Christenings, Commissions and Christmas
by
Lyn Robinson

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

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

Joe was relaxed, but feeling tired, although he barely noticed it so very content with his wife and child. It still seemed like a dream and he couldn’t believe he wouldn’t wake up if he took his eyes off them both. Nita was too thrilled to be tired yet and as soon as she had finished her food she took the baby and tried rather clumsily to put him to her breast, but it wasn’t as easy as it looked and the baby didn’t cooperate. She was close to tears, with things going wrong and Joe bent over and kissed her, “Relax my love. I know Carole had a row with herself at first. I’ll fetch her or Sue to give you a hand. It’s just a knack.”

Nita felt as though she was failing her baby the first time she was tested but Joe went to the door and called for Carole and Sue. Then he went back to the bed and sitting on it put his arm round Nita and reassured her that it didn’t matter. Carole and Sue had hurried up but Joe’s grin reassured them and it didn’t take him a minute to explain the problem. Sue wasn’t surprised and despite only having fed Johnny for a week she was better able to help than Carole after years of nursing. Joe slipped out while they helped her and went over to wash his face, try to get some sense of reality, it still all seemed like a dream.

Ben joined him as he dried off, “Are you alright Joseph?”

Joe turned, not surprised to see his father, “I think so Pa. Just find it hard to believe it’s over, sort of scared I’ll wake up and find it’s just a dream.”

“No dream Little Joe, or rather one that you will live for many years. You have a beautiful son.” Ben squeezed his son’s shoulder, “Maybe we ought to stop calling you Little Joe now you’re a father.”

Joe smiled, “You’ll never do that Pa, neither you nor my brothers and I wouldn’t want you to. Few outsiders do now and even you don’t use it much outside the family, not when strangers are around, but it would feel very odd if I didn’t hear it at home.”
Ben was rather pleased by his son’s reaction, Joe might be a father but he was still his youngest son and it didn’t seem so very long since he was a baby himself. Joe was right, it would be virtually impossible to break himself of a habit built over nearly thirty years.

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

“I’m not.”

“You will be when you come down from the heights a bit. Try and get a nap this afternoon, the baby will sleep.”

Nita didn’t look convinced and for the moment he was certainly showing no signs of sleeping, but as she took him off her breast he hiccuped. Nita looked up at Joe in sudden fear but Joe just grinned. “It’s alright, regular for our brats; one of the twins did it just after he was born. Just hiccups.”

Joe took the baby, giving Nita some more coffee, “Sue is right, you ought to rest.”
“I’m too excited darling. Anyway now he’s here and you can see him, what about choosing a name.”

Joe sighed “I thought it might help but I’m still blank. Have you got any ideas?”
Nita hesitated, she knew what she would like to call her baby but she wasn’t sure of Joe’s reaction. Joe frowned, not really knowing what her expression meant, “Out with it Nita. I’m open to suggestion, although I warn you if you’re thinking of something like Lancelot or Galahad, I’ll impose a veto!”

Nita giggled at that and leant against him, “You’ve none of you really used family names, have you?”

Joe shrugged, “David and Mark have Benjamin and Joseph as second names and my Uncle, Will’s father, was John. What are you thinking, I’m not too keen on Joseph Jnr.”

“I wasn’t thinking of that, I love you but Joseph is not my favourite name.” Nita hesitated but Joe had got the drift, “He is our first born.”

Nita smiled, “I always loved the name Adam and this last year it’s come to mean so much more. I was such a total bitch to him and yet he’s taken me so much into the family. They all have, I couldn’t believe they could all be so very special. I knew you were, and one seemed a miracle, but…. What do you think and how would your brother feel?”

Joe frowned as he considered her suggestion, he hadn’t expected it and Nita put her hand on his arm, “I’d like to call the baby Adam Benjamin, but he’s your son too.”
Joe was very moved that his wife wanted to call her firstborn after his family, knowing how much it had meant to him when Adam named his daughter after Marie and in itself the name was attractive for his firstborn. His only hesitation was over the inevitable occasional problem with two people of the same name living in close proximity. Thinking about it and given the difference in age and that they would be living in different houses; Joe didn’t think it would be too big a problem and certainly didn’t outweigh the attractions of the idea. Nita sat watching the various feelings flitting across Joe’s face as he got used to the novel idea. Then he smiled broadly, looking down at the baby, “Adam Benjamin, I really like it darling. I don’t think I would have thought of it, but now it seems obvious.”

“Are you sure darling? I don’t want to force it on you.”

“I’m sure sweetheart, but it was your idea, would you like to tell them yourself?”

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

“No I want to do it, please.”

“Fair enough.” Joe kissed her, “Relax sweetheart. I’ll fetch them all.” and he passed his son back to her while he headed downstairs where all his family were gathered. Ben looked up as he heard Joe on the stairs, the other four were by the fire with Anne and Johnny, no work was even being attempted. Joe smiled at his father, “Nita would like to see you all for a few minutes and then maybe I can persuade her to have a nap.”

Everyone followed him upstairs without question, for now whatever Nita wanted was top priority and they gathered around her bed. Joe had taken up his position on the bed, his arm round his wife who was cuddling their newborn child, but for the moment he wasn’t looking at her. Instead, rather to his family’s surprise, Joe was intently studying his eldest brother. Adam frowned not understanding but Carole looked from Nita and Joe to her husband and made a shrewd guess what was coming.
She hoped that she was right, knowing just how much it would mean to Adam. She was the only one to have any idea as Nita nervously cleared her throat. Joe squeezed her shoulder gently and she smiled up at him, before continuing, “Joe was useless, no ideas in naming our son and he left it to me, although I think he approves of my choice.”

“Very much.” Joe broke in.
Nita relaxed, “This last year I’ve had more happiness than I ever dreamt existed, a lot of it was thanks to Joe, but all of you, everyone despite severe provocation, welcomed me to the family. A closeness that I couldn’t believe at first. There’s no way I can ever thank you all, you have changed my life, made everything worth while. I want my son to grow up a true Cartwright, as happy as we all are. It can only be a token and it’s a name I’ve always loved anyway but in every way it seemed appropriate, I’ve called him Adam Benjamin. I do hope you don’t mind Adam?”

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

Joe had gripped Adam’s arm as his brother struggled to retain his control, “You sure you don’t mind Adam?”

Adam couldn’t answer but Joe read the answer on his brother’s face, it meant as much to Adam as the naming of Marie had meant to him. A gesture, an acceptance of him, of all of them and all they stood for, which would always be present. Just as Joe shared in his son with a very special relationship with Mark, so Adam would with his namesake, his brother’s firstborn.

Ben suggested that the rest of them leave Joe and Nita in peace with their new son but Adam didn’t even take in their departure. He had won control of himself, it was unfair to get too emotional with Nita, she was inevitably over excited, walking an emotional tightrope. Adam surreptitiously wiped his eyes while Joe hovered anxiously and then turned and went over to the bed. He took Joe’s position actually on the bed and put his arm round Nita, before leaning forward slightly to move the shawl back from the baby’s head. “I just hope I don’t get the blame for his escapades with Joe as his father.” He kissed Nita’s forehead, “I hope you have some idea just how much this means to me, to all of us. I thank God Joe brought such a very precious and beautiful girl into our family.”

“You don’t mind another Adam in the family? It might cause a few problems.”

“We’ll sort them out without recourse to use of junior. Of course I don’t mind, I’m delighted.”

Nita kissed him “I just hope my son grows up to be half the man you are Adam. If he does he’ll be someone very special.”

To Joe’s amusement his brother blushed hotly but he endorsed his wife’s opinion. Adam lent over and kissed the baby’s head, “He’ll be special Nita, with you and Joe as parents he can’t fail to be. I tried to tell you about my little brother once before, young Adam only has to take after his father.”
It was Joe’s turn to blush as Adam got to his feet, “It’s time you let Joe put young Adam in his cradle and you followed his example. Have a nap before dinner Nita, wouldn’t do you any harm either Joe.”

Nita couldn’t help yawning but Joe didn’t bother to answer and Adam simply said, “We’ll be downstairs if you want anything Joe.” before heading out.

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

Downstairs Adam had gone straight into the study and poured himself a brandy. Carole followed him in, she was sure that he was pleased although Ben and Hoss had both wondered if he might have mixed feelings about the choice. They all knew he would be delighted by the reasons Nita had given, but unsure about having two Adams. Carole didn’t think the minor problems of the same name would worry anyone. Joe and Nita lived in their own house and nearly always it would be obvious which Adam was meant. After all many families managed easily with the eldest son named after the father, she was used to it having grown up with the habit in New England. She was delighted Nita had waned to do it, liking the compliment to her husband. Adam was sipping his brandy staring at the painting of the lake as Carole came in, he put his arm round her, “I don’t deserve it.”

“Nita and Joe think you do and I agree with them.”

“Joe seemed pleased but it was Nita’s idea.”

“I know darling, both your brothers’ wives have become very close to you.”

“All three. Joe’s remarkable isn’t he? Two girls both so unlikely in their own ways and yet such good wives and marvelous sisters. I didn’t think for a while that I’d ever be as close to Nita as I was to Marie, but she’s just as special, a part of our family now and thankfully for much longer. He’s a lovely baby.”

“Joe’s luck is in this time and noone deserves it more.” Carole grinned broadly, very fond of her youngest brother-in-law. “I think he’s going to look more like Mark than David does.”

Adam shrugged, “Mark always took after Joe but I suspect he’s going to be bigger than either Joe or young Adam.”

“Time will tell.” Carole said, “You haven’t eaten anything all day, you want anything?”

Adam shook his head, “No I’m fine darling, a little overemotional maybe but that’s a. I’ll wait for dinner.”

Carole left him in peace and tried to reassure Hoss and Sue but Ben went into his son. Adam looked up, “Brandy Pa?”

“Sounds good. What do you think of Nita’s choice of names?”

“I like it; in fact I’m delighted and very touched as you must have noticed. Nearly disgraced myself.”

“Hardly.” Ben said, “More of a surprise to you than to the rest of us, it was obviously coming.”

“Well I’d missed it completely. What about you Pa?”

“I think I like it, always been a favourite name of mine. “Ben smiled at his eldest son, “Carole says we’ll soon get used to having two of you around. Just a surprise but a very sweet idea, she’s quite a girl.”

“Joe seemed pleased.”

“He was in fact, everything seems right to Joe just now but he’s going to have some sort of reaction sooner or later.”

“I know or I’d have gone for a ride.”

“Hoss and I can cope you know.”

“I don’t doubt it Pa but I couldn’t settle. In fact I think I’ll get on with the precedents we need for the writ. I’m restless I’d rather work.”

Unlike the hours while he awaited the birth of his child, the time Joe spent sitting by Nita as she slept flew past. He studied his son’s face until it was fixed in his mind and just occasionally remembered the face of Marie’s child and his beautiful first wife who had been so surprisingly peaceful in death. Joe was totally at peace, it felt as though Marie was telling him that she was pleased, what she had always wanted
for the man she loved. Joe had the painting of the view down to the promontory and he spent long minutes staring at it, both his wives and his child so clear in his mind’s eye he had no need to look at them.

Nita woke up after a couple of hours but for a minute Joe wasn’t aware of her, intently watching his son, a gentle smile on his face, a serenity she had never seen before, complete peace. Nita savoured his expression, knowing their child meant as much to Joe as he did to her. She was relaxed just watching Joe when Adam very quietly peeked in to see who was awake, as it was dinnertime. Joe looked up at that and realized his wife was awake but for a minute the expression on his face didn’t change and Adam knew that he would never forget it or the love on Nita’s face as she looked at her husband. He said very softly, “The peace that defies man’s understanding.”
Joe smiled more broadly, “Now I know just why I was envious of you and Hoss. You said it Adam, no feeling in the world quite like that of holding your firstborn.”
Adam smiled, “I don’t often say I told you so but we all did, mother and child fit and well and very beautiful. However you can’t live on pride Joe so I’ve been sent up by Kam Su and Hop Sing. They want your order for dinner.”

Nita was hungry again and even Joe thought he could manage a steak, so Adam took their orders down and with Hoss’ help brought up trays before the elder brothers went for their own food. Adam still wasn’t hungry and only picked at his food and upstairs Joe didn’t do much better, he did manage most of the meat but left the rest. Nita cleared her plate and then with Sue and Joe’s help she soaked in a salt bath which eased some of the soreness before curling up in bed. Tired out she was asleep almost instantly and the baby was sleeping peacefully too. Joe was pacing up and down, wishing he hadn’t eaten anything as it had just made him feel sick. He was scared of disturbing Nita or the baby and so he went downstairs, “I think Nita will probably sleep until morning. Pa, Carole will you look after her and my son. If they need anything. I want to get some fresh air.”

Ben nodded, “Of course Joseph.”

Joe looked over at Hoss who was cuddling Johnny; Sue had just finished feeding him. Joe wouldn’t take his brother away from his wife and child but he had no hesitation in asking Adam to come with him. To his surprise Hoss passed the baby over to his father, “Think I could do with some air too.”

Joe hesitated, “You don’t have to Hoss, you can stay with Sue and Johnny, I’m alright.”

“I know I don’t have to little brother but I’d like to unless ….”

Joe broke in “Oh I want you if you feel like that.” Both his brothers had seen the growing tension in Joe over the last few minutes. They had been expecting it and were confident that they could help, but they needed to get Joe away from so many people in order to persuade him to talk. There was a thin layer of snow on the ground so all of them put on their thick leather coats and scarves before going out to saddle up. They worked basically in silence although Joe did ask where his nephews were. Adam grinned, “Fast asleep, another new baby wasn’t nearly as exciting as a picnic in the bunkhouse. Jess and the others thoroughly overfed them and succeeded in wearing them out.”

“Good for Jess.”

“Yeah, even took Marie. He was very apologetic for taking them without asking, until I got at him.”

Joe swung up on Cochise, “Let’s go to the Lake.”

“Where else.” Hoss commented and the three brothers moved smoothly up to the Lake, the elder brothers one either side of Joe, who was lost in thought. Joe dismounted and tying Cochise up he walked over to his wife’s grave, but for once he didn’t kneel to pray, he was too confused. Adam and Hoss waited a little way back but as they watched, Joe began to shudder and without discussion they moved closer.
Adam put his arm round his brother’s shoulders but Joe, fighting for control, didn’t even hear his brothers encouraging him to let go. Joe felt thoroughly confused and guilty, as though his delight in his son was in some way disloyal to Marie. He wasn’t aware of his brothers, nor the fact that he was speaking aloud, albeit in broken disjointed phrases. Adam and Hoss met each other’s gaze in growing concern as they realized in near disbelief what Joe was thinking. Joe said, “If only; but then; my son; oh God.”

Hoss frowned, “He can’t be serious Adam.”

“Just not thinking straight, it’s been a strain. Come on Hoss, let’s get him away from here for a start.” Slowly Adam cajoled and led Joe away from the grave up to the point.

At least Joe seemed aware of their presence although he was still trembling uncontrollably. Adam eased him down into his normal spot and then said, “You have to talk little brother or you’re going to make yourself ill.”

“I can’t.” Joe shut his eyes not wanting even Adam to see the state he was in. Adam settled himself next to his brother and put his arm round his brother’s shoulders.

“Alright Joe I’ll talk, you listen, tell me if I’ve got it wrong.” Joe frowned but made no attempt to stop his brother. Adam said, “You’re feeling guilty because you have a son whose birth means so much to you. Guilty because if Doc had succeeded in saving Marie’s life you would never have had children of your own.”

Joe nodded slowly, “Something like that, almost as though I’m happy because she’s dead.”

Hoss moved convulsively to protest, “It ain’t like that Joe.”

Adam smiled, “Hoss is right. I was there Joe when Doc asked you to choose mother or child. So very hard but you said, ‘I don’t care about children I love and need my wife.’ Don’t you think we know you, little brother? You loved Marie so much, if Doc had pulled off a miracle and saved her life you’d never have given another woman a thought. You may have your faults but disloyalty isn’t one of them. Maybe over the years as you settled into being a doting Uncle there might have been momentary pangs, thoughts of what might have been if only she’d been stronger, but then you’d have looked at your wife and thanked God for his mercy in giving you her life.”

Joe frowned looking from Adam to Hoss and back, “I don’t know.”

Hoss gripped his arm, “Adam’s right, you couldn’t have done nothing else, it ain’t in you. If anyone ever earnt a son you did”

Joe looked at him blankly, “I don’t understand Hoss.”

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

Hoss broke in “And she approves of Nita, you know that Joe. Remember what you told me, she stood on the stairs on your wedding day and passed you over to Nita.”

Adam glanced up at Hoss in some surprise at that comment, but he could find out later, for now the only important thing was to help Joe. Joe wasn’t really capable of sensible thought, the day’s events had drained him, the labour short in terms of hours had felt like an eternity and he was beginning to pay the penalty. He shook his head slowly, “I don’t know.”

Adam smiled, “Try trusting us Joe, we do know, it’s alright. Marie will be happy that you have found joy. She loves you too much to begrudge you a moment’s happiness, you know that.”

Joe frowned and thought about that, maybe Adam was right and his guilt really an insult to Marie, to the loving and giving girl who had always put him first. In an odd way that just made him feel worse and his head was aching so badly, he didn’t know what to do. He buried his face in his hands, shivering violently. Adam met Hoss eye, they didn’t seem to be doing much good, Hoss shrugged, “Been a strain, he needs to break down.”

“Obstinate as ever.” Adam said fondly, “Come on Joe, try and relax. Take it easy old son, what you need is a long sleep and as you’ve told me on occasion you’re not going to get it until you’ve relaxed, got it out of your system.”

“I’m alright.” Joe insisted in a rather muffled voice and Hoss moved closer to him, “Liar little brother. Come on let it go, only us here.”

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

It was nearly half an hour later before Joe lifted his head and accepted the damp bandana that Hoss passed him. “I don’t know why.” He said apologetically, “Everything’s fine, even an easy labour and yet ….”

Adam grinned, “Stop apologizing Joe, you’ve been under a strain, after all you nearly fainted this morning. Best thing you could have done, ease the tension, it was what we wanted.”

Hoss nodded, “Of course. Now you need a good night’s sleep, Adam and I will look after your son.”

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

Joe knelt there, the half smile on his face reminding both his brothers of the way he’d watched Marie so often in those few short months, the first time they’d ever known him sit so still. They both grinned, glad to see him at peace but Joe felt so weak and exhausted that he had to ask Hoss for help to get to his feet and over to Cochise. Once mounted he turned to look at the Lake, very beautiful and peaceful in the moonlight and then at his brothers and slowly relaxing in the saddle he said, “I don’t think any man really deserves to be as lucky as we all are.”

His brothers weren’t arguing with that but Adam said, “All we can do is to try, where we can, to share just a little of it with others.”

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

Ben went over to pour out coffee as Adam got the brandies and asked quietly, “Alright?”
“Fine now Pa, just needs some sleep.” Adam passed Joe a brandy, “Get that down you and then bed.”

Joe nodded, “I think I’ll sleep now.” He yawned widely and Ben grinned, “Well I should hurry up or you’ll be asleep before you can even get to bed. Come on I’ll give you a hand.”

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

Hoss went in to join Adam and hovered near the cradle, “Joe will be fine now.”

“Sure, inevitable that there was some reaction. What was that about his wedding day, or is it private?”

“Don’t reckon he’d mind you knowing.” Hoss went and got himself some coffee before he carried on, then leaning on the mantelpiece, staring up at the painting of the lake, he told Adam what Joe had told him and why. Adam wasn’t particularly surprised, as best man he had been very close to his brother and had known the tensions, the odd changes in mood, sensed Joe’s memories. Adam thought about it for a minute and then smiled, “Our little brother was very lucky with both his wives.” He wandered over to the cradle and very gently touched the sleeping baby’s curly hair. “I don’t deserve it. Adam.” he shook his head.

Hoss was very serious, “I think you do, just like Joe and Nita said. Deserve it a hundred times over.”

“For what?”

“Too many things to say, over too many years. All the things we take for granted, Joe and me, never really say thank you. And more recent the way you accepted Nita, even argued me into accepting her. You were right as usual, she’s quite a girl and she makes Joe happy but there ain’t many men who’d have forgiven and forgotten all that bitchiness when she first arrived.”

“It didn’t mean anything.” Adam protested, “She was just on edge, not understanding us and having met her family, can you wonder at it?”

“Maybe, it still takes a big man to forget.” Hoss frowned and went to refill his glass. “While I’m at it Adam I’d like to say something that maybe has needed saying for too long. Easier not to sometimes in case it gets embarrassing.”

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

Adam stood stunned and speechless, he was very moved by his brother’s comment and that he had felt strongly enough to put it into words. For Hoss to talk about owing him seemed so untrue, anything he had done had been repaid ten times over in the friendship and help his brothers had given him since they were grown. For once in his life Adam just couldn’t find any words at all and he gave up the attempt just going over to his brother and hugging him for a moment. He broke away and poured himself another brandy, “I don’t know what to say Hoss, I ….”

“No need to say anything. Jest fer once I wanted to say thank you and Sue and I have one other request for you, if you’ll do it?” Adam looked up questioningly and Hoss grinned, “Will you be godfather for Johnny? We want you, Joe and Carole if she will.”

“You know I will brother, with great pleasure.”

“Fine, have to see if we can get this young man christened at the same time, rather nice way to celebrate Christmas Eve.”

“Yeah. Why don’t you get to bed Hoss, you look whacked. I’ll look after my namesake; I’ve got some thinking to do anyway before I’ll sleep.”

“You okay Adam?”

“Of course big brother, why not? I’ve been paid some of the biggest compliments any man could ever have, I guess I want to savour them.”

“You do that, they’ve all been earnt.” Hoss put his glass down. “I’ll leave you to blush in peace Adam, call me when you’re ready to settle I’ll take a turn with my nephew. Guess I wanted his arrival as much as Johnny’s, our little brother deserved him.”

Adam nodded and watched Hoss go out. For a long time he stood staring down at the baby, remembering so many things over the years, tragedy and joy, but never had the whole family known such fulfillment as they did now with young Adam’s birth, each and every one of them. In their joy they seemed to have grown even closer together. In the future, as in the past, there would inevitably be rows, but Adam was more confident than ever that whatever happened it would never affect the deep bonds of love between each member of the family and all the others, the girls included, although he’d never had much doubt. He felt warm and very much at peace at the reactions of his brothers and Nita’s gesture and he’d never felt further from sleep so he didn’t bother waking Hoss, lost in very happy memories of the past.

When the baby stirred, Adam walked him around talking to his nephew, dreams of the future for the whole family, thirteen of them now with doubtless more to come, but although it was supposed to be an unlucky number, Adam couldn’t believe it. This little baby would have all they could give him and they were fortunate to have so much to give. Anyway in many ways Marie was still part of their family, alive in their memories, as in a rather more shadowy man way for all but Ben, were that other Marie, Joe’s mother, Inger and his own mother.

The baby wasn’t particularly hungry and seemed quite content to listen to Adam talking softly, rocked in his arms as Adam planned the future, speculating to the uncomprehending infant as he wouldn’t have dared to do, even to Carole. He was very content, so wrapped up in the baby and his vision of the future that he didn’t even notice his father come in, unaware of the time passing so fast, he had no idea it was dawn. Ben stood watching his eldest son for a minute, savouring the expression on Adam’s face, then as his son noticed him he asked, “Have you been up all night?”

“I suppose so. I hadn’t noticed it was so late, or is it early?”

“You’ve been missing a lot of sleep recently.”

“I’m fine Pa, never needed that much.” Certainly Adam didn’t look or feel particularly tired, but Ben couldn’t help worrying, still unsure that Adam had fully recovered from his bad injuries and knowing just how little notice his son took of his physical condition. Ben went and fetched coffee and as Adam sat down with it, still rocking the baby, Ben asked, “Is anything wrong Adam?”

“Wrong?”

“You don’t usually stay up all night unless you’re troubled and I’m sure that Hoss offered to do his share.”

“Of course he did. No Pa, nothing’s wrong. I just had some thinking to do. I think I was paid two of the greatest compliments any man ever had yesterday; the only equivalent was Carole's promise to marry me. Guess I wanted to have time to think, to believe them.”

Carole had heard that comment as she came in with Anne and she kissed Adam before slipping into the chair next to him, “You said two darling, I know how you feel about Nita and Joe naming the baby, but what else happened?”

Ben was equally curious but Adam was embarrassed even with his wife and father and he bent his head down over the baby. “My brothers were determined to get me embarrassed, when we got back from the Lake, Hoss ….”

Adam was lost in memories of just what his brother had said and oblivious of them until Ben asked gently, “What did Hoss do?”
“Ridiculous really, when they’ve both done so much, such good friends.” Adam looked up and met his father’s eye. “Hoss said that it was only now he was faced with bringing up his own son that he realized how much he and Joe owed me and he reckoned it was time to say thank you. They don’t owe me anything Pa, in so many ways I owe them.”

“You were remarkably good with them as a youngster, I know I put a lot of responsibility on you. So many people spoke to me about it, just how well you handled the boys.”
“I only tried to help them as you helped me. It was really all your doing Pa.”

“However we worked it, it all seemed to work very well for us, probably doesn’t make any sense to talk about owing each other but I’m glad your brother wanted to thank you, I reckon you earned it.”

Adam blushed hotly and more to distract him than for any other reason, Carole asked “Was Joe alright last night? He was getting tense again.”

Adam frowned, “He was tired and confused, feeling guilty for being so delighted by the birth of his son.”

“Guilty?” Carole queried puzzled.

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

“I still don’t understand.”

“Very simple.” Ben went on, “If Marie had lived, Joe would never have had a child of his own, now he has and knows what it means to him, he felt disloyal.”

Carole looked horrified but seeing Adam nod, his father had read it exactly right, she said, “That’s so unfair.”

“All my sons are their own harshest critics.”

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

“He was sleeping like a baby himself when I looked in,” Ben agreed, “and that’s what he really needs.”

“I’ll make a forecast.”Adam grinned, “Once he’s been fed and checked on Nita and the baby, my little brother will be in such an exuberant mood that this will prove to be a day we won’t forget in a hurry.”

Ben wasn’t arguing against the likelihood of that and suggested that Adam pass over his new grandson and go have a doze to prepare for the fray. Adam wasn’t tired but he did take the chance to go and wash and change.

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

Ben laughed, “Getting overrun with children, six of them all under five.”

“Just wait until they grow up a bit Pa, if you think you’ve got problems now. Maybe even double in numbers if my brothers are going to keep up.”

“We’ll run out of laps.” Hoss complained but Joe giggled, “No problem brother, yours is big enough for all of them.”

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

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

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

Adam grinned, “Sure Joe, I’d have been disappointed if you hadn’t asked.”

Hoss said, “Reminds me I haven’t got round to telling you Joe, you’re elected to back Adam up as Godfather for Johnny. Reckon you’re gonna have a busy day on Christmas Eve Adam.”

Joe frowned, “I’m sorry, I don’t understand.”

Hoss in his turn looked slightly uncomfortable, “I ain’t pushing you little brother. If you want to give young Adam a day of his own that’s fine. Jest seemed sorta nice, christenings on Christmas Eve, time for babies, thought we might make it a joint occasion.”

Joe’s face gave Hoss his answer before Joe said a word. As he realized what his brother was getting at his face lit up, Hoss wanted the same as he did. In his delight Joe swung his big brother round, “I was going to ask you Hoss, just wasn’t sure how you’d feel. Seems so right especially with Will and Laura here too and as you say a day for babies.”

Hoss grinned, “That’s great Joe.”
Joe gripped his big brother’s arm, “One more thing. Nita insists. She could only give the baby two names and anyway noone else could live up to ‘Hoss’ as a name but she wants you as the baby’s second godfather and so do I. Not just because you’ve co-opted me for Johnny.”

“I know Joe, I’d be delighted.”

“Will Sue act as godmother?”

“Why not ask her? Of course she will, with great delight.”

Adam linked arms with his brothers, “Whole family is going to be busy. We’ll have to arrange a special celebration. I wonder what will be finished in town.”

Hoss frowned, “Don’t really want everyone out here, they’ll be out Boxing Day anyway and if’n we have them out on Christmas Eve, it sorta makes sense for them to stay over.”

“No.” Adam insisted, “We want Christmas Day on our own, as a family with a few close friends and relatives but not all those who’ll be around Boxing Day. I am not sharing Christmas Day with Jim Fair!”

Hoss grinned, “Noone will be staying if we don’t get the main house back soon, reckon that lot have moved in for life.”

“Pa was talking of going over and having a word but he can’t be rude. They are so fulsome in their gratitude, its derned hard to turn round and say it’s time they got out.”
Joe wasn’t even prepared to think about problems, not today and he laughed at his brothers, it would all sort itself out.

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

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

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

Jess was close to losing his temper but that would be unfair to everyone and he smiled as he pulled up a chair. “Just to talk. I wondered when you had last been in town?”
One of the other men signaled the angry man to be quiet, “What you getting at Jess?”
“José and I were in town today. There are several boarding houses with vacancies and even a couple of empty houses with more being built every day. We weren’t sure whether you realized. The Cartwrights have been very generous to you all and I’m sure you appreciate it. They don’t know we’re here but now Joe’s wife has had her baby, all of them are gonna want to get back to normal.”

“You saying we ain’t welcome here no more?”

“No I’m sure the Cartwrights wouldn’t say that but I am saying that it’s not necessary for you to stay any longer. It’s not that long until Christmas and they have a lot of guests coming. I’m sure they deserve a few weeks to sort themselves out; they’ve already done a hell of a lot for you and for the town in general. Don’t you think its time you stood on your own feet again?” Jess knew he was being blunt but they had decided that it was the only way.

The man, who had queried his presence initially, glared at him, “You’ve got a nerve, just a hired hand.”

“The Cartwrights are my friends. I’m Godfather to Adam’s youngest daughter and just because they won’t speak up for themselves we have to stand up for them.”
Before the man could reply one of the women spoke up, “You know he’s right. It’s been mighty comfortable here and we’ve sorta begun to take it for granted; but its Ben Cartwright’s home and we ain’t got no right to keep him out of it if’n it ain’t absolutely necessary.”

José smiled, “Thank you Ma’am, that’s all we mean. Mr Cartwright won’t ever say anything but to be cut off from his own books and things does cause a few problems.”
The men met each others’ eyes and one of them sighed but said, ”Okay you’re right, too good to last. The Cartwrights have done enough. We’ll go into town in the morning see what we can arrange, be out of the way in a few days.”

Jess put his cup down, “We’re not trying to push you out in a day or anything, just get some arrangements started. Thank you for being so reasonable, we’ll leave you in peace. “

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

Jess proved right it wasn’t difficult to arrange accommodation in town; the small houses Adam had designed weren’t exactly the Ponderosa but they were still more than adequate. Better than many of them had ever known, none of them were particularly rich. Two days later they had everything arranged and one of the men rode over to Adam’s house to tell the Cartwrights that they would be vacating the main house.

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

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

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

Nita was up and around, insisting that she felt fine, but for Joe’s peace of mind she had agreed to stay at Adam’s for two more days. Joe decided to take advantage of Carole’s presence, he could rely on her to look after Nita and his son while he went into town with Adam and his father, who had to attend another meeting the next day. Nita was quite happy with the idea and Carole promised to make sure she didn’t overdo things so Joe went along with an easy mind.

The three men made good time on the ride in but as the town came into view, Joe pulled up. The fire tower was basically finished and many of the houses were finished, at least the outer shells, so that from the distance the new town looked almost as big and bustling as ever. Joe shook his head, “Doesn’t seem possible in such a short time.”

“Marvelous what money can do.” Adam said dryly, but as they rode down into town, they saw many of the buildings were still only half finished. Before the meeting Adam went down to collect some telegrams and Joe went along with him to see if there was any response from Nita’s family. There was a large wad of telegrams waiting for them and the brothers decided to take them over to the new Palace Saloon to read, squabbling amicably over whose turn it was to buy the beer. Joe lost, unable to deny Adam’s insistence that he had been supporting Joe and his wife and child for weeks, so the least Joe could do was buy him a beer. Joe knew Adam was only kidding him but he came back with the beer to the table in the corner, bemoaning his fate only to find his brother wasn’t even listening to him. Adam was immersed in long telegram and Joe frowned, concerned “Bad news?”

Adam looked up and grinned, “No, quite the contrary. It’s from John Chance, their new partnership is proving very profitable but of course the weather has closed them down. He and Bill Davidson are curious to see how the town has been rebuilt.”

“Invite them for Christmas.”

“I was proposing to, I think John’s angling for the invite. I know I said we wanted a family Christmas but….”

“Oh come on, that pair are old friends, more than Meg and John, all of us enjoy their company.”

“Thanks little brother.” Adam moved onto the other telegrams, while Joe read the rather stiff congratulations from his in-laws. Adam passed over the telegrams from Will and John confirming their plans to arrive on the 21st and stay for a fortnight. Then suddenly Adam looked up in delight, “That’s marvelous. I’ll kill Dan he didn’t give me a hint!”

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

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

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

As Adam turned to stare at him, Hoss grinned broadly, “You know your trouble Adam you’re nervous. Wondering what the experts will have to say about your designs. You know they are real good and derned effective, you just think your gonna be embarrassed.”

Adam glared at him, “That’s not the point at all Hoss. It’s just going to be a waste of time. I have better things to do.”

“Oh yeah brother!” Hoss said in disbelief, “Think about it.”

Adam hurried, “I have things to do.” He went into the study, got out the contract he was working on and picked up his pen but he couldn’t concentrate and lent back in his chair, staring up at the painting of the Lake. Maybe his brothers knew him better than he knew himself. He had seen Joe nod in agreement and although he hadn’t really considered it, he realized that Hoss might well be right. Subconsciously he didn’t want to be around as experts judged his work, a lot less confident of their opinion than his brothers. If he had to be there he would welcome moral support from all his family. He put his pen down and went out. Seeing his brothers talking quietly over by the window, he went over to join them, “Okay. You two know me better than I know myself. Come along and protect me, maybe we can prevent anyone bringing me into it at all.”

“I don’t see why you shouldn’t take the credit.” Joe protested, but Adam grinned wryly, “For a start I should like to make sure they aren’t brickbats!”

The following morning the four Cartwrights, all dressed rather more formally than was their wont, headed into town for the official welcoming ceremony to the delegation of architects. They knew it included President Grant’s own representative as well as one Senator and two Congressmen, apart from the actual architects. An official luncheon was to be held in the hastily finished Washoe Club. Sharon as the new Senator for Nevada would be taking the chair and Adam was confident that he at least wouldn’t be including the Cartwrights in any laurels thrown around.
The official party collected at the station to meet the special train due in at 11.30 a.m. It wasn’t difficult to get Joe and Hoss included in the dinner, numbers were very much up in the air, not knowing just how large the arriving delegation was. The three brothers kept well back, talking quietly with some friends, leaving Ben to represent the family officially. However as the train drew in one of the first people off took all of them by surprise. It was Michelle Grandison, with an older man helping her down the steps. She spotted them and came over. Her husband ran a large building firm in Sacramento and after hearing her report he had pulled strings to get on the delegation as the representative from the Californian state capitol. Michelle introduced her husband and he took the opportunity to thank the Cartwrights for the aid given to his wife and her parents. Michelle was fascinated by all the changes in the town since she had seen it and at once pointed out the rows of houses, which Adam had just been starting when she left. Grandison was intrigued and shading his eyes against the bright light, he considered them. Joe said, sotto vöce, “That’s the end of any chance you had of hiding and I for one am not sorry. Adam glared at his brother but then he had to concentrate on answering some of Grandison’s technical questions. He wasn’t an architect but knew the problems of actually organizing a building project and the speed with which the houses had been erected intrigued him. Adam didn’t claim any special expertise, with the whole town burnt down everyone’s energy and all the supplies had been applied to the job of rebuilding before normal life could resume. It was the concentrated effort, which had really shown such fruit.

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

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

Adam did listen to Faulkner who was making clear the Commission’s terms of reference. They were interested in the speed of building, the low cost housing they had heard about and any new ideas in design, in a town where so much had had to be rebuilt at once. They also had two men along who were more interested in the way that they had coped in the immediate aftermath of the fire, the organization of help and the precautions for the future. They wanted to be able to send advice to other similarly vulnerable towns and making contingency plans for the future. It seemed reasonably sensible but whether anything but a lot of polite talk would result, Adam for one wasn’t convinced.

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

Ben took Faulkner around himself with two of the other senior architects, one from New York and the other from Washington at least temporarily. He started with the swiftly built low cost housing, not hiding his son’s part in the design and planning.
They were very impressed and went round an empty one, watching the finishing touches to it. Then they moved onto some of the more elaborate buildings in town, the Opera House nearly finished, the big new five storied International Hotel, still at a fairly early stage and some private houses. Three of the houses in particular took their attention but Ben made no comment. They were about to go back when the fire tower caught Faulkner’s attention. Ben explained its purpose and promised to get him the plans to look at. They were still discussing it as they went into the Bank. Joe and Hoss had also made their brother’s contribution very clear but Adam had avoided the subject. Clarke hadn’t said very much at first, although he did comment that the small houses seemed practical. Walking through the main residential street he snorted once or twice at the more ornate buildings but rather to Adam’s embarrassment he left one artist at Fair’s house and the other at MacKay’s, with a brief comment. “Bit different.” Then he ordered Adam to show him the fire tower. It was a fairly steep climb but Clarke made it at a good pace. He walked round the outside, ignoring the workmen and then moved inside. Darby came over to Adam, “Any problem?”
“None, this architectural commission from back East, come to see what we’re up to. How about you? Making progress faster than I expected.”

Before Darby could answer Clarke reappeared, “Is this the foreman?”

Adam introduced him and Clarke asked to see the plans. He studied them in silence for a minute and then queried one feature, looking at Darby, who just shrugged. “I’m only building it, why don’t you ask Adam he designed it.”

Clarke looked at Adam with sudden interest, “Did you, mmm, I’d like a copy of the plans.”

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

As everyone looked at him Adam stared down at his papers murmuring something about providing plans, but Clarke picked up the two sketches his artist had done and said in disbelief, “You did these and the fire tower and those terraces of low cost housing?”

Ben answered as Adam couldn’t, confirming his son’s work. Clarke considered them and then looked up at Adam, “Original, if you’d like to come east I can offer you a position in my firm.”

Adam smiled wryly, “No thanks. I have a ranch to run, architecture is just a hobby. I only did these to help out.”

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

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

"Impressive but someone said he was a fast gun.”

“It happens out here, all my sons have had to be fighters on occasion to protect ourselves.”

“Aren’t your other sons jealous?”

“Thank God no. Joseph is a great help to his brother both on legal detail and surveys as well as taking charge of our horse breeding programme, while Hoss is our expert on timber. We all do our share and it works well.”

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

Ben looked up at that, hearing the corner Joe had backed himself into and met his son’s eye. “We’ll have to consider that. You understand the houses are my sons’ private residences and we have had a great deal of disruption with the refugees from the fire. More important two of my daughters have had first babies in the last few weeks and ….”

Hoss interrupted, “Sue and Nita can cope Pa. If we went out after lunch tomorrow and returned to town for dinner, it wouldn’t be too big a problem for the girls.”

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

Adam had had enough for one day, he’d felt thoroughly embarrassed if rather flattered, so he sent the plans in with Jess including a covering note to his father, assuring him that nothing was wrong. He didn’t even want to discuss that day’s events with Carole and after a few minutes went and buried his nose in a book.
Ben was over early to collect his sons and while Adam was playing with the twins, he filled Carole in on the afternoon visit and the compliments paid to her husband. Like Hoss and Joe she thought Adam deserved the notice and even if he disliked it now, looking back he would appreciate informed comment as he had Bierstadt’s opinion.
She had no doubts that his designs were of a very high quality.

It wasn’t until they were on the way to town that Ben mentioned the visit that afternoon. Adam listened in silence but his family could see his lips tighten in anger, “Which of you had to go and open his big mouth?”
“I did.” Joe confessed, “but it didn’t make any difference the houses are famous round here. Anyway Grandison had heard of them from Michelle and was angling for a visit.”

“Alright. You invited them you entertain them, I’ll have no part of it” with that Adam kicked Blackie on ahead leaving the three of them looking at each other in consternation. Hoss said tentatively, “He can’t mean it.”

Ben sighed “I wouldn’t bet on it Hoss. I told you he wouldn’t like it.”

Joe was angry himself, “Well he’s going to get some credit for once even if he doesn’t want it.” Each in turn tried to change Adam’s mind without success and after a working lunch he disappeared up to the California to sort out a legal problem Jim Fair had been onto him about.

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

“They are very much his own designs, in town he had to compromise. I’ll just point out that he’s greatly attracted by Palladio’s ideas.” The two Easterners were frankly surprised that Ben had even heard of Palladio. All the Cartwrights had reverted to normal working clothes once the formalities were over and with guns slung on their hips it all seemed incongruous.

Ben took them past the main house, the long sprawling house ideal for its situation, although it could never transfer elsewhere. The cluster of barns, bunkhouses and corrals with men working around the place was a very clear testimonial to the Cartwright’s wealth and power. As the first house came into view, which was Joe and Nita’s, Ben pulled up and a hand came to take care of the buggy and the visitors were soon busily looking around, inside and out. Joe had gone to join Nita and his son to ensure that she wasn’t overdoing it. Nita insisted that she was fine and as much as Joe himself she felt Adam should have the credit he’d earnt so richly.

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

Most of the questions Hoss and Joe could answer, even the technical ones, they’d helped build the houses and been over the designs in minute detail with their brother. By the time the group returned to town most of them considered the younger brothers in a new light and were all enthusiastic about the designs. For few they were too simple but the majority couldn’t resist the harmony of the buildings and all of them wanted copies of the plans and sketches. Initial copies had been made at the house and more copies would be made in town.

Discussion was wide ranging as they went back and all three Cartwrights stored the best ones to tell Adam and Carole later. It was to be a working dinner and Adam couldn’t avoid it so the others had no need to pass on compliments at second hand. Adam was thoroughly embarrassed and threatened his family dire things under his breath but he did his best to keep things light. In a way he was pleased, he was very proud of his designs for the three houses and there was no denying the sincerity of the compliments. In fact he was offered jobs by most of the big firms, including three
offers of partnership and all manner of flexible working, short term working just in the winter, or designing at home and sending the finished plans east. Adam was very flattered but not at all tempted, He tried to explain that he couldn’t leave the wide open spaces that he was used to and that he was already deeply committed, his time fully occupied. They didn’t give up easily and although dropping it as work got under way, several were determined to talk privately later.

It was very late by the time they got free and could head home and all four were tired. Hoss settled on Chub, “Thank God they’re only here for two more days.”

“If you hadn’t wasted time at the ranch we could have been clear hours ago.” Adam complained.

“Nonsense.” Ben said briskly “They’d have talked until they were tired whatever we did. Anyway they deserved to see the best; you should be gratified by their reaction.”

Adam yawned, “At least I know I can get a job if Hoss and Joe go and give away the Ponderosa.” He grinned at his brothers who relaxed, knowing he was no longer cross with them.

The next two days were hectic although reasonably satisfying and Adam got used to turning down ever more lucrative job offers. He did use MacKay to point out that the Cartwrights were millionaires many times over and Adam wasn’t likely to be tempted by money. Unfortunately it didn’t help much, attention was just switched to the prestige of the jobs they were offering, the chance of fame. None of them seemed capable of believing that he actually wanted to stay in this cultural backwater, although a couple from California and Denver both emphasized that he would still be close to the big outdoors if he came into partnership with them. His brothers found it amusing and had side bets on what would be offered next but Adam was getting annoyed again and was glad when they got to the final luncheon. Adam had been quite happy to give them permission where they wanted to use his designs and it was only at Ben’s insistence that he had agreed to take payment and credit for them.
However he was very clear that anything more and any further commissions were out of the question.

There were a lot of speeches made at the luncheon but for once Adam had opted out and thrown the onus for speech making onto his father. Of them all the best received was Faulkner’s, an aspiring politician he had had more practice. He was adept at knowing what his listeners wanted to hear but this time he also had the advantage of believing what he was saying, of being sincere. Ben knew he’d never forget the speech and guessed that, despite his obvious embarrassment Adam wouldn’t either, certainly his younger sons were delighted.

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

Adam was greatly relieved when the party finally got on the train and left and he immediately collected Blackie and rode out to the Lake, needing to be alone for a while. He had been very sincerely complimented and he was glad that the experts liked his ideas, but he had felt so very awkward and he had a stinking headache.
Dan had been at the luncheon and he was proposing to print at least the final speeches in full. Ben had no real objection but Joe warned the newspaperman to keep out of Adam’s way for a few days if he did. Dan shrugged, “He deserves the praise.”
“Oh I’m not arguing about that, but it didn’t exactly stop him going brick red.”
Adam went home very late and made it absolutely clear to everyone that he didn’t want to hear anymore about it. Carole, Sue and Nita had been to the formal luncheon and the six of them had discussed it on the way home, so they dropped it seeing that Adam was on the verge of losing his temper. However late that evening, just before heading home, Ben dropped into the chair next to him as Adam sat studying his Inigo Jones book. Adam looked up ruefully, “A lot of compliments.”

“They were meant very sincerely and well deserved.”

“I guess so and I am pleased really, but very glad it’s over. I felt so awkward. Any money can go to the orphanage; they still have rebuilding to do.” Adam was quiet for a minute, “I suppose I am proud of all the nice things they said but none of it means one tenth of what my brothers’ said after Adam’s birth.”

“That’s because they are strangers, no compliments will ever mean as much as the delight all four showed on seeing those sketches because noone else is so important to you.”

“You’re right. I think I’m for bed, I’m tired, not slept too well the last couple of nights. Still it’ll all blow over in a couple of days now they’ve gone and I’m not gong back into town until it has!”

Ben laughed but he knew Adam was right, others would forget but he wouldn’t. In fact with the town well on the way back to normal the Cartwrights were able to settle to a more normal winter pattern. What errands did need doing in town, Hoss and Joe handled as they were both busy making arrangements for a large christening party at the Washoe Club on Christmas Eve. Thus it was nearly ten days later before Adam went back to town, to find most of the buildings on ‘C’ street apparently finished, although the hotel would be several months yet. The wider street didn’t seem to be helping much with traffic and if anyone had left town because of the fire it wasn’t exactly noticeable, the street as bustling and crowded as ever, if not worse.
Adam went to the Bank to collect some cash and while it was being made up he listened to the latest gossip. The main event in town was scheduled for that Saturday with the grand opening of the new Piper’s Opera House. Tickets for the show were already changing hands at a hefty premium and all those who couldn’t get in weren’t going to lose out entirely, as Piper was providing free champagne dancing in the streets and an elaborate firework display. None of it exactly went with Shakespeare, but Adam was well used to Virginia City and luckily so was Edwin.

Most of the company had already arrived in town and Adam was there to meet Edwin
and Jim. As Adam edged the buggy down to the railway station, he found the clerk in the bank wasn’t the only one talking about the opening and he wasn’t too surprised to see a large welcoming committee for the famous actor. Adam had had too much of the limelight recently and he pulled a barrel over against the station wall and made himself comfortable, well back in the shadows, to watch.

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

Edwin glared at him, “You might at least come.”

“Oh no, I have work to do and it’s nothing to do with me. I didn’t even know about it until I got to the station.” Even Jim slipped away with Adam and by the time they collected Edwin he was furious and started the journey to the house in icy silence.
Eventually catching the twinkle in Adam’s eye, it proved too much for him and he couldn’t help laughing, enlivening the rest of the journey with the odd mixture of pompous speeches and roughhouse planned for Saturday that he had been told about.
He had tried to suggest doing ‘Midsummer’s Night Dream’ as better fitted for the carnival atmosphere but Piper was insistent, it had to be ‘Hamlet’. A more incongruous set of celebrations were hard to imagine.

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

Each day Edwin had to go in for rehearsals but by evening all work was put away and the whole party congregated in one or other of the houses to enjoy each other’s company. On Saturday Adam left his father to bring Carole in and rode in early with Edwin and Jim. They hadn’t been gone long when two riders clattered into the yard, four days earlier than expected but very sure of a welcome. Carole came out with a broad smile to greet John Chance and Bill Davidson, laughing off their apologies for turning up early. Over coffee she said, “Adam was only saying last night that it was a pity you’d miss the opening of the theatre, after all you enjoyed the celebrations for the pipeline so much.”

She grinned wickedly as John protested, “That’s unfair Carole! My head aches just remembering that hangover.”

Carole laughed, “Don’t worry, Adam thinks it’ll be rather more decorous tonight and I’m sure that Edwin can get you two in. There’s nothing much outstanding in the way of work and it’s going to be a lovely long Christmas break this year. I think we’ve all earned it.”

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

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

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

Eventually the cast had to go and get ready but Piper wasn’t finished and after a toast to the success of the evening he went to start the outside entertainment. He had arranged fountains of champagne, a short prelude to the main firework display and dancing on the street, which he had arranged to board over temporarily. It wasn’t exactly the weather for outside festivities but although very cold it was at least dry. The town entered into the spirit of the occasion with a will and as more and more people gathered in the street outside the Opera house they generated their own warmth. Eventually Adam couldn’t resist temptation any longer and swung Carole out into the fray, regardless of her lovely white dress. She protested laughingly, “I’ll get filthy!”

Adam kissed her firmly, “You’ll still be the most beautiful woman here and anyway your hem won’t show in the box.”

Joe hesitated, looking at the crowd and then at Nita but she grinned, “Why not?”

Seeing both his brothers dancing Hoss said very formally, “May I have the honour?”

Ben watched amused as all three of his sons whirled their wives round the makeshift floor but he wasn’t left out long as Aleysha came up and invited him to dance. Nothing loathe Ben moved out on the dance floor and meeting his youngest son’s eye he grinned, “I’m not that old.”

“So I see, lovely partner.”

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

The audience was involved from the first minute and it wouldn’t really have mattered what the performance was like they were so determined to enjoy themselves. In fact Edwin and the rest of the cast were buoyed up by the audience and it was one of the best performances that Adam had ever seen his friend give. Everyone became deeply involved and at the first interval Ben looked round to see all thee girls still lost in the play and rather more surprisingly so was Joe. Hoss went to check on the babies while John and Bill managed to raise some coffee much to everyone’s surprise but it went down very well.

Ben smiled at his eldest son, “Very powerful performance, especially Edwin.”

“He’s at his best, responding to the audience.”

The rest of the play was if anything even better and the whole cast, but especially Edwin got a rapturous reception. Adam and Carole slipped backstage to congratulate him as he came of stage and even Edwin seemed moved by the audience reaction. The babies were both stirring and Edwin moved in with one of his colleagues to get changed, leaving Sue and Nita in peace to feed the babies. Hoss, Joe, John and Bill with many others were co-opted to help move all the chairs from the pit, the actual stalls hadn’t yet arrived, and with all the lights on and the doors full open, it would give an extra area for dancing. It would be mainly for the elite who had been to the show, but that was purely convention, no actual barrier would be present. For now everyone moved out for the major firework display. Adam got Carole settled in a good position and as Ben joined him standing behind her, Adam murmured, “If this lot set light to the town again I’m going straight home!”

“Don’t say a thing like that, even in fun.” Ben retorted in mock horror.

No risks were being taken and the magnificent display went down very well. As the dancing started up again Edwin came and collected them for a late supper. He was hungry now and very pleased with himself. For once the friends didn’t start arguing about the play, Adam just congratulated Edwin on the best performance he’d seen, although he did tease Edwin, it was going to be very difficult to follow that. Edwin wasn’t at all popular with the rest of the cast as he was intending to do MacBeth, King Lear and Romeo and Juliet over the next three days, before he repeated Hamlet. Adam wanted to know which of the plays he was only doing once and as it was King Lear, he booked tickets for that. He would go to the second performance of Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet. Laura liked the theatre and probably Meg and John would come too. The management had wanted him to do a performance on Christmas Eve but Edwin had pleaded a previous performance. Piper was so delighted that he had agreed to do the seven performances, that he accepted that, a big coup for his new theatre. For Edwin it was more important to accept the invitation that Joe and Hoss had given him, insisting that he join the christening party.

After their supper the whole party went back to the dancing and Edwin found himself the centre of an admiring crowd, all wanting to congratulate him. Since his brother had assassinated Lincoln he had always needed the reassurance of applause and the crowds of fans but eventually he had had enough and looked round for rescue. Seeing Adam and Carole he went over to join them and asked Carole to dance. She willingly agreed and Adam went to get a drink before finding another partner. Most of the time the Ponderosa party stayed on the inside dance floor but they were part of the town and without discussion, each in turn made token appearances outside either alone or with their wives. If alone they soon found partners and it was hard to turn down the proffered drinks. Joe was a little merry but firm about turning down anymore, even if they thought he was rude he had a prior commitment to his wife and child.
Nita seemed very happy, enjoying herself but as she sat feeding Adam well after midnight, she relaxed and looked very tired. Joe kissed her forehead, “I’ll go and fetch the buggy, and it’s time we went home.”

“I’m alright darling.”

“Sure but you’re very tired, so am I if it comes to that.” Joe had a quiet word with his father but Hoss overheard and came over, “Sue’s just gone to Johnny and I agree with Joe its time to go home.”

Adam and Carole were dancing but Ben interrupted to tell them they were going and Adam decided it would be nice to all go together. Edwin and Jim were more than ready and it didn’t take long to collect John and Bill. By the time Hoss and Joe were back with the buggies, Jess had collected Carole’s for Adam and the whole party was ready to head home. It had been a thoroughly enjoyable evening and they chatted quietly as they drove home but it was very late and they separated to go to their own homes and get some sleep. Edwin was still high on the applause and Adam joined him in the study for a nightcap, chatting over the night’s events.

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

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

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

Will and Laura were particularly anxious to see Adam. Ben had assured them that Adam was recovering fast but the story of his injuries had been terrifying. Meg was eager to show of her little daughter Elizabeth, she had wanted a child so much and her baby was very well behaved. Laura was also eager to see the new arrivals, they’d had all the news by telegraph but it wasn’t the same as seeing for yourself and they’d knew nothing about the problems with Anne’s birth.

With everything that had happened since Adam had totally forgotten about the fire and he was puzzled by the searching looks his cousin gave him. Shaking his head Adam didn’t worry about it in the bustle of getting everything loaded. It was the first time they had been able to travel so far by train and Laura was delighted. It had been a lot less tiring and the twins had been able to move around more freely and fretted less.
Adam lifted the twins up into the buggy next to Joe and then turned to help Laura in, only to find her studying him anxiously. Whatever was wrong the station was not the place to investigate, so he kissed her cheek and helped her up while Will finished tying the luggage on. Adam got Peggy mounted and they led the way out.
John and Meg were fascinated by all the changes in the town and Hoss was busy explaining just what part they had played. Will took a swift look around but then turned to Joe, “Just how is Adam now? Lifting up the twins like that, should he?”
Laura was equally worried but Joe grinned, “Relax both of you. I know Pa was still worried about him when he came to San Francisco but that was months ago, he’s fine. Quite badly scarred of course and I think it’s still a little tender if anything hit his back, but on the whole its given up worrying him. He doesn’t even think about it and he can do as much as he ever did.”

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

The trip to the house seemed over before it was possible and with everyone gathered at Adam’s to greet the new arrivals it was chaos for a few minutes. The men moved all the luggage up to the guestrooms while the five women gathered round the four babies to inspect the newcomers, all talking at once. Laura was particularly struck by how like Mark as a baby young Adam was. She still loved her one time fiancé and knew him better than any other outsider so she knew just how much his sister-in-law’s gesture would have meant to him. By the time the men came back down Ben was organizing coffee while Carole cuddled her cousin’s daughter, Meg had Johnny, Laura had Adam, while Nita was holding Anne and Sue had Marie who didn’t want to be left out. The two sets of twins were considering each other very solemnly much to the adults’ amusement. Mark and David were very puzzled by the two identical little girls.

Adam went over to his sons and much to Will and Laura’s surprise he introduced Eve and Dawn, quite correctly without any hesitation, despite the gap of nearly a year since he’d seen them. Mark frowned, “But Daddy they look the same.”

“I know Mark it is difficult but you’ll learn to tell and you can always ask. They are twins like you and David but it sometimes happens that twins look just the same, identical, we call them. Why don’t you and David take Eve and Dawn up to your playroom and show them your toys.”

Mark looked at his brother and without discussion the little boys made up their minds and each took one of the girls by the hand and led them upstairs. Laura couldn’t resist giggling at the sight but Will turned to his cousin “How on earth did you tell them apart? Meg here sees them most days and she still gets them confused and its months since you’ve seen them.”

Adam shrugged, “I don’t know Will. I’ve never had any trouble. Eve is somehow quieter than Dawn.” He grinned, “Anyway I’m getting very experienced with children of all shapes and sizes, we seem to be collecting them.”

“Nicely rounded family of your own, two of each.”

“I know and I’m quitting while I’m ahead, no more.”

“Why?” asked Laura, surprised by this change in attitude, “Was there a problem with Anne?”
Adam moved over to his daughter and stroked her head, not answering, “I think I need some more coffee.” He disappeared into the kitchen and Laura looked over at Carole, “I’m sorry wrong question obviously, I didn’t know.”

“My fault.” Joe said “I should have filled you in on the way home but with the fire and everything it seems a long time ago.”

Carole said, “Go ahead Joe, I’ll get Adam to help me move the cot for Elizabeth into Meg’s room.”

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

She nodded and wiped her eyes, “Of course and now we are here to celebrate Christmas and enjoy ourselves.”

“To say nothing of getting a dose of culture.” moaned Hoss at the prospect of the next two days. Jim laughed and as Laura looked up puzzled he said, “Tomorrow and Friday, Adam has a box at the new theatre. MacBeth tomorrow and we’re finishing with Romeo and Juliet, which reminds me. It’s about time we got t town or we’ll be late for this evening’s show.”

Laura was delighted and ignored Will’s groan. Hoss laughed at his cousin, “You should worry I’ve been twice this week already.” Sue punched him unconcerned, she knew that if Hoss really didn’t want to go he’d have said. Ben and Adam would have been perfectly adequate escorts.

Edwin refused to budge until he’d seen Adam and Ben went to fetch his son, explaining briefly that Edwin was worried by what Joe had said. Adam hurried down and grinning at Laura and Will, he went through to reassure his old friend. Edwin put the empty glass down and glared at Adam, “You go from one lot of trouble slap bank into the next, every time.”

“Sure but I get out of it too! Look round Edwin, all of us including the babies are fit and well, nothing to worry about.”

“That’s why you suddenly disappeared I suppose?”

“Memories, just memories. You know as well as I do that, coming unexpectedly, they can hurt. Soon passes. I have everything I ever wanted Edwin, all the people who mean most to me are here for Christmas. My brothers have their own families, Pa’s fit and well and as Will said I have a nicely rounded family of my own.”

Edwin relaxed, “I guess you do have everything. Okay Adam I’ll stop fussing and get to town before Jim breaks a blood vessel.”
The two plays went off very well and Edwin provided a supper after the last performance for the cast and his friends, which everyone enjoyed, but Hoss and Joe were only really concerned with the christening the next day. They had been making the final arrangements that afternoon, determined that everything would be perfect, determined to make it a day to remember. They’d given a lot of thought to the invitation list, limited by the numbers who could be fitted into the Washoe Club, but both were determined have their friends there, even if it wasn’t diplomatic. They had made one concession to tact, asking MacKay and Fair with their wives, even though they were still annoyed at their whole attitude over the Bank’s failure. Thus quite a number of hands were surprised to get an invitation, not just Jess and José but Jack Catfish, Stevens and several other men, who had proved to be good friends and whom they had relied on that year. In fact they had very few disagreements over the list.
On the Saturday Roy had offered the use of his house so that they could feed and change the children before the service at 3 o’clock. With a bit of a struggle the whole party were on their way to town in good time, Joe busily organizing them much to Adam and Carole’s quiet amusement. For once Adam was actually driving the surrey to give Carole a hand with the children. Ben had the twins in the back and Adam contrived to drive with Marie on his lap while Carole held Anne.

Joe and Hoss had taken the other two surreys with Laura, Meg and the four girls to transport, to say nothing of Sue, Nita and the babies with changes of clothing for all the little ones. Edwin and Jim were using Carole’s buggy while John and Bill rode. Hoss had somehow found himself loading all the luggage and as he complained, it looked more like a fortnight’s holiday than an evening in town. By some miracle, despite rushing around at Roy’s at the last minute and the mess they’d had to leave for later, the whole family was in church at ten to three with all of the children neat and tidy momentarily at least. The two sets of twins were getting on famously, the boys although younger were on home ground and very advanced for their age and they were firmly in charge. They were busily telling Eve and Dawn what would happen, much to the amusement of the nearby adults. Only about half of those who would be joining them for the meal and party in the evening were actually attending the church, but for Hoss and Joe it was the important part, even if most of their time had been used arranging the party. They were both in their own way religious, not the outer forms of religion, but the faith and trust in God which had supported them so often in extreme danger. The actual church ceremony was very much a family affair,
with the other two brothers acting as Godfathers and Carole with Sue as Godmothers. As they brought the two babies to God the family wasn’t aware of anyone else apart from the Vicar. Ben was looking after his eldest son’s children with some help from Laura and yet he was very involved in the simple ceremony round the font, feeling warm at the evident closeness of all his family.

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

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

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

Everything went very smoothly, the difficulties of the new building had slowly been ironed out and the staff had got used to it. With plenty of warning of numbers and the menu required they rose admirably to the occasion and the brothers hadn’t spared any expense. Without being ostentatious the food was excellent and the drink top quality with plenty of choice in each. Everyone wanted to help the Cartwrights celebrate, all old friends and all remembering very clearly the tragedy which had robbed Joe of a wife and child so swiftly four years before. The two brothers were both so obviously pleased with themselves and with everything that had happened that they dominated proceedings, despite the presence of the famous actor fresh from his successful week at the Opera House. Sue and Nita were almost continually by their husbands’ sides and they weren’t left out. Late in the evening as Edwin whirled Carole off to the dance floor, Adam gravitated over to his father standing watching, nursing a brandy, “Very much my brothers’ day. I’ve seldom seen them both so happy.”

“I know, I’ve just been watching them and the girls. It’ll soon be Christmas Day, we’ll have to break up the party.”

“To be continued with the closest friends tomorrow and virtually everybody on Boxing Day.”

“Mmm. Do you know what I’d like to do as we are in town anyway?”

Adam smiled at his father, “Go back to church for the midnight service.”

Ben was surprised to find himself so easily read and then laughed at himself for his surprise; he should be used to his eldest son. Adam said musingly, “I think it would round the day off nicely. We have so much to thank God for this year. I’ll see what Carole says but I’d like to come with you.”

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

Ben felt slightly guilty as the party broke up rapidly but his youngest son came over with his arm round Nita who was holding their sleeping son. “This is a gorgeous idea Pa. Fitting ending to a day which wasn’t just a celebration but in some way a thank you to God for his mercy and a dedication of Adam to all you brought us up to believe.”

Ben was much moved and seeing Hoss nod in agreement, he linked arms with his younger sons, “We’re all so very lucky.”

If the Vicar was surprised to see the family back he didn’t show it and their strong voices were particularly welcome on the beautiful Christmas carols which surrounded the communion service. All seven went together to take communion and seeing the three girls kneeling next to each other, all holding a baby, the Cartwrights weren’t the only ones to have to choke down a surge of emotion. It seemed so fitting, at this the service to commemorate the birth of Christ so many years before.

As they rode home Hoss drove with Sue next to him, Joe squeezing in between Nita and Carole in the back seat while Ben and Adam rode close one either side. Adam began softly to sing ‘Silent Night’, the others all listened in silence, enjoying his rich brown voice but then they all joined in on other favourite carols. Then, just before Ben turned off to leave them, he asked “Sing ‘Silent Night’ again Adam, it fits so well just now.” Indeed as they looked around in the clear moonlight they seemed to have the world to themselves, their ranch so very beautiful. This time Adam didn’t sing so softly, using the full power and depth of his voice, but its tone was always so very melodic and as he finished the last notes seemed to hang in the air. Nita was crying very softly on Joe’s shoulder but she insisted that it was just because she was so very happy. The party split up and headed home to get a few hours sleep.

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

In fact Ben hadn’t been able to sleep much and with the house so quiet he decided to have a cup of coffee and go straight over to Adam’s. Hop Sing had taken all the presents over the previous day and Ben knew that despite the early hour he would be working with Kam Su to make everything perfect for his family. Ben was over a little after six and found Adam washed, shaved and dressed but still rather blearily drinking coffee and attempting to wake up. The fires were lit, the decanters full, glasses shining and piles of presents threatening to topple over all round the tree. Adam wasn’t surprised to see his father, “Merry Christmas Pa and very many more of them.”

Ben smiled, “At one time this year I was so sure that I wouldn’t see this.”

“We were all scared but you’re too good a fighter and at least it can never recur.”
Adam yawned and refilled his cup. Ben asked, “Did you get to bed at all?”

“For a couple of hours, got talking to Edwin. I’m beginning to wish I hadn’t bothered, still I’ll wake up soon.” Adam was a truer prophet than he knew. He’d barely finished speaking when a babble of excited voices came from the stairs as both sets of twins and Marie ran down to join them. They were all for attacking the presents at once but accepted Daddy’s ruling that they must wait for all their Uncles and Aunts to arrive.
Carole and Anne, Meg and Elizabeth were next down, rather sleepily and more interested in coffee than presents.

By seven-thirty everyone was up and round the breakfast table and long before they had finished Hoss, Sue and Johnny had arrived with Joe’s family not far behind.
Adam went up to call Edwin, not admitting to him that it was an hour ahead of schedule, but it wasn’t fair to make the children wait too long.

The babies were all far too young to understand and Peggy was trying hard to stand on her dignity but the other five children were so excited and delighted with everything that they were a real joy to watch. Adam perched on the arm of Carole’s chair watching her help Marie unwrap a doll from Joe; he looked up and happened to catch his father’s eye. “Christmas belongs to children. However much thought we put into presents for each other and however delighted we are, there’s nothing like the joy of a child.” Ben wasn’t arguing, none of the adults has even touched their presents yet. None of them were short of anything and it was increasingly difficult to find special gifts, but the children were different.

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

In fact all of them were well pleased with the varied selection of books, clothes and oddments they received. This year it was definitely Joe’s turn to do the unexpected. He had managed to get hold of a particular antique gun for his father’s collection, which Ben had long hankered after. For his brothers he had found two pairs of very beautiful glass statuettes, from a short-lived millionaire who had lost everything in the stock market collapse. The four were fairly similar but different in style, the taller more willowy pair he gave to Adam. The statuettes seemed to shimmer in the light, almost as though the figures were moving. None of them had seen anything quite like them before and both Hoss and Adam were delighted as they made very clear.
They had barely finished opening presents when Hop Sing was ordering everything to be moved from the table and Adam turned his attention to sherries for all who wanted, even allowing the twins a tiny glass of watered down sherry to their delight at being like the big folks. Everyone pitched in to help and in a remarkably short time, the rubbish was in a big bag, everything piled up by the walls and the table laid ready for Christmas dinner. Hoss grinned, “Amazing what hunger does for you.” Then as Johnny started to cry, the grin disappeared and consternation spread across his face. He picked up his son, “You can’t be hungry, you were only fed two hours ago.”

“That never stopped you being hungry big brother.” Joe pointed out and Hoss shook his fist at his brother. Johnny stopped crying now he’d got attention, he wasn’t hungry just awake and he had no intention of being put down. Hoss gave way to his son and grinned at Adam, “Maybe it’s a good thing I got so practiced eating one handed with your brats.”

“I can’t repay the favour, I’m carving.”

“You were always good at finding excuses.” Hoss commented but holding the baby in one arm, didn’t seem to affect the amount or the speed with which he ate. By the end of the meal, Anne and Adam had caught onto an obviously good idea and both Joe and Adam had joined Hoss, managing one handed. Elizabeth slept peacefully but as Ben said, she wasn’t a Cartwright and maybe knew how to behave herself!

The adults sat back during the afternoon, overfed and lazy watching the children play.
Even Peggy had come off her high horse and inveigled Joe, Nita and her father into a complicated game she’d been given. She had sole possession of the rules and as Joe complained kept altering them to suit herself, but none of them really cared.
Joe and Hoss both decided to help when it came to bath time and Ben went up to watch in amusement, as his sons got their orders on what to do. Joe in particular got very wet but he was grinning happily at the tiny mite kicking in the water, his son. Hoss found it rather easier, Johnny seemed more cooperative and his hands were bigger to handle the slippery baby.

It seemed very quiet when the children were put to bed, all tired out and asleep before their fond parents left the room. Adam stood watching his four, his arm round Carole, “It’s been a day to remember darling, we’re so very lucky.”

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

Carole was taken aback, “Why suddenly now?”

“Just seeing all my relatives here, your parents haven’t even seen the children, it seemed unfair.”
“I haven’t complained.”

“Maybe you should have done. What do you think?”

Carole thought about it for a minute but then shook her head, “No it would be hard on the children, especially the twins. What I will do if you are happy about it, is invite my parents to come and stay for a while during the summer when you’re busy. At our expense.”

“You know they’d be very welcome if that’s what you want.”

“It’s what I want.”

Adam hesitated a moment but then he said, “It’s fine by me but if it isn’t just the children, there’s nothing to stop us going east for six or seven weeks. It should be very quiet after Christmas, nothing to hold me here. I think we’ve even had our share of emergencies for a while.”

“No.” Carole said firmly, “”Even if I forget the children I don’t really want to leave home at the moment. It‘s been a hectic and worrying year, I just want a quiet few weeks at home just us.” Adam relaxed at that, delighted with her reaction, it was all he really wanted and he pulled her close.

However Adam’s suggestion had made both his brothers think and Joe was the first
to take up the idea, “How about you Nita? Young Adam is easy to travel with at the moment, you must have friends in New York and as Adam says there’s nothing to tie us to the ranch for the next couple of months. Would you like to take a trip east?”
Nita gave him a big hug, “Thanks for the offer darling but there’s nothing in New York worth a tenth of the view from that window. You’ll be busy again in the spring. I’m like Carole I just want to be with you and our son in our own home. I still find it hard to believe I’m part of this beautiful land and I don’t want to leave it, not even for a few weeks, not yet.”

Joe’s eyes lit up with delight, he’d been so worried that she wouldn’t adapt and yet of all the girls she had come to feel as strongly about the land he loved as he did and he kissed her.

Hoss met Sue’s eye and she grinned guessing what he was going to say but in fact Hoss surprised her. “Adam and Joe are right and they could do my share for a while, even come spring. I know they wouldn’t mind.”

“What are you getting at darling?”

“I’ve never met your parents; maybe we ought to take Johnny on a trip over to Ireland. Adam and Carole went with the twins where they were very young and he’s a good baby. Take you back home for a visit and let me see if it’s as pretty as that picture.”

“It would take too long.”

Adam broke in, “Hoss is right, the three of us can manage and you’ve earnt a trip if you want to go.”

Sue smiled at the three men, she had no doubts that each of them would work themselves into the ground to ensure that the trip was possible and for a minute she toyed with the idea. It was more than ten years since she’d been back to Ireland or seen her parents, brothers and sister. She still kept in touch with regular letters, maybe four to six a year but she found it very hard to remember exactly what they looked like. She tried to imagine going home but it didn’t mean anything. She was already home, her family had never been close, not like the one that she was part of now. Certainly the scenery at home had seemed lovely but she had a shrewd suspicion it would seem very ordinary after the Ponderosa. She wondered if she could tempt her parents to leave home and travel half way round the world. Hoss sat watching the various reactions chasing themselves across her face, but he couldn’t predict her decision. Eventually she put her arms round his neck, kissed him, “I love you Hoss.”
Hoss kissed her soundly but then pulled away slightly, “Yeah, well I know that pet but it ain’t exactly an answer. Do you want me to book a cabin over to Ireland?”

“No. I will write and try to get my parents to come for a visit like Carole but I don’t want to go back. Maybe one day but I won’t take any risks with Johnny.”

Carole looked up at that, “It was just bad luck Sue. David and I could have caught diphtheria here just as easily.”

“I know that but you had Joe along to help. If anything happened, then here we have the whole family. When he’s over a year, maybe I’ll pluck up the courage. Anyway Johnny is only part of the reason. I’m like Nita, I’ve found a home at last, security and safety. I guess I need a while to believe in my luck before I venture into the outside world, I’ve seen enough of that.”

Ben poured himself a brandy and moved over to the mantelpiece, shaking his head in disbelief. “I’d like to make a toast.”

Most of them had a drink of some description and Adam refilled a couple of glasses. Ben waited until Adam had settled back again with Carole on his lap and then he said, “Christmas day with family and friends is hardly the time for speeches but I can’t just ignore what has been said. So many people have sympathized with us on occasion, stuck out in the wilderness, in a cultural backwater, fighting for survival and automatically in their minds being reduced to savages. None of you here feel that way or you wouldn’t have gathered here for Christmas. Maybe Nita’s family have been the most outspoken about all the drawbacks and I’ll admit over the years I have worried slightly whether my sons would find the sort of women that they could fall in love with, who would also accept this land. I think it’s very obvious that all of them have been very lucky and chosen very wisely. I had hoped for acceptance but we have so much more. I believe this ranch means as much to Carole, Sue and Nita as it does to me and my sons, which is more than I could have ever dreamt. We are so very lucky and I’d like to propose a toast to my three beautiful daughters To Carole, Sue and Nita.”
Everyone joined in that very willingly while the three girls blushed, but Ben went over and kissed each one. He was very fond of all of them and so thankful that his sons had all found such good wives.

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

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

The party had become an institution and nearly all the usual people were there, mainly back from wherever they had taken refuge after the fire. It had long been accepted that the hands join in, bringing any girls that they wanted and if the Cartwrights were considered eccentric, they’d earnt the right. Even in the large main house and with dancing in the yard and in the barn it was crowded, with nearly 250 people around but all of them were enjoying it. Just occasionally Ben had a pang, missing Beth his partner at so many Boxing Day parties but with so many friends around there wasn’t much time to miss her.

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

Ben shrugged, he didn’t know but it was fairly obvious that something was as Will, grinning broadly, began passing round drinks to anyone without one. Joe and Hoss had both spotted it too but Joe got a dusty answer from Will and they gravitated over to Adam and Ben with all three girls, just what Roy wanted all the Cartwrights together.

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

Roy gestured at the boxes, “One of a real good brandy and one of French champagne. The other case is whisky for the bunkhouse and there are two more on the wagon. Still we don’t need it right now and the toast is simple. Very many thanks and all good fortune in the year ahead to everyone on the Ponderosa. Virginia City is damned lucky you’re here.”

Everyone joined Roy very enthusiastically with ‘hear, hear’ and cries of ‘good luck’ resounding around the room. The four Cartwrights were completely taken aback, it was so unexpected and it meant so much. Carole went and poured two brandies and passed them to Adam and Ben as the cheers went on and on. “One of you is going to have to say something.”

Adam shook his head, swallowing hard, “I can’t.”

Ben took the brandy and downed it in one, Carole was right someone had to answer. He lifted his hand for quiet and as everyone stood grinning at him, he put out his hands in a gesture of despair at finding the right words. “I really don’t know what to say, except that we all appreciate very much your kind words and we will appreciate the drinks. If we’ve helped Virginia City, then it’s only fair, we’ve had help from town when we’ve needed it. We have all prospered together and will I hope continue to do so. That’s the way it should be between friends. Now I think that’s enough speeches, we’re here to enjoy ourselves so let’s get on with it” He signaled the band to start up again as the cases were dragged over to the wall. Dan and Roy came over to join the Cartwrights and Ben mopped his face, “I ought to thump you Roy, springing that on us.”

Roy grinned, “Needed saying Ben, jest for once, even if did make you all go scarlet. I swear you’d rather face a hail of bullets than a few words of thanks.”

Joe grinned, sipping a brandy, “Same reaction Roy, feel like running for cover. Looks like a real nice brandy.”

“Of course it is.” Doc said as he joined them, “I enjoy my brandy I cadge here so we couldn’t provide an inferior quality.”

Roy said, "Don’t know what you want to do about drink in the bunkhouse but we wanted to thank the men too, they all worked damned hard.”

“It’s not usually allowed but we’ve always turned a blind eye round Christmas and New Year and number one bunkhouse can do as it likes anyway. I trust José to keep an eye on things there. They all looked very pleased, I’m glad that you included them. Not that I think any of us really deserve it. In a catastrophe everyone helps out as best they can.”

Dan shook his head, “That’s just it Ben, you do but not everyone. A lot turn their backs if they aren't involved and a lot more only help themselves. That’s why, as Roy said, for once we felt we had to say thank you.”

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

“No I shall leave it for tonight. In fact it’s such a lovely night I thought I’d take a ride once everyone has settled. It’s been quite a day and I shan’t sleep yet.”

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

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

At the point they all dismounted and tied up the horses. Joe went over to kneel by Marie’s grave while his father went to Beth’s and his own Marie’s. Hoss met his eldest brother’s eye, “Guess I’ve been lucky, never had to bury anyone particularly mine, several I’ve loved but not a wife or a child.”

“I don’t think I want to remember that tonight, Hoss. Come on lets go up to the point. We have so many blessings to count that the few sorrows do fade in time.” Adam put his arm round his big brother’s shoulders and they stood close together watching the Lake so very lovely in the moonlight. Hoss smiled, “Funny I was so worried when you first got married, didn’t want my life disrupted, it seemed enough the four of us.
Guess I didn’t know what I was missing, didn’t dare let myself think about it. Now we’re all married, all fathers and yet in some strange way I think we’re closer than we’ve ever been.”

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

Joe said “For someone who claims to be bad with words Hoss, you manage to put your finger on it every time. Maybe it’s only now that we have our own children that we can really appreciate just how lucky we’ve always been, just how much Pa did for us all.” He grinned affectionately at his father, “Guess it’s the day for saying thanks Pa, not that there’s any real way. I’m still the baby here so I have to thanks to all three of you, but it has to be you mainly Pa. I just hope I’m as successful with my son.”
Ben looked from one to another of his sons, squeezing Joe’s shoulder, “No need for thanks, except maybe to God, we are so very lucky. We have all this beauty and most important each other, with wives and children who are all fit in so well. Sometimes we seem to get more than our share of trouble, you’ve all been hurt in many ways but God has never deserted us. When we can stand here like this, knowing the next generation is sleeping peacefully on the Ponderosa, it doesn’t seem possible any four men could be so very fortunate.”

None of his sons knew how to answer that and for several minutes the four men stood in silence, very close together, so aware of the presence of those they loved and the beauty of the Lake as it shimmered in the moonlight, typifying the land they’d made their own. It was very late and they’d all had several long days but none of them were tired, just conscious of great peace and contentment.
Joe broke the silence, not even realizing he was speaking aloud, the psalm which had so often run through his thoughts ever since Marie died, seemed so very fitting.
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want,
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures,
He leadeth me beside the still waters,
He restored my soul,
He leaded me in the paths of righteousness for his names’ sake,
Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil for thou art with me
Thy rod and thy staff comfort me,
Thou prepareth a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;
Thou anointest my head with oil,
My cup runneth over
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life
And I shall dwell in the House of the Lord forever.

Adam smiled at his youngest brother, “My cup runneth over.” He nodded slowly, “It’s strange how some moments you know you’ll never forget. A lot, sorrow and happiness merge into the past but some things remain ever clear in your mind’s eye. This Christmas with the christening of my godsons has thrown up more than its share of such memories. It just seems so right that the four of us should end it here, together, in our church.” The other three knew exactly what he meant and all four tried in their own ways to than God for his mercy, so very conscious of the closeness of all tat they loved. Adam said, “Joe quoted the psalm, there’s another piece I love.
To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven,
A time to be born and a time to die,
A time to love and a time to hate,
A time of war and a time of peace.
It goes on I know that there is no good in man but for a man to rejoice to do good in his life and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. Someone once said, ‘To those to whom much is given, from them much is required.’ and noone has been given more than us. All we can do is try and fulfil the second part.”

Ben smiled affectionately at all his sons, “You all do, that why I’m so very proud.”
His sons were equally proud of him and Adam said it for them all, “We can only act as you brought us up to act Pa. I looked up that quote Hoss came out with. Despite all the troubles and problems, with doubtless more to come. but we can face the future together because I think we’ve all found that peace of God which passeth all understanding.”

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

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