simmer down his brother could handle things. McNeill took Adam through his testimony, which supported John Waller precisely, but then he had to turn Adam over to Morton.<\/p>\n Morton asked \u201cYou are part owner of the Ponderosa, a large ranch outside of town?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI am.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhy are you acting as a deputy in town when you have a ranch to run?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam said \u201cThe forces of law and order seemed to need a little help and some very good friends of mine were being victimised so I offered to help out.\u201d<\/p>\n Morton went on \u201cDo you admit to setting a trap for my clients?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam lifted an eyebrow in a very familiar quizzical expression and said mildly \u201cIf by setting a trap you mean that I asked some friends to stand up to Stevens and refuse to pay him money demanded with menaces, then yes I did. It\u2019s every citizens right to withstand illegal demands, indeed it can be considered to be their duty.\u201d<\/p>\n Morton snorted \u201cNothing illegal about a business contract.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDepends on the contract.\u201d<\/p>\n Morton said \u201cYou knew Morris was going to refuse to pay?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou were present because you expected trouble?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam nodded wondering where he was going with this line of questioning \u201cYes, although none of us expected it to happen so quickly.\u201d<\/p>\n Morton objected and Judge Nicols told Adam to just answer the questions. Morton went on \u201cYou expect us to believe that expecting trouble from what you term dangerous men, Morris didn\u2019t even take the simple precaution of arming himself?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam said \u201cMr Waller has already told you that Chuck was no good with guns, he would be more likely to hurt himself. Chuck didn\u2019t even own a gun. He expected me to protect him.\u201d Despite his best efforts, the bitterness was obvious in his voice and his brothers tensed up worried about him.<\/p>\n Morton lent forward \u201cI suggest that not only did he own a gun but that he was pointing it at my client and that is why you, a known gunman, were too slow to move.\u201d<\/p>\n Little Joe nearly erupted at hearing his brother described as \u2018a known gunman\u2019 but one look from Adam kept him quiet. Adam calmly answered the accusation \u201cThat\u2019s nonsense.\u201d<\/p>\n Morton went on \u201cI further suggest that you hid the gun after my client left the shop with you shooting at him.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam was very pale but calm \u201cThat\u2019s a lie.\u201d<\/p>\n Morton said \u201cNo more questions.\u201d<\/p>\n McNeill took the opportunity to go over Adam\u2019s testimony on redirect \u201cJust to get things clear, was Morris armed?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat form of trouble did you expect?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam shrugged slightly and then wished he hadn\u2019t as it tore at his sore shoulder \u201cWe weren\u2019t sure, reprisals of some kind when he refused to pay, maybe an attempt to burn down his office later. The last thing I expected was murder then and there. I admit I was slow to move and that Chuck Morris paid with his life for my slowness, but I just didn\u2019t expect cold-blooded murder.\u201d<\/p>\n Morton objected and the Judge ordered Adam\u2019s last comment to be struck from the record. Adam just looked stubborn but he was released from the stand and was able to rejoin his family.<\/p>\n The defence was already well trailed and led by Stevens each of the five men gave an almost identical story. The prosecution witnesses were lying. Chuck Morris had grabbed a gun from his desk and threatened Stevens who had shot in self-defence and then Adam Cartwright had hidden the gun. McNeill got nowhere on cross- examination, the men had been well primed to keep quiet and say as little as possible, they just kept reiterating the same statements.<\/p>\n Late in the afternoon the Judge summed up \u201cThe only real point at issue here is whether the deceased was armed or not. The legality or otherwise of the demand for payment is irrelevant in this enquiry. If you believe the prosecution Morris was unarmed and the defendant Stevens is guilty of murder with the other four defendants guilty of aiding and abetting. If you believe the defence Mr Morris was armed and actually pointing the gun at the defendant, who shoot in self-defence and then Adam Cartwright hid the gun. One or other of the groups of witnesses is committing perjury and you must decide between them.\u201d<\/p>\n Then the jury filed out but no-one in the courtroom moved. Nobody expected it to take very long to get a verdict<\/p>\n Adam had sat very still showing no emotion as the defence continually branded him a liar and accused him of trying to railroad an innocent man. Hoss and Joe were both furious and unable to hide it and Ben had difficulty in keeping them quiet, especially as he was so angry himself. Now Adam turned on his brothers and told them to calm down, it wasn\u2019t important.<\/p>\n That lost Joe all hold on his temper and he burst out \u201cNot important! He calls you a perjurer, a gunman, accuses you of tampering with the evidence, and conspiring to railroad an innocent man to the gallows and you say its not important.\u201d He just had enough control to keep his voice down but he couldn\u2019t hide his outraged feelings. Then under Adam\u2019s steady gaze he fell quiet and looked down unable to meet his brother\u2019s gaze. Adam reached out and gripped his arm, he wasn\u2019t really cross with Joe warmed by his brother\u2019s indignation on his behalf, but he had to make them see what he meant.<\/p>\n \u201cLook Joe I say it isn\u2019t important. No-one who knows me, or whose opinion is important to me, will believe a word of it. Even if the jury brings in a verdict of not guilty it won\u2019t mean that they believe it, only that they used it as an excuse. The whole town knows Stevens is as guilty as hell, they knew Chuck and they know John Waller and me. That\u2019s not what\u2019s on trial here. What\u2019s on trial is the grip of fear the Kessler has on Virginia City. Whether they will stand up to him or whether Chuck has died in vain. I can\u2019t risk losing that just for the sake of losing my temper over what some shyster lawyer chooses to call me.\u201d<\/p>\n His family sat in silence for a minute then Ben said \u201cYou\u2019re quite right Adam and I congratulate you. I don\u2019t think I could have remained so calm even though I agree it was necessary.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam looked up and just for a moment the mask slipped \u201c Not calm Pa, just under control.\u201d His family were momentarily taken aback by the sheer fury that showed for a moment and the Ben moved forward and put his arm round Adam\u2019 shoulders \u201cWell done Son. The important thing if to break Kessler, that must come first.\u201d<\/p>\n Then before any more could be said the jury started coming back in and Adam went over to join Roy. They were quite hopeful about the verdict, sure that at least two member\u2019s of the jury were very unlikely to succumb to Kessler\u2019s threats so easily.<\/p>\n The whole room seemed to be holding its breath as the judge called for quiet and then asked the foreman of the jury for their verdict. The man stood up and seemed to be unable to look at the court, keeping his eyes firmly on the paper in his hands, but his voice was clear enough as he stated \u201cGuilty as charged.\u201d<\/p>\n Pandemonium broke out in the court and the Judge had a job to get quiet but eventually Adam called for quiet and all the people, who\u2019d been trying to congratulate him fell silent. Joe and Hoss were grinning broadly but Ben new that this was only the first step, The Judge sentenced Stevens to be hung by the neck until he was dead. The sentence to be carried out at dawn the day after tomorrow. Adam and Roy stared at each other knowing the next days were going to be very hard, they had 36 hours to hold Stevens. Roy went to protest but Judge Nicols said \u201cI have to give the accused time to sort out evidence for an appeal if it exists. Federal law has stipulated that this is the smallest period of time between sentence and execution. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n It would have been easier to accept if Stevens hadn\u2019t sat there grinning broadly, he seemed very unworried for a man who had just been sentenced to death. Roy ordered him to his feet and with Adam\u2019s help led him over to the jail. The other four he sent with four men to the jail in Carson City to serve their sentence of ten years. No-one seemed the slightest bit interested in the four men, everyone\u2019s attention was on Stevens.<\/p>\n Stevens himself came over to the two lawmen, he ignored Roy and looked straight at Adam \u201cVery neat Cartwright but this was only the beginning. You\u2019ll never hang me,\u201d<\/p>\n Adam didn\u2019t answer he knew only too well that Kessler didn\u2019t dare let things rest. Roy led the way over to the jail, his hand firmly on Stevens\u2019s shoulder while Adam brought up the rear, confident that his father and brothers were ready to act in support if it was needed. Even so both Adam and Roy gave a sigh of relief once they had Stevens locked up in a cell again.<\/p>\n Ben and his younger sons followed them in and Roy sat down at his desk \u201cSo far so good.\u201d He got out a bottle of brandy and five glasses and passed them round \u201cI\u2019ll be real glad when the next couple of days are over.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben sipped his brandy gratefully \u201cWe\u2019ll stay in town, with your deputies and our men that gives us fourteen. All steady men, good with a gun, Kessler isn\u2019t going to find it easy to get to Stevens.\u201d<\/p>\n Roy smiled \u201cI\u2019ll be very glad to have you but even so Kessler has to make a move or he\u2019s past history.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam was standing over by the window staring out, oblivious of everything, as he sipped coffee the brandy ignored. Roy dropped his voice as he spoke to Ben nodding over towards his eldest son \u201cThey slammed hard into him, he kept remarkably calm.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben shook his head \u201cHe\u2019s been simmering furiously underneath all the time. He\u2019ll explode soon with all this and Chuck\u2019s death. I\u2019ve already told his brothers to leave him alone.\u201d<\/p>\n For once Joe and Hoss were doing as they were asked, sitting quietly in the corner and discussing their mutual concerns, but without worrying Adam.<\/p>\n Eventually Roy straightened up \u201cRight we have a long haul ahead of us, no point in everyone being exhausted, so some of us need to get some sleep. We\u2019ll keep four on duty at any one time and the rest try and get some sleep.\u201d Ben nodded that made sense and between them the two older men drew up rotas to cover the next couple of days. Roy took one shift giving one of the others to Adam and the third to Ben. Ben put Joe with his oldest brother and took Hoss on his own shift. Then Roy told all those not on rota to try and get some rest.<\/p>\n Adam couldn\u2019t settle his shoulder was still very sore, and he felt so guilty over Chuck\u2019s death, and he was still raging over the mud that had been thrown at him in court.\u00a0\u00a0He had told his brothers that it wasn\u2019t important and the jury had rejected it, but he couldn’t help being angry and he had had to bottle it up, which didn’t improve his temper.<\/p>\n Wandering around Adam saw lights approaching from the back and called Roy in. The two men studied what they could see but couldn\u2019t make up their minds what it was. Adam said \u201cI\u2019ll slip out and go have a closer look.\u201d<\/p>\n Roy shook his head \u201cGood idea Adam but you\u2019re not going. You may have dispensed with a sling but you\u2019ve still got a hole in you.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe had joined then and he said \u201cI\u2019ll go Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam hesitated not wanting his youngest brother to take any risks, but he knew that Joe could move very quietly in the dark and he nodded \u201cOkay. But don\u2019t take any risks. We want to know if they are coming this way and if so how many there are.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe grinned tightly at his brother \u201cAlright I\u2019ll be real careful.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam patted him on the back as Joe slipped out the front and then stood staring out on tenterhooks all the time his little brother was out there. Joe worked his way round to the back and found a group of about twenty-five men. Kessler was giving precise orders for the attack. If he could get Stevens out all well and good but the jail was well built and easy to defend so he didn\u2019t expect too much from the frontal assault.<\/p>\n His main aim was to disable the sheriff and clear the way for his second ploy.<\/p>\n Joe edged himself over as close as he could trying to hear what was being said but Kessler was nearly finished and he just heard the orders to split into four groups to attack from different directions, both at the front and the back. As they began to get organised Joe headed back to the jail and slipped inside, his brother anxiously waiting for him opening the door to let him in. Joe told Adam and Roy the little he had gleaned and Roy got all the rest of the men up.<\/p>\n The tension began to mount in the jail, a confined space for all the guards present, as they waited for the first move from outside. Adam was trying to load a spare gun, with his left arm still pretty useless, he knew he wouldn\u2019t have a chance to do it in the heat of the action. Even without the pressure of time he was clumsy and Hoss noted and came over to do it for him, chiding his brother gently for not asking for help \u201cYou take it real easy Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam gave his brother the first real smile he had managed all day \u201cI\u2019m fine Hoss but thanks for the help. I\u2019ve been waiting for a chance to fight back.\u201d<\/p>\n Roy and Ben were debating the pros and cons of sending a group out to attack from the rear but as Joe warned them of the scale of the attack and that it was coming from more than one direction it seemed too risky. Then the silence was broken as a fusillade of shots came at the jail from both sides. Roy took charge at the front leaving Adam at the back. They returned fire and at least a couple of the shots found their targets judging by the cries they heard.<\/p>\n Battering rams were brought into play at both the front and back doors but the jail was sturdily built. Roy fired buckshot into the men using the ram at the front and they dropped it and scattered but he paid a heavy penalty. A sharp shooter was waiting for just that opportunity and fired catching Roy in the ribs. At the back Adam had done the same but the sharp shooter stationed there rushed his shot and he only succeeded in creasing Adam across the top of his left arm.<\/p>\n Ben ran over to his old friend as Roy collapsed and as Hoss came over he had his big son lift the sheriff through onto the cot in his back room. It was a bad wound and the bullet was still in. Ben fixed a pad to stop the bleeding with Hoss\u2019 help and then he had to leave it until they could fetch Doc.<\/p>\n The firing had settled down to sporadic outbursts and there were no more attempts to ram the doors so Ben left Hoss to keep a close eye at the front while he went in back to check on his other sons. He found Joe just finishing tying a bandage round Adam\u2019s arm and hurried over. Little Joe grinned reassuringly \u201cOnly a crease Pa, nothing to worry about.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam pulled away from his brother \u201cWhat\u2019s going on out front Pa.? This lot have basically pulled back, just the odd shot to keep our heads down.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAbout the same at the front Adam but Roy\u2019s been hit.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam looked up in alarm and Ben gripped his right shoulder \u201cIt\u2019s a nasty wound in the ribs and he\u2019s out of it for the next couple of weeks, but he will be okay.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam took a deep breath, at least his friend would be alright, but the burden on him suddenly felt ten times heavier. Ben could read his son in this and he did his best to reassure him \u201cI know that puts the pressure on you Son. You\u2019re the chief deputy so you are in charge but your brothers and I are here, anything we can do to help.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam closed his eyes for a moment, even with his family\u2019s backing the pressure was huge and he felt weak and ill, his head pounding, his shoulder on fire again. The bullet, which had creased his arm, had jarred the older wound, but he had no choice but to play the game through to the end and ensure that Stevens paid the penalty, he owed Chuck that much and more. With a supreme effort Adam straightened his shoulders, asked his brother to keep an eye on things for him and went through to check on Roy himself. The older man was unconscious but at least the bleeding seemed to be under control and Clem was looking after his boss. Adam went back out to check on things at the front but it was fairly quiet and Hoss firmly took his arm and made him sit down. He brought over coffee well laced with brandy for his brother \u201cAin\u2019t nothing you can do for the minute so you just take it easy afore you collapse too.\u201d<\/p>\n For the moment Adam was well aware that his family could look after things far better than he could and he shut his eyes trying to ease his aching head, but he had never felt further from sleep. He thought round in circles trying to guess Kessler\u2019s next move, knowing that this was far from finished and that most of Virginia City would keep out of the way until they could see who had won this battle.<\/p>\n Eventually dawn came and with it the attackers vanished back into the saloons. When there hadn\u2019t been any shots for more than ten minutes and with nobody in sight Ben asked his youngest son to go and fetch Doc. Adam heard that and came to his feet \u201cJoe you be real careful please.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe had seldom seen his eldest brother show his concern so clearly and he moved over to grip his arm \u201cI\u2019ll be careful but don\u2019t worry I\u2019ll be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam nodded someone had to go and he doubted his own ability to get as far as Doc\u2019s, but he took up position at the window with a rifle ready to protect his little brother if necessary. Joe headed down the street without any trouble and within ten minutes he was back with Doc and the news that food was on its way, the jail clear.<\/p>\n Adam had gone in to Roy who had come round and was trying to apologise to Adam for getting hit and leaving him to cope alone. Adam smiled \u201cI\u2019m not exactly alone Roy. Clem will help and my family, we\u2019ll cope.\u201d<\/p>\n As Doc moved in to check the wound Roy passed out again and Doc sat back \u201cI need to get him down to my office, where I can get the bullet out but I think he\u2019ll be fine. Hoss, Clem if you two can give me a hand I think we can get him there without jostling him too much.\u201d<\/p>\n The two big men nodded and Doc turned his attention to Adam \u201cWhile I\u2019m here lets get that dressing changed and then you need to go get some rest or you are going to collapse.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam wanted to protest but somehow he couldn\u2019t get the words that he wanted out and he found himself gently pushed down into a chair by his youngest brother. Ben left Joe to help Doc and took stock. Roy was out for the duration and his eldest son barely on his feet but the rest of the men needed a lead and would look to him for it. At least Kessler appeared to want the cover of darkness for his actions, at least for now, and with another full night to go. Ben made up his mind all the men looked tired and they would need their wits about them over night, so he decided to send half the men to eat and get some rest. Then they could swap over. He headed in to join his sons and see what Doc had to say. Doc was just straightening up from re-bandaging Adam\u2019s shoulder. He smiled at Ben \u201cNo infection. Just taking time in healing I guess he\u2019s too busy to spare the energy for his body just now. Get tomorrow over and then get him home for some peace and quiet.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou think he can cope until then?\u201d<\/p>\n Paul laughed softly \u201cThis is Adam we are talking about. I know you expect your sons to obey you in many ways but, with all due respect, there is no way that either you or I will get Adam to leave town until Stevens is hung.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben smiled ruefully and sighed \u201cHe is a mite stubborn, gets it from his mother.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen he got a double ration.\u201d Paul added and then more seriously said \u201cHe\u2019ll keep up all the time he needs to. But try and make sure you or one of his brothers stays with him and get him to bed soon.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben glanced over at Adam who seemed oblivious of the discussion between his father and the doctor. That in itself was enough to tell Ben that Adam was near the end of his tether. Ben beckoned Joe and Hoss over to him \u201cOkay we need to get organised. Adam must get some sleep. I want you to go with him Joe, take half the men eat over at the hotel and then you get some rest. Make sure you share a room with Adam, I don\u2019t want him on his own. Then about midday bring every one back and we\u2019ll swap over. If Adam is still asleep, let him rest he needs it.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe nodded \u201cSure Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben turned to his big son \u201cFood is on its way Hoss so don\u2019t worry you won\u2019t starve.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Pa, as long as I get some grub, I\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben gave his orders to the men dividing them into two groups and then went back over to Adam and told him what he had arranged. Adam listened quietly and nodded it made sense but he needed to talk to his brothers and father first. He said as much and Ben turned \u201cHoss, Joe here a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n The brothers came over the question clear on their faces. Adam pulled himself to his feet shrugging off Hoss\u2019 helping hand, he was very serious as he looked from one to another \u201cDo you three remember Sam Bryant?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe stared at him as though he was mad \u201cWell of course we do.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen you remember how he tried to get Farmer Perkins out. I\u2019m scared Kessler will try something similar.\u201d Adam hesitated \u201cI\u2019d like you to all go back to the ranch just until this is over.\u201d The expressions on all three faces were so similar that for once the three looked very alike and Adam laughed softly \u201cOkay you don\u2019t need to tell me that none of you are going to do that, but please be very careful. Watch your backs, keep someone with you, please.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded \u201cAdam does have a point. Just take care, but for now Joe take Adam over to the hotel and both of you get some rest.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam wasn\u2019t arguing, he was so tired he was having trouble focusing and he wasn\u2019t even interested in food. Joe arranged for some food to be sent up to the room and headed up with his brother. Adam loosened his belt and let his brother take his boots off and he was asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow. Joe pulled a cover over him and sat down to eat himself. Then he carefully locked the doors and put a chair under it just in case someone tried to get in. He had asked for a room on the top floor with only a small window and he made sure that was locked before taking the other bed and getting some sleep himself. Joe had his gun under his pillow, close at hand just in case.<\/p>\n Joe had just got up when there was a soft knock on the door. He grabbed his gun and moved over to open the door a crack. He let the gun fall as he saw his big brother and Joe eased out into the corridor not wanting to disturb Adam. \u201cWhat\u2019s happening?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAll quiet so far. Pa said for me to take over here, you get some grub and then go join him, let Adam sleep. Roy is on the mend Doc says he\u2019ll be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe grinned at that \u201cThat\u2019s great. I\u2019d miss his ugly mug if anything happened to him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019s Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe didn\u2019t want anything to eat, but went out like a light soon as he laid down. Hasn\u2019t stirred.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBest thing for him. I\u2019ll get him some grub once he wakes up.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe left Hoss to keep an eye on their eldest brother and headed back to the jail to join their father. As he went in he was surprised to see Ben in deep discussion with Dan Tolliver. After Dan\u2019s little venture into kidnapping had been resolved Ben had finally persuaded him to come back and help train wranglers and do any other jobs he fancied. Dan had slowly started taking on responsibility for things round the ranch house, while Jos\u00e9 continued as the foreman out on the range. Ben had let the men sort it out between them and was very pleased with the outcome. Now Dan had come into town to let him know of Kessler\u2019s most recent attempt to put pressure on Adam. Five men had arrived at the ranch to try and burn down the main house and the barn. They hadn\u2019t realised just how many hands Ben employed and, even with most of them out on the range, there were three at the house as well as Hop Sing. Hop Sing had smelt the whale oil that the men were spreading around to ensure the fire took hold and slipped out and down to the bunkhouse. Dan had sent the youngest of the hands Liam over to the training corral to get the dozen hands that were there. Then with Hop Sing and Chris, he moved in on the men who were busily spreading oil around. None of them made a move until the leader straightened up and got out matches. At that Dan fired a warning shot by his feet \u201cI wouldn\u2019t do that.\u201d<\/p>\n The five man had all turned but seeing the gang of cowboys running up from the corral all with guns out and ready and seeing the shotgun that Hop Sing was holding on them and the guns of Chris and Dan, they had given in without any argument. Dan had had them all tied up and left six men to guard them at the line shack closest to town. Then he had ridden in to report to his boss and see what Ben wanted him to do.<\/p>\n Ben had received a note thrown through the window attached to a stone just before Dan arrived, warning the Cartwrights to get home to their ranch if they wanted to save any of it from fire. He had been very relieved when Dan arrived with his news and the mixed feelings were still clear on his face as Joe moved over to join him. Joe frowned worried but Ben smiled at him \u201cIts alright Joseph, Kessler tried a move out at the ranch but he didn\u2019t reckon on Dan and Hop Sing, no damage done.\u201d<\/p>\n Dan laughed \u201cI wouldn\u2019t quite say that old Hop Sing was yelling at everyone about that there smell. I reckon you\u2019re safer here in town \u2018til the smell fades a bit.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe looked very puzzled and Ben gave him a brief summary of what had been going on. Dan confirmed that no real damage had been done. It should at least give them a few hours peace as Kessler wouldn\u2019t know the attempt had failed until later. Joe hesitated \u201cHe must be watching and he\u2019ll know we haven\u2019t headed out.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNothing we can do about that. I\u2019m not leaving this jail unguarded, that would be asking for trouble, the uncertainty can only help. More importantly how is your brother?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe didn\u2019t even stir when Hoss and I switched, sleeping like a baby. Bet he feels much better when he wakes up, reckon he had about had it, he was asleep within seconds once he got to bed. Hoss is on guard and he\u2019ll make sure Adam gets a meal before he comes back over.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s all been quiet here apart from the broken window but Kessler is bound to make another attempt, probably wait until dark.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTime you got some sleep Pa. Have you eaten?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot since this morning I\u2019ll pop over to the hotel and get something and then come back and use Roy\u2019s cot, get a nap.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTake back up Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded and he called Clem over, he hadn\u2019t had any rest either.\u201d The rest of the men who had gone out with Joe had drifted back and replaced the others so they were the last two to go rest. Ben felt a lot better for a decent meal and then, as Clem was nodding off, he told him to go and use one of the rooms they had booked while he headed back to the jail to join his youngest son.<\/p>\n Joe had very nearly lost his temper with Stevens, who was still completely convinced that Kessler would get him out, and was making comments about Adam\u2019s inability to keep up and having to leave things to his baby brother. Joe knew the older man was just trying to get a rise out of him and he did his best to ignore the comments but eventually knowing it was getting to him, he called in one of the others to cover the back and moved out to the front office. He was slightly surprised that his father wasn\u2019t back but not really worried, after all Ben had Clem with him. Maybe Ben had gone up to check on Adam. As the time slowly passed and it reached an hour since Ben left, Joe began to really worry.<\/p>\n Ben had intended to do as he had promised his eldest son and be very careful and he was very alert, particularly on the way back to the jail alone. He had intended to keep someone with him but Clem was obviously exhausted and it was only a hundred yards down to the jail. He was very careful as he walked past alleys determined not to let anyone jump him but he hadn\u2019t seen any danger in the smartly dressed woman in her thirties who was walking towards him. The sidewalk was narrow and Ben moved to one side to let her past but as she brushed against him he felt the gun in his ribs and she took his arm \u201cWalk with me or I shoot.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben had no choice but he knew that he had just made his sons\u2019 job a hundred times more difficult and he found it hard to believe that twice he had let it happen, over confidence in his ability to look after himself costing them all dear. She led him down the next alley and the next thing Ben knew was the sudden darkness as he was knocked out from behind.<\/p>\n Joe was watching anxiously out of the window, when a young boy knocked on the door. Joe took the note that he was given and gave the boy a coin. Then fearing that he knew what was in the note, he moved through to the privacy of Roy\u2019s room to read it, not wanting to let relative strangers see his feelings. It only took a minute and he went back out to send word to his brothers asking them to return to the jail. He was sorry to wake Adam but he knew his eldest brother would want to know as soon as possible. While he waited for them Joe found his thoughts returning to another very long night when his father had been under threat. Bryant had threatened to hang him if the Cartwrights had gone ahead and hung his man. At first Joe had been confident that they could find their father and backed Adam\u2019s refusal to let Farmer Perkins go but as time went on he could only see his father\u2019s dead body and wanted to give in. Adam had argued that they were safer to go ahead and Bryant was too clever to take on the law, if the law showed that it hung murderers. Joe remembered very distinctly his argument with his eldest brother. He had wanted to let Framer Perkins go and grab him again later once Pa was safe but Adam wouldn\u2019t. He had accused Adam of gambling with his father\u2019s life and hadn\u2019t even listened when Adam tried to explain why he had to and why he thought everything would work out. Joe had demanded to know what Adam would do if he was wrong. Joe could still remember so clearly what he\u2019d said so bitterly \u201cWhat will you do if you\u2019re wrong Adam. Will you go out to\u00a0my<\/strong>\u00a0father\u2019s grave and say \u2018Sorry Pa I made a big mistake.\u2019\u201d Equally clear was the hurt on Adam\u2019s face as he had said quietly \u201cHe\u2019s my father too.\u201d Then Adam had been proved right and this time Joe was determined to back his brother all the way. He had trusted Adam to give them the right lead all his life and Adam had never let him down.<\/p>\n Just as Joe reached that point in his thinking he heard Hoss voice demanding to know where he was. Joe went over to the door and called his brothers in. As they came over he scanned Adam\u2019s face, thinking his brother still looked tired and drawn. Adam went over to perch on the cot and took a deep breath before he asked \u201cWhere\u2019s Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe went over to him and handed him the note \u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam. Pa left here with Clem just over an hour ago. He should have been back.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam scanned it quickly and then passed it to Hoss, his face impassive as he tried to hide the sick feeling he had inside. This was just what he had tried to prevent.<\/p>\n Hoss read the threat to kill Ben Cartwright unless Stevens was released and shook his head \u201cSeems to me we bin here before.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe tried to be positive \u201cWell it worked out then, we\u2019ll do it again.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam bit his lip \u201cHow could he, he promised.\u201d He ran a slightly shaky hand through his hair and his two younger brothers looked at each other in consternation, Adam was always the strong one. Joe moved over and sat down next to him putting his arm round his brother\u2019s shoulders \u201cEasy Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam\u2019s head was pounding and for the moment he couldn\u2019t seem to think straight and he was glad to lean against his little brother\u2019s warm strength. Joe looked up at Hoss \u201cHas he had any food?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNope\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell I think we had better get something down him, send someone out for some and meantime get some coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure little brother\u201d Hoss brought coffee laced with brandy and Joe persuaded Adam to drink it. Slowly Adam got control and Joe smiled \u201cGet some grub as well and you\u2019ll feel more human.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs that a promise Joe?\u201d Adam smiled faintly \u201cThanks Joe. I\u2019m okay. Right tell me exactly what happened.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe did not that it helped at all but at least Adam got his brain working. \u201cOkay lets check first in case we\u2019re panicking over nothing. Hoss take two men with you and go over to the hotel check to see if Pa got there and see if Clem is around.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe bullied Adam into eating while they waited for Hoss to get back and, although it tasted like cardboard and he really didn\u2019t want it, Adam found it easier to give in to his little brother and eat than to resist him. He was sitting back with coffee when Hoss reappeared and Hoss grinned at Joe for a moment, at least Adam had a bit more colour in his face, but it quickly faded as Adam asked \u201cWell any sign of Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. He and Clem got there fine, had a meal and then he told Clem to go to bed that he\u2019d be fine getting back to the jail. Clem said he was being real careful checking alleys and the like. I asked in all the stores along the way and no-one saw anything.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam sighed \u201cWell he obviously wasn\u2019t careful enough. Okay as you said we\u2019ve been here before. Do we go ahead and hang Stevens?\u201d<\/p>\n Joe said \u201cLast time you said that it was the only safe way to get Pa back, that if we tried anything Pa would get the first bullet. You still think that\u2019s true?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI wish I knew more about Kessler.\u201d Adam tired to ease the tightness in his neck and Hoss moved over behind him and gently massaged his brother\u2019s right shoulder and neck \u201cJust take it easy Adam, there\u2019s plenty of time. What do you want us to do?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam tried to get his thoughts together and slowly straightened up \u201cOkay we should at least try and find out where they are holding him. Joe you enlist the help of the Chinese, Hoss get the kids out checking and see Dan ask him to get all his contacts working. I want to know if anyone has seen anything and then a systematic check of all buildings. Get Dan to help you he has a map of the town. Make sure that everyone knows exactly where they are checking, at least we should be able to rule out most of the town. Just maybe Kessler is underestimating us, he doesn\u2019t know anymore about us than I do about him. Do what you can but I want you both back here at eight, it\u2019ll be dark by then and we don\u2019t know what will happen tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben came round to find himself in the dark and with a stinking headache. At first Ben was almost scared he had lost his sight but then he saw a line of light under the door. He eased himself up on the cot he had been placed on and swung his feet round. Once his head had eased a little, his memory cleared and he cursed more fluently than his sons would have believed possible. He had no doubts why he had been grabbed, it was exactly what Adam feared most. For now he was left alone and could only hope his sons would cope.<\/p>\n A couple of hours later the door opened and Ben was momentarily dazzled by the light. As his eyesight settled down Ben saw Kessler standing there flicking dust off his suit. He looked down on Ben and Ben decided that he preferred to be on equal terms and stood up to face Kessler. Ben saw a flicker of distaste cross the other man\u2019s face at finding himself only the same height as his prisoner, but then Kessler reminded himself that he had the upper hand. \u201cYour sons had better hand over my colleague Stevens or I will kill you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy sons will carry out the judgement of the court.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf they do they will sentence you to death.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou harm me and my sons will take it out of your hide.\u201d<\/p>\n Kessler signalled to one of the men next to him, who sent Ben flying with a punch to the jaw. \u201cYou do not threaten Mr Kessler.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stayed down knowing if he got up one of them would probably follow up but he couldn\u2019t resist commenting \u201cI am not threatening just stating facts.\u201d That\u00a0\u00a0statement earnt him a kick in the ribs but then Kessler called his men off \u201cMister Cartwright You need to face facts. I have the power in this town, if you continue to fight me then you will have no sons and no ranch. Already your home is ashes and one of your sons is injured. You need to consider your priorities and then I will return so that you may write a letter to your sons giving them their instructions. You have a reputation for keeping firm control on your sons.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA very mistaken reputation, my sons are equal partners in the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI do hope you are wrong in that or you may find you are dead or the sole owner of a desert.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0With that comment Kessler turned his back and Ben found himself back in the dark, worried just what had been happening while he had been out of contact. Had there been a second attack and the home of so many memories really been destroyed? Or was Kessler still not aware of what had happened at the ranch? The idea hurt but it faded into insignificance when put against the concern about his sons.<\/p>\n Adam had settled down and tried to relax, he knew he was sore and weak and he would need to be at his best over the next twelve hours. He had his own plans for the evening, he had to force Kessler to commit himself in public, or the pressure would not be on the man in the way it had been on Bryant years earlier. He had deliberately sent his brothers out knowing they would have stopped him doing what was needed. On the other hand he didn\u2019t want to take too much punishment so he waited until ten to eight, knowing his brothers were due back and would be about soon.<\/p>\n Then leaving strict orders to the men at the jail to only open up to him or one of his brothers, Adam headed down to the Golden Nugget. He refused to take anyone with him but the men at the jail decided he ought to be covered if they were going to be able to face the younger Cartwrights and two of them, Pete and Larry, followed him as he went down the street. Adam had dispensed with the sling refusing to show any sign of weakness, but he held his left arm close to his chest to ease the pain in his shoulder.<\/p>\n Adam knew exactly what he wanted to do and he pushed his way inside the crowded saloon and pushing one man out of his chair used it as a stepping stone up onto the table. He already had everyone\u2019s attention but he was looking for Kessler. As soon as he saw the man step out of his office at the back Adam turned to face him. \u201cI have an announcement to make. With sheriff Coffee out of action I am in charge of the law in this town. The law will do no deals. Stevens will be hung according to the court\u2019s ruling at dawn tomorrow. If any harm comes to my father I will arrest you Kessler and you will also pay the penalty of the law for murder and if by any mischance the law cannot hold you then you will answer to me personally. You will die if you harm Ben Cartwright.\u201d Adam had locked gazes with Kessler and it was the older man who broke the lock and looked away feeling somehow cold and scared.<\/p>\n He moved out where he was visible to everyone, knowing that if he didn\u2019t face Adam down now, or at the very least carry out a very public reprisal, then his grip of fear on this town was a thing of the past. He said \u201cAdam Cartwright I have already told you that if you hang Stevens then you sign your father\u2019s death warrant. Now maybe that is what you want, maybe you have just been waiting to take over but you should discuss this with your brothers before you make a decision.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy brothers will back me, you touch Ben Cartwright and you die.\u201d Adam stated coldly and scared by this man and wanting to pull him down Kessler signalled to four of his men to move in. Adam suddenly found the table he was balancing on was rocking and he leapt down wanting to get his back to a wall. Three others joined in and suddenly Adam found he was facing seven men. The rest of the people in the saloon backed off but they didn\u2019t move to help him, scared of Kessler they would wait and see who was coming out on top in this power struggle before they took sides.\u00a0\u00a0Kessler stood back and watched with some satisfaction as Adam went down under the onslaught.<\/p>\n Adam had managed to land a couple of good blows and at least one of the men was hors de combat, leaning back against the bar holding his jaw. Another was doubled over trying to catch his breath but then a blow on his wounded shoulder sent pain through his whole body and he had sunk to his knees. He began to take a lot of punishment as the men landed kicks on him and he could only see through a red haze as the blood dripped down from a cut on his forehead. Then he heard a bellow of rage and suddenly bodies were being thrown away from him as his big brother came to stand over him and protect him. Adam relaxed knowing he was safe with Hoss there and then he heard his little brother fire his gun. Everyone backed away from the furious pair and those involved in hitting Adam turned and tried to run away. Hoss didn\u2019t really care and relying on Joe\u2019s levelled gun to keep them safe he bent down and picked up his older brother. Adam was just conscious and rested his head against his brother\u2019s shoulder, sore and tired but at least he was safe. He wasn\u2019t really aware of what was happening as Hoss glared round at the people in the bar \u201cNo-one helped him. He\u2019s fighting your battles. You know he\u2019s hurt and should be in bed but you let him fight seven men alone. How can you call yourself men? You deserve Kessler.\u201d<\/p>\n The whole bar watched in silence and Kessler disappeared back into his office as Hoss walked out carrying his brother with Joe covering his back. As they got outside Pete ran over to help cover them and said \u201cLarry has gone to get Doc. We tried to get in Hoss but four of Kessler\u2019s men held us up outside.\u201d The blood and bruises on his face was testimony to his statement and Hoss nodded \u201cOkay Pete lets get him back to the jail.\u201d<\/p>\n Pete ran ahead to ensure there was water onto boil so that Adam\u2019s injuries could be treated, while Joe concentrated on ensuring that his brothers were safe, not letting himself think about how badly hurt his eldest brother was. Hoss was just relieved when he could ease Adam down on the cot, his brother was no lightweight and despite his strength Hoss was glad to put him down. He was even more relieved when Adam struggled to sit up but that didn\u2019t stop him putting his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder \u201cRest easy. Doc will be here in a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe had a damp cloth and wiped the blood from his brother\u2019s face and fed him some water and then chided gently \u201cJust what do you think you were doing Adam? You talk about me being foolhardy and go take on a whole saloon alone with a hole in you.\u201d He shook his head still unsure what had got into his brother.<\/p>\n Doc bustled in and he wasn\u2019t taking any nonsense as he checked Adam over. Adam had added three cracked ribs, bruised stomach muscles and bruises over his kidneys to his injuries and he had broken open both his shoulder wound and the crease on his arm. The rest was cuts and bruises and although Adam would find it hard to eat for a day or so with a badly split lip and was going to have a spectacular black eye none of it was serious. Doc gently cleaned the wounds and then bandaged Adam\u2019s ribs while Hoss supported his brother. He had to redo the stitches in the shoulder wound but just put a firm bandage round Adam\u2019s arm. Then he got out some powders and was about to put one in some water but Adam shook his head \u201cNo painkillers. I\u2019m okay.\u201d<\/p>\n Doc knew Adam very well, so he put the packet down, but he sat down and forced Adam to look at him. \u201cAlright Adam I can\u2019t force you to drink it but you must accept that you are not fit. You rest and take it real easy for the next couple of weeks or you will be collapsing.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll take it easy Doc.\u201d Adam promised<\/p>\n Doc sighed \u201cI thought you had more sense than to get into fights with open wounds in you, you\u2019re worse than your youngest brother.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe grinned broadly at that comment, it wasn\u2019t often that his brother was compared unfavourably with him. Adam said rather resignedly \u201cIt wasn\u2019t my choice Doc.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell you escaped this time but don\u2019t push your luck any further Adam, you need rest.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe went out with Doc and Doc knew him well enough to give him the reassurance he needed. His elder brother would be fine, just needed some rest and a chance for his body to heal. Joe felt a little easier about that at least until he turned to go back to his brothers to see Adam impatiently pushing Hoss aside. Joe hurried over to him \u201cWhat the hell are you doing Adam? Doc just got through telling you to rest.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019ll be plenty of time to rest tomorrow. I need to be up and around now.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell at least come over and sit down, no need to walk around.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cStop fussing Joe I think better on my feet.\u201d Adam was scared that if he relaxed, his bodily weakness would take over and he\u2019d fall asleep, and he didn\u2019t trust his brothers to wake him up.<\/p>\n \u201cJust what did you think you were doing, going into that saloon without even waiting for us to back you?\u201d Joe demanded and his temper wasn\u2019t improved as Adam smiled slightly \u201cI didn\u2019t think you two would let me do what needed doing.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss was equally worried, maybe more so he had felt his brother\u2019s weakness and pain as he carried him, and for once the big man was barely keeping his temper \u201cDadburnit Adam just what was so all fired important that you had to take that big a risk? You could have been killed.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam turned to face his irate brothers \u201cPa\u2019s life.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe frowned \u201cI don\u2019t understand. What good does stirring up Kessler do?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam perched on the edge of Roy\u2019s desk and tried to marshal his thoughts. \u201cBefore when we faced Bryant everyone knew what was happening. Bryant was up front as the leader. We took a chance that he was too smart to risk hurting Pa, if the law showed it would deal with murderers, and we were lucky it worked out.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe stared at the ground \u201cYou<\/strong>\u00a0took the only possible chance and we fought you every step of the way.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam reached out and gripped his brother\u2019s arm \u201cLong time ago brother, we were all scared then. Just like now. You backed me before we knew the outcome.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe straightened up \u201cWell the important thing is now and we act together now.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss grunted \u201cYeah well that\u2019s fine but you still ain\u2019t explained why you went to the saloon.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cKessler is more cunning than Bryant was. He has kept very much in the background, worked through the bartenders and Stevens. I know most people know he\u2019s the man behind them but it would be hard to prove in a court of law. I had to get to him personally. Get him to make a statement in public or there\u2019s no pressure on him. I had to make him realise that if he harmed Pa then he would pay personally.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell I reckon you made your point brother but you sure paid a price for it.\u201d Joe gently touched the heavy bandages round Adam\u2019s ribs.<\/p>\n \u201cNothing that won\u2019t heal. I did wait until I knew you two would be around to pull me out. Now the town has to see I am on my feet that he didn\u2019t hurt me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJust how are you proposing to do that?\u201d Joe asked suspiciously.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u201cWell little brother you are going to take care of things here and Hoss and I are going to do the rounds. It\u2019s about the time Roy normally does his rounds.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLet me go with Hoss, you can barely stand up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJoe this is mind games you know that as well as I do. It has to be me the town has to see that I am fine. I represent the law, it has to be me. Word will get back to Kessler and he\u2019ll be that little bit more uncertain. He\u2019ll know I\u2019m coming after him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOkay brother but just remember that this time you aren\u2019t fighting alone we\u2019re in this together.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam pulled his little brother close for a moment oblivious of the other men in the jail \u201cI hope you know how much that means little brother.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe watched his brothers head out and even though he knew how good an actor Adam could be he was surprised as Adam walked confidently down the street showing no sign at all of weakness or pain. Adam headed over to the Palace where Dan de Quille was as usual writing his next contribution for the territorial Enterprise. He moved over to sit down by Dan glad of the excuse for a rest.<\/p>\n Dan knew Adam far better than most of the townsfolk and he could see a little way through the act and he signalled Quincy for two brandies and then seeing Hoss he queried what he wanted \u201cJust a beer for me Dan.\u201d<\/p>\n Dan passed Adam the brandy \u201cReal sorry but we haven\u2019t found anything. Just about checked every building in town and no sign.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s alright Dan I didn\u2019t really expect anything else. No way to really search and, even if we do find where they are holding him, I\u2019m not sure it will help.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOne thing that might. We are putting out a special edition of the territorial Enterprise tonight, just two sides. A verbatim statement of what you said down at the Golden Nugget and a list of the possible charges and the provable facts against Kessler.\u00a0\u00a0I had to be real careful not to mess up any possible court case so I got McNeill to write the second half. It\u2019s being printed now and we\u2019ll be giving free copies out, down at the Golden Nugget.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam grinned appreciatively at that \u201cThanks Dan it all helps.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell as Sam always said the men is mightier than the sword.\u201d Hoss listened to that statement and for a minute he remembered previous trouble when Sam Clemens had used humour in print to undermine an attempted land grab. Sam was now using the name Mark Twain and was being successful with his tall stories but he still kept in touch with his friends in Virginia City. Hoss wondered what Sam might have done in this situation, still at least Dan was here and working with them.<\/p>\n Adam drained his brandy and eased himself to his feet \u201cSee you later Dan. His mask firmly back in place Adam led the way down to Lo Tang\u2019s but the Chinese hadn\u2019t any news for them either. It was no great surprise and Adam simply thanked him for his help and then he was prepared to go back to the jail. He had done what he wanted and made it clear that the law, in his person, was still in control in town.<\/p>\n It had all been quiet at the jail in his absence but Joe was prowling around unable to settle, worried about his father and his eldest brother. Time seemed to stand still and he kept looking up and down the street scared Adam would collapse, the only thing keeping him calm was the thought that his big brother would make sure Adam was okay.<\/p>\n Ben had been put back in his dark cell but a little later food was brought to him and at the same time his guard tried to torment him \u201cYour sons don\u2019t want you back. Guess they want all that rich ranch for themselves, ain\u2019t willing to deal.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben just tried to ignore him and eat the food; he was totally confidant that his sons would be moving heaven and earth to ensure his safety. It was less easy as the man went on seeing his first jibe had got no reaction \u201cof course it may just be your two younger ones. Ain\u2019t sure that Adam is gonna be around much longer. Took one helluva a beating tonight, folks pure don\u2019t like him bad mouthing Mr Kessler.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben refused to give him the satisfaction of asking for details and tried to hide his feelings, but once he was plunged back into the darkness he buried his face in his hands and prayed for his eldest son. He could imagine all too clearly what Adam had been doing, but his son was already hurt, and a beating on top of that could have done untold damage. All he could do was wait and pray, trust in his younger sons to look after their brother.<\/p>\n Joe was relieved to finally see Adam walking back to the jail with Hoss close by, but not giving any support. That changed the minute the door shut behind them and Adam, having done what he wanted, relaxed slightly. His legs didn\u2019t want to support him but Hoss had been expecting it and quickly put his arm round his brother and helped him through to the cot.<\/p>\n Hoss looked reassuringly up at Joe \u201cJust tired, guess he could do with some coffee and I sure could.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe took the hint and fetched two coffees. Then he tried to persuade Adam to at least get some sleep. At first Adam wouldn\u2019t consider it, but when his brothers promised faithfully to call him in three hours or earlier if there was any trouble, he gave in.<\/p>\n Dan brought a copy of the special edition over personally. He wanted to know how Adam was first and once assured that he was resting easily, Dan went on to explain what had happened when he delivered the copies to the Golden Nugget. Dan was already busy writing up an article for the next day\u2019s edition describing how Kessler had gone nearly purple and had torn the paper into shreds. Dan had thoroughly enjoyed commiserating with him and giving him another copy as a momento.<\/p>\n Kessler had reread the article and the carefully worded threat of charges, recognising the legal language and he was scared by it. He had been so sure that the Cartwrights would give in as soon as their father was at risk, everything he had heard about them in town had said they were a very close family. He kept telling himself that they were just saving face and would give way in the small hours, in the dark. He couldn\u2019t stop checking, sending men to see what was happening at the jail but each one reported further work on the gallows, which were nearly completed. Very restless he tried to think of another way to get Stevens out but each time he tried to work out what to do he could see himself walking up the gallows steps. It had been a very profitable few months in Virginia City and he finally decided that it wasn\u2019t worth the risk, maybe he should cut his losses and take his profit.<\/p>\n His mind made up he ordered one of his men to go and get a buggy from the livery and leave it out back of the Golden Nugget. Then he went up to his office and opened the safe. He had never trusted banks and so he had the money available and began stuffing it into a valise. He had no intention of having the three Cartwrights chasing him and he wrote instructions for Ben to be released and had them taken down to the men at the mine where Ben was being held.<\/p>\n Then he headed back into the bar and in order to keep everyone\u2019s attention there, he ordered drinks for everyone while he slipped out the back door. Two men who had worked more closely with Kessler than most were watching his every move. The men, Schaefer and Bauer, both came from the same small German community back in Pennsylvania and they knew Kessler better than anyone. They had been running the saloons for him with Schaefer based in the Golden Nugget. Now for the first time that they could remember Kessler was running scared. As Kessler left, the pair noticed and followed seeing him get on the buggy and start to drive away, they ran after him. Kessler wasn\u2019t very used to driving himself, he tended to take stagecoaches and trains, so when they reached the corner he gave conflicting instructions to the mare and she balked. That gave the others a chance to catch up and Bauer grabbed at the reins pulling them away from his erstwhile boss.<\/p>\n Kessler had no intention of giving up his money and he drew a gun and fired at Bauer catching him in the shoulder but Schaefer also fired and Kessler was knocked off the buggy, He had taken a bullet in the ribs but grabbed the valise and tried to run.<\/p>\n Adam had just woken up and was sipping coffee when he heard the first shot. Whatever else was going on he was still chief deputy and responsible for law and order in the town, so he grabbed a shotgun and ordered Clem to come with him. The younger brothers looked at each other, and Hoss signalled Joe to go with his brother, he would keep an eye on things at the jail in case it was a planned distraction. Joe moved in behind Adam as his elder brother headed across the streets where shots were still being interchanged. Adrenaline was sufficient for Adam to forget all his aches and pains as he signalled Clem to take one side of the alley and accepting his brother\u2019s help motioned Joe to follow him. The three Germans were far too busy trying to get at each other to take any notice of what was happening behind them and Clem grabbed Bauer without any problem. Joe spotted Kessler and he tapped Adam\u2019s shoulder and signalled where he was going. Very quietly Joe slipped up some stairs at the side of the alley and then dropped down on Kessler from above. As Schaefer tried to see what the noise was about Adam moved behind him and prodded him in the back with the shotgun saying \u201cDon\u2019t even think of moving.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe rejoined his brother hauling Kessler and a large valise with him and grinning broadly \u201cLook what I\u2019ve found.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam bit his lip wondering what to do next and decided the best thing was to get everyone back to the jail and try to sort it out there. He yelled for Clem who dragged Bauer out and then had to turn his attention to Kessler who was almost babbling at him. Adam was sore and drawn but in the dim light, dressed all in black as usual, he loomed threateningly to Kessler without even trying. Kessler tried to make him understand that no harm had come to Ben Cartwright he had ordered his release, he had sent word to the Gould and Curry to release him. Adam couldn\u2019t make sense of what he was saying at first, as under pressure, he had reverted to his original language and was speaking in German.<\/p>\n Joe had heard his father\u2019s name and the name Gould and Curry, so as soon as he had helped Adam get the three men back into the jail, he signalled two of the Ponderosa hands to come with him. They headed up to the mine to see what was going on there.<\/p>\n When Joe got to the mine he found four men in heated argument. Kessler\u2019s note to let Cartwright go had arrived but one of them was a good friend of Stevens and he wasn\u2019t about to give up on the one lever they had, which might buy his friend\u2019s life. Two others were very used to doing what Kessler ordered and had seen his methods with people who disobeyed, so they were all for letting Ben go and getting the hell out of there. The fourth man was swayed one way and then the other but intrigued by the argument and none of them noticed Joe\u2019s arrival until Joe fired a shot in the air and warned all the men to put their hands up.<\/p>\n One tried to go for his gun but got a bullet in the arm so the others did as ordered and threw down their guns. Joe kept control while the other two began tying the men up and then Joe demanded to know where his father was. Totally demoralised none of them were willing to take on the irate man with a gun and one said \u201cHe\u2019s in a small room on the first level, we ain\u2019t harmed him.\u201d<\/p>\n The men with Joe both knew him well and told him to go find his Pa they had things under control. Joe didn\u2019t need a second invitation and he hurried down into the mine. Normally he felt uncomfortable going below ground but this time all his concentration was on finding his father and he never gave it a thought. As soon as he reached the first level Joe called for his father. At first Ben thought he was imagining things but his youngest son\u2019s voice was so clear he decided he had nothing to lose by answering and he called \u201cJoe, Joe, I\u2019m in here.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe heard him and found the cell door but it was locked \u201cOkay Pa stand clear I\u2019m going to have to shoot out the lock. I didn\u2019t think to bring Hoss with me to break it down.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAlright Son go ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n It took two shots but then Joe was able to pull the door open and rushed into grab his father in a big hug \u201cPa are you alright?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m fine son, just rather annoyed at myself for putting more pressure on you three. How is Adam? They said he was beaten up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019ll be fine, now he can take the time to recover. Still been wandering round town.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0Joe pulled free \u201cCome on let\u2019s get back and you can see for yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut how did..\u201d Ben broke off, questions could wait, the only important one had been answered and he followed his son back to the surface. They helped the others herd their four prisoners down to the jail.<\/p>\n Adam had finally tuned into the German and cross-questioned Kessler in that language. He had been about to head up to the mine to get his father when Hoss said \u201cI think little brother has beaten you to it Adam\u201d and glancing out the window Adam saw his father and brother coming down the street.<\/p>\n Adam sunk down on the desk feeling suddenly weak but grinning broadly \u201cWell I think everything else can wait for morning why don\u2019t you lock this trio up Hoss I don\u2019t want to see their faces. Then we\u2019d better get Doc back to tend them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGonna be real crowded back there looks as though Joe has some prisoners too.\u201d Hoss commented as he herded the three through. Stevens’ saw who was being locked up and for the first time faced the fact that he was going to hang. He started screaming at Kessler for letting him die but Hoss just shut the door on them.<\/p>\n Hoss hurried through to greet his Pa and had to laugh at the self-satisfied expression on his little brother\u2019s face, but Adam just smiled at it, \u201cReal good job Joe. Thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben moved over to his eldest son and the two men studied each other for a moment both seeing signs of strain and pain. Then Ben moved to pull his eldest son closer and for a moment Adam lent into the hug, but then he pulled away all too aware of all the other men in the jail.<\/p>\n Adam relaxed very tired he left his brothers to explain what was going on, it was enough that his father was safe.<\/p>\n By the time all of them were up to date it was time for the hanging. Adam insisted that it was his responsibility and Clem would support him but he refused to let his family come with him. Adam had had the gallows set up in the back yard. He would carry out the sanction of the law but he wouldn\u2019t enjoy it and he wouldn\u2019t allow it to become a public spectacle. Clem had to almost carry Stevens out as he sunk to his knees and begged them not to kill him, soiling himself even before they got him to the gallows. Adam had to swallow hard to overcome the nausea but he helped Clem carry out the hanging standing watching impassively, until Stevens was dead. Then Clem patted him on the shoulder \u201cI can cope now. Time you went got some sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks Clem.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam went back into find Doc sipping coffee, he had just dealt with the injuries the three Germans had inflicted on each other and was waiting to check on Adam. As Adam appeared very pale, still feeling sick from the hanging, Doc put his cup down and went over to him. He said resignedly \u201cI can see you\u2019ve taken about as much notice of my advice as your younger brother does.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam tried to smile but with all that he could do completed, his bodily weakness was forcing itself on his consciousness. Doc turned to Hoss \u201cI think it\u2019s time you got your brother back to that bed in the hotel. I\u2019ll come with you and change his dressings.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe got to his feet and went over to his father \u201cReckon it\u2019s safe enough here now. I\u2019ll stay and give Clem a hand you go with Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben hesitated he could see that his young son looked very tired, but Joe grinned at him \u201cI\u2019ll swap with Hoss in a few hours Pa, be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded and headed over to the hotel with his sons. Adam was barely awake but he needed to talk to his father and he tried to tell Ben just how much support he had had from his brothers and how much it meant to him. Doc wasn\u2019t taking any nonsense and he expertly fed Adam some pain killer which put him out for the count. Ben looked very worried but Doc smiled reassuringly \u201cNothing that won\u2019t heal, but he\u2019s been overdoing things and I want to check his injuries and take my time over it. Make sure they are all healing, we don\u2019t want any infection.\u201d<\/p>\n Half an hour later Doc straightened up \u201cWell I\u2019m not sure he deserves it the way he\u2019s been pushing himself, but everything is healing fine. Let him have his sleep out and then get him home for some of Hop Sing\u2019s cooking. He\u2019s due to go east again, in what just over a fortnight?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben nodded \u201cFortnight on Friday.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI think for once he will take some fussing and given it he will be just about fit. For sure he\u2019ll be fitter than when he headed of last time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks Paul.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll come out the day after tomorrow and check him over for you but I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n When Joe swapped with his brother he was so tired he went out like a light and he was still sleeping when Adam woke up about four hours later. For the first time Adam was hungry as his stomach let him know how many meals he had missed but his first thought as he eased himself up was for his father and his brothers. Ben was sitting half dozing in a chair and Joe was curled up in the other bed, the blankets half on the floor as always. Adam rested on one elbow watching his little brother when Ben stirred. He considered his eldest son for a moment \u201cYou look very pleased with yourself Son.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell we have you back safe, Kessler is in jail, his power completely broken.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben raised his eyebrow questioningly knowing none of that explained the look on his son\u2019s face. Adam grinned knowing his father so well \u201cMy brothers have matured so much Pa. They gave me so much support. Don\u2019t tell them or I\u2019ll never live it down but they really are men to rely on.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben punched his eldest son gently \u201cThey have been for a while. Just takes you time to adjust to anything new.\u201d<\/p>\n A week later, trials had been held and all of their prisoners dispatched to the State Pen for varying lengths of time. Roy was back on his feet, if not on the job, and Clem was enjoying a fairly peaceful time in charge. Adam had accepted a couple of days of his family fussing and then reverted to normal much to their relief, but he did crave their company, as his return to his studies loomed large. Being laid up had given him the chance to complete all the assignments he had been asked for and he had already sent those back to Harvard. He had then concentrated on clearing as much paperwork as he could for his father and made sure that the books were completely accurate and up to date.<\/p>\n Ben consulted with his son before he arranged a party on the final Saturday before Adam headed east. This time Adam was pleased with the idea, a chance to say goodbye to a lot of old friends, but only a temporary goodbye because he would be back to see them the following summer. He would still have three days with his family before catching the stage early on Wednesday.<\/p>\n Adam thoroughly enjoyed the party and he was persuaded to get his guitar out and play a Spanish Flamenco and then give them a couple of songs. He had just firmly refused to do another song, when he saw his big brother push out of the door almost blindly. Adam could see that Hoss was upset and he excused himself and went out to look for his brother. He found Hoss over behind the barn, his shoulders slumped and his head in his hands. Adam moved swiftly over to him and gripped his arm \u201cDo you want to tell me about it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s your party. You should be in there having a good time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah and I\u2019m sure going to do that with you out here, with the weight of the world on your shoulders.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss straightened up a little \u201cI don\u2019t mean to spoil things.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou could never do that big brother but I think you need to talk. What suddenly upset you? You usually like me playing the guitar.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s the point Adam. You ain\u2019t bin here for the last two Christmases and you ain\u2019t gonna be here again this year. It just, it\u2019s not the same Adam, I sure miss you playing and singing those carols. Guess I suddenly realised that I would have to face another Christmas without it.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam sighed heavily, he had never had it brought home so clearly the cost there was for his family. He put his arm round his brother \u201cI only wish I could get home Hoss but it is only a ten day break and it takes longer than that to travel in one direction. I do miss all of you so much.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss straightened up \u201cI didn\u2019t mean for you to know.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCome on brother, we have never managed to keep secrets from each other. I can\u2019t change anything this year I won\u2019t be here but I give you my word that I will do all I can to make this the last Christmas I miss.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss turned and gripped his brother\u2019s arms staring into Adam\u2019s eyes as though he could read the truth there. \u201cYou really coming back to stay?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam smiled \u201cI can\u2019t predict the future Hoss and I won\u2019t make promises I can\u2019t keep. Ten years down the line I may need to go but at the moment all I want is to come back and settle back here, with all of you, on the land I love. I have seen so many of the things I have dreamt of for years, but somehow they aren\u2019t enough. This place is where I put down roots as a kid and I guess it still calls me home.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss grinned \u201cThat\u2019s good enough for me, brother. You reckon there\u2019s still any of that cherry pie left?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLet\u2019s go see big brother\u201d and linking arms the pair returned to the party. Ben and Joe had seen the same as Adam but when Joe had been prepared to follow his brothers, Ben had stopped him \u201cLeave it to Adam.\u201d They were both standing over by Ben\u2019s desk sipping punch when they saw the brothers come in and Joe grinned at his father \u201cI think I\u2019ll go claim a dance with Suzanna.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben relaxed whatever had been wrong with Hoss his eldest son seemed to have dealt with it and he joined his sons in dancing. The party went on late into the night and then Adam took his leave of everyone as they slowly headed back to town.<\/p>\n For once the Cartwrights were not going to church the following day. They had their own place where they would offer their prayers to God. Hop Sing made them up a picnic and after they had straightened up the house the four men headed up to the lake. For a while they just stood looking over at the view. Then Adam moved over behind his father and younger brother \u201cJust in case there\u2019s any confusion, I think I\u2019d better tell you two what I told Hoss last night. I don\u2019t know exactly what the future will bring and I won\u2019t make promises I\u2019m not sure I can keep but I will be back for the summer work and for the foreseeable future. I told Hoss I will miss all of you at Christmas this year and I don\u2019t intend that to happen again after this year.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe pulled away and turned round to face his brother \u201cYou really mean that Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t say things I don\u2019t mean little brother. Reckon I have had my fill of wandering for now.\u201d Adam grinned \u201cI\u2019ve found a grown up little brother back here and I guess I want to come home and work with him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy God, Adam in front of witnesses too.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam laughed but reached deftly for Joe\u2019s ribs just where he was most ticklish \u201cMaybe I should have said near grown.\u201d Ben stood back as his two sons wrestled like kids and soon drew Hoss in to join them.<\/p>\n Later after a meal, Joe went of to fish and Hoss dozed off leaving Adam with his father. Adam lazed back \u201cOkay Pa what\u2019s the matter?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat you said earlier.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t you want me home Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou know better than that. You\u2019ve always been my right hand man since we set out to walk west. I just don\u2019t want you staying because of some sense of obligation. You have given so much to this family to this ranch, but you must live your own life.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhen I left I half intended to build something somewhere else, my own Ponderosa if you like. You knew that, so did my brothers I think. That\u2019s why you were all so upset. I promised I would come back but I didn\u2019t promise to stay. Trouble is nowhere I went measured up to right here. I saw things I had dreamt about all my life and I enjoyed it but I missed you and my brothers. I think I know what I want now and I think I can only build it here. As I said I don\u2019t know if I\u2019ll feel different ten years down the line, but I can assure you this is no sense of obligation.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben moved over and gripped his eldest son\u2019s shoulder \u201cYou couldn\u2019t have said anything, which would have pleased me more.\u201d<\/p>\n The four of them sat up by the lake until sunset, enjoying each other\u2019s company and the view, building up some memories to carry then over the six months that Adam was going to be away. It was a day none of them would forget in a hurry and it proved sufficient on the Wednesday morning for them to take their leave of each other reasonably cheerfully. This time all three Cartwrights rode home together, confident that Adam would return from Boston in the spring, and their family would be complete again.<\/p>\n \n
\nThe Homecoming<\/a><\/span>
\nHome to Stay<\/a><\/span>
\nHoneymoon and Arguments<\/a><\/span>
\nJoe and Marie<\/a><\/span>
\nAdam and Carole<\/a><\/span>
\nA European Trip<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Aftermath<\/a><\/span>
\nA Busy Summer<\/a><\/span>
\nA Tree Falls<\/a><\/span>
\nSan Fracisco Trip<\/a><\/span>
\nA Stranger from the Past<\/a><\/span>
\nA Sense of Blame<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Medicine Man<\/a><\/span>
\nCourtship and Cattle Drives<\/a><\/span>
\nAngels with Red Hair?<\/a><\/span>
\nThieves and Murderers<\/a><\/span>
\nPipeline Problems<\/a><\/span>
\nGuests for Christmas<\/a><\/span>
\nA Turbulent Preacher<\/a><\/span>
\nJoe and Nita<\/a><\/span>
\nBen and Beth<\/a><\/span>
\nBanks, Pipelines, and Railroads<\/a><\/span>
\nLost<\/a><\/span>
\nA New Operation<\/a><\/span>
\nA Slow Recovery<\/a><\/span>
\nCelebrations<\/a><\/span>
\nForest Fire<\/a><\/span>
\nA Premature Birth<\/a>
\n<\/span>The Bank of California<\/a>
\nTrail Drive<\/a><\/span>
\nRobbery and Assault<\/a><\/span>
\nVirginia City on Fire<\/a><\/span>
\nRebuilding Virginia City<\/a><\/span>
\nCatching Up<\/a><\/span>
\nChristenings, Commissions, and Christmas<\/a><\/span>
\nWinter Ills<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Lawyer #2 \u2013 Advance Warning<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Lawyer #3 – Family Row #1<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Lawyer #4 \u2013 Family Row #2<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Lawyer #5 \u2013 Family Row #3<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Lawyer #6 \u2013 The Spanish Land Grant #1<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Lawyer #7 \u2013 The Spanish Land Grant #2 – Court Hearing<\/a><\/span>
\nThe Lawyer #8 \u2013 The Spanish Land Grant #3 – Knight Errant<\/a>
\nThe Lawyer #9 – The Spanish Land Grant #4 – The Long Journey Home<\/a>
\nThe Lawyer #10 – The Spanish Land Grant #5 – Troy’s Last Stand<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n