{"id":7133,"date":"2002-09-04T15:14:43","date_gmt":"2002-09-04T19:14:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7133"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:34:08","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:34:08","slug":"amidst-the-winter-snow","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7133","title":{"rendered":"Amidst The Winter Snow (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Out checking on the herd, Joe follows some tracks and finds an injured Indian girl. Will his gallantry cost him more than he is prepared to pay?<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T (10,425 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amidst The Winter Snow<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t take all day,\u201d Ben Cartwright warned. \u201cThose clouds could dump more snow any minute!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, Pa,\u201d laughed Joe, his youngest son. \u201cI think I might recognise snow when I see it!\u201d He ducked the mock blow his father aimed at his head. \u201cI\u2019ll be back in time for supper, I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d rather you were back before then,\u201d Ben protested. \u201cTake care, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBye, Pa,\u201d Joe called. He mounted his pinto gelding in one smooth, easy leap, and rode out of the yard with a wave.<\/p>\n

The barn door opened, and Adam, the oldest of the Cartwright boys, came out. \u201cIs that Joe gone?\u201d he asked. When his father nodded, he said, \u201cPa, do you think it\u2019s wise letting Joe go off alone?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t start that again,\u201d Ben said, wearily. \u201cJoe is perfectly capable of taking care of himself. He\u2019s only going to check the herd, and he\u2019ll be back before dark. Why do you persist in running him down?\u201d Normally, Ben ignored the discord between the brothers, as he knew it covered a deep, abiding affection. But in this Christmas season, Adam was reacting to the break-up of a love affair, and was taking it out on Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t running him down,\u201d Adam said, shortly. \u201cI was being concerned for his safety. Or at least I thought I was!\u201d With that remark, he turned on his heel and returned to the barn, slamming the door in the process. Ben sighed, and shook his head. If it wasn\u2019t one son being moody, it was another. At least Hoss could usually be relied upon to keep an even temper. But the way it was going, Ben wouldn\u2019t be surprised to find Hoss all wound up about something. Shivering slightly in the frigid air, Ben went back into the house.
\n________________________________________
\nThe air was freezing, despite the sun shining off the snow. Joe kept his hat well down over his face. He knew the dangers of snow blindness all too well. The snow was deep and soft, carpeting the land with shimmering ice crystals. Joe loved it when the weather was like this. It answered something elemental in his mercurial nature. Christmas wasn\u2019t far away, and just for once, Joe was all ready. His gifts for his family were hidden in his room, and he was resisting the temptation to go rooting around in closets. The only cloud on Joe\u2019s horizon was Adam\u2019s bad temper, and he was putting up with it as equably as he knew how. The unfortunate thing was, he wasn\u2019t very equable! With a wry smile, Joe knew he would have to try harder to keep his temper. It was a battle he fought – and lost – constantly.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t long before Joe reached the pasture where the herd was sheltering out the winter. There was plenty of feed put out for them, and they looked in good condition. Joe had a quick word with the men, then started back towards home. He was in no hurry. The snow was drifted high in places, and Joe didn\u2019t want to risk damage to Cochise\u2019s legs. Every so often, he stopped, dismounted, and cleared the packed snow out of his horse\u2019s hooves. He had greased the inside of Cochise\u2019s hooves before leaving, but the snow was exactly the right kind for building snowmen, throwing snowballs, and balling in horse\u2019s hooves!<\/p>\n

Deep tracks in the snow caught Joe\u2019s attention as he rode gently homeward. Pulling up, he saw they crossed his tracks from earlier. They were obviously human, and Joe was curious. Who in their right mind would be out walking in snow like this if they didn\u2019t have to? He turned Cochise in a circle, while he tried to work out which direction the tracks were going in. He decided they were headed away from the house, across the mesa. Thoroughly intrigued, Joe followed them.<\/p>\n

For a time, the going was quite good for the gelding, but they began to hit deeper pockets of snow, and Joe decided he ought to turn back. The clouds had covered the sun, and the temperature had dropped quite noticeably. Joe pulled Cochise to a stop, and slid out of the saddle to clean his hooves once more. As he straightened from cleaning the last one, he heard a scream.<\/p>\n

It came from in front of him, Joe decided. From the direction the tracks were headed. Joe didn\u2019t hesitate. He tethered Cochise, and plunged into the snow. He had snowshoes on his saddle, but he hated using them, and he feared if he stopped to put them on, the person might be in worse trouble or danger.<\/p>\n

Round a snow-covered lump of brush, Joe came to a steep slope. At the bottom of it lay a girl, wrapped in a brightly coloured blanket. She was unmoving, and Joe could see from the marks on the slope that she had fallen down it. Carefully, he slid down it on his butt, cursing as the cold and wet seeped into his pants.<\/p>\n

The girl was an Indian, he noticed, as he knelt by her. She opened her eyes at his approach and looked frightened. \u201cEasy,\u201d Joe soothed. \u201cI won\u2019t hurt you.\u201d He wasn\u2019t sure if she spoke English or not, but he knew his tone would reassure her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe Cartwright,\u201d he said. \u201cAre you hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d she said, and pointed to her ankle. Her English didn\u2019t appear to cover that.<\/p>\n

The ankle in question was undoubtedly sprained. It was swelling rapidly, and turning black with bruising. \u201cWell, you can\u2019t stay here,\u201d Joe said. \u201cI\u2019ll take you home. Where is your lodge?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI manage,\u201d she said, with great dignity. She pushed away the hand Joe was offering her, and tried to rise. The moment she put weight on her injured limb, it buckled under her. Joe caught her.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, let me help,\u201d he said. \u201cI don\u2019t even know your name.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSpring Moon,\u201d she answered. In halting English, she told Joe where her lodge was.<\/p>\n

By the time they got back to Cochise, snow was falling softly. Joe thought of his promise to be home in time for supper, and knew that he was about to break it. But he couldn\u2019t take Spring Moon back to the Ponderosa. She had almost had hysterics when he suggested it, and he gathered that her family didn\u2019t know where she had gone. Settling her on the saddle in front of him, Joe headed back along her tracks.<\/p>\n

He was well aware of the risk he was taking. These were not Piautes, or even Shoshone. He wasn\u2019t certain which tribe they were. It meant that he wouldn\u2019t be known to them, which made his mission of mercy more dangerous. They might be angry that he had touched one of their squaws. Still, he couldn\u2019t leave her alone in the snow.<\/p>\n

The snow got steadily thicker, although it mercifully wasn\u2019t a blizzard. Joe did his best to keep the snow out from under his collar, but he never succeeded. Finally, they came to a place where the snow was too deep for Cochise, and Joe dismounted. \u201cWe\u2019ll have to leave the horse here,\u201d he said. \u201cIts not far to your lodge now, is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot far,\u201d Spring Moon agreed. \u201cI manage.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grinning, Joe said, \u201cWe\u2019ve had this conversation already. Let me help you.\u201d He tethered Cochise loosely to a bush, and pulled his blanket up over his neck. \u201cI\u2019ll be back, soon, Coochie,\u201d he said, giving the horse an affectionate slap.<\/p>\n

They set off, the Indian girl leaning heavily on the young white man. Joe couldn\u2019t help but notice how beautiful she was. Her skin was smooth and olive coloured, and her eyes were large and dark. Her hair was loose, held back from her face by a beaded headband. He wondered how old she was. Younger than himself, certainly, but only by a few years.<\/p>\n

The going was tiring, and it wasn\u2019t long before Spring Moon could hardly stand upright. Joe could feel her slowing, and although he was tired himself, he decided they would never get to the lodge before dark if he didn\u2019t do something about it. So he stopped, and scooped her into his arms. At once, Spring Moon let out a startled yell, and began to struggle.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, take it easy!\u201d Joe said, laughing. \u201cYou\u2019ll have us both down in the snow if you don\u2019t watch out.\u201d<\/p>\n

They hadn\u2019t gone more than a few steps when an arrow hissed through the air and thudded into a tree by Joe\u2019s head. He froze. Spring Moon was still struggling, but she looked frightened again, her eyes wide and the pupils dilated. From behind a tree a few steps away, two young braves appeared. They were about the same age as Joe, and were obviously experienced warriors. One had another arrow on his bowstring, and it was aimed at Joe. \u201cPut her down, pale face,\u201d the other said, and his voice dripped with menace.<\/p>\n

Moving carefully, Joe put Spring Moon on her feet. He didn\u2019t let go of her, because he knew she would fall if he did, but he made it clear he was only steadying her. The arrow was pointing straight at his heart. Joe\u2019s mouth was dry.<\/p>\n

The brave came closer, and took Spring Moon\u2019s arm. Immediately, a rush of words that Joe didn\u2019t understand poured out, and he assumed she was explaining. The brave looked singularly unconvinced. He jerked his head at the other brave, who came closer, still with the arrow cocked. \u201cDo not try to escape,\u201d said the first brave. \u201cOr I will cut your heart out.\u201d Joe believed him, and stood motionless as his hands were tied tightly behind his back, and he was blindfolded.<\/p>\n

A hand grabbed his arm, and pulled, and Joe stumbled forward. The journey from there on was a nightmare for him, as his guide made no effort to steer him round rough places. He was tiring rapidly as he stumbled through the snow. Joe hoped they would reach the lodge soon, whatever the fate he faced. He didn\u2019t want to be too exhausted to defend himself.<\/p>\n

Finally, after an indeterminate time, they stopped. Joe could hear a fire crackling near by, and smell food cooking. His stomach growled, reminding him it was suppertime. A deep male voice, with a timbre that suggested age, spoke from behind him. Spring Moon answered, her voice high and anxious. There was the sound of a blow. Joe flinched, although it wasn\u2019t aimed at him.<\/p>\n

The blindfold was snatched off, and Joe blinked rapidly to clear his vision. It was dusk, and the sky was dark with unfallen snow. Joe could smell the dusty, metallic odour on the wind. It smelt like a storm was coming. The only light came from the fires scattered about the clearing.<\/p>\n

If the braves had blindfolded Joe to prevent him from knowing where he was, they had failed. Joe knew instantly his location. They were only a few short miles from the big house. He looked around, and saw the braves who had taken him captive, and Spring Moon, crumpled in a sobbing heap on the ground. Joe\u2019s temper flared, instantly, but he held himself in check. He felt someone looking at him, and turned his head to see an older warrior standing just behind him.<\/p>\n

For a moment, they looked at one another, and Joe\u2019s eyes widened. Although he was not sure of the man\u2019s name, he had often seen him around Virginia City. He was a Piaute, though not one of Winnemucca\u2019s band. A quick glance at Spring Moon confirmed Joe\u2019s thoughts. The beading on the girl\u2019s clothing wasn\u2019t Piaute.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe Cartwright,\u201d said the older man. \u201cI am Red Cloud.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRed Cloud, I know your face,\u201d Joe said. \u201cI did not mean to dishonour your camp. I came only to return the girl, who was hurt in a fall.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know this of your family,\u201d Red Cloud said. \u201cWinnemucca speaks often of your family. I see your words are true.\u201d<\/p>\n

A surge of relief swept over Joe. He smiled at Red Cloud. \u201cI thank you for your words,\u201d he responded.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d interrupted the brave who had tied Joe up. \u201cYou cannot let him go. He has seen the position of the lodge. He will bring the war party to us!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what you\u2019re talking about,\u201d Joe said. \u201cAnd I wouldn\u2019t tell anyone where your lodge is. I give my word of honour!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll know white men cannot be trusted,\u201d the brave retorted. \u201cI, Eagle Claw, know this! White men lie. He will bring the war party down on us.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSome white men do lie,\u201d Joe agreed, angrily. \u201cBut not me! Winnemucca would vouch for me. Red Cloud has vouched for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRed Cloud does not lead this group,\u201d Eagle Claw hissed. \u201cWe await our leader\u2019s return.\u201d He swung round to face Red Cloud. \u201cWe keep him here until Running Bear comes.\u201d<\/p>\n

By now, other members of the tribe were clustered round listening. \u201cEagle Claw speaks wisely,\u201d said another older man. \u201cWait until Running Bear comes tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Out numbered, Red Cloud backed down. \u201cVery well. But he is not to be harmed!\u201d He turned a stony eyed glare on Eagle Claw and his friend.<\/p>\n

Alarmed, Joe began to fight against his bonds. He had no wish to stay until Running Bear appeared, even if Red Cloud had said he mustn\u2019t be harmed. Eagle Claw was clearly itching to do him some injury, and Joe didn\u2019t want to hang around to be proven right! It was a futile effort, as Eagle Claw didn\u2019t want to offer Joe any chance to escape. He clubbed Joe on the back of the neck, and he tumbled to the ground, barely conscious. He felt himself lifted, and was carried into one of the tepees. By the time he had his wits gathered together, he was firmly bound to one of the lodge poles, his legs stretched out in front of him and his feet bound to a stake in the ground. There was no chance he could escape!
\n________________________________________
\nAs the light faded, and the snow got thicker, Ben Cartwright began to be seriously worried about Joe. He picked at his supper in a way that reminded his oldest sons of their younger brother. It was impractical to go after Joe in the dark, but the falling snow would obliterate his tracks. Adam and Hoss soon gave up trying to distract him, and let him fret in silence.<\/p>\n

About 10 pm, Ben rose restlessly once again, and paced to the door, and opened it. He had done this several times over the course of the evening, each time hoping against hope that he would see Joe ride into the yard. The snow had stopped, and only about an inch had fallen. There was movement down by the barn, and Ben squinted through the dark. The shadow moved again, and Ben saw a flash of black. \u201cJoe!\u201d he exclaimed and headed out.<\/p>\n

But it wasn\u2019t Joe, just his horse. Cochise wasn\u2019t sweaty or lathered, and he had his blanket pulled up his neck, even if it was a bit squint. One rein trailed on the ground, and was soaking. His feet were full of snow. Ben drew the horse into the barn, where Hoss lit the lantern, and they checked the pinto over thoroughly. There was no sign of blood, which was a relief, in a way. But they were perplexed. If Joe had had an accident, who had blanketed the horse? If he hadn\u2019t had an accident, where on earth was he?<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get to bed,\u201d Ben suggested. \u201cWe need to make an early start in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll settle down Cochise,\u201d Hoss offered, and Ben gave him a grateful smile.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t long before the Ponderosa ranch house was in darkness, apart from a lantern burning on the porch, but none of the people in it slept very well.<\/p>\n

Come morning, the storm had closed in. The wind shrieked and howled as it blew round the house, and the cold seemed to seep into the normally snug building. The snow was swirling this way and that, and it was almost impossible to see the barn. There was no way they could risk going out looking for Joe in weather like this. If Joe had had some sort of unfortunate accident, and had been unable to find shelter, he would already be dead. None of the Cartwrights voiced this fear, but it was in their minds all the same. Ben sat at his desk, pretending to work, but in reality worrying. Adam and Hoss played endless games of checkers, but even that innocent pastime brought memories of Joe. When darkness fell again that afternoon, Joe was still missing, and the snow was still falling relentlessly.
\n________________________________________
\nThe entrance of the tepee flapped open, and an older woman entered. She carried a dish in her hands, and the smell caused Joe\u2019s stomach to growl. He was incensed to realise that he was to be fed his supper, but he was hungry, so submitted as gracefully as he could. His only other choice was to starve. The food was some kind of meat stew, venison, Joe thought, and was highly spiced and warming. He was offered water to drink, and after he was finished, he thanked the woman. The look on her face told him that, even if she hadn\u2019t understood his words, she had understood the intent.<\/p>\n

As the woman left, Eagle Claw came in. Joe tensed. He didn\u2019t trust the young brave, and he was in no position to defend himself. He kept a wary eye on the young man, as he circled round Joe, a gloating look on his handsome face. \u201cWhen Running Bear comes tomorrow, you will die, white man.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I die,\u201d Joe retorted, \u201cmy family will hunt you down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe cub has teeth,\u201d sneered the brave.<\/p>\n

Taking a grip on his temper, Joe said, \u201cI didn\u2019t come here to cause trouble, or to offer violence. I came to bring home an injured girl. I have no quarrel with you or your people.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will tell the war party where we are,\u201d insisted Eagle Claw. \u201cAll know that the white men hate the tribes! You would bring war on us to rid your land of us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Thoroughly angry now, Joe no longer even tried to hide it. His eyes flashed, and his nostrils flared. \u201cYou say white men are all the same. White men say Indians are all the same! You know that\u2019s not true, so why do you say the same thing about us? What have I done to you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou touched Spring Moon,\u201d Eagle Claw hissed. \u201cShe is mine. I took her from her people, and she will be my squaw. You touched her, and I do not know if she is still pure.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Joe said, incredulously. \u201cYou\u2019re unbelievable. Do you really think I would deliberately go out in weather like this to attack a young girl? Did you see any signs that I\u2019d harmed her? Well, did you?\u201d<\/p>\n

The brave didn\u2019t answer. However, that was answer enough. Joe shook his head. \u201cYou have a mind like a stagnant pond!\u201d he said, disgustedly. \u201cSpring Moon is a lovely girl, but I was only carrying her because she was hurt.\u201d He looked back at the brave. \u201cDon\u2019t judge everyone by yourself,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

As was often the case, Joe\u2019s mouth had run away with him. But he was furious at being accused of such a thing, when it was the last thing on his mind. Joe had known that the Indians probably wouldn\u2019t take kindly to him coming to their lodge, but he hadn\u2019t expected to be accused of rape! Eagle Claw jumped as though stung, and loomed threateningly over Joe. \u201cWhite men speak lies all the time!\u201d he asserted. \u201cYou dare talk to me like that!\u201d He backhanded Joe across the face.<\/p>\n

It was quite a blow. Joe\u2019s hat spun off and his head snapped back, bouncing off the pole he was tied to. He swallowed, and looked back at Eagle Claw. He could feel a trickle of blood running down his chin. \u201cYou\u2019re very brave when my hands are tied,\u201d he said. \u201cWould you be as brave if I was free?\u201d<\/p>\n

For a moment, Joe thought he\u2019d gone too far. But the tepee flap opened again, and Red Cloud came in. He looked at Eagle Claw standing threateningly over Joe, his fists clenched, and saw immediately what was going on. \u201cWhat are you doing?\u201d he hissed. \u201cMust you disgrace our tribe by striking this man with no challenge issued?\u201d<\/p>\n

Swinging round, Eagle Claw began a heated exchange with Red Cloud in their native tongue. Joe understood none of it. He sat and watched, feeling the blood drying on his face, wanting to wipe it away, but not doing it, in case it lowered his standing in some way. He wondered what his family was doing. He could hear the wind screaming outside the tepee, and the cold seeped up through the earth, and through the thin blanket he sat on. Although there was a fire in the tepee, it didn\u2019t do much to keep the chill out. Joe was grateful he had on his warm, sheepskin coat.<\/p>\n

The argument stopped, and Joe guessed that Red Cloud had won \u2013 for now. Eagle Claw glared at Joe, his chin set in a manner that exuded hatred. Joe met his gaze, and returned it calmly, although he knew how vulnerable he was. After a moment, Red Cloud grunted something, and Eagle Claw left. A swirl of snow came into the tepee as the flap closed behind him. Joe shivered.<\/p>\n

Silently, Red Cloud put more wood on the fire, then crouched beside Joe. He raised his hand and wiped away the blood. \u201cYou have made a bad enemy there,\u201d he said. \u201cI will do what I can for you when Running Bear comes, but Eagle Claw wants your death.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen untie me, and let me go,\u201d Joe pleaded. \u201cYou know me, Red Cloud. You know I wouldn\u2019t tell anyone where your lodge is, especially not a war party from another tribe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI cannot do that,\u201d Red Cloud said. \u201cBut I will speak for Joe Cartwright tomorrow.\u201d He reached for a fur that lay nearby, and spread it over Joe. Wordlessly, he turned away.<\/p>\n

\u201cRed Cloud! Wait!\u201d Joe pleaded, but the brave didn\u2019t turn back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To say Joe didn\u2019t sleep much that night was an understatement. Between the cold and his uncomfortable position, he never managed to drop off. His muscles were cramping badly across his shoulders and in his legs. As the fire died down, Joe began to shiver. The fur and his big coat helped keep the warmth in a bit, but by the time dawn came, Joe was chilled through and through.<\/p>\n

The blizzard had died down in the early hours of the morning, and Joe caught a glimpse of sun on the snow as the older woman came in with his breakfast. She built up the fire again before feeding him some sort of warm, tasteless gruel. It wasn\u2019t what Joe would have preferred to eat, but it was warming. Once more he thanked her with words she didn\u2019t understand. She gave him a kind smile, and gently touched his cheek. Joe smiled back. He wondered if he had an ally.<\/p>\n

Time passed desperately slowly for Joe. He could hear voices from outside, but no one came near him. Slightly warmer now, Joe managed to doze, but every time someone brushed against the hide walls of the tepee, he jerked awake.<\/p>\n

There was no question as to when Running Bear appeared. The hubbub of his arrival was unmistakeable, and Joe knew it was only a matter of time before the chief appeared in the tepee. He could feel a knot of fear in his belly. He had a bad feeling about this. Once more, despite knowing it was hopeless, Joe struggled against his bonds.<\/p>\n

The tepee flap was raised, and bright sunlight glanced it. After the dimness, it was dazzling. When Joe\u2019s eyes had adjusted to the glare, he could see a tall, imposing Indian standing before him. No one had to tell him this was Running Bear.<\/p>\n

The chief was a middle aged man, his skin a dark mahogany colour, with deep lines running between his nose and mouth. His eyes were dark and hooded. His clothing was simple and unadorned, apart from the medicine he wore round his neck. A single feather was in his grey streaked black hair. The tall Indian and the young white man looked at each other in silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cRed Cloud speaks for you,\u201d Running Bear said. \u201cEagle Claw says you dishonoured Spring Moon. What does white man say?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI did not dishonour Spring Moon,\u201d Joe said, quietly, but with an undercurrent of anger. \u201cI heard her scream and went to help her. She was too badly injured to get back here alone, and I could not leave her alone in the snow. She would have died. So I brought her back. I did not dishonour her. Ask her!\u201d<\/p>\n

The inscrutable face didn\u2019t move. Joe had no idea what the man was thinking. \u201cWhy was boy out in snow?\u201d asked Running Bear.<\/p>\n

Biting back a retort, Joe said, \u201cI was checking on our herd of cattle for my father.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRed Cloud say father own Ponderosa ranch. Is true?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, my father is Ben Cartwright. If you know of him, you\u2019ll know that he wouldn\u2019t allow any of his sons to dishonour an Indian girl. And you would know that I would not betray the location of your lodge to anyone.\u201d Joe looked anxiously up at his captor.<\/p>\n

It seemed that Joe\u2019s argument had swayed Running Bear. He nodded. \u201cI know of father. Has respect of Winnemucca. I think on this. War party must not find us.\u201d He turned and left, dropping the flap behind him. Joe was alone again. He resolutely did not allow himself to hope.
\n________________________________________
\nA good foot of snow had fallen during the blizzard. The sun shone, but the air was frigid. The Cartwrights rode carefully, looking vainly for any tracks that might have escaped the snowfall. There were none. At noon, they returned to the ranch for food, fresh horses and dry clothes. When they returned at dusk, they were cold, tired and despondent. There was no sign of Joe anywhere.<\/p>\n

It took a long time for them to warm up again properly. The odd shiver still crept down Ben\u2019s spine as he sipped his after supper coffee. None of them had anything to say. Adam pretended to read a book, Hoss gaze vacantly into the flames, seeking an answer from them, and Ben watched his sons. Joe was such an elemental part of the ranch. He was frequently stubborn, infuriating and bad tempered, but he could also be sunny, loving, and pliable, and they never knew which mood they were likely to encounter. His laughter was as unique as he was, and he left an unexpectedly big gap when he was absent. Ben loved all his sons, and valued each for their individuality, but Joe had a special place in his heart. Ben didn\u2019t try to analyse why. He wasn\u2019t alone in this. Adam and Hoss both had a special place in their hearts for Joe, too. Perhaps it was because he was the youngest. Perhaps it was his charm, or his reckless courage, or the love and affection he doled out so unstintingly to his family. Whatever the reason, when Joe wasn\u2019t there, the family felt fractured beyond repair. If any of the others were absent, they were missed, but the gap somehow didn\u2019t seem so big.<\/p>\n

With a start, Ben realised he had been dozing, and gave himself a shake. \u201cI think I\u2019ll go to bed,\u201d he announced, and saw that the boys had been watching him sleep. \u201cWe\u2019ll get an early start again in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood night, Pa,\u201d Adam and Hoss chorused. They exchanged wordless looks of concern, and shortly afterwards, followed their father\u2019s example and went to bed.
\n________________________________________
\nThe second night of captivity was no more comfortable than the first had been. A wicked frost had set in, freezing the surface of the snow. There was no wind, but the cold was penetrating. Joe slept, mostly from exhaustion. The fur he had been given probably kept him from hypothermia as the fire burned down to glowing embers. When dawn came, Joe felt thick headed. It was almost as though he hadn\u2019t slept at all.<\/p>\n

It felt well into the morning before Running Bear appeared. He had Eagle Claw and Red Cloud with him this time. Joe felt all his muscles contract as Eagle Claw gave him a look of dark hatred. \u201cI talked to Spring Moon,\u201d Running Bear said. \u201cShe said you helped her. I will let you go. I want your word that you will not tell anyone of position of this lodge.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have my word,\u201d Joe said. \u201cThank you.\u201d He couldn\u2019t repress a smile.<\/p>\n

Dropping to his knees beside Joe, Red Cloud sliced through the rawhide thongs that held him captive, and helped Joe to his feet. Joe rubbed his wrists briskly, to help his circulation get back to normal. He was very careful not to look at Eagle Claw. \u201cI wish you good hunting for the next cold season,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

Retrieving his hat, Joe went outside. All the while, the young brave kept his eyes on Joe. Joe could feel them burning into his back. If he ever had the misfortune to meet Eagle Claw again, Joe knew he would be in a fight for his life. \u201cGoodbye, Running Bear.\u201d He gave a sort of bow, and walked away. At once, he knew it was going to be a long, hard, cold journey home.<\/p>\n

From a tepee close by, Spring Moon appeared. She bore a black eye and split lip, and Joe guessed that Eagle Claw had taken his frustrations out on her. He looked at her sadly, but knew he mustn\u2019t interfere. If he did, he would die in an instant.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait!\u201d she cried. Limping forward, she dropped to her knees in front of him. \u201cI thank you for kindness,\u201d she said. Looking up, she whispered, \u201cPlease, I, too, am captive. Help me.\u201d<\/p>\n

For a startled instant, Joe couldn\u2019t breathe. From behind him, he heard Eagle Claw shout something, and suddenly, he was a prisoner again. Strong hands twisted his arms up behind his back, and Joe knew that they would break his arm without a single qualm. He tried not to struggle, but it was against his nature to be pacific. He had no idea what Eagle Claw had just said. Glancing round, he caught Red Cloud\u2019s eye.<\/p>\n

The older man understood. \u201cHe says you will run away with her, as she is captive, too.\u201d<\/p>\n

A rush of despair swept over Joe. This nightmare didn\u2019t seem to have an end. \u201cShe cannot run with an injured foot,\u201d Joe said, as scathingly as he could manage under the circumstances. \u201cI did not know she was a captive, so why would I have thought of taking her with me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe will be mine,\u201d said Eagle Claw. \u201cAnd I will fight you for her!\u201d
\n________________________________________
\n\u201cNothing!\u201d Hoss said, disgustedly. \u201cDadburnit, Adam, Little Joe can\u2019t have jist vanished off the face of the earth! He\u2019s gotta be somewhere!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe question is, where?\u201d Adam replied. He was as discouraged as Hoss was. \u201cWe\u2019ve looked all over.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe jist ain\u2019t looked in the right spot, that\u2019s all!\u201d Hoss insisted. \u201cHe must be someplace outa the way. I reckon we oughta start lookin\u2019 higher up the hills.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPossibly,\u201d mused Adam. \u201cBut it won\u2019t be today. We\u2019re cold and wet, and its getting dark. Let\u2019s head back, and see if Pa\u2019s had any more luck than we have.\u201d<\/p>\n

Still mumbling under his breath, Hoss reluctantly followed Adam as they picked their way carefully across the frozen landscape. The sky was clear, and a few stars could just be seen twinkling palely against the fading light. From somewhere high above and behind them, there rose a scream.<\/p>\n

The brothers froze, listening. Again the scream, its purity startling in the clear air. Wide-eyed, Hoss looked at Adam. \u201cWhat was that?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure,\u201d Adam responded, his voice as hushed as Hoss\u2019. \u201cIt was probably a cat. You know they can sound like a person.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if it was a person?\u201d demanded Hoss. \u201cI think we oughta check it out.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was movement in the forest, and both brothers\u2019 hands went to their guns. Bounding past them as though they weren\u2019t there, the deer looked terrified. A shadow followed it, and a moment later, they saw the deer go down in a flurry of arms and legs. The horses were shying away from the smell of the cat, and so it was several moments before either of them could speak. \u201cI guess it was a cat,\u201d admitted Hoss, and Adam heard the disappointment in his voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go home,\u201d he suggested.
\n________________________________________
\nSweat dripped into Joe\u2019s eyes as he watched Eagle Claw warily. The brave held a knife, and Joe knew that he was an expert with it. How that last slash had missed his flesh, Joe couldn\u2019t begin to imagine. He dodged another slash, and retreated to the other side of the fire. This was a no-win situation, Joe reckoned. If he beat Eagle Claw, they would probably kill him. If he didn\u2019t beat Eagle Claw, he was dead anyway. If he had to die, so be it. He wasn\u2019t going to go quietly.<\/p>\n

Seeing an opening, Joe took it and dived across the flames at his opponent. He felt the heat on his chest, but ignored it. He crashed into Eagle Claw\u2019s legs, and knocked the brave over. Without pausing, Joe grabbed the hand that held the knife, and they fought for possession of it. Over and over they rolled, first one on top, then the other. Joe felt the top of his head grow warm as he rolled too close to the fire, but he managed to shove Eagle Claw away again.<\/p>\n

They were both sweating, and Joe felt his hands sliding on the other\u2019s skin. Then the miracle he had been hoping for occurred, and Eagle Claw\u2019s grip slipped slightly. Joe twisted his arm viciously, and the knife slid in between the brave\u2019s ribs. With a gurgle, Eagle Claw fell.<\/p>\n

Exhausted and shaking, Joe staggered away. A couple of other braves grabbed his arms, but Joe was too spent to resist. Eagle Claw was still alive, he saw, but probably wouldn\u2019t last the night. Breathing hard, Joe tried to free one arm to wipe the chill sweat from his brow, but his captors wouldn\u2019t let go. They dragged him across the ground, and threw him at Running Bear\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

Looking up at the chief\u2019s face, Joe realised that things were even worse than he\u2019d thought. Running Bear gave Joe a look of profound hatred, and the young white man shuddered. He was beginning to feel very cold now, as the warmth of battle left him. The snow had soaked into his clothes, and he began to shiver.
\n\u201cI will deal with him tomorrow,\u201d Running Bear said.<\/p>\n

As Joe was dragged back into the tepee that had been his prison for the last few days, Red Cloud came in. He made the braves let Joe put on his big coat before he allowed them to tie him to the post once more. They tightened the rawhide savagely, and Joe winced. His feet were tied to the stake, and he was left alone with Red Cloud.<\/p>\n

Gently, Red Cloud helped Joe to drink, and then rose to leave. He hesitated and looked back over his shoulder. \u201cEagle Claw is Running Bear\u2019s son,\u201d he said, and left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the night wore on, Joe began to feel ill. His clothes had been wet, and he wasn\u2019t offered a fire or a fur. The cold seeped into his bones and he began to shiver. After a time, he realised that he was sweating, although he was still cold. Later, he heard a wail of anguish, and guessed that Eagle Claw had died.<\/p>\n

Later still, the tepee flap opened and a stealthy figure crept in. As it drew closer, Joe recognised Spring Moon. Joe opened his mouth to speak, but she swiftly put her hand over his mouth. Leaning in close, she whispered, \u201cThey will kill you in morning. I will let you go, if I can. Run, and not look back.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot without you,\u201d he returned.<\/p>\n

\u201cI still not run,\u201d she replied. \u201cI have no knife. Can only untie hands from pole, not free\u2026\u201d she shrugged, her English having run dry. Joe soon found out what she meant, however. His hands were bound behind him, and then he was tied to the pole. The knot on the rawhide on his wrists had become wet from his clothes, and had shrunk. Only a knife would free him from it.<\/p>\n

On his feet, Joe made one last attempt to get Spring Moon to come with him. She refused. \u201cBoy run,\u201d she said. \u201cI take away guard.\u201d She led him out of the tepee, and slid away into the darkness. Moments later, he heard a shout as she ran past the brave who was on watch. Joe took his chance and ran, wishing with all his might that there was something he could do for her.
\n________________________________________
\nAll the rest of the night, Joe ran. More accurately, he stumbled and fell many times. The sky had clouded over, and luck was on Joe\u2019s side, as snow soon began to sift downwards, slowly at first, then ever faster. Soon, his tracks were being obliterated by a covering of white.<\/p>\n

Come dawn, Joe knew he needed help desperately. He was burning with fever, and his clothes were soaked through. The snow was still falling, but more slowly now. Joe pushed on in the direction of home, but his steps were slowing as exhaustion overtook him. Walking in deep snow is hard enough, but it was made worse for Joe by the fact his hands were tied. He was concerned by the fact that the rawhide was wet, and if – when \u2013 it began to dry out, the circulation would slowly be cut off from his hands.<\/p>\n

Then, from behind him, came the noises he had dreaded. The Indians had found his trail and were after him. Forcing his legs to move faster, Joe ran on, knowing that it was only a matter of time before they found him. He tripped and fell and rolled down a slight slope to the road.<\/p>\n

As he struggled to his feet, another sound came to his ears. For a moment, Joe thought he had lost his reason, for it sounded for all the world like sleigh bells. He stood there, unable to move, and a sleigh appeared round the stand of trees. Joe knew it at once, for he had helped to build it. \u201cClaire!\u201d he shouted.<\/p>\n

The pretty blonde girl driving the sleigh pulled up, and gaped in amazement at Joe. \u201cJoe Cartwright?\u201d she exclaimed. \u201cWhat in the world happened to you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no time to explain,\u201d Joe gasped, sliding onto the back of the sleigh. \u201cJust drive to the Ponderosa as fast as you can! There are Indians after me!\u201d<\/p>\n

The words were hardly out of his mouth when there was a cry from the trees. \u201cQuick!\u201d he cried. \u201cThey\u2019ve found my trail! Drive!\u201d<\/p>\n

Without another word, Claire whipped up her horse and they sped along the treacherous road as fast as they could. Joe hung on in the back, finally hoping that he might make it home. Once there, they would be safe.<\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t take more than 20 minutes for them to arrive in the yard of the ranch. Claire pulled up the sleigh, and turned to look at Joe over her shoulder. They had been friends, and more than friends, for a long time. \u201cJoe!\u201d she exclaimed again. \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

The house door opened, and Ben and the boys came out. They were all muffled up in coats, ready to resume the search for Joe. \u201cClaire?\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cIts Joe,\u201d Claire said, frightened. Joe looked terrible.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Ben exclaimed and ran to the sleigh. He bent over his son. \u201cJoe! Are you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIndians, Pa,\u201d Joe wheezed. \u201cComing after me. Killed one. Escaped.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHelp me, boys,\u201d Ben ordered, and Adam came to offer his strong arm. \u201cHoss, put the sleigh in the barn. Claire, you\u2019d better come in. Alert the men.\u201d<\/p>\n

Slicing through the rawhide thong, Adam put one of Joe\u2019s arms round his shoulder, and he and Ben half-carried him into the house. Looking pale and nervous, Claire followed. She sat down as Ben and Adam eased Joe onto the settee, and stripped off his soaking outerwear. \u201cHe\u2019s got a temperature, Pa,\u201d Adam said, in an undertone.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Ben replied, worriedly. \u201cHop Sing! Bring something warm for Joe.\u201d He felt Joe\u2019s head. Dulled green eyes opened, and Joe tried a smile. \u201cYou\u2019re gonna be all right, son,\u201d Ben soothed, stroking Joe\u2019s sodden curls. His hat was long gone. \u201cWe\u2019ll have you warm and dry in a minute.\u201d
\n________________________________________
\nThe first attack came within an hour. War whops were heard in the yard, and an arrow came rattling through the window in the dining area. Adam scrabbled frantically across the floor and closed the shutters. He heard more arrows impaling themselves in the heavy wood. Ben crouched by the settee, with Claire huddled on the floor beside him. Joe, in dry clothes, lay sleeping on the settee, but he roused at the commotion. His temperature was spiking upwards.<\/p>\n

Gunfire came from outside as the ranch hands defended the house. Leaving Claire to bathe Joe\u2019s head, Ben made his way to the window behind his desk. Hoss joined him, his rifle in his hands. \u201cWhy do they want Joe?\u201d Hoss asked, quietly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, son,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cJoe hasn\u2019t said anything. He\u2019s got a pretty bad chill there, and he\u2019s obviously worn out.\u201d Ben looked back to where Joe lay. All he could see were Joe\u2019s curls. A twinge of fear clenched round Ben\u2019s heart. He had no idea what the Indians had put Joe through, but he had to find out.<\/p>\n

He made his way back over to the settee, and took the cloth from Claire. She gave him a game smile, but flinched as another arrowed imbedded itself in the dining room shutters. \u201cJoe,\u201d Ben said, leaning over his son and shaking his shoulder. \u201cJoe, can you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

The tired green eyes opened. \u201cI can hear you, Pa,\u201d he said, hoarsely.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, what happened? Why are the Indians chasing you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Sighing, Joe said, \u201cI found an Indian girl, Spring Moon, injured in the snow. I couldn\u2019t leave her, so I took her back to the lodge. She told me where it was. A brave called Eagle Claw met us, and he and his friend took me back to the camp as a captive. Red Cloud was there, and he spoke for me. He said I had to be kept alive until Running Bear got back.\u201d Joe swallowed. \u201cRunning Bear said he was going to let me go, but Spring Moon whispered to me that she was a captive, too and Eagle Claw heard her. He said I was trying to rescue her, and Running Bear said I must stay and fight him.\u201d Joe coughed, and Ben helped him to drink. Claire was listening avidly, her eyes wide. \u201cI fought him, and he was badly injured. He died during the night. Spring Moon came and helped me escape. They came after me.\u201d He smiled at Claire. \u201cClaire came along just at the right time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAren\u2019t you lucky?\u201d Claire joked, but the tears were standing in her eyes. Joe gave her another smile and his eyes flicked back to his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cEagle Claw was Running Bear\u2019s son,\u201d he finished.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d Ben said, for indeed he did. \u201cYou rest now, Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right,\u201d Joe protested, pushing himself into a sitting position. \u201cI can fight. After all, its me they want.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou stay right there!\u201d Ben ordered, putting a hand on Joe\u2019s chest. \u201cYou\u2019re running a temperature, and your hand is shaking. Do as you\u2019re told for once, young man! Claire, I\u2019m grateful you came along when you did, but I\u2019m sorry you got caught up in this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad I was able to save Joe,\u201d she replied. She gave his hand a squeeze. Joe returned the pressure. His hand was hot and dry. Claire could see that this was not just a chill. Joe had been cold and wet for too long, and he was suffering from mild exposure. His chest was becoming congested, and Claire could see that he was really ill. \u201cI\u2019ll look after him, Mr Cartwright,\u201d she said. She gave Joe another smile, but it didn\u2019t quite hide her fear. She knew her parents would be worrying about her, but there was no way to get word to them. She had only gone out to try out the new sleigh, which Joe and a number of her friends had helped build.<\/p>\n

It seemed that the Indians would manage to break through to the house, but as darkness finally fell, they backed off, and the yard fell silent. Adam eased outside to check on the hands, and was relieve to discover that there were no injuries among them. He organised a rota for keeping watch, and went back indoors. Claire was sitting in the red leather chair, looking exhausted. Joe was asleep, but his breathing was audible from across the room. Ben and Hoss were sitting by the desk. Adam joined them.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are we going to do?\u201d he asked. \u201cWe can\u2019t get out, and we haven\u2019t got unlimited ammunition.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben admitted. He was too tired to think. \u201cWe need to get the doctor for Joe, and Claire\u2019s parents must be worried out of their minds. But we can\u2019t ask one of the hands to go for help. That would be ordering them to their deaths.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go,\u201d Adam offered.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Ben said, and there was no arguing with his tone. \u201cNo, we\u2019ll just have to hold out as best we can. We\u2019ll see what the morning brings.\u201d He rubbed a hand over his face. \u201cGo to bed, boys. Show Claire to a room. All the shutters are closed, so she should be safe. I\u2019ll sit with Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll relieve you in a few hours,\u201d Adam said. He went across and showed Claire upstairs.
\n________________________________________
\nThe night wore on quietly. Joe\u2019s breathing settled a little, but he was still burning with fever. He had periods where he was quite coherent, and other periods where he was completely out of it. Shortly after Adam came down and persuaded Ben to bed, Joe fell into a deep sleep. His somnolence was contagious, and Adam dozed off, too. None of the family had slept much during the three nights Joe was missing.<\/p>\n

As dawn approached, Joe woke. He felt slightly better, and looked round. Adam was sound asleep in his blue chair. Joe was thirsty and wanted a drink, but he didn\u2019t want to waken Adam. Slowly, he slid out from under the covers and made his way to the kitchen. It seemed to Joe to take him forever, because he was quite weak. The kitchen floor felt cold beneath his stockinged feet, and he was pleased to see his boots sitting by the stove. He tugged them on, relieved to discover they were dry. He got himself a drink from the pump, and then had to sit down to rest. Sweat beaded on his forehead and upper lip.<\/p>\n

After a brief rest, Joe made his way back to the main room. Adam was still sound, and the rest of the house was quiet. Blotting the sweat from his face with his sleeve, Joe went to the door. He picked up his gun, and eased the door open a fraction.<\/p>\n

It was hard to say who got the bigger fright, Joe or the brave on the other side of the door. Both let out startled yells, and Joe threw himself bodily at the young man. He recognised him as Eagle Claw\u2019s companion from the day he was captured. They went down in a heap, punching at each other.<\/p>\n

From the house, Joe could vaguely hear Adam yelling, but he was too busy to catch the words. The brave hit Joe hard on the cheek, and knocked him down. As Joe rolled across the yard, the brave jumped on top of him. Winded, shaking, and feeling the strength draining out of his muscles, Joe was getting the worst of the fight.<\/p>\n

There was a shout as one of the hands rushed towards his young boss. A hail of arrows rained down, and he was struck on the shoulder. Joe\u2019s reserves of strength had run out, and the world was going dark. He was vaguely aware of the brave dragging him to his feet, and of another person running in to help. There was the sharp report of a gun, and the brave went down, dragging Joe down with him.<\/p>\n

However, the other brave was determined to re-capture Joe and he simply grabbed the youth\u2019s collar, and pulled him across the yard. Joe was half-strangled, and he struggled to free himself. There was another shot, and this Indian, too, went down. Choking, Joe knew he must get to safety somehow. He got as far as his knees, when a dark shadow jumped at him from the barn. It was Running Bear himself! \u201cI have you now, white boy!\u201d he hissed, malevolently.<\/p>\n

Struggling weakly, Joe tried to break free. Running Bear backhanded the youth several times, watching with satisfaction as blood flowed from his mouth and nose. \u201cYou caused the death of my son,\u201d he said. \u201cNow, you will die!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t want Eagle Claw to die,\u201d Joe gasped. \u201cHe challenged me, and I won! You agreed to the challenge, yet you kept me prisoner after I had won. So much for honour!\u201d<\/p>\n

Enraged, Running Bear punched Joe in the stomach. \u201cEagle Claw was a brave man,\u201d he hissed. \u201cHis name in your mouth dirties him!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe gave challenge,\u201d Joe gasped. He could barely breathe, and the world was going dark again. \u201cWinnemucca taught us that after the challenge is met, the victor lives. Yet you want me to die!\u201d He coughed painfully, dragging precious air into his lungs. \u201cAll right, kill me! But leave my family alone! They have nothing to do with this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Without a word, Running Bear yanked Joe to his feet and pulled him into the barn. Joe was soaked through again, trembling with cold and fever. He fell to the floor, as Running Bear let go of him. He was unable to resist as Running Bear savagely tied his hands behind his back, and bound his feet together. For several minutes, Joe was too dazed to think, but gradually, he came back to full consciousness.<\/p>\n

The Indian chief was standing a few feet away, watching him. Joe tried to control his trembling, but he was so cold, his teeth were chattering, and nothing he did seemed to stop them. After a moment, Running Bear looked round the barn. His eye fell on the big whip, normally kept locked away, but left out by a careless hand. A light came to his eyes, and he picked it up.<\/p>\n

Fear shot like pain through Joe\u2019s belly. He began to squirm across the floor, trying desperately, and hopelessly, to escape his fate. Inexorably, Running Bear followed him. The whip cracked and bit into Joe\u2019s arm and back. He bit his lip to stop from screaming out loud. Again and again the whip spoke, and the burning pain consumed Joe relentlessly. After a time, he couldn\u2019t have cried out, even if his life depended on it.<\/p>\n

Dimly, he became aware that the torture had stopped. His eyes slit open, and he saw Running Bear\u2019s face very close to his own. \u201cI will not kill you,\u201d he said. \u201cYou have met both challenges, and deserve to live. But if we meet again, you will die, white man!\u201d He grabbed Joe\u2019s shirt collar and lifted him up. \u201cMy son died because of you, and I hate you for it. It is not the way of my people to take revenge, but I live by my rules now, not by theirs.\u201d He punched Joe in the face, and let the youth fall. For Joe, it was the last straw, and he blacked out.<\/p>\n

Straightening slowly, Running Bear looked down at the injured youth at his feet. He lived by his own rules, it was true, as had his son. He had taken some satisfaction from beating the helpless young man, but now it was time to leave. He became aware of the sound of gunfire from outside, and sidled up to the door. Easing out, he saw that his braves were taking the worst of it. They were a small band, and he couldn\u2019t afford to lose any more men. He shouted for them to retreat, but his shout simply drew attention to him, and Adam Cartwright did not hesitate. He fired at Running Bear, and killed him.<\/p>\n

Their leader\u2019s death turned the battle into a rout, as the remaining Indians turned and fled. Rising wearily from the shelter of the over-turned porch table, Ben slid his gun back into his holster. He felt pulped. A couple of the ranch hands had been injured, and Ben anxiously checked out both Adam and Hoss. Hoss had a bloody streak running across the back of one hand, but he didn\u2019t look as though he had even noticed the minor injury.<\/p>\n

Joe! Ben began to run across to the barn, his heart in his mouth, terrified of what he might find. Adam and Hoss were on his heels. Ben flung the door open, and looked down on the bleeding man on the floor. \u201cJoe!\u201d Ben said, and found himself kneeling by his son. He felt frantically for Joe\u2019s pulse. \u201cGet the doctor,\u201d he ordered. \u201cQuickly!\u201d
\n________________________________________
\nIt was snowing again. Adam stood leaning on the doorpost of the house as he watched the posse ride out. He was bone tired. One of the hands had gone for the doctor, and another had ridden to Claire\u2019s house to tell her parents where she was. Between them, Ben, Adam and Hoss had carried Joe into the house. He hadn\u2019t moved, apart from his constant shivering. His temperature was sky high.<\/p>\n

All day, they fought the fever. Paul Martin cleaned and dressed his injuries, and gave Joe something for the pain. But still Joe remained in delirium. He lay on his stomach, fighting off unseen predators, crying out unintelligibly. Despite the cool cloths, his body gave off great heat. Joe was desperately ill.<\/p>\n

About mid-afternoon, Adam had taken Claire home. He knew that she really wanted to stay, but the family needed to be alone to nurse Joe. The sheriff had been by then, and the posse had tracked the Indians through the snow. But as darkness drew closer, they had to stop. By then, it was obvious that wherever the Indians had been camped, they were no longer there. The tracks led straight west, heading off the Ponderosa. Next morning, the posse would go on, and check that they had really gone.<\/p>\n

But none of it mattered, Adam thought. Nothing mattered if Joe was to die. He looked up at the swirling snow, and it suddenly came to him that this was Christmas Eve. Tears sprang into his eyes. He knew that Joe\u2019s death would leave a massive gap in their lives, but it seemed especially unfair that he should die at Christmas. It had taken a very long time for the magic of Christmas to truly re-assert itself after Marie\u2019s death, and he knew that the magic would be gone for good if Joe died. Wearily, he straightened up and went inside, closing the door gently behind him.<\/p>\n

Normally, the family spent Christmas Eve by the fireside. Ben read the Christmas story from the Bible, and they sang some carols. Adam had recently learned a new carol, which he\u2019d wanted to teach to the family that night. If Joe died, he would never be able to sing again. Crumpling into a seat by the fire, Adam closed his eyes to stop the tears, and prayed once more.
\n________________________________________
\n\u201cNo\u2026please\u2026no\u2026won\u2019t\u2026won\u2019t tell\u2026\u201d Joe panted. He moved restlessly, and winced in pain. Ben soaked the cloth in cold water again, and placed it on Joe\u2019s burning forehead. It was almost midnight, but Ben was unaware of the time. He had sent Adam and Hoss to bed a few hours earlier, and they had gone, reluctantly. Now, it was just Ben fighting against Joe\u2019s illness. \u201cNo\u2026 not that\u2026not the whip\u2026 NO!\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes opened, but there was no recognition in those fever-lit depths.<\/p>\n

\u201cEasy, son,\u201d Ben soothed, stroking Joe\u2019s head. \u201cRelax, you\u2019re safe.\u201d He continued to stroke Joe\u2019s head, feeling the heat radiating from him. His bandages were soaked in sweat. Joe\u2019s fevered imaginings were causing Ben great distress. Briefly, he closed his eyes against the tears.<\/p>\n

A hand shook his shoulder, and Ben woke with a start. Adam was standing beside him, looking concerned. Ben shot a glance at the bed. Joe lay still, at last. Fear coursed through Ben, and he leant forwards, feeling for Joe\u2019s pulse. It was there, slower and steadier than it had been earlier. As he held Joe\u2019s wrist, Ben realised that he wasn\u2019t as hot. There was still a sheen of sweat on his son\u2019s golden skin, but he was cooler. Ben looked up at Adam. \u201cHe\u2019s cooler,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

Setting down the lamp he carried, Adam touched Joe\u2019s head. His chestnut curls were still damp, but Ben was right. The fever had finally broken. Relief swamped Adam, and he sat down hastily on the edge of the bed. Ben clasped Adam\u2019s hand in his, and they shared a moment of unspoken communion, with each other and their God. His voice hoarse with unshed tears, Adam whispered, \u201cMerry Christmas, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMerry Christmas,\u201d Ben responded.
\n________________________________________
\nWhen Ben woke the next morning, the sun was out, sparkling off the new snowfall. He had fallen asleep in the chair in Joe\u2019s room, about an hour after Adam had woken him. Stretching a kink out of his back, Ben looked towards the bed, and realised that Joe was awake and watching him. A smile played around the youth\u2019s lips. \u201cPa,\u201d he whispered, his voice scratchy.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Ben went to his side. \u201cHow do you feel, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSore,\u201d Joe whispered. \u201cCan I sit up?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGently,\u201d Ben cautioned, helping all he could. In actual fact, Ben did most of the work, as Joe was too weak and sore to turn himself over. Finally, the injured youth was propped up on pillows, and Ben helped him to drink. \u201cYou gave us quite a fright, young man,\u201d Ben scolded.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Pa,\u201d he said, contritely. \u201cWhat happened?\u201d His gaze went to the window, and Ben saw fear in his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cRunning Bear is dead,\u201d Ben said. He told Joe what had happened. \u201cRoy thinks the Indians are gone for good, but he\u2019ll be out sometime today to tell us for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs everyone all right?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cA few bumps and bruises, but that\u2019s all,\u201d Ben assured him. \u201cHow about I get you something to eat?\u201d<\/p>\n

Before Joe could do more than make a moue, the bedroom door opened quietly, but as soon as Hoss saw Joe was awake, he bounced into the room. \u201cHey, you\u2019re awake,\u201d he exclaimed. \u201cDadburnit, but its good to see you\u2019re all right, Shortshanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood to see you too,\u201d Joe responded, but he looked tired. Hoss\u2019 enthusiasm wore him out. \u201cPa, could I eat later? I\u2019m pretty tired.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, good idea, Joe. You get some sleep,\u201d Hoss instructed him. \u201cCome on, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Perplexed by his middles son\u2019s behaviour, Ben allowed himself to be escorted out of the bedroom. Joe was asleep before the door was closed. \u201cHoss, what on earth is going on?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait and see!\u201d Hoss replied, enigmatically.
\n________________________________________
\nShortly after lunch, Hoss came back into Joe\u2019s room, and despite his brother\u2019s protests, he picked Joe up and carried him to the stairs. Joe was feeling pretty sore, and complained like mad all the way along the landing and down the first part of the stairs. Then Hoss turned round, and Joe fell silent, for there, in the usual place, was a Christmas tree. Adam and Ben were standing by the fire, wearing white shirts and string ties. Claire and her parents were standing behind the settee. They were all smiling at him. Shaken and touched, Joe smiled back, but the tears were in his eyes for all to see.<\/p>\n

\u201cMerry Christmas, Joe,\u201d Adam and Ben chorused.<\/p>\n

\u201cMerry Christmas,\u201d Claire\u2019s family echoed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen did you do this?\u201d Joe asked, as Hoss set him carefully on the settee, and Ben arranged a pillow for his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis morning,\u201d Adam explained. \u201cHoss went and cut down a tree, and I went to ask Claire and her parents to come over. We wanted today to be extra special, because you\u2019re alive to share it with us.\u201d Embarrassed by his own words, Adam cleared his throat and looked away.<\/p>\n

They ate and drank and talked. Joe lay on the settee and listened. He dozed every now and then, but nobody minded. Claire helped him with his meal, and sat beside him holding his hand for most of the time. Then, Adam got out his guitar. \u201cI learned a new carol for this year,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s very new, but I think it\u2019s appropriate. Its called See Amidst the Winter\u2019s Snow.\u201d Very softly, he began to sing and play. By the last chorus, they were singing along.<\/p>\n

The last chord died away into silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cMerry Christmas,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Summary: \u00a0Out checking on the herd, Joe follows some tracks and finds an injured Indian girl. Will his gallantry cost him more than he is prepared to pay?<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T (10,425 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":3761,"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_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,1007],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7133","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-joe-cartwright","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1007-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/renotrip.jpg?fit=1182%2C778&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7133","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/45"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=7133"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7133\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3761"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=7133"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=7133"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=7133"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}