Joe and Marie part 3

By: Lyn R.

The two weeks after Adam’s house warming were peaceful for all the Cartwrights. The family spent virtually all their time between the two houses. Ben had one quick trip to town but otherwise the six of them spent a quiet but happy fortnight together. It was an idyllic period, not even a disagreement ruffled the calm and Ben could remember few such weeks in his life, with all his family around him, all so content and happy.

Four days before Christmas Adam and Hoss went into town to collect Christmas presents and pick up Will, Laura and the children. Will and Laura were very glad to arrive, the journey had seemed never ending with bad weather and fractious infants. The twins were just a year old and normally very active, they didn’t like being cooped up on the stage even if they weren’t actually walking yet. Laura looked worn out and Hoss met Adam’s eye as she got down and showed his obvious concern. Adam said, “Lets get the luggage and get them home.” Hoss moved swiftly and within five minutes everything was on the wagon and Adam helped Laura up. He left Hoss to drive and rode alongside.

Will and Laura were quiet on the journey, too tired to make conversation, and when they reached the house Adam showed them straight to their rooms, to rest and recover. Ben, Joe and Marie had been planning to come over that evening but Adam told Hoss to get them to leave it until the morning, they were too tired for company. Laura especially was grateful to just relax, and for Carole’s help as her friend came into give her a hand to feed, bathe the babies and get them to bed. Adam took Peggy off to explore after he had told Kam Su that there would only be the four plus Peggy for the meal and asked him to put it back an hour to give Laura a chance to recover. Adam settled Will in his study and poured his cousin a drink. At first Will just lent back and relaxed but gradually he began to take in his surroundings. Peggy was preoccupied with the pinto mare that she had ridden in the summer, so Adam left her to it and went into join his cousin. Will looked up “You’ve made a good job of your house Adam.”

Adam grinned, “I’ve been planning this house for a very long time Will.” Will lent back staring into the fire thinking about the time Adam had started to build before. Adam guessed what his cousin was thinking and changed the subject. “I hardly recognise the twins, haven’t they grown.”

Will relaxed, very proud of his twin daughters, and began to tell Adam some of their tricks. The time passed quickly until Laura and Carole came down. Laura looked and felt much better and she went over to Adam “I’m sorry I was so brusque. I must say you look different again from last time I saw you.”

Adam grinned “I could say the same! You look a good ten years younger than the sorry figure who got off the stage.”

Laura smiled at him, “It was a rather difficult journey. Never mind it was worth it, now we are here. A whole fortnight to enjoy.”

Carole said “Let’s go and eat and then you can have a look round.”

Adam added, “The others won’t be over until tomorrow, as you were so tired we thought an early night was indicated.” Laura was grateful for that.

After the meal Adam and Carole showed them round the house. They were both impressed but Laura liked the study best “Do you ever sit in the main room?”

Adam and Carole looked at each other and laughed “No I admit we don’t. I said the study would be Adam’s sanctuary to hide away when he wanted to be alone but somehow we always end up in here. Even when the others are over we do, with Adam Hoss and Joe sharing the hearthrug with the dogs.”

Adam sighed, “Yeah I’m going to get another chair for in here so I can sit up with the grownups, my back won’t take the floor much longer.”

Will laughed “You and Joe often ended up on floor anyway, or the table.”

“Only when we were fighting!” The others knew just how seriously to take that comment. They proved the point by settling in the study, Adam using a chair with Carole on his lap as they drank their coffee. Laura and Carole had slipped into a discussion on babies as Adam filled Will in about the trouble in town and how Joe was coping. Then gradually they began discussing their honeymoon trip east. In the end it was fairly late when they headed for bed.

Adam was up early and was surprised to find himself beaten downstairs. Peggy was sitting drinking some milk, staring out of the window. She grinned at Adam “Did you do it deliberately Adam, so you had the same view as the old house?”

“Yes, silly isn’t it?”

Peggy considered him solemnly “No I don’t think so Adam. If you like the view why not keep it? I like it here much better than San Francisco. I wish Mummy had never moved away.”

Adam sat down and pulled the little girl down onto his lap “Your father is happier in Frisco and you know your Mummy wouldn’t be happy away from him.”

Peggy remembered Adam very clearly from those months when he’d nearly been her father; by now she couldn’t really remember her real father “If you’d married Mummy we wouldn’t have had to go.”

Adam was taken aback at that, wondering just how much she knew, she’d only been five at the time and it was four and a half years ago. “Your Mummy and I didn’t love each other enough to get married, We were, and still are, very good friends, but Will loved her like a husband should not me. Even if you miss the mountains, you’re a lot happier in a home with parents who love each other. Anyway we are always here and you can come for holidays like now.”

Peggy considered him “Could I come on my own?”

“That depends on your parents. You’re too young to travel alone but one of us often has to visit Frisco and maybe you could travel that way. Maybe if your parents can’t get away next summer we’ll see what can be arranged.”

Peggy eye’s sparkled at that thought “There’s nowhere nice to ride in Frisco, nowhere like the Lake and there’s school.”

Adam laughed “You’d still have to go to school if you lived here.”

She frowned “I suppose so I never thought of that.”

“Up you get young lady. I want my breakfast.” They had just finished when the other three came down. The twins were still asleep and Laura was keeping her fingers crossed that she could have her breakfast in peace. She just made it and was on her second cup of coffee when the silence was broken with a vengeance. Adam and Will retreated outside with Peggy, leaving Laura and Carole to cope with the twins. Will had been too preoccupied the previous evening to take note of the house, but now in daylight he could see and appreciated his cousin’s talent. It was so different from the ornate modern houses springing up round Frisco, very much simpler and infinitely more elegant. He congratulated Adam again.

By the time the twins were fed and dressed the rest of the family arrived. Adam moved over to help Marie down as Peggy came running out of the stable to see the others and Carole and Laura came out each carrying one of the twins. Marie was nervous about meeting Laura, although Joe the night before had said that she seemed more likely to despise Laura for choosing Will rather than Adam than Laura would be to despise her for being pregnant. Adam led the way in but left Joe to introduce his wife. Laura hadn’t known quite what to expect even after Will’s report and she was surprised how beautiful the girl was. They said hello rather stiltedly and then Carole bore them both off to play with the twins and to get some real facts on childbearing from Laura. They both had plenty of questions, some Laura could answer and some she couldn’t, but it broke the ice. Soon all three of them were down on the floor with the two dogs to the delight of the twins.

Will laughed at the identical expressions on his cousins faces as they watched their wives; both so proud and visualising the time when the girls would be playing with their own babies. Adam looked up questioningly at him and Will say, “Babies are great fun. I’ve had more enjoyment out of my daughters than I’d ever have believed before they were born. But you’ve got to live through the times before they are born when the girls won’t be able to sleep and are restless. The nights afterwards when they won’t sleep but seem to yell the minute you’re dozing off and all the other fun and games. Peace disappears out of the window when babies come in.”

Adam laughed but Joe answered for both of them “I don’t care, I’ve always wanted children of my own and now one’s on its way, however much disruption it causes, it’s more than welcome.” Marie heard that and moved over to Little Joe and gave his hand a quick squeeze. It was the way Joe talked of the baby as his that gave her the courage to keep going in what she couldn’t help but feel was an unfair deception; that and Adam’s whole hearted backing for them.

After lunch they all went back to the main house where Marie could show Laura her piano and spent a comfortable and often hilarious afternoon singing and playing. Eventually Laura had to call a halt to proceedings as it was the twins bedtime. They arranged for Joe, Marie and Hoss to come over and collect them the following morning and go for a drive. Ben insisted that he had some paperwork to clear and would be glad of some peace and quiet for a day. Adam had a quick word with his father but Ben reassured him, there was nothing he couldn’t handle. Adam needn’t bother about anything but enjoying himself until after Christmas.

The days passed quickly and Christmas morning dawned bright and clear. Snow was on the ground and frozen hard, it sparkled in the early morning light. The trees each with their burden of snow looked like something out of a fairyland. Ben stood in the doorway looking out over his land, savouring the bittersweet memories of past Christmases. In many ways this was the strangest. For the first time he could remember on a Christmas morning there were no smells from the kitchen. There wasn’t even any Hop Sing to get him breakfast and eventually Ben went in to heat up coffee and get some breakfast on the go. Hoss soon joined him “Joe and Marie are up Pa, they’ll be down in five minutes. Merry Christmas.”

Ben grinned at his big son “And to you Hoss, though I must say it doesn’t smell much like it.”

Hoss laughed “Adam’s will and if you’re missing it just wander down to the cookhouse it sure smells there, I could catch it from my bedroom window.”

Ben turned back to the stove “I’ll have breakfast ready by the time Joe and Marie are down, why don’t you start loading the wagons.” Hoss nodded “The sooner we get over to Adam’s, the sooner Christmas will really start.” He went out and started loading all the various presents on the wagon. He finished rapidly and went in to find the others round the table, Ben passed him a loaded plate and they sat in silence eating. Marie had never had a family Christmas, over the last years it had just meant longer hours of work in an even more crowded saloon. Joe had told her about some of his Christmases but it was outside her imagination. She knew they were going to spend the day at Adam’s and than have the usual large party on Boxing Day at the main house. She was very quiet as Joe wrapped a rug round her to make sure she was warm enough for the short drive. He got up next to her and headed over to Adam’s.

Adam had been up even earlier than his father. He had dreamt so often of having Christmas in his own house and now it had come true and he was determined everything should be perfect. The house was decorated with holly, pine and mistletoe along with the paper-chains that the girls had made They had waited until Peggy was in bed to bring in the Christmas tree that Adam had chosen with such care a fortnight earlier. Now it stood almost touching the ceiling with a beautiful fairy doll at the top of it. They had spent a busy hour decorating it with candles, bells and funny little animals that Marie had made out of brightly coloured paper. It was already piled high round the base with presents before the others arrived. All the fires were burning brightly so the house was lovely and warm in defiance of the bitter cold outside. Standing in the warm Adam appreciated the beauty of the snow-covered land. From the kitchen came delicious smells and he had no fears about the food, with Hop Sing over to help his cousin. Adam checked he had the wine cooling for lunch and that all the decanters were full and then stood staring out of the window, daydreaming with a cup of coffee, until his cousin came down to join him.

Will was enjoying his stay and watching his wife and Peggy revelling in it. The only thing that was troubling him was that Laura might regret her decision to choose him. He could not offer her all the things that Adam could give Carole and he couldn’t help feeling Laura must be comparing their home and this. He was quiet over coffee but as he sat quietly by his cousin he remembered what Adam had to say that first night he returned to the Ponderosa and he gradually relaxed. Laura was his, she would always enjoy visiting the Ponderosa and maybe she still loved Adam, but she was his wife and had borne his children, their life together was the real part of their life. By the time the others came down he was relaxed and smiling, laughing over Peggy’s delight in the tree.

They had just finished breakfast and Laura was getting the twins dressed when the wagon arrived. Joe hurried Marie into the fire and then went to help Hoss and Ben bring in the presents. Everyone seemed to be talking at once and Marie was silent taking in the decorations and the tree. She had never seen anything quite like it. Carole got coffee and Adam poured out drinks for those who wanted then and then proposed a toast “Merry Christmas everyone and may we have many more of them together.”

The twins were already exploring the pile of brightly coloured parcels round the tree and Adam suggested they start opening them if they were to be through by lunchtime. He started by taking Carole out to the barn where he showed her the buggy he had bought her. Carole was delighted. She could harness the horse herself and would be much freer to go over to the main house. They were alone for the first time that day and Adam took her in his arms. They stood quietly together for a moment, thinking back over the last year they had spent with each other. It had been disastrous at times but the year was ending well. After a few moments they went back in to join the rest of the family.

Hoss and Joe had been sorting the parcels into heaps for each person. Marie was staggered at the pile of things given to her and indeed to everyone. They began to open their presents. Ben had given each of his sons a three-quarter length leather coat and both the girls a thick hooded cloak, a midnight blue for Marie and an emerald green for Carole. They were all delighted with so much toing and froing between the houses they needed warm clothes. Little Joe had brought a beautiful gold heart-shaped pendant watch for Marie and she was thrilled. She had bought Joe some fancy decorated boots and gloves which pleased him enormously. She’d got wallets for each of the other man and a handbag for Carole. Carole had got her a lovely shot silk blouse with a long black skirt which had an adjustable waist band; while Adam had bought her a set of crystal jewellery, necklace, bracelet, broach and several different hair pieces. Hoss had got both girls decorated footstools so that they could put their feet up.

Carole surprised Adam with the full scores and librettos of four of the operas they had seen in New York. The others looked uncomprehending but he was delighted. The thing that surprised him most was a joint present from Hoss and Joe. It was a chessboard on its own table with a cover to fit over and in the drawers was the chess set, each piece exquisitely carved in ivory. Adam was completely taken aback by it and even more so when Hoss said “You’ve worked hard this year, carried the ranch and helped us both, so we thought you deserved something a bit special.”

Adam couldn’t trust himself to speak and just gave his brothers a quick hug each. They were delighted Dan had told them about the set, bought from the east by one of the new millionaires who had lost his money on the stock market almost as quickly as he had made it and was glad to sell it off. Adam was glad when attention was distracted as Laura started to help the twins undo presents. Peggy had already undone a pile of and was prancing around with a new doll but very willing to help her sisters who quickly lost interest. Adam began collecting rubbish and then went and sat on the floor leaning against his father’s knees. Ben was enthralled by a book on the history of guns, which Adam had given him but he put it down and looked at his eldest son. Adam was watching his brothers with the three women all helping the twins. Ben smiled “Happy Adam?”

Adam looked up, he was completely content “Dreams come true Pa and sometimes they turn out to be so much better than you ever thought.”

Ben rested his hand on his son’s shoulder “I always prayed that you would all find the complete joy of a wife you loved and children of your own. This year both you and Joe have begun to find it.”

Adam, suddenly serious, looked up “With it we’ve also found the true meaning of fear. The sudden terror that it’s too good to last.”

“I know but it usually does and at the very worst, noone can ever take the memory of days like this away.” Adam grinned at his father and pulled himself to his feet going to see how long dinner would be. He came back in and began laying the table but Carole shooed him away and took over so Adam went and got the sherry. He was distracted by a cry of “Oh No!” from Laura and on going in to investigate was met with a scene of chaos. All the men were sitting helpless with laughter while Marie was holding Peggy to stop her making things worse, Eve had managed to get the top of one of her mother’s presents a tin of highly scented powder and while everyone’s attention was elsewhere she had liberally covered her sister. Dawn had been wearing a pretty dark blue frock but she was now white from head to foot, while Eve sat admiring her handiwork. It wasn’t until she’d started applying the powder to her mother that any of her elders realised what was happening, Adam couldn’t help grinning but he moved forward to help Laura. He picked Eve up and took the tin away from her while Carole ran over and picked up Dawn. She looked at Adam who said, “Take her upstairs.” He dumped Eve on her father and went up to help his wife. Between them they got Dawn undressed and while Carole sponged her down and brushed the powder out of her hair Adam bushed the dress clean. Laura had run upstairs close to tears but as she brushed the powder out of her own hair she began to see the funny side. She had just been so cross with everyone laughing and not helping. She went over to Adam and Carole who had Dawn almost respectable, The baby thought it was all great fun and had made no protests. Adam grinned at her, “Damage all repaired and I’ll get you some more powder.”

“I’m sorry I was so cross. It was just every one sitting there laughing and making no attempt to help. Only Marie did anything.”

Adam smiled “Don’t tell them off, it is Christmas Day.”

Laura nodded “I’m alright now but you did say something about sherry.”

“Take your daughter and I’ll go pour out.”

They were soon sitting down to turkey and all the trimmings, with wine that Adam had brought back from New York. Adam at the head of the table with all his family around him felt very pleased with himself, with this house he’d created and with his new life. Marie had gradually relaxed, happy with her new family and made a good meal. After dinner having thoroughly overeaten they all lazed by the fire and chatted, full and happy. They spent the day talking looking at books and other presents, playing with children and dogs and just enjoying each other’s company. They were loath to break up and it was late when they finally headed for bed.

The next day Adam transported all his company over early to prepare for the party, He had brought a lot of fireworks back from new York and was going to arrange a display for the evening. Laura was looking forward to meeting many of her old friends, some she’d seen in the summer but others she hadn’t seen for over four years, Ben always enjoyed the Boxing Day parties, for Beth’s presence if nothing else. Adam looked round at the crowd and grinning, quietly commented to his father, “What with Joe’s wedding, the house warming and this, they’ll be living here soon!”

Ben cuffed his son and then went over to join Beth. “You don’t look quite your usual self Beth.”

She smiled at him “I thought I wouldn’t be able to come. I’ve spent most of the week in bed nursing a filthy cold. It’s doing the rounds in town and from what I’ve seen both Roy and Dan are about to succumb.”

Ben insisted that she came over by the fire but Beth laughed at him “I’m alright now, its just left me feeling a bit washed out.”

The evening progressed well and the fireworks were a great success, Adam had arranged them so that, apart from himself and Hoss who were letting them off, all the others could enjoy them from inside through the windows. Hoss rubbing cold hands together proclaimed that it was a darn good job only two of them had to freeze but Adam just laughed at his brother. It was all in a good cause. Certainly some of the set pieces were very spectacular. It was a novelty and very well received especially by some of the younger girls. By the time they had finished both Adam and Hoss were thoroughly cold and glad to go in for some hot coffee, liberally laced with brandy. Dan came over and joined them and begged a cup, He was sneezing well and apologised for coming “I hadn’t realised it would break out like this. This morning I just felt as though I might be heading for a cold.”

Adam said “Forget it Roy’s in the same state. From what I have heard it’s been doing the rounds in town and the men have all been into town anyway so we’ll be lucky if we escape.”

Dan nodded “Just one of those things but its a beaut. I’m already beginning to feel like death warmed up,”

Hoss laughed “Well we won’t cheer you up by telling you what you look like but come and drown your sorrows in some good brandy.” He took Dan off and Adam went over to join his wife with Joe and Marie by the fire. The party didn’t break up until late and Ben had already warmed beds for Adam and Carole and for Will and Laura. “You can’t wake the children at this time of night.” They willingly agreed, not wanting to go out in the cold. When the girls and Will had gone up, the four men made a pretence of clearing up, but after five minutes Hoss got some coffee and they sat down round the fire.

Little Joe grinned at his brothers “I remember sitting here this time last year saying that it had been a good Christmas.” They grinned and Ben shook his head “It doesn’t seem possible so much has happened since then. Two weddings, a fight and now two babies on the way."

Joe grinned and then chuckled wickedly “Well we expected one wedding provided Adam ever summoned up his courage though I must admit I was beginning to wonder.”

Adam lazily cuffed his brother and then yawning widely headed for bed.

The next day they stayed and helped clear up and then spent a lazy day round the fire, doing nothing in particular but playing with the children. Marie played her piano and they all joined in some Christmas songs. They went home in time to put the children to bed and Ben went with them to give Adam a game using his new chess set.

The following day they had all been going over to Adam’s but when Adam came out he found only Joe and Marie there. He waited until they were in the warm and then queried it. Joe said “Hoss has got that cold and wasn’t feeling too good so he thought he’d stay by the fire rather than come and give it to all of you. Half the bunkhouse is down with it too. Pa stayed with Hoss.”

Adam worried asked, “How bad is he?” Joe shrugged “You saw Dan. Hoss is much the same, sneezing, coughing, eyes watering and feeling sorry for himself. From what Beth said it runs the gamut, sore throat, feverish and lasts about a week. He hasn’t taken to his bed but I think all he wants is to curl up in a chair by the fire with a continuous supply of hot drinks.”

Adam sighed, “Poor old Hoss.”

Joe nodded “At a rough guess the rest of us will be lucky to escape. Its certainly running through the bunkhouse, half the crew are in bed and several others beginning to complain of sore throats.”

Adam was sorry for his brother but knew that all Hoss would want, would be to be left alone to nurse his cold in the warm.

During the afternoon Joe challenged Adam to a game of chess. For once Adam was preoccupied, still intrigued with the pieces themselves and their intricate carving and after three-quarters of an hour Joe triumphantly said, “Checkmate!”

Adam examined the board and then ruefully conceded defeat. The other four were playing whist by the fire so Adam and Joe moved through to the kitchen to get coffee They had just got the tray filled when the front door went. Adam left Joe to take the tray in and went to the door. It was a message from town asking Adam to go in and see Fair and Mackay as soon as possible. It was already late in the afternoon, so Adam sent back a message to say that he would be in the following morning. The messenger had no idea why his presence was required, but Adam guess it had something to do with the Consolidated Virginia. Thoughtful he went back in to join the others. Joe was sipping coffee watching the game but he came over as he saw the expression on his brother’s face “Trouble?”

“I really don’t know.” Adam passed on the message and Joe, thinking about Pardoe, said, “I’ll ride in with you.”

Adam nodded “Be glad of the company.” They puzzled over it for a few minutes but as Adam said they would just have to wait until tomorrow. Then the others finished their game with Carole and Marie triumphant and Adam broke it to them that he and Joe had to go to town the following day. Carole and Marie both began lists of things that were required, but Will remembering what Ben had said about Pardoe immediately offered to go along. He could do with some exercise. Adam and Joe knew exactly why he had offered, but even though Adam’s arm was fully recovered, three were stronger than two and they willingly accepted. Joe arranged to bring Marie over fairly early so that they could get a prompt start for town.

When they got home after dinner Hoss had already headed for bed and Ben was sitting reading. Marie was tired and went up to their room and Joe joined his father by the fire. He asked after his brother but as Ben said it was just a cold and there was nothing anyone could do except leave him in peace while it ran its course. Joe told him about the message from fair and Mackay and that the three of them proposed to ride into town the following morning. Ben nodded, there was little choice and with three it should be safe, but he warned Joe to be careful to watch his back. Pardoe must make a move soon and would be waiting his chance. Joe nodded “We know that Pa, don’t worry.” Then he asked how many more hands were down with the cold and hearing that José had succumbed, he wandered out to see his friend.

The next morning when Joe and Marie reached Adam’s they found the place in uproar. Peggy had the cold and both the twins were snuffling and irritable. Laura had a sore throat and a headache. She was tired out having been up most of the night with the twins. Marie hurried upstairs, to see if there was anything she could do to help. Will was looking decidedly harassed and Adam told his cousin to stay and help his wife. Will looked at them “You two gonna be okay on your own?”

Adam grinned “Sure. We don’t need a bodyguard, do we Joe? Not this time. Hoss only came along before because my right arm was out of action.”

Will nodded, knowing just how capable his cousins were of looking after themselves. “Okay but be careful.”

Adam listened to the cries coming from upstairs as one of the twins screamed “I reckon we have the easy part. You try and keep this lot sane. We’ll be back, probably late this afternoon.” He headed out to the stable to saddle Sport and rode out with Little Joe.

Joe told him about José and the other men and then told him Hoss’ reaction on hearing that his brothers were going to town. Hoss had immediately gone up to get dressed and announced his intention of going with them and it had taken all of Joe’s powers of persuasion to stop him. Even the news that Will was going along had only partially reconciled him, but eventually Joe had managed to persuade him to stay home and nurse his cold. The brothers were confident in their ability to look after themselves and apart from staying rather more alert than usual; they dismissed Pardoe from their minds.

When they reached town Joe stopped off at his friend’s, the stockbroker, while Adam took the lists Carole and Marie had prepared to the store, arranging to pick the things up later. Then seeing Joe across the street he joined his brother and they headed down to the Palace. Joe quietly told his brother that the shares had moved up from their nominal dollar to $29•50. Adam shrugged “It was bound to happen, but I doubt we have control, not at that price. I’d expect the shares to be well over $100 if we were even close. I wonder what they want.”

Joe grinned as they walked into the saloon “It won’t take long to find out, there they are.”

Adam got a couple of beers and then sauntered over to join Fair and Mackay in the corner. John Mackay apologised for dragging Adam into town and suggested that they adjourn upstairs to one of the small private rooms in the Washoe club. Jim Fair looked at Joe with disdain, “Is he coming too?”

Joe was well used to Jim Fair’s opinion of him but he bit back the angry comment leaving Adam to answer. Adam brusquely said, “Joe is an equal partner in Cartwright Enterprises.”

Once they were settled with drinks and a meal ordered for an hour’s time, John began to explain the current position. Counting the stock Adam already held, they had now collected 38% at that morning’s report. Another 5% which Dan de Quille held they could be sure of when it came to a question of control, so they needed another 8% for control although aiming to buy at least another 22% in all. That would give them the 60% they were aiming at initially. Sharon had realised what was going on over the last couple of days and had begun to push up the price of stock. Adam sat doodling figures as he thought about what he had been told and Joe waited for his brother’s opinion. Eventually Adam sat back “I still don’t see that making the price over $100 000 unless something drastic changes. We always reckoned that Sharon would find out sooner or later, It could be a lot worse, I presume he doesn’t know how far we have got?”

Fair said “No and Flood agrees with you about the actual price. That isn’t the problem.”

Adam waited to find out what it was and eventually John said, “Sharon is blocking us. We agreed to send $25 000 to Flood but so far we’ve only managed to send five grand. We were going to convert some of our Savage shares but Sharon had brought up some tax problem and we can’t sell until its sorted. Flood and O’Brien are putting up an extra ten thousand. It’ll come off their share of the assessment once we’ve cleared things up and we’ve got control. We’re asking you to do the same. To bail us out for now while we sort out this tax business.”

Adam sat back and considered what he had been told. These men were old business colleagues but in this they were asking to be virtually carried and yet still retain a quarter share, while the others paid a third each. He looked at his brother but Little Joe signalled him that the discussion was up to him, he would back his brother either way. Adam enquired more about the tax problem and Mackay told him all he knew including who was acting for them. Adam knew enough about the local tax laws to quickly see exactly how Sharon was blocking them, even though neither Fair nor Mackay really understood what was happening. On the basis of what he had been told Sharon could only be buying time, a holding action, there wasn’t a case that he would dare take to court. He explained and the two men understood for the first time what the real position was. Adam had always had a knack of explaining things simply. Jim Fair said “So you think he can stall until the spring court at the beginning of March and then he’ll have to give up?"

Adam nodded, “I shall be very surprised if anything else happens,”

John reverted to the important question “Will you help us out until then?”

Joe grinned and having glanced at his brother said, “Of course we will, anything to beat Sharon. Adam will make you out a cheque now.”

Adam laughed at the expressions on the other men’s faces. “Don’t look so worried. I’m used to Joe pledging my word. He’s usually right and he certainly is this time.” The two men sat back relieved while Adam made out a cheque and then they sat back to enjoy their lunch. They spent a leisurely hour and a half over their lunch discussing the mining situation in general. Fair and Mackay were both convinced that there was still an untouched mother lode in the mountain. Some of their arguments were convincing but Adam and Joe remained sceptical. To them the mines were unreal compared to the cattle, horses and lumber on the Ponderosa. They had a nice handy market for lumber, meat and ice in the spring but even if they lost it, with the railway close they would never lack a market for meat and timber. The Ponderosa was real and it would last.

After lunch they collected the stores and loaded up the horses and then popped into the jail to have a quick word with Roy. He was still nursing his cold although it was beginning to clear up. They chatted for ten minutes and then, as it was already growing dark in the thick cloud, headed on home. Both knew that this was the vulnerable time when they were known to be in town and an ambush could too easily be arranged. Neither said anything but they were both alert and had eased their guns in their holsters ready for instant use. The danger points, as they both knew, were the stretches where the trees grew close to the road, giving plenty of cover for a would be ambush, especially in the growing dark. They negotiated the first stretch, where Adam had been attacked before, with no trouble and rode in silence towards the second and longer stretch.

As they approached the ambush was sprung. Joe heard the shot and saw his brother fall from the saddle. He drew his gun but a voice called to him to drop it or the next bullet would be through Adam’s head.

Joe had no choice but to do as he was told and as he dismounted he was surrounded. He was relieved to see Adam struggling to get up. The first Adam had known about anything was a hammer blow in his right shoulder, which knocked him off Sport. He was stunned and winded by the fall and took time to get a grip on himself, hoping that Joe would get away, but Joe had never thought of leaving his brother. Adam was pulled unceremoniously to his feet and dragged over to join Joe. Joe anxiously asked, “How bad is it?”

Adam managed a grin “Just my shoulder, nothing broken.” Seven masked men surrounded them and then Pardoe came out, not bothering with a mask; that worried the brothers more than anything else. They had accepted that they were in trouble and probably going to take a beating but now if he was sure enough to be unmasked, maybe he didn’t intend to leave them alive. So far nothing that had happened was a killing matter but Pardoe was out for revenge and neither of them were sure how far he would go. After a glance at each other, in which both read the other’s fears; they faced their captors defiantly, showing no sign of fear. Pardoe signalled to two of his men “Okay you know what to do.”

The two men drew their guns and Adam and Joe looked at each other scared however much they tried to hide it. The men didn’t leave them wondering, walking up close; they deliberately took aim and put a bullet in the left thigh of each brother. Joe fell to the ground but Adam just staggered held upright by his captors. He knew that he’d only got a flesh wound but he was worried about his younger brother. Joe was hauled to his feet and found that his leg would take his weight, at least the bone wasn’t broken but the bullet was still in wedged in muscle by the bone and it felt as though it was on fire.

Pardoe laughed “Now the Cartwrights won’t be so good at running away. They’ll have to fight. I’ll take the little one first.”

Adam was held firmly by two men and unable to do anything to help his brother. Joe looked over to his brother “I’m okay. You?”

Adam said “Sure Joe, give him hell.”

Joe couldn’t move, his leg would just take his weight but with any sudden move it threatened to collapse. He was well outweighed anyway and unable to put his weight behind his punches, Pardoe shook them off as though they were feathers. Little Joe did manage to land one on the big man’s nose, which drew blood but that was the sum total of his success. He took several heavy punches to his head and was beginning to lose track of events, dizzy and sick to his stomach and then Pardoe got him in a bearhug. Joe struggled unable to breathe, his senses reeling. He heard someone call out his name but wasn’t even aware that it was Adam. Then Pardoe let him go holding him upright with one hand. Little Joe barely conscious was unable to do a thing to defend himself. He felt his head rocked back again and again and then a fist sank into his stomach, Then the black mercy of oblivion overcame him. Pardoe let him fall and kicked him contemptuously a couple of times.

Adam had stood watching his young brother beaten into a pulp, unable to help, held as he was by two men. He stood in silence hiding his fear and his anger, refusing these men any satisfaction. Only the grim set of his jaw and his eyes showed the fury he felt at what was being done by Pardoe to a much smaller, wounded man. He was scared for his brother knowing Joe could be seriously hurt. When the silence, unbroken except for the grunts and groans of the fighting men, was suddenly broken by the unmistakable snap of a bone breaking Adam couldn’t help himself and called out his brother’s name in desperation “Joe”. He struggled to get to his brother without success and it was with almost a sense of relief that he saw Joe fall unconscious to the ground. He tried to go to his brother but he wasn’t allowed to. One of the men looked at Pardoe “Are you going to finish him off.”

Pardoe shook his head “Just pull him into the trees and leave him. He’ll freeze to death by morning.” Adam had to stand and watch Joe pulled away, knowing that Pardoe was probably right and there was small chance of him seeing Joe alive again. He knew his own chances of surviving the night were vanishingly small. He had been the one who really humiliated Pardoe and having seen what he had done to Joe, he could only dread what was planned for himself.

Adam was forced to mount up and the men led him off into the woods, They took Cochise along, leaving Joe’s unconscious body lying in the snow under the trees. Adam was taken about four miles to the edge of a steep cliff and then Adam was told to dismount. His leg had stiffened up and he nearly fell. He had lost quite a lot of blood from his two wounds in the hour or so since he’d been shot and he felt weak and sick. Pardoe stood hands on hips and laughed “You don’t look so tough now Cartwright.”

Adam stood erect, head high “Proud of what you’ve done to an injured man half your size/”

Pardoe just grinned, “I didn’t do it. Once they find you both, the only reconstruction will be that you did it and then ran up here and committed suicide by jumping over this cliff. We'll make sure that's what people think. Maybe your Pa won’t believe it but he won’t be able to do much when all the town believes it.”

Adam was shocked. He had seen them fire two shots from Joe’s gun and put it back in his holster without taking in the significance. Snow was falling again and would soon hide all traces and if they both died he could imagine what would be said. It seemed strangely irrelevant at the moment and he could only pray that Joe wouldn’t die. He knew the story would hurt Carole and his family, but it would be negligible compared to the hurt of their deaths. Then his thoughts were wrenched back to the present as Pardoe moved towards him. Adam was weakened by loss of blood and partially immobilised by his stiff leg, his right arm out of action again but he was in a white fury over the attack on his brother. He was determined to do what damage he could to Pardoe and almost oblivious of the blows he was taking himself, he landed out as hard as he could. At first he was doing some considerable damage, but then Pardoe landed a blow on his injured shoulder and Adam fell, unable to see through the red mist in front of his eyes. He heard Pardoe laugh and felt a boot thud into his ribs. Adam tried to curl up to protect himself as the kicks came in but unable to protect himself he knew he was being kicked into unconsciousness. His thoughts went to his wife and he prayed that she would be all right and then everything went black as oblivion claimed him.

Pardoe breathing hard and nursing his sore ribs, forced a grin, trying to ignore his bruised and bleeding face “That takes care of Mr Soddin’ High n’ Mighty.”

Clem looked at the damage that Adam had done and said “Not without trouble” but Pardoe was sure of himself again and sent Clem flying with one back handed swipe. Then Pardoe stood gloating over the unconscious figure on the ground. He turned to his men and ordered Sport and Cochise tied to the trees and then he lifted Adam up. Pardoe walked to the cliff edge and dropped the body over. He stood laughing as Adam bounced once on some rocks before coming to rest on a ledge some forty feet down. "That should do him and they’ll have a real job getting the body up from there.” With one last self-satisfied glance down the cliff Pardoe mounted up and led the way back to town to celebrate.

About an hour after he was left in the snow to die Joe came round. For a while he lay still conscious only of pain, every part of his body seemed to ache and the wound in his leg sent stabbing pains through him. He was cold and sore and wanted nothing more than to slip back into oblivion but something was nagging at him, wouldn’t allow him to let go and he tried to remember what had happened. Then suddenly everything came back and he called for Adam and looked round desperately in the dark, but there was nobody there. Joe knew that his brother was in trouble and he needed help. There was nothing he could do himself but if he could get home his father would do all that was needed. He called for Cochise but there was no answering whinny so he knew that Cochise wasn’t within the sound of his voice. If he was to fetch help then he would have to walk back to the house. His mind made up Joe faced practicalities, his leg was still bleeding sluggishly and walking would make that worse so the first need was to pad it. He managed to take off his shirt and tore it up making a pad and tying it in place as tightly as he could. He nearly lost hold of his senses but fear for Adam and the knowledge that he badly needed help himself gave him the strength to hang on. He looked around and saw a stick, which would give him some measure of support, and grabbing it, he pulled himself to his feet. Everything went black for a moment and swirled round him so that he had to hold onto a tree to stay on his feet until gradually the world steadied again.

Joe knew that he was over three miles from the house but it had to be done and he forced himself to think only in terms of the first one hundred steps. He counted as he went and when he had managed one hundred, he told himself that having done it once he could do it again. The landscape had a tendency to turn black and spin, but Joe ignored it just counting his steps, trying to ignore the stabbing pain in his leg. He lost count of the number of times he fell and lay in the snow, Several times he just wanted to give up and slide back into oblivion but each time thought of Marie and of his brother’s plight roused him. They both needed him and he couldn’t just give up and eventually each time he made it back to his feet and struggled on. Long before he reached the ranch he’d forgotten why he was there or where he was going. He stayed on the straight path purely by instinct, deeper than reason. He had given up counting and was on his feet and moving even though he knew he couldn’t walk; his will to live too strong to give in. He was conscious of three things only, the pain, the need to get back to Marie, and the need to tell his father about Adam. Afterwards he could never remember anything of that long walk, just a confused impression of snow and pain, falling and struggling to his feet. He had no idea how long it took him but in fact it was nine-thirty when he staggered into the yard.

Ben and Hoss were sitting by the fire. They had assumed that Joe had gone back to spend the evening with Adam and weren’t worried by his non-appearance. The first thing they knew of trouble was a thump on the door, as Joe fell against it, puzzled Ben went to investigate and, as he opened the door, the body of his youngest son fell into his arms. He said “Oh my God” and hurriedly carried Joe over to the couch and got him lying down. Hoss yelled to Hop Sing for hot water and bandages and then went to the door to search for Adam. There wasn’t any sign of his eldest brother and Hoss was surprised to see no sign of Cochise either.

Hoss went back in and joined his father. Ben was sponging Joe’s face and as Hoss looked questioningly at him Ben looked up “He’s got a bullet in the leg and he’s taken one hell of a beating, at least one broken rib.”

Hoss said “Pardoe.”

Ben nodded “I imagine it was.”

“Adam must be in trouble. There’s no sign of him or of Cochise. Joe must have walked.”

Joe looked down at his son, it didn’t seem possible but if his horse wasn’t there, then his son must have done it. Joe hadn’t quite lost hold of his senses and now he stirred. Hoss brought him some brandy quickly and Ben supported his son’s head as Joe sipped it Joe looked up at his father “You’ve got to find Adam.”

Ben said “Easy son, you’ll be fine drink this and then try and tell us what happened and we’ll go find your brother.”

Joe drank the brandy and then lent back against his father’s warm strength and organised his thoughts. “We were ambushed, three miles from here at the start of the wooded stretch. Pardoe and six or seven masked men, Adam took a bullet in the shoulder, knocked him off Sport. They grabbed us. Put a bullet in each of our legs. Stop us running away. Held Adam. Pardoe fought me. I couldn’t move. Knocked out. When I came round noone was there. All gone. Even Cochise. Walked home. Must find Adam.”

Ben and Hoss looked at each other, it didn’t seem possible that Joe had walked three miles in the state that he was in. He didn’t look as though he could make three yards.

Ben asked, “You’ve no idea where they were going or why?”

Joe stared up at his father “I don’t know anything else that could help. But you have to find him, he’ll die in this weather.”

Ben managed a smile “Don’t worry son, your brother is tough. They left you alive and you’ve got home, I’ll bet Adam’s alive too and probably trying to get home now. We’ll find him.” He turned to Hoss “Get the men ready to ride, those who are well enough. Send someone in for Doc. The bullet is still in and Adam will need Paul when we bring him home. I’ll get Joe to bed and leave Hop Sing with him and then ride over and tell Carole and Marie. Have Kirk saddle Buck for me.”

Hoss nodded and then leaning over his little brother he said, “You take it real easy Joe. You’ve done your part bringing us word. We’ll do ours. We’ll find Adam.” Then he turned and hurried over to the bunkhouse.

Kirk was by the fire and Hoss asked him to saddle Buck in a hurry and then saddle Chub. Then Hoss turned back to the other men and explained what had happened and asked for help. José was the first to get out of his bunk and start dressing but all the others quickly followed him. Colds were forgotten in their anger at the dirty tricks Pardoe had pulled and in their concern for Adam. They had all been angry before at the way Pardoe had crippled Adam but now, in the few brief words Hoss said, they sensed his white fury and his fear for his brother.

Ben carried Joe upstairs and by the time his son was undressed and settled in his own bed, Joe had finally succumbed to the lure of oblivion. Ben stood looking down at Joe’s battered body and wished he could get his hands on Pardoe, but for now it was much more important to find Adam, before exposure completed the job Pardoe had started. He prayed that his eldest son was still alive and then leaving Joe with Hop Sing he hurried out to go and tell his daughters.

As he rode into the yard at Adam’s house, Will came out. He took one look at his Uncle’s face “Trouble?” Ben nodded and Will said, “I should have gone with them. I knew it. We’ve all been trying to persuade ourselves that they had stopped over with you. The twins and Peggy are down with that cold and Laura is just starting it, so Adam told me to stay behind, that they’d be okay.”

Ben gripped Will’s shoulder, “Don’t blame yourself Will. I’m not sure exactly what happened but from the little that Joe told us, it wouldn’t have made any difference if there had been three of you instead of two. They were attacked by seven or eight men.”

Will asked anxiously “They are alright?”

Ben bit his lip, “Joe’s at home. He’ll be okay. The men are heading out to search for Adam.”

Will went very pale and couldn’t think what to say and just followed his uncle in as Ben went to see the two wives. The girls were all sitting by the fire and lost colour at the expression on Ben’s face. Carole came to her feet and Ben went over to her and put his arm round her shoulders. He took Marie’s hand and for a moment struggled to find the words. Then he said, “They were ambushed on the way home. Joe’s at home in bed, he’s hurt but he’ll be fine. We are just going out to find Adam.” Marie sank back in the chair while Carole deathly pale swayed. Ben helped her into a chair and Laura quickly went and poured some brandy. Ben knelt down in front of her and took her hands. “We will find him Carole. We know exactly where to start searching. Joe walked three miles with a bullet in his leg to bring us word. God won’t let his effort be in vain.” Carole got a grip on herself and sat up “He’s alive. I’d know if he was dead.”

Ben kissed her forehead “Of course he is and I’ll bring him home.” Then he turned to Marie and told her the extent of Joe’s injuries and that he had sent for the Doctor.

Will gripped his Uncle’s shoulder “You go and find Adam. You know the country, I’ll look after the girls.” Carole sat up straighter “I’ll go with Marie to look after Joe. Bring Adam there.”

Ben nodded and then dropping a kiss on both girls’ heads, he hurried out to go and join Hoss on the road to town and find his eldest son.

Laura hastily got Peggy up and dressed and then wrapped the sleeping twins warmly, while Will harnessed up the wagon. Carole and Marie clung to each other for a minute and then Carole went upstairs to pack a few clothes and Adam’s nightshirt. Ten minutes later they set out for the main house to tend Joe and await news.

Ben could see the traces in the snow left by his youngest son. In places he could see where Joe had fallen, leaving smudges of blood in the snow. He knew just how badly Joe was hurt and could only marvel that he had made that long walk. His imagination showed him all too clearly how Joe must have suffered and he could only congratulate his son on his endurance. At least Joe’s effort gave them a chance to save Adam, provided he too had been left alive.

Hoss and his men had also seen the tracks made by the exhausted injured man. Hoss was white from sheer fury as he saw for himself the signs of his little brother’s nightmare journey. The hands could all see it on his face and avoided talking to him. Joe was very popular with the men and they were angered by what had been done. The sign demonstrated only too clearly what a hell of a journey he’d had and it was a very quiet bunch of men who reached the ambush site. The hands sat on their horses talking quietly, but with the low throb of anger clearly apparent, while Hoss and José examined the sign with the help of lanterns. Some snow had fallen after Joe had been abandoned but not much. Hoss stood staring at the blood all around knowing it was his brothers. The impression in the snow where Joe had lain very clear, José left his friend alone understanding his feelings and looked around. Ten horses leave quite a trail and despite the light covering of snow, it was very clear. Snow had been knocked off branches and the tracks themselves still showed in the snow. José checked the tracks blowing away the fresh snow and soon found tracks that he recognised both Sport and Cochise had gone along the trail. He called to Hoss, who was just examining the tracks, when Ben rode up.

Hoss got to his feet “How did they take it?”

Ben gripped his big son’s shoulder “They are both strong. Carole nearly fainted but once she got a grip she said that Adam was alive, she’d know if he was dead. Will is taking them both over to nurse Joseph and wait for Adam.”

Hoss nodded “I’m not surprised, my brothers chose two good’uns. The tracks lead this way. Sport and Cochise are with them.”

Ben swung back on Buck “Right let’s follow.” The cavalcade slowly moved out, spread out through the trees to ensure that they didn’t miss anything. They could only go slowly as Hoss followed the trail with José’s help to make sure there was no split. It took them three quarters of an hour to reach the cliff top. Ben and Hoss spurred forward as they saw the two horses tethered at the edge of the trees. They dismounted at a run and hurried over to the horses calling for Adam, but there was no sign of him. Ben called to the men to look around while he and Hoss examined the horses. There was blood on Sport’s saddle but they already knew Adam had been shot so it didn’t help much. José called to them “There’s been one hell of a fight here by the looks of it.” The two men hurried over and were examining the sign when a yell came from the cliff edge “He’s down here.”

Ben and Hoss ran over and stood in silence looking down at the body far below them. Until that moment both men had believed that Adam, like Joe would have been left beaten and hurt, but alive, somewhere under the trees, and that provided they could find him before he died of exposure, everything would be alright. Hoss looked at the sign and then, swallowing hard to get control of his voice, he said, “Noone fell over. Someone stood just there. They must have thrown him over.”

Ben unable to say anything just gripped his son’s arm. Hoss licked his lips “He may still be alive.”

Ben looked at the sheer drop of near fifty feet and knew that the chances were remote, but he straightened up “I’ll go down to him.”

It was a stiff climb down with very little visible in the way of foot holds and Hoss looked at his father, knowing he shouldn’t really attempt it, but rock climbing wasn’t one of his own skills. As he hesitated, Jess came forward “I’m good at climbing Mr Cartwright, I used to do it for sport back east. Let me go down to him.”

Ben shook his head “Thank you but no, its too dangerous. He’s my son, I’ll do it.”

Jess pushed “I’m more likely to be able to help him and anyway I owe him my life.”

Puzzled Ben looked at him and Jess explained “I took a fall over a cliff on the way to Sacramento, Adam pulled me up. I owe him.”

Ben still wasn’t sure and looked at Hoss who said, “ Jess is right. He has more chance of reaching Adam than we do.”

Ben gave way but insisted that Jess rope up; he wasn’t going to risk any more lives. He looked down at the limp body far below and his heart was heavy, he couldn’t help but feel that Adam was dead. Hoss could read his father’s thoughts so clear on his face and he knew it was long odds against him being wrong. Hoss stood staring down, seeing Adam on his wedding day; as he had been in the quiet of the night on their way home from Fallon while Joe slept; so many other memories of times when he had relied on his eldest brother; and superimposed on them that body way below. He felt a very real pain in his chest with fear for his brother.

Jess roped up and then began the long climb down while José controlled the rope and the horse to which it was attached. Ben and Hoss stood close together for mutual consolation, staring down, silent in their unspoken fear that Jess was risking this for a dead body. The other men stood watching, understanding their fear and unable to help. All of them believed that Adam couldn’t have survived the fall, whatever else had been done to him. It was a stiff climb with few handholds and Jess went very steadily testing each foothold before trusting his weight to it. If Adam was alive he would have to carry him back up and extra time taken now to check the best route would mean the difference between success or failure on the return trip. To those waiting up top he seemed to take forever, but Ben was oblivious of time as he stood staring down at his eldest son. In his heart he was already mourning him, remembering so many things from the past, from the days when he had travelled west with a serious little boy his only companion, to more recent times when Adam had finally seemed to find the happiness he sought.

Twice Jess slipped but each time José was ready to take the weight and Jess was able to grab hold again and work his way on down. The ledge Adam was on was several feet wide and he was in no imminent danger of falling even if he should move; so Jess took the time he needed, considering carefully each move before he made it.

After a seeming eternity Jess reached the ledge and José immediately signalled to one of the others to lower a lantern. It quickly reached Jess and those above could see him kneeling by Adam in a little pool of light far below them. Ben and Hoss both stood tense hardly breathing as they watched and then Jess stood up and waving yelled “He’s alive, alive.” There was a great hurrah from the hands. Ben sank to his knees, suddenly weak, and said a silent prayer of thanksgiving. Hoss stood his hand on his father’s shoulder not even aware of the tears running down his cheeks. He watched Jess kneel down again by his brother and examine him carefully. Then Jess yelled up “Send down splints he’s broken his arm and bandages.” José quickly passed the things down

Jess splinted Adam’s arm and got a pad on the shoulder wound. He was worried by a great area of bruising on Adam’s right ribs but he couldn’t feel any break s so he just got it bandaged up tightly to prevent any more damage. Then thinking back many years he remembered how he had been taught to strap an injured man to his back to minimise the danger of further damage on moving him. Once he had Adam strapped on securely he yelled to José that he was coming back up. The ascent took even longer, Adam was heavier than Jess and Jess could only just manage his weight, but the time and care spent on the descent paid dividends. Jess didn’t hesitate or slip just slowly made his way back up. When he reached the top there were plenty of eager hands to help him unstrap Adam. Ben knelt by his son and felt for his pulse. It was there rather fast but considering everything very strong. He didn’t interfere with Jess’ handiwork and couldn’t even find words to thank him, just wordlessly putting out his hand to the other man. Hoss looked down at his brother “There ain’t no way to thank you Jess. But anytime you need anything you just ask.”

Jess shook his head “Adam and I are square. I told you I owed him.”

Hoss wrapped his brother in a thick blanket ad handed him up to his father on Buck. Adam was desperately cold and they needed to get him home and into bed as quickly as possible. Then Hoss said, “I’ll ride on ahead. Let Carole know.”

Ben nodded at least Hoss could ensure that everything was ready and he could understand his big son’s need to be alone for a few minutes.

At the main house Carole and Marie had gone straight to Little Joe. He was still unconscious after his great efforts, having given in once he had help on the way to his brother. The marks of the beating were all too obvious on his face. Marie was used to violence having worked in saloons and Carole had nursed Joe through a much worse beating so neither of them panicked. Carole went and fetched ointment and between them they finished cleaning Joe up. Hop Sing had already made a good start but he stood back and let the girls take over, knowing they needed to do something. Laura got Peggy and the twins settled and then she and Will went in to see what they could do. Laura saw that everything was under control and went down to fetch coffee, She laced each cup with brandy. Both girls had had a shock and although they were remarkably calm, there would probably be a delayed reaction and they were pregnant.

Once everything possible was done for Joe, Carole went and stared out of the window at the view that Adam loved so much. She was scared but surprised at how calm she felt. She knew they’d find him alive, Adam couldn’t be dead without her knowing. Laura came over and put her arm round Carole “Come and sit down have some coffee. You must rest all you can, then you’ll be fit to help Adam when they bring him home.” Carole let herself be led to the fire and sat by it while Marie sat by Joe watching the inert body of the man she loved.

For three hours the four of them sat in silence in Joe’s room; Joe didn’t stir. Then they heard a horse and Carole ran to the window but she turned back disappointed “It’s the Doc.”

Will said, “I’ll go down and get him. Take it easy Carole, its bound to take them a little while, it’s very dark. Adam’s tough he’ll be okay.”

Carole sank back into a chair by the fire, trying to hang onto her certainty that Adam was alright.

The Doc came up and immediately told Will to take Carole and Marie out. There was no point in upsetting them more than was necessary. He smiled at Laura, they were old friends and she could give him all the help he needed. Paul checked out Joe’s ribs first and found just the single broken one. He bandaged Joe’s chest for support but left the bruising alone the girls had done a good job on that. Then he turned his attention to the bullet in his leg. He examined it and then looked up at Laura “The Cartwrights never fail to amaze me. I wouldn’t have thought anyone could walk three hundred yards on this leg, let alone three miles. They have fantastic endurance.”

Laura asked anxiously “Has he done it any real harm?”

Paul shook his head “No, he’s lost some blood and he must have been in a lot of pain but basically he’s just exhausted. On the other hand he got under cover quicker than he would have done otherwise so he’s not suffering from the effects of exposure. He’ll be up in a week, knowing Joe, and fully recovered in a month.” He had Laura hold Joe’s leg while he probed for the bullet. It wasn’t too bad and within five minutes, he had it out and began cleaning the wound. Joe hadn’t really stirred, just once he moaned as the pain caught him.

As the Doc washed up, Laura went to fetch Marie. Carole and Will came up with her. Paul repeated what he had told Laura, Joe was going to be fine. Marie relaxed and as Will took the Doc down for a drink Marie went over to Carole. Carole managed a grin “I’m glad that Joe’s going to be fine soon.”

Marie, scared for Adam, said, “I don’t know how you stay so calm.”

Carole shrugged “He’s alive. I’d know if he wasn’t.” Marie prayed that she was right, she was very fond of Adam, owed him a lot and she knew just how much the brothers meant to each other.

Paul stayed on; knowing that Adam would need him, if he was brought home alive. As the hours passed all of them began to feel that it would be a miracle if Adam was found alive. Somehow Carole held onto her certainty, despite the looks she was getting from the others. She knew that they all thought she was a widow now, but her heart fought against it, although her mind had to admit that it would take a miracle for an injured man to survive in this weather.

They seemed to wait forever and then they heard a horse. Will was at the window and said “Its Hoss.” Carole was out of the door before anyone else moved and ran downstairs. She was halfway across the room when Hoss came in. She stopped dead and stared at him, seeing the traces of tears on his face. Hoss saw her and came forward quickly “He’s alive. Pa’s bringing him home.”

Carole broke down for the first time that terrible night and Hoss took her in his arms and held her close, letting her sob out her relief. Then he suddenly became aware of the others on the stairs. He looked up and grinned, “Pa is bringing him home, he’ll be okay.” With relief both women began to cry and Will put his arms round both of them. Hoss led Carole over to the fire and then went and poured her a drink. Once she calmed down a bit Hoss came back to her. He’d told Doc briefly what to expect and had sent Hop Sing to warm Adam’s bed.

Marie called down to say that Joe was coming round and knowing that his brother would be worried about Adam, Hoss said “Come on Carole I’ll tell you all I know upstairs.” Carole nodded and they went on up. Will had helped Joe to sit up supported by pillows. They’d told him Adam was on his way home but he wanted to hear from Hoss.

Hoss settled Carole in the chair by the bed and held her hand for reassurance as he sat on the bed by Joe and told them all just how they had found Adam. The fear that he had felt, during the long wait for Jess to climb down to his brother, was all too clear in his voice and they could all imagine the scene very easily. Hoss told them what he could about Adam’s condition, “He was very cold but his pulse was quite strong. His right arm is broken and he’s got a very bruised patch on his ribs but Jess didn’t think any were broken. He must have been unconscious when they threw him over; it’s the only way he could have escaped so easily. He’s taken a beating like Joe and as we know has two bullet wounds, the one on his leg’s just a gash and the one through his shoulder looked to be clean. He’ll be okay.”

Paul asked anxiously, “Head wounds?”

“Nothing obvious, no blood, no large bumps.”

Carole was trembling and Hoss got up and lifted her up, sitting down himself and pulling her onto his lap. She lent back against him, grateful for his warm strength. The others sat in silence, thanking God for his mercy. Joe still looked very worried and Hoss did his best to reassure his little brother "Easy Joe, he'll be fine. Pa will have him home within half an hour.” Joe relaxed a little and his weakness released him and he soon drifted back to sleep. Once they realised the other five moved through into Adam’s room so they didn’t disturb him, leaving Marie with her husband.

Hoss stood for a long moment staring down at his little brother before going next door. He was very sombre as he said, “I’ll never know where Joe found the strength to make that walk. Over the last mile he fell every few steps, the tracks were clear in the snow. He certainly saved Adam’s life, Adam would have died by morning in this weather.”

Ben held his son in front of him on Buck, every so often he checked his son’s pulse but it remained strong. He was very worried by the deathly cold of his son’s body, even through two blankets and Adam’s thick logging coat, the cold reached Ben and Adam seemed to be having trouble breathing. Ben was heartily grateful when they reached the house. At least he could get his son into a nice warm bed and Doc should be there.

Will was standing by the window and saw Ben and the men approaching, Hoss hurried down and was waiting as his father pulled up in the yard. He took his brother from Ben and carried Adam straight up to his bed. Ben followed leaving Kirk to see to his horse. Between them Ben and Hoss undressed Adam carefully and got him into bed. Doc checked his equipment and then asked Laura and Will to take Carole downstairs. She had checked her husband’s pulse for herself and kissed him but she was loath to leave him. Paul took her hand “Ben and Hoss can give me any help I need. You must try and rest, he’ll need you later and anyway you have the baby to consider.” Reluctantly Carole let Laura lead her out.

Paul removed the strapping Jess had put round Adam’s chest. The whole of the right side was one big purple bruise and Doc examined it carefully and then grinned at Ben “It’s only bruising far as I can tell, looks worse than it is.” He bandaged Adam’s shoulder and set his right arm and then bandaged the bullet gash on his leg. Adam had hit his head somewhere and despite Hoss’ earlier check there was a gash just above his right ear but Paul probed it and decided it was minor, maybe a very mild concussion but no real problem. He did what he could for the many bruises and then turned his attention to his patient’s over all condition. Adam was still very cold and shivering uncontrollably at times. Doc examined him quickly and then with Hoss help got him wrapped up in a cocoon of blankets. Hop Sing brought hot stones and wrapped them in linen placing them round Adam while Ben built up the fire.

When Paul straightened up Ben asked anxiously “How is he?”

Paul came over to the fire and sat down before he spoke. “As far as actual injuries are concerned they are remarkably slight considering how far he fell. As Hoss said he was saved because he was unconscious when he fell. If he had gone over conscious he’d almost certainly be dead but his body was relaxed not tense and like very young children or drunks he escaped relatively unscathed. The bullet wounds are clean and nor problem except for the blood loss.” As he hesitated, the other men could hear the ‘but’ hanging in the air, it was Hoss who found his voice first “What is it then?”

Paul went on “Its early days yet, he’s very cold. He may escape with no ill effects but I don’t like the sound of his chest. You may have a case of double pneumonia on your hands.”

Ben and Hoss looked at each other, they had nursed Adam through pneumonia once before and knew how close they had come to losing him. Ben said, “He came through before, does having had it before lessen his chances?”

Paul shook his head “No but last time only one lung was affected. I’m scared that both are this time. I may be wrong, he may escape without anything. We should have a firmer idea by lunchtime, so I’ll hang on. My wife knows where to send a message if anything urgent comes up in town. By the way had Adam started this cold that’s going around? I see Hoss has it.”

Ben shrugged “Not as far as I know. Joe would be the only one to know if it started up yesterday they were together all day.”

“Ask him next time he wakes up. I’d like to know but its not urgent, don’t wake him deliberately.”

Hoss looked at his father “Are you gonna tell Carole about the risk of that pneumonie?”

Ben stared down at his eldest son “She’s his wife Hoss. She has the right to know. We can’t say he’s gonna be fine and then in a few hours spring it on her.” Hoss nodded “I’ll stay with him for a bit, you go tell her.”

Ben looked at his big son, who was still deep in the throes of his cold. Hoss was rather flushed and looked exhausted "It would be more to the point if you went to bed Hoss. You look all in." Hoss shrugged “I couldn't sleep Pa, not tonight.” He fell silent staring down at his eldest brother and Ben saw the anger on his face at what had been done to his brothers. Ben left him alone and went down with Doc to see Carole.

Carole was sitting by the fire with Laura and jumped to her feet as they came down. She read most of the truth in Ben’s face and was quite calm as the Doc explained the situation. As he finished she nodded “I understand. My cousin died of pneumonia but Adam’s strong. We’ll pull him through.” Then she went upstairs to sit with her husband. Adam was beginning to get very restless, his temperature rapidly rising and Hoss was having a problem holding him still. Carole sat down next to the bed and laid her hand on his forehead and began talking to him. Slowly her voice penetrated to Adam and he lay still. His hands and body still felt icy only his forehead was burning hot. Hoss made up the fire again and fetched fresh hot bricks to try and warm his brother. Adam was still shivering and his breathing was becoming more difficult and painful.

Doc came back up to find Carole looking desperately worried as Adam breathed

stertorously through his mouth, each breath seemingly a great effort. Paul made a quick examination and then stood back “I’m pretty sure he must have been starting that cold and with exposure it’s turned to pneumonia. It seems worse on the right side. It was his left lung affected last time."

Carole asked, “What can we do?”

“Not a lot I’m afraid, we can only rely on his own body’s defence mechanism fighting it off but we can help him to breathe more easily. Then it’s a case of keeping him warm and trying to break the fever.” Hoss went and fetched more pillows and they propped Adam up with them, which seemed to help a little and then Doc got him to build up a tent of blankets over his brother. Doc placed bowls of boiling water with turpentine oil in them so that Adam would breath the fumes. It gradually seemed to help and Adam began to breathe more easily.

Ben finally managed to persuade both Carole and Hoss to go and get some sleep. It was obviously going to be a long fight and Adam wasn’t aware who was with him.

Ben left the connecting door open between the two rooms and heard Marie as Joe finally woke up. Adam was fairly quiet so Ben went through to his youngest son. Joe was struggling to sit up and Ben helped him and put pillows to support his son. Marie went down to get some broth and Joe asked, “How is Adam?”

Ben sat down on the bed “His injuries are slight, a broken arm, a clean shoulder wound, minor flesh wound on his thigh, bruising and maybe a slight concussion, but he’s got pneumonia.”

Ben fell quiet and Joe sighed heavily staring at his father remembering the past. “Poor old Adam, he was just starting that cold anyway. He was sneezing well on the way home.”

Ben nodded “Paul thought he’d probably caught it. You did your part Joe. If we hadn’t found Adam when we did he’d be dead by now, but you’ve given him the chance to live. Now it’s his fight and we both know he’s a good fighter. He’ll be okay.”

Little Joe sat staring into space, he could hear his brother fighting for breath in the next room and each gasping breath hurt Joe physically. He looked up at his father and knew that Ben was desperately worried and not wanting to make matters worse, he forced a grin. “Adam will be fine. It takes more than a few hours exposure to kill him off. I’m fine Marie can get anything I need.”

Ben squeezed his son’s shoulder “Just take it easy Joseph and you’ll be up and around to help us keep Adam quiet, when he starts fretting to be up.”

Joe nodded “Sure Pa, Don’t worry too much, we’ll both be fine and then I’ll help Adam take Pardoe to pieces.”

Ben went back in and sat by Adam. All he could do was to renew the hot bricks and the steam pots and try and hold Adam still. Adam was delirious and kept insisting that Carole wasn’t to be frightened. Most of the time his mutterings were indistinguishable but throughout there ran a double thread of fear, for Carole and for Little Joe, the brother he’d last seen abandoned unconscious in the snow to die.

Later Will and Laura came in and insisted that Ben at least go and eat, try and rest, even if he didn’t think he could sleep. Ben succumbed and managed to force down some breakfast and then desperately tired he did lie down and slept for four hours.

When he went back to Adam there was no sound but the sick man’s tortured breathing. He went in to find Carole and Hoss with Adam, who was at least resting quietly. The beneficial effects of the turpentine seemed to be wearing off despite renewals of the pots and Adam was struggling for each breath. Ben felt his son’s forehead and he was burning up with fever, but at least his pulse was strong albeit rather fast.

Carole sat quietly holding her husband’s hand and keeping cold compresses on his head. Hoss said, “He’s been resting a lot quieter since Carole came in. He was babbling continuously before. I’m sure he knows she is here.”

Ben forced a grin “That’s a good sign. The stiller he rests the better it conserves his strength. Have you managed to get him to swallow any broth?”

Carole shook her head “Only a few sips of water. He’s having such a struggle to breathe that he almost gagged on that.”

Ben said, “Well never mind, it won’t harm him to go without food for a couple of days.”

Hoss left them with Adam and went into his little brother, who had just woken up again. Joe immediately asked about Adam. Hoss shrugged “No change, he’s resting fairly quiet and his pulse is strong, but he’s still fighting for breath and he’s got quite a fever.”

Joe sighed heavily resting back on his pillow and he looked very flushed. Hoss went over to him “You’re running a temperature yourself Joe. How does your leg feel?”

Joe shrugged but admitted that it was sore. In fact it felt as though it was on fire and every part of his body ached from the effects of the beating and the long walk. Hoss pulled back the bedclothes and redressed Joe’s leg and put fresh ointment on his brother’s cuts and bruises. By the time he'd finished Marie was back with broth and coffee. Hoss helped his brother to sit up and then left him with his wife.

Hoss knew that his younger brother would be okay in a week or so and only time would really help him, but that hadn’t been the intention when Joe was left in the snow.

Hoss was very quiet over lunch and when Ben went back upstairs to join Carole, Hoss went over to the door and began strapping on his gun.

Will asked, “Where are you going?”

Hoss no longer able to restrain the anger he felt at what had been done to his brothers said “Town”. His face told the rest of the story. Will went over and got his coat. Hoss looked at him and Will grinned, “I won’t interfere Hoss but I’m fond of Adam and Joe too and I’m not missing this.” Hoss nodded and asked Laura to explain to Ben at dinner where they had gone.

When they went outside Kirk asked, “Are you going to town?”

Hoss nodded and, to his surprise, by the time he had saddled Chub, José, Jess, Kirk and every other hand, who had been on the search the night before, were saddled up ready up go. They could see in Hoss’ face his intention to deal with Pardoe and José spoke for them all “We wouldn’t miss this for six month’s pay. This time we’ll make sure that it’s a fair fight.”

Hoss nodded “Okay but Pardoe is mine.” The whole crowd rode out and Laura stood watching them from the window, surprised just how vindictive she felt as she stood watching them. She hoped that Hoss would give Pardoe more than a taste of his own medicine.

Laura went back upstairs to join Marie. Joe was asleep so the two women played quietly with the twins in the room across the hall, leaving the doors open so that they would hear if Joe stirred.

Ben persuaded Carole to go and lie down for an hour. Adam was fairly quiet and Carole knew she had to sleep so she agreed. Ben sat quietly by Adam but within ten minutes of Carole leaving Adam was babbling in delirium. Ben held him as quiet as he could, Carole had to get some rest but he was very glad to see her come back in an hour later. She sat down and took Adam’s hand and put her other hand on his forehead, then she started talking quietly to him and gradually he calmed down. Eventually he murmured Carole and slid into a quiet sleep. His breathing was still harsh and painful but Ben thought it was slightly easier than earlier on. Carole wasn’t sure but she did know that his temperature was higher and his pulse was weaker. She sat by him all afternoon hardly talking but grateful for her father-in-law’s calm presence. Ben tried to reassure her, he’d seen Adam as ill before and he’d made a full recovery, Carole looked down at her husband and panic wasn't far away but she fought it down and tried to relax. She wouldn't help Adam by getting herself into a state and risking their child.

Hoss rode into town oblivious of the men at his back and, after one look at his tight drawn face, they made no attempt to intrude on his thoughts. As they rode into town Roy saw them and followed, Doc had brought word back to town, just what had happened to Adam and Joe and Roy could see on Hoss’ face that he was out for revenge. If it was going to be taken with his fists on a one to one basis then Roy wouldn't interfere but he had no intention of allowing a gunfight or a mass battle between the Ponderosa hands and the miners. Hoss headed straight for the Bucket O’Blood, all the trouble had started there and he fully expected to find Pardoe at the bar.

As the Ponderosa hands walked in, a sudden silence fell and Pardoe and his men, still celebrating turned round from the bar. Hoss walked forward oblivious of everyone else and stood in front of Pardoe. The two big men looked at each other, about equal in height although Hoss was slightly heavier. Then Hoss said “You seem keen on fighting Cartwrights, you bin practising on my brothers, now you’ll face me. I’m your size.”

Pardoe shrugged “That was ages ago I’ve no fight with you.”

Hoss stared at him and the utter contempt and disgust was all too clear on his face and in his voice as he said, “Last night weren’t an age ago. You made a mistake. In fact you made two, Joe walked home and told us what happened and we brought Adam home. They’re both alive.”

Pardoe was shocked but disbelieving “You’re lying he was dead and Joe weren’t going nowhere.” Only by the sudden gasp from the crowd did he realise that he’d incriminated himself. Hoss tight lipped said, “You did your best to ensure they didn’t go anywhere. You put a bullet in Joe’s leg but he still walked home and you really should have made sure Adam was conscious when you threw him over the cliff. Because he was out cold he wasn’t badly hurt. Still it wasn’t for want of trying, Now you can try your luck with me.”

Pardoe looked round for help, but all his men were surrounded by Ponderosa hands, weakly he said “It ain’t fair, you’re bigger’n me.”

Hoss laughed but there was no mirth in it “What would you call fair? Joe’s some seventy pounds lighter than you are but to even things up with him you put a bullet in his leg. To make it even with Adam you put two bullets in him. I reckon you’ll have to wait until I’m dying fer it t’be fair.”

Pardoe looked despairingly round the saloon but most faces mirrored the contempt he saw on Hoss’. He quickly realised that his only chance was to stand up to Hoss and fight here and now or he was finished in Virginia City. He took off his gunbelt and Hoss followed suit, while José and his men cleared a space for the two big men.

Pardoe might have drunk too much beer but he was experienced in the ways and tricks of rough fighting and now he wasn’t underestimating his opponent he knew enough to cover up and not let Hoss have it all his own way. As the two men sounded each other out, the Ponderosa hands and Will were all under questioning to find out the background of this fight. As word spread so interest increased and for once on a major fight there was no betting. Not a man present would have risked a cent against Hoss after what had been done to his brothers.

Gradually the pattern of the fight developed as Hoss began moving forwards. Hoss, now that he’d got his hands on the man who’d done so much damage, was completely oblivious of the blows she was taking himself. All he wanted was to make Pardoe suffer some of the pain that he had inflicted on Adam and Joe and even more important to break forever any influence he had in town and prevent any repetition. Pardoe was fast becoming desperate, Adam had taught his brother enough of the science of boxing for Pardoe to be unable to break through his guard. He had managed to get a couple of heavy punches through to Hoss’ head but for once he was fighting a man of his own weight and instead of them flooring Hoss, he just shook them off. Pardoe tried to knee Hoss in the groin but Hoss was ready for such a move and took it on his thigh. In return he got one heavy punch to Pardoe’s midriff which put the big man down. Hoss stood back and allowed Pardoe to get back on his feet, he wasn’t getting off that lightly. Pardoe came off the floor with a lunge in a blind fury and the two men stood exchanging blow for blow neither of them giving an inch, while the crowd surged ever closer, eager not to miss anything despite the best efforts of Will, José and the men. The saloon was silent apart from the heavy breathing of the two opponents and the grunts as blows went home. Hoss was taking a lot of punishment he might have avoided but he didn’t care in the satisfaction of getting his fist home. They were both blood-stained and beginning to stagger when Hoss’ foot slipped in some blood and in the moment that he was off balance Pardoe grabbed him in a bear hug. There was a groan from the audience, which faded to silence as Hoss exerted his strength and gradually stretched his shoulders and broke the bear hug. Then with one punch into Pardoe’s neck sent his man sprawling momentarily helpless, Some of the men at the back yelled at Hoss to kick the hell out of him but Hoss didn’t fight that way and he stood back breathing hard while Pardoe struggled to his feet. Pardoe stood head bowed and looked completely broken but then all of a sudden he kicked out at Hoss. If it had landed it would have finished the contest there and then but Hoss was ready and he grabbed Pardoe’s foot and sent the man crashing full length on the floor.

Hoss stood watching but Pardoe was making no attempt to get up. He brushed the back of his hand across his bleeding lips and glared down at Pardoe “That’s only a small part of what you deserve. Get out of town because next time I see you I shan’t bother with my fists. Once is enough to dirty my hands on you.” Then he turned his back and went to the bar where Don was pouring out drinks.

As soon as he turned his back Pardoe struggled to his feet and grabbed a gun from Clem. He lined up on Hoss’ back, so furious that he was totally oblivious of the results of committing murder in front of over a hundred witnesses. Luckily several people hadn’t relaxed their vigilance and four guns sounded almost as one. Hoss whirled round as a bullet hit the bar just to the left of his leg and saw Pardoe lying dead. Hoss looked round and saw Will, José and Roy all holding their guns. Roy was the first to speak “I don’t know whose bullet killed him and I don’t care. He asked for it. We’ll have the inquest tomorrow but there won’t be no trouble.”

There was a rumble of support from the crowd, several of whom were going for Clem. Roy broke that up but refused to listen to Clem’s protestations that Pardoe had just taken his gun. “I don’t care, you’ve been involved in what’s bin going on. Now get out of town and stay out.” Clem didn’t need to be asked twice and he disappeared as fast as he could, thankful that he was getting off so lightly.

Hoss scrounged a bowl and some water and then announced drinks on him, while he cleaned up with Will’s help. For the moment he couldn’t even feel the bruises, just satisfaction that he had evened things up for his brothers and relief that Pardoe was no longer a threat. He was glad that Pardoe was dead although he couldn’t have killed him and the only remaining worry was Adam’s condition. It took quite a while for Hoss to break away from all his well wishers but he managed it eventually and leaving most of the hands to celebrate headed home with Will and José.

Ben was pre-occupied with his eldest son and didn’t even notice Hoss’ absence during the afternoon, he vaguely assumed his son was either resting or in with Joe and Marie. It wasn’t until he went downstairs for dinner and found only Laura and Peggy there that he began to wonder. Carole and Marie were having trays upstairs and so the table was only laid for three. Ben looked at Laura and suddenly realised where Hoss had gone. He sighed deeply “Hoss has gone to find Pardoe?”

Laura nodded “He left straight after lunch, he didn’t want to worry you but Pardoe had to pay for what he did.”

Ben nodded slowly “I should have known.”

Laura smiled “Don’t worry Hoss can handle Pardoe, he had to do it and he didn’t go alone. Will went with him, as did José leading I’d guess the whole of the bunkhouse. They’ll ensure this time it is a fair fight,”

Ben accepted that under those conditions Hoss would be okay, he only hoped his son wouldn’t kill Pardoe in anger. Hoss would find it hard to live with himself if he had gone to town deliberately to kill Pardoe in revenge; even though the man richly deserved it. Ben was very quiet throughout the meal and Laura stopped Peggy bothering him.

Ben went back upstairs to Carole but didn’t tell her about Hoss, she had enough to worry her. There was no change in Adam’s condition and little that they could do to help him, so they sat in silence. It was mid evening when Ben heard horses coming in and went downstairs. Will and Hoss came in together but Will excused himself and went straight upstairs to join Laura. Hoss took off his coat and then came and sat down by the fire. Ben after one look at his son’s battered face poured out two large brandies and went and joined Hoss. Hoss stared into the fire “How’s Adam?”

“No change.” And then he waited for Hoss to tell him what had happened. Hoss sat silent for a moment, after a sleepless night of worry and a hard fight on top of his cold, he was all in. Eventually he looked up at his father “Pardoe is dead.”

Ben waited for his son to elaborate but for a long minute Hoss didn’t say anything just sipping his brandy, then he said, “I didn’t kill him. I fought him and beat him. Then I told him to get out of town and stay out. I turned my back on him and he drew down on me. Roy, Will and José all shot him and he’s dead. Roy’s having an inquest tomorrow but he said there won’t be no trouble.”

Ben nodded “Roy will handle it.”

Hoss scrubbed the back of his hand across his mouth and then burst out “I had to do it Pa. After what he did. I had to break him in town, Partly to make him pay for Adam and Little Joe, partly make him stop hurting them anymore.”

Ben moved closer to his big son and put his arm round Hoss’ broad shoulders. “Easy Hoss. I don’t blame you. I know exactly how you felt. When Laura told me I just hoped that you hadn’t gone to town to kill him. Despite what he’d done you would have found that hard to live with, but you didn’t. You handled things exactly right, and he deserved all that he got. I’m proud of you son. Just forget him.”

Hoss relaxed at his father’s words, he was so exhausted that he could hardly keep his eyes open. Ben squeezed his shoulder “Go up to bed Hoss and I’ll bring some ointment for those bruises, You’re fit for nothing at the moment, get some sleep.”

Hoss nodded, he knew he couldn’t do anything until he’d had some rest and he headed upstairs.

Joe had eaten some dinner and gone back to sleep. Will had filled Laura and Marie in on events in town and they were sitting quietly chatting in the spare room when Hoss came up, Marie and Laura both went out to him. Marie said, “I’m glad you made Pardoe pay for what he did.”

Hoss grinned at her “Both my sisters are little wildcats in defence of their own.”

Marie was deadly serious as she said “Anyone who could leave Joe in the snow to die and throw Adam over a cliff doesn’t deserve to live. You made him pay just a little for what he did.”

Hoss kissed her forehead and then went over to Adam’s room. He went in and stared down at his brother who was still struggling for every breath. Carole looked up at her brother-in-law and saw signs of the fight “What have you been doing?”

Hoss moved over next to her, put his arm round her shoulders and briefly told her what had happened in town, Carole sat watching her husband as Hoss spoke and as he finished she turned to Hoss “Thank you. I’m glad he’s dead but it doesn’t help Adam now.”

Hoss felt his brother’s pulse and was alarmed to feel how much weaker it was than that morning. He tried to hide his fear from Carole without much success “Adam’s strong he’ll pull round.”

Carole stared down at her husband, she had been telling herself that all day but she was beginning to fear that they were wrong. Hoss kissed her on the forehead and then bent over his brother, straightening the bedclothes with a silent prayer, before going to his own room. Even his fears for Adam couldn’t keep his tiredness at bay and as soon as his father had seen to his cuts and bruises he fell into a deep sleep.

Ben insisted that Carole go and sleep for a few hours. She was close to collapse and gave in on his promise to call her is there was any change. Ben sat his son, who was deeply unconscious, at least he was quiet, too far out of it for delirium, the only sound his laboured breathing. Ben knew that his son was growing weaker by the hour as his body fought the high fever and fought for air. The Doc was coming back early the following morning anyway, not the Ben thought he could do anything. It was really up to Adam and to God. He sat quietly reading his bible and drawing enough strength from that infallible source to remain calm. There was no real change by the time Carole came back soon after three, Will followed her in “I’ll sit with Carole and Adam in case she needs any help, you should go and get some sleep.”

Carole promised she would call if there was any need and Ben nodded, his eyelids felt as though they were made of sandpaper and he knew he had to get some sleep if he was to cope.

The Doc was out early soon after Ben and Hoss rejoined Carole. Paul examined his patent and he was very serious as he stood up. He passed over some medicine he’d made up to try and help, but he shook his head. The three of them looked at him unable to ask and for a moment Paul didn’t speak. He sighed “I expected him to be worse before he started getting better, but he’s weakening rapidly. It will go one way or the other in the next twenty-four hours. If this fever doesn’t break, it will kill him by morning.”

Carole sank down her head on her arms holding her husband's hand. Hoss asked, “Isn’t there anything we can do?”

Paul shrugged “That medicine might help a little but all you can really do is pray. The only thing I can recommend for you is a stiff drink,”

Ben swallowed hard “I think we’ve been praying all night but sometimes it seems that God doesn’t hear.”

Paul gripped his old friend’s arm “God has always heard you in the past. All of your sons have stood even closer to death than Adam is at the minute and survived.” Ben tried to shake off the feeling of total despair, which had gripped him, but it was Carole who answered. She sat up, her face drawn and tear stained but she was smiling “God does hear. Adam won’t die. I won’t let him, he’s got too much to live for,” The Doc smiled down at her, “That’s the way young Lady.”

Throughout that long day none of them left Adam’s bedside as he fought for his life. Joe was awake, sore and feverish but he insisted on having his bed moved so that he could see his brother through the open door. Will and Laura had to tend the twins and keep Peggy out of the way but they kept the others supplied with coffee. None of them felt much like food although they forced some down.

Hoss made one trip to the bunkhouse to find a peculiar silence there, only broken by the fall of cards. The men were nursing hangovers and colds but they all wanted to know how Adam was making out. Hoss rubbed his fist across his lips as he tried to ensure his voice was under control “Doc says it’ll go one way or the other by tomorrow morning.”

There was total silence for a minute and then José broke it “Adam will make out, he can’t survive that fall and then succumb to a few hours of exposure. He’s too tough.”

Hoss nodded “Yeah. Sure José.”

By late evening it seemed obvious which way it was going and soon. None of them thought of sleep, even Joe lay supported on his pillows watching his brother’s laboured breathing. For over an hour none of them spoke as they waited for the seeming inevitable end. Then the silence was broken as Ben suddenly got to his feet and Carole began to sob. Ben touched his son’s forehead and it was cool and wet with sweat. Carole looked up at him through her tears and Ben grinned “It’s broken we’ve done it, he’s over the hump.”

Little Joe sat up “Pa?”

Ben went over to him “Easy Joseph, the fever’s broken he’s going to be alright.” Joe was so weak that with the relief he couldn’t help the tears and Marie went to him and held him close, crying herself for her brother. Laura held Carole, who was on the verge of collapse and Ben said “He’ll sleep now, you go and do the same. Then you’ll be ready to help him when he wakes up.” Carole nodded and let Laura lead her out and get her to bed. Laura stayed with her as she cried herself to sleep releasing a little of the tension that she had been under.

Ben and Hoss wiped Adam down and got him into a fresh nightshirt and then wrapped him up warmly. Once Adam was settled back in bed Hoss insisted that his father get some sleep as well. Joe had already given in to his exhausted body. Ben stood looking down at his eldest son, Adam’s breathing was still harsh and painful but with the fever broken, he was sure of the outcome. With a prayer of thanks to the God, he’d thought had forgotten him he allowed himself to be bullied into bed. Hoss sat by his elder brother half dozing, just moving occasionally to feed his brother a few sips of water and tuck the bedclothes more closely round him. Three times he checked on Joe but his little brother hadn’t stirred, with his anxiety about Adam eased, Joe got the sleep he badly needed.

In the morning Hoss went down and told the men in the bunkhouse, there was a great cheer. The Cartwrights had always been very popular with their men, always willing to get their hands dirty and keeping the most dangerous jobs to themselves. Will and Laura took the twins and Peggy for a ride, as Peggy had been rather neglected and they only had another four days of their holiday. Adam slept all day, Ben and Hoss divided their time between him and Joe. Joe was still running a temperature and was sore and aching from head to toe. He was irritable and bored despite his efforts to hide it but he was glad of the company of his wife and his family. Ben went to bed straight after dinner so that he could sit with Adam over night.

It was shortly after dawn when Carole had rejoined him that Adam finally came back to the world of the living. His eyes flickered open and he lay still for a moment not really focusing, conscious only of the pain with each breath that he took. Then things drifted into focus and he saw Carole and his father. He whispered “Carole.”

Both of them had been miles away and only now realised that he had woken up, Carole took his hand and smiled down at him, “Easy darling. Don’t try and talk. Everything is fine.”

Adam lay still holding her hand and looking at her for several minutes, then suddenly his memory came back and he tried to sit up. Ben held him still “Everything is fine Adam.”

Adam muttered “Joe?”

Ben smiled at his son “Relax. Joe’s fast asleep next door he’ll be up and around in a couple of days.” He had no intention of telling Adam any details now; he was much too weak. He went downstairs for some broth, leaving Adam quite content to lie and watch his wife. Carole chatted quietly to him, assuring him that Little Joe was fine and that she and the baby were fit and healthy. Adam rested back against the pillows only half taking in what she said, trying to relax and not tense against the pain as he breathed knowing it only made matters worse.

Ten minutes later Ben was back. Between them Carole and Ben got Adam propped half sitting up against some pillows. It seemed to help him to breathe. Carole managed to get him to take a few spoonfuls of broth but still struggling for breath, he found eating very difficult and soon gave up. Ben gave him some of the medicine that Doc had left and then tucked him up where he was, half sitting, and told him to get some sleep, Doc was due later that day anyway and he would be able to advice them the best thing for Adam now.

It was still very early and Marie was fast asleep so Hoss looked in on his little brother once he had had his breakfast, Ben had told him that Adam had finally woken up and Hoss was still grinning with relief. Little Joe had been awake for some ten minutes and was sitting up feeling rather sorry for himself, his leg throbbing unmercifully. Hoss recognised the look on his brother’s face and quietly handed him coffee and then redressed his leg. It wasn’t until he’d finished and Joe was on his second cup of coffee that Hoss told Joe their brother had finally woken up. Joe was delighted and it cheered him up immeasurably, He hadn’t been thinking very straight for the last couple of days, between worry over his brother, lack of sleep, pain and fever and now for the first time he realised that Hoss had been in a fight.

Hoss had assumed, along with everyone else, that someone had told Joe about Pardoe but they had all been too preoccupied. Hoss sat down on the bed and told his brother exactly what had happened in town, As he finished with the inquest verdict of justifiable homicide, which José had reported, Joe put out his hand and the brothers shook. They needed no other words; they knew each other too well. Eventually Joe said, “So we can forget it all, once Adam’s back on his feet. I once told him I took a beating for him and Carole but I didn’t mean him to pay me back.”

Hoss shrugged “The original pretext was long forgotten Joe. It was jealousy and revenge because the pair of you humiliated a bully. It could have blown up at any time.”

Little Joe knew his brother was right, successful men always made enemies but he also knew it was going to be a long job to make Marie see it that way. Hoss went down to fetch Joe some breakfast and Little Joe lay back on the pillows thinking about Hoss. The fight had been inevitable once his brothers had been attacked and Joe knew how implacable his kind-hearted brother could be, when he saw the strong bullying the weak.

Doc was out mid-morning and he was delighted to hear that Adam had woken up, he had heard from one of the hands that Adam was on the mend, fever broken but as Adam was sleeping, he went to see Joe first. Joe’s injuries were healing well with no real trouble and he was gradually regaining his strength, Joe managed to persuade Doc that he was well enough to get up, provided he used the wheelchair for a few days to give his leg a chance to heal. Paul gave the permission begrudgingly but he knew Joe too well to withhold it. Joe wouldn’t do much harm and if he sent his temperature soaring Ben would pack him off to bed. If he said No Joe would just pester his father and Ben had been quite worried enough. Doc did give Joe a lecture and made him promise to take it easy, he had scared Marie quite enough, she was pregnant and he should be looking after her and his father had quite enough to worry about with his eldest son without his youngest acting the fool. Joe promised to be sensible but he hated being tied to bed. Doc left him to get dressed with his wife’s help and went into check on Adam.

Ban was in with Adam and Carole and as Paul came in he gently woke his son. Adam took a moment to come to and then as he recognised Paul he forced a grin. Doc smiled “Well you look a great deal better than you did a few days ago, how do you feel?”

Adam grimaced and Paul went over and began to check his various injuries, everything looked healthy and was beginning to heal and he smiled at Carole “Don’t look so worried he has escaped remarkably lightly, considering.”

Paul listened to Adam’s chest and then sat down on the bed “Hurts to breathe doesn’t it?”

Adam nodded “A bit”

“Can you show me where it hurts, the worst part?”

Adam did his best it was mainly on the right side and Doc smiled at him “That’s about what I expected. Take it easy, we can do something to ease it off a bit for you. It’ll take a few days for it to ease of its own accord but it will disappear entirely in time. I can guarantee that.”

Adam nodded, grateful for that confirmation. Doc had briefed Ben and he asked Carole to go downstairs and get coffee and scones for the Doc.

As soon as she went out Doc settled down and made sure Adam was paying attention “I wanted to speak to you alone Adam, I don’t want to frighten Carole unnecessarily. It will be unnecessary provided you are sensible. I didn't tell Carole or your family the odds of survival with double pneumonia while you were ill but I think you ought to know now. I have had some 600 cases of pneumonia and about 120 survived, including you once before. I’ve had about 90 cases of double pneumonia and had 3 survivors now.”

Ben sat down at that very grateful that he hadn’t known the odds two nights ago. Doc went on “You have got to accept a long convalescence Adam. Your body has had a long fight and its left it very weak, very vulnerable. With pneumonia there is always a risk of relapse and you wouldn’t be so lucky next time. One of my other two survivors rebelled against my orders and a month later he collapsed and died the following day, just because he overdid it.”

Adam muttered “What you trying to do, frighten me?”

Doc smiled “In a way, yes. Frighten you into using your common sense. You owe it to Carole not to frighten her anymore. It’s a good thing you have very sensible young ladies or you could well have had two miscarriages on your hands. You’re not going to like my orders Adam but you do need to take them very seriously.”

Adam frowned wondering just what Paul was suggesting but he wasn’t left in doubt very long.

Paul smiled at his friend “I want you to stay in bed for at least three weeks and I don’t want you going out of this room for a month. Here we can control the temperature and who is allowed in. Noone who is even slightly off colour is going to be allowed in. After a month we’ll see how fit you are.”

Adam closed his eyes, hating the idea of being stuck in here for a month and it showed on his face even if he was too weak to protest.

Paul gripped his arm “One more thing Adam, not only do I need you to do as I ask, but not to fret about it either. The more you fret the longer you’ll need to stay in bed.”

Adam gave a slight nod “I guess I’m lucky to be alive. I won’t fight you.”

Paul relaxed, he’d known that Adam would hate his suggestion but now that he had his agreement, he knew Adam wouldn’t go back on it, the reason he had pressurised the sick man. He got out some vapour rub and put some on Adam’s chest, before leaving two large jars with Ben. The vapour did seem to ease his breathing and Adam felt the warmth ease the pain slightly, it was still like a tight band round his chest but someone had eased it a notch or two. Then Doc gave him some medicine, which included a painkiller, and after a while it began to take effect. Ben tucked the blankets round him and told his son to get some sleep. Ben looked into Laura’s room and asked her to keep an eye on Adam while he joined Doc and Carole for coffee.

Paul warned Carole that it was going to be a long convalescence, they didn’t dare take any risks, as Adam was very vulnerable to infection at the moment. Carole just nodded; she had realised just how weak her husband was. Doc smiled “Adam has promised to be sensible and he’ll be fully fit long before I’d expect. I know Adam, basically he’s as strong as a horse.”

Carole managed to smile “I know he’ll be okay and I do realise that it will take time, don’t worry about me. I’m just so very thankful that he’s alive.”

Ben said “Paul doesn’t want him moved for a while, probably several weeks, It’ll be easier here anyway, more of us to try and keep him amused.”

“Of course but maybe this afternoon Hoss will take me home to collect some things.”

Ben nodded “He’ll be delighted and anytime you want to go over you just have to ask.”

Doc left soon after promising to come out again in three days or so, he warned Ben to keep the doses of medicine down and that Adam would sleep most of the time.

For the next three days Adam proved Doc a true prophet and slept most of the time, ever aware of the pain in his chest in the few hours he was awake. He was too weak to even think about what had happened, content in his family’s assurance that everything was okay. Whenever he woke up there was someone there to rub ointment on his chest, feed him and give him medicine. He only managed a few mouthfuls of broth each time, eating still so difficult with the effort to breathe but he was glad of water.

Nearly always it was Carole or Ben but occasionally it was Hoss and once he woke to see Joe bending over him. Adam grinned hazily at his brother “Pa said you were okay.”

Joe nodded “I’m fine you take it easy and we’ll soon have you up and around too.”

Adam accepted that “Sure” and let his brother feed him before sliding back into sleep.

Carole knew it was the best thing for him but the days seemed terribly long as she sat by Adam, sometimes sewing or reading but usually just staring into space. Adam was still terribly restless and breathing with difficulty. Half and hour awake with the effort of speaking even a few sentences and forcing down some food and his temperature would soar. Carole had a pretty good idea just how lucky he was to be alive, to survive the long fall and then double pneumonia but she couldn’t help wishing she had her normal strong husband back. She found her new family a godsend. Joe was still in the wheelchair and although sore and tending to run a temperature by evening, made light of it. Joe and Marie spent hours with Carole, quietly talking or playing cards by the fire in Adam’s room, ready to go to him as soon as he stirred. Hoss was invaluable, his great strength so useful in holding his brother without disturbing him, while the bed was remade. The quiet confidence of the three men kept Carole calm as she tended Adam.

Doc came back after three days as he’d said and he was pleased with Adam’s progress. He was gradually regaining some strength but Paul warned them that Adam would continue to sleep most of the time, probably for another week and it would be at least two or three more weeks before he would be able to get through a day without a temperature. It was what he expected and Paul made it very clear that it wasn’t anything to worry about.

In the event it was four days later that Adam woke up fairly early in the morning and for the first time felt well enough to take an interest in his surroundings. Joe was with him as both the girls were sleeping late. Joe had dispensed with the wheelchair although he was still taking it easy. Admitting to himself, albeit not to anyone else, that all he felt fit for was sitting around. Joe saw the difference in Adam’s reaction as his brother hitched himself up on the pillows, his eyes were brighter and he was taking in where he was. Adam grinned as he noticed for the first time the painting of Lake Tahoe, which Carole had brought over, from his study. Then he saw the coffee tray by Joe “Pour me some coffee will you?”

Joe nodded and poured out a cup, making sure that he didn’t overfill it, and he handed Adam the cup. Until now Adam had been fed and he was still weak enough for his left hand to shake as he raised the cup but he managed. He drank two cups and then said “I vaguely remember Will and Laura saying goodbye; did I imagine it or have they gone?”

Joe smiled “You didn’t imagine it, they had to go three days ago. They told us to give you their best when you were in a state to comprehend. How do you feel, you look a lot brighter this morning?”

Adam smiled “More human, I seem to have been drifting.” He caught his breath and then went on “How long have I been here?”

Joe looked down at him “Ten days.”

Adam was amazed, he had been thinking in terms of two or three days “Is Carole alright?”

Joe nodded “She’s fine, a bit anxious of course and earlier you scared us all for a couple of days, you were very ill. Now it’s only a case of getting your strength back.”

Adam nodded and as his breathing seemed to be getting harsh again, Joe said “That’s enough talking for now. You take it real easy and I’ll go and get you some food.”

Adam grinned, “I’m hungry and I don’t want broth.”

Joe grinned widely “That’s a good sign I’ll tell Pa and see what he allows.” A couple of minutes later Ben came in smiling broadly at the improvement he could see “Joe says you’re hungry. Do you fancy an omelette?”

Adam nodded and Ben called down to Joe. He sat by Adam while it was being cooked rearranging the pillows to support his son. Carole on her way down to breakfast heard Ben talking and came in She smiled delightedly at Adam and he beckoned her over and for the first time pulled her down to him and kissed her. Carole sat by him holding his hand, well pleased to see him more like himself. Joe brought up a large omelette and Adam, without any help, finished the lot fairly rapidly and the rested back, very content with a cup of coffee. Hoss and Marie joined them and Adam listened quietly as they chatted. He didn’t say much still painfully aware of each breath but at least much more himself.

After about an hour Ben shooed everyone out except Carole and promised Adam that he could have a steak for lunch if he would get some sleep for a couple of hours first. Adam’s eyelids were drooping and he was quite happy to obey. Downstairs everyone was very much more cheerful but as Joe said their real trouble were only just starting. In a few days when Adam was strong enough to stay awake he would need amusing if he were to be kept quiet. It was a familiar problem and when Adam was stuck in bed, Ben often bemoaned the speed with which he read books. It seemed to require a never ending stream and he had read vast numbers the previous summer and made inroads into his supply most of which he wouldn’t want to reread so soon. He had collected some back East and at Christmas, but Ben was with Joe, the supply would soon run out; especially as Doc was suggesting that they would need to keep Adam quiet for a couple of months. Still it wasn’t an immediate problem and for now they relaxed, so thankful that Adam was recovering.

Adam managed a good lunch and when he’d finished his family all joined him for awhile. Adam lay back relaxing, able to ignore the pain in his chest. He was thinking about what had happened and suddenly realised that he still didn’t know how they had been found. He turned slightly to look at his father “How did you find us that night?”

Ben smiled at him “Strictly we didn’t Little Joe came home and told us what had happened and where. Then all we had to do was to follow the trail to the cliff top and ten horses leave a broad trail.”

Adam considered that and frowned. He could remember all too clearly how his brother could barely stand as he took the beating and knew it was over three miles from home. For a while he didn’t speak but then he held out his hand to his brother and Joe gripped it. “How Joe? Three miles, you could hardly stand. Owe you my life.”

Joe smiled “I don’t remember much of it. I guess I got some of Pa’s stubbornness like you did.”

Adam knew only too well how badly Joe had been hurt and could imagine very clearly how his brother had felt on that long walk. For several minutes he studied his little brother, his imagination supplying the details that Joe would never supply.

Partly to break his train of thought and partly out of curiosity Carole asked “Do you feel up to telling us what happened darling? We know what happened until Joe passed out but after that it’s just what Pa and Hoss pieced togtether from the sign.”

Ben hadn’t intended to get Adam to talk yet, he didn’t think his son was fit enough, but now the question had been asked it had to be answered.

For a long moment Adam just stared into space and Hoss said, “It can wait Adam, no need to talk about it if you don’t want.”

Adam shook his head “No. I think I need to tell you. Then maybe I can forget.”

He was silent for a moment and his family moved closer, Hoss and Joe sat on the end of the bed, one each side. Ben and Carole one either side of him and Marie pulled a chair up next to Carole. Adam stared at his little brother and sighed deeply, catching his breath as it hurt his chest, but he squeezed Carole’s hand, he was okay. “You know Pardoe put a bullet in both our legs. I knew mine was just a minor flesh wound but I could see Joe’s was worse. The way he fell. Then Pardoe went for him. I had to watch. Couldn’t help.” The self-blame was obvious in his voice and Joe smiled “What he isn’t saying, is that two big thugs, both at least his size, were holding him to make sure he couldn’t interfere.”

Adam smiled faintly, his little brother still defending him, but he went on “I tried to hide how I felt. Not give them the satisfaction. Then a bone cracked and I had to get to Joe. I didn’t win. Couldn’t break free. I was almost glad when Joe fell unconscious.”

Adam was fighting for breath and Ben gave him a few sips of water while his son fought for control. Eventually Adam went on “Pardoe kicked him a couple of times but then left him. Someone asked if he should finish Joe off. Pardoe said no. Took Joe’s gun. Fired it twice. Put it back in holster. Told them to drag Joe into trees. Said be dead by morning.”

Adam fell quiet his breathing harsh as he remembered the terror and fury he felt as he was forced to leave his youngest brother hurt and unconscious in the snow, fearing neither of them would survive the night. Ben poured out a half cup of coffee and laced it well with brandy “Easy Adam drink this.”

Adam slowly sipped the coffee and relaxed and as he did so his breathing eased. He smiled at Marie, who had moved to lean against her husband needing him close, the reassurance that he was fine. “I should have known. Take more than that to kill my brother. Led Sport to the cliff top. Pardoe explained. Once snow hid all sign. They’d make sure, town believed, Joe and I fought. I shot him. Then, in fit of remorse, committed suicide. You couldn’t disprove.”

Hoss and Ben looked at each other, they could see only too clearly how difficult it would have been with Adam and Joe both dead, three bullet wounds and three shots fired, to prove someone else was involved. Even though to them and their close friends such a thing would have been impossible.

Adam rubbed his eyes “Not much more. We fought. I did some damage, so furious. Caught one, on my shoulder. Fell. Last thing I remember, Pardoe kicking me unconscious.” Adam fell silent and gripped Carole’s hand. She was trembling like a leaf.

Hoss grinned at his brother “You left your mark on Pardoe, Adam. It was obvious that he had been in a fight.”

Ben could see the anger in his eldest son’s eyes as he relived those hours and he said, “You don’t have to worry about Pardoe anymore, he’s dead.”

Adam looked at Hoss rather than his father, having sensed something in his voice. “How?”

Hoss told his brother what had happened in the saloon the following day. Adam listened in silence and as Hoss finished he smiled, “Thank you Hoss. Paid him back, more by publicly beating him, than by killing him. Glad you didn’t. Good job, he is dead, or who knows, where it would end.”

Hoss moved up and gripped his brother’s shoulder “It’s all over now. All you have to do is get better and we can forget it.”

Adam looked exhausted and Ben wanted him to get some sleep but Adam suddenly remembered how Pardoe had threatened to throw him over the cliff. He looked at his father “Where did you find me?”

Ben knew that he would have to tell his son the full story now despite Adam’s tiredness. And he told Adam exactly where he had been found and how Jess had brought him up the cliff. Adam lost what little colour he had as he realised how narrowly he had escaped death. Then he demanded to see Jess.

Ben said, “You shall but not now. When you’re a little stronger. Jess said that he owed you his life.”

Adam shrugged “It was nothing. Accident, on the way to Sacramento.”

“Jess thought it was more than that and he won’t accept anything but our thanks.”

“I must see him.”

Ben moved over to take away one pillow. “You shall tomorrow. For now you’re exhausted, get some rest.”

Adam knew his father was right and let Ben help him slip down a little into a more comfortably position. Hoss and Joe grinned down at him and Joe spoke for them both “Get some sleep, we’ll see you later.” Then they all left Carole alone with her husband. She held his hand and after a few minutes Adam slid into sleep.

Ben joined the others downstairs and was sitting staring into the fire, miles away. They left him alone for a while and then Joe said, “Cheer up Pa. Adam’s much better today. He’ll be fine soon.”

Ben looked up at his sons and managed a faint grin but then very sombre he said “I know that Joseph but it’s a good job Pardoe is dead or I’d kill him with my bare hands.”

Hoss clapped his father on the back “I know what you mean but forget it now. More important how are we gonna keep old Adam quiet in one room for three weeks?”

Joe laughed “That’s easy.”

His father and brother looked at him in surprise but Joe went on “Its impossible, so there’s no point in worrying.” Marie attacked him with a cushion at that and all sensible discussion went out the window.

The following morning Adam insisted that Ben fetch Jess up to see him. Ben didn’t really feel he was fit enough to see outsiders, but he knew Adam well enough to know when it was a waste of time arguing. So after Adam had eaten his breakfast, Ben helped him settle comfortably propped up on his pillows, then he asked Hoss to go and fetch Jess.

When Carole heard them coming she slipped next door to see Marie, knowing Adam wanted to talk to Jess alone.

Jess knew why Adam wanted to see him and he was thoroughly embarrassed as he followed Hoss up the stairs. He hadn’t been in the house before and all the books and the guns overawed him. Hoss opened the door and checked that his brother was alright and then signalled Jess to go in.

Jess walked slowly into the light large room, walls lined with yet more books and then his attention was taken by the sick man. Adam looked like death warmed up and his breathing was harsh and rough. Jess knew that his family had been scared for his life but that was a week ago and only now did he realise how ill the man had been. Still Adam was grinning “Come and sit down Jess. Hoss will bring up some coffee, in a few minutes, but I wanted to talk to you first.”

Jess went over, uneasy, not knowing what to say. Adam went on “I just wanted to say thanks. I’m surprised, you could manage my weight, all that way. I’m glad you did. Not least for stopping Pa. He’s getting too old, for rock climbing. But he’ll never admit it.”

Jess said “It’s nothing you took a bigger risk for me. I had men at the top to make sure I couldn’t fall and I was fit.”

Adam grinned, “Alright Jess I won’t argue with you. But we have both saved each other’s life, we ought to be friends. I want to make the same offer to you, that we have to José and a few other old friends. You don’t have to answer now. The offer stays open. If you want to take it up, in ten years, it will still be open.”

Adam took a sip of water and waited for his breathing to settle for a moment as Jess stared at him confused and then Adam went on “Anytime you want to set up on your own. We’ll help to get you started. If you want to set up round here. We can help with land. A few head of cattle, Whatever you want. I’ll help finance. I’m not offering charity. Just an interest free loan, to tide you over, the first few years.”

Jess was completely taken aback by the offer, he’d often dreamt of a place of his own but it seemed impossible, barring a big win at poker or on the stockmarket. Adam grinned, “Think about it Jess. The offer is open. Even if I’m not here. My family will honour it.”

Luckily as Jess didn’t know what to say Hoss arrived with coffee. Adam grinned at his brother, he had given Hoss strict instructions on how long he wanted alone and he had judged it to a nicety. The three men sat over coffee and Adam asked where Jess had learnt rock climbing. He told them and Hoss, who had been very impressed at the simple and effective method of lashing an injured man on his back, suggested that Jess teach all of them. It was something they could do with knowing. After a while Hoss considered his elder brother, “It’s time you got some rest Adam.”

Adam had been fighting to keep his eyes open and sleepily let Hoss ease him down the bed and tuck him up. He smiled up at Jess, “You can see, how bullied I am. Thanks again Jess.”

When Adam woke up again it was mid-afternoon. Marie was with him while Carole had a nap, Adam considered his sister-in-law, she was miles away with a quiet secret smile on her face, Eventually Adam said, “You look like the Mona Lisa.”

Marie turned to him with a start “I didn’t know you had woken up. I’ll call Pa.”

Adam took her hand “In a minute I’ve hardly seen you.”

Marie asked, “What’s the Mona Lisa?”

Adam smiled “A very famous painting, It’s in Paris, It’s a picture of a beautiful girl with a strange secretive half smile, It’s puzzled people over the ages. She looks as though she is seeing some paradise, hidden from the rest of us, You had that same sort of smile, when I woke up.”

Marie smiled down at him “Thanks largely to you I live in paradise, a dream world with Joe and I’m always scared I’ll wake up.”

Adam shook his head “It’s nothing to do with me, you gave my little brother the love he needed.”

Marie shrugged and then grinned at Adam “I was smiling because I can feel the baby moving. It’s a very odd feeling but it’s wonderful.”

Adam smiled “I always did say women were more beautiful when they were expecting than any other time, You and Carole prove it, so serene and happy, despite the idiotic tricks Joe and I pull.”

Marie laughed, “I don’t think it was intentional.”

Adam grimaced, “Very definitely not.”

“I’ll go and get your lunch you must be hungry.”

“Not really but I could do with some coffee.”

For the next ten days Adam gradually recovered. His breathing eased off a lot just becoming harsh when he was tired. His temperature still soared towards evening and he was sore and restless. All his family spent hours with him, playing chess or chequers, talking, reading, but the main burden fell on Carole. Adam wanted her with him all the time. The weather had closed in and the hands were capable of doing the few chores that could be done so the family had the time to spare. Despite their best efforts Adam became more bored and irritable as he regained his strength. He hated being tied to bed and knew it was another fortnight before the Doc would allow him to leave this one room, let alone go home to his own house. He found it irksome, although he only had to mention something he wanted and one of his brothers collected it for him within the hour. Joe was up and around, still limping slightly but claiming he was fully fit. He didn’t quite convince his family, who knew his leg was still rather painful, but it was nothing serious and they forbore to nag.

Adam tried to hide his irritability and succeeded to a certain extent, although they all knew him well enough to guess how he was feeling. Then one day he exploded. There was a pile of books on the other side of the room and he wanted one of them. The others were all at lunch and he couldn’t be bothered to wait so he got up, The other side of the room seemed much further than he’d ever known and he barely made it. Adam managed to find the book he wanted and lent against the wall to recover before trying to get back to bed. He was furious with his own weakness, even worse than he had thought. Unfortunately Carole had been feeling unwell for the last two days, with a rather upset stomach and she wasn’t hungry. She had hidden it from everyone except Marie, not wanting to worry Adam or be banned from his side. She headed up to join Adam while the others were still eating and opened the door to find him on his feet, but staggering as he reached for the bedpost for support.

Furious with her husband Carole wordlessly took the book and helped him, back into bed before telling him what she thought. “What do you think you’re playing at you fool. You promised Doc. Do you think I want my child to be fatherless before he’s even born?”

Adam tried to calm her down hearing the note of hysteria in her voice, but he was only making things worse and after all his efforts his head was throbbing and the room tending to go round. In the end he shut his eyes and said, “For God’s sake, please leave me alone.”

Carole silenced by that stood looking down at him for a moment, she had been so frightened but she knew he wasn’t well enough to quarrel and suddenly she burst into tears and ran out.

The whole family had heard the row and Joe and Marie headed upstairs but had left husband and wife alone. Marie had told her husband that Carole had been under the weather for a couple of days, although on the mend. When Carole ran out Marie went to her and Joe went into his brother.

Adam was very drawn and barely noticed his brother. Joe moved over and sat on the bed. “Take it easy Adam. She’ll feel better for a cry, she’s been under quite a strain.”

“I didn’t mean to make her cry. She was right to yell at me. I shouldn’t have got up, barely made the table. I didn’t mean to worry her, thought you were all at lunch. Wasn’t really yelling at her, more my own weakness.”

Joe gripped his brother’s shoulder “Come on calm down. Try and relax brother.” He was quite worried at Adam’s strained breathing but gradually he felt his brother relax slightly and he risked leaving him for a moment and poured him a brandy. He slowly fed it to Adam and ten minutes later Adam was breathing more easily. Joe had just sat by him, not talking but now he told Adam what Marie had passed on.

Adam looked up “I should have known. Why didn’t she tell me?”

“For the same reason you don’t tell her about every ache and pain. She didn’t want to worry you. I shouldn’t worry women are good at hiding things and from what Marie said, it isn’t serious and is clearing up.”

Adam was silent for a long moment and then he sighed, “Its me Joe, I’ve tried to fight it but I can’t. I’m as irritable as a bear with a sore head. I hate being tied to bed even though I know I’m not up to going anywhere. And the prospect of being stuck in here for another two weeks and then God knows how long before Doc will let me go home and I feel like exploding.” Adam buried his face in his hands and Joe couldn’t quite hide his grin “Well, why don’t you if you feel like it? We all know how you feel. We are here to be shouted at, if that’s what you want.”

Adam had to grin at his brother “I ought to give up trying to fool you!”

Joe shrugged “We’ve all been through it Adam. It’ll pass but I know how infuriating it is at the time.”

“Will you find Carole for me?”

“Sure. I’ll just get you some coffee first, you look as though you need it and I’d bet Carole could do with some.”

In fact Carole brought the coffee in a few minutes later. She’d had a good cry on Marie’s shoulder and felt better for it. Adam held his arms out and she came into them and they both said sorry simultaneously. Then just held each other close not talking. Ten minutes later they were ready for coffee feeling rather better.

Little Joe had joined Marie, who smiled at him “She’s alright. I think she needed a cry. How’s Adam?”

Joe shrugged “Cross with himself for upsetting Carole and bored and irritable with his own weakness. We’d better get down and let Pa and Hoss know they are okay.” They went down and Joe reassured his father that Adam was okay. Joe was very quiet during the afternoon and after dinner announced his intention of going into town. He had already told Marie what he wanted to do and she concurred. Hoss studied his little brother, not sure whether company would be welcome or not. Joe read the expression on his face and grinned, “Be glad of some company Hoss, if you fancy a ride.”

Hoss laughed “Sure Little brother and don’t tell me that it’s my turn to buy.”

Joe considered him “Well now that you come to mention it...” Hoss cuffed him and went upstairs for his coat.

It wasn’t until they were on the way to town that Joe told his brother the real reason for going to town. He told Hoss how dispirited and fed up Adam had been that afternoon. Joe had tried to persuade his father to at least arrange a bath for Adam. After two and a half weeks in bed he was sure that would make Adam feel better but Ben wouldn’t even consider it. Joe looked at his brother “I want to have a word with Paul. I’m sure he’s told Pa, and probably Adam, something that he hasn’t told us. I know Adam is still very weak and all that but you could carry him downstairs for a change of scenery or at least let him sit by the fire instead of being stuck in bed. But neither Pa or Adam has suggested it. I’m sure there’s something going on; big brother is usually all too eager to get up.”

Joe sat quietly expecting Hoss to laugh at him but for a minute there was no reaction. Then Hoss said, “I know what you mean. Pa’s reaction has been puzzling me a mite. I tried to convince myself I was imagining things.”

Joe gave a sigh of relief that Hoss wasn’t laughing and went on “I thought then we might have a word with Dan, I vaguely remember him saying something about a new bookshop at Christmas. What Adam needs at the moment is a stock of new books, preferably some of those heavy tomes he enjoys, You know the sort of thing when he sits all evening reading a few pages covered with mathematics and snorting his disagreement every so often,”

Hoss laughed “I know what you mean Joe and it sure does keep him quiet. If’n you ignore the grunts!”

The brothers made their first stop at the Doc’s where they hit the jackpot. Dan was there playing chess. Paul looked anxiously at the brothers as he opened the door “Is there anything wrong?”

Hoss grinned, “Nope we just wanted a word, Adam’s okay just weak and bored.”

Dan said “I’ll go ad make coffee, let you talk. I think I’m stuck anyway.”

Joe looked at the board “If you’re black you’re in the sort of mess I always end up in. You might as well surrender.” Dan raised his fist at Joe and then disappeared. Paul looked at the brothers “Sit down. How’s the leg Joe I see you’re still limping?”

Joe shrugged “Just a bit sore. I’ve gotten into the habit of favouring it, have to break myself of it. It’s Adam we want to talk about. He and Pa are acting strange. I know he’s still as weak as a kitten and I know how close we came to losing him, but normally he’d at least have Hoss carry him downstairs for a change, He’s bored stiff but he don’t even suggest it. What’s wrong Doc? What have you told him and Pa that we don’t know?”

Paul lent back in his chair and considered the brothers “You don’t miss a thing do you? Don’t look so worried your brother is going to be as fit as he ever was, but it is going to take time, I did warn them he was going to have to accept a long convalescence. I admit I piled it on a bit thick to frighten Adam into not taking any risks but the basic facts speak for themselves.” He told the brothers his record with pneumonia finishing up; the real trouble with pneumonia is that even when you survive the initial infection, you are so weakened you are prey to any infection, or to the original one flaring up again. He won’t survive another infection in his current state. That’s why I ordered him to stay in bed for at least another week or so and not to leave the room for the first month, At least there we can control conditions and minimise the risks of him catching anything.”

Hoss and Joe looked at each other they had known it was serious, but not until now had they realised just how serious. It certainly explained their father’s attitude. For a minute neither of them spoke and then Joe asked, “He will be okay?”

Doc grinned, “I’m not taking any chances. There’s Carole and the baby to consider now; but your brother is as strong as a horse. Little though it may seem like it to him, he’s recovering remarkably fast. A thing like this can mean a year’s convalescence but from the way he’s going on, he’ll be up and around in three or four weeks and free to go out maybe four weeks after that. He will have to make sure he keeps warm and avoids over exertion to begin with, but I’d guess in three months time he can carry on as normal and forget it ever happened. Despite your father’s fears it won’t even make him more vulnerable in the future, although I admit a little extra care, such as changing out of wet clothes would be sensible. That is provided he is sensible and doesn’t overdo things for the next three weeks or so.”

Hoss and Joe looked at each other, relieved to a certain extent then Hoss asked, “He’s bored and fretting now. Can he do himself any real harm?”

The Doc shrugged “I doubt it, provided it doesn’t make him do anything silly. It may put his recovery back slightly. The only problem will be a miserable time for you all, especially Adam, over the next few weeks.”

They fell silent for a minute and then Dan yelled “You ready for coffee?” Doc went out and held the door open for Dan, before going to fetch some brandy. Dan looked at them “How is everybody?”

Hoss grinned “Okay but Adam’s bored. We wanted to have a word with you.”

Joe came over “At Christmas I remember you saying something about a new bookshop. Where was it?”

“I know the one you mean, Joe but its in Sacramento and all the passes are closed.”

Hoss and Joe looked at each other and Hoss asked, “What do you know about the shop?”

“From the advert it sounded very good. I know Adam was intending going in when he had time. They advertised that new Darwin book that came out last year, The Descent of Man, and two of his earlier ones. They are banned back east but not in California or Nevada!”

Joe grinned “That’s exactly what we need to keep him quiet.”

Dan frowned, “It will take you over a fortnight to get there and back the stage is going way south.”

Joe laughed “Nonsense Cochise needs the exercise. I can be back in four days,”

“Don’t be stupid Joe you can’t force the pass at this time of the year.” Joe looked mulish and Dan appealed to Hoss “Talk some sense into him.”

Hoss shrugged “I know what’ll happen I’ll end up carrying him, the books and probably Cochise! Still as he said it shouldn’t take us more’n four days.” Joe grinned very grateful for his big brother’s support and Dan tried to enlist Doc. Paul told them that they were mad but stopped Dan nagging at them, the only person who could change their minds was Ben, so they might as well leave it to him. They stayed chatting for a while and then the brothers headed home.

On the way Joe turned to his brother “You don’t have to come with me Hoss. It was my idea.”

Hoss shrugged “For once I think you had a good one. I know yer ideas usually end with me in trouble but this time I reck’n it’s worth the risk. It’s just what Adam needs and Doc said it was real important to keep him quiet now. Anyways you know Pa won’t let you go alone. Be stupid to risk it. I’ll come along, after all Adam’s my brother too.”

When they reached home only Marie was downstairs quietly playing her piano. Joe went to his wife and Hoss excused himself to get a snack. Marie looked up “Pa is helping Carole get Adam settled for the night.”

Joe got coffee and then sat down by the fire and pulled Marie down on his lap. He explained what they had found out in town and what he wanted to do to help. Marie knew the risks in the mountains but she was confident that Joe and Hoss wouldn’t make the attempt unless they were confident they could make it. They had been born and bred in the area, particularly Joe, and noone knew the mountains better. Marie had seen how bored Adam was and knew from Carole how worried she was. Very fond of them both Marie gave Joe her whole-hearted support. Joe held her very tight and kissed her; grateful for the freedom she gave him.

Ben came down stairs just as his big son brought a plateful through from the kitchen. As he met his father’s gaze Hoss looked down and it was all too obvious to Ben that his big son was up to something, He turned to look at his youngest son and seeing the absolute innocence on Joe’s face, Ben collapsed into his chair and demanded coffee. He looked from one son to the other and went on “I’ve a feeling you’d better put a large slug of brandy in it, I think I’m going to need it.”

Hoss and Joe looked at each other and Hoss said, “I wonder what he’s on about?”

Joe shrugged “You hear stories of senile decay.”

Ben just accepted his coffee “You know perfectly well what I am on about, as you put it. Little Joe has had some bright idea, doubtless harebrained, and has persuaded you to go along with it Hoss, as usual. You are both hoping that the other one will tell me about it.” Joe and Hoss just laughed but Marie sprung to her husband’s defence “It’s a good idea Pa. Really it is.”

Ben smiled at her “You haven’t yet had as much experience of Joe’s ideas as we have. They nearly all sound good to begin with. The pitfalls usually appear later, I must admit that Joseph has the knack of avoiding them, someone else ends up in trouble, usually Hoss.”

Joe wasn’t going to argue, he just grinned and started to explain, “We went to see Doc in town. He told us what he’d told you and Adam. I thought you’d both been acting odd.”

Little Joe hadn’t seen Carole coming down the stairs and her voice came as a shock, as she icily demanded, “Just what has the Doctor told all of you and not bothered to tell his wife?”

Joe looked at his father in apology, but Ben shrugged the harm was done. He hadn’t wanted to worry Carole any more than she already was, but now she had to be told. He briefly told her what Doc had said and was surprised how calmly Carole took it. As he fell silent she smiled “He might as well have told me, I knew anyway. Our doctor back home told us the odds when my cousin had pneumonia, less than one in five and virtually no chance if it affected both lungs. She died but only her left lung was affected.” Hoss stared at her “You knew the odds when Adam was so ill?”

Carole nodded, Hoss shook his head in utter amazement “You were so calm, all through. You were the surest of the lot of us that he’d be found alive and stay that way.”

Carole shrugged “Adam isn’t a statistic. He’s strong and he has too much to live for, I just never felt in my heart that he could die."

They were all silenced for a minute and then Ben said, “I don’t know why we men try and protect the women. I think mentally at least they are much the tougher sex.”

Hoss shrugged “Don’t know about that Pa. We got two exceptional women in the family, wouldn’t bet on ‘em being typical.”

Carole and Marie both coloured at that but Hoss got hearty agreement from his brother. Ben grinned, “I’m not arguing but I still want to hear just what you two are plotting.”

Joe explained about the new bookshop and the three books they were sure of getting, plus whatever new ones they could find to keep Adam quiet. He looked questioningly at Carole and she smiled “It sounds like a very good idea Joe, exactly what he needs, something to engage his mind.”

Ben looked suspiciously at his two sons “I agree with Carole but where’s the hitch, you are both trying to look too innocent.”

Joe looked appealingly at Hoss and with a shrug Hoss said, “There’s just one point Joe didn’t mention. The bookshop is in Sacramento.”

Ben sat back as though his point was proved “I knew you two were up to something. The passes have been blocked for the last month and I’m sure you aren’t intending taking the long road south.”

Carole realised the brothers were intending to force the pass and came to her feet in horror “No you can’t, Adam wouldn’t want you taking risks, just to stop him being bored.”

Joe went over and put his arm round her “No risk Carole. We need the exercise, just look at Hoss lazing there. It’ll do him good. Anyway its not just to stop Adam getting bored, its to stop him driving us all to distraction. Stop you and Pa worrying yourselves sick, in case he does something foolish out of sheer boredom. He was never a good patient, moment he’s strong enough to move he always tries to ignore all his aches and pains.”

Carole wasn’t convinced and turned to Ben “You stop them.”

Ben smiled “Take it easy Carole. They are grown men and they know what they are doing.”

Joe and Hoss looked at each other in amazement and Joe said, “We won’t let you forget that Pa. In front of witnesses too.”

Ben laughed “You’re still not too old to go over my knee young man! But Carole they do know the mountains and the pass to Sacramento. I wouldn’t want either of them to go alone, but together they will be fine and I think it is important enough to warrant a trip. It’ll ease the pressure of all of us. Adam’s fretting now and in a few days when he’s stronger he’ll be even worse. It will hinder his recovery, whereas a few new books especially things to hold his interest, like the Descent of Man, could make all the difference.

Joe and Hoss were surprised to get so much support from their father without argument. It brought forcibly home to them just how worried he still was about his eldest son. Carole tried once more, telling Joe that it wasn’t fair on Marie, worrying her by making such a trip but she got no support from Marie. Marie just said, "I think it’s a good idea and anyway I wouldn’t dare doubt Joe’s prowess in the mountains, he might hit me.” In fact Joe hugged her delightedly while the others laughed and Carole gave up the argument.

They came back to it briefly later and decided not to tell Adam where his brothers had gone or why. He would only worry, as Joe said, he sometimes doubted whether Adam believed him capable of getting into town and back unescorted. Ben laughed but had to admit that although Adam was a lot better now, he still had a tendency to think of his brothers, especially Joe, as not quite grown up. Then they turned in, as the brothers wanted to be off early, intending to be well on their way by dawn. They didn’t need any light on the first part of the road, which they knew so well.

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