{"id":63291,"date":"2007-04-13T18:22:59","date_gmt":"2007-04-13T22:22:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=63291"},"modified":"2026-03-18T07:37:13","modified_gmt":"2026-03-18T11:37:13","slug":"cartwright-saga-36-christenings-commissions-and-christmas-by-lyn-robinson","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=63291","title":{"rendered":"Cartwright Saga #36 – Christenings, Commissions, and Christmas (by Lyn Robinson)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/b> The Cartwrights celebrate their luck with their close friends, despite some embarrassment.<\/span>
\nRating: PG\u00a0 \u00a0(26,300 words)
\n<\/p>\n

\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

\n

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

The Cartwright Saga Series:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The Lawyer <\/a><\/span>
\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

\n

Christenings, Commissions, and Christmas<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took his son into the kitchen to show Hop Sing, Kam Su and Pak Tsien, all of whom were delighted by the newest Cartwright. Once Hop Sing had had his turn of holding the baby, he returned to his job of preparing a tray for Nita, while Joe asked Kam Su for some scones.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita was settled back in the bedroom she and Joe had been using, her face washed, hair brushed and sitting up, propped up by pillows. She insisted on holding her son for a few minutes but then she was content to let Joe hold the baby while she ate. Joe sipped coffee, looking from his wife to his child. Not wanting food yet, he was savouring the end of his nightmare, it was still only 2.45 in the afternoon and now it was over Joe could be realistic. Nita had had a very easy labour, as Doc had put it Nita was born to breed and Joe was sure that he would never be so terrified again. There would inevitably be odd moments of near panic but not the long nightmare of the last months. Joe said his thanks to Doc and accepted his congratulations but it was all like a dream and he wasn\u2019t really aware of anything apart from his wife and child. He didn\u2019t even think of telling Doc to give a message to Dan, or get a telegram of to Will, but Ben rectified that omission when Doc queried it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was relaxed, but feeling tired, although he barely noticed it so very content with his wife and child. It still seemed like a dream and he couldn\u2019t believe he wouldn\u2019t wake up if he took his eyes off them both. Nita was too thrilled to be tired yet and as soon as she had finished her food she took the baby and tried rather clumsily to put him to her breast, but it wasn\u2019t as easy as it looked and the baby didn\u2019t cooperate. She was close to tears, with things going wrong and Joe bent over and kissed her, \u201cRelax my love. I know Carole had a row with herself at first. I\u2019ll fetch her or Sue to give you a hand. It\u2019s just a knack.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita felt as though she was failing her baby the first time she was tested but Joe went to the door and called for Carole and Sue. Then he went back to the bed and sitting on it put his arm round Nita and reassured her that it didn\u2019t matter. Carole and Sue had hurried up but Joe\u2019s grin reassured them and it didn\u2019t take him a minute to explain the problem. Sue wasn\u2019t surprised and despite only having fed Johnny for a week she was better able to help than Carole after years of nursing. Joe slipped out while they helped her and went over to wash his face, try to get some sense of reality, it still all seemed like a dream.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben joined him as he dried off, \u201cAre you alright Joseph?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned, not surprised to see his father, \u201cI think so Pa. Just find it hard to believe it\u2019s over, sort of scared I\u2019ll wake up and find it\u2019s just a dream.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo dream Little Joe, or rather one that you will live for many years. You have a beautiful son.\u201d Ben squeezed his son\u2019s shoulder, \u201cMaybe we ought to stop calling you Little Joe now you\u2019re a father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled, \u201cYou\u2019ll never do that Pa, neither you nor my brothers and I wouldn\u2019t want you to. Few outsiders do now and even you don\u2019t use it much outside the family, not when strangers are around, but it would feel very odd if I didn\u2019t hear it at home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben was rather pleased by his son\u2019s reaction, Joe might be a father but he was still his youngest son and it didn\u2019t seem so very long since he was a baby himself. Joe was right, it would be virtually impossible to break himself of a habit built over nearly thirty years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt a little better for a wash and went back to Nita, who was delightedly nursing the baby. Her son had rapidly caught on once Sue had shown Nita how and he was sucking strongly. Then Nita managed to transfer him to the other breast where, after a momentary hesitation, her son began suckling vigorously. Nita grinned delightedly and Sue got to her feet, \u201cOnly a couple of minutes each side for now or you\u2019ll be very sore and you ought to get some sleep soon, you must be tired.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou will be when you come down from the heights a bit. Try and get a nap this afternoon, the baby will sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita didn\u2019t look convinced and for the moment he was certainly showing no signs of sleeping, but as she took him off her breast he hiccuped. Nita looked up at Joe in sudden fear but Joe just grinned. \u201cIt\u2019s alright, regular for our brats; one of the twins did it just after he was born. Just hiccups.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took the baby, giving Nita some more coffee, \u201cSue is right, you ought to rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m too excited darling. Anyway now he\u2019s here and you can see him, what about choosing a name.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed \u201cI thought it might help but I\u2019m still blank. Have you got any ideas?\u201d<\/p>\n

Nita hesitated, she knew what she would like to call her baby but she wasn\u2019t sure of Joe\u2019s reaction. Joe frowned, not really knowing what her expression meant, \u201cOut with it Nita. I\u2019m open to suggestion, although I warn you if you\u2019re thinking of something like Lancelot or Galahad, I\u2019ll impose a veto!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita giggled at that and leant against him, \u201cYou\u2019ve none of you really used family names, have you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged, \u201cDavid and Mark have Benjamin and Joseph as second names and my Uncle, Will\u2019s father, was John. What are you thinking, I\u2019m not too keen on Joseph Jnr.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t thinking of that, I love you but Joseph is not my favourite name.\u201d Nita hesitated but Joe had got the drift, \u201cHe is our first born.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita smiled, \u201cI always loved the name Adam and this last year it\u2019s come to mean so much more. I was such a total bitch to him and yet he\u2019s taken me so much into the family. They all have, I couldn\u2019t believe they could all be so very special. I knew you were, and one seemed a miracle, but\u2026. What do you think and how would your brother feel?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned as he considered her suggestion, he hadn\u2019t expected it and Nita put her hand on his arm, \u201cI\u2019d like to call the baby Adam Benjamin, but he\u2019s your son too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe was very moved that his wife wanted to call her firstborn after his family, knowing how much it had meant to him when Adam named his daughter after Marie and in itself the name was attractive for his firstborn. His only hesitation was over the inevitable occasional problem with two people of the same name living in close proximity. Thinking about it and given the difference in age and that they would be living in different houses; Joe didn\u2019t think it would be too big a problem and certainly didn\u2019t outweigh the attractions of the idea. Nita sat watching the various feelings flitting across Joe\u2019s face as he got used to the novel idea. Then he smiled broadly, looking down at the baby, \u201cAdam Benjamin, I really like it darling. I don\u2019t think I would have thought of it, but now it seems obvious.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure darling? I don\u2019t want to force it on you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure sweetheart, but it was your idea, would you like to tell them yourself?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita hesitated but then she nodded, \u201cYes I would.\u201d Part of the reason she wanted to name her baby after her father and brother-in-law was to say thank you for taking her into their family and changing her life; maybe she could explain just a little. She could only use two names and while Adam was perhaps the most special, after the way she had treated him to begin with, every member of the family had given her the love she had never known from her own blood relatives. She tried to get her thoughts in order and then knowing that if she delayed she would just get nervous, she asked Joe to go and fetch everyone. Joe hesitated not wanting to put any strain on her when she was inevitably tired and emotional. \u201cI can tell them my love, you don\u2019t have to do it. I can explain.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo I want to do it, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFair enough.\u201d Joe kissed her, \u201cRelax sweetheart. I\u2019ll fetch them all.\u201d and he passed his son back to her while he headed downstairs where all his family were gathered. Ben looked up as he heard Joe on the stairs, the other four were by the fire with Anne and Johnny, no work was even being attempted. Joe smiled at his father, \u201cNita would like to see you all for a few minutes and then maybe I can persuade her to have a nap.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone followed him upstairs without question, for now whatever Nita wanted was top priority and they gathered around her bed. Joe had taken up his position on the bed, his arm round his wife who was cuddling their newborn child, but for the moment he wasn\u2019t looking at her. Instead, rather to his family\u2019s surprise, Joe was intently studying his eldest brother. Adam frowned not understanding but Carole looked from Nita and Joe to her husband and made a shrewd guess what was coming.<\/p>\n

She hoped that she was right, knowing just how much it would mean to Adam. She was the only one to have any idea as Nita nervously cleared her throat. Joe squeezed her shoulder gently and she smiled up at him, before continuing, \u201cJoe was useless, no ideas in naming our son and he left it to me, although I think he approves of my choice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery much.\u201d Joe broke in.<\/p>\n

Nita relaxed, \u201cThis last year I\u2019ve had more happiness than I ever dreamt existed, a lot of it was thanks to Joe, but all of you, everyone despite severe provocation, welcomed me to the family. A closeness that I couldn\u2019t believe at first. There\u2019s no way I can ever thank you all, you have changed my life, made everything worth while. I want my son to grow up a true Cartwright, as happy as we all are. It can only be a token and it\u2019s a name I\u2019ve always loved anyway but in every way it seemed appropriate, I\u2019ve called him Adam Benjamin. I do hope you don\u2019t mind Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stared at her in disbelief, the others had all seen it coming as she spoke, but he was taken completely by surprise, \u201cMind.\u201d He said disbelievingly and then bit his lip unable to say more, so very moved that his sister wanted to name her firstborn after him and he blinked hard as tears threatened. Then rubbing his hand across his mouth, he turned away to the window. Nita looked up at Joe but he smiled reassuringly and then went over to his brother while Ben and Hoss both told her what a lovely idea it was. Although each in his own way tried to say that there was no need to say thanks, anything that they had given her had been more than repaid. Carole just gave her a big hug, \u201cIt\u2019s a gorgeous idea, means a lot to him. Thank you Nita.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had gripped Adam\u2019s arm as his brother struggled to retain his control, \u201cYou sure you don\u2019t mind Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t answer but Joe read the answer on his brother\u2019s face, it meant as much to Adam as the naming of Marie had meant to him. A gesture, an acceptance of him, of all of them and all they stood for, which would always be present. Just as Joe shared in his son with a very special relationship with Mark, so Adam would with his namesake, his brother\u2019s firstborn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben suggested that the rest of them leave Joe and Nita in peace with their new son but Adam didn\u2019t even take in their departure. He had won control of himself, it was unfair to get too emotional with Nita, she was inevitably over excited, walking an emotional tightrope. Adam surreptitiously wiped his eyes while Joe hovered anxiously and then turned and went over to the bed. He took Joe\u2019s position actually on the bed and put his arm round Nita, before leaning forward slightly to move the shawl back from the baby\u2019s head. \u201cI just hope I don\u2019t get the blame for his escapades with Joe as his father.\u201d He kissed Nita\u2019s forehead, \u201cI hope you have some idea just how much this means to me, to all of us. I thank God Joe brought such a very precious and beautiful girl into our family.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t mind another Adam in the family? It might cause a few problems.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll sort them out without recourse to use of junior. Of course I don\u2019t mind, I\u2019m delighted.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita kissed him \u201cI just hope my son grows up to be half the man you are Adam. If he does he\u2019ll be someone very special.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To Joe\u2019s amusement his brother blushed hotly but he endorsed his wife\u2019s opinion. Adam lent over and kissed the baby\u2019s head, \u201cHe\u2019ll be special Nita, with you and Joe as parents he can\u2019t fail to be. I tried to tell you about my little brother once before, young Adam only has to take after his father.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was Joe\u2019s turn to blush as Adam got to his feet, \u201cIt\u2019s time you let Joe put young Adam in his cradle and you followed his example. Have a nap before dinner Nita, wouldn\u2019t do you any harm either Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita couldn\u2019t help yawning but Joe didn\u2019t bother to answer and Adam simply said, \u201cWe\u2019ll be downstairs if you want anything Joe.\u201d before heading out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe got Nita settled as comfortably as he could and tucked the baby up in his cradle before sitting down where he could see both of them, at peace with the whole world. Later he sensed that he might experience some reaction from the tension he\u2019d felt during the birth, the longest three and a half hours he had ever known, but for now he had all he\u2019d ever wanted and all he had to do was learn to believe it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Downstairs Adam had gone straight into the study and poured himself a brandy. Carole followed him in, she was sure that he was pleased although Ben and Hoss had both wondered if he might have mixed feelings about the choice. They all knew he would be delighted by the reasons Nita had given, but unsure about having two Adams. Carole didn\u2019t think the minor problems of the same name would worry anyone. Joe and Nita lived in their own house and nearly always it would be obvious which Adam was meant. After all many families managed easily with the eldest son named after the father, she was used to it having grown up with the habit in New England. She was delighted Nita had waned to do it, liking the compliment to her husband. Adam was sipping his brandy staring at the painting of the lake as Carole came in, he put his arm round her, \u201cI don\u2019t deserve it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNita and Joe think you do and I agree with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe seemed pleased but it was Nita\u2019s idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know darling, both your brothers\u2019 wives have become very close to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll three. Joe\u2019s remarkable isn\u2019t he? Two girls both so unlikely in their own ways and yet such good wives and marvelous sisters. I didn\u2019t think for a while that I\u2019d ever be as close to Nita as I was to Marie, but she\u2019s just as special, a part of our family now and thankfully for much longer. He\u2019s a lovely baby.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s luck is in this time and noone deserves it more.\u201d Carole grinned broadly, very fond of her youngest brother-in-law. \u201cI think he\u2019s going to look more like Mark than David does.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged, \u201cMark always took after Joe but I suspect he\u2019s going to be bigger than either Joe or young Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTime will tell.\u201d Carole said, \u201cYou haven\u2019t eaten anything all day, you want anything?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head, \u201cNo I\u2019m fine darling, a little overemotional maybe but that\u2019s a. I\u2019ll wait for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole left him in peace and tried to reassure Hoss and Sue but Ben went into his son. Adam looked up, \u201cBrandy Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good. What do you think of Nita\u2019s choice of names?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI like it; in fact I\u2019m delighted and very touched as you must have noticed. Nearly disgraced myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHardly.\u201d Ben said, \u201cMore of a surprise to you than to the rest of us, it was obviously coming.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell I\u2019d missed it completely. What about you Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I like it, always been a favourite name of mine. \u201cBen smiled at his eldest son, \u201cCarole says we\u2019ll soon get used to having two of you around. Just a surprise but a very sweet idea, she\u2019s quite a girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe seemed pleased.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was in fact, everything seems right to Joe just now but he\u2019s going to have some sort of reaction sooner or later.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know or I\u2019d have gone for a ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss and I can cope you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t doubt it Pa but I couldn\u2019t settle. In fact I think I\u2019ll get on with the precedents we need for the writ. I\u2019m restless I\u2019d rather work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Unlike the hours while he awaited the birth of his child, the time Joe spent sitting by Nita as she slept flew past. He studied his son\u2019s face until it was fixed in his mind and just occasionally remembered the face of Marie\u2019s child and his beautiful first wife who had been so surprisingly peaceful in death. Joe was totally at peace, it felt as though Marie was telling him that she was pleased, what she had always wanted<\/p>\n

for the man she loved. Joe had the painting of the view down to the promontory and he spent long minutes staring at it, both his wives and his child so clear in his mind\u2019s eye he had no need to look at them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita woke up after a couple of hours but for a minute Joe wasn\u2019t aware of her, intently watching his son, a gentle smile on his face, a serenity she had never seen before, complete peace. Nita savoured his expression, knowing their child meant as much to Joe as he did to her. She was relaxed just watching Joe when Adam very quietly peeked in to see who was awake, as it was dinnertime. Joe looked up at that and realized his wife was awake but for a minute the expression on his face didn\u2019t change and Adam knew that he would never forget it or the love on Nita\u2019s face as she looked at her husband. He said very softly, \u201cThe peace that defies man\u2019s understanding.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe smiled more broadly, \u201cNow I know just why I was envious of you and Hoss. You said it Adam, no feeling in the world quite like that of holding your firstborn.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam smiled, \u201cI don\u2019t often say I told you so but we all did, mother and child fit and well and very beautiful. However you can\u2019t live on pride Joe so I\u2019ve been sent up by Kam Su and Hop Sing. They want your order for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita was hungry again and even Joe thought he could manage a steak, so Adam took their orders down and with Hoss\u2019 help brought up trays before the elder brothers went for their own food. Adam still wasn\u2019t hungry and only picked at his food and upstairs Joe didn\u2019t do much better, he did manage most of the meat but left the rest. Nita cleared her plate and then with Sue and Joe\u2019s help she soaked in a salt bath which eased some of the soreness before curling up in bed. Tired out she was asleep almost instantly and the baby was sleeping peacefully too. Joe was pacing up and down, wishing he hadn\u2019t eaten anything as it had just made him feel sick. He was scared of disturbing Nita or the baby and so he went downstairs, \u201cI think Nita will probably sleep until morning. Pa, Carole will you look after her and my son. If they need anything. I want to get some fresh air.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded, \u201cOf course Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked over at Hoss who was cuddling Johnny; Sue had just finished feeding him. Joe wouldn\u2019t take his brother away from his wife and child but he had no hesitation in asking Adam to come with him. To his surprise Hoss passed the baby over to his father, \u201cThink I could do with some air too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hesitated, \u201cYou don\u2019t have to Hoss, you can stay with Sue and Johnny, I\u2019m alright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know I don\u2019t have to little brother but I\u2019d like to unless \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe broke in \u201cOh I want you if you feel like that.\u201d Both his brothers had seen the growing tension in Joe over the last few minutes. They had been expecting it and were confident that they could help, but they needed to get Joe away from so many people in order to persuade him to talk. There was a thin layer of snow on the ground so all of them put on their thick leather coats and scarves before going out to saddle up. They worked basically in silence although Joe did ask where his nephews were. Adam grinned, \u201cFast asleep, another new baby wasn\u2019t nearly as exciting as a picnic in the bunkhouse. Jess and the others thoroughly overfed them and succeeded in wearing them out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood for Jess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, even took Marie. He was very apologetic for taking them without asking, until I got at him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swung up on Cochise, \u201cLet\u2019s go to the Lake.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere else.\u201d Hoss commented and the three brothers moved smoothly up to the Lake, the elder brothers one either side of Joe, who was lost in thought. Joe dismounted and tying Cochise up he walked over to his wife\u2019s grave, but for once he didn\u2019t kneel to pray, he was too confused. Adam and Hoss waited a little way back but as they watched, Joe began to shudder and without discussion they moved closer.<\/p>\n

Adam put his arm round his brother\u2019s shoulders but Joe, fighting for control, didn\u2019t even hear his brothers encouraging him to let go. Joe felt thoroughly confused and guilty, as though his delight in his son was in some way disloyal to Marie. He wasn\u2019t aware of his brothers, nor the fact that he was speaking aloud, albeit in broken disjointed phrases. Adam and Hoss met each other\u2019s gaze in growing concern as they realized in near disbelief what Joe was thinking. Joe said, \u201cIf only; but then; my son; oh God.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss frowned, \u201cHe can\u2019t be serious Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust not thinking straight, it\u2019s been a strain. Come on Hoss, let\u2019s get him away from here for a start.\u201d Slowly Adam cajoled and led Joe away from the grave up to the point.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At least Joe seemed aware of their presence although he was still trembling uncontrollably. Adam eased him down into his normal spot and then said, \u201cYou have to talk little brother or you\u2019re going to make yourself ill.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t.\u201d Joe shut his eyes not wanting even Adam to see the state he was in. Adam settled himself next to his brother and put his arm round his brother\u2019s shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright Joe I\u2019ll talk, you listen, tell me if I\u2019ve got it wrong.\u201d Joe frowned but made no attempt to stop his brother. Adam said, \u201cYou\u2019re feeling guilty because you have a son whose birth means so much to you. Guilty because if Doc had succeeded in saving Marie\u2019s life you would never have had children of your own.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded slowly, \u201cSomething like that, almost as though I\u2019m happy because she\u2019s dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss moved convulsively to protest, \u201cIt ain\u2019t like that Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled, \u201cHoss is right. I was there Joe when Doc asked you to choose mother or child. So very hard but you said, \u2018I don\u2019t care about children I love and need my wife.\u2019 Don\u2019t you think we know you, little brother? You loved Marie so much, if Doc had pulled off a miracle and saved her life you\u2019d never have given another woman a thought. You may have your faults but disloyalty isn\u2019t one of them. Maybe over the years as you settled into being a doting Uncle there might have been momentary pangs, thoughts of what might have been if only she\u2019d been stronger, but then you\u2019d have looked at your wife and thanked God for his mercy in giving you her life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned looking from Adam to Hoss and back, \u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gripped his arm, \u201cAdam\u2019s right, you couldn\u2019t have done nothing else, it ain\u2019t in you. If anyone ever earnt a son you did\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at him blankly, \u201cI don\u2019t understand Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss knew exactly what he meant but he couldn\u2019t put it into words and looked to Adam for help, \u201cYou explain Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam smiled faintly and then slowly he said, \u201cHoss and I had to stand by and watch when Marie died. There was no way to help and I know he felt as helpless as I did and Pa. You moaned at us enough over the years Joe but even when you were a widower you were still our little brother. For years we\u2019d tried, often ineffectively, to protect you, extricate you from whatever trouble you landed in; try to stop you being hurt or at least be there to cheer you on or sometimes even take revenge. Now you were hurt a lot worse than any bullet or the worst beating and there was nothing we could do, not even anyone to blame. You were very good but maybe we just knew you too well and we both knew just how hard it was for so long. You didn\u2019t really need to cajole me to take over the flumes so you could go to the dance in town. I was so pleased to see you taking an interest beginning to enjoy yourself again, but even two years on when you met Nita you fought against it. A long time Joe, a lot of pain and misery. Hoss and I were very lucky; we both met, fell in love and had children by our first wives. Hoss is right you\u2019ve earned your son in long painful hours of grief. Anyway you know it\u2019s what Marie wanted for you, even when she was dying she found the strength to ask me to tell you that, someone to bear you the children that she couldn\u2019t. She didn\u2019t mind sharing your love, she knew you had enough for everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss broke in \u201cAnd she approves of Nita, you know that Joe. Remember what you told me, she stood on the stairs on your wedding day and passed you over to Nita.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced up at Hoss in some surprise at that comment, but he could find out later, for now the only important thing was to help Joe. Joe wasn\u2019t really capable of sensible thought, the day\u2019s events had drained him, the labour short in terms of hours had felt like an eternity and he was beginning to pay the penalty. He shook his head slowly, \u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled, \u201cTry trusting us Joe, we do know, it\u2019s alright. Marie will be happy that you have found joy. She loves you too much to begrudge you a moment\u2019s happiness, you know that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned and thought about that, maybe Adam was right and his guilt really an insult to Marie, to the loving and giving girl who had always put him first. In an odd way that just made him feel worse and his head was aching so badly, he didn\u2019t know what to do. He buried his face in his hands, shivering violently. Adam met Hoss eye, they didn\u2019t seem to be doing much good, Hoss shrugged, \u201cBeen a strain, he needs to break down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cObstinate as ever.\u201d Adam said fondly, \u201cCome on Joe, try and relax. Take it easy old son, what you need is a long sleep and as you\u2019ve told me on occasion you\u2019re not going to get it until you\u2019ve relaxed, got it out of your system.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m alright.\u201d Joe insisted in a rather muffled voice and Hoss moved closer to him, \u201cLiar little brother. Come on let it go, only us here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Whether it was the compassion in Hoss\u2019 voice or the close contact of both his brothers, something gave. Joe choked back a sob but at Adam\u2019s gentle advice not to fight it, he gave way and burying his face against Adam\u2019s shoulder, he sobbed out the strain and tensions of the day, indeed of the last months. Hoss stood close by them gripping his shoulders and protecting his little brother from the icy wind. Both Adam and Hoss were relieved to see him give way, knowing that it was what he needed above all else. Follow that with a good night\u2019s sleep and Joe would be fit to face the future and enjoy his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was nearly half an hour later before Joe lifted his head and accepted the damp bandana that Hoss passed him. \u201cI don\u2019t know why.\u201d He said apologetically, \u201cEverything\u2019s fine, even an easy labour and yet \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned, \u201cStop apologizing Joe, you\u2019ve been under a strain, after all you nearly fainted this morning. Best thing you could have done, ease the tension, it was what we wanted.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded, \u201cOf course. Now you need a good night\u2019s sleep, Adam and I will look after your son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy namesake.\u201d Adam said with a note of disbelief and delight in his voice. Joe felt weak now he\u2019d relaxed and was glad of Hoss\u2019 warm support back to the horses, thoroughly cold, but there was one thing he had to do before leaving the lake. He pulled away from Hoss to go and kneel by Marie\u2019s grave. Wordlessly he apologized for doubting the depths of her generosity and thanked her for her help and support and god for his mercy. His brothers left him alone, seeing peace return to him, obvious in his whole stance. Joe could see her as close as she\u2019d ever been, see her with his child, seeming to watch protectively over him and her words sounded in his mind. \u201cYour son will be as fine a man as his namesake, for your sake I\u2019ll watch over him, so you need never fear. Be happy my love.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe knelt there, the half smile on his face reminding both his brothers of the way he\u2019d watched Marie so often in those few short months, the first time they\u2019d ever known him sit so still. They both grinned, glad to see him at peace but Joe felt so weak and exhausted that he had to ask Hoss for help to get to his feet and over to Cochise. Once mounted he turned to look at the Lake, very beautiful and peaceful in the moonlight and then at his brothers and slowly relaxing in the saddle he said, \u201cI don\u2019t think any man really deserves to be as lucky as we all are.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His brothers weren\u2019t arguing with that but Adam said, \u201cAll we can do is to try, where we can, to share just a little of it with others.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was the creed Ben had bred in them and agreeing without comment, they headed home. Hoss volunteered to take care of the horses, telling Adam to get Joe into the fire to warm up. Only Ben was still up as the brothers came in and he noticed the ravages of emotion on his youngest son\u2019s face, but he could also see how much more relaxed Joe was and that was all that mattered. Smiling broadly he offered his sons coffee and brandy. Joe standing by the fire, warming his hands, just wanted a brandy and then his bed, so tired he could hardly keep his eyes open. He answered his father almost at random as he stared in wonderment at his son lying so peacefully in his cradle by Ben\u2019s chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben went over to pour out coffee as Adam got the brandies and asked quietly, \u201cAlright?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine now Pa, just needs some sleep.\u201d Adam passed Joe a brandy, \u201cGet that down you and then bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded, \u201cI think I\u2019ll sleep now.\u201d He yawned widely and Ben grinned, \u201cWell I should hurry up or you\u2019ll be asleep before you can even get to bed. Come on I\u2019ll give you a hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Joe were just disappearing upstairs as Hoss came in. Ben took his son to a spare room where he had asked Hop Sing to heat the bed ready for Joe, guessing his son would be exhausted and cold.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss went in to join Adam and hovered near the cradle, \u201cJoe will be fine now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, inevitable that there was some reaction. What was that about his wedding day, or is it private?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t reckon he\u2019d mind you knowing.\u201d Hoss went and got himself some coffee before he carried on, then leaning on the mantelpiece, staring up at the painting of the lake, he told Adam what Joe had told him and why. Adam wasn\u2019t particularly surprised, as best man he had been very close to his brother and had known the tensions, the odd changes in mood, sensed Joe\u2019s memories. Adam thought about it for a minute and then smiled, \u201cOur little brother was very lucky with both his wives.\u201d He wandered over to the cradle and very gently touched the sleeping baby\u2019s curly hair. \u201cI don\u2019t deserve it. Adam.\u201d he shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was very serious, \u201cI think you do, just like Joe and Nita said. Deserve it a hundred times over.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cToo many things to say, over too many years. All the things we take for granted, Joe and me, never really say thank you. And more recent the way you accepted Nita, even argued me into accepting her. You were right as usual, she\u2019s quite a girl and she makes Joe happy but there ain\u2019t many men who\u2019d have forgiven and forgotten all that bitchiness when she first arrived.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt didn\u2019t mean anything.\u201d Adam protested, \u201cShe was just on edge, not understanding us and having met her family, can you wonder at it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe, it still takes a big man to forget.\u201d Hoss frowned and went to refill his glass. \u201cWhile I\u2019m at it Adam I\u2019d like to say something that maybe has needed saying for too long. Easier not to sometimes in case it gets embarrassing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at his big brother in bewilderment, not at all sure what Hoss was on about and Hoss meeting his eye grinned, \u201cVery simple really Adam. The other day you said as a joke that you\u2019d brought Joe and me up to have good taste. It\u2019s not so far from the truth. You, in some ways even more than Pa, and maybe it\u2019s only now with the prospect of bringing up my own son, that I can see how much we both owe you. You must have cursed your younger brothers at times, always underfoot, but you taught us more than I can ever say. I guess what I\u2019m trying to say Adam is thank you and I know Joe feels the same, it jest don\u2019t seem enough after all we owe you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood stunned and speechless, he was very moved by his brother\u2019s comment and that he had felt strongly enough to put it into words. For Hoss to talk about owing him seemed so untrue, anything he had done had been repaid ten times over in the friendship and help his brothers had given him since they were grown. For once in his life Adam just couldn\u2019t find any words at all and he gave up the attempt just going over to his brother and hugging him for a moment. He broke away and poured himself another brandy, \u201cI don\u2019t know what to say Hoss, I \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo need to say anything. Jest fer once I wanted to say thank you and Sue and I have one other request for you, if you\u2019ll do it?\u201d Adam looked up questioningly and Hoss grinned, \u201cWill you be godfather for Johnny? We want you, Joe and Carole if she will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know I will brother, with great pleasure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine, have to see if we can get this young man christened at the same time, rather nice way to celebrate Christmas Eve.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. Why don\u2019t you get to bed Hoss, you look whacked. I\u2019ll look after my namesake; I\u2019ve got some thinking to do anyway before I\u2019ll sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou okay Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course big brother, why not? I\u2019ve been paid some of the biggest compliments any man could ever have, I guess I want to savour them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do that, they\u2019ve all been earnt.\u201d Hoss put his glass down. \u201cI\u2019ll leave you to blush in peace Adam, call me when you\u2019re ready to settle I\u2019ll take a turn with my nephew. Guess I wanted his arrival as much as Johnny\u2019s, our little brother deserved him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and watched Hoss go out. For a long time he stood staring down at the baby, remembering so many things over the years, tragedy and joy, but never had the whole family known such fulfillment as they did now with young Adam\u2019s birth, each and every one of them. In their joy they seemed to have grown even closer together. In the future, as in the past, there would inevitably be rows, but Adam was more confident than ever that whatever happened it would never affect the deep bonds of love between each member of the family and all the others, the girls included, although he\u2019d never had much doubt. He felt warm and very much at peace at the reactions of his brothers and Nita\u2019s gesture and he\u2019d never felt further from sleep so he didn\u2019t bother waking Hoss, lost in very happy memories of the past.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the baby stirred, Adam walked him around talking to his nephew, dreams of the future for the whole family, thirteen of them now with doubtless more to come, but although it was supposed to be an unlucky number, Adam couldn\u2019t believe it. This little baby would have all they could give him and they were fortunate to have so much to give. Anyway in many ways Marie was still part of their family, alive in their memories, as in a rather more shadowy man way for all but Ben, were that other Marie, Joe\u2019s mother, Inger and his own mother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The baby wasn\u2019t particularly hungry and seemed quite content to listen to Adam talking softly, rocked in his arms as Adam planned the future, speculating to the uncomprehending infant as he wouldn\u2019t have dared to do, even to Carole. He was very content, so wrapped up in the baby and his vision of the future that he didn\u2019t even notice his father come in, unaware of the time passing so fast, he had no idea it was dawn. Ben stood watching his eldest son for a minute, savouring the expression on Adam\u2019s face, then as his son noticed him he asked, \u201cHave you been up all night?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose so. I hadn\u2019t noticed it was so late, or is it early?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve been missing a lot of sleep recently.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine Pa, never needed that much.\u201d Certainly Adam didn\u2019t look or feel particularly tired, but Ben couldn\u2019t help worrying, still unsure that Adam had fully recovered from his bad injuries and knowing just how little notice his son took of his physical condition. Ben went and fetched coffee and as Adam sat down with it, still rocking the baby, Ben asked, \u201cIs anything wrong Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t usually stay up all night unless you\u2019re troubled and I\u2019m sure that Hoss offered to do his share.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course he did. No Pa, nothing\u2019s wrong. I just had some thinking to do. I think I was paid two of the greatest compliments any man ever had yesterday; the only equivalent was Carole’s promise to marry me. Guess I wanted to have time to think, to believe them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole had heard that comment as she came in with Anne and she kissed Adam before slipping into the chair next to him, \u201cYou said two darling, I know how you feel about Nita and Joe naming the baby, but what else happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was equally curious but Adam was embarrassed even with his wife and father and he bent his head down over the baby. \u201cMy brothers were determined to get me embarrassed, when we got back from the Lake, Hoss \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was lost in memories of just what his brother had said and oblivious of them until Ben asked gently, \u201cWhat did Hoss do?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRidiculous really, when they\u2019ve both done so much, such good friends.\u201d Adam looked up and met his father\u2019s eye. \u201cHoss said that it was only now he was faced with bringing up his own son that he realized how much he and Joe owed me and he reckoned it was time to say thank you. They don\u2019t owe me anything Pa, in so many ways I owe them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were remarkably good with them as a youngster, I know I put a lot of responsibility on you. So many people spoke to me about it, just how well you handled the boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI only tried to help them as you helped me. It was really all your doing Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHowever we worked it, it all seemed to work very well for us, probably doesn\u2019t make any sense to talk about owing each other but I\u2019m glad your brother wanted to thank you, I reckon you earned it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam blushed hotly and more to distract him than for any other reason, Carole asked \u201cWas Joe alright last night? He was getting tense again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned, \u201cHe was tired and confused, feeling guilty for being so delighted by the birth of his son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGuilty?\u201d Carole queried puzzled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled, \u201cSo that was it. I did wonder. You ought to be used to my sons\u2019 ability to take the world on their shoulders Carole, blame themselves for things beyond their control. One trait of their elder brother that Hoss and Joe would have done well not to copy, becoming more marked in Joseph as he gets older.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI still don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery simple.\u201d Ben went on, \u201cIf Marie had lived, Joe would never have had a child of his own, now he has and knows what it means to him, he felt disloyal.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole looked horrified but seeing Adam nod, his father had read it exactly right, she said, \u201cThat\u2019s so unfair.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll my sons are their own harshest critics.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned, knowing that his father often disagreed with his own frustration in his failure to change the world, more realistic than his sons. \u201cIt\u2019s alright darling, tension as much as anything; he\u2019s been under a strain. We talked him round reminding him that it was what Marie had wanted. Good thing in some ways, he broke down, got it out of his system, which was what he really needed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was sleeping like a baby himself when I looked in,\u201d Ben agreed, \u201cand that\u2019s what he really needs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make a forecast.\u201dAdam grinned, \u201cOnce he\u2019s been fed and checked on Nita and the baby, my little brother will be in such an exuberant mood that this will prove to be a day we won\u2019t forget in a hurry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben wasn\u2019t arguing against the likelihood of that and suggested that Adam pass over his new grandson and go have a doze to prepare for the fray. Adam wasn\u2019t tired but he did take the chance to go and wash and change.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss were both down by the time he reappeared and Sue was feeding Johnny. Adam stood on the stair for a minute and considered his family. Carole had Marie and Anne on her lap, Sue with Johnny, while Joe held his son. The twins, not to be left out, had scrambled up, David onto his favourite Uncle\u2019s lap while Mark was sitting on his grandfather. Adam joined them, grinning broadly, \u201cHighly domestic scene, I can think of a few people who would find it hard to believe, the hard fighting Cartwrights!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed, \u201cGetting overrun with children, six of them all under five.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust wait until they grow up a bit Pa, if you think you\u2019ve got problems now. Maybe even double in numbers if my brothers are going to keep up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll run out of laps.\u201d Hoss complained but Joe giggled, \u201cNo problem brother, yours is big enough for all of them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thus the first sound Nita heard when she awoke was Joe\u2019s laughter peeling through the house, no edge of tension left in it. She called out and Joe went straight up to her with their son. Adam was, as so often, proved right, Joe was in a zany mood, so very pleased with himself and with everything in his world. He kept everyone smiling, his laughter sounding out frequently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Just once he got more serious for a short while and with the babies asleep in their cradles and Nita asleep, he asked his brothers to go for a walk with him. Joe had been talking to Nita while they had their lunch, Joe having his on a tray to be with her. She wanted a couple of things from their home and he headed there first. He wanted to get his brothers\u2019 opinions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For once he was hesitant in asking for what he wanted, not quite sure what his big brother wanted and knowing that Hoss always put himself last. In the end he decided to go at it sideways and asked Adam first, \u201cAdam the baby is named after you, seems only fitting for you to be his Godfather, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned, \u201cSure Joe, I\u2019d have been disappointed if you hadn\u2019t asked.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss said, \u201cReminds me I haven\u2019t got round to telling you Joe, you\u2019re elected to back Adam up as Godfather for Johnny. Reckon you\u2019re gonna have a busy day on Christmas Eve Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, I don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss in his turn looked slightly uncomfortable, \u201cI ain\u2019t pushing you little brother. If you want to give young Adam a day of his own that\u2019s fine. Jest seemed sorta nice, christenings on Christmas Eve, time for babies, thought we might make it a joint occasion.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face gave Hoss his answer before Joe said a word. As he realized what his brother was getting at his face lit up, Hoss wanted the same as he did. In his delight Joe swung his big brother round, \u201cI was going to ask you Hoss, just wasn\u2019t sure how you\u2019d feel. Seems so right especially with Will and Laura here too and as you say a day for babies.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned, \u201cThat\u2019s great Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe gripped his big brother\u2019s arm, \u201cOne more thing. Nita insists. She could only give the baby two names and anyway noone else could live up to \u2018Hoss\u2019 as a name but she wants you as the baby\u2019s second godfather and so do I. Not just because you\u2019ve co-opted me for Johnny.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know Joe, I\u2019d be delighted.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill Sue act as godmother?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not ask her? Of course she will, with great delight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam linked arms with his brothers, \u201cWhole family is going to be busy. We\u2019ll have to arrange a special celebration. I wonder what will be finished in town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss frowned, \u201cDon\u2019t really want everyone out here, they\u2019ll be out Boxing Day anyway and if\u2019n we have them out on Christmas Eve, it sorta makes sense for them to stay over.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d Adam insisted, \u201cWe want Christmas Day on our own, as a family with a few close friends and relatives but not all those who\u2019ll be around Boxing Day. I am not sharing Christmas Day with Jim Fair!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned, \u201cNoone will be staying if we don\u2019t get the main house back soon, reckon that lot have moved in for life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa was talking of going over and having a word but he can\u2019t be rude. They are so fulsome in their gratitude, its derned hard to turn round and say it\u2019s time they got out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe wasn\u2019t even prepared to think about problems, not today and he laughed at his brothers, it would all sort itself out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The brothers weren\u2019t the only ones to consider the families in the main house were rather outstaying their welcome. Jess and Jos\u00e9 had been into town frequently on various errands, with the stock needing little attention until the weather got really bad and not involved in the lumbering, they had been helping out with renewing the stores needed for the winter. Especially with Joe and Hoss needed at home, the friends had been very willing to help out. Virginia City was emerging fast from the wreckage, rebuilding gathering momentum very fast after the initial delays as people got organized. Money was freely available and labour was attracted by paying premium rates, the railroad bringing in continual streams of supplies of all kinds with fifty trains a day. Boarding houses were already operational and there was no real need for anyone to continue taking advantage of the Cartwrights. On the way back from town, the afternoon after young Adam\u2019s birth, Jess broached the subject. He was very sure that none of the Cartwrights would speak up but now Nita was safely delivered and recovering well he felt that all of them would want to start getting back to normal, separating to their own homes. Now he was no longer needed so urgently the boss must want to come home. Jos\u00e9 fully concurred and they decided to act for their bosses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Over dinner they argued it out with some help from Kirk and the other hands but all were fairly well agreed that the people wouldn\u2019t understand anything but plain speaking. Jos\u00e9 decided that he could handle it best with just Jess to back him up, despite offerings of help from many of the other long-term hands. They would be polite but firm and before anyone else could get into the act the two friends headed for the house. Jos\u00e9 well aware of the general opinion of Mexicans in town, even if not shared by the Cartwrights, thought they might take it better coming from Jess, although he promised his full backing. Jess was perfectly willing and tried to plan what to say as they went over.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were in luck, a few of the older children were up but most kids were in bed, all the adults gathered round the fire, the men playing poker, the women chatting and sewing, as the cowboys came in. A couple of the men looked up at them as though they had no right to be in the house and one man glared at Jess as he helped himself to coffee. \u201cWhat do you want?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jess was close to losing his temper but that would be unfair to everyone and he smiled as he pulled up a chair. \u201cJust to talk. I wondered when you had last been in town?\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the other men signaled the angry man to be quiet, \u201cWhat you getting at Jess?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJos\u00e9 and I were in town today. There are several boarding houses with vacancies and even a couple of empty houses with more being built every day. We weren\u2019t sure whether you realized. The Cartwrights have been very generous to you all and I\u2019m sure you appreciate it. They don\u2019t know we\u2019re here but now Joe\u2019s wife has had her baby, all of them are gonna want to get back to normal.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou saying we ain\u2019t welcome here no more?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo I\u2019m sure the Cartwrights wouldn\u2019t say that but I am saying that it\u2019s not necessary for you to stay any longer. It\u2019s not that long until Christmas and they have a lot of guests coming. I\u2019m sure they deserve a few weeks to sort themselves out; they\u2019ve already done a hell of a lot for you and for the town in general. Don\u2019t you think its time you stood on your own feet again?\u201d Jess knew he was being blunt but they had decided that it was the only way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man, who had queried his presence initially, glared at him, \u201cYou\u2019ve got a nerve, just a hired hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Cartwrights are my friends. I\u2019m Godfather to Adam\u2019s youngest daughter and just because they won\u2019t speak up for themselves we have to stand up for them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Before the man could reply one of the women spoke up, \u201cYou know he\u2019s right. It\u2019s been mighty comfortable here and we\u2019ve sorta begun to take it for granted; but its Ben Cartwright\u2019s home and we ain\u2019t got no right to keep him out of it if\u2019n it ain\u2019t absolutely necessary.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jos\u00e9 smiled, \u201cThank you Ma\u2019am, that\u2019s all we mean. Mr Cartwright won\u2019t ever say anything but to be cut off from his own books and things does cause a few problems.\u201d<\/p>\n

The men met each others\u2019 eyes and one of them sighed but said, \u201dOkay you\u2019re right, too good to last. The Cartwrights have done enough. We\u2019ll go into town in the morning see what we can arrange, be out of the way in a few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jess put his cup down, \u201cWe\u2019re not trying to push you out in a day or anything, just get some arrangements started. Thank you for being so reasonable, we\u2019ll leave you in peace. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once the friends had gone the men put away the cards and all of them began to discuss the future. A couple were angry at the hands daring to speak up but most accepted their right, Jess was known as Adam\u2019s friend and Jos\u00e9 was foreman of the Ponderosa. Anyway the pair had only put into words what all of them had known, it was time to leave the luxury of the Ponderosa and get back to reality.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jess proved right it wasn\u2019t difficult to arrange accommodation in town; the small houses Adam had designed weren\u2019t exactly the Ponderosa but they were still more than adequate. Better than many of them had ever known, none of them were particularly rich. Two days later they had everything arranged and one of the men rode over to Adam\u2019s house to tell the Cartwrights that they would be vacating the main house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the snow slowly thickened, they had to call a halt to all the lumber operations and with the only real chores ensuring the stock had sufficient feed, the Cartwrights were able to relax; Jos\u00e9 and Jess had that under control. There was still quite a lot of lumber at the sawmills, which would be cut over the next weeks, to carry them until the next cutting season. Jack Catfish was quite capable of handling the organization there as he\u2019d made very clear. There were quite a number of legal and financial queries but nothing particularly urgent and Ben, working with Adam, got it done in odd hours when Nita was resting or when Joe and Hoss were spending time alone with their families. Hoss and Sue had moved home and Johnny settled into the new routine very easily, but they still spent part of each day over at Adam\u2019s and so far Nita wasn\u2019t pushing Joe to go home. The whole family were enjoying their time together, all enjoying the children and each other\u2019s company. Ben was pleased to hear that he could have his own home back in two days, although he tried not to show it, emphasizing that there was no great hurry. No mention was made of Jess\u2019 and Jos\u00e9\u2019s visit but Jess had admitted to his friend just what they had done. Adam was amused but very grateful to his friends for getting things moving. Over dinner that night he filled his family in on the hands\u2019 impatience.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had to go to town for a meeting the following day and he had several telegrams to get of to Will and Laura, Meg and John, confirming arrangements for Christmas and some polite telegrams that Nita wanted sent to her relatives, announcing Adam\u2019s arrival. He was surprised to see just how much progress had been made in the days since his last visit. Even some of the big buildings were nearly finished and the houses he had designed for Fair and Mackay were taking shape. An elaborate new Washoe club was well on the way to completion and expected to be open for business in another week, with many saloons already open. Dan had his press back in it\u2019s own building and he filled Adam in on the current position and what was planned for the next weeks, in exchange for the gossip from the ranch, delighted at his good friends\u2019 luck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

While Adam was in town, Joe and Hoss helped Ben move his things back to the main house much to Hop Sing\u2019s relief. He was frantically cleaning the house, wanting it to get back to his normal standard. Ben was just glad to get back to his own bed and spent quite a lot of time rearranging things on his desk, and just staring out of the window at the view he loved.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nita was up and around, insisting that she felt fine, but for Joe\u2019s peace of mind she had agreed to stay at Adam\u2019s for two more days. Joe decided to take advantage of Carole\u2019s presence, he could rely on her to look after Nita and his son while he went into town with Adam and his father, who had to attend another meeting the next day. Nita was quite happy with the idea and Carole promised to make sure she didn\u2019t overdo things so Joe went along with an easy mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three men made good time on the ride in but as the town came into view, Joe pulled up. The fire tower was basically finished and many of the houses were finished, at least the outer shells, so that from the distance the new town looked almost as big and bustling as ever. Joe shook his head, \u201cDoesn\u2019t seem possible in such a short time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMarvelous what money can do.\u201d Adam said dryly, but as they rode down into town, they saw many of the buildings were still only half finished. Before the meeting Adam went down to collect some telegrams and Joe went along with him to see if there was any response from Nita\u2019s family. There was a large wad of telegrams waiting for them and the brothers decided to take them over to the new Palace Saloon to read, squabbling amicably over whose turn it was to buy the beer. Joe lost, unable to deny Adam\u2019s insistence that he had been supporting Joe and his wife and child for weeks, so the least Joe could do was buy him a beer. Joe knew Adam was only kidding him but he came back with the beer to the table in the corner, bemoaning his fate only to find his brother wasn\u2019t even listening to him. Adam was immersed in long telegram and Joe frowned, concerned \u201cBad news?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up and grinned, \u201cNo, quite the contrary. It\u2019s from John Chance, their new partnership is proving very profitable but of course the weather has closed them down. He and Bill Davidson are curious to see how the town has been rebuilt.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cInvite them for Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was proposing to, I think John\u2019s angling for the invite. I know I said we wanted a family Christmas but\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh come on, that pair are old friends, more than Meg and John, all of us enjoy their company.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks little brother.\u201d Adam moved onto the other telegrams, while Joe read the rather stiff congratulations from his in-laws. Adam passed over the telegrams from Will and John confirming their plans to arrive on the 21st and stay for a fortnight. Then suddenly Adam looked up in delight, \u201cThat\u2019s marvelous. I\u2019ll kill Dan he didn\u2019t give me a hint!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe waited patiently for an explanation but as Adam failed to give it, just staring at the telegram, he\u2019d found amongst a lot of mundane confirmations of orders received. In desperation Joe grabbed the telegram to read himself. It was from Edwin Booth to say that he had been invited and accepted an offer of opening the grand new Piper\u2019s Opera house on the 17th of December. He was booked for a week\u2019s Shakespearean festival and he was asking Adam to put him up as usual, with no hesitation in asking for the invite over Christmas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe knew how much Edwin\u2019s and Jim Forrester\u2019s friendship meant to his brother and he enjoyed their company. It was going to be a bigger party than they\u2019d expected, mainly the same as the previous year but it had worked very well then and he was equally pleased. Adam had to get to the meeting and left Joe to send replies and the invite to John and Bill, while he went to join his father and fill him in on the other guests, who would be coming for Christmas. The meeting was largely a waste of time and Adam found himself committed to meeting an architect\u2019s commission, which was being sent out from Washington to investigate the way the town had been rebuilt so fast. Ben was also roped in along with the other senior members of the Council and John MacKay. The commission was due in four days and although Adam had to admit that he was an obvious representative, he cursed the new commitment, with his new nephews and his own four children, home had an immense attraction at the moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Nita and Joe took their new baby home, leaving Adam and Carole alone in their home, it seemed strangely quiet, but Adam made the most of having his wife alone as he so seldom had over the last months. Joe was delighted to be back in his own home, with his wife next to him and the baby in the adjoining room it felt more like home than ever. He felt more at peace than he ever had and so very happy. Nita was fine, with an easy labour, she had had virtually no reaction and Joe could leave her with an easy mind, knowing that Sue and Carole were within earshot if needed. He was intrigued by the architect\u2019s commission and wanted to know their reaction to his brother\u2019s designs and so he volunteered his services as his brother\u2019s note taker. Adam was frankly amazed; he would have loved to get out of it if he could. Hoss watched amused, \u201cI think Pa can have a secretary too, like Joe I\u2019m curious.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Adam turned to stare at him, Hoss grinned broadly, \u201cYou know your trouble Adam you\u2019re nervous. Wondering what the experts will have to say about your designs. You know they are real good and derned effective, you just think your gonna be embarrassed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glared at him, \u201cThat\u2019s not the point at all Hoss. It\u2019s just going to be a waste of time. I have better things to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah brother!\u201d Hoss said in disbelief, \u201cThink about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hurried, \u201cI have things to do.\u201d He went into the study, got out the contract he was working on and picked up his pen but he couldn\u2019t concentrate and lent back in his chair, staring up at the painting of the Lake. Maybe his brothers knew him better than he knew himself. He had seen Joe nod in agreement and although he hadn\u2019t really considered it, he realized that Hoss might well be right. Subconsciously he didn\u2019t want to be around as experts judged his work, a lot less confident of their opinion than his brothers. If he had to be there he would welcome moral support from all his family. He put his pen down and went out. Seeing his brothers talking quietly over by the window, he went over to join them, \u201cOkay. You two know me better than I know myself. Come along and protect me, maybe we can prevent anyone bringing me into it at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see why you shouldn\u2019t take the credit.\u201d Joe protested, but Adam grinned wryly, \u201cFor a start I should like to make sure they aren\u2019t brickbats!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The following morning the four Cartwrights, all dressed rather more formally than was their wont, headed into town for the official welcoming ceremony to the delegation of architects. They knew it included President Grant\u2019s own representative as well as one Senator and two Congressmen, apart from the actual architects. An official luncheon was to be held in the hastily finished Washoe Club. Sharon as the new Senator for Nevada would be taking the chair and Adam was confident that he at least wouldn\u2019t be including the Cartwrights in any laurels thrown around.<\/p>\n

The official party collected at the station to meet the special train due in at 11.30 a.m. It wasn\u2019t difficult to get Joe and Hoss included in the dinner, numbers were very much up in the air, not knowing just how large the arriving delegation was. The three brothers kept well back, talking quietly with some friends, leaving Ben to represent the family officially. However as the train drew in one of the first people off took all of them by surprise. It was Michelle Grandison, with an older man helping her down the steps. She spotted them and came over. Her husband ran a large building firm in Sacramento and after hearing her report he had pulled strings to get on the delegation as the representative from the Californian state capitol. Michelle introduced her husband and he took the opportunity to thank the Cartwrights for the aid given to his wife and her parents. Michelle was fascinated by all the changes in the town since she had seen it and at once pointed out the rows of houses, which Adam had just been starting when she left. Grandison was intrigued and shading his eyes against the bright light, he considered them. Joe said, sotto v\u00f6ce, \u201cThat\u2019s the end of any chance you had of hiding and I for one am not sorry. Adam glared at his brother but then he had to concentrate on answering some of Grandison\u2019s technical questions. He wasn\u2019t an architect but knew the problems of actually organizing a building project and the speed with which the houses had been erected intrigued him. Adam didn\u2019t claim any special expertise, with the whole town burnt down everyone\u2019s energy and all the supplies had been applied to the job of rebuilding before normal life could resume. It was the concentrated effort, which had really shown such fruit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The six official members of the town\u2019s committee were on the top table along with Sharon and Ben found himself next to the President\u2019s representative Faulkner. Adam was next to the senior architect, an Englishman William Clarke, head of a very well known and influential Boston architectural firm. He had taken the job very much under protest, not expecting to find anything of interest and although he had brought two artists along, he was expecting more quaint pictures than practical designs. With so many official ceremonies he hadn\u2019t taken in much and the rococo design of the Washoe Club fulfilled his worst fears, although he was polite about the staircase, saved from the old building and for a long time one of Adam\u2019s favourite parts of town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Conversation was very stilted and John MacKay on the far side of him was out of his depth, until in desperation Adam turned the conversation to the architecture of Europe that he\u2019d seen on two trips. At that Clarke became almost animated, glad to find someone of taste in this benighted frontier town. Ben was getting on rather better with Faulkner, who was at least curious about the town, its history and the way they had rebuilt so fast. Even so they were both glad when the official speeches started, although boring it was easy enough to cut them out and retreat into your own thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did listen to Faulkner who was making clear the Commission\u2019s terms of reference. They were interested in the speed of building, the low cost housing they had heard about and any new ideas in design, in a town where so much had had to be rebuilt at once. They also had two men along who were more interested in the way that they had coped in the immediate aftermath of the fire, the organization of help and the precautions for the future. They wanted to be able to send advice to other similarly vulnerable towns and making contingency plans for the future. It seemed reasonably sensible but whether anything but a lot of polite talk would result, Adam for one wasn\u2019t convinced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once the speeches and toasts were finished Faulkner suggested the various working members met to try and decide how best to arrange the work. Most of the extraneous people disappeared and the commission resolved itself into 18 men including the 2 artists. Of the 16 men named by various bodies two were interested in planning, the other 14 were in some way involved in design or building. Ben found himself taking charge, almost by default, for the Virginia City delegation. John had been as involved as anyone in the relief planning and he agreed to take the two planners off for a discussion. Then Ben suggested that they split up into small groups and have a look around at just what had been achieved and what was being done. Then they could meet for a discussion and plan the next couple of days more profitably. Clarke decided to take his two artists with him and Adam was to show him around. Ben co-opted his younger sons to take two small groups and the whole party would meet up again for a first formal meeting in the large room over the Nevada Bank, which they would use. With three small rooms available for smaller meetings, it was ideal. Ben decided that two hours would be long enough for a general impression of the town and where appropriate a more detailed look could be arranged later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took Faulkner around himself with two of the other senior architects, one from New York and the other from Washington at least temporarily. He started with the swiftly built low cost housing, not hiding his son\u2019s part in the design and planning.<\/p>\n

They were very impressed and went round an empty one, watching the finishing touches to it. Then they moved onto some of the more elaborate buildings in town, the Opera House nearly finished, the big new five storied International Hotel, still at a fairly early stage and some private houses. Three of the houses in particular took their attention but Ben made no comment. They were about to go back when the fire tower caught Faulkner\u2019s attention. Ben explained its purpose and promised to get him the plans to look at. They were still discussing it as they went into the Bank. Joe and Hoss had also made their brother\u2019s contribution very clear but Adam had avoided the subject. Clarke hadn\u2019t said very much at first, although he did comment that the small houses seemed practical. Walking through the main residential street he snorted once or twice at the more ornate buildings but rather to Adam\u2019s embarrassment he left one artist at Fair\u2019s house and the other at MacKay\u2019s, with a brief comment. \u201cBit different.\u201d Then he ordered Adam to show him the fire tower. It was a fairly steep climb but Clarke made it at a good pace. He walked round the outside, ignoring the workmen and then moved inside. Darby came over to Adam, \u201cAny problem?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNone, this architectural commission from back East, come to see what we\u2019re up to. How about you? Making progress faster than I expected.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before Darby could answer Clarke reappeared, \u201cIs this the foreman?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam introduced him and Clarke asked to see the plans. He studied them in silence for a minute and then queried one feature, looking at Darby, who just shrugged. \u201cI\u2019m only building it, why don\u2019t you ask Adam he designed it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clarke looked at Adam with sudden interest, \u201cDid you, mmm, I\u2019d like a copy of the plans.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCertainly but I think we\u2019d better get back.\u201d On the way Adam had to explain the rationale behind his design. They were the last back and Ben at once called the meeting to order. Several men wanted to know if they could have copies of plans and Ben agreed to try and get them if they would let him know which buildings were involved. There was fairly general agreement, much to Adam\u2019s embarrassment, apart from the Opera House and one other private house, the four they were interested in were Fair\u2019s, MacKay\u2019s, the low cost housing and the fire tower, all his designs. Hoss and Joe were both grinning broadly and even Ben found it hard to hide his delight as he said that four were easily obtainable, the opera house and one other he would have to inquire. To Adam\u2019s horror, MacKay laughed, \u201cAll the rest are Adam\u2019s efforts, any queries and he\u2019s right here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As everyone looked at him Adam stared down at his papers murmuring something about providing plans, but Clarke picked up the two sketches his artist had done and said in disbelief, \u201cYou did these and the fire tower and those terraces of low cost housing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben answered as Adam couldn\u2019t, confirming his son\u2019s work. Clarke considered them and then looked up at Adam, \u201cOriginal, if you\u2019d like to come east I can offer you a position in my firm.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled wryly, \u201cNo thanks. I have a ranch to run, architecture is just a hobby. I only did these to help out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

One of the other men got a big laugh as he said, \u201cI\u2019m dammed glad to hear it! I can do without that sorta competition.\u201d Even Adam relaxed at that and the meeting got down to detailed planning. Adam used the excuse of going home to get his plans, having already passed over the plans for the fire tower and several men were making copies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was glad to get away and in some ways it was easier for the others in his absence. Faulkner himself was very curious, he had heard of the Ponderosa ad gradually it dawned on him that Adam was from the ranch. As they relaxed with coffee and brandy he asked Ben about his sons. Adam sipped his brandy, \u201cAdam is the scholar of our family. He studied engineering and architecture in Boston many years ago, returning just before this town was founded. Then about six, seven years ago he went to Cambridge University in England to study law, finished his course in Boston and qualified as a lawyer. We rely on his expertise heavily, both at the ranch and in the mines with which we are deeply involved.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Impressive but someone said he was a fast gun.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt happens out here, all my sons have had to be fighters on occasion to protect ourselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAren\u2019t your other sons jealous?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank God no. Joseph is a great help to his brother both on legal detail and surveys as well as taking charge of our horse breeding programme, while Hoss is our expert on timber. We all do our share and it works well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben wasn\u2019t the only one being questioned and Clarke unbent enough to ask Joe about his brother\u2019s designs He showed interest when Joe mentioned their own houses which he thought were the best examples of his brother\u2019s work. Grandison had heard of them from his wife and expressed an interest in seeing them, although not really part of their job, unconnected with the rebuilding of the town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up at that, hearing the corner Joe had backed himself into and met his son\u2019s eye. \u201cWe\u2019ll have to consider that. You understand the houses are my sons\u2019 private residences and we have had a great deal of disruption with the refugees from the fire. More important two of my daughters have had first babies in the last few weeks and \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss interrupted, \u201cSue and Nita can cope Pa. If we went out after lunch tomorrow and returned to town for dinner, it wouldn\u2019t be too big a problem for the girls.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his agreement and so Ben gave way although he was sure that his eldest son wouldn\u2019t like it. However when he said as much to Hoss and Joe, getting them on their own for a minute, he found that neither of them thought that was important. All the experts had come to Nevada to see what they were doing and it was only right to show the best that the area had to offer, to show them that it wasn\u2019t a cultural outback. If the best in their opinion was Adam\u2019s work they didn\u2019t seem to be in a minority. Ben gave way; he was very proud of his eldest son and not at all loathe to show off his work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had had enough for one day, he\u2019d felt thoroughly embarrassed if rather flattered, so he sent the plans in with Jess including a covering note to his father, assuring him that nothing was wrong. He didn\u2019t even want to discuss that day\u2019s events with Carole and after a few minutes went and buried his nose in a book.<\/p>\n

Ben was over early to collect his sons and while Adam was playing with the twins, he filled Carole in on the afternoon visit and the compliments paid to her husband. Like Hoss and Joe she thought Adam deserved the notice and even if he disliked it now, looking back he would appreciate informed comment as he had Bierstadt\u2019s opinion.<\/p>\n

She had no doubts that his designs were of a very high quality.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t until they were on the way to town that Ben mentioned the visit that afternoon. Adam listened in silence but his family could see his lips tighten in anger, \u201cWhich of you had to go and open his big mouth?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI did.\u201d Joe confessed, \u201cbut it didn\u2019t make any difference the houses are famous round here. Anyway Grandison had heard of them from Michelle and was angling for a visit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright. You invited them you entertain them, I\u2019ll have no part of it\u201d with that Adam kicked Blackie on ahead leaving the three of them looking at each other in consternation. Hoss said tentatively, \u201cHe can\u2019t mean it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed \u201cI wouldn\u2019t bet on it Hoss. I told you he wouldn\u2019t like it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was angry himself, \u201cWell he\u2019s going to get some credit for once even if he doesn\u2019t want it.\u201d Each in turn tried to change Adam\u2019s mind without success and after a working lunch he disappeared up to the California to sort out a legal problem Jim Fair had been onto him about.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had to make his son\u2019s excuses and then he got the whole party organized for the trip out to the ranch. As they headed up towards the three houses Ben was able to point out the original main flume, very proud of his son\u2019s design. Both Faulkner and Clarke were with Ben and they considered the flume carefully. Faulkner had seen a couple in California and now the name of the company building them made sense. \u201cOriginal thinker your son, that\u2019s rare. I\u2019m interested to see these houses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey are very much his own designs, in town he had to compromise. I\u2019ll just point out that he\u2019s greatly attracted by Palladio\u2019s ideas.\u201d The two Easterners were frankly surprised that Ben had even heard of Palladio. All the Cartwrights had reverted to normal working clothes once the formalities were over and with guns slung on their hips it all seemed incongruous.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took them past the main house, the long sprawling house ideal for its situation, although it could never transfer elsewhere. The cluster of barns, bunkhouses and corrals with men working around the place was a very clear testimonial to the Cartwright\u2019s wealth and power. As the first house came into view, which was Joe and Nita\u2019s, Ben pulled up and a hand came to take care of the buggy and the visitors were soon busily looking around, inside and out. Joe had gone to join Nita and his son to ensure that she wasn\u2019t overdoing it. Nita insisted that she was fine and as much as Joe himself she felt Adam should have the credit he\u2019d earnt so richly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was very little discussion until the whole party gathered at Adam\u2019s house. Joe decided that he was in the doghouse anyway and so he raided his brother\u2019s study for the sketches and original plans for all three houses and the one which had never been built. That caused even more comment and discussion as to where it was, but Joe shook his head, his arm round Nita, \u201cIt was never built, Adam designed it for my first wife, she died in childbirth. However I think it does demonstrate a little of his versatility.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Most of the questions Hoss and Joe could answer, even the technical ones, they\u2019d helped build the houses and been over the designs in minute detail with their brother. By the time the group returned to town most of them considered the younger brothers in a new light and were all enthusiastic about the designs. For few they were too simple but the majority couldn\u2019t resist the harmony of the buildings and all of them wanted copies of the plans and sketches. Initial copies had been made at the house and more copies would be made in town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Discussion was wide ranging as they went back and all three Cartwrights stored the best ones to tell Adam and Carole later. It was to be a working dinner and Adam couldn\u2019t avoid it so the others had no need to pass on compliments at second hand. Adam was thoroughly embarrassed and threatened his family dire things under his breath but he did his best to keep things light. In a way he was pleased, he was very proud of his designs for the three houses and there was no denying the sincerity of the compliments. In fact he was offered jobs by most of the big firms, including three<\/p>\n

offers of partnership and all manner of flexible working, short term working just in the winter, or designing at home and sending the finished plans east. Adam was very flattered but not at all tempted, He tried to explain that he couldn\u2019t leave the wide open spaces that he was used to and that he was already deeply committed, his time fully occupied. They didn\u2019t give up easily and although dropping it as work got under way, several were determined to talk privately later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was very late by the time they got free and could head home and all four were tired. Hoss settled on Chub, \u201cThank God they\u2019re only here for two more days.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you hadn\u2019t wasted time at the ranch we could have been clear hours ago.\u201d Adam complained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense.\u201d Ben said briskly \u201cThey\u2019d have talked until they were tired whatever we did. Anyway they deserved to see the best; you should be gratified by their reaction.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam yawned, \u201cAt least I know I can get a job if Hoss and Joe go and give away the Ponderosa.\u201d He grinned at his brothers who relaxed, knowing he was no longer cross with them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next two days were hectic although reasonably satisfying and Adam got used to turning down ever more lucrative job offers. He did use MacKay to point out that the Cartwrights were millionaires many times over and Adam wasn\u2019t likely to be tempted by money. Unfortunately it didn\u2019t help much, attention was just switched to the prestige of the jobs they were offering, the chance of fame. None of them seemed capable of believing that he actually wanted to stay in this cultural backwater, although a couple from California and Denver both emphasized that he would still be close to the big outdoors if he came into partnership with them. His brothers found it amusing and had side bets on what would be offered next but Adam was getting annoyed again and was glad when they got to the final luncheon. Adam had been quite happy to give them permission where they wanted to use his designs and it was only at Ben\u2019s insistence that he had agreed to take payment and credit for them.<\/p>\n

However he was very clear that anything more and any further commissions were out of the question.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were a lot of speeches made at the luncheon but for once Adam had opted out and thrown the onus for speech making onto his father. Of them all the best received was Faulkner\u2019s, an aspiring politician he had had more practice. He was adept at knowing what his listeners wanted to hear but this time he also had the advantage of believing what he was saying, of being sincere. Ben knew he\u2019d never forget the speech and guessed that, despite his obvious embarrassment Adam wouldn\u2019t either, certainly his younger sons were delighted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Faulkner spoke of all that they had seen, the efficiency of organization and the priority given to housing, both practical and available quickly. He also spoke of the various buildings in and outside town that they had seen, all designed by local architects, often in days. Where similar buildings most of them knew to their cost could take months to design and even longer to produce detailed plans. The clarity of the working plans had been an example to them all, as indeed had the buildings themselves, magnificent in their very simplicity and elegance. He finished, \u201cWe often feel all talent lies within a few major firms but our way tends to force conformity to the currently accepted style. Here on the frontier where culture is assumed to be non-existent we have found elegance and perhaps more important originality of thought which I believe will act as an inspiration to many of us in the years ahead. Like most of you I have tried to tempt Adam back east but maybe he\u2019s right. He has no need of us, while we have great need of new ideas like his, which may grow better outside the establishment. He has been very generous in sharing his plans and ideas for which, on behalf of all of us I\u2019d like to thank him. Finally I\u2019d like to thank the whole town for its hospitality and its willingness to share the wisdom gained from its disaster.\u201d He proposed a toast to the town and MacKay realizing how difficult it would be for Ben to respond, said a few words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was greatly relieved when the party finally got on the train and left and he immediately collected Blackie and rode out to the Lake, needing to be alone for a while. He had been very sincerely complimented and he was glad that the experts liked his ideas, but he had felt so very awkward and he had a stinking headache.<\/p>\n

Dan had been at the luncheon and he was proposing to print at least the final speeches in full. Ben had no real objection but Joe warned the newspaperman to keep out of Adam\u2019s way for a few days if he did. Dan shrugged, \u201cHe deserves the praise.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh I\u2019m not arguing about that, but it didn\u2019t exactly stop him going brick red.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam went home very late and made it absolutely clear to everyone that he didn\u2019t want to hear anymore about it. Carole, Sue and Nita had been to the formal luncheon and the six of them had discussed it on the way home, so they dropped it seeing that Adam was on the verge of losing his temper. However late that evening, just before heading home, Ben dropped into the chair next to him as Adam sat studying his Inigo Jones book. Adam looked up ruefully, \u201cA lot of compliments.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey were meant very sincerely and well deserved.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess so and I am pleased really, but very glad it\u2019s over. I felt so awkward. Any money can go to the orphanage; they still have rebuilding to do.\u201d Adam was quiet for a minute, \u201cI suppose I am proud of all the nice things they said but none of it means one tenth of what my brothers\u2019 said after Adam\u2019s birth.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s because they are strangers, no compliments will ever mean as much as the delight all four showed on seeing those sketches because noone else is so important to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re right. I think I\u2019m for bed, I\u2019m tired, not slept too well the last couple of nights. Still it\u2019ll all blow over in a couple of days now they\u2019ve gone and I\u2019m not gong back into town until it has!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed but he knew Adam was right, others would forget but he wouldn\u2019t. In fact with the town well on the way back to normal the Cartwrights were able to settle to a more normal winter pattern. What errands did need doing in town, Hoss and Joe handled as they were both busy making arrangements for a large christening party at the Washoe Club on Christmas Eve. Thus it was nearly ten days later before Adam went back to town, to find most of the buildings on \u2018C\u2019 street apparently finished, although the hotel would be several months yet. The wider street didn\u2019t seem to be helping much with traffic and if anyone had left town because of the fire it wasn\u2019t exactly noticeable, the street as bustling and crowded as ever, if not worse.<\/p>\n

Adam went to the Bank to collect some cash and while it was being made up he listened to the latest gossip. The main event in town was scheduled for that Saturday with the grand opening of the new Piper\u2019s Opera House. Tickets for the show were already changing hands at a hefty premium and all those who couldn\u2019t get in weren\u2019t going to lose out entirely, as Piper was providing free champagne dancing in the streets and an elaborate firework display. None of it exactly went with Shakespeare, but Adam was well used to Virginia City and luckily so was Edwin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Most of the company had already arrived in town and Adam was there to meet Edwin<\/p>\n

and Jim. As Adam edged the buggy down to the railway station, he found the clerk in the bank wasn\u2019t the only one talking about the opening and he wasn\u2019t too surprised to see a large welcoming committee for the famous actor. Adam had had too much of the limelight recently and he pulled a barrel over against the station wall and made himself comfortable, well back in the shadows, to watch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edwin got off the train carrying his own baggage and looked around in surprise, not seeing Adam, just a crowd of dignitaries and then a brass band began to play. Edwin and Jim hesitated looking for the object of all the attention, when to Edwin\u2019s horror they purposefully approached him. He stared aghast and then caught sight of Adam sitting, shaking with suppressed laughter. His expression didn\u2019t bode well for his friend later, but for now he was caught up in a whole series of polite speeches and the insistence that he joined them for a celebration lunch. Adam wandered over, \u201cJim and I will load your luggage, rescue you in ninety minutes. You can\u2019t get out of this.\u201d He said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edwin glared at him, \u201cYou might at least come.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, I have work to do and it\u2019s nothing to do with me. I didn\u2019t even know about it until I got to the station.\u201d Even Jim slipped away with Adam and by the time they collected Edwin he was furious and started the journey to the house in icy silence.<\/p>\n

Eventually catching the twinkle in Adam\u2019s eye, it proved too much for him and he couldn\u2019t help laughing, enlivening the rest of the journey with the odd mixture of pompous speeches and roughhouse planned for Saturday that he had been told about.<\/p>\n

He had tried to suggest doing \u2018Midsummer\u2019s Night Dream\u2019 as better fitted for the carnival atmosphere but Piper was insistent, it had to be \u2018Hamlet\u2019. A more incongruous set of celebrations were hard to imagine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edwin was glad to get to Adam\u2019s house and to the girls\u2019 delight he insisted on inspecting the three new arrivals before he settled for coffee. He was ribbing Joe over coffee, it was almost impossible to believe Joe was a father, made him feel old and decrepit. Joe was well used to his brother\u2019s friend and gave as good as he got, assuring Edwin that the lines were beginning to show and offering to get him a cane. All of them enjoyed having Edwin and Jim there and it was flattering to hear that Edwin had postponed the opening of a show in New York on getting the offer from Piper purely because he could then spend Christmas on the Ponderosa. Although he did admit privately to Ben that, after so many alarming stories, he was eager to see Adam again and curious to see the rebuilt town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Each day Edwin had to go in for rehearsals but by evening all work was put away and the whole party congregated in one or other of the houses to enjoy each other\u2019s company. On Saturday Adam left his father to bring Carole in and rode in early with Edwin and Jim. They hadn\u2019t been gone long when two riders clattered into the yard, four days earlier than expected but very sure of a welcome. Carole came out with a broad smile to greet John Chance and Bill Davidson, laughing off their apologies for turning up early. Over coffee she said, \u201cAdam was only saying last night that it was a pity you\u2019d miss the opening of the theatre, after all you enjoyed the celebrations for the pipeline so much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She grinned wickedly as John protested, \u201cThat\u2019s unfair Carole! My head aches just remembering that hangover.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole laughed, \u201cDon\u2019t worry, Adam thinks it\u2019ll be rather more decorous tonight and I\u2019m sure that Edwin can get you two in. There\u2019s nothing much outstanding in the way of work and it\u2019s going to be a lovely long Christmas break this year. I think we\u2019ve all earned it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time that Ben arrived to collect her all three were changed and ready and Carole was busy answering questions about some of the wild stories, mainly all too accurate, which had been circulating about the ranch and the family. Ben was surprised but pleased to see them and eventually got all his family on the move. Both Adam and Johnny still needed frequent feeding and Edwin had offered the use of his dressing room, so wrapped warmly the two youngest Cartwrights went along. Anne slept through the night and Kam Su would take care of all the children so Carole was unencumbered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was an elaborate meal for the cast and local dignitaries first. Edwin determined on some light relief had at least got Carole next to him and Adam opposite but the others were grouped at the end of the table. Ben had opted to stay with his family. Edwin had managed to fit two extra chairs into the box he\u2019d allocated the Cartwrights and Bill and John went off to get a meal and a drink, promising to rejoin the others before the start of the show.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The food was excellent but Edwin only picked at his, he never ate much before a performance. At least with Adam and Carole there he could relax. They were never short of a subject to talk about although Edwin was careful not to be rude to his other neighbours. Adam relaxed and ready to enjoy himself, with all his family happy, was in a zany mood and what could have been very boring became almost hilarious. Great bursts of laughter from the top table intrigued the rest of the hall, but Ben didn\u2019t need any explanation, he\u2019d seen his son\u2019s mood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Eventually the cast had to go and get ready but Piper wasn\u2019t finished and after a toast to the success of the evening he went to start the outside entertainment. He had arranged fountains of champagne, a short prelude to the main firework display and dancing on the street, which he had arranged to board over temporarily. It wasn\u2019t exactly the weather for outside festivities but although very cold it was at least dry. The town entered into the spirit of the occasion with a will and as more and more people gathered in the street outside the Opera house they generated their own warmth. Eventually Adam couldn\u2019t resist temptation any longer and swung Carole out into the fray, regardless of her lovely white dress. She protested laughingly, \u201cI\u2019ll get filthy!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam kissed her firmly, \u201cYou\u2019ll still be the most beautiful woman here and anyway your hem won\u2019t show in the box.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe hesitated, looking at the crowd and then at Nita but she grinned, \u201cWhy not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Seeing both his brothers dancing Hoss said very formally, \u201cMay I have the honour?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched amused as all three of his sons whirled their wives round the makeshift floor but he wasn\u2019t left out long as Aleysha came up and invited him to dance. Nothing loathe Ben moved out on the dance floor and meeting his youngest son\u2019s eye he grinned, \u201cI\u2019m not that old.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo I see, lovely partner.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the warning bell went for the performance all of them were quite breathless but perfectly warm despite the snow on the roofs. Joe took Nita backstage to check on the babies but they were both sleeping peacefully. The wardrobe mistress offered to keep an eye on them, both such beautiful babies, so accepting gratefully Nita was able to relax and watch the play with a clear conscience.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The audience was involved from the first minute and it wouldn\u2019t really have mattered what the performance was like they were so determined to enjoy themselves. In fact Edwin and the rest of the cast were buoyed up by the audience and it was one of the best performances that Adam had ever seen his friend give. Everyone became deeply involved and at the first interval Ben looked round to see all thee girls still lost in the play and rather more surprisingly so was Joe. Hoss went to check on the babies while John and Bill managed to raise some coffee much to everyone\u2019s surprise but it went down very well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled at his eldest son, \u201cVery powerful performance, especially Edwin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s at his best, responding to the audience.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The rest of the play was if anything even better and the whole cast, but especially Edwin got a rapturous reception. Adam and Carole slipped backstage to congratulate him as he came of stage and even Edwin seemed moved by the audience reaction. The babies were both stirring and Edwin moved in with one of his colleagues to get changed, leaving Sue and Nita in peace to feed the babies. Hoss, Joe, John and Bill with many others were co-opted to help move all the chairs from the pit, the actual stalls hadn\u2019t yet arrived, and with all the lights on and the doors full open, it would give an extra area for dancing. It would be mainly for the elite who had been to the show, but that was purely convention, no actual barrier would be present. For now everyone moved out for the major firework display. Adam got Carole settled in a good position and as Ben joined him standing behind her, Adam murmured, \u201cIf this lot set light to the town again I\u2019m going straight home!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t say a thing like that, even in fun.\u201d Ben retorted in mock horror.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No risks were being taken and the magnificent display went down very well. As the dancing started up again Edwin came and collected them for a late supper. He was hungry now and very pleased with himself. For once the friends didn\u2019t start arguing about the play, Adam just congratulated Edwin on the best performance he\u2019d seen, although he did tease Edwin, it was going to be very difficult to follow that. Edwin wasn\u2019t at all popular with the rest of the cast as he was intending to do MacBeth, King Lear and Romeo and Juliet over the next three days, before he repeated Hamlet. Adam wanted to know which of the plays he was only doing once and as it was King Lear, he booked tickets for that. He would go to the second performance of Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet. Laura liked the theatre and probably Meg and John would come too. The management had wanted him to do a performance on Christmas Eve but Edwin had pleaded a previous performance. Piper was so delighted that he had agreed to do the seven performances, that he accepted that, a big coup for his new theatre. For Edwin it was more important to accept the invitation that Joe and Hoss had given him, insisting that he join the christening party.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After their supper the whole party went back to the dancing and Edwin found himself the centre of an admiring crowd, all wanting to congratulate him. Since his brother had assassinated Lincoln he had always needed the reassurance of applause and the crowds of fans but eventually he had had enough and looked round for rescue. Seeing Adam and Carole he went over to join them and asked Carole to dance. She willingly agreed and Adam went to get a drink before finding another partner. Most of the time the Ponderosa party stayed on the inside dance floor but they were part of the town and without discussion, each in turn made token appearances outside either alone or with their wives. If alone they soon found partners and it was hard to turn down the proffered drinks. Joe was a little merry but firm about turning down anymore, even if they thought he was rude he had a prior commitment to his wife and child.<\/p>\n

Nita seemed very happy, enjoying herself but as she sat feeding Adam well after midnight, she relaxed and looked very tired. Joe kissed her forehead, \u201cI\u2019ll go and fetch the buggy, and it\u2019s time we went home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m alright darling.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure but you\u2019re very tired, so am I if it comes to that.\u201d Joe had a quiet word with his father but Hoss overheard and came over, \u201cSue\u2019s just gone to Johnny and I agree with Joe its time to go home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Carole were dancing but Ben interrupted to tell them they were going and Adam decided it would be nice to all go together. Edwin and Jim were more than ready and it didn\u2019t take long to collect John and Bill. By the time Hoss and Joe were back with the buggies, Jess had collected Carole\u2019s for Adam and the whole party was ready to head home. It had been a thoroughly enjoyable evening and they chatted quietly as they drove home but it was very late and they separated to go to their own homes and get some sleep. Edwin was still high on the applause and Adam joined him in the study for a nightcap, chatting over the night\u2019s events.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On Monday the Cartwrights went in to see Lear but John and Bill opted out, too much Shakespeare was just too much of a good thing, they would join in for the final performance of Romeo and Juliet. Hoss was tempted to join them but he knew that Sue enjoyed the plays, even though he disliked Lear. He found it well worth it, just watching her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nearly all work had been abandoned until after Christmas and the four Chinese had all the arrangements under control so that the family could relax and enjoy themselves. The older children were taking advantage of the extra people thoroughly enjoying all the attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The house party was completed on the Wednesday four days before Christmas when the San Francisco contingent arrived. The three brothers had gone into town to collect them, Adam as usual riding leaving his brothers to drive the buggies. They tied the pony that Peggy usually rode on the back of Joe\u2019s buggy, ready for the little girl. It was a long time since they had seen their cousin and the twins in particular had changed, now five years old.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will and Laura were particularly anxious to see Adam. Ben had assured them that Adam was recovering fast but the story of his injuries had been terrifying. Meg was eager to show of her little daughter Elizabeth, she had wanted a child so much and her baby was very well behaved. Laura was also eager to see the new arrivals, they\u2019d had all the news by telegraph but it wasn\u2019t the same as seeing for yourself and they\u2019d knew nothing about the problems with Anne\u2019s birth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With everything that had happened since Adam had totally forgotten about the fire and he was puzzled by the searching looks his cousin gave him. Shaking his head Adam didn\u2019t worry about it in the bustle of getting everything loaded. It was the first time they had been able to travel so far by train and Laura was delighted. It had been a lot less tiring and the twins had been able to move around more freely and fretted less.<\/p>\n

Adam lifted the twins up into the buggy next to Joe and then turned to help Laura in, only to find her studying him anxiously. Whatever was wrong the station was not the place to investigate, so he kissed her cheek and helped her up while Will finished tying the luggage on. Adam got Peggy mounted and they led the way out.<\/p>\n

John and Meg were fascinated by all the changes in the town and Hoss was busy explaining just what part they had played. Will took a swift look around but then turned to Joe, \u201cJust how is Adam now? Lifting up the twins like that, should he?\u201d<\/p>\n

Laura was equally worried but Joe grinned, \u201cRelax both of you. I know Pa was still worried about him when he came to San Francisco but that was months ago, he\u2019s fine. Quite badly scarred of course and I think it\u2019s still a little tender if anything hit his back, but on the whole its given up worrying him. He doesn\u2019t even think about it and he can do as much as he ever did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will and Laura relaxed, confident that if Joe was unworried, they had nothing to be concerned about, knowing how much he fussed over his brother. Only then did Will really take in the complete change in the town they had both known so well and begin to get details about the fire and the rebuilding out of Joe. Joe took advantage of Adam being distracted by Peggy and gave them the full story of their part in rebuilding, especially his brother, including the architectural commission\u2019s reaction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The trip to the house seemed over before it was possible and with everyone gathered at Adam\u2019s to greet the new arrivals it was chaos for a few minutes. The men moved all the luggage up to the guestrooms while the five women gathered round the four babies to inspect the newcomers, all talking at once. Laura was particularly struck by how like Mark as a baby young Adam was. She still loved her one time fianc\u00e9 and knew him better than any other outsider so she knew just how much his sister-in-law\u2019s gesture would have meant to him. By the time the men came back down Ben was organizing coffee while Carole cuddled her cousin\u2019s daughter, Meg had Johnny, Laura had Adam, while Nita was holding Anne and Sue had Marie who didn\u2019t want to be left out. The two sets of twins were considering each other very solemnly much to the adults\u2019 amusement. Mark and David were very puzzled by the two identical little girls.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam went over to his sons and much to Will and Laura\u2019s surprise he introduced Eve and Dawn, quite correctly without any hesitation, despite the gap of nearly a year since he\u2019d seen them. Mark frowned, \u201cBut Daddy they look the same.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know Mark it is difficult but you\u2019ll learn to tell and you can always ask. They are twins like you and David but it sometimes happens that twins look just the same, identical, we call them. Why don\u2019t you and David take Eve and Dawn up to your playroom and show them your toys.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mark looked at his brother and without discussion the little boys made up their minds and each took one of the girls by the hand and led them upstairs. Laura couldn\u2019t resist giggling at the sight but Will turned to his cousin \u201cHow on earth did you tell them apart? Meg here sees them most days and she still gets them confused and its months since you\u2019ve seen them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged, \u201cI don\u2019t know Will. I\u2019ve never had any trouble. Eve is somehow quieter than Dawn.\u201d He grinned, \u201cAnyway I\u2019m getting very experienced with children of all shapes and sizes, we seem to be collecting them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNicely rounded family of your own, two of each.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know and I\u2019m quitting while I\u2019m ahead, no more.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d asked Laura, surprised by this change in attitude, \u201cWas there a problem with Anne?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam moved over to his daughter and stroked her head, not answering, \u201cI think I need some more coffee.\u201d He disappeared into the kitchen and Laura looked over at Carole, \u201cI\u2019m sorry wrong question obviously, I didn\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy fault.\u201d Joe said \u201cI should have filled you in on the way home but with the fire and everything it seems a long time ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole said, \u201cGo ahead Joe, I\u2019ll get Adam to help me move the cot for Elizabeth into Meg\u2019s room.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe waited until they\u2019d disappeared and then very briefly outlined what had happened. The high price that his brother had paid, thank God successfully to keep his wife and child, from the initial return after the fire to the long labour and the hours he sat with the baby day after day. Edwin listened in silence and went to pour a brandy as Joe finished. John and Bill were horrified but Laura was in tears and Will pulled her close. Ben took her hand, \u201cEasy now Laura, God was with them all and everything worked out well in the end, Carole and Anne are both fit and well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and wiped her eyes, \u201cOf course and now we are here to celebrate Christmas and enjoy ourselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo say nothing of getting a dose of culture.\u201d moaned Hoss at the prospect of the next two days. Jim laughed and as Laura looked up puzzled he said, \u201cTomorrow and Friday, Adam has a box at the new theatre. MacBeth tomorrow and we\u2019re finishing with Romeo and Juliet, which reminds me. It\u2019s about time we got t town or we\u2019ll be late for this evening\u2019s show.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Laura was delighted and ignored Will\u2019s groan. Hoss laughed at his cousin, \u201cYou should worry I\u2019ve been twice this week already.\u201d Sue punched him unconcerned, she knew that if Hoss really didn\u2019t want to go he\u2019d have said. Ben and Adam would have been perfectly adequate escorts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edwin refused to budge until he\u2019d seen Adam and Ben went to fetch his son, explaining briefly that Edwin was worried by what Joe had said. Adam hurried down and grinning at Laura and Will, he went through to reassure his old friend. Edwin put the empty glass down and glared at Adam, \u201cYou go from one lot of trouble slap bank into the next, every time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure but I get out of it too! Look round Edwin, all of us including the babies are fit and well, nothing to worry about.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why you suddenly disappeared I suppose?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMemories, just memories. You know as well as I do that, coming unexpectedly, they can hurt. Soon passes. I have everything I ever wanted Edwin, all the people who mean most to me are here for Christmas. My brothers have their own families, Pa\u2019s fit and well and as Will said I have a nicely rounded family of my own.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edwin relaxed, \u201cI guess you do have everything. Okay Adam I\u2019ll stop fussing and get to town before Jim breaks a blood vessel.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two plays went off very well and Edwin provided a supper after the last performance for the cast and his friends, which everyone enjoyed, but Hoss and Joe were only really concerned with the christening the next day. They had been making the final arrangements that afternoon, determined that everything would be perfect, determined to make it a day to remember. They\u2019d given a lot of thought to the invitation list, limited by the numbers who could be fitted into the Washoe Club, but both were determined have their friends there, even if it wasn\u2019t diplomatic. They had made one concession to tact, asking MacKay and Fair with their wives, even though they were still annoyed at their whole attitude over the Bank\u2019s failure. Thus quite a number of hands were surprised to get an invitation, not just Jess and Jos\u00e9 but Jack Catfish, Stevens and several other men, who had proved to be good friends and whom they had relied on that year. In fact they had very few disagreements over the list.<\/p>\n

On the Saturday Roy had offered the use of his house so that they could feed and change the children before the service at 3 o\u2019clock. With a bit of a struggle the whole party were on their way to town in good time, Joe busily organizing them much to Adam and Carole\u2019s quiet amusement. For once Adam was actually driving the surrey to give Carole a hand with the children. Ben had the twins in the back and Adam contrived to drive with Marie on his lap while Carole held Anne.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss had taken the other two surreys with Laura, Meg and the four girls to transport, to say nothing of Sue, Nita and the babies with changes of clothing for all the little ones. Edwin and Jim were using Carole\u2019s buggy while John and Bill rode. Hoss had somehow found himself loading all the luggage and as he complained, it looked more like a fortnight\u2019s holiday than an evening in town. By some miracle, despite rushing around at Roy\u2019s at the last minute and the mess they\u2019d had to leave for later, the whole family was in church at ten to three with all of the children neat and tidy momentarily at least. The two sets of twins were getting on famously, the boys although younger were on home ground and very advanced for their age and they were firmly in charge. They were busily telling Eve and Dawn what would happen, much to the amusement of the nearby adults. Only about half of those who would be joining them for the meal and party in the evening were actually attending the church, but for Hoss and Joe it was the important part, even if most of their time had been used arranging the party. They were both in their own way religious, not the outer forms of religion, but the faith and trust in God which had supported them so often in extreme danger. The actual church ceremony was very much a family affair,<\/p>\n

with the other two brothers acting as Godfathers and Carole with Sue as Godmothers. As they brought the two babies to God the family wasn\u2019t aware of anyone else apart from the Vicar. Ben was looking after his eldest son\u2019s children with some help from Laura and yet he was very involved in the simple ceremony round the font, feeling warm at the evident closeness of all his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss had asked for a hymn to finish the ceremony and Ben found himself incapable of joining in, too big a lump in his throat, his sons all with children of their own and all so very content and happy. He was glad of Marie\u2019s questions to distract him and by the time the family rejoined him he was firmly in control. The next half an hour was chaotic as all the women who really wanted to see the babies came up, with old friends coming to see Will and Laura.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Gradually the brothers got a little order into proceedings and began to get people moving over towards the Washoe club. Adam had made use of his friends and sent John and Bill with Jess back to Roy\u2019s to tidy up and bring back their bags to the small rooms off the main dining room at the Washoe Club. Joe was busy making sure everyone had a drink while Hoss got Sue and Nita some privacy to feed the babies.<\/p>\n

Eventually Joe got everyone seated ready for the meal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had settled quietly in a corner with Edwin, Carole and his children along with his other old friends. He was determined that this day of all days should belong to his brothers. He was going to propose a toast to the new babies, as Godfather to both that had to be his job, but for the rest Hoss and Joe were in charge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everything went very smoothly, the difficulties of the new building had slowly been ironed out and the staff had got used to it. With plenty of warning of numbers and the menu required they rose admirably to the occasion and the brothers hadn\u2019t spared any expense. Without being ostentatious the food was excellent and the drink top quality with plenty of choice in each. Everyone wanted to help the Cartwrights celebrate, all old friends and all remembering very clearly the tragedy which had robbed Joe of a wife and child so swiftly four years before. The two brothers were both so obviously pleased with themselves and with everything that had happened that they dominated proceedings, despite the presence of the famous actor fresh from his successful week at the Opera House. Sue and Nita were almost continually by their husbands\u2019 sides and they weren\u2019t left out. Late in the evening as Edwin whirled Carole off to the dance floor, Adam gravitated over to his father standing watching, nursing a brandy, \u201cVery much my brothers\u2019 day. I\u2019ve seldom seen them both so happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I\u2019ve just been watching them and the girls. It\u2019ll soon be Christmas Day, we\u2019ll have to break up the party.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo be continued with the closest friends tomorrow and virtually everybody on Boxing Day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMmm. Do you know what I\u2019d like to do as we are in town anyway?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled at his father, \u201cGo back to church for the midnight service.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was surprised to find himself so easily read and then laughed at himself for his surprise; he should be used to his eldest son. Adam said musingly, \u201cI think it would round the day off nicely. We have so much to thank God for this year. I\u2019ll see what Carole says but I\u2019d like to come with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he broached the subject with Carole, the biggest problem being the children, the rest of the family and their immediate friends gathered round, all aware that the evening had to come to an end soon with Christmas morning already on them. It was quickly decided, Will and Laura with help from Meg and John would take the three older children and all the luggage home. Edwin, Jim, John and Bill were going too and would help out with Peggy and the twin girls. The seven Cartwrights with the three babies would go to church, keeping one surrey and borrowing horses from John and Bill to get home afterwards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt slightly guilty as the party broke up rapidly but his youngest son came over with his arm round Nita who was holding their sleeping son. \u201cThis is a gorgeous idea Pa. Fitting ending to a day which wasn\u2019t just a celebration but in some way a thank you to God for his mercy and a dedication of Adam to all you brought us up to believe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was much moved and seeing Hoss nod in agreement, he linked arms with his younger sons, \u201cWe\u2019re all so very lucky.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

If the Vicar was surprised to see the family back he didn\u2019t show it and their strong voices were particularly welcome on the beautiful Christmas carols which surrounded the communion service. All seven went together to take communion and seeing the three girls kneeling next to each other, all holding a baby, the Cartwrights weren\u2019t the only ones to have to choke down a surge of emotion. It seemed so fitting, at this the service to commemorate the birth of Christ so many years before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As they rode home Hoss drove with Sue next to him, Joe squeezing in between Nita and Carole in the back seat while Ben and Adam rode close one either side. Adam began softly to sing \u2018Silent Night\u2019, the others all listened in silence, enjoying his rich brown voice but then they all joined in on other favourite carols. Then, just before Ben turned off to leave them, he asked \u201cSing \u2018Silent Night\u2019 again Adam, it fits so well just now.\u201d Indeed as they looked around in the clear moonlight they seemed to have the world to themselves, their ranch so very beautiful. This time Adam didn\u2019t sing so softly, using the full power and depth of his voice, but its tone was always so very melodic and as he finished the last notes seemed to hang in the air. Nita was crying very softly on Joe\u2019s shoulder but she insisted that it was just because she was so very happy. The party split up and headed home to get a few hours sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There had been some discussion where they should congregate on Christmas Day; the usual Boxing Day party would be at the main house. Hoss and Joe were both tempted but with the babies born so recently and the inevitable arrangements to be made in advance both had decided not to risk overtaxing their wives. The future stretched ahead over many years and with their sons safely born they could look forward with real confidence to many more Christmases. Carole was very happy to have everyone over and with all the current guests in the house anyway it did make sense. Nearly everything had been arranged with Hop Sing in charge of the other three Chinese, even though it was Kam Su\u2019s house but Adam had been insistent that the tree be left for him. Once Anne and Carole were tucked up in bed, he went down to decorate the tree. Edwin was still up and he handed things to Adam as he wanted them, chatting idly. With his work complete Edwin had a chance to relax, a pleasant visit stretching ahead. Time passed rapidly as they talked and to his horror, on checking his watch, Adam found it was ten to four, barely worth going to bed. He hurried Edwin upstairs, promising to call him at nine and slipped in next to Carole, telling himself to wake at five-thirty to ensure everything was ready for the children, just as his father had done for the three of them, for so many years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In fact Ben hadn\u2019t been able to sleep much and with the house so quiet he decided to have a cup of coffee and go straight over to Adam\u2019s. Hop Sing had taken all the presents over the previous day and Ben knew that despite the early hour he would be working with Kam Su to make everything perfect for his family. Ben was over a little after six and found Adam washed, shaved and dressed but still rather blearily drinking coffee and attempting to wake up. The fires were lit, the decanters full, glasses shining and piles of presents threatening to topple over all round the tree. Adam wasn\u2019t surprised to see his father, \u201cMerry Christmas Pa and very many more of them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled, \u201cAt one time this year I was so sure that I wouldn\u2019t see this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe were all scared but you\u2019re too good a fighter and at least it can never recur.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam yawned and refilled his cup. Ben asked, \u201cDid you get to bed at all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor a couple of hours, got talking to Edwin. I\u2019m beginning to wish I hadn\u2019t bothered, still I\u2019ll wake up soon.\u201d Adam was a truer prophet than he knew. He\u2019d barely finished speaking when a babble of excited voices came from the stairs as both sets of twins and Marie ran down to join them. They were all for attacking the presents at once but accepted Daddy\u2019s ruling that they must wait for all their Uncles and Aunts to arrive.<\/p>\n

Carole and Anne, Meg and Elizabeth were next down, rather sleepily and more interested in coffee than presents.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By seven-thirty everyone was up and round the breakfast table and long before they had finished Hoss, Sue and Johnny had arrived with Joe\u2019s family not far behind.<\/p>\n

Adam went up to call Edwin, not admitting to him that it was an hour ahead of schedule, but it wasn\u2019t fair to make the children wait too long.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The babies were all far too young to understand and Peggy was trying hard to stand on her dignity but the other five children were so excited and delighted with everything that they were a real joy to watch. Adam perched on the arm of Carole\u2019s chair watching her help Marie unwrap a doll from Joe; he looked up and happened to catch his father\u2019s eye. \u201cChristmas belongs to children. However much thought we put into presents for each other and however delighted we are, there\u2019s nothing like the joy of a child.\u201d Ben wasn\u2019t arguing, none of the adults has even touched their presents yet. None of them were short of anything and it was increasingly difficult to find special gifts, but the children were different.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After about an hour as things calmed down the adults turned their attention to gifts. Hoss had found a beautiful diamond and emerald necklace, bracelet, pendant and two pairs of earrings for Sue, just as he once promised, and Joe had opted for a similar set in sapphire and diamond for Nita. Adam on the other hand had found a dozen slim volumes, printed on vellum of Carole\u2019s favourite poets, including John Donne and a couple of metaphysical poets. He\u2019d had them on order since the spring and she was delighted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In fact all of them were well pleased with the varied selection of books, clothes and oddments they received. This year it was definitely Joe\u2019s turn to do the unexpected. He had managed to get hold of a particular antique gun for his father\u2019s collection, which Ben had long hankered after. For his brothers he had found two pairs of very beautiful glass statuettes, from a short-lived millionaire who had lost everything in the stock market collapse. The four were fairly similar but different in style, the taller more willowy pair he gave to Adam. The statuettes seemed to shimmer in the light, almost as though the figures were moving. None of them had seen anything quite like them before and both Hoss and Adam were delighted as they made very clear.<\/p>\n

They had barely finished opening presents when Hop Sing was ordering everything to be moved from the table and Adam turned his attention to sherries for all who wanted, even allowing the twins a tiny glass of watered down sherry to their delight at being like the big folks. Everyone pitched in to help and in a remarkably short time, the rubbish was in a big bag, everything piled up by the walls and the table laid ready for Christmas dinner. Hoss grinned, \u201cAmazing what hunger does for you.\u201d Then as Johnny started to cry, the grin disappeared and consternation spread across his face. He picked up his son, \u201cYou can\u2019t be hungry, you were only fed two hours ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat never stopped you being hungry big brother.\u201d Joe pointed out and Hoss shook his fist at his brother. Johnny stopped crying now he\u2019d got attention, he wasn\u2019t hungry just awake and he had no intention of being put down. Hoss gave way to his son and grinned at Adam, \u201cMaybe it\u2019s a good thing I got so practiced eating one handed with your brats.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t repay the favour, I\u2019m carving.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were always good at finding excuses.\u201d Hoss commented but holding the baby in one arm, didn\u2019t seem to affect the amount or the speed with which he ate. By the end of the meal, Anne and Adam had caught onto an obviously good idea and both Joe and Adam had joined Hoss, managing one handed. Elizabeth slept peacefully but as Ben said, she wasn\u2019t a Cartwright and maybe knew how to behave herself!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The adults sat back during the afternoon, overfed and lazy watching the children play.<\/p>\n

Even Peggy had come off her high horse and inveigled Joe, Nita and her father into a complicated game she\u2019d been given. She had sole possession of the rules and as Joe complained kept altering them to suit herself, but none of them really cared.<\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss both decided to help when it came to bath time and Ben went up to watch in amusement, as his sons got their orders on what to do. Joe in particular got very wet but he was grinning happily at the tiny mite kicking in the water, his son. Hoss found it rather easier, Johnny seemed more cooperative and his hands were bigger to handle the slippery baby.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It seemed very quiet when the children were put to bed, all tired out and asleep before their fond parents left the room. Adam stood watching his four, his arm round Carole, \u201cIt\u2019s been a day to remember darling, we\u2019re so very lucky.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole wasn\u2019t arguing and they went down to join their friends and relatives. Adam was thinking hard and he went to get a brandy before sitting down next to Carole and pulling her onto his lap. He looked round very solemnly not realizing the attention he was attracting, so many friends and relatives. There were others that he was fond of but nearly all of those who meant most to him were present. He felt a little guilty it was a long time since Carole had seen her parents, or any relatives except for Meg. He suddenly said, \u201cCarole would you like to go back east, see your parents. It doesn\u2019t take long now, we could be back in six weeks or so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole was taken aback, \u201cWhy suddenly now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust seeing all my relatives here, your parents haven\u2019t even seen the children, it seemed unfair.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI haven\u2019t complained.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you should have done. What do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole thought about it for a minute but then shook her head, \u201cNo it would be hard on the children, especially the twins. What I will do if you are happy about it, is invite my parents to come and stay for a while during the summer when you\u2019re busy. At our expense.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know they\u2019d be very welcome if that\u2019s what you want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s what I want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hesitated a moment but then he said, \u201cIt\u2019s fine by me but if it isn\u2019t just the children, there\u2019s nothing to stop us going east for six or seven weeks. It should be very quiet after Christmas, nothing to hold me here. I think we\u2019ve even had our share of emergencies for a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d Carole said firmly, \u201c\u201dEven if I forget the children I don\u2019t really want to leave home at the moment. It\u2018s been a hectic and worrying year, I just want a quiet few weeks at home just us.\u201d Adam relaxed at that, delighted with her reaction, it was all he really wanted and he pulled her close.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

However Adam\u2019s suggestion had made both his brothers think and Joe was the first<\/p>\n

to take up the idea, \u201cHow about you Nita? Young Adam is easy to travel with at the moment, you must have friends in New York and as Adam says there\u2019s nothing to tie us to the ranch for the next couple of months. Would you like to take a trip east?\u201d<\/p>\n

Nita gave him a big hug, \u201cThanks for the offer darling but there\u2019s nothing in New York worth a tenth of the view from that window. You\u2019ll be busy again in the spring. I\u2019m like Carole I just want to be with you and our son in our own home. I still find it hard to believe I\u2019m part of this beautiful land and I don\u2019t want to leave it, not even for a few weeks, not yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes lit up with delight, he\u2019d been so worried that she wouldn\u2019t adapt and yet of all the girls she had come to feel as strongly about the land he loved as he did and he kissed her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss met Sue\u2019s eye and she grinned guessing what he was going to say but in fact Hoss surprised her. \u201cAdam and Joe are right and they could do my share for a while, even come spring. I know they wouldn\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you getting at darling?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve never met your parents; maybe we ought to take Johnny on a trip over to Ireland. Adam and Carole went with the twins where they were very young and he\u2019s a good baby. Take you back home for a visit and let me see if it\u2019s as pretty as that picture.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt would take too long.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam broke in, \u201cHoss is right, the three of us can manage and you\u2019ve earnt a trip if you want to go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sue smiled at the three men, she had no doubts that each of them would work themselves into the ground to ensure that the trip was possible and for a minute she toyed with the idea. It was more than ten years since she\u2019d been back to Ireland or seen her parents, brothers and sister. She still kept in touch with regular letters, maybe four to six a year but she found it very hard to remember exactly what they looked like. She tried to imagine going home but it didn\u2019t mean anything. She was already home, her family had never been close, not like the one that she was part of now. Certainly the scenery at home had seemed lovely but she had a shrewd suspicion it would seem very ordinary after the Ponderosa. She wondered if she could tempt her parents to leave home and travel half way round the world. Hoss sat watching the various reactions chasing themselves across her face, but he couldn\u2019t predict her decision. Eventually she put her arms round his neck, kissed him, \u201cI love you Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss kissed her soundly but then pulled away slightly, \u201cYeah, well I know that pet but it ain\u2019t exactly an answer. Do you want me to book a cabin over to Ireland?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I will write and try to get my parents to come for a visit like Carole but I don\u2019t want to go back. Maybe one day but I won\u2019t take any risks with Johnny.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carole looked up at that, \u201cIt was just bad luck Sue. David and I could have caught diphtheria here just as easily.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know that but you had Joe along to help. If anything happened, then here we have the whole family. When he\u2019s over a year, maybe I\u2019ll pluck up the courage. Anyway Johnny is only part of the reason. I\u2019m like Nita, I\u2019ve found a home at last, security and safety. I guess I need a while to believe in my luck before I venture into the outside world, I\u2019ve seen enough of that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben poured himself a brandy and moved over to the mantelpiece, shaking his head in disbelief. \u201cI\u2019d like to make a toast.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Most of them had a drink of some description and Adam refilled a couple of glasses. Ben waited until Adam had settled back again with Carole on his lap and then he said, \u201cChristmas day with family and friends is hardly the time for speeches but I can\u2019t just ignore what has been said. So many people have sympathized with us on occasion, stuck out in the wilderness, in a cultural backwater, fighting for survival and automatically in their minds being reduced to savages. None of you here feel that way or you wouldn\u2019t have gathered here for Christmas. Maybe Nita\u2019s family have been the most outspoken about all the drawbacks and I\u2019ll admit over the years I have worried slightly whether my sons would find the sort of women that they could fall in love with, who would also accept this land. I think it\u2019s very obvious that all of them have been very lucky and chosen very wisely. I had hoped for acceptance but we have so much more. I believe this ranch means as much to Carole, Sue and Nita as it does to me and my sons, which is more than I could have ever dreamt. We are so very lucky and I\u2019d like to propose a toast to my three beautiful daughters To Carole, Sue and Nita.\u201d<\/p>\n

Everyone joined in that very willingly while the three girls blushed, but Ben went over and kissed each one. He was very fond of all of them and so thankful that his sons had all found such good wives.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was late when they finally split up and as Nita and Sue got the babies wrapped warmly, the three brothers gravitated together. They had all been delighted both by their wives reactions and their father\u2019s toast. Ben\u2019s sincerity had been very obvious and all knew he\u2019d have said more if they\u2019d been alone, but all agreed with him, they were indeed very lucky.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next morning the three brothers, dragging Will, Edwin, Jim, John and Bill along with them, went over to the main house to help Ben get ready for the party. They left the others to have a lazy morning after two late nights and the prospect of another one as the Boxing Day party always went on very late. A number of people would be staying over night so there were quite a lot of arrangements to make and the downstairs had to be rearranged for the buffet and dancing. It was nice to be able to abandon everything at lunchtime and go back to Adam\u2019s for a meal. The guests wouldn\u2019t be arriving until four and Ben insisted that with help from Jess, Jos\u00e9 and a couple of the other hands he could finish off easily. His sons should relax for a bit and get changed. With all the people staying over they would have to take the children home to bed eventually but Adam was insistent that Kam Su had as much right as any of the hands to join in the festivities; he\u2019d been working hard too. Hoss and Joe fully agreed and all four Chinese were joining in along with a few of Hop Sing\u2019s family from town. The brothers knew that the Chinese would stay together as a little clique and probably not leave the kitchen but they would enjoy themselves in their own way.<\/p>\n

The basic work was all done and there were plenty of willing hands to keep food and drink coming, washing up as necessary and they would all take a turn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The party had become an institution and nearly all the usual people were there, mainly back from wherever they had taken refuge after the fire. It had long been accepted that the hands join in, bringing any girls that they wanted and if the Cartwrights were considered eccentric, they\u2019d earnt the right. Even in the large main house and with dancing in the yard and in the barn it was crowded, with nearly 250 people around but all of them were enjoying it. Just occasionally Ben had a pang, missing Beth his partner at so many Boxing Day parties but with so many friends around there wasn\u2019t much time to miss her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Until mid-evening it all went much as usual with everyone having a good time but then Adam stopped by his father, mopping his brow after some intensive dancing. \u201cWhat\u2019s going on Pa? Any idea?\u201d He gestured over to a little group by the door in deep consultation, Will, Roy, Dan, Doc, Harris, Fair and MacKay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shrugged, he didn\u2019t know but it was fairly obvious that something was as Will, grinning broadly, began passing round drinks to anyone without one. Joe and Hoss had both spotted it too but Joe got a dusty answer from Will and they gravitated over to Adam and Ben with all three girls, just what Roy wanted all the Cartwrights together.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Will told the band to sound a roll on the drums and then he asked for silence. As they waited very puzzled the door opened and six men came in, each pair carrying a large box which they dumped on the floor. Ben met his sons’ eyes but all were equally puzzled and then Roy moved forward. \u201cIf I could jest have yer attention fer a couple of minutes. I\u2019m not much for speeches but jest occasionally things need saying. All of us in town, newcomers and old timers alike have come to rely pretty heavily on help from the Ponderosa whenever anything goes wrong. Twice this year we\u2019ve done it, first with the stock market collapse and bank failure and then more recent with the fire. Both at the actual time of the fire to save what we could and in the care of so many refugees. Many people here tonight were taken in by the Cartwrights. They gave up their own homes to outsiders, the men moved out of the bunkhouses and many spent long hours helping out at the camps on Mount Davidson. When it came to rebuilding you all know how much help the Ponderosa gave and I ain\u2019t gonna embarrass anyone by detailing it. Jest seemed fer once that we ought to say thank you. It would have been real easy fer everyone on the Ponderosa to sit back, get any necessities from Carson City or Reno and say the fire was nothing to do with them, like many others. Not jest for the help we\u2019ve had this year but over so many years, we brought a token.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy gestured at the boxes, \u201cOne of a real good brandy and one of French champagne. The other case is whisky for the bunkhouse and there are two more on the wagon. Still we don\u2019t need it right now and the toast is simple. Very many thanks and all good fortune in the year ahead to everyone on the Ponderosa. Virginia City is damned lucky you\u2019re here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone joined Roy very enthusiastically with \u2018hear, hear\u2019 and cries of \u2018good luck\u2019 resounding around the room. The four Cartwrights were completely taken aback, it was so unexpected and it meant so much. Carole went and poured two brandies and passed them to Adam and Ben as the cheers went on and on. \u201cOne of you is going to have to say something.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head, swallowing hard, \u201cI can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took the brandy and downed it in one, Carole was right someone had to answer. He lifted his hand for quiet and as everyone stood grinning at him, he put out his hands in a gesture of despair at finding the right words. \u201cI really don\u2019t know what to say, except that we all appreciate very much your kind words and we will appreciate the drinks. If we\u2019ve helped Virginia City, then it\u2019s only fair, we\u2019ve had help from town when we\u2019ve needed it. We have all prospered together and will I hope continue to do so. That\u2019s the way it should be between friends. Now I think that\u2019s enough speeches, we\u2019re here to enjoy ourselves so let\u2019s get on with it\u201d He signaled the band to start up again as the cases were dragged over to the wall. Dan and Roy came over to join the Cartwrights and Ben mopped his face, \u201cI ought to thump you Roy, springing that on us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy grinned, \u201cNeeded saying Ben, jest for once, even if did make you all go scarlet. I swear you\u2019d rather face a hail of bullets than a few words of thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned, sipping a brandy, \u201cSame reaction Roy, feel like running for cover. Looks like a real nice brandy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it is.\u201d Doc said as he joined them, \u201cI enjoy my brandy I cadge here so we couldn\u2019t provide an inferior quality.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy said, “Don\u2019t know what you want to do about drink in the bunkhouse but we wanted to thank the men too, they all worked damned hard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not usually allowed but we\u2019ve always turned a blind eye round Christmas and New Year and number one bunkhouse can do as it likes anyway. I trust Jos\u00e9 to keep an eye on things there. They all looked very pleased, I\u2019m glad that you included them. Not that I think any of us really deserve it. In a catastrophe everyone helps out as best they can.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dan shook his head, \u201cThat\u2019s just it Ben, you do but not everyone. A lot turn their backs if they aren’t involved and a lot more only help themselves. That\u2019s why, as Roy said, for once we felt we had to say thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben embarrassed again took his daughter out to dance but Carole just laughed at him. Roy and Dan were right and she for one was delighted at the gesture. Slowly as the dancing got under way again they were all able to calm down. With everyone nicely mellow, full and tired, the evening passed to everyone\u2019s satisfaction, one of the best Boxing Day parties they\u2019d had in many years, with a feeling of good fellowship between all the many guests. Noone wanted to break it up and it was well after one when the room began to clear as those going back to town took their leave. Most of the hands retreated to the bunkhouse and Ben ordered one final waltz, watching his sons all with eyes only for their lovely wives. Then the band began to pack up and those staying headed for their rooms. As they began collecting sleeping children from Ben\u2019s room to move the short distance home, Adam went over to his father, \u2018Do you want me to come back and help tidy up once the kids are in bed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo I shall leave it for tonight. In fact it\u2019s such a lovely night I thought I\u2019d take a ride once everyone has settled. It\u2019s been quite a day and I shan\u2019t sleep yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t query it, his father looked very peaceful but as he helped his brothers\u2019 load up their buggies he did mention Ben\u2019s words to both of them. None of them discussed it but once the children were settled and quiet each had a word with their wives. The girls were all tired and all said much the same, they\u2019d be asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow and if their husbands wanted to go for a ride there was nothing to stop them. Adam hesitated, with so many guests, not all ready for bed but Will could see what he wanted. He had overheard his Uncle\u2019s comment, \u201cGo on Adam, saddle Blackie and get some air. I\u2019ll see this lot to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Will.\u201d Adam wasn\u2019t surprised as he headed up towards the Lake when first Cochise and then Chub joined him. His brothers moved up one either side of him. The three didn\u2019t talk and didn\u2019t hurry, just a slow lope up towards the Lake. They had expected to find each other at the Lake, even if nothing had been said and just before they reached the Lake they saw Ben. Adam changed direction and cut down to join his father. Ben pulled up as he heard horses and he was grinning as his three sons came up to him. Ben didn\u2019t make any comment, just moving Buck on as Adam moved alongside him, his younger sons slipping in close behind. He hadn\u2019t intended keeping them from their beds but he was delighted to see them all. It was nice to have relatives and friends around over Christmas but just occasionally he missed the quiet companionship the four of them had known for so long. He\u2019d always wanted his sons to marry and find true fulfillment with homes and children of their own. He knew he was so much luckier than the majority of men with all his sons contentedly settled on their ranch but just sometimes he remembered the old days. The four of them together in an all male household and they\u2019d been good years too; not that he wanted to go back, especially as he looked at his sons, all so very peaceful and happy. Still the mere fact that they\u2019d come to join him now gave him a warm feeling and he prayed their sons gave each as much happiness as they\u2019d given him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the point they all dismounted and tied up the horses. Joe went over to kneel by Marie\u2019s grave while his father went to Beth\u2019s and his own Marie\u2019s. Hoss met his eldest brother\u2019s eye, \u201cGuess I\u2019ve been lucky, never had to bury anyone particularly mine, several I\u2019ve loved but not a wife or a child.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think I want to remember that tonight, Hoss. Come on lets go up to the point. We have so many blessings to count that the few sorrows do fade in time.\u201d Adam put his arm round his big brother\u2019s shoulders and they stood close together watching the Lake so very lovely in the moonlight. Hoss smiled, \u201cFunny I was so worried when you first got married, didn\u2019t want my life disrupted, it seemed enough the four of us.<\/p>\n

Guess I didn\u2019t know what I was missing, didn\u2019t dare let myself think about it. Now we\u2019re all married, all fathers and yet in some strange way I think we\u2019re closer than we\u2019ve ever been.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Joe had come up unnoticed behind the brothers and they overheard Hoss\u2019 comment. Ben gripped his big son\u2019s arm and with his other arm round his youngest son\u2019s shoulders he tried to find the words to tell his three sons what they meant to him. He couldn\u2019t find the words, not realizing it was totally unnecessary, his feelings were etched on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe said \u201cFor someone who claims to be bad with words Hoss, you manage to put your finger on it every time. Maybe it\u2019s only now that we have our own children that we can really appreciate just how lucky we\u2019ve always been, just how much Pa did for us all.\u201d He grinned affectionately at his father, \u201cGuess it\u2019s the day for saying thanks Pa, not that there\u2019s any real way. I\u2019m still the baby here so I have to thanks to all three of you, but it has to be you mainly Pa. I just hope I\u2019m as successful with my son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked from one to another of his sons, squeezing Joe\u2019s shoulder, \u201cNo need for thanks, except maybe to God, we are so very lucky. We have all this beauty and most important each other, with wives and children who are all fit in so well. Sometimes we seem to get more than our share of trouble, you\u2019ve all been hurt in many ways but God has never deserted us. When we can stand here like this, knowing the next generation is sleeping peacefully on the Ponderosa, it doesn\u2019t seem possible any four men could be so very fortunate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

None of his sons knew how to answer that and for several minutes the four men stood in silence, very close together, so aware of the presence of those they loved and the beauty of the Lake as it shimmered in the moonlight, typifying the land they\u2019d made their own. It was very late and they\u2019d all had several long days but none of them were tired, just conscious of great peace and contentment.<\/p>\n

Joe broke the silence, not even realizing he was speaking aloud, the psalm which had so often run through his thoughts ever since Marie died, seemed so very fitting.<\/p>\n

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want,<\/p>\n

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures,<\/p>\n

He leadeth me beside the still waters,<\/p>\n

He restored my soul,<\/p>\n

He leaded me in the paths of righteousness for his names\u2019 sake,<\/p>\n

Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,<\/p>\n

I will fear no evil for thou art with me<\/p>\n

Thy rod and thy staff comfort me,<\/p>\n

Thou prepareth a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;<\/p>\n

Thou anointest my head with oil,<\/p>\n

My cup runneth over<\/p>\n

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life<\/p>\n

And I shall dwell in the House of the Lord forever.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled at his youngest brother, \u201cMy cup runneth over.\u201d He nodded slowly, \u201cIt\u2019s strange how some moments you know you\u2019ll never forget. A lot, sorrow and happiness merge into the past but some things remain ever clear in your mind\u2019s eye. This Christmas with the christening of my godsons has thrown up more than its share of such memories. It just seems so right that the four of us should end it here, together, in our church.\u201d The other three knew exactly what he meant and all four tried in their own ways to than God for his mercy, so very conscious of the closeness of all tat they loved. Adam said, \u201cJoe quoted the psalm, there\u2019s another piece I love.<\/p>\n

To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven,<\/p>\n

A time to be born and a time to die,<\/p>\n

A time to love and a time to hate,<\/p>\n

A time of war and a time of peace.<\/p>\n

It goes on I know that there is no good in man but for a man to rejoice to do good in his life and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. Someone once said, \u2018To those to whom much is given, from them much is required.\u2019 and noone has been given more than us. All we can do is try and fulfil the second part.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled affectionately at all his sons, \u201cYou all do, that why I\u2019m so very proud.\u201d<\/p>\n

His sons were equally proud of him and Adam said it for them all, \u201cWe can only act as you brought us up to act Pa. I looked up that quote Hoss came out with. Despite all the troubles and problems, with doubtless more to come. but we can face the future together because I think we\u2019ve all found that peace of God which passeth all understanding.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

None of them could argue with that, whatever the future brought this Christmas would remain with them. A time of fulfillment and happiness for all the family and in the future as in the past they would help each other through problems back to this peace. Very content closely bound by deep ties of love the four men stood watching the moon shimmering on the dark mysterious reaches of the Lake and sparkling on the snow capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada; for them at least, there could be no more beautiful spot on God\u2019s Earth.<\/p>\n

THE END<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: The Cartwrights celebrate their luck with their close friends, despite some embarrassment.
\nRating: PG\u00a0 \u00a0(26,300 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":63,"featured_media":41001,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[7,23,1008],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-63291","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-drama","category-family","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":75,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":49277,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=49277","url_meta":{"origin":63291,"position":0},"title":"The Cartwright Family (by LindaBl)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"May 22, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Synopsis:\u00a0A cute new song about the Cartwrights Rating:\u00a0 G\u00a0 Words:\u00a0 270","rel":"","context":"In "Family"","block_context":{"text":"Family","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1008"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":49892,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=49892","url_meta":{"origin":63291,"position":1},"title":"The Savage (WHN) (by Katie)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"August 6, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 An alternate ending to the episode, The Savage Rating:\u00a0 Teen\u00a0 (775\u00a0 Words)","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":49897,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=49897","url_meta":{"origin":63291,"position":2},"title":"Hoss’ Meditation (by Katie)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"July 25, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 I think we underestimated Hoss Cartwright Rating: G\u00a0 (690 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Hoss Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Hoss Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1006"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":60983,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=60983","url_meta":{"origin":63291,"position":3},"title":"Better After Death (by Cas008)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"December 2, 2006","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: A ghost from Adam's past returns with memories of love. 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