The Same Coin
By
EPM
"Stop
it Joe. Animals, people---everything living eventually dies. That's the way
nature meant it." Adam Cartwright was trying to make the statement sound
as matter of fact as he could. His youngest brother was already tied up in emotional
knots and he didn't want to push him any further.
"
I always thought you kept alot inside Adam", Joe seethed "but I was
wrong. There isn't anything inside, is there?
Just a cold, empty space."
The
fury in Joe's green eyes made them burn bright. "I don't know how you
could ever be a part of this family." The youngest Cartwright stared
defiantly at his oldest brother for a moment, turned and walked out of the
barn.
Joe's
words made Adam cringe. It wouldn't do any good to pretend to himself that they
didn't hurt. That's what he really thinks of me. I never wanted it to be this
way ----.
**********
Joe
had worked long and hard with the new breeding stallion. He had bought the
magnificent creature on a ranch just outside of
Joe
was devastated by the untimely death of the horse. Neither his father nor his
brothers could console him or convince him that he could pick up the pieces and
move ahead with another stallion. As the days passed, Ben became concerned by
Joe's emotional swings between sadness and anger. Even Hoss, who was always
close to his younger brother, couldn't seem to get though to him. And so Adam,
as the oldest, felt it was his responsibility to make the situation right.
Joe
had always been emotional and truth be told, Adam had found that to be a part
of his little brother's charm. When this boy was happy everyone about him
couldn't help but be happy also. And even when he was angry, they all knew it
would blow through as quickly as it came.
But this time he was hurting himself with his emotions and more
importantly, their father. He had approached Joe in the barn, trying one more
time to reason with him. Adam kept his tone neutral, hoping not to set his
brother off. But as the conversation continued, Adam met with little success
and finally in his own frustration, he had managed to lose his temper.
Joe
stormed into the house, slamming the door after him. He was hoping that his
older brother had followed him. Hoss was coming in from the kitchen when Joe
entered. "What's wrong with you boy? Slamming the door like that. You
better be glad Pa ain't home." The noise had caught Hoss by surprise.
"How
the hell did he get into this family anyway. I don't believe he's a Cartwright.
Maybe he's just some bastard child Pa felt sorry for." Joe's temper had
not diminished.
"Joe,
you better not be talking about Adam. Have you lost your mind?" Hoss
stormed. He started toward his brother with a menacing look on his face.
"Yeah,
well I am and I told him the same thing." Joe stood as tall as he could. He
wanted Hoss to know that for all his strength and power, he wasn't afraid of
him.
Hoss
stopped short. " You said those things to Adam?" Incredulous, he
hesitated. He couldn't believe his younger brother would do that, even in a fit
of temper. " I don't know who you're trying to hurt Joe but I do know
you'll rip this family apart with talk like that." Hoss walked out the
door, leaving Joe standing alone in the middle of the room.
***********
Hoss
took a deep breath before he entered the barn. He had no idea what to say or
how to approach his older brother. He heard Adam murmuring soft, gentle words
in a rhythmic cadence. When he looked over, Hoss saw that he was speaking to
his horse as he brushed him with long, light strokes. It was as if he were comforting
himself with the soothing words.
Hoss
approached quietly. Before he could speak, Adam said, "there's nothing to
say. Don't try." His voice held no anger. He just seemed to be
resigned
to the fact that he had somehow failed to help Joe and in doing so, unleashed
the younger man's real feelings.
"He
had no right to say them things to you Adam. I don't care how upset he is. How
can he forget everything you've been to him---and all over a horse."
Hoss
was becoming mad all over again.
"You
know it's more than the death of that horse. This program means everything to
him. He's got it all wrapped up in his need to prove himself--to Pa, to you and
especially to me. Joe's always felt he needed to earn his place on the ranch
and this was his way to do that." Adam stopped and turned back to Sport.
He picked up the brush and started working again.
Hoss'
voice was quiet. "That don't make it right Adam."
"I
know Hoss but it does make it a little easier to understand." They both
turned toward the door when they heard a horse enter the yard.
"Hoss---promise
me you won't say anything about this to
"Please."
"Ok
Adam, but I plan on having a few words with Joe," Hoss said. He was not
about to give in on that.
"Hello
boys. You two look pretty serious. Everything alright?" Ben led Buck to
his stall.
"Everything's
fine Pa," Adam answered, a little too quickly. "How was your trip to
town?"
If
Ben noticed, he gave no indication. "Oh meetings, you know. Some people
just talk to hear themselves. To tell you the truth, I almost fell asleep
once." Ben smiled. After looking around he said" so where's that
brother of yours?"
"He's
in the house." Hoss' tone was sharp and his words short. Adam gave him a
warning look.
"He
still upset because of the horse, son? " Ben had been hoping to see some
improvement in Joe's moods.
"Yeah---I
guess he is Pa. Think I'll go have a little talk with him." Hoss looked at
Adam, trying to read his face but whatever Adam was thinking remained within
him.
**********
Hoss
entered the house and went straight up the stairs. He walked into Joe's room
without knocking. "Hey Hoss---didn't hear you come in." Joe's temper
had cooled but he didn't bargain on his middle brother losing his.
"Joe,
I've watched you and Adam butt heads for years but I never heard either one of
you say something hateful to the other. That is until today. Do you have any
idea how much you hurt him?" Hoss stopped but only for a moment. "And
he's out there defending you to me and asking me not to tell
"Don't
ask me to feel bad Hoss---I don't. The man's ice inside. I don't know why he's
like that but he is and I'm the only one who'll say it." Joe got up and
walked across the room. He put his hand on Hoss' shoulder. "I'm sorry you
got into the middle of this."
Hoss
moved away, shrugging off his brother's hand. "Yeah, me too Joe. But you
couldn't be more wrong. You just tore the heart out of someone who would do
anything for you. Maybe someday you'll see that." Hoss left Joe's room and
quietly closed the door.
**********
Dinner
that night was a quiet affair even though all three boys made a valiant attempt
at keeping the conversation going. The sounds of dishes bumping against each
other and the scraping of plates were more prevalent than words. Ben eyed all
of his sons in turn. There is something definitely going on with these three,
he thought, but they aren't about to tell me.
The
quiet was interrupted by a harsh, congested sounding cough from Ben. Three
faces turned his way, all with concerned looks. "Now boys, it's nothing.
Just a little cold." Hop Sing had heard Ben's cough and set out to prepare
the herbs that he knew would be needed later.
Glancing
sideways, Adam studies his father, looking for any other signs that he might be
ill. His face was a little pale. Maybe
his eyes seemed tired. Adam turned his attention back to his dinner. I don't
need to look for what's not there he thought. But he stole a second look
anyway.
Both
Hoss and Joe were finished and excused themselves. Hoss left for the barn and
Joe went to his room. Ben leaned back in his chair and said, "anything you
want to tell me Adam?" His voice was quiet and invited a response.
"No---no,
nothing really interesting. You know----." How did this man succeed in
making him feel like a bumbling schoolboy?
Ben
gave his oldest a half smile and said, "no, not really. Why don't you tell
me?"
"Joe
and I had a small argument this afternoon but it isn't anything to worry
about." He returned his father's smile and stood up. "You always said
we were both too stubborn for our own good."
"You
sure there isn't more to it son? It's not often I see Hoss and Joe split up
after dinner." Ben stood and walked to his favorite red chair. He sat down
heavily.
"Nothing
that won't pass." Adam lost his smile and looked straight at his father.
"You need to let this one go,
Ben
wanted to question him further but pushing Adam was impossible. If he refused
to say anymore there was no way Ben could change his mind. "Ok son, I
trust you. I know you can take care of yourself and your brothers."
Adam
wanted desperately to tell his father that he wasn't doing a very good job with
the "brother part" of that statement but his thoughts were
interrupted by another long, harsh fit of coughing from Ben. Adam stood and
went to his father's side. "Anything you want to tell me Pa?" His
face couldn't hide the mischief there.
The
coughing ended and Ben gave Adam an exasperated look. "Why don't you get
your tired, old father a glass of brandy? And stop being a smart aleck!"
he reached out to cuff his oldest but missed his target. Adam returned with two
glasses. He handed one to his father and slowly sipped the other.
"Pa,
you do look a bit drained. Why not make it an early night. I'll make sure
everything is taken care of down here." Adam placed his hand on his
father's shoulder.
Ben
put his hand over his son's. "I think I'll take you up on that. Guess I'm
a little more weary than I thought. Good night son." He smiled and headed
for the stairs. Adam watched his father as he climbed to the second floor.
There was something different about his gait. He walked as if every step caused
him pain. His eyes were still focused on the stairs when Hoss came in.
"What'cha
look'in at?" asked Hoss. Adam had not heard him come in and jumped at the
sound of his voice.
"I'm
not sure. I don't like the way Pa looks and he acts as if he hurts all over.
Hop Sing will take a look at him, if he isn't feeling better in the
morning." Adam had wandered back to the hearth and his unfinished glass of
brandy.
"You
seen Joe since supper?" Hoss asked. He joined Adam by the fireplace.
Adam
swirled the golden brown liquid around the sides of the glass and replied
quietly, "No." He took a drink and repeated, "No, he never came
back down. Probably fell asleep."
Hoss
looked his at brother and shook his head. He could see the sadness in his eyes.
"Well, guess I'll go up too. See ya in the morning."
"Hoss---check
on Joe, will you. See that he's ok?" asked Adam.
Hoss
started to protest but saw the appeal in his older brother's eyes. "Ok
Adam, I'll see that he's alright."
**********
Something
had brought Adam out of a deep sleep but until his mind cleared, he had no idea
what. There it is again, he thought.
Sounds like somebody coughing, can't catch their breath------Pa! The
realization hit hard. He was up and out the door before his robe completely
covered him. He ran down the hall to his father's room. Seeing a light coming
from beneath the closed door, he did not stop to knock.
What
Adam saw when he entered frightened the normally unflappable young man. Ben was
sitting on the side of the bed with a pillow clutched to his chest. His cough
was even more congested and harsh than earlier in the evening. And he was
having trouble catching his breath. His face was red and his eyes watered.
Finally, the coughing subsided and his breathing became more regular. Adam
moved to his side.
Ben
tried to smile away the worry on his eldest son's face but had little success.
"I'm going to get Hop Sing, Pa than I'm going for the doctor." He
handed his father a glass of water than turned toward the door. As he reached
for the knob, the door opened and Hop Sing walked in. He carried with him a hot
brick for Ben's feet and a steaming cup of herbal tea to sooth his cough.
Hop
Sing busied himself getting Ben settled in. "I'll be back as soon as I
can" Adam said. He started to walk out.
"Adam----wait,
son" Ben called. "I'm alright, really. There's no need to ride off in
the middle of the night to get the doctor. I promise, if I don't feel better in
the morning, you can go get Paul."
Adam
was skeptical but his father insisted. He went back to his room to get dressed,
thinking he would sit up with Ben for awhile, just to make sure he was ok. Both
Hoss and Joe were with their father when he returned. "Yes boys, I'll be
fine" he heard his father say. "Now go back to bed."
Joe
walked past his oldest brother without looking at him. Adam sighed and shook
his head. He didn't have time to think about Joe right now. He was
concentrating on his father. Hoss stopped him. You think he's ok Adam?"
"I
don't really know ", he replied " but I'll sit with him for the rest
of the night." Adam put his hand on Hoss' shoulder. "I'll call you if
I need you, promise." He smiled.
Hoss
left and Adam pulled a chair up next to his father's bed. Ben opened his eyes.
"I thought you went back to bed. You don't have to sit with me." His
voice seemed strained and weak.
"Pa,
where would you be if I were sick?" Adam asked.
Ben
smiled. "Same place as you; different room." He closed his eyes once
again and fell asleep.
Adam
dozed off and on for the rest of the night. He remembered Hop Sing coming to
check on his father several times. He was grateful for the housekeeper's
watchful eye. He was awakened fully by another series of barking coughs. He
rose and went to his father's side. Ben' face was flushed and his brow was
covered with sweat. Adam placed the back of his hand on his father's cheek. The
fever was evident.
Once
again, Hop Sing appeared. He brought with him fresh, cold water, cloth and a
newly warmed brick. He looked at Ben and than at Adam. "You get Docta Paul
now---fatha worse." Adam knew that this was a statement, not a question
and he went to do as he was told.
After
he sent one of the hands for Dr. Martin, he made his way back upstairs and into
the hall outside his father's room. Joe
was just opening his door. "I just sent Charlie for the doctor," Adam
said to him.
"Why
didn't you do that last night?" Joe's reply was filled with hostility.
Adam could hear the fear through the anger in his younger brother's voice.
"
Joe, he'll be alright," Adam said gently, trying to reassure him.
"You
don't know that. You just think you know everything." Joe's voice started
to rise and he balled his hands into two fists.
"Look
Joe, now's not the time for this. Just keep a rein on that temper of
yours." Adam felt his own anger coming to the top.
"What
wrong with boys? Fight outside sick fatha's door? Shame on both sons." Hop
Sing had come into the hall to chastise both combatants. "If you fight, go
away." He returned to Ben's room and shut the door.
Both
of them hung their heads. Hoss was just coming out of his room and he joined
his siblings. They looked at each other and with no words, started toward their
father's bedroom.
**********
It
had been a long wait filled with quiet whispers between bouts of harsh, barking
coughs. The boys took turns trying to cool down their fever-ravaged father. Ben
had opened his eyes and when offered, had taken some water. Dr. Martin had
finally arrived and asked all but Hop Sing to leave while he examined his
patient. Now all three of the Cartwright sons descended to the great room,
waiting again.
Hoss
joined Adam on the hearth while Joe paced the floor. "Just how long does
it take to figure out what's wrong with a man?' Joe asked no one inparticular.
When he received no answer from either brother, he resumed his pacing.
Dr.
Martin came down the stairs and stood in front of Adam and Hoss. Joe watched
from across the room. "Your father has influenza boys. This isn't the
first case I've seen. It's spreading rapidly throughout
In a quiet, steady voice, Adam asked,
"What can we expect, Paul?"
The
doctor's face was lined with the fatigue that came with his profession. He ran
his hand through his hair before he answered. "Well, this disease preys on
the young, the old and those who are already sick. Your father doesn't really
fit into any of those categories. The disease itself is self-limiting and not
dangerous as long as he's kept warm and dry. And he rests. It's the secondary
infection that's the killer, pneumonia." The doctor sat down in Ben's red
chair. "He will need constant care for the next few days.
The
thing with influenza is that we know it is highly contagious. Who has spent the
most time with him?" Paul asked.
"I
guess that would be Adam and Hop Sing", Hoss answered. "Joe and I was
in there with him but not near as much as those two."
The
doctor looked at Adam. " By rights, it should be you two who look after
him than. If you're already exposed than you might as well keep doing what
you've been doing. Hoss, Joe--- you two need stay away until your father starts
to feel better."
"Alright
Paul--we'll do as you ask," Adam said. "Can we get you some coffee or
breakfast before you go?"
"I
can't Adam, but thanks. I need to get back to town." Paul picked up his
bag and started for the door. "Send somebody if you need me but I think
he'll be fine."
Hoss
said, "You go ahead and do what you got to Adam. Me and Joe will take care
of the ranch." His tone was strong and reassuring.
"Thanks
brother. Hop Sing and I will take care of Pa. Come get me if you need
anything." Adam started up the stairs.
"We
can run this ranch without you Adam. Just take care of Pa," Joe said in a
hard, cold voice. He picked up his gear and left.
Adam
halted, halfway up the stairs. His hand gripped the banister. He turned around
and looked at his middle brother. "He's all yours", Adam said. His
voice was weary and no smile crossed his lips.
**********
For
the next several days, Adam and Hop Sing took turns seeing to Ben's needs. It
had been hard for him to rest with the almost ceaseless coughing and shaking
chills from the fever. But by the end of that time, Ben started to recover.
"Why don't you go get some sleep Hop Sing. You look worse than Pa
does," Adam said.
"Oldest
son need sleep too. Worry about fatha, worry about ranch and brothers---too
much worry." Hop Sing tucked the new bedding in tight around his patient.
"I'll
rest. I promise. Hoss and Joe will be home soon and Dr. Martin said they could
come in to visit now." Adam looked at his sleeping father. Hop Sing
finally gave in and retired to his room.
Adam
leaned back in his chair, sighing deeply. The past week had been a nightmare.
The worry and tension of his father's illness was catching up with him, along
with his concern over the welfare of the ranch. He and Joe had called an uneasy
truce, helped by the fact that they didn't see much of each other. I'll just
close my eyes for a minute he thought.
Sometime
later, Ben awoke. "Adam----son, can you hear me?" Ben's voice was
stronger now. He looked at his sleeping son and smiled. They'd been taking care
for each other for along time now. Traveling together across the country had
made them close. And why not, he thought, they only had each other until Hoss'
mother came along and changed both their lives.
Adam
stirred and opened his eyes. "Hi Pa. Sorry I fell asleep. I'm not doing my
job very well, am I?" He stretched his long frame and yawned.
"What
you need young man is some sleep. I'm much better now. Why don't you go take a
nap?" Ben said.
"I
will Pa--just as soon as Hoss and Joe get home. Paul says they can come and
visit now." No sooner than the words had left his mouth, his younger
"big" brother walked in.
"Hi
Pa---how ya feeling? You sure do look better." Hoss' smile lit up the
room.
"Did
I look that bad, son?" Ben's lips curved into a teasing smile.
Hoss'
smile disappeared. "I didn't mean you looked really bad before
I---"
"It's
ok son. I'm just teasing you." Ben sat up further in bed. Adam got up and
placed another pillow behind his back. "Hoss---tell your big brother to go
lie down before he falls down."
"Yeah
Adam, go ahead. I'll stay with Pa" Hoss said.
"No
argument from me. My bed should feel really good about now. I'll be back later
"Pa's
a lot better, Joe. Hoss is with him." Adam kept his tone even. He hoped
the trouble between them was over now.
"Well,
that's good Adam." Joe's tone was sarcastic." Looks like nature will
just have to wait for
The
week of sleepless nights and worry had finally caught up with the eldest
Cartwright son. He just didn't want to fight anymore. He reached out to put his
hand on Joe's shoulder, hoping all this nonsense between them would stop.
"Oh, Joe----."
Joe's
reaction was quick and decisive. He had seen his brother's movement as a threat
and retaliated. The punch that connected with Adam's mouth
sent
him staggering back against the wall.
Adam
had been completely surprised by his younger brother's reaction. He wiped the
back of his hand across his lip and it came away stained with blood. He pushed himself
away from the wall and without saying anything went into his room and quietly
shut the door.
Joe
stood staring after his brother. I was sure he was gonna hit me he thought. Why
didn't he stick up for himself? He frowned and headed in to see his father.
Joe
mood immediately softened when he saw his beloved father. "Hi Pa, you
better?" he asked. "I've missed you."
"Me
too son, but I’m on the mend and I'll be up and around before you know
it." Ben motioned his son to come and sit beside him.
Hoss
said, "think I'll go check on Hop Sing. See that he's ok."
"Thank
you Hoss. That would be very nice. Between he and your older brother, they've
had very little rest the past week." Joe frowned at the mention of his
brother, a look that was not lost on his father.
Hoss
left on his errand and Joe sat next to his father. "Something happen
between you and Adam, son?" Ben asked.
"Nothing
for you to worry about Pa," Joe said with a lightness in his voice he did
not feel. He looked away from his father's steady gaze.
"I
always worry when my sons aren't happy. Why don't you tell me what happened
Joe? You might feel better talking." Ben put an encouraging hand on Joe's
arm.
"It
all started after the stallion died. I tried so hard Pa, to make things work
out. I wanted our horses to be the best in the territory and I thought this
stud would be our beginning." Joe hesitated and looked sadly at his
father. "I thought it was my beginning too." His voice trailed off.
"Your
beginning, son?' Ben asked.
"Yeah
Pa---something new that would be mine. Like Hoss oversees the cattle and Adam
has the mines and the timber. This would have been my way of contributing to
the ranch. You know---as an equal with Adam and Hoss." Joe looked out the
window for a moment, watching the sun set as a brilliant orange-red ball. When
he spoke again, his voice was quiet. "I was so angry and disappointed when
the horse died. And even though you and Hoss and Adam tried to make me
understand that I could start again, well, it was just easier to stay hurt and
angry."
Joe
dropped his head and looked away from his father. "I'm sorry,
"Joseph---look
at me son. Don't you think we knew how you were feeling?
For
some reason you have always felt you had to prove yourself to your brothers and
me. I guess that comes from being the youngest but it's not necessary. It never
was---you just thought so." Ben stopped for a minute to catch his breath.
"You are just as much a part of this ranch as your older brothers. You all
work hard and you all contribute to the running of the Ponderosa. And someday,
it will belong to the three of you." Ben added with a wink, "but not
quite yet young man."
Joe
dropped his head and covered his face with his hands. With a sob he said,
"oh, Pa---please don't say that."
"Confused
by Joe's response, he asked, "what is it, son?"
"I
said some things to Adam that----. " He lifted his head and faced his
father. "If I were Adam I would never forgive what I said."
"Now
Joe, Ben said, " I can't imagine you would say anything that bad." He
tried to smile.
"Probably
worse than you can imagine. I don't know what to do or say to him," Joe
said. "Pa, I'm sorry, I ----I hit him and he didn't even try to defend
himself. He just looked at me and walked away."
Not
quite able to believe what his son had just told him, Ben asked, "you hit
your brother?" His heart would not believe what his ears had heard.
Once
again, Joe dropped his head and answered, "yes Pa---I thought he was going
to hit me after something I said. I would have," he said bitterly.
"But when I think about it, he was just reaching out to me."
Although
Ben wanted to know what Joe had said, he thought it better not to ask. The boy
was upset enough. "Joe, I'm at a loss for what to say. Obviously, I don't
know the whole story but I can't fathom a reason that would call for violence
between brothers. Hoss and I have always acted as a buffer between you two, but
this time you'll have to figure out the solution yourselves. I know you love
each other, you'll just have to find a way to like each other." Ben was
beginning to tire.
"Pa,
I'm sorry to dump all this on you when you're just getting better. I'll find a
way to apologize to Adam." Joe got up and tucked the covers in around his
father.
"It
sounds as if it needs to be more than an apology, son." Ben's eyes closed
and he turned his body over to sleep.
**********
"Now
that Pa's better, I'm going up to the timber camp to see how the cuttings
coming along." Adam was talking to his brother Hoss as he saddled Sport.
"I'm sure Hop Sing can handle things from here."
"You
haven't had much rest Adam. Sure you don't want to wait a couple days before
you ride up there?" Hoss had a concerned look on his face.
"I'm
ok Hoss and I've been away from things too long as it is. Besides, you know how
important that contract is to the ranch." Adam was touched by his
brother's concern. "What's got you playing mother hen anyway?"
"Maybe
you need somebody to look after you every once in a while instead of the other
way around." Hoss' face was serious. "Don't you ever get tired of it,
Adam?" He faltered for a moment. "You know what I mean--- worrying
about the ranch, help'in Pa make decisions, worry'in about Joe and me. Don't it
get to be too much sometimes?"
Adam
knew Hoss' concern was genuine and refused to brush it aside. He turned to face
his beloved middle brother. "Yes, sometimes it does feel like too much.
And yes, sometimes it would seem nice to have no responsibilities." He
stopped and took a deep breath. "But nobody makes me this way Hoss, I just
am. Just like you and Joe and Pa are what you are." He put his hand on
Hoss' arm. " I love my family and I love this ranch. And at this
particular time in my life, they are the two most important things to me.
I'll
do what ever needs to be done to keep those things intact." He paused for
a moment and removed his hand from Hoss' arm. "Do you understand?"
"Yeah,
I think I do Adam. But that doesn't mean you can't lean a bit on somebody else
every once in a while." He smiled at Adam. "Might be good for yer
insides."
"I'll
keep that in mind", Adam said. "Take care of things here. I'll be
back tomorrow." With that, he mounted and rode toward the timber camp.
Joe
walked toward Hoss. "Hey, where's Adam going?" he asked.
"Up
to the timber camp. He wants to make sure the cutt'in's going all right,"
said Hoss as he watched the cloud of dust, kicked up by Sport, fade away.
"Shouldn't
he get more rest before he goes up there?" Joe asked.
Hoss
turned to his brother. "Thought you didn't care what happened to
Adam?" He continued on to the house leaving Joe to think about what he
said.
**********
The
sun was still high as Adam rode closer to the camp but for some reason he was
feeling chilled. He gently urged Sport to a stop and untied his jacket. After
putting it on and after quenching his thirst, he started up again. Not much
further now he thought.
The
sky was beginning to darken when Adam arrived at the lumber camp. Not from the time but rather from the gray
clouds that covered the sun and promised rain. He dismounted and joined the
crew. "Hello Charlie", Adam greeted the foreman. "Came to see
how things were coming along. Sorry I couldn't get here sooner. Pa's been
sick."
"Lord
a'mighty Adam, Mr. Cartwright is sick?" Charlie and Ben Cartwright had
been together for years and both had a respect for the others talents.
"Was
sick, Charlie. He's much better now." Adam unconsciously started rubbing
his right shoulder and rotating the joint. He grimaced with the movement.
"Everything's
right on schedule Adam. Don't see any problems at this end. We got a good crew
this time." Charlie was relieved to be able to tell Adam that all was
going well. The boy looked exhausted and he was glad he didn't have to add to
his burden. "Why don't you come on inside and have some coffee, than we'll
go look at the lumber."
"
That sounds wonderful." Adam was glad for the chance to sit down before
they went out to inspect the timber.
The
rain started in earnest while they sat quietly inside and drank their coffee.
"Awful day to be out look'in at lumber Adam. Why don't you stay the night
and look at it tomorrow?"
"I'd
normally do that, but I don't want to be away from home for too long right now.
The crew's out in this, guess I can be too. This way I can get an early start
in the morning." Adam rose and went to put on his jacket. I must be
getting old, quick, he said to himself. My hips hurt like hell in this rain.
Adam
was satisfied with what he saw and praised the crew for a job well done. He
promised them each a bonus when the contract was filled. The rain had not
diminished and both he and Charlie felt the working conditions were now unsafe.
The operation was halted for the rest of the day and the men were given hot
food and coffee. They were grateful for the warmth of the fire. The cold seemed
to penetrate deep into the marrow of their bones.
"I'll
bunk down here Charlie and start back early in the morning", Adam said. He
grabbed a couple of blankets and headed for an empty bunk in the corner. He lay
down and turned toward the wall. The lack of sleep finally caught up with him.
**********
"Yeah
Pa, I'd say it's the same thing you had. Hop Sing has a fever and a cough. Says
he hurts all over." Hoss had just left the diminutive housekeeper's room.
"I sent one of the hands for Dr. Martin. It's raining pretty hard so it
may take awhile for them to get back"
Ben
was sitting in his favorite chair by the fire with his feet up and a hot drink
by his side. He frowned at the news, the worry lines deepening.
"Thank
you son. I had hoped he'd escaped it. Think you and Joe can manage
alright?"
"Yeah
Pa, we can manage but----. Hoss stopped.
"But
what", Ben asked.
"Well,
it's just that Adam is out in this and he was with you more than Hop Sing. The
fears Hoss had been harboring were finally out in the open.
"What
do you mean your brother's out in this? Where is he?" Ben voice was
becoming louder as his fear escalated.
Just
than Joe walked in. "Boy, it's not fit for man nor beast out there. Wet
and cold." He shivered at his own description.
Hoss
threw him a look that plainly held the phrase "shut up". Joe looked
back, angry than confused.
"Hoss,
I asked you a question. Where is Adam?" Ben rose from his seat.
"He
went rode out early this morning to check on the timber camp. He was worried
about that lumber contract. He seemed fine Pa. Said he'd be back
tomorrow." Hoss decided the best explanation was as short as possible.
"And
he didn't see fit to tell me!" Ben's voice grew in volume until he started
to cough again. He sat back down in his chair, suddenly very tired once again.
He took a sip of his drink.
"He
thought it was important to go and see how things were com'in along. I figure
he didn't tell you because he didn't want you to worry about ranch business
yet." Hoss felt he had to defend his brother's actions.
Ben
rubbed his hand across his face. "Of course son. I'm sure he's fine. He's
so rarely ever sick." Joe and Hoss exchanged glances.
The
intensity of the rain increased, driving it against the windowpanes.
**********
Adam
woke himself up coughing. Most of the men were still asleep. He got up and
added wood to the fire, putting the coffeepot on. He thought he'd have a quick cup
and be on his way. The rain seemed to have let up for the moment and he just
wanted to go.
Charlie
came up behind him as he sipped the hot morning brew. "Gett'in ready to
ride?" he asked.
"Yeah,
I'll be glad to get home and see how Pa is doing." Adam finished his
coffee and started to put on his gun belt and coat. "You've done a great
job Charlie. Thanks-- and I know Pa will be pleased."
The
older man smiled at him. "You tell your Pa not to worry, Adam. Everything
will be fine. And you need to take care of yourself. I heard the coughing this
morning."
Adam
put on his hat and said "yes sir, I will" He walked out into a cold
drizzle that seemed to attack his bones immediately.
He
knew for sure he was sick this morning when he got up and it didn't take him
long to figure out what it was. Damn, I had hoped but I guess not, he thought.
I just need to get home and everything will be ok.
The
fever started to soar about halfway between the camp and the Ponderosa. Adam
was shaking and racked by the harsh cough. Sport walked on steadily. He didn't
seem pleased to be out in the miserable weather either.
Adam
huddled down into his coat and pulled his hat down further. His eyes burned and
watered from his increasing temperature. He began to sway in the saddle and for
the first time he wondered if he would be able to get back to the Ponderosa. He
leaned forward and rested against Sport's neck. "Take us home, boy"
he whispered.
**********
The
three Cartwright men sat at the breakfast table. None seemed very hungry. Paul
Martin had arrived late. He confirmed what they had already surmised. Hop Sing
had the same illness that had afflicted Ben. Hoss and Joe took turns with the
sick housekeeper while Ben tried to rest. He kept thinking of Adam and hoping
that his boy was tucked in safe and warm at the timber camp. The boys finished
breakfast and left to do the barn chores.
"I'm
going after him as soon as these chores are done and I speak to
"Why
should it be you? I can look for him as well as you can." Joe was becoming
defensive.
"Because
I need to know if he's ok, that's why and I care about----. Hoss stopped. He
rarely lost his temper but he was losing the battle this time.
Joe's
voice was soft now. "And I don't care. Is that it?" He didn't speak
for a moment. "Well you're wrong Hoss, I do care." He started to walk
away.
"Joe
wait. Ok, you go after him. But Joe, just bring him home as fast as you can. I
got an uneasy feel'in, is all." They both walked toward the house.
Ben
heard Joe and Hoss arguing but he couldn't make out the words. As they came
closer, he heard "go after Adam" and
'why should it be you". He wanted to go himself but he knew that
would be foolish and, God forbid, Adam was in trouble, he probably wouldn't be
much help.
Joe
explained where he was going to his father. It was clear that he was not asking
permission. "Be careful, son." He saw the pleading look in his
father's eyes.
"I'll
find him Pa, I promise." He smiled at Hoss and was gone.
**********
Sport
had to follow his instincts. He no longer had any direction from his rider. The
rain that had only been a drizzle now came down harder. Adam tired to lift his
head from his mount's neck but it was just too difficult.
Joe
rode as fast as he dared. The rain had made the trail thick and slippery with
mud and it wouldn't help anyone if he had an accident. It was hard to see very
far ahead. Cochise suddenly snorted and stopped. He was looking straight ahead,
up the trail. There, out of the mist, came the familiar mount that was his brothers.
Joe was about to shout at Adam until he saw that he was leaning forward across
Sport's neck.
Joe
dismounted and ran to his brother's side. He put his hand on Adam's arm. His
coat was soaked through and the rain funneled down off his hat. "Adam, can
you hear me? It's Joe."
Adam
opened his eyes but did not move. His breathing was labored. He stared at his
brother and finally the light of recognition ignited. "Joe, you came? I didn't think---." He was unable to
finish his thought before he passed out.
"I
know, you don't think I care---." Joe knew his brother couldn't hear his
words but he needed to say them anyway.
Joe
decided to leave Adam just as he was. He rode beside him, ready to mount behind
if he should start to fall. Halfway home, Adam started to slip from the saddle.
In one graceful movement, Joe vaulted behind his brother and brought him back
upright. He pulled his brother backward until Adam was leaning against his
chest, his head resting against Joe's neck. He could hear the fluids in his brother's
lungs rattle with each breath. Adam moaned and opened his eyes. "Joe"
he whispered and tried to smile.
With
his left hand holding his brother close, Joe pushed Adam's hair off his
forehead with his right. " Yeah, it's me, big brother", he said.
"Let's go home." He urged Sport forward.
It
seemed forever before the light's of the house shown in the distance. Finally,
they were in the yard. One of the hands had been coming out of the barn when
Joe arrived. "Go get Hoss", Joe shouted above the rain. The cowhand
ran to the front door and pounded.
Hoss
came to the door and spotted his brothers immediately. Joe dismounted and
waited. Between the two of them, they were able to get the unconscious man off
his horse and into the house. The hand took the tired horses into the barn.
They
carried Adam to the settee and carefully laid him down. Ben had heard their
arrival and came down the stairs. He stopped abruptly when he saw his boy. Adam
was shaking uncontrollably. His face was pale and his breathing was noisy and
labored. Ben's fears had come true.
Hoss
and Joe were taking the wet, cold clothes and boots from their brother's body.
They wiped the rivulets of water from his hair and face. Finally, they wrapped
the stripped form in a warm blanket. Hoss picked Adam up, held him close and
took him upstairs to his room. Ben walked slowly behind them.
"Joseph,
please get one of the hands to go for the doctor. Than get yourself warmed up
and changed." Ben started up the stairs than stopped. He turned and caught
Joe's attention as he started to speak. "Thank you for bringing him
home." Ben continued up the stairs.
Joe
slumped down on the fireplace hearth. He covered his face with his hands.
"Oh God, he thought, they all think I don't care. I never wanted it to be
this way-----.
***********
Joe
stared into the fire for what seemed like forever. He had asked one of the
hands to ride into
Joe
shook himself out of his reverie and decided to check on Hop Sing before he
changed. The person, who always seemed to know what each of the Cartwrights
needed, now needed them. He lay quietly in the middle of his bed. Joe thought
that he looked even smaller and noticed how the illness had made him seem
frail. He dropped his head on his chest and took a shuddering breath.
Hop
Sing opened his eyes. "Lit'l Joe not feeling well?" he asked.
"Oh,
I'm sorry Hop Sing, I didn't mean to wake you" Joe said. "No, I'm
feeling fine."
"Why
boy all wet?" Even through his fever, he could tell something was wrong
with this youngest son.
"I
went out to get Adam. We figured if you were sick than probably he was too and
he had ridden out to the timber camp." Joe sat next to Hop Sing's bed.
"He's really sick. Pa and Hoss are with him now. They're waiting for the
doctor." Joe ran a hand through his still wet hair. "I'm sorry--- you
don't need to hear all of this now. Can I get you something?"
Hop
Sing shook his head and looked closely at Joe "Why Lit'l Joe not upstairs
with oldest brother?"
The
intuitive housekeeper would know if he were not telling the truth. Joe looked
away. "I'm not sure he wants me
there" he whispered.
"Youngest
son very wrong. Mr. Adam love and protect you since you come into world. That
cannot change. Some links cannot be broken." Hop Sing was stopped by a
harsh, drawn out cough. "Mr. Adam and Mr. Joe two different people---not
right, not wrong---just different." His eyelids began to flutter closed.
"Same coin---two different sides, but same coin."
***********
Joe
waited a few minutes to make sure Hop Sing was sleeping peacefully, than left
to get cleaned up. Eventually, he headed for Adam's room. There was a part of
him who was afraid to enter. He chastised himself for being weak and walked
into the room with a bravado he knew wasn't real.
He
heard before he saw---the harsh, rasping he recognized to be his brother's
breathing. The same sounds he had heard on the trail had now intensified. Hoss
stood at the foot of Adam's bed, alternately staring at his older brother and
looking away. His father sat on the bed, close to his son. They had put several
pillows behind Adam's back, hoping a more upright position would ease his
struggle. Ben held his firstborn's hand and whispered words no one else could
hear. He wiped Adam's fevered face with cool water and pushed back the dampened,
black hair.
Joe
walked to Hoss' side. "Has he said anything?" he asked quietly, not
wanting to disturb his father.
"No,
noth'in Joe. Seems like it's tak'in all his strength just to breath. Every once
in awhile he moans like he's in pain but that's all." Hoss' fists clenched
and unclenched around the bed rail.
"Where's
Doc Martin, anyhow?" Hoss asked with the impatience more characteristic of
his younger brother.
"The
roads are a mess. More mud than anything else. It may take him awhile."
Joe looked over at his father than at his oldest brother. Please hurry he
thought.
Ben
had not moved from his seat on the bed. He hoped Adam could hear his words and
find some kind of comfort in them. His thoughts jumped from memories of the
baby to the boy to the man. "Don't leave me now son. We need you; I need
you more than ever." He held his boy's hand to his cheek.
Hoss
had gone down stairs to check on Hop Sing. He was just coming out of his room
when a banging came at the front door. He opened it to find a damp Paul Martin.
"Hello Hoss. Maybe I should rent a room out here." He removed his wet
coat and hat. "Your rider said it's Adam this time." He followed an
anxious Hoss up the stairs.
"Yes
sir, it is. And he seems worse than Pa and Hop Sing," he said. Paul heard
the worry in Hoss' voice. He reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Hoss'
arm. "Let's go have a look at him."
Doctor
Martin took charge immediately, sending both the Cartwright brothers downstairs.
He would have sent Ben too had it been possible but the apprehensive father was
not about to leave his child.
"Ben---Ben,
has he been conscious at all?" the doctor asked. He uncovered his
patient's chest.
"No
Paul, he hasn't said a word." Ben's voice became softer. " He only
whimpers as if he's in pain. It's just so hard for him to breathe."
"Ok
Ben. Let me have a look at him and than we'll talk." Dr. Martin found his
patient fevered and covered in sweat. He knew Adam's body must be craving water
but they couldn't risk giving him any while he was still unconscious. His lungs
fought against the fluids that were trying to choke him. The muscles between
his ribs pulled hard to bring in air. Paul drew the covers back up.
"Ben
let's go out in the hall for a minute." Ben hesitated. "He'll be all
right. Why don't you call the boys up." When he was alone with his
patient, Paul put his hand on Adam's heaving chest and said, "how did you
get so sick? I just don't understand it."
The
three men stood together in the hall. " Adam has the same sickness as you
and Hop Sing. But I have to admit I'm puzzled. He's young and strong and he's
not sick otherwise. I can't figure out why he's so much worse." He stopped
for a moment. "I have to be honest Ben, this could turn into
pneumonia."
Hoss
looked at his stricken father and he moved closer. "Doc, Adam rode out of
here yesterday morning. I tried to get him to rest for at least a day before he
went up to the timber camp but he wouldn't. He must have been caught in the
rain going up there and we know he rode back in it," Hoss said.
"Wait
a minute. Are you telling me he's been out working in this weather?" Paul
asked angrily. "He was exposed to influenza, didn't get the proper rest
and decided to go out in the cold rain. Well that answers my question about why
he's so much worse." Paul lowered his voice. "Ben, you know I'll do
everything in my power to help him but what he did was reckless. I just hope he
doesn't pay the price." The doctor turned and walked back into Adam's
room.
Ben
looked at his two youngest. The strain of his own illness was etched on his
face and the growing fear for his eldest pushed his endurance. "I'm going
back in with Adam, boys. Please look after Hop Sing. " With a distracted
look he said,"I'll call you if I need you." He shut the door quietly
behind him.
**********
They
had tried to cool Adam's fevered body with cold water and ease his breathing
with steaming kettles. When he finally came around, he couldn't spare the air
needed to speak so he held tightly to his father's hand. Ben spoke soft words
of encouragement to his frightened son.
Paul
walked from his place by the window to Adam's side. "Ben, I want to try
something different. I can't guarantee it will work but we've got to do
something that will relieve his breathing." Ben started to rise. "No
Ben-- I want you to stay still. You're not completely well yourself. I'll get
the boys to help me." The doctor went to the head of the stairs and called
to Hoss and Joe.
"I
want to take all the pillows out from behind him so he's flat again than turn
him over on his stomach." They did as the doctor asked, not understanding
what was about to happen. "Hoss, you sit on the side of the bed next to
him," the doctor said.
Once
Adam was flat in bed, he started to struggle. It was hard enough to breathe
sitting up. Watching his son's feeble attempts to fight was too much for Ben.
With tears tracking down his face, he started to rise. Joe stood behind him and
placed his hands on father's shoulders. Ben sagged back in his chair, feeling
helpless. Hoss spoke soothing words to his restless and frightened brother.
Adam looked wide-eyed at his trusted middle brother and began to calm.
"Now
lower his head and chest off the side of the bed. Hoss, you steady him so he
doesn't fall. Joe, put that basin near his head." Doctor Martin stood at
his patient's side and began to rhythmically strike the area over Adam's
congested lungs. With the secretions loosened and the help of gravity, Adam
began to cough out the thick fluids that threatened to end his life. Within a
few minutes, he was exhausted. Hoss gently pulled his now limp brother to his
chest while the others stacked pillows behind him. He laid him back down and
rose so his father could take his place.
For
the first time since Joe brought him home, Adam felt as if he could think of
something other than his next breath. He knew when he opened his eyes that his
father would be near. What he saw frightened him almost as much as not being
able to breathe. His father seemed to have aged greatly just in the time he was
away. " Oh Pa," he said, "I'm sorry I left. I shouldn't have
worried you so." He reached out and brushed a tear from his father's cheek.
Haltingly, he said, "I'll be alright. I promise."
"Yes
son, of course you will," Ben said. "We all will."
Adam
fought hard against the illness that had struck him. With the help of his
brothers, Dr. Martin performed the same procedure several times over the next
few days. Each time he rallied and fought harder. Finally, he was strong enough
to clear his lungs on his own. To everyone's great relief, he began to sleep
for longer intervals. And so did they.
**********
A
warm breeze floated in and wrapped itself around a beautiful morning. It was
the first time Adam was allowed out of the house. Hop Sing was well long before
he was and had made sure he ate a decent breakfast. He walked slowly toward the
lower corral. His face was still a little pale but the warm sun would soon fix
that. Ben watched from a window as his now recovering son moved with a steady
gait toward his destination. He smiled and closed his eyes, thanking a merciful
God.
Joe
sat on the top rail of the corral fence watching a new herd of riding stock
they had just bought. He appraised each animal for conformation and what
limited movement he could see as they milled around in their new surroundings.
He did not hear his oldest brother approach and was surprised when Adam mounted
the fence next to him. "Hi Adam," he said quietly, turning his
attention back to the horses. "Doc Martin finally let you loose?"
"Yeah---it
was either that or I was going to climb out the window," he said.
The
memory of Adam climbing out the window and down the tall pine outside his room
made Joe smile. "It wouldn't be the first time."
The
memory made Adam smile too. "Haven't seen much of you Joe. Guess you and
Hoss have been busy with everyone else sick. I don't know how you two escaped
it but I'm glad you did." He
coughed from the dust being raised by the horses.
Joe's
face wore a look of concern when he said, "you alright Adam?"
"I'm
ok---really Joe, it's just the dust." They both studied the animals again.
"Which one do you like?" Adam asked, his tone subdued.
"Oh,
it's kinda hard to tell yet, but I think that little bay with the four white
socks and the star. He moves well, has lots of spunk and he's pretty to boot.
Which
one would you choose?" Joe's curiosity was raised now.
"The
black standing off to the side. He's big and powerful. Looks like a lot of staying power. He seems to be watching what's going on.
Maybe a sign of intelligence." Adam's eyes were on the horse but his
thoughts were on his younger brother.
A strained
quiet stood between them. Both had things to say but neither one knew how to
start. Adam started to climb down. "Guess I not quite so ready to stay
out. Good luck with the horses, Joe." He started toward the house.
"Adam---wait!
Joe walked to his brother's side. "I'm sorry---sorry for all the things I
said and for hitting you. I had no right. Not over a horse." Joe looked
away. He was having a hard time looking his brother in the eye.
"We
both know it wasn't the horse Joe. It's us---you and me," Adam said
softly. They started walking together.
"You don't need to prove your place in this family Joe. You were born to
it." He saw Joe stiffen at his words.
"Listen to me Joe. The oldest in the family gets to do things
first; gets more privileges. But with the privileges comes responsibility and
we all know I take that too seriously." His laughter was empty. "I
never needed you to prove anything to me----it was your need." They
stopped walking and Adam placed his hands on Joe's shoulders. "You have been
loved and cherished from the moment of your birth. And it's never been any
other way."
Adam
started again for the house. Joe stood still, a tear sliding down his face. As
he watched his brother reach the porch he whispered,"I do care,
Adam."
**********
"Is
this trip really necessary, Adam? I'm not convinced you're fully
recovered." Ben's brows were drawn together in a disapproving manner.
"Stop
worrying
Ben
would not be deterred from his argument. "Well, Dr. Martin is not your
father and I worry about you going off on your own so soon."
"Pa,
no disrespect, but if I waited for you to stop worrying, I'd never leave the
ranch. What's got you spooked?" His smile faded when he saw that his
father still looked concerned.
"Oh,
son, I'm not sure I know what it is." He reached for Adam's arm.
"Forgive me. I can still see you so sick and I couldn't help." He
stopped to gather his thoughts. "A father's worse nightmare."
"I'll
be careful. I promise--and I'll be home in a week." He mounted and held
his hand out.
Ben
took it between his own and held it for a moment. "Be careful son and come
home safely," he said.
Adam
tipped his hat and was gone.
**********
Hoss
and Joe did their best to either stay away from their father or at least, try
not to provoke him. Ben's moods shifted from apprehension to anger and back
again with little provocation. As the week went on, he became more withdrawn
and distracted.
It
was Friday night and Joe had left for town. Hoss had decided to stay home. He
was becoming worried about his father and had decided to confront him that evening.
Ben sat in his familiar red chair in front of the fire. He was trying to
concentrate on reading, with little success.
"Pa,
tell me what's bothering you. You haven't been yourself since Adam left."
Hoss waited for his father's reply.
Ben
let at a long breath and said, " It's your brothers, son. I'm afraid the
rift between he and Joe may be too big to mend this time." He looked into
the flames. "I don't want him to leave."
Hoss
was shocked by his father's statement. "Did Adam say he was thinking of
leaving Pa?"
Ben
turned back toward his son. "No--- no he didn't actually say so but I
think he feels Joe would be better off if he weren't around." Hoss looked
at his father for more. "When Adam was recovering, he told me more about
what happened between them. And I know there was some of it he wouldn't share
with me. Hoss looked away with guilt on his face. Ben smiled. "Don't worry
son, I won't ask you.
Hoss
was grateful that his father had not asked him to repeat some of the heated
words Joe had directed toward his oldest brother. Ben would have been stunned
and deeply hurt.
"Pa,
if Adam said he'll be back, than he will. He'd never lie about a thing like
that. You have to trust him,
Hoss'
sincerity touched Ben and he said, "you're right Hoss. He'll be
back."
But
the look on Ben's face betrayed what he was really feeling.
**********
It
was getting late when Adam rode into
"Hello
Dave, you in here?" Adam called. He led both horses through the double
doors.
"Hello
Adam. What brings you in so late?" the stable owner asked.
"Thought
I'd spend the night in town. Can you give these two a bed?" Adam asked.
Dave
walked around Sport to take a look at the other horse. The animal stood a good
16-2 hands high. He was a black-bay with three white socks and a small star on
his forehead. "He's a beauty, Adam---what's his breeding?"
"Thoroughbred-Arab
cross. Rare outside the East. I heard about him last time I talked to a friend
of mine in
"You
taking over the breeding end of things at the ranch, Adam? Dave started to
untack Sport.
Adam
smiled. "Not me. Joe would have my head." Adam held a hand up in
surrender. "No, the horse is a present for Joe. To replace the one he
lost."
He
walked over to Sport and affectionately scratched his ears.
"I'll
be in early Dave. Thanks for taking care of these two. I think they're as tired
as I am. Good night," Adam said.
Adam
made his way down the street toward the hotel. He heard the music coming from
the Silver Dollar and all of a sudden the thought of a beer was very tempting.
He walked to the saloon and through the bat-wing doors. He went straight to the
bar and ordered a drink. A slow smile spread across his face as he looked into
the mirror over the bar. I should have known, he said to himself. He saw the
reflected image of his brother Joe, having what appeared to be an intimate
conversation with a very pretty blonde. "Hey Sam, who's the new girl Joe's
so interested in?" Adam asked.
"Oh,
she just started a few nights ago. Leave it to your brother to find all the
pretty, new girls," Sam replied, a smile lighting his face.
"Yes,
he certainly has a talent for that," Adam smiled back but what he saw next
caused the smile to disappear. "The man at the next table. He keeps
staring at Joe and the young lady." All of a sudden, Adam stopped being
tired and become alert. "What's that all about?"
Sam
was annoyed by the stranger's behavior. "I already spoke to him once. Just
because she had a drink with him the other night, he seems to think she
shouldn't talk to anyone else."
Joe
still had not spotted his brother and Adam left it that way. The younger man
was too busy dazzling the girl to notice anything around him. Turning back to
the bar, Adam glanced in the mirror once more. What he saw made him freeze, his
beer was in midair. The man, who had been watching the pair in the corner,
slowly slipped a knife from under his coat.
Adam
put his beer down and turned in one movement. He saw instantly that he couldn't
use his gun without the possibility of someone innocent getting hurt. He threw
himself forward, shouting a warning to Joe at the same time.
Joe
was so startled at hearing his brother's voice, he couldn't move.
The
stranger was on his feet and moving toward the couple. Adam placed himself in
the man's path. He grabbed at the knife and twisted the attacker's wrist. Both
men battled for the weapon. The knife swung wildly between them, slashing its
way through the air.
Adam
wrenched the man's wrist once again and the knife fell to the floor. With his
hands now free, he was able to place a well-aimed fist to the man's jaw and
send him staggering across the room and into the wall. The attacker
stayed
down.
Joe
ran to his brother's side. "Adam, are you alright? Who is that guy? When
did you get back?"
"Whoa,
hold on Joe---one question at a time. I'm fine. I don't know. And just
tonight." He was beginning to catch his breath again. "Can't leave
you alone for a minute, can I?" Adam's smile was quick and his eyes
sparkled. It felt comfortable teasing his brother again, like all the animosity
and confusion had finally dissipated. His body physically sagged from the
release of the long held tension. Or at least, he thought that's what it was
from.
All
of a sudden, Adam's knees buckled and he started to fall. Joe caught him. He
couldn't understand what was happening. He felt a stinging pain across the ribs
on his left side and he reached down to see what might be causing it. His
brother lowered him gently to the floor.
Adam
felt as if he were floating. People and voices seemed to recede. He could hear
Joe calling his name but he was having trouble forming the words to answer. He
pulled his hand away from his side and saw that it was covered in blood. His
vision dimmed from the outside, inward. That was the last thing he remembered.
**********
The
first of Adam's senses to return was his hearing. Although he couldn't quite
understand what was being said, he could make out the soft rumble of voices
somewhere in the room. As he became more aware, he could feel a burning pain in
his side and he instinctively reached for it. Someone took his hand and stopped
him from touching the wound. He opened his eyes slowly and the sight that
greeted him was his brother Joe, looking apprehensive and still holding his
hand.
"Now
look Adam, this has got to stop. You're trying to make me old before my time.
First you nearly die from pneumonia than you decide to get yourself cut up in a
bar room brawl. How's a man suppose to cope with all this anyhow?" Joe's
tone was light but his grip on Adam's hand remained firm.
"Sorry
little brother. You know how much I hate to upset you." His voice was weak
but Joe was glad Adam's sense of humor was still intact.
"Well
I'm afraid I'm not the only one who's gonna be upset. Doc sent for
"Oh
God, please tell me I'm dying. That way Pa can't be angry." Adam was only
half kidding.
"Nope---you're
gonna be just fine. You've got quite a few stitches in your side and you've
lost some blood but doc says you'll be just fine," said Joe.
Adam
just groaned and closed his eyes.
"By
the way," Joe continued, " thanks for what you did. I never even saw
the guy." Joe's face had lost its smile. "He could have killed
me." He stopped for a moment, thinking about what he wanted to say.
"I guess Hoss was right, you would do anything for the family---for
me."
Adam
looked at his brother and smiled, squeezing the hand that still held his.
"Yeah,
I guess I would." He started to get up. "Come on Joe let's get out of
here. If we meet Pa on the way home, he'll see that I'm alright." But a
wave of dizziness forced him back down.
"Now
stay down," Joe said.
Adam
closed his eyes and rested. Joe thought he had drifted off to sleep. He was
startled when he heard his brother's deep voice. "Joe, I almost forgot. At
the livery, a present for you. Go ahead and get it. I'll just sleep until Pa
comes."
"You
sure Adam?" Joe asked. It was hard for him to contain his growing
excitement.
"Yeah---go
ahead, Joe. I'll be fine." Adam drifted off toward sleep.
Joe
waited a few minutes until he was sure his brother was comfortable. He walked
quietly from the room.
Adam
opened his eyes and smiled at the memory of his younger brother's excitement.
It felt good between them again. He sighed and closed his eyes to rest.
4/04