Note:  This was my first story-please forgive any punctuation errors.

    The clock on the bureau chimed 11:30. Little Joe Cartwright flung back the covers and crawled out of bed, swearing softly when his feet hit the cold wooden floor. He padded over to the door to his room and listened for any voices close by. Hearing none, he returned to his bed and shoved two pillows under the pale blue bedspread, molding them with his strong hands to vaguely resemble a person sleeping. Satisfied with the result, he pulled his blue and white striped nightshirt over his head and stuffed it back in a drawer. Clad in only his dark green pants and socks, he walked to the window and pulled back the heavy velvet draperies and peered outside.

There was a half-moon, enough to guide his way but not enough to shed too much light on his escape. Pulling his black leather boots on, he smoothed his pants legs down over the shaft of the boots. He slid on a white cotton shirt and buttoned it about halfway up, then tied a green bandana around his throat. He crossed to the bed and slipped on his new green jacket that his friend Steve had picked up for him in Carson City last week. He grabbed his new black hat from its hiding place in his bottom drawer and pulled the string down from its place tucked up inside the crown. He put it around his neck so the hat hung down his back. He buttoned the bolero jacket around his waist, pulled his shirt collar up and he was ready. Joe silently eased the well-oiled window sash up, and poked his head out into the darkness. It was a chilly night with the remains of winter still left in the air. A perfect evening for some fun in Virginia City away from family ties.

He placed one hand on the windowsill and put his feet through the window, easing himself out until he was sitting on the ledge. He turned around and slid down the wall until his toes felt the narrow ledge four-foot below the window frame. Still holding the frame above, he turned around till his back was against the wall and carefully flipped his new hat to the front so it was hanging down his chest. He eased himself along the narrow ledge one step at a time with his arms fanned out against the wall for balance. Taking a slow easy breath, he chanced a glance beneath him and saw the uneven jagged rocks placed against the frame of the house below. For the hundredth time he cursed the Paiutes, for when the house was built Ben had made it into a veritable fortress to curb the Indian attacks. The rock pile beneath his window was to prevent access to the second floor. Unfortunately, it also did a pretty good job of preventing the very thing he was doing. He inched his way along the ledge and was relieved when his left foot reached the roof of the porch. He carefully dropped to his knees and crawled across the cedar-shingled roof, taking extra care when he actually passed beneath Adam's window. Joe hadn’t heard his oldest brother come home, but his business in San Antonio should be done by now and he was expected any day. When he reached the edge of the roof he lay face down. After listening a moment, he cautiously peeked over the roof to make sure the coast was clear. Satisfied that no one was around; he stared at the back door of the house for a few moments to make sure no one was about to come out. When he saw no one, he jumped from the roof, rolled over, sprang to his feet and ran to the bushes all in one smooth continuous motion.

As he sunk behind the low growing jicama bush, the sound of the back door of the house opening froze him in his tracks. Little Joe’s blood ran cold. He crouched with his back to the ranch house; his eyes tightly closed and prayed he hadn’t been seen. If he got caught he didn't even like to think of the consequences. Pa and his brothers had no inkling that he was able to get out of his room without sneaking down the front stairs.

A creak of protest from the pine boards that served as the floor of the back porch drifted on the cool night air to where Joe was hiding, followed by two voices.

"Do you think winter is over Pa?" Hoss said shoving his hands in his pockets. The middle Cartwright son hated the long winters, they wore on his easy-going personality.

"No, I can still sense snow in the air. A couple nights away, but it’ll be here. I just hope Adam gets back soon, in case it gets too deep," Ben said as he leaned on the railing of the porch.

Hoss nodded. "Think spring is far off?"

Shaking his head, Ben laughed. "I’m afraid my weather predicting doesn’t go that far son."

Hoss pulled his heavy corduroy jacket closer around his large frame and looked up at the night sky. "Well, it’s going to be a cold one tonight for sure."

Ben nodded and took a puff from his pipe. "I agree. Lets go back inside and sit by the fire."

"Yes, sir," Hoss said, putting his arm around his father as they walked inside.

Little Joe looked up at the pine trees, their wide branches reaching toward the moonlit sky and blew on his hands to try and keep them warm as he hurried through the woods. He would have liked to have worn gloves and a heavy coat against the cold night air but it was just too risky putting extra bulk on him when he had to scale the outside of the house like that. The moonlight filtered through the trees slightly, allowing some patches of light to guide his way. In the distance he could see the vague outline of a smoke bush, its branches arching gracefully outward. This was the landmark he had been looking for, knowing his friends were only about a mile due north from the bush. The soft breeze of the night rustled his hair, causing him to pull his hat down more firmly to keep it in place. Knowing his friend Steve and the others would be wondering what had happened to him, he stepped up the pace of his walk, glad that the thick carpet of pine needles underfoot muffled his footsteps. Several minutes later, he stumbled on a hidden tree branch, and fell to his knees in the snow. Swearing briefly, he looked up and recognized the shape of four men against the distant horizon. Glad that he was so close, he broke into a run.

Tom Logan, whose father owned the Lazy K ranch which adjoined the Ponderosa to the East said, "Whew, I sure am glad to see you."

Roy Kohn stamped his feet and rubbed his arms to try and keep warm. "Gol darn it. What took you so long?"

"It took me about five minutes to start breathing again after Pa and Hoss came out on the back porch. Especially since I had just made it to that bush by the woodshed." Little Joe said blowing on his cupped hands to try and warm them.

Instantly alert, Roy said. "You mean you almost got caught? I don’t like this one bit, they didn’t see you did they?"

"If they had I wouldn’t be here would I?" Joe said, the darkness almost succeeding in hiding the grin on his face.

Cal Edwards, the quietest member of their group spoke. "I’m starting to think that this whole scam is just a little too dangerous."

Steve Garner tousled Little Joe’s hair. "I’m starting to agree with you Cal. Joe you make me nervous every time you pull that roof jumping stunt."

"Not enough to stop this little adventure I hope?" Little Joe said with a smirk.

"No, not yet anyway. But be careful. I don’t like the idea of you up on that ledge," Steve said.

"I’m always careful. I’ve been doing this for quite a while, and never fallen yet," Little Joe said, stifling a yawn with the back of his hand.

Scratching his two-day growth of beard, Tom chimed in. "No and it’s a good thing, because you’d only fall once. Then you would never get up again."

Joe snickered as he swung himself up on the chestnut mare they had brought for him. "I know what I’m doing and I’m always careful. Just leave the hard part to me. "

Tom stuck his foot in the stirrup and hauled himself on the big bay he was riding. "I guess so, but I still don’t like it."

"We’ll talk about it later, right now lets get going. I don’t want to be late, the first lamb to the slaughter should be at the International House soon, and you know how eager Little Joe is to take their money." Cal said, putting his foot into the stirrup on his black horse.

Steve nodded and turned to his horse. He had to admit that Little Joe was the most agile person he had ever seen. He thought of the time that they had taken bets on him walking the railing on the balcony on top of the Bucket of Blood. That had earned them some money. Course Joe had thrown in a couple of unneeded spins on it, which had succeeded in drawing a crowd including the sheriff. Unfortunately the evening ended with Little Joe escorted home by Roy Coffee. Every time his young friend got in trouble it tore at Steve, but the little snot was so damn convincing when he thought up these plans of his that he couldn't help but go along with the kid. And he had to say the scams were always, well, entertaining to say the least. Of course, inevitably they were caught on a few occasions. You couldn't have paid him enough money to change places with Joe when he was marched home to be punished by that father of his. Ben Cartwright scared the pants off most of the younger men in town. His booming voice made Steve jump, and he hadn't even heard it that often and it was rarely directed at him. He secretly wondered, as did the rest of the guys in their group, how Little Joe could handle getting into so much mischief knowing what he had to face at home. He saw the way that whenever someone caught Little Joe, they immediately grabbed him to prevent him from taking off. Cause once Little Joe took off, he was gone, wasn't a man in town faster than he was. He was glad he never had to face the tanning that awaited his young friend the numerous times that he was forcibly brought home.

As much as he hated to admit it, he admired Adam Cartwright. He seemed to be a fair man, from what Steve could discern from the talk about town. Most of his dealings with Adam had however involved Little Joe in trouble, and he hadn't been happy with the consequences. But, if he had been an older brother like Adam was and had helped to raise Little Joe, he would be just as likely to protect him. But Steve had his own brand of protection; nothing catastrophic would happen to Little Joe as long as he was around. He always saw to that. Sure, they might get into a bit of trouble, cause a ruckus here and there, but a fellow had to have some fun.

If Ben Cartwright could have seen the fun his son was having this particular night, he wouldn't have considered himself responsible for his actions. The suite at the International House was an elaborate one. Green and ivory satin wallpaper decorated the walls, and the furnishings were all ornately carved mahogany. Deep burgundy satin curtains hung at the windows, which overlooked the alley at the back of the hotel. Not the best view, but it suited its purpose perfectly as the entry and exit point for the youngest Cartwright.

Fifteen-year-old Little Joe sat at the polished mahogany table spaced a few feet away from the window. His golden brown curls even when combed to perfection always threatened to escape and fall down onto his forehead. As usual when he was up to something, his green eyes danced. His youth and innocence, part of the draw to the crowd of gamblers who flocked to town to play him was apparent for all to see. There was no disguising what he was. A kid who had snuck out and was having some fun. That was part of the reasoning behind the scam. Most of the losses had been good- natured ones, where there was some embarrassment on the older and more experienced gamblers part. They really didn't want to admit they had lost to a kid that wasn't tall enough to reach their shoulders.

Little Joe pushed his new hat further back on his head. He usually hated to do that, because it made him appear even younger than he was. But this time youth was the look he was going for. He looked around the table and offered each man a smile. He glanced at the pot, worn tens and twenties forming an untidy pile in the center.

" Well gentlemen, I believe it’s time." Little Joe took off his hat and expertly flipped it across the room to land on the four-postered bed.

Clint Stanton's eyes darkened as he fingered his cards. The boy was just too confident. Clint had come all the way all the way from Texas, and he was in no mood to lose. To his mind, there was no way this little punk kid was going to be able to bluff his way through anything. The boy just didn't have the experience. "You’re right. Let’s see what you’re made of. Two pair, aces over tens." He said as he showed them his hand.

Two hands of cards were flung down on the table, accompanied by a few choice swear words from the two miners who flanked the dark haired Stanton.

Little Joe held his cards in his hands, looked at them and then glanced up. He smiled as he struggled to keep the look in his eyes neutral. "A good hand. Two pair is a very good hand indeed."

Clint Stanton grunted not returning the smile. He dropped his hand on the table for all to see, and reached for the stack of bills in the center of the table.

Joe hadn't moved. "I said good, Mr. Stanton. But if I know the rules of the game," he glanced up at Steve who was standing inside the door, and winked "and I think I do, I believe that these four nice ladies will beat the pants off the measly two pair that you’re holding."

The smile, which had dominated Stanton's face, froze. "Dammit boy, that’s all the ready cash I had." The fury shone in Stanton's face as he rose to his feet and grabbed the front of Little Joe's shirt across the table. "I’ll show you to have some respect for your elders boy."

A curt "I don’t think so." Came from the doorway of the room. Steve Garner, in his now customary place by the door, flexed the muscles on his broad six foot three inch frame. In an instant, he had grabbed Stanton by the back of his neck and shook him. The man let go of Little Joe's shirt and didn't protest as he was dragged across the room and shoved out the door.

"Don't come back here until you have learned some manners." Steve called after the angry loser.

Garner shut the door with a slam. "I hope you two gentlemen will behave a bit better than your friend out there."

"Ain't no friend of mine," the smaller of the two answered. "I hate to lose, but fair is fair."

"Sure will miss that months pay though." The other miner with the scraggly beard answered grimly.

"Sorry gentlemen, but if there is one thing my Pa always taught me, it's only play poker with money you can afford to lose." laughed Little Joe.

Steve looked quizzically at Joe, as the two remaining men scraped their chairs across the wide planked floor and left.

He walked over to the table where Joe was counting the money. "Your Pa really say that?"

Little Joe snickered, "You been drinking Steve? You know my Pa’d kill me if he found out I was doing this." Joe's eyes clouded. " I still remember him punishing me for sneaking out and watching the cowhands in the bunkhouse play. I don't even want to think what he'd do if we get caught for this." Joe shook his head to clear it of disturbing thoughts. "But it sure sounded good didn’t it?"

Steve shook his head. "Sometimes you amaze me." He said showing his lopsided grin. "You were lucky though. It he'd have given you just one punch in the face, this whole game would be over. No way we'd be able to hide something like that from your Pa."

Little Joe nodded, aware of the close call they had just had. "We'll just have to be a bit more careful in the future."

"Well, back to business. How much did you rake in from those poor suckers tonight."

"Twenty, thirty, forty, fifty. Two hundred and fifty dollars. Add that to the seven hundred from earlier tonight and we made quite a nice haul." Little Joe glanced around the room " What time is it getting to be anyway?"

"Should be close to three o'clock I reckon. Grab your stuff and we'll get going."
Steve walked to the door and stood at the top of the stairs. "Hey Cal, you down there?"

Cal walked from in from the back room, which served as the bar in the newly remodeled International House. "Sure am buddy." He said, taking a long drink from the beer in his hand.

"Is the coast clear? We're ready to come down." Steve said.

"Sure is. I've got Tom out front so nobody'll come in without a warning to us."

"Hey Joe, c'mon out. It's safe."

Steve slowly walked down the stairs, his heavy steps muffled by the thick red carpeting that covered the steps. When he reached the landing, he took a left and went into the bar to look for the owner of the establishment and their business partner, Samuel Sloan.

Little Joe slipped on his green jacket, and buttoned it up halfway. He hoped the wind had died down a little bit, it had been a cold ride in. He kept meaning to buy a heavy coat and have them bring it with them when they picked him up, but he hadn't had the opportunity.

He walked to the door and glanced behind him, surveying the room, which had brought in quite a bit of money to him. When he was in the middle of a game, or with his friends this all seemed like such a great idea. And it was very profitable. But when he was at home the anxiety gnawed on his gut making it impossible to settle down.

He left the room and slid down the banister jumping to the floor before he reached the newel post.

Misty Row tossed her long auburn curls as she walked around the corner into the lobby. She walked up to Joe and said. "Oh, there you are young man. I've wanted to dance with you all evening, and all you want to do is play that silly old card game. Don't I have anything that would interest you?" she said as she pressed her breasts against his arm and ran a finger along his smooth cheek.

Little Joe knew she had many charms that he would like to discover. He had many girlfriends and older women had always paid him a lot of attention, much to the dismay of his brothers. But this was the first time that he had really had the opportunity to take full advantage of it.

"Well, since you asked." Little Joe began, liking the smell of roses that seemed to follow her.

"Not at this point in time, you don't." Steve said, coming up from behind him to finish the sentence for him.

"Steve, don't you have anything to right about now?" Little Joe said glaring at his friend and motioning him to go away.

Steve bent over and whispered. "If you don't knock it off right now, I'll throw you over my shoulder and haul you out of here myself. This is not going to happen."

"But.." Little Joe said with fire in his eyes.

"I mean it. This whole scam will stop if you don't play by my rules. " Steve whispered.

With Steve right behind there wasn't anything else Joe could do. In a final bit of defiance however, he took her hand, kissed it lightly. "Maybe the next ma’am," he said as he gazed deeply into her eyes and saw his own youthful curiosity matched by an adult lust.

Steve slipped his fingers around his young friend's neck, shook him slightly and guided him toward the stairs. "That's not funny," he said sternly.

Little Joe turned and looked up at the older man, thoughts of mutiny shining in his eyes. "I didn't mean it to be funny."

"I’m risking your entire family’s wrath by this poker game scheme, but there is no way I’m going to let you get mixed up with a saloon gal. I told you, it just isn’t happening, so put it out of your mind." Steve said, his jaw set and fire in his brown eyes. There was no mistaking he meant what he said.

"Steve, buddy" Joe said putting his arm around the older man's shoulders.

"I mean it. This is one point that I wouldn’t push me on." The arrogant set of his shoulders repeated the words he had just spoken.

"You know Steve, I hate to say it but sometimes you remind me a lot of Adam." Little Joe said shaking his head, his eyes starting to cloud.

Tom Logan returned, which was enough to diffuse the situation. "Not enough time for another game, so we better get you home Little Joe before you’re missed."

"You get going and we’ll meet you by the horses." Steve said, hoping the Misty Row situation was over.

Little Joe stuck out his lower lip, ready to continue arguing, but realized there wasn't enough time. If he hoped to get back to the Ponderosa before his father and brothers woke up, he had to leave now. His mood, always subject to change at a moment's notice did so quickly. "Okay," Little Joe said as he turned and ran up the stairs. He pulled the collar up on his jacket and buttoned it to his chin. He put his hat on, pulled up the sash and exited through the window. He carefully walked across the roof of the hotel, jumped from the second story to the roof of the first floor, and then slid across the overhang till he was at the edge. He climbed down the trellis and then sauntered down the street to where the horses were waiting.

Happy for the most part with the way the evening had gone, he hummed softly to himself and waited for the others to join him for the ride to the Ponderosa.

CHAPTER 2

Monday morning

Little Joe watched the sun come up from his place on the window seat. He couldn’t count the times he had seen the horizon turn from darkness to shades of gold and blue since the latest venture had started. He leaned back on the window frame and slipped his arms around his knees. He wished he could control his nervous stomach, which at the moment seemed to be trying to tell him that he was in over his head. A knock on his door interrupted his thought process.

"Little Joe." Hop Sing pushed open the door and shouted. "Seven o’clock. You get up now."

"I’m up." Little Joe said, and was glad to hear the Chinese cook bustle away down the hallway.

Fear of being discovery pushed the tiredness down deep into his gut. He knew his mood usually was clearly readable by his family, so he had taken extra pains to try and keep his emotions in check. He looked in the mirror, which sat atop his bureau and noticed the dark circles under his eyes. "Damn" he swore softly. Going without sleep three nights a week was wearing on him. He shook his head. It wasn't like he could sleep much the other nights either. But the money he had hidden in Cochise’s stall, plus the adventure was worth it, at least that's what he kept telling himself.

He closed his eyes, trying to compose his thoughts. Adam would be back soon since the Mill Valley deal was complete and then he’d have to be even more careful. Adam didn't miss much; he'd have to stay on his toes. It was pure luck that Pa had been so busy and not able to keep as close an eye on him as usual. In fact, he wouldn’t have even tried this little escapade if that hadn’t been the case. He wearily stood and walked over to the walnut dresser next to the window. First he looked at the picture of his mother on the bureau. She was a beautiful woman and Joe wished he remembered her more, but he had been just five when she died. His memories of her were all tightly woven together with what his father and brothers had told him about her. He picked up the pitcher and poured the cold water into the basin. He splashed the water on his face and dried it with the towel, which was folded neatly on the walnut dresser.

Hoss poked his head in the partially open doorway and opened his mouth to speak, but when he saw what was going on, he just kept his mouth shut

Little Joe looked closely into the mirror to check for any traces of stubble on his face. Just to be certain, he ran his fingers across his chin and cheek. "Nothing, not a thing." Would he ever start to get whiskers? He put his new black hat on and pulled the brim down over his eyebrows. Narrowing his hazel eyes he gave the mirror a mean look which was hard to accomplish with a baby face. Now a mustache would be the perfect accompaniment, and it would make him look a whole lot older.

Hoss was unable to contain the snicker that escaped him.

Little Joe spun around to follow the sound. "Funny. You think this is funny, don’t you." But he had to smile at his beloved older brother. Hoss was indulgent with Joe's delusions of adulthood, but if it had been Adam in the doorway he would have had a radically different reaction.

Hoss lumbered across the room and grabbed his baby brother and threw him over his shoulder. ‘I don't know why you've been awake in the morning lately. You're usually dead to the world when I come in to wake you up, but let’s go have some breakfast."

The smell of food didn't set well with Little Joe's stomach, and he took a deep breath to try and settle it. His appetite was usually the first thing to go when he was up to mischief, a fact that his father and Adam rarely missed. He had been forcing himself to eat at least some breakfast just to keep the wool pulled over his father's eyes.

Ben was already seated at the head of the heavy walnut table; a large platter filled with ham occupied the center surrounded by warm bread, eggs, and fresh fruit. Ben smiled at his sons' horseplay and beckoned for them to sit down.

Little Joe would have liked to take Adam’s usual seat, at the opposite end of the table from his father. However his place was at the right side of his father, a place he had regretted many times in the past because he was close enough for Pa to reach out and grab him if the occasion warranted. Hoss sat directly across from him and smiled at his baby brother.

Ben passed the heaping platter to his middle son, and said. "What are your plans for today Hoss?"

After filling his plate, Hoss answered. "I'm going to go check the fence down by the Lazy K. It hasn't been replaced in I don't know how long. Might be getting bad in spots."

Ben nodded in agreement. "Good idea." He said before turning to his youngest son.

Little Joe had put tiny portions of food on his plate, and was pushing them around with his fork. Unaware that his brother and father had started to watch him, he slumped in his chair letting the fringes of his exhaustion show.

"Joseph." Ben said, with concern in his eyes.

Lost in his own thoughts, Little Joe didn't even hear his father.

"Joseph." Ben said again, a little more sternly.

His thoughts clearing, he heard the sound of his name. He shook his head before turning to return his father's gaze. "Yes, sir."

"Son, are you feeling alright?"

"I'm fine Pa." Little Joe said flashing a brilliant smile that didn't reach his eyes.

Ben looked at Hoss before returning his gaze to Little Joe. "You aren't eating much son.

Little Joe looked down at his plate before looking at his father. "Just not hungry this morning that's all." he said, shaking his head.

Ben put his hand out and felt his youngest son's forehead, relieved that it wasn't warm. "Well son, if this appetite doesn't return we'll be checking into it. You know what that means."

Little Joe gulped and a shadow of dread crossed his eyes. "Yes sir." Checking into it was Ben’s way of saying that they’d make a trip to see Doc Martin. Little Joe hated the doctor more than anything. He couldn't even stand to see Doc Martin's carriage ride around town; it made him break out in a cold sweat.

"He's probably just thinking about some girl in town Pa, you know how he is," Hoss added chuckling trying to divert Ben’s attention.

Little Joe narrowed his eyes at Hoss." I just have a lot on my mind this morning. But it's a big test at school today." The grandfather clock against the wall chimed half past eight. Little Joe wiped his chin with the napkin, and slid his chair back. "I have to get going or I’ll be late. May I be excused?"

"Yes you may, but make sure you are on time tonight. If you’re kept after school you’ll be in trouble young man." Ben answered sternly.

"I won't be late. See ya." Joe called over his shoulder as he ran out the door.

"Well, I'm glad to hear that he's concerned about a test, and not up to something." Ben said, finishing his eggs.

Hoss drained his coffee cup. "You know, I hate to sound like Adam, but if he's so worried about some gol darn test, why didn't he have any books?"

Hop Sing entered the dining room to clear the breakfast dishes. He pulled Hoss' plate away from him, and Ben leaned back so he could remove his empty plate. He walked over to Little Joe's place, shook his head and spoke several words in rapid Chinese, before turning to his employer. "Why Little Joe no eat? Three days, no eat breakfast. Move food around on plate. No take lunch Hop Sing pack for him. Three days. Boy waste away to nothing. Why father not pay attention?"

Ben's eyes clouded and he ran his hand through his silver hair, realizing he had been fooled again by his youngest son. "Damn it." Ben muttered to himself. He hadn't being keeping a close eye enough on his boys. Hoss was okay left to his own devices, but Little Joe was just too young to be left on his own for long. The boy tended to get into trouble. He looked at the Chinese cook who had been a part of the family since before his youngest was born. "You're right Hop Sing. I just haven't been noticing. I'll keep a better eye on him in the future. And tonight he will eat. You mark my words."

Hop Sing smiled and pointed his index finger at his much larger employer. "You no yell. Little Joe good boy. You no yell." Although concerned about the child he considered a son; Hop Sing didn't want him in trouble.

Ben chuckled, knowing how much it had taken to get Hop Sing to speak up. Usually his youngest son could do no wrong in the cook's eyes, but concern had won out over the possibility of Joe getting into trouble. "I won't. I'll just strongly encourage my baby son that it would be in his best interest to eat a meal now and then."

The sound of hoofbeats outside drew their attention.

"I'll bet that's Adam." Ben said, finishing the last sip of his coffee and getting up from the table.

Ben and his middle son went to the door to greet the oldest; who was relieved to be home. He hugged both men, and said. " A month is just too long to be away from the ranch."

Ben clapped him on the back. "I agree son, I agree. How did things go?"

Adam took off his hat and gunbelt and hung them by the door. He dropped his saddlebag on the credenza and then walked over and sat down in the leather armchair in front of the fire. His father and brother joined him, as he warmed himself in front of the fire. "Very well, actually."

After a long and drawn out discussion, the conversation returned to the status of life on the Ponderosa.

"Well I must say that your youngest brother has been rather, well subdued is the word that most seems to fit." Ben said rubbing his palms together.

"Little Joe-subdued? Those words somehow don’t go together Pa." Adam said quizzically.

Ben shook his head, "I know, but that’s the case. Of course I’ve been rather busy lately with the new lumber contracts with the Yellow Jacket mine. And I hate to admit it, but it took Hop Sing to notice that Little Joe hasn't hardly been eating at all.

"Not eating? I don't like the sound of that." Adam said, narrowing his eyes. "I know he was never a big eater, but if he isn't eating anything there is usually a reason behind it."

"Never a big eater? That's the understatement of the century. That boy don't eat enough to keep a bird alive if you ask me." Hoss said.

Adam walked over to Hoss and patted his rather sizeable stomach. "I don't think we should really take your advice on how much Little Joe should eat, given the difference in your sizes, but I do tend to agree with you."

Ben covered his eyes with his hand. "Plus on top of the lumber deal I've been doing a lot of thinking about those damned horse races in Virginia City." He pounded the arm of the chair with his fist. "They are a menace. I wish Roy Coffee would put a stop to them. Somebody is going to get killed the way they fly through the streets. An organized horse race is one thing. But these are a menace."

"I know Pa, but you have to realize that the town is growing up. This kind of thing is going to happen. When we were in Placerville you didn't seem to mind them so much." Adam said.

Ben stood and paced before the fire. "I know, I know. But Placerville is different. It's a rougher town, and you don't see kids and ladies walking the streets there like you do in Virginia City." Ben looked his oldest son in the eye. "There is no way I would let Little Joe wander the streets in Placerville like I allow him to do in Virginia City."

Adam grinned wryly. "Of course if you listen to Little Joe he doesn't get to wander anywhere."

"You know what I mean Adam. A fifteen-year-old has no business walking the streets alone in a place like Placerville. Little Joe does get some freedom in Virginia City" Ben said with a chuckle "At least as long as someone isn't too far behind him anyway. That boy can get into trouble anywhere."

'I know, I know. The kid just wants to grow up too fast, that's all. But I think we'll wage this battle till he is grown up, and that's quite a ways away."

"I have to agree with you," Ben said "and I know I shouldn't let those damn races upset me so much, but they just do." The sight of his precious wife Marie dying in front of him didn't return to his mind as often as it did in the past, but for some reason the Virginia City horse races brought it frequently. He didn't mention it to his son's but the thought remained.

Hoss' eyes shifted to the right guiltily, and returned the conversation to its original topic. "But the boy ain't hardly been himself lately Adam. Going to bed when he's told, not hardly talking back at all-waking up in the morning. I just don't know what's gotten into him."

"I'll find out-don't you worry." Adam said with a grin, looking forward to talking to his youngest brother. He knew that Joe had a talent for pulling the wool over most people's eyes. Hoss rarely caught on to anything the boy was up to, and even Pa could be fooled on occasion. But Adam could usually tell when he was up to no good.

The McAllistair School for Boys was situated among a large grove of Pine trees just East of Virginia City. It was a large building with many classrooms, including a dormitory to house boys from out of the territory. It served as the only school in the area once a boy graduated from the regular schoolhouse in town. Normally, a boy had to be eighteen to enter, but with Adam’s diligent and altogether unsolicited help, Joe had graduated before his friends from the Virginia City School and been enrolled at McAllistair's shortly before he turned fifteen.

It was shortly after ten o’clock, and Little Joe was slouched in his chair, nonchalantly sleeping. Mr. Steadman paced back at forth at the front of the classroom, his voice lilting when he spoke of his beloved algorithms and equations. The black slacks and jacket, coupled with a white shirt made most of the teachers look studious and educated. On Steadman it just looked wrong. He had thick dark straight hair, a goatee and a mustache. Most of the students agreed with Joe's opinion that the devil himself had possessed their math teacher.

Frank Jeffries, who sat behind Little Joe pushed his blonde hair out of his eyes and readjusted the dark blue string tie on his shirt. "How could that kid sleep in these chairs?" he thought to himself, crossing and uncrossing his long legs in a failed attempt to be comfortable. A crumpled slip of paper landed on his desk, thrown from the left where his friend Paul sat, his large body appearing to overflow the desk. Frank quickly covered the paper with his hand, and glanced at the front of the room to make sure the exchange had gone unnoticed. Satisfied that it had, he straightened out the ball of paper, and silently smoothed out the wrinkles with the palm of his hand. The note was short and sweet. "He's taking a hell of a risk with old man Steadman up there."

Frank smiled to himself before turning to his Paul and nodding his agreement.

The scraping sound of the ruler being removed from its resting-place on the lip of the chalk tray drew their attention. Both boys sunk lower in their chairs; their eyes showed the resignation that they felt. Mr. Steadman was walking down the rows of desks, toward their young friend.

Frank leaned forward in his chair and nudged Joe in the backside with the tip of his boot, hoping to rouse him. Unfortunately it made no impact on the sleeping boy. However, the wooden ruler, smacked against his knuckles brought Little Joe awake with a start, the crack resounding throughout the room. He grabbed his left hand and rubbed it silently, knowing he had no defense except a sheepish grin. Where the infamous Joe Cartwright grin worked on most of the citizens of Virginia it didn't work in this classroom. Mr. Steadman grabbed him by the upper arm, dragged him to his feet and hauled him to the front of the room.

After class, out in the courtyard under a big oak tree, Paul, Frank and Quenton were discussing the morning's entertainment in Mr. Steadman's class and eating their lunches. All three boys were nineteen and had been at McAllistair's for over a year, and were very protective of their young friend who seemed to have a knack for trouble.

The morning had been unseasonably warm and the boys were happy that they could escape the building and eat lunch outside. They were sitting at an outdoor table under a big oak tree, and Joe was curled up sleeping on the hard cold ground.

Frank nudged the younger boy. "Hey Joe wake up. How many times did you have to write?"

No movement came from the youngest Cartwright. Frank smiled at his friends as he swung one leg over the bench. He dropped to his knees and shook Little Joe awake.

"Huh" Little Joe managed to say, trying to clear the fog from his mind. Once he fell asleep he was usually dead to the world, and it showed his exhaustion that they had been able to wake him so easily. He was unable to fall into the deep sleep he needed to regain his strength.

Little Joe sat up, stretched and grinned wryly "Huh?'

After Frank repeated his question, Joe gave a sheepish grin. "500 times I will not fall asleep in Mr. Steadman's class. That old blackboard is covered with my backslanting scrawl." He said, stifling a yawn with the back of his hand. "And then he had the nerve to complain about me being left-handed." Little Joe sat up straight and raised his chin high to do his impression of his teacher. He dropped his voice two octaves and spoke gruffly shaking his finger at the other boys. "If I had had my way, boy you would have been broken of that offensive habit long ago. It just shows you are too headstrong for your own good. A couple sessions with a birch switch would change your attitude for the better." He said, unable to contain the laughter that spilled from him. He looked at his friends who had fallen on the ground and were roaring with laughter.

Quenton stopped laughing long enough to say "Yeah, sure. Like you haven't been through the birch switch routine with your Pa more times that I can count. It ain't changed you at all as far as I can see."

Little Joe sobered. "No it hasn't but that doesn't mean I don't listen whenever it happens." He sat down on the ground and rubbed his hands together, tracing the red stripe that was starting to darken into a bruise from the wrath of the ruler."

Sensing the change in Joe's mood, they stopped laughing. "You gonna be able to hide that when you get home?" Quenton said, knowing the questions his young friend would have to answer if the mark were detected.

Little Joe smiled, trying to return to his earlier lighthearted mood. "Sure, Adam ain't home. I'll be fine."

"Hey Joe-ain’t you going to eat anything?" Paul said, grabbing his sandwich and stuffing the last bite into is mouth.

"Naw, I’m just not hungry. Now wake me up when it's time to go back in will ya" Little Joe said as he snuggled up on his jacket and went back to sleep.

The rest of the day passed uneventfully, and Joe was glad to be able to go home on time. He rode at a hard gallop, loving the wind blowing past his face. Cochise loved to run as fast as she could, and Joe often let her set her own pace. He slowed down as he neared the house knowing his father would be upset at the reckless way he and his beloved horse liked to travel. He dismounted quickly, and led her into the barn. Sam Elliot, one of the ranch hands that worked on the Ponderosa was brushing Adam's horse Sport. Little Joe smiled. Even though he was concerned that his mischief might be uncovered, he was glad his oldest brother was home. Even though Adam kept a too close eye on him as far as Little Joe was concerned, he was still a good brother and Joe had missed him. It just wasn't the same with him gone, and who would he play practical jokes on if it Adam wasn't around.

Little Joe hung Cochise's bridle in its place on the wall and took care of her needs. He then grabbed his empty saddlebag and ran to the house showing more energy than he had felt in days. He sprinted through the front door, tossed his bag and hat on the credenza and called. "Hey Adam you home?"

Adam, Hoss and Ben had been at the desk that served as the hub of business on the Ponderosa. Adam smiled and walked out where Little Joe could see him. "Sure am baby brother" and spread his arms for a hug.

Little Joe ran over and grabbed him about the waist, as Adam enfolded his younger brother in his arms. "I sure missed you Adam."

"Me too squirt," Adam said, tousling Little Joe's curls. "C'mon over and I'll fill you in on the great deal your oldest and smartest brother made."

"Now I'll go along with oldest, but I won't agree on smartest," Hoss said with a grin.

All four Cartwrights laughed, happy to be together once more.

The promised "battle of wills" that Ben had promised Hop Sing at breakfast began promptly as the youngest Cartwright sat down for supper. Instead of passing the platter of food around as usually done, Ben took his youngest son's plate and put a small portion of roast beef, potatoes, and carrots on it.

Little Joe looked at his father quizzically. "What are you doing Pa?"

"You haven't been eating properly, son. You ate very little for breakfast and Hop Sing tells me you didn't take any lunch with you to school today. Therefore, you are going to eat exactly what I put in front of you." Ben said staring at his youngest child.

Little Joe eyes clouded and he slunk in his chair. "But Pa, I just ain't hungry," he said shaking his head

"Aren't hungry" Adam corrected putting the napkin on his lap.

"See, Adam knows." Preferring to deliberately misunderstand Adams never ending correction of his grammar.

"Every bite Joseph. And not another word out of you." Ben said, his tone indicating that he would brook no refusal. He knew that his struggle with Joseph over eating was in all likelihood going to be long and drawn out and he wasn't looking forward to it.

Little Joe slumped even further in his chair. "Pa I can't eat all that. It's just too much." He pleaded.

Adam and Hoss looked at each other, each understanding what the other was thinking. It was going to be one of those nights. Adam looked at his younger brother closely. There were dark smudges under his eyes and he had lost weight. He looked ready to drop over in his chair. Adam personally thought that this conversation could have waited until tomorrow, but kept his opinion to himself.

Little Joe, who had inherited a stubborn streak from his mother, stuck out his chin, crossed his arms and refused to eat anything.

Hoss cringed. He didn't think that Little Joe knew the frame of mind his father was in today. Hop Sing mentioning that his younger brother hadn't been eating had struck a nerve in Pa. He knew his father realized that he had been too busy to keep a proper eye on his young son, and felt Little Joe had suffered for it.

Little Joe's tiredness had indeed caused him to misread his father's mood. His mind wandered, and he didn't even notice the glance that passed around the table about him.

"Joseph I will give you exactly thirty seconds to start eating, or you can go to your room and stay there the rest of the night."

The sound of a chair scraping the floor was his answer. "Fine." Little Joe said, throwing his napkin on the table and sprinting for his room. He took the steps two and a time and ran into his room, slamming the door behind him

Ben pounded his fist on the table. "Damn that boy." He stood and unbuckled his belt, intending to follow his youngest son and give him a much-needed dose of parental discipline.

Adam rose. "Wait Pa, let me go and talk to him."

Ben looked sternly at Adam. "I'm the parent here. I'll thank you to let me discipline your brother as I see fit."

Always the one to keep peace, Hoss joined in. "Please Pa, sit down and finish your supper." He knew that Joe probably deserved what his father had in mind, but he was very protective of his baby brother.

"Why must you two question me? Your brother needs a good tanning for disobedience and he is going to get one. Now I suggest the two stop interfering and let me take care of Little Joe."

"C'mon Pa, it's my first night home. Let's not get it started on the wrong foot. I'll go up and talk to him and see what's bothering him. He doesn't look like he feels so hot. You know how he gets when he's sick." Adam said appealing to his father's conscience.

"Yeah Pa," Hoss said. "He's acting real edgy and skittish. Let Adam talk to him and see what's going on. You go up there with that belt in your hand and he's going to clam up for sure."

Ben frowned at both his sons, but remembered the tired and exhausted look on Little Joe's face. He realized they were probably right. "Alright. But you tell him that he'll be finishing all his breakfast in the morning or he won't be able to sit down for a week."

"Sure Pa," Adam said and went upstairs to talk to his brother.

Adam rapped softly before opening the door and poking his head in. "Stand a bit of company?"

He could see the relief wash over Joe when he realized it wasn't his father. "Sure."

It was a spacious room, dominated by a mahogany four poster bed jutting out from the wall to the left of the door, its rumpled blue bedspread holding a brown leather saddlebag. Little Joe slouched in the leather chair facing the large window, trying but not succeeding in keeping his composure in the face of his father's anger. Adam walked across the room and sat in an oak rocking chair directly in front of his brother. Little Joe started to pull off his boots, but when his oldest brother motioned for him to let him help, he put his boot into the man's outstretched hands

The boot came loose with a quick tug, and Joe replaced it with his other foot. His youngest brother didn’t seem even mildly upset that he had been banished to his room. He knew that Little Joe usually hated spending any more time than necessary up here, but he realized that this was exactly where Little Joe had wanted to be. That was strange enough in itself, but he also thought his baby brother had underestimated his father's fury. But that was something that would have to be resolved in the morning.

"It just ain't fair, Adam." Joe said pushing his hair off his forehead. "Can't a man just be not hungry once in a while?"

His head bent to his task; Adam was able to hide the smile on his face. For as long as Adam could remember Little Joe was always trying to be his own boss, unwilling to listen to those who knew better. He often wished that the boy would just enjoy his childhood, but that wasn't the way it was going to be. He had to admit he would miss the struggle if it turned out that way. It was a battle of wits every day, the Cartwrights trying to keep him in his place and Little Joe always wanting to grow up faster than allowed. Adam gave a final tug and the left boot came loose. He set it on the floor neatly lined up next to its mate.

"You must've aged a lot in the month since I was gone, baby brother. When did you become a man." Adam said softly.

"Don't tease me. I'm just not in the mood." Joe said rubbing his tired eyes.

Adam leaned forward and took Little Joe's chin in his hand and looked into his eyes, noticing again the dark circles. "You been sleeping at night little brother?"

Little Joe nodded, dropping his gaze.

Adam smiled and said softly. "I don't know why, but I don't believe you. But I'll let it go if you get undressed and get in bed right now."

"But Adam, it's only seven O'clock. I can't go to bed already." Little Joe argued, rising to his feet.

Adam stood and put his hands on his hips. He then adopted his stern older brother voice. "I think you should be grateful boy. Pa was on his way up here with his belt half off when I stopped him. I think you owe me a little thanks."

Little Joe paled and his bottom lip quivered. "He was?"

Adam nodded. "Yes he was. Oh, yeah he also told me to tell you that you better finish all your breakfast in the morning or you won't sit down for a week."

"Damn," Little Joe said under his breath.

Adam was amazed when without a further fight; Little Joe stood and unbuttoned his shirt, removed it, and placed it on the chair beside the window. He undid his gray trousers and draped them over the white shirt. He took the nightshirt Adam handed to him, threw it over his head, shrugging his shoulders to ease it past his lightly muscled chest.

Walking to the bed he turned to Adam. "You know I really don't mean to cause trouble."

"I know, but it usually has a way of finding you."

Little Joe climbed in bed, and pulled the covers up to his chest.

"Good night baby brother. Sleep tight."

"Night Adam, I'm glad you're home. And thanks for stopping Pa." Joe said, flashing a tired grin.

"You're welcome. Just make sure you eat hearty in the morning and I think Pa will let it go."

"I can't promise that Adam." Little Joe said, making an effort with his grammar.

"Well, you better try anyway." Adam said, smiling as he ruffled the curls on top of his baby brother's head.

Adam shut the door behind him. Little Joe could hear him walk down the stairs. But he lay in bed unable to sleep, aimlessly plucking at the heavy blankets. He was exhausted, but just couldn't drop off into the deep sleep he needed. The last few weeks he just hadn’t been able to relax at home. This was the biggest scam he had ever tried to pull off and it ate at him inside. When he was at The International House or at school he could usually keep his mind occupied, but at home it was all he could think of. As a result he hadn't been able to sleep for more than a few minutes at a time. The weeks of sleep deprivation were showing and he didn't know what to do about it.

CHAPTER 2

Tuesday morning

Hoss knocked on his younger brother's door and waited for an answer. Hearing none, he opened the door and walked in. He saw a note on the bed and picked it up. It read "Went to school early, big test."

"Damn that kid." Hoss said shaking his head. He left the room and slowly walked down the stairs."

At breakfast, Ben was unable to control his anger. He stormed back and forth across the large living room trying to calm down. "I have half a mind to ride over to that school and drag him home right now." He said pounding his fist on the table in front of the large fireplace. "And you boy," Ben said pointing his finger at Adam "You convinced me to let him off last night. Now you see what happens when I take it easy on him."

Adam sat at the table, trying but not succeeding in ignoring his father's anger. He remembered how he convinced Little Joe to enter McAllistair's. Adam smiled. He liked the word convinced, even though in reality blackmailed was closer to the truth. Adam had usually accompanied his father to the many conversations between the teachers concerning his baby brother. Little Joe always made decent grades in school without trying, but usually stirred up a good deal of trouble along the way. When the new headmaster John Cornwall came to McAllister's, he went to the schoolhouse and looked at the older boys who were potential students. After looking over Joe's school records and watching him in action, he talked to the Cartwright family and said he had handled many boys like Little Joe in the past. Part of the trouble he suggested was boredom and that a more advanced course of study and firmer hand would mean all the difference in Joe's education. Adam had liked the man who had been schooled back East and had been convinced from the start. He knew Little Joe was very bright but was able to slide by the lessons in the Virginia City School mostly with his charm and wit. His baby brother had a knack for wrapping people around his little finger when he wanted to, and the teachers were no exception. Adam was sure the Cartwrights only heard about the major scrapes that the boy got into, and he felt certain that the minor ones were swept under the rug. The teachers would forgive most transgressions when they encountered the baby face and sheepish grin of his youngest brother. Ben could have just ordered his young son to enter the other school, and was about to do so when Mr. Cornwall had stopped him. He felt it would defeat the purpose and that Little Joe must willingly want to go. Of course he had taken Adam aside later and gave him a few ideas on how to convince Joe to "willingly" enter the school.

Adam had been out before breakfast one morning checking on some strays. He was sitting atop Washue Ridge looking at the valley below him when he saw Little Joe riding on Cochise. Adam chuckled to himself, watching his brother. Little Joe had only one speed, which was about half again as fast as the rest of the world. The little Pinto was like Joe in many ways. Adam pulled on the reins and started to turn his horse around when he out of the corner of his eye he caught Joe make an unexpected turn and head off through the trees to the East, instead of continuing on to school.

Adam shook his head. "What is that kid up to now." He said aloud. If truth were told, he thought things had been just a little too quiet at the Ponderosa and now he thought he knew why. He nudged Sport down the ridge and followed his youngest brother.

Sport sure-footedly mastered the steep hill, and when they reached level ground Adam nudged him into a gallop. There was no telling what Little Joe was up to, but Adam was sure no good would come of it. When he reached the grove of trees that the boy had entered a few minutes earlier, he slowed down to a walk, not knowing how far he would have to go before encountering his brother. Several hundred yards later, he was rewarded by seeing Cochise grazing on the grass near a thick grove of trees. There was a buggy next to the trees, and a lady’s parasol on the seat. Adam frowned. When he got closer, he noticed his brother’s left-handed gunbelt and hat hanging on Cochise's saddle horn. Adam swore to himself. "Damn him." Little Joe had always attracted women of all ages, even when he was very small. But since he had hit his early teens it had been a constant battle to keep the more experienced ladies of the town away.

Adam dismounted quickly and tied his horse’s reins to a low growing juniper bush. His jaw hardened as he prepared to extricate his youngest brother one more time from a situation he felt the boy wasn't ready for.

A soft giggle, and a lilting "Now Little Joe, you will be a good boy won’t you." wafted back to him through the thick branches of the trees.

Joe's voice followed shortly thereafter. "Of course I will. As long as you both behave yourself."

Adam gritted his teeth and quickened his pace at the word ‘both". When he reached the clearing, he was stunned at what he saw. A blanket had been laid on the ground, the soft pine needles providing a cushion. His youngest brother was lying on his back, and two women in various stages of undress were leaning over him, showering him with kisses. The blonde, whom Adam knew as Sue Lynn Jackson, was kissing her way down Little Joe naked chest, while Freida Harper, the redhead, had her arms tightly around the boy kissing him deeply on the lips. Both women were Hoss’ age, which made them ten years older than his baby brother. Adam had known they had been after him for some time, but hadn’t realized how determined they were. He only hoped that he had stopped the first occurrence of this tryst.

Caught up in the moment, the three didn’t notice a visitor until he was a mere step away from them. Adam put his hands on his hips, trying to calm his anger before he spoke. He didn’t succeed. "Just what in the hell do you think are you doing."

Little Joe, who had his eyes shut and was concentrating on the full set of lips pressed against his mouth. He gently caressed Sue Lynn's full bosom through the flimsy cotton of her dress. He heard a voice yelling somewhere but convinced himself that he was imagining things.

"Joseph Francis Cartwright." Adam yelled.

Hearing his full name, Little Joe knew this was no dream. Both women stopped what they were doing and looked up at the oldest Cartwright brother, and then looked at each other, guilty smiles frozen on their lips.

All the fun drained from Joe's face, replaced by a haunted look of dread. He quickly sat up. He glanced at Sue Lynn and Freida then looked his older brother in the eye. He was afraid of what he saw. "Adam, it’s not what you think."

Adam successfully hid the grin that threatened to spring to his lips. His baby brother was so exasperating at times. "Then boy why don’t you tell me exactly what it is."

Little Joe looked again at the ladies who were adjusting the shoulders of their dresses, before returning his gaze to his older brother. His mind, usually so quick to think up excuses failed him. Resigned, he said. "Okay, maybe it is, but."

"Joe this is not the way to get experience with women." Adam said rolling his eyes.

"Has this happened before?" Adam asked, his jaw set and hands on hips.

"No." Little Joe answered his eyes downcast and lower lip trembling.

"Look at me when I'm talking to you boy." Adam said gritting his teeth. The emerald green eyes that looked up at him wavered slightly but Adam could tell it was the truth.

"I said no, this hasn't happened before." Little Joe repeated, rubbing his hands together.

"Please tell me what’s to stop me from marching all three of you into town and letting everyone know just exactly what was going to happen here." Adam said throwing out a threat he had no intention of carrying out.

The two women paled, and Freida trembled slightly. Although both women didn’t have spotless reputations around the mining town, this was another matter entirely. The town's people would be outraged that they had tried this on such a young, albeit willing partner, and would probably run them both out of town. The youngest Cartwright was the town's favorite son, and knowing of his penchant for trouble everyone looked out for him.

Little Joe put his arm around her and whispered "Don’t worry I can handle this," even though he had no idea how he was going to do it.

Adam couldn’t stand the sight of Little Joe comforting the older woman. He sprang forward and grabbed Little Joe by the arm and hauled him to his feet. He picked up Little Joe shirt and shoved it at him, "Put it on."

Little Joe complied; dismayed that Adam wouldn’t let go of his arm. Flight was an option, and Adam knew it. His only choice, as far as Little Joe was concerned was a vacation away from the Ponderosa. After a couple weeks, his father would be glad to see him back and the punishment, although still severe would be manageable. He couldn’t even bring himself to imagine how mad Pa was going to be if he went home now. Adam, having dragged Little Joe home many times before knew how his baby brother thought and wasn’t going to give him any opportunities to run.

The trek back to the Ponderosa was a long one, Adam-leading Cochise, a very quiet Joe Cartwright on her back.

Adam explained to his younger brother the right and wrong sort of women. " You’re too young to be playing a man’s game. A kid your age should be flirting, stealing a kiss here and there. With girls close to his own age. Those women are as old as Hoss. And I wouldn’t trust Hoss alone with them."

Trying to make light of the situation, Little Joe said. "Aw Adam, they ain’t interested in Hoss."

"I’m aware of that fact, boy. They better stay away from you too, or there will be even more hell to pay. And I think you have quite a bill rung up right now."

Little Joe nodded, and took a deep breath trying to calm his nerves. He was not looking forward to arriving at the house.

Adam continued the conversation in his mind. "I will have to do a more diligent job. Why can’t they just leave him alone?" It had been that way since Little Joe was the tiniest of infants. Except for a brief year at age 12, Little Joe had always liked girls. His mind wandered remembering the all-too-brief period when Joe thought girls were worthless.

Little Joe had been watching Cochise's reins in Adams hands. He waited for the right moment and when Adam was looking at the sky, he made one quick grab. Unfortunately, Adam was surprised but hadn't let his guard down.

Joe was not prepared for what happened next. Adam pulled him down off his horse, sat down on a boulder turned him over his knee and gave him several sharp smacks across his backside.

"Don’t you ever do that again. You hear me boy." Adam seethed. "You know that I prefer to have Pa dish out your punishment, but you went too far."

Little Joe stared at his boots. His oldest brother was right and he knew it. But desperation had driven him to it. Ben had given Adam permission long ago to discipline his youngest brother in Ben’s absence, but Adam exercised it rarely. Little Joe knew when it happened, he had pushed his older brother beyond all reasonable thought. To have Pa do it was bad enough, but when Adam resorted to spanking him he knew that things were bad. What had started out to be the best day of his life had turned into one of the worst.

Adam held his horse's reins and tossed Joe up on Sport, before climbing up behind him. "You are not getting away from me. You might as well face it." He said holding onto his brother around the middle.

A short while later, Adam reined in at a bluff overlooking Lake Tahoe. He had been trying for weeks to think of some idea to force Little Joe to go to McAllistair's, and here the plan dropped right into his lap.

"I'll cut you a deal Joe. There is no way you are getting off without any punishment, but I'll only tell Pa the skipping school part if you agree to go to McAllister's." Adam said smoothly with a grin on his face. "And promise never to see those women again.""

Little Joe weighed the consequences. Skipping school was bad enough, but this whole thing with Freida and Sue Lynn was a major problem. Little Joe was more experienced around women than most kids his age, but he was sure Pa had no idea about many of his little adventures. No telling how his father would react. "But Adam, I really don't want to go to school at all."

"I know you don't but that's the deal. Take it or leave it." Adam said coldly. He didn't know if he had the heart to tell Pa the whole situation or not anyway.

Little Joe shifted around in the saddle until he could look at his older brother. He saw a determined look in the dark eyes. He was convinced that Adam wouldn't hold back any of the details of what he had seen when he came through the pine trees earlier this morning. As much as he hated to admit it, he had no choice in the matter. "Alright Adam, I'll go." Little Joe said and hung his head.

Later that evening, Ben Cartwright wearily walked down the steps. He hated disciplining his youngest boy, but skipping school was a major offense. He pushed his belt through his belt loops and buckled it slowly. He walked over to the couch and sat down next to his oldest son.

"You know Pa, McAllistair's might break some of that wild spirit in him. They keep a much closer eye on them there. I think it's our only real choice." Adam said, eager to settle things.

"I know Adam, but remember Mr. Cornwall said that Little Joe must want to go. I haven't heard any willingness on his part."

Adam said smoothly. "I think he'll go."

"What makes you think he’s changed his mind?" Ben said, stroking his chin.

Adam smiled disarmingly "Just call it a hunch."

Ben stared at his oldest son, able to tell when the wool was being pulled over his eyes. "You want to stick with that story, or think of a better one."

"If I had a better one, I would have come up with it by now." Adam said chuckling.

Ben thought for a moment but decided to leave well enough alone. He knew he could trust his oldest son when Joe's welfare was concerned. "Alright, I’ll mention it at supper tonight."

At supper, Hop Sing puts a pillow on the chair and Little Joe stiffly walks down the stairs and gingerly sits down.

Little Joe stares at his plate, unwilling to meet anyone’s eyes.

"Adam and I have been discussing your future, and I’ve decided that you will enter McAllistair's. Is that agreeable to you son?"

Little Joe eyes met with his oldest brother, then he dropped them to his plate again. "Yes sir."

"Look at me when you talk to me Joseph. I asked you a question. What is your answer?" Ben asked.

Joe looked up at his father. His voice wavered as he said. "Yes, sir I’ll go."

"Good, we’ll speak to the headmaster tomorrow. Everything is already in place." Ben said, unfolding his napkin and placing it in his lap.

"Already in place?" Joe said glaring at his oldest brother. He had been tricked. Yes, he had given them the opportunity, but that wasn't the point.

His father's ranting brought Adam's mind back to the table and the business at hand. Maybe the month away from the ranch had made him a little more lenient where his baby brother was concerned. "C'mon Pa let's go. We've got to be in town at 10:00 to meet with Mr. Sawyer. We can talk about this later." He hoped that his father's temper had cooled by the time Joe came home from school.

Hoss and Little Joe sat at the table in the dining room, a platter of steak and potatoes between them. Hoss had eagerly filled his plate and had started to eat, but his baby brother just couldn't sit still, tapping his foot nervously on the floor.

"Will you stop that please." Hoss said, stopping his fork halfway to his mouth.

"What?" Little Joe said with a question in his eyes.

Hoss scratched his head. "That infernal tapping. It's driving me nuts, so quit."

Little Joe looked contrite and chewed on his lower lip. "Sorry Hoss. What time do you think Pa and Adam will be home?" Little Joe said, looking toward the door, his face filled with dread.

Hoss realized why his baby brother was so nervous. "I don't know. Probably not till after you're in bed though." Hoss said, shoveling a forkful of fried potatoes into his mouth. "I’m sure Pa will be more than willing to punish you tomorrow instead of tonight."

"Hoss, is Pa really that mad at me? " Little Joe said, nervously folding and re-folding his red and white checked napkin.

"Yeah, I think he is." Hoss said swallowing the last bite of steak off his plate.

Little Joe thrust out his lower lip and crossed his arms across his chest. "All I did was not eat. I don't see what the big deal is."

"That isn't the point and you know it."

"Why does he get so mad at me?" Little Joe said his expressive green eyes wavering.

"Because you deliberately disobeyed him and you know it. I also believe that you know what you've earned by doing it. So you just better sit on that chair and enjoy it, because you probably won't be sitting so easily after Pa gets done with you."

Little Joe slumped in his chair. He looked up at his big brother and couldn't hide the feelings of misery.

Hoss cleared his throat, and looked away. He hated to see his brother get into trouble, and worse he hated to see him look so torn up inside. It was so hard to stay mad at the little devil. "Tell you what punkin. I shouldn't do this, and Pa'd have my hide if he found out, but if you eat a little bit I'll tell Pa you finished it all. And I'll convince him not to be mad at you."

Little Joe sat up a little straighter in his chair, but still looked doubtful "You sure you can do that?"

"Of course I can." Hoss said, sounding more certain than he felt "You're not the only one in the family who was blessed with a charming personality you know. I just don't use it as often as you do though, so when Pa is past the point where you can convince him, I can."

Joe let out the breath he had been holding and relaxed. "Sounds like a deal to me." he said smiling adoringly at his much larger brother. Hoss always protected him, well unless the joke was on him, and then Little Joe couldn't fault him. It was nice to have someone to always turn to. He would have liked to bring Hoss in on some of his wilder adventures, but he knew that Hoss would have a hard time dealing with them. He would have been torn between acting the part of a friend excited by the scam and a big brother who was duty bound to tell Pa.

Little Joe put a small slice of ham on his plate, and a couple of spoonfuls of potatoes. He put his napkin on his lap and smiled at his older brother before taking a bite of the ham. He chewed and swallowed, hoping it wouldn't come back up. Thankfully, it didn't. He relaxed a little, safe in the knowledge that it was just him and Hoss having a meal together. Maybe he could force himself to eat something.

Hoss watched Little Joe from across the table. He had seen how carefully his little brother had swallowed the tiny piece of ham. "Little Joe, I know something is upsetting you. Do you want to talk about it?"

Little Joe smiled disarmingly. "No Hoss, I'm fine. It's just a lot of things are happening at school. I just get caught up in them sometimes, that's all." He said, and running the recent trouble with Mr. Steadman through his mind he knew he was walking a fine line between avoiding the truth and lying.

"Are you sure? You know you can tell me anything."

Little Joe suppressed the urge to confess, but he knew it would upset his brother to know what he had been doing. "I know Hoss, but some things you just have to keep inside."

After supper Little Joe quickly escaped to his room, fearing the two oldest Cartwrights would come home early. As promised, Hoss diffused the situation with his father.

Later that evening, Adam and Hoss walked into the Bucket O’ Blood, one of the wilder saloons in Virginia City. They smiled at the few patrons and Adam held up two fingers to Clarence, the elderly bartender as they made their way over to the bar.

"Not many people about tonight, Clarence." Adam said, taking a sip from the cold beer the bartender had just set in front of him.

Hoss spun his beer around so the handle faced him. "Adam it is a Tuesday night. I don’t know what you expected."

"Even for a Tuesday night there’s usually more people around than this." Adam said, turning and surveying the almost empty saloon.

Clarence looked up from drying the glass in his hand. "Everybody is down at the International House."

The Cartwright brothers turned and looked at the elderly bartender. "The International House," they replied in unison.

"Whatever for." Hoss said with a quizzical look on his face. The bar in the International House was a very sedate place that usually drew old gentlemen looking for a quiet drink.

Adam took a sip of his beer. "I knew it was under new management shortly before I left, but I didn't realize that Samuel Sloan was such a good businessman. I know he came all the way from St. Louis, I suppose he brought some kind of entertainment with him?"

"Well, I won't say they brought him with, in my opinion I think he's more of some home grown talent if you get my meaning." Clarence said.

Hoss and Adam looked at each other. "Fraid I don't understand." Hoss said scratching his head.

"They got some fancy kid playing poker in the Carlton suite beating the pants off grown men. From what I hear people are coming in from all over the territory to try their luck."

Adam laughed. "You've got to be joking?"

"I wish I was," Clarence said gesturing around the room. "But I’m not."

"How long has this been going on? Adam said.

"Hm," Clarence said, fingering his chin. "Started about a month ago, I reckon."

"Who is he?" Hoss said.

"Don’t rightly know, nobody’ll say." Clarence said adding the dry glass to the mirrored shelf on the wall behind him. "they just call him the Dixie Kid."

"Now this I have to see." Adam said shaking his head and laughing.

"I don’t think you’ll have much luck." Clarence said, picking up the next glass.

Adam looked at Hoss before turning his attention to the older gentleman. "Why not?"

"From what I hear tell, Steve Garner hand picks who gets to play the kid, and he’s mighty particular about who he lets in."

Hoss took the last swallow from his beer, and set the empty mug on the well-polished bar. "I don’t like the sound of this Adam."

"Neither do I." Adam said draining his beer.

"Say, that Garner’s a good friend of your little brother isn’t he?" Clarence said leaning on the bar and facing the two men.

Adam tossed a couple of coins to Clarence. "Unfortunately yes, I haven’t been able to break Joe of that bad habit, although I have tried."

"Aw Adam, Steve ain’t a bad sort. He just has a habit of getting into trouble."

"And he usually drags our little brother along with."

"Now I wouldn’t really be sure who is dragging who in most situations." Hoss said, knowing that Joe was much more of a leader than a follower.

"I agree that our baby brother is quite capable of finding trouble all on his own. I wouldn’t mind so much if Little Joe were closer in age to that bunch. But most of them are ten years older, and Joe is just too young to be involved in a lot of the stuff they get into." Adam said drumming his fingers on the bar.

Adam and Hoss left the bar and walked down the dusty street. Hoss shuffled along, his hands stuffed deeply in his pockets. Naturally shy, he didn't like going into new places where it was unlikely he would know a soul.

Adam was five feet ahead of his younger brother before he noticed. He turned and looked at Hoss and noticed his hesitant steps. "C’mon hurry up. We haven’t got all night to screw around like this."

Hoss stopped walking. "I really don’t want to do this. Let’s head home. We got a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

Adam rolled his eyes and walked slowly back to where his brother stood. "We won’t stay long. I promise."

"But Adam…" Hoss said scrunching up his face.

"I promise." Adam said, his dark eyes cajoling. "Besides, I heard that Mary Edwards works at the International House now. He smiled as Hoss’ eyes lit up. "you could go over and buy her a drink."

Hoss decided quickly. "Alright, we’ll see this Dixie Kid and then have one drink. Then home-OK?"

A slow grin split Adams face "that’s all I’ve wanted to do." He slapped his brother on the back and continued up the street.

Tom Logan, leaned on the railing out front of the International House. He was bored. It was his turn to watch the street for any unwelcome visitors, but it was definitely less exciting than what went on inside. He saw two men in the distance walking down the street. He squinted trying to make out who they were, but they were just too far away. He sat on the bench next to the front door and chewed on a toothpick. Another hour, he thought to himself. Then old Cal will come out and spell me. He rubbed his hands together trying to work the chill out of them. At least it wasn’t too cold, and all the buildings grouped so close together blocked out most of the wind. He looked across the street at the dark buildings, the Territorial Enterprise, Carl Layton, attorney at law. There was where he would be in the morning anyway. He and his father had ranch business to take care of, and Carl was the family lawyer. His older brother Bart who usually handled most of the ranch details, was in Yuma and his father felt his younger son should sit in on occasion. He had done it in the past so it wasn’t a novelty to him. He would have rather helped with the other work on the ranch. He rubbed his eyes and pushed his straight dark brown hair out of his eyes. Damn, I needed a haircut. He kicked his feet up on the railing and crossed his legs. He heard a crunch of a boot on the bottom step and was shocked to see Hoss and Adam climbing the stairs. He jumped to his feet and stood in front of the entrance.

"Adam," Tom smiled warily. "Didn’t realize you were home." He said and stuck out his hand.

"Adam took the outstretched hand and shook it. "I’m glad to be back. Didn’t realize you cared that much Tom."

Tom chuckled nervously before turning to Hoss. "Always good to see you too Hoss."

Hoss nodded in return.

Adam tried to advance to the doorway but Tom backed up until he was leaning against the door.

Tom stammered. "What d’you want to go in here for boys? I kinda thought the Bucket O’ Blood or The Silver Dollar was more to your liking." Tom said, trying to smile but not succeeding.

Hoss and Adam exchanged glances as they looked at the husky man obviously in discomfort before them.

Hoss however, was tired of the foolishness and quick to anger. He elbowed Adam out of the way and stood in front of the shorter man. "We aim to go in here and look around. Now move aside before I get mad."

Tom looked up into Hoss’ eyes and patted the front of the leather vest right before him. "Now Hoss, there ain’t no cause to get yourself riled up." Tom said smiling.

Hoss wasn’t willing to let it go. "Tom we ain’t had a fight since we was in school together. And I ain’t anxious to start one now. But I will if you don’t step aside."

Tom swallowed the lump in his throat. He saw the fire in Hoss’ eyes and knew he was serious. Tom snaked his hand behind his back and turned the doorknob. He barely caught himself as the door swung open into the lobby of the International House. He recovered quickly and ran to the foot of the staircase. He looked over at the door and called. "Cal. Cal. Get over here." He leaned on the newel post, trying to keep his eyes from darting to the doorway.

Hoss and Adam walked through the doorway. It had changed since they had been here last. As Tom had said they usually favored the Bucket O’ Blood, the clientele here was usually a little more tame than they liked. The front desk was directly to their right, and the saloon was straight ahead. To their left was an open arch beneath the staircase, which led to several, meeting rooms where town business was usually held. The carpet beneath their feet was a new burgundy color, and the wallpaper now had a blue and gold stripe running down it.

Steve Garner opened the door to the suite at the top of the stairs and stepped into the hallway. "What in tarnation are you yelling about?" Seeing the visitors below, he carefully shut the door behind him before slowly walking down the stairs and walking over to his friend. "Tom, Tom, settle down. What’s the problem?" Steve said smiling.

Tom took a deep breath to try and calm down. "These two want to see the Dixie Kid."

Steve shrugged and walked over to the Cartwright brothers. "Adam, Hoss good to see you," he said, shaking hands with each.

Adams eyes narrowed. Steve Garner was and had always been a smooth talker. To anyone who hadn’t had dealings with him before they wouldn’t have noticed the nervous drumming of his fingertips against his leg. But having extracted his baby brother from trouble numerous times that dealt with Steve, Adam noticed. And to him, that nervous habit signaled deception. "Like Tom said, we’d like to see the Dixie Kid."

"I’d love to Adam, but we’re just not in the habit of showing our little goldmine to just anyone who happens along." Steve said trying to keep an innocent look on his face.

Hoss’ mood hadn’t improved. "Happens along" Hoss said, grabbing the front of Steve’s shirt. "Why you little…"

Adam patted Hoss’ arm. "turn him loose."

"But Adam.." Hoss said glaring at his older brother.

Adam spoke coolly "Let him go I said."

Reluctantly, Hoss did as he was told. "Dagburnit."

Adam smiled. He was glad Hoss usually followed his direction without question. A habit he wished Little Joe would imitate but he was certain it would never happen. His two younger brothers were as different as night and day. Hoss level headed and calm, always thinking his way through a situation before proceeding. That is unless a baby brother had convinced him to do something. Little Joe, on the other hand was impulsive, hotheaded, and always ready to jump into any situation regardless of the consequences. "Well how about you make this one exception for us then Steve." Adam said.

"I'd really like to, but I can't." He jerked his thumb in the direction of the saloon. "Part of the deal with Mr. Sloan in there. Only the players can see the kid. He said something about it adding to the mystery." Steve said.

Adam stared into Steve's eyes. He was either telling the truth or this was a very well thought out scheme. He could sense his baby brother's hand in it. "Fine. Then we'll talk to Mr. Sloan" Adam said turning to walk into the saloon.

Steve chuckled softly, but the sound of it rang hollow to Adam's ears. "Sorry Adam, but you really can't do that either. Not tonight anyway. He's closing some big business deal right now and he's leaving first thing in the morning. I think he'll be back on Thursday though."

Adam walked back and stood in front of the younger man. He longed to wipe the smug grin off his face. Adam spoke through gritted teeth. "This all seems so well-rehearsed my friend. You know why I'm here. If I found out Little Joe is involved in this, I’ll be back to settle this with you."

"That goes double for me. " Hoss said. "C'mon Adam, lets have a drink."

The two oldest Cartwright brothers drank in silence for several minutes before speaking. Both men leaned on the bar, discussing the unsatisfactory conclusion of their talk with Steve Garner.

"Maybe we’re wrong Adam."

"I don’t know."

"You and I checked on him before we left. He was in his bed. I know you don’t think he waited for us to look then high-tailed it in here. There just wasn’t time." Hoss said, shaking his head.

"You’re right, you’re right. I just can’t shake the feeling he’s putting one over on us though." Adam said looking at a dark haired saloon girl who had just come down the stairs.

"Wouldn’t be the first time and won’t be the last I’m sure." Hoss looked around at the crowd. "Although I would like to know why they are so dang hostile to us in here. I don’t think I’ve gotten as many dirty looks in my life. "

"You know it is odd. I feel the same way." Adam said looking at his brother. "But I’ve gotten three offers to go have a drink at the Bucket of Blood."

"You reckon they want us out of here?"

"It stands to reason doesn’t it? If our little brother is the card shark upstairs and drawing this many people into town on a Wednesday night. If that Sloan is smart, and I’m sure he is, I wouldn’t want my racket spoiled by meddling family members."

"Lets head home. I’m tired and we’re not going to find out much tonight." Hoss said, eager to go home.

CHAPTER 2

Wednesday

Sheriff Roy Coffee sat behind the timeworn desk in his office. He watched Adam Cartwright pace back and forth he explained why he had decided to come to Virginia City. The subject was as usual Little Joe. Roy couldn't count the times when he had caught Little Joe up to some mischief and hauled the boy out to the Ponderosa. The first lesson he had learned was when the boy was about seven years old. Once the youngster was caught, you never took your hands off him or he would be gone. There wasn't a man around that could catch the youngest Cartwright when he was running, the fleet footed little scamp. It also sounded to Roy that Joe was up to his usual mischief.

"What do you think Roy, could this Dixie kid be Little Joe."

"What makes you think that?" Roy said putting his arms behind his head.

"It just fits so neatly," Adam said, pacing. "Southern charm, young kid, Steve Garner and his bunch doing all the approving of card players."

Roy stroked his chin, "Yes, I’d say it sounds suspicious. But we have no proof."

"I know, I know." Adam said stopping to stand in front of the desk.

"You know of any other kid in town who could pull this off?" Adam asked.

Roy shrugged. "Not that I can think of. Have you said anything to Ben?"

Adam shook his head. "No, and I’d appreciate it if you didn’t either. I want to be sure. This time I’m going to catch my baby brother red-handed."

"Good luck, he’s a slippery one."

"Don’t I know it."

"I have done some checking into it Adam, a mite suspicious myself. I have to confess it never crossed my mind that it could be Little Joe though."

"What did you find out?"

"No one outside of Garner’s cronies, the people that run the International House, and the players have seen him. Not even the saloon gals will say anything about him, and you know how they talk."

"There isn’t anyone new in town is there?"

"No, and whoever it is, he must be staying at the hotel, because no kid leaves it."

"Or, he’s getting out one of the upstairs windows."

"Never thought of that, but possible. Long drop from that roof to the street though. Fella could hurt himself pretty bad if he wasn’t careful."

"So it must be someone local. They call him the Dixie Kid, you know anyone hereabouts with any southern blood."

"You mean other than Little Joe? You know the answer to that. No." Roy said, smoothing his eyebrows.

Adam sat down on the corner of the desk. "And this all started right after I left, and Pa said himself he’s been real busy with the lumber contracts."

Roy nodded. "I know, I haven’t hardly seen Ben in over a month."

"Plus, no one from the Ponderosa or the Lazy K is allowed in. What does that tell you?"

"Well, if I was a betting man…"

"Which we both know you aren’t, or you’d be down at those crazy horse races like everyone else in town."

Roy chuckled. "Like I said, if I was a betting man, I’d bet that they don’t want any of the Cartwrights or the Logans to find out who the Dixie Kid really is."

"You know that if any of Charlie Logan’s hands found out that it was Little Joe, the first thing they’d do is head to the Ponderosa and alert Pa. Kind of makes sense keeping them out then doesn’t it?" Adam said.

"Yeah, I can’t fault your logic, Adam, but then I rarely can. But the thing is, what are you going to do about it."

Adam put his black hat on his head, and turned to leave. "I’m going to catch him, that’s what."

Little Joe was laying face down across his bed trying to put his problems out of his mind. The argument with his father earlier over his bedtime showed how irritable Joe had become. He had to get some sleep or the jig was up. Now that Adam was home and his father’s deal with the Yellow Jacket mine was finished, they’d be keeping a much closer eye on him.

A sharp rap on his door drew his attention, and he muttered "Come in."

His oldest brother walked through the door and walked over to the bed. He lay down next to the boy on the bed. "Pa tells me things have been awful quiet around here since I’ve been gone."

"I suppose." Little Joe answered not looking at his brother.

"So why don’t you tell me what has been going on in your life?"

"Same thing as always. School, chores, sleep. Nothing exciting happens to me ever." Little Joe said trying to remain calm and detached.

If Adam had been just listening to his young brother he would have almost believed him. But sometimes Little Joe’s body language gave away more than his words. He noticed his brother’s breathing had quickened, and he had started to bite his lower lip. A dead giveaway. "No trouble at school or anything?"

Little Joe shook his head.

Adam gently took Joe’s left hand and pointed at the fading shadow of the ruler across the knuckles. "Then what’s this?"

His young brother gave a quick grin before replying. "Oh, that. A little misunderstanding that’s all."

"Why don’t you enlighten me." Adam said dryly.

Little Joe knew that if he tried to lie Adam would catch him. He was too exhausted to come up with a believable story and figured the truth wasn’t really horrible anyway. "I fell asleep in old man Steadman’s class, and he woke me up with the ruler. That’s all."

Adam tilted his brother’s face up to meet his, needing to read Little Joe’s eyes to ensure he was telling the truth. Satisfied that he was, Adam continued. "Well it’s no wonder you fell asleep. You look dead on your feet. Have you been having nightmares again?"

"No." Little Joe answered.

"Then I don’t understand what the problem is. I can tell just by looking at the circles under your eyes that you aren’t sleeping. Joe, just tell me." Little Joe crossed his arms on the bed and lay his head down. When Adam realized he wasn’t going to get an answer from the boy, he started to get irritated. "Are you involved with that Steve Garner bunch again?"

"Let it lie Adam. I’ll take care of it."

"That bunch is always getting into trouble. Don’t you realize they’ll drag you down with them too?" Adam said in the irritating big brother tone that Joe hated.

"I really don’t want to talk about it." Joe said softly.

"I don’t care if you want to talk about it or not, we’re going to. Don’t you remember last year when they let that greased pig loose in the dance. And the fight that it caused afterwards."

Little Joe was unable to hide the snicker that escaped his lips.

"You think that’s funny huh? Do you think the three days they spent in jail was fun? I don’t know how you weren’t along on that escapade. It sounded like something you would think up."

"Just leave me alone." Little Joe said, putting one fist on top of the other and resting his chin on top.

Adam got up from the bed, and smacked Little Joe sharply on the seat of his pants.

"Hey that isn’t fair," Joe protested rubbing his behind.

"No it wasn’t fair. And this conversation isn’t over either." Adam said slamming the door as he left.

He went down the steps, rubbing his head as he walked. He flopped into an oxblood leather armchair directly across from Hoss and leaned back against the cushioned headrest.

Hoss stood up and looked around to make sure they are alone. "You get anything out of him?"

Shaking his head, Adam said "No, but I will."

"You know Adam, maybe you should just tell Pa what you’re thinking about that Steve Garner and his buddies. We might be a whole lot better off."

"No, I’ll handle it my own way. Knowing Joe, he’d probably wheedle out of any punishment anyway."

"Adam, he ain’t a bad kid. He’s just high-spirited, that’s all."

"I know, I know. But I want to break that high spirit before it gets him into major trouble."

Hoss shook his head. "Don’t you think he’s smarter than that?"

"I’m sure you’re not speaking on behalf of his track record." Adam said thinking of just a few of Little Joe's past offenses.

"I do think that Little Joe does a fair part of the leading in that bunch. Some of the things they do are just too inventive for the rest of them."

"I just wish he would put some of that effort into his school work." Adam looked into Hoss' eyes. "He's so smart, but he just doesn't apply himself. Except to make up alibis"

"Now Adam," Hoss began "You know he don’t lie. He just avoids parts of the truth that could get him into trouble."

"I know, I know. But I tell you, if what I suspect is going on, he's going to get the whipping of a lifetime. I'll make sure of that." Adam said coolly steepling his fingers and resting his chin on the tip.

I really don't see how you think he's sneaking into town. You know there ain't no way he can get out of his room except down the stairs. It wasn’t an accident Pa put him in the East bedroom," Hoss said.

"I know," Adam said fixing his steely eyed gaze on his brother, "but you know Little Joe. If there is a way out, he’ll find it."

"That’s a twenty foot drop out of his window. He’s just not getting out. So quit worrying about it."

"You know he always has had more nerve than sense." Adam said, rising from his chair and going over to the fireplace.

Adam turned and looked at Hoss. "I hate to say it, but if he had come clean I was prepared to just stop the game and let it go, just the kindly older brother I suppose. Well, I guess we’ll have to do it the hard way then."

Hoss chuckled "The only way Little Joe knows is the hard way, so this shouldn't be any different."

Steve and Little Joe stood outside the door to the suite at the International House.

"Who are the next lambs to the slaughter?" Little Joe said, eager to continue the run of luck he had been having. He pushed open the door and walked inside.

"Wait a minute, wait a minute, Steve said, grabbing Little Joe by the arm and steering him back to the doorway. "Let me give you a little background on your fellow players." He glanced over to the table, and said softly. "OK the big one with the red hair. They call him Lightning Jack. Plays clean, from what I hear but has a bad temper and doesn't like to lose." He leaned closer, his voice now a whisper. "The gypsy with the black hair and the dark eyes. Watch out for him. I almost didn't let him in, but he flashed a roll of bills in front of me that I couldn't resist. He's kind of spooky though." Steve wiped a film of sweat off his forehead before continuing. " I don't know. His eyes seem to be constantly moving. It made me nervous. I kept waiting for someone to come up behind me."

Little Joe turned and glanced over at the table. "And the other guy? The old one in the brown shirt?"

"Farmer, near as I can tell. Kind of strange, that kind doesn't seem to like to gamble, but he seems harmless."

"Okay, I have been duly warned. Let’s see if lady luck continues to be kind", he rubbing his hands together eagerly.

"Why are we going back here Adam? Nobody much liked us here the last time." Hoss said.

"Because The International House is where we’ll get our answers. We’re going to find that Sloan and try and get real close to him. See if he does any talking about what is going on upstairs." Adam said, the plan already formed in his mind.

Adam pushed open the door and the music and laughter from the saloon invaded the still night air.

They walked in and saw Sloan, his black hair streaked with gray at the temples seated at a table with Ed Jeffries. As luck would have it, they were sitting right next to the window that opened up to the alley on the North side of the building. Adam motioned Hoss outside, where they crouched beside the window and listened.

"I can’t believe how many people have come to town to try and get a chance at playing the boy upstairs. Why the money is just rolling in."

Taking a long draw from his beer, "Yeah, you're right. That kid is a goldmine." Sam Sloan said glancing around the room.

"I don’t like the idea of his Pa ever finding out though. There will be hell to pay." Ed said taking a sip from his cup.

"Yeah, I know. But it was the kid’s idea. He could have gone to the other saloon and pitched his deal there just as easily."

"You know that ain’t true. Old Jerry Buckley from the Bucket O' Blood is a friend of his fathers. If he even suggested it, Jerry would’ve grabbed him by the shirt collar and marched him home." Ed said.

"Well then, we’ll just thank the lord for small favors won’t we."

"I don’t know Sam, sometimes I think we’re taking advantage of the boy."

"I can’t believe you just said that. The deal that boy cut isn't fair all right. He definitely got the better of me. He takes after his Pa and that older brother of his in his bargaining." Sam said chuckling. "Little snot-nosed brat."

"Still, I don’t think the sheriff would like it one lick if he found out what is going on."

"We just won’t let him find out then will we. Quit being so softhearted. I know he goes to school with your son, but it just isn't the same. "

"I just keep thinking about what Frank told me yesterday. The boy just isn't himself in school anymore. All this nightlife is just plumb wearing the kid out. "

"He’s young he can handle it." Sloan said.

"I just hope you can handle yourself when his old man finds out. I think you’re seriously underestimating how much they protect that boy."

Sloan shook his head "For being so young he sure knows how to handle himself."

"Well, there is such a thing as natural talent. I can tell you that he never learned to play cards that way from his Pa. And for a beginner he sure knows how to act around the ladies. He's got them all convinced to not say a word to anyone who asks about him. That baby face and southern boy charm sure goes a long way." Jeffries said chuckling. "How much you figure he pulls in a night?"

Sloan thought for a moment as he stroked his chin. "Course depends on whose come to town to play him. A lot of them fancy fellas that come in have the most money to drop. I’d reckon total he averages in about a thousand a night. Then of course he splits it with those friends of his, and I get my third."

"What do you suppose they’re doing with all that money?" Jeffries said.

"Did you see that new mare Steve Garner got? That had to cost a pretty penny."

"I don’t think the kid’s doing much of anything with it. I mean it ain’t like they’re exactly starving out on a ranch that size."

"Enough of a break, let's get back to work." Sloan said. The two men stood and walked back toward the main office.

Adam and Hoss crouched very still in their place outside the window.

"I don’t like this Adam. Things just fit too neatly together. The southern boy charm, the ranch, it has to be Joe." Hoss whispered.

"I’ve been telling you that all along. I can just sense when that boy is up to mischief sometimes."

Hoss and Adam stood up and stretched. They walked around to the front of the building, and were almost knocked down by a dark-haired gypsy who was thrown out of the International House.

"Take all my money-I'll get you boy. I curse you, Dixie Kid the ancient curse of my forefathers" the gypsy shouted. Then he spun around three times and spit on the ground, and stalked off up the street.

Adam grabbed his brother and whispered "You know Hoss, this might be our opportunity to get some information on the Dixie Kid."

Nodding his answer Hoss said. "I think you’re right."

Adam, Hoss and the man they have come to know as Simon were sitting at a table in the Bucket O' Blood. The Cartwright brothers were slowly sipping beers, but their new friend had downed half a bottle of whiskey, and was now drinking beer. His mood had gotten better.

"So this little scrap of a kid took all my money. I still can’t believe it. That was money I was going to buy a new wagon with, but now it’s all gone." He said, resting his head on the rim of his half-full beer mug.

Adam glanced at his brother over the drunken man’s head. He couldn't help but notice that the man no longer sounded or acted like a gypsy. "So what did he look like anyway?"

"The boy?" Simon said, raising his head slightly.

Hoss rolled his eyes. "No the …" was all he could get out before he felt Adam’s boot colliding with his shin.

"Yes, the boy," Adam answered.

Simon drained the last drop from his beer. "Talking makes a man mighty thirsty you know."

"I know," Adam answered, holding up three fingers to the bartender.

Simon waited until the beer was in front of him before continuing his story. "Pretty little fella, real innocent looking. I shoulda known though, there was the devil dancing in them green eyes of his."

"Green eyes, you say. Well that fits anyway. What color was his hair?" Hoss said.

"Brown, curly on the top, and then wavy on the sides." Simon said, taking another drink. "Damn the brat-kid that age out at this hour. Its gotta be what midnight?"

Adam glanced at the clock on behind the bar and said dryly. "Try three o’clock."

"Three o’clock, see I told you." Pointing at the Cartwright brothers with a none-too-clean finger. "Oughtta be home in bed."

"Reckon he should." Hoss said.

"Well the gypsy curse I put on him will take care of him. You can count on it." Simon said, dipping his finger into his beer and swirling it.

Hoss gulped. "Just what kind of curse is this you put on him."

"Ain’t that boy got no family? What kind of father lets a kid out running around town at all hours of the night." Simon said, choosing not to answer Hoss' question.

"Did they call him by name?" Adam said, determined to get to end of this tale before first light.

"Hm, let me think. Yeah, they did. The big guy by the door called him Little Joe." Simon said.

Hoss stood up and slammed his beefy fist on the table, drawing all eyes in the room in their direction. "Damn him. I feel like going over there right now and taking out some of my anger on a scrawny little brother."

Adam walked over and put his arm around his brother. "Calm down, calm down." He said soothingly. "I have a plan, and if you go getting all riled up, Joe’ll know something is up."

"You’re right, you’re right." Hoss said shaking his head. He took a deep breath which calmed him somewhat. "I’ll take it easy, but when we do catch him, I’ll have a few choice words to say to that youngun. Little snot is too big for his britches."

Adam slung his jacket over his shoulder, and they started to leave. He stopped and turned as they were ready to walk out the door. "Oh by the way, Simon. We are his family. And he’ll get what’s coming to him, I assure you." He tipped his hat to the gypsy and walked out the door.

Steve and Joe walked slowly through the trees on the way to the Ponderosa. He had told the other members of their group to head home, but if truth be told he just didn't trust the gypsy that they had beaten in the poker game earlier in the evening. Since he had let the guy play against his own better judgement, he felt responsible and had insisted on walking Joe to the ranch house.

Little Joe picked up the pace trying to make his friend go faster.

"You call this a path?" Steve complained. "I'm never going to be able to find my way back." he said, trying to memorize the twists and turns through the undergrowth and snowdrifts. He stopped and looked up, trying to find the reassuring orb of the moon, glad that he had fixed its place in the sky before starting the trek.

"I told you I come this way sometimes because there isn’t much chance of being seen."

"Much! A man’d have to be crazy to try and come this way."

"Come on Steve, try walking a little faster."

"Not so fast," Steve called watching Little Joe sure-footedly skip through the obstacles. Every tree and bush seemed to have a mind of its own to Steve, it seemed a minute didn't go by between slaps in the face from overgrown bushes.

Little Joe stopped and waited for his friend. "Be careful, there is an overgrown tree root right"

"Whumf," came from the direction of Steve, and he was face down on the leaf-strewn carpet.

"There."

"Thanks for telling me." Steve said, propping himself up on one elbow. "You do realize that the whole concept of advance warning means telling me before I trip over it."

"Sorry." Little Joe said, unable to help the chuckle that escaped him.

Steve got to his knees and brushed the snow and pine needles from his clothes. "You know I'm a much better leader than a follower."

Little Joe put his hands on his hips and laughed softly. "I certainly hope so."

"Ha ha funny. How much further is it?" Steve said, finally climbing to his feet.

"Not too far, you'll see. I'll slow down, I promise. Okay?" Joe said with a smile.

Knowing he had no choice, Steve said. "Yeah, sure. Lead on."

They walked in silence for a few minutes, the sounds of the forest crowding in on them, the crickets, owls and screams of the night hunting animals filling the darkness.

"Are you sure you know where you are going?" Steve said.

"Of course I do, Little Joe said raising his head. For instance don't venture too far to your left. There is a patch of wild roses there, and I don't want you to get cut."

Steve stopped immediately. He took several exaggerated steps to the right before continuing.

Little Joe stopped and couldn't contain the laughter. The sound echoed through the forest, sounding strange and foreign on the night air.

Continuing on their journey, they went down a slight slope and came to a stream bed about thirty feet wide, the remnant of the flooding season. A creek flowing down the center stretched eight feet across, bordered on each side by low growing canthus bushes, and various species of plants. Large rocks, which served as stepping-stones dotted the surface of the water, the current too swift to freeze even in the winter.

Turning to Steve, Little Joe said. "Be careful. It's only about 3 feet deep, but the rocks are slippery."

"Don't worry about me, just go ahead."

Little Joe reached the edge of the stream and jumped to the first rock, balanced on 1 foot, wobbling several times almost falling into the water before he steadied himself. "See, nothing to it.," he called to his friend. He gracefully jumped from rock to rock, and scrambled up the steep rise on the other side, grabbing at low growing bushes to ease his way. At the top, he stared down at Steve, who hadn't started across yet, but was staring at the stream and shaking his head.

"You could turn back you know. I'll be fine from here."

Although he couldn't see him on the bank, Steve looked in the general direction of the voice before responding.

"No way. I'm not taking any chances with our unhappy loser possibly nearby. On top of it all, I might as well admit that the only way I'm going to get back to town is to come out on the other side and follow the road back." Steve said, pacing up and down beside the stream.

"But that's twice as long. You won't get back before first light."

"I know but at least I'll get back."

Little Joe shook his head knowing better than to try and argue with his friend. It usually did no good. He sat on the bank, his legs dangling off the edge. "Do you think you'll be able to cross tonight? I kind of have plans tomorrow."

"I'm coming, I'm coming. Just hold on." Steve retreated to the far end of the dry streambed and measured the distance as best he could in the dim filtered light. Taking a deep breath, he took off toward the stream, running at top speed. When he reached the edge of the water, he hurled himself in the air, taking a big leap to try and cross it in one jump. His lead foot hit dry ground, but when the heel came down it hit water. The other foot cleared the stream, and he hopped up on the bed shaking his wet foot before continuing the conversation.

"As I was saying, If I try to find my way back through here, I'll be lost and I won't find my way back at all. I'd sure hate to have one of your brothers finding me wandering. So right about now, a guaranteed first light sounds good to me." He climbed the bank and sat down beside Little Joe to rest briefly.

A few minutes passed, Little Joe nervously watching the clouds cross the face of the moon. Joe stood up and brushed the snow from seat of his pants "All right lets go. We have to be quieter on this side of the stream. Sound travels a long way, and we're close to the edge of the woods. Sometimes Pa takes a walk on the outskirts of the forest, so watch me and where you step. Okay?"

"Okay, don't worry. I'll be quiet." Steve said, wearily climbing to his feet.

They walked slower now, watching each step in their efforts to be silent, Steve following directly behind Little Joe. Each time the crack of a broken branch, or the rustle of pine needles from underfoot was heard behind him, Joe turned and gave his friend a dirty look.

"I don't see why we have to be so quiet.." Steve said softly.

The edge of the forest came as a surprise, one moment they were in dense brush, and the next they were on the outskirts of the forest, a clearing before them. The outline of the house painted against the night sky was about one hundred yards away. They noticed light emanating from the visible windows. Both men immediately crouched behind a low growing evergreen.

Steve looked quizzically at his young friend. "Who's awake?"

Motioning for his friend to be quiet, both men crouched at the edge of the woods, and watched for movement inside the windows.

"That's Pa's window on the left. Hoss' is next to it." Little Joe thought a moment before continuing. "What would they be doing up at this hour?"

"Not waiting for you I hope?" Steve said as a shudder ran through him.

Little Joe shook his head, unable to control the quake in his voice. "Don't even say that. That would be all I'd need tonight."

"No use sitting here wondering about it. We better get going." Steve said.

Little Joe took a deep breath, before answering. "This is where it gets a little tricky."

Steve stared at his friend. "Gets a little tricky? After all we've been through tonight, now it gets tricky. What was this lovely trek through the forest of hell? A walk in a garden?" he said unable to control the tone of his voice.

Little Joe hid a smirk as he turned to look at the taller man. "Shhh not so loud. I told you, sound carries a long way here. Why don't you just go back to Virginia City now. Follow the line of the trees to the road. I'll be fine."

"No way. With the way lady luck is frowning on me tonight, that cursed gypsy is waiting to jump on you as soon as I leave. So, my friend, until I see you safe inside the house, I'm not convinced you'll be okay." Steve said rising.

Little Joe put his hand on Steve's forearm, stopping him. "No really, this isn't necessary. I can take care of myself. I come this way every once in a while."

Steve thought a moment. The way to the house was clear. If he stayed right here, he could watch Little Joe all the way. He'd be close enough to stop trouble if it appeared. He probably was over-reacting to that curse from the gypsy anyway. "All right-you go ahead. But I'll be here until I see that skinny butt of yours climb through your bedroom window. But if I start to hear your Pa yelling, I'm going to run so fast it would make your head spin."

CHAPTER 3

Friday

A cold nose nuzzled his neck, which brought Joe back to consciousness. All seemed fine. Except for the dusting of snow that covered his body and the fact that he was laying on the ground. He wondered how long he had been here and if he was going to be in trouble. Pa was usually very mad when he was late coming home from school. He tried to move his right arm, and pain exploded in his shoulder. He looked up and saw Cochise standing beside him. Realization came slowly and he dropped his head into his hands. He couldn't believe he was stupid enough to go to sleep on his horse and then fall off. Damn. He looked around and was dismayed to see the darkness edging the trees indicating nightfall wouldn’t be far behind.

Joe was in a small clearing in the forest, surrounded by large pine trees. The grass grew here, the sunlight bright enough to come through the trees. At least his luck had held and he hadn't been on Rocking Chair butte when it happened. He could be in a lot worse shape. Little Joe leaned back on a large rock, willing the pain to go away. It didn't work. After resting for a few minutes, he carefully mounted Cochise for the long trip home, whispering a quick prayer that Pa wouldn't be home when he got there. Hopefully he could slip up to his room unnoticed.

A large fire burned brightly in the stone fireplace, it’s warmth welcome on the cold winter night. The flames cast shadows around the room aided by the lamp on the table. After supper, the Cartwright men lounged around in the living room.

Little Joe was sitting on the couch reading The Three Musketeers, a book Adam has given him three months ago for his fifteenth birthday. Joe took a deep breath and let it out slowly. His luck had held so far, no one had noticed he held his arm stiffly and wasn't talking as much as usual. The throbbing in his shoulder and back was making it almost as hard as the conversation going on in front of him to make him sit still.

Ben slapped the front page of the newspaper he was reading, "It says here the man who's riding "Indian Runner" tomorrow comes all the way from St. Louis."

"Who is representing Virginia City, Pa?" Adam said taking a seat across from his father on the couch, before setting his cup on the table between them.

"Doesn't say. Never does. Only that he's riding a mare named Godspeed." Ben fumed. "Turning this town into a side show they are. If I told them once, I told them a thousand times, you let that kind of sport into a mining town like Virginia City, all sorts of trash comes with it. " Ben said getting to his feet, and paced back and forth "I have half a mind to .."

"Now Pa, calm down. I know you're upset about all this, but it doesn't help to get all fired up. Why don't you and I head into town on Monday and talk to the sheriff about this. Maybe there is some legal way to get this stopped." Adam said. He happened to turn and glance at his two younger siblings and was surprised to see them exchange worried glances. Little Joe seemed to sink even further into the soft upholstery, and he noticed how pale he was. Hoss swallowed several times and ran his fingers through his hair nervously. Was something else going on that he had missed? If it was, Hoss was definitely involved.

"You're right as usual son." Ben said shaking his head. "But it still makes me so angry."

Hoss stood up and stretched. "I'm really tired. I think I'll hit the hay. See you all tomorrow."

Little Joe slowly climbed to his feet, and carefully shut the book he had been reading. "Yeah, me too. I'll go up with you Hoss." He carefully kept his eyes averted, so not to give anything away.

After they had left the room Ben turned to his oldest son and said. "What do you suppose that was all about."

"I don't know, but I think we might want to go to town tomorrow and see what is so all fired exciting about those races. Plus it won't hurt to check up on the two of them tomorrow, see what else they do besides get supplies."

"What makes you think they do anything, son?"

"Let's just say I have a hunch." Adam said smiling.

CHAPTER 4

Saturday

Hoss knocked once on Little Joe's door before entering. He looked at the empty bed and swore softly.

"I'm over here Hoss." Little Joe said from his place on the window seat. He was dressed only in his blue and white striped nightshirt, his bare feet dangling out beneath the hem. The open window let the morning breeze wash in over him, and the cold numbed the pain somewhat. He would've liked to risk sneaking down and getting some brandy during the night to ease the pain, but the risk was just too great. He had sat here all night, hoping to sleep but had never succeeded in drifting off for more than a few minutes at a time.

Hoss hurried to the window and shut it. "Boy what are you doing." He touched his younger brother's cheek. "You're plumb frozen."

Little Joe stood up slowly. "I'm fine." He said, teeth chattering.

"No you ain't. I'm going to get Pa right now." Hoss said, turning to leave.

Little Joe put a restraining hand on Hoss' forearm. "C'mon, I'm fine. I'll get ready right now and we'll go. I just lost track of time, that's all."

Hoss was torn. He looked at his little brother closely. "You don't look fine. I don't know that you're up to riding Godspeed this morning. She's a feisty little filly. "

"Of course I am. Don't worry about me. You're just afraid that you'll lose your money that's all." Little Joe said, hoping to make light of the condition Hoss had found him in.

"Joe." Hoss said, his eyes wavering. He was torn between what he knew he should do and what he wanted to do.

"Dang it Hoss, I said I'm fine." He said pulling a pair of dark green pants from his drawer. "Now get downstairs and eat some breakfast. I'll be down in a minute and then we'll go."

"Are you sure?"

"Of course I'm sure." Little Joe smiled reassuringly "Get going."

Hoss sighed and left the room. Little Joe followed him to the door and shut it behind him. He listened until he could hear Hoss walk down the steps and then turned the key in the lock. Then he succumbed to the shivers that ran through him. Leaning against the door, he gritted his teeth against the pain, force of will making him not cry out. Closing his eyes seemed to help, and he took shallow breaths, trying to ignore the pain which was centered in his shoulder and radiated outward. His ribs were causing him some problems too, but not to the degree of his shoulder. After a few moments, he straightened up and walked slowly over to the mirror. He looked himself in the eye and forced a smile. "See, no problem. You can do this. You have to do this." His second try at a smile was a little better, and by the third time the smile reached his eyes. Little Joe let out the breath he had been holding. "Today will be fine." He said to the mirror, which didn't seem to care.

Virginia City

As Little Joe made the last turn around the Livery Stable which marked the Eastern boundary of the race, he glanced over at the other rider. The small man was in his late thirties with a shock of dark hair. He also had a very mean look on his face. Joe returned his attention to his horse. Godspeed was a good mount, a little skittish at first but she had settled right down. And she could run like the wind. The breakneck speed that they were riding at however drilled the pain deeper into his shoulder and ribs. Little Joe gritted his teeth and refused to give in to the pain.. Adam always said that Little Joe ran on excitement when there wasn't anything left and it was the truth. Nothing would stop him from winning this race.

A ribbon of fire sliced Little Joe’s back and shoulder as he rounded the last corner, the finish line in sight. He tried to keep his distance from the other rider's whip but the more experienced rider was determined to win by any means.

Hoss squinted trying to see who was in the lead. Both horses were black and approximately the same size. He ran over to the steps in front of the International House and climbed up two steps to get a better look. Hoss let out a whoop and threw his hat in the air when he finally saw Little Joe chestnut curls on the rider of the lead horse. Hooves flying Little Joe and Godspeed crossed the finish line three yards ahead of the competition.

Little Joe jumped off his horse and ran to Hoss. He threw himself into his big brothers waiting arms, sore shoulder forgotten in the excitement. The brothers jumped up and down together, ear-splitting grins on their faces. Little Joe grabbed his coat from Hoss and slips it on, then took his Hoss' ten-gallon hat and turned to the usually smug Jedidiah Dawson, the elderly owner of the Yellow Jacket Mine. The older man dropped several bills into the overlarge hat, all the while glaring at the two Cartwright brothers.

The old man pointed his finger at Little Joe and said. "You know I really ought to tell your Pa exactly what you are doing here. Boy your age riding like a madman."

Little Joe laughed and slapped his older brother on the shoulder. They were used to the old man's bad humor.

A familiar deep voice growled from behind them. "I assure you that won't be necessary."

Hoss face fell knowing immediately that his father was standing directly behind them.

Little Joe turned to Hoss and looked into his older brothers blue eyes before he said hopefully. "I don't suppose there is any chance you said that--is there?"

Hoss shook his head sadly before turning around. He spread his hands in a hopeless gesture and said. "Now Pa."

Joe remained staring straight ahead, unwilling to face the music. A large hand grabbed his uninjured shoulder and spun him around. He couldn't contain the gasp that escaped him when he got his first look at the fury on Pa's face. He bit his lip nervously before looking slightly to the left where Adam stood, anger running rampant in the dark eyes.

Ben managed to compose himself enough to speak again, although he couldn't control the clenching of his fists. "You should be ashamed. How long has this been going on?" He hissed.

Hoss and Little Joe studied their boots. Little Joe nudged Hoss.

Hoss gulped, and raised his eyes to meet Ben’s, "Well you see sir." Hoss' mouth continued to move, but no words came out.

"How long I said." Ben said, keeping his voice menacingly low.

"A couple months." Hoss finally finished.

Ben slapped his forehead with his palm. "A couple months. He pointed his finger at the crowd of men around them, who had the grace to look sheepish. "And you people knew too and didn’t tell me. All I heard this morning was about this great race, so much that I had to come and see for myself." He said his hands on his hips, yelling by now. "And then I see my fifteen year old son, did you hear me! Fifteen year old son riding around the corner by the Bucket O' Blood like there was a stampede behind him." Ben said, giving up all pretense of controlling his temper.

Simon Shuster, the owner of the livery stable stepped forward from the crowd and said, "Well Ben, we really didn’t think there was any harm."

"Any harm" Ben said incredulously "that rider is a professional, all the way from St. Louis if I read the paper right. You think that’s fair him riding against a boy?"

"But Ben, the fact is Little Joe usually wins." Calvin Hawkins, the owner of the Virginia City Bank said.

"I don’t care." Ben said, his eyes blazing "that isn’t the point. Is it Joseph."

Joe answered without looking up from studying the ground. "No sir." He was holding his hat in his hands and clutching it nervously.

Ben walked to his youngest son, anger apparent to the crowd in every step. "Look at me" he said lifting Joe's chin, and he saw the apprehension in his youngest son's eyes. He took Little Joe's arm and administered the first measure of discipline for the evening, a swift smack to the behind.

Little Joe grimaced, but stood still.

"Pa, It wasn't really his fault." Hoss started.

Ben returned to Hoss and berated his middle son.

The words all started to run together for Little Joe. He wasn't thinking very clearly, whether from the heat of the moment, or from the pain in his shoulder he didn't know. The first step backwards was almost a test., but he continued slowly inching his way backwards, mentally rationalizing his actions. "Hoss'll understand." He told himself. And he knew he was right. "I'm the one who's really going to get punished." He kept backing up, relieved to see he had retreated at least eight feet from the scene. A flicker of hope started to flare when he backed right into someone. He took a deep breath before slowly turning his head and seeing a sea of black behind him. He raised his gaze slowly until he met Adam's dark eyes.

"Going somewhere little brother?" Adam said menacingly.

Little Joe turned around to face the obstacle barring him from freedom. "Well, well you see Adam." Little Joe said, his voice cracking.

Adam grabbed Joe's arm and hauled him back to the center of the circle. "You almost lost one, Pa."

Ben looked up from Hoss and his gaze intensified. "Where do you think you were going boy."

Little Joe attempted to swallow the lump in his throat, and succeeded on the second try. He smiled his most disarming smile, "I thought I'd just get a little fresh air." He looked from Pa to Adam and back. "Sir."

Ben walked over to his baby son and grabbed the arm that Adam had just released. "I hope the you enjoyed the sites of Virginia City. Because it will be one hell of a long time before you are back here."

"Hoss, Adam follow me. We're going home." Ben said, not releasing the grip on his young son's arm.

Back at the Ponderosa, the two guilty culprits stood in front of the large desk in the alcove that served as Ben's study. Their father was too angry to occupy the leather chair behind the desk, but he stood behind it as he continued to loudly chastise his two younger boys. Adam was lounging in a chair trying to decide how he felt about the situation. On the one hand, he was glad that they had gotten caught before Little Joe had gotten hurt, but he did hate to see his father so upset.

"Well Pa, you never exactly said that Little Joe couldn’t race." Hoss said, scratching his head.

"Don't even start taking that road with me Hoss. Just because your brother follows my exact words and ignores the meaning doesn't mean you'll get away with it any more than he does." Ben seethed.

Little Joe, uncharacteristically silent, stood looking at the floor his hands clasped behind his back, nervously shifting his weight from one foot to the other every so often.

"Yes sir." Hoss said.

"All my talk about those riders getting hurt and how dangerous it was, never penetrated your head?" Ben paused thinking it over. "No don’t bother to answer that. You knew that I wouldn’t approve because you were so careful about hiding what you were doing."

"Yessum." Hoss answered.

"Well you, my middle son are too old to spank, but you Joseph."

Little Joe grimaced and raised his head, locking eyes with his father’s.

"Are not." Ben said pointing his finger at his youngest son.

"But Pa." Little Joe said trying but not succeeding in keeping the quake out of his voice. He backed up several steps.

"You heard me young man." Ben said coming around the corner of the desk. "Now get over there and bend over."

Little Joe dropped his head into his hands, trying in vain to think of any way to stop his punishment.

Hoss walked over to his brother and said sadly. "Better get it over with Little Joe. It ain't going to get any easier." Hoss nudged him toward his father.

Little Joe nodded and looked into Hoss' eyes, telegraphing his fear to his older brother. Joe walked slowly over to the desk and stood before it. Ben put his hand on the boy's back and leaned him over the desk. He turned and took the wooden paddle that Adam handed to him.

Ben took a few practice swings in the air, before landing the first blow on his son's backside. The resounding crack echoed across the room.

Little Joe squeezed his eyes shut tightly and bit his lip to keep from uttering a sound.

Even Adam winced at the sound of the blow. Even though fifteen years separated the oldest and youngest Cartwright brothers, he could still conjure up some alarming memories of his childhood. Not that his transgressions had been anything close to some of the mischief Little Joe had gotten himself into, but the thoughts remained.

The force of each blow caused Little Joe's knees to buckle slightly. He stared at the grain in the desk, wishing himself anywhere but here, but the reality of his ungranted wish was enforced each time the long handled paddle made contact with his backside.

After the fifteenth blow, Ben tossed the paddle to Adam, who caught it in mid-air. "Put that back in its resting place will you son, for the next time my baby son needs discipline." Ben pulled Little Joe to his feet, "I trust this will not happen in the future."

"No sir." Little Joe said, having a hard time meeting his father's eyes.

"Alright up to your room with you then. Get into your nightshirt and get into bed and stay there. I’ll send up a tray with your supper on it and I don’t want to hear one sound from your room. Is that clear?" Ben said, his anger still smoldering beneath the surface.

Little Joe raised his eyes, looked at his father opened his mouth to protest, thought better of it, and answered a simple "yes sir." He walked across the room and stiffly climbed the stairs.

Hoss, his guts churning from watching the punishment of his baby brother turned to follow.

"Not so fast young man." Ben said, not forgetting there were two partners in this venture.

"Yes sir." Hoss said resigned.

"Tomorrow, I would like you to clean the stables, from top to bottom." Ben said taking a seat behind his desk.

Hoss nodded, "Yes sir I suppose that’s fair."

"Actually, no it isn’t. I’d much rather have I’d give you the same treatment as your brother, and if you were five years younger, I would have."

"Yessum" Hoss answered and climbed to the stairs. After he reached the top he walked down the hallway and knocked on Little Joe door.

"That you Hoss?" Little Joe answered.

"Uh huh. Can I come in?"

"Sure."

Little Joe met him at the door and wiped his shirtsleeve across his eyes. He knew he didn't have to hide the fact that he had been crying from Hoss, but he tried.

Hoss came in, his head hung low. He dug the toe of his boot into the seams on the floor. "I’m sorry you got a whipping. All because of my lamebrained idea."

The youngest Cartwright was still in the process of undressing. His well-polished boots were thrown on the floor, and his pants were over the back of a chair. He had unbuttoned his shirt and cuffs, his lightly muscled chest was showing though the open shirt. Little Joe smiled, and patted his much larger brother on the arm. Conscious of how bad Hoss felt, he decided to downplay the whole end to their adventure. "Lamebrained idea! " Joe said. "I don’t know about you but I came away with a pretty penny in my pocket. I think you probably did the same."

"Yeah, but it just ain’t worth it is it?" tearing his gaze from the floor and looking into his little brothers eyes.

"Ahhh-I don’t blame you. Sometimes things just turn out bad. You just have to deal with them." Little Joe said shaking his head.

"I’m sure glad to hear you say that." Hoss said the relief showing in his eyes.

"No big deal. I’ve had worse. It doesn’t really even hurt that much." Joe said as he walked over the window.

"That’s one thing I’m not believing. I saw the way he paddled your backside."

Little Joe chuckled "Okay, maybe it does hurt-a lot. But I’ll get over it."

Hoss paced back and forth. His eyes darkened. "Pa’s right though. I need to think more like Adam when it comes to you. Try not to get mixed up in these schemes."

"That wouldn’t be any fun would it?" Little Joe said with a twinkle in his eye. "Adam is serious enough for all three of us Cartwright brothers."

Hoss had to reward his baby brother with a chuckle. "You’re right, he sure is. The look on Adams face was just as bad as Pa’s."

"You think he practices in a mirror every morning to get that eyebrow tilt just like Pa’s?" Little Joe said mockingly.

Hoss, relieved that his brother wasn't mad at him busted out into laughter "Joe hush up-you’re going to get us in more trouble than we already are."

In response, Little Joe tried the eyebrow tilt, but didn't succeed. He saw the look on Hoss’ face, and collapsed into giggles, arms wrapped tightly around his chest in an attempt to suppress the laughter.

A click drew their attention to the door. Ben entered, the perfect eyebrow tilt in place. The two brothers took one look at their father and then at each other. They both tried in vain to keep a straight face, but succumbed to laugher.

Ben was not amused and his tone dripped ice. "You two find this whole escapade amusing, I take it."

The laughter died in Little Joe’s throat, and he covered it with a cough. "No sir."

"No sir," Hoss echoed.

The ice in Ben’s voice turned to fire. "Have you two learned nothing from this? There isn’t a lick of sense between the two of you."

Both sons studied the floor, knowing the best course of action was to just be quiet.

Ben shook his head. It was a comical sight, the two of then standing so guiltily there together, unsuccessfully trying to hide the grins. He would have liked to have been here a minute or two earlier to find out what was going on. He looked at his at his youngest son's half-opened shirt and noticed a bright red lash mark running across his stomach just above his underwear. Concern etched his face. "Little Joe what’s that on your stomach?"

Alarm leapt into Little Joe's face, and he hurriedly pulled his shirt together and held it tight. "Nothing Pa."

Ben walked over to the boy, until he stood before him. "You let me be the judge of that. Open your shirt."

Little Joe looked up into his father's eyes. He backed away from his father until he bumped into Hoss. He craned his neck and turned around and looked imploringly at his brother.

Hoss shook his head, mentally jumping to his father's side. "You heard Pa. You ain't getting any help from me this time."

Little Joe looked at him beseechingly, his voice wavering slightly. "But Hoss."

"You heard him Little Joe."

Little Joe scanned the room a wild look flashing in both eyes. Both Ben and Hoss recognized the signs. Adam had read about it once, it was called a fight or flight reaction. To prevent any problems, Hoss reached out and gently took hold of his baby brother's left arm.

Resigned, Joe let out the breath he had been holding. He dropped his hands that had been holding the shirt tightly closed.

Ben pulled open the shirt and knelt down to see the lash mark across his son's lean stomach. He prodded the deep red line with his finger, a sharp intake of breath indicating discomfort to the owner. He looked up at his son. "The other rider did this to you didn’t he?"

Little Joe nodded and nervously ran a hand though his tousled curls.

"Damn. I told you that you had no business in that or any race." He looked accusingly at Hoss, before returning his gaze to Joe. "Take your shirt off."

Joe pleaded with his father. "But Pa, I’m fine. Just leave it alone and it’ll go away. They always do." Little Joe, whose his mouth sometimes talked a sentence faster than his brain could think, bit his lips and wished he could retract the last sentence.

Hoss spun his brother around to face him and grabbed him by the chin. "You mean this has happened before." He said knowing he had been fooled once again when Joe had assured him the race wasn't dangerous.

Little Joe twisted his head to pull out of his brother’s grasp. "Most of the other riders don’t lose easily. They can get dirty on the last run through town, and they’ll try to win any way they can."

"Punkin, I didn’t mean for this to happen." Hoss said his feelings apparent in his eyes.

"I know Hoss, I knew you would feel bad so that’s why I didn’t tell you. I’m fine." Little Joe said smiling.

Ben, however was unconvinced. "Little Joe take your shirt off."

Little Joe whirled to face his father and shook his head. "But why?" he said, his eyes wavering. "I said, I’m fine."

"I didn’t ask for questions young man. I told you to take your shirt off and I mean now." Ben said his voice made of steel.

Little Joe hesitated a moment, but knew this was a battle that couldn't be won. Where the health of one of his son's was concerned, Ben was unshakeable. He started slipping his shirt off his right shoulder. Before he could finish, Adam called from the stairs.

"I’ll be right back-Hoss keep an eye on him." Ben said and went to the stairs to talk to his oldest son.

Relief apparent in his eyes, Little Joe looked at his partner in crime. "Whew, that was close." He buttoned his shirt to mid chest, and walked over to the window and lifted up the sash. He stopped once in the middle to wince from the pain in his chest, however taking a deep breath of the fresh air calmed him somewhat.

Hoss shook his head at his brother's relief. Little Joe's mind could certainly change directions in mid-stream. "You really don’t think he’s going to forget do you?"

"I can hope can’t I?" Caught up in the intensity of the moment, Little Joe plopped heavily into the chair next to the desk, before jumping up with a yeow and rubbing his sore behind.

Hoss chuckled. "Kind of forgot something yourself didn’t you?"

Little Joe grinned sheepishly. "Sort of."

The door opening caused them both to turn, as Ben returned with Adam following.

Little Joe's hopes were dashed when he saw the look on his father's face. One glance at Adam's expression told him that Pa had filled him in on the situation too.

"I thought I told you to take your shirt off." Ben said, tapping his foot.

The two younger Cartwright brothers exchanged glances, Little Joe’s telegraphing his dread, but seeing only concern in Hoss’ eyes.

Little Joe’s lower lip trembled. "But Pa." The adrenaline that had been coursing through his veins was starting to diminish, the body only having so much to give.

Ben walked over to his youngest son who stood next to the bed, Hoss directly behind him.

"I thought the lesson I taught your behind earlier would make you a little more willing to follow instruction. If that isn’t the case, maybe I didn’t explain it strongly enough. Now I said take your shirt off boy." Ben said sternly.

Little Joe looked at Adam imploringly. Adam responded with a slow but decisive shake of his head.

Joe stared at the floor and unbuttoned his shirt. He slipped it off his left shoulder and let it fall down his back, but managed to keep his right shoulder hidden. A hope flickered through his thoughts that he might get away with just a little bit of alcohol across the lashes and be done with it.

Adam realized how desperate Joe was to look to him for intervention with Pa, and felt sorry for his younger brother. He felt Little Joe needed and deserved the spanking that Pa had given him earlier, but he knew how much Joe hated any sort of close scrutiny that could lead to medical attention.

Seeing the welts criss-crossing the lightly muscled back before him, Hoss uttered a single "Jeez Joe," before trying to help his take his shirt off. Course Hoss, being Hoss was a little rough and jostled the right shoulder that had been hurt the day before.

Joe clenched his left hand into a fist and doubled over, grabbing his injured shoulder. He couldn’t control the groan that escaped his lips. After a moment fighting to gain control, he took a couple deep breaths, and said through clenched teeth. "See, hardly anything at all."

Three deep welts ran diagonally from his lower back to the opposing shoulder. The shoulder itself was a mass of deep purplish black bruises, from the center of his back running down his ribcage, the uneven edges contrasting with the slight tan of his chest.

Adam walked behind Joe to get a look at his back and traced the borders of the bruise with his index finger.

"Jeez-The welts are bad enough, but how’d you get the bruise?" Adam said softly, trying to hide the concern that dominated his face.

Little Joe winced, avoiding anyone’s gaze. "It’s nothing."

Ben was shocked by Joe's reaction to Hoss jostling his shoulder. He followed his oldest son and got the first clear look at his baby son’s back. "Joe, Joe, Joe."

"It’s nothing really Pa. Hardly hurts at all." Joe said, putting on a brave face.

Ben poked Hoss in the ribs and mouthed the words. "Doctor.".

Hoss nodded, and said. "I’ll be right back." And left the room.

Ben knelt down and studied the bruises, which traveled under the boy's arm and up the rib cage in the front stopping at the collarbone. He looked up at his son and smiled, trying to keep his son calm. "So how did this happen?" he said gently.

Little Joe said sheepishly "Well, I kinda fell."

"I think our little boy here has a gift for understatement." Adam said.

Ben shook his head, indicating the conversation was over. "We can discuss this later. Right now I want you to get into bed." Ben said pulling the covers back and gently but firmly taking hold of Little Joe's left arm.

"Bed?" Joe said. "But Pa, I’m fine-really. It's just a little bruise, that's all."

"I’ll be the judge of that. Now get in." Ben said his brows furrowing.

"But," Little Joe started. He looked into his father's steely gray eyes and knew this battle was lost before it began.

Ben rolled his eyes. "Could I have just one order obeyed today without question."

Little Joe looked desperately at Adam, who raised his hands and said "Don’t look at me. I happen to share Pa's opinion. Now get in before I throw you in."

Little Joe stamped his feet in response without thinking, which sent shock waves up his legs and into his chest, causing him to double over and cradle his ribs. After a moment, in which Ben and Adam exchanged concerned looks, Little Joe walked stiffly over to the bed. He turned and gave one last rebellious look to his father and brother before he climbed into the soft bed. Judging face down to be the most comfortable position given the consequences of the his actions earlier in the day he lay down and gently eased his injured shoulder to the soft mattress.

Adam covered him with the quilt, and said. "Pa, I’ll stay here with him. Why don’t you go check on Hoss."

Ben nodded. "Okay, but keep him quiet and still until I get back."

"Don’t worry about it. He isn’t going anywhere." Adam said, pulling the rocker from its place by the window to sit by the door. He eased his large frame into the chair and stretched out his long legs.

Ben looked at his youngest son on the bed one last time, and turned and went downstairs.

As soon as Ben left, Little Joe started to rise up on his uninjured elbow.

Adam was out of the chair in an instant, and over to the bed. He gently pushed his baby brother back to the mattress. "I meant what I said little buddy. Now lay down and be quiet."

Knowing that there was no use arguing with his oldest brother, Little Joe for one of the few times that day did as he was told, thankful that there had been no mention of the doctor.

Forty-five minutes later, Adam heard hoofbeats coming from the road in front of the house. He leaned over Little Joe, pleased to see that he had fallen asleep. He tucked a stray curl behind his little brothers ear, thinking the boy really needed a haircut. Then left to check on the visitor.

As soon as he heard the click of the door closing, Little Joe opened his eyes. He threw the quilt back with his good arm, and slowly pushed himself up in bed. A shake of his head cleared the thoughts of sleep from his brain. He didn't know how long he had slept, but was pleased to see that it was still strongly daylight out, so it hadn't been long. He carefully took a deep breath, and let it out slowly.

"Enough of this" he said aloud to the room, and eased himself out of bed. He walked over to his dresser and pulled open the middle drawer, taking out a clean white shirt.

Adam opened the door and frowned at his baby brother. "What do you think you're doing?"

Little Joe looked confused. "Getting dressed. Why?"

"I thought Pa told you to stay in bed. Now get back in." Adam said quickly going to his brother and taking hold of his good arm.

"He did not. He told me to take a nap and I did. So now I'm up and getting dressed." Little Joe said, glaring up at his older brother. "So leave me alone and let me finish." The pain from his shoulder and the trying day was wearing on him, causing him to be even more short-tempered than usual.

In the midst of the argument, they hadn't heard Ben Cartwright enter the room. Ben had to chuckle to himself. His youngest son was obstinate. So like his mother, dead these last ten years. "Boys."

Both young men turned to look at their father. Sheepishly Ben continued. "He's right Adam. I did tell him to get in bed and take a nap."

"But Pa," answered Adam with a bewildered look.

Ben held up his hand. "But I will correct my earlier statement right now." He walked over to his two boys and motioned for Adam to let go of his brother's arm. Little Joe smiled smugly, but was dismayed when Ben's hand replaced Adam's. "I meant I want you to stay in bed."

"Pa." Little Joe began.

"No, son. Bed is where you are going to stay." Ben said, brushing away a stray curl that rested on his youngest child's forehead.

"How long." Joe said gritting his teeth and clenching his fist.

"Until I say so, young man." Dr. Martin said from this position standing in the doorway, his medical bag in his hand.

Little Joe's eyes narrowed as he glared accusingly at his father then at Adam.

Adam patted his youngest brothers uninjured shoulder lightly. "Sorry little buddy, but this is the way it has to be."

Through gritted teeth Little Joe uttered a single word. "No."

Dr. Martin walked over to his patient and stood in front of him and said. "Yes." It never failed to amaze him just how stubborn Little Joe Cartwright could be.

Little Joe shook his head vehemently. "You can't make me." He raised his foot to stamp it, but remembered the consequences from this action earlier. He slowly dropped it to the floor.

Ben and Adam exchanged glances. This wasn't going to be easy. Ben knew Little Joe hated the doctor more than anything in the world, and any examination was difficult at best. He was glad Doc Martin had cared for Little Joe since he was born. The man knew the best way to handle the Joe was to take a firm stand.

"Oh yes I can make you," Doctor Martin said placing his bag on the nightstand next to the bed. "The way I see it you have two choices. You can willingly lie down on that bed" he said pointing "or I can have your father and older brother drag you there and hold you down. It's your choice. Either way, I'm going to examine you."

"No." Little Joe said glaring at the doctor, then at his father. "I told you before I'm fine."

"Joseph." Ben said in a voice that brooked no argument.

Little Joe slowly turned his head to look up at his father, who seemed to tower over him at that moment. He took a deep breath to strengthen his courage. "Yes, Pa?"

"Who is in charge here young man." Ben said, furrows creasing his brow. He hated to do this, but it was the only way to get Joe to comply with the doctor's request.

"I.." Little Joe started, until he saw his father's anger reaching the boiling point. Ben Cartwright did not allow his sons to show disrespect to their elders, and unfortunately at Joe's age that was just about everybody.

Ben smacked him lightly on the behind, causing Little Joe to jump. "I thought we had this discussion earlier today Joseph."

Little Joe returned his gaze to the floor. "Yes sir."

Ben took his son's chin in his hand and raised it so Little Joe was forced to look him in the eye. "Now who did you say was in charge here?" Ben said, talking slowly and deliberately.

Joe scuffed his bare feet on the floorboards before speaking. "You are Pa." He said before he looked away.

"Why thank you," Ben said trying not to look at the wry smile on Adam's face. "And now that that is settled, I would like you to do exactly" he took Little Joe chin again and forced him to look in his eyes again "and I do mean exactly what the doctor says. Is that clear."

"But," Little Joe began again, unable to give in.

"The only butt we'll be discussing is yours turned over my knee if you don't do as I say. And I mean Now!" Ben said, driven to the breaking point.

A fuming Little Joe sat up in bed bestowing furious looks at the eldest two members of his family. He squirmed as Doc Martin tried to examine him.

"I know you hate this, but I have to look you over. Hold still." He knew his pleas would fall on deaf ears. It wasn't in Little Joe's nature to sit still at all, so he was used to him not behaving during exams. He rotated the bruised shoulder, and noticed the sharp intake of breath, followed by slow, even, paced breathing to fight against the pain. Dr. Martin knew all the tricks Joe Cartwright played to cloud a proper diagnosis. "Alright. I want you to lie face down."

Little Joe set his jaw and tried to cross his arms in front of his chest, his usual reaction to something he didn't want to do.

Ben had had enough. "You heard the doctor, and you're going to obey." He fumbled with his belt buckle, certain that he wouldn't have to use it on the injured boy."

The threat worked, and Little Joe slowly turned over, easing his head into the soft down pillow. Dr. Martin continued his examination, he pressed on the shoulder blade where the deepest black swirling bruise was. Little Joe bit his lip and clenched his hands, through sheer force of will not crying out.

Doc Martin had noticed however. He ran his finger down the fracture that split the center of the shoulder blade, which caused his patient to groan softly. He patted Little Joe on the arm. "All done with the exam part son. You can rest easy for a minute."

The doctor took the bowl of hot water that Hop Sing had delivered earlier and placed it on the nightstand. He waited a few moments to give his patient a little break before he continued. After sitting next to his patient on the bed, he pressed a warm cloth against the lash marks on his back, "I know it hurts, but this will go easier if you relax."

Ben sat on the bed next to his youngest child and stroked his hair. "It's okay Joe, the doctor will be done soon. Then you can take a nice long nap."

Little Joe tensed even more. "Nap. Pa, I ain't going to take a nap. It's the middle of the day. " he looked at his father and started to rise.

Adam grinned at his father and brother on the bed. Little Joe could be dying and he still wouldn't admit he was in any discomfort. And how he hated staying in bed.

"Let's try and not upset him shall we." Doc Martin said, gently pushing his patient back down on the soft mattress. "Now stay still"

Still was not a position that Little Joe could achieve for long under even the best of conditions. He squirmed, wiggled and did his best to avoid the cloth on his back.

When finished cleaning the wounds, the doctor searched in his bag and found a large bottle of alcohol. He placed a cloth on the spout of the bottle and upended it, soaking it thoroughly. Knowing surprise was the best method to get a painful treatment done on any sick child, but especially Little Joe, he motioned to Ben and Adam to hold him still, so he could sterilize the wound. Adam crossed the room to the bed and sat at his brother's head. Adam and Ben both put their hands on him at the same time.

Little Joe knew something was going on. He tried to rise but the strong hands of his father and brother prevented it. "Hey, that's not fair what's..." Little Joe said, trying to twist around and see behind him.

"I'm going to sterilize the lashes Joe. You're not going to like it, but I have to prevent an infection. This is going to sting, so your Pa and Adam are going to help me by holding you still." Doc Martin said.

Joe couldn't hold the tears back as the burning pain ran across his back. He took several deep breaths and gritted his teeth, and mercifully soon it was over.

"There Joe, that part's done anyway. He set the cloth on the table and unwound a roll of bandages. "Now I'm just going to tape your shoulder down so you can't move it and we're almost done." Doc Martin said with a smile.

After he finished bandaging the shoulder, Dr. Martin pulled a length of cloth out of his bag. " Adam could you come over and give me a hand here."

"Sure thing, Doc." Adam sat on the other side of the bed, Little Joe between the two men.

"Okay," Doc said, after he had arranged Little Joe arm across his chest. "Hold his arm right here."

The Doc wound the cloth around the arm to hold it in place, forming a makeshift sling that was bandaged to his young patient’s body.

"What’s that for?" Joe said looking at his immobile arm.

Completing his task, the doctor said. "Whose in charge here, me or you."

Joe looked at his oldest brother, and saw the warning in his eyes. "You are."

Doctor Martin smiled. "Good, then I think I know what’s best for you. So I want you to lie down in that nice soft bed of yours and go to sleep. Oh, and drink this." He said bringing a cup of deep amber liquid to the bed.

Little Joe eyed the cup suspiciously. "What is it?"

"I believe the doctor said to drink it and that’s all you need to know young man." Ben said from his newly arrived place in the doorway, an extra pillow under his arm.

Little Joe saw the look in Pa's eyes would brook no resistance. "Yes sir," Joe said taking the cup from the older man. After taking a small sip he screwed up his face and uttered "Yuck."

"I don’t care how it tastes, just drink it." Ben said sternly.

Knowing this battle was lost even before it was started, Little Joe drained the glass, pursing his lips to shake off the aftertaste.

The doctor gently eased him down in bed and placed the extra pillow under the injured shoulder, Then pulled the covers over the small body. "Now sleep-Doctors orders."

Little Joe closed his eyes, and lay down as he was told.

The Doctor picked up his bag and turned to go. "I want a word with you downstairs Ben."

Ben looked over at his oldest son.

"I’ll stay here Pa. Don’t worry, he’s going to take a nice long nap." Adam said.

As soon as Ben left, Little Joe started to rise up on his uninjured elbow.

Adam quickly moved to the bed, and gently pushed his baby brother back to the mattress. "We went through this before. Now lay still and go to sleep, little buddy." He sat on the edge of the bed and stroked his baby brother's hair, a gesture from childhood that comforted both of them.

Before he was able to drop off into drug induced sleep, Little Joe mind was a jumble of thoughts. Sometimes he wondered why he seemed to get into so much trouble. He really didn't mean to, but he just couldn't seem to steer clear of it. Little Joe knew he didn't like anyone telling what do, but he couldn't count the times his brothers had pulled him out of situations where he was in over his head. But that didn't stop his thirst for adventure. If his older brother sitting so patiently there only knew what was going on right under his nose.

Little Joe shivered slightly, causing Adam to mutter "ssshhhh, it'll be alright. Just go to sleep now."

Adam had been a part brother/father as long as he could remember. Little Joe loved the brother part that took him fishing, and sledding, but he wasn't too fond of the father part. Adam had always been grown up to Joe, he never remembered him any other way. The sedative was doing its work, his eyes were getting very heavy and the throbbing from his shoulder was starting to lessen.

Adam noticed his little brothers' breathing ease and become slow and regular. He walked slowly back to the rocker and sat down. He stared up and the ceiling in deep thought as he stroked his chin. "What to do" he said softly to the room. He was torn between telling Pa his suspicions and waiting to catch him himself. Little Joe moaned softly as he shifted in bed. He looked so frail and innocent lying there in the large bed.

Hoss poked his head in the open door way. "How is he," he said looking at the small form under the blankets.

"It’d take more than a fall from Cochise and a couple of lashes across his back to hurt Little Joe." Adam said with a grin. Knowing how concerned Hoss had to be, he said. "Why don’t you keep an eye on him. I want to talk to Pa anyway."

"Sure thing Adam. He won't get by me if he wakes up."

"See that he doesn't, younger brother." Adam said before leaving to join his father and the doctor.

"He’ll be fine," Dr. Martin said to a concerned Ben who paced back and forth in front of the fire. "Keep him in bed, and make sure that he eats and gets some rest. That boy is exhausted and he’s lost weight. I’ll be back to check on him tomorrow, and we’ll see how he is then. But keep that sling on him. It’s hard to tell, but he may have pulled some ligaments in his elbow in addition to the broken shoulder blade." He patted his old friend on the arm and smiled. "He’ll heal, we just need to keep an eye on him."

Ben nodded, relieved. "Thank you."

"He’ll probably sleep five or six hours from the sedative I gave him." Dr. Martin finished packing his bag. "By the way how’d he say it happened?"

"He said he fell from Cochise." Ben said, shoving his hands into his pockets. "I haven’t gotten the whole story out of him yet, I was more concerned with having you take a look at him."

"Wise choice." Dr. Martin nodded. "A fall you say. Not surprising, the way he rides that pinto of his. You might tell him to take it easy and go about one-third speed. I’ve seen him riding like he was being chased by a pack of wild Indians."

Adam chuckled from his seat by the fire. "Knowing Joe that’s not altogether out of the question."

"I’m being serious here Ben." Doc Martin said, shaking his stethoscope at his friend." Did you know that he’s jumped Elk Grove gorge on that pony of his."

"What!" Ben said, concern filling his voice.

"I didn’t see it first hand of course, but I had to go out to MacAllistair's to check on a boy with a broken leg, and I heard all the buzz about it."

"Damn it, he has his mothers spirit in him alright." Ben said slapping the back of the armchair in anger.

"I do know Ben, but I also remember how she died. I don’t want the same thing happening to your little one.

Ben nodded and clapped the other man on his back. "Thank you doctor, for everything."

CHAPTER 5

Sunday morning

Contrary to the doctor's predictions, Joe slept all through the rest of the day and night until the next morning. Hoss slept in the chair next to the bed, determined to be there in case his beloved baby brother woke up.

The smell of breakfast woke Hoss. "Hey Pa, morning" he said looking at the food on the tray his father brought into the room.

Ben smiled, the worry lines diminished on his face. "Why don't you go downstairs and get yourself some breakfast. You look famished."

"I sure am Pa." Hoss said and looked over at his sleeping brother. "You're going to wake him up then?"

Ben nodded. "He didn't eat hardly at all yesterday. As much as he needs his rest, we need to get some food into him.

"He's awful tired pa. He never moved all night." Hoss said, concern in his voice.

"I know son, but he'll be fine. We just need to make sure he takes it easy and stays in bed for a few days. That's all. I'm sure by Wednesday he'll be his usual self."

Hoss nodded, the worry leaving his eyes.

Ben continued. "But he needs to eat. I'm not looking forward to this at all, you know how he is."

Hoss chuckled. "I sure do Pa."

Ben pointed at the door. "You get down to breakfast. Hop Sing'll be wondering where you are."

"Don't have to tell me more than twice Pa." Hoss said jumping out of the chair. "I don't think you'll have such an easy time with him though" he said pointing to his young brother asleep under the covers.

Ben smiled lovingly. "Things are never easy with Little Joe son. Never have been and probably never will be. You have enough experience tangling with him to know that."

"I sure do." Hoss' eyes clouded. "I'm awful sorry about yesterday Pa. I didn't know he had a hurt shoulder or I wouldn't have let him ride that mare."

Ben answered softly. "Don't you think I know that son? Put it out of your head. All is forgiven."

"Thanks, Pa," Hoss said.

"Now I think I'll tend to your brother here. I don't think he'll be as agreeable." Ben said as he set the tray down on the nightstand. He gazed at his sleeping youngest son who was curled up on his side as tight as the bandaged shoulder would allow. A delightful child, but much more difficult than his older brothers to discipline.

He brushed the golden brown curls off the damp forehead and whispered. '"Joe, wake up."

The sleeping boy didn't stir.

"Little Joe." Ben said, slightly louder.

A slight movement in response, just enough for the bandaged shoulder to peek out from the top of the heavy quilt.

"Joseph" Ben said his son's name a third time.

The sleeping boy shivered and started to squirm, talking in his sleep. "It wasn't my fault, Pa. That egg just happened to fall into Adam's boot--really."

Ben had to chuckle. He gently eased Little Joe onto his back and brushed the curls off his forehead. "Son wake up. It's morning."

Little Joe's eyes fluttered open. Ben was surprised. It was usually murder to get his youngest son to wake up.

Joe's eyes focused on his father's kind face. "What time is it Pa? I'm sorry I'm late again."

"Don't worry about it today son." Ben smiled. "It's almost nine o'clock."

Little Joe's eyes widened. "Nine o'clock! I've got to …" Joe said as he started to push himself up in bed.

Expecting this response, Ben said "Calm down, son you're not going anywhere." To further emphasize his point he put a restraining hand on his son's chest.

"But, Pa" Joe pleaded.

"I said, you're not going anywhere. And the only definite plans for the day, are for you to eat three square meals and do a lot of resting." Ben said narrowing his eyes and forcing his voice to drop even lower.

Little Joe stuck out his lower lip petulantly.

Ben continued, ignoring his son's response. "I'm going to get some extra pillows to prop you up in bed. Don't you move out of that bed, boy. Do you understand me?"

"Yes sir." Joe said to his father's back. He would have liked to have stuck his tongue out, but he only did that to Hoss or Adam, never to Pa. He covered his eyes with his hand. How did he get himself into these situations? Joe asked himself. How long was he going to be stuck up here? He had promised Steve that he'd be at the International House on Tuesday night. Come hell or high water he was going to be. Little Joe shifted in bed and realized it was a mistake. His shoulder was like fire and his ribs ached. Every breath hurt and to top it all off, the treatment his father had given his backside yesterday didn't help. He just plain felt awful. He closed his eyes and tried to calm down. It wouldn't help him get out of here if Pa saw he was having a hard time of it. He took a deep breath trying to relax, but the breath aggravated his sore ribs. He couldn't help grimacing and clutching his ribs with his unbandaged arm.

At that moment, Ben chose to walk though the door and caught the movement on the bed. He quickly over and sat beside his son. "Are you okay, boy?" Ben said, concern filling his voice.

The pain was sharp and coursed through his chest with every breath. It just wouldn't go away. It was a moment before Little Joe was able to talk. "I'm fine Pa. Just fine." He said, opening his eyes and looking at his father hopefully.

Ben chose to ignore what he had seen. He fluffed the pillows he had brought with him and set them on the bed next to his son. "I’m going to lean you forward and put these behind your back so that you can eat"

"I’m not hungry, Pa." Joe said looking up at his father.

Ben smiled down at his son. He was sure he would fight this battle over eating until Little Joe really was as grown up as he thought he was. "Hungry doesn’t matter. Doc Martin said you needed to eat, and eat you will."

A knock on the door caused them both to turn as Adam poked his head through the doorway. "Need a hand Pa?"

Ben smiled at his eldest son, who always seemed eager to help. "Don’t I usually when it comes to your baby brother?" He threw the pillows over to Adam. "Take these and prop them behind his back will you?"

Adam caught the pillows and walked to the opposite side of the bed. Ben gently eased Little Joe forward, but couldn't help but notice the sharp intake of breath from his youngest son. Adam placed the pillows carefully behind his brother’s back and Ben leaned him back.

Joe let out the breath he had been holding and clutched at his ribs.

"You okay Little Joe?" Adam asked sitting down on the bed beside him

Little Joe nodded, not trusting his voice at the moment. He took several shallow breaths and opened his eyes.

Adam reached over and felt his young brother’s forehead. "Well you’re not hot, but you’re awful pale."

"I’m fine." Joe said as the pain started to lessen. He made a quick swipe with his hand to wipe away a tear that rested on his cheek.

"Good, then you should have no problem eating the breakfast that Hop Sing made for you." Ben said as he placed a tray across his youngest son's lap.

Little Joe crinkled his nose. If his right arm wasn't bandaged tightly across his chest, he would have crossed his arms as a show of defiance. But honestly it would just hurt too bad Joe thought to himself. He looked down at the food in front of him. It looked at best unappetizing. Oatmeal and an egg flip. There were many foods he disliked but he hated oatmeal. He didn't know why, but it seemed like whenever he was sick this is what he got to eat. "Yuck." He couldn't help muttering. Little Joe looked first at Pa who was sitting next to him on his right, and then Adam who stood at the foot of the bed. They both knew there was going to be an argument about this and he wasn't about to prove them wrong.

"C'mon Little Joe. Eat your breakfast. Doctor's orders." Adam said leaning on the footboard of the four poster bed.

Joe looked at his father imploringly. "Pa I can't eat this."

Ben smiled. "You can and you will."

"Why do you do this to me? You know I hate this stuff." Little Joe said, lifting the spoon from the gloppy mess and then letting it drop.

Ben took a deep breath. "If you must know, I do this to you because Dr. Martin says you need nourishment and this is the best stuff for you. Now eat."

Little Joe stuck out his lower lip and shook his head petulantly.

Ben's eyes darkened. "I said eat young man."

Joe's lip quivered. He knew he wasn't going to win but he had to try. "Pa, no--Please."

"What did I just hear-boy?" Ben's voice boomed as he rose to his feet.

Adam was able to read his father more clearly than his younger brother. Years of doing business together made him able to judge when Ben Cartwright had had enough. Maybe time would bestow the same ability on Joe, but right now it wasn't working too well. Adam knew that Joe had better start eating soon, or there would be even more trouble.

Little Joe looked up at the tall form of his father. He opened his mouth to speak, but nothing came out.

"You are going to learn some discipline boy, even if it kills the both of us." Ben said shaking his finger at his son.

Joe knew the more times "boy" came out of Pa's mouth the less likely he was to win the argument. He took as deep a breath as his injured ribs would allow him and looked at the mess before him. He picked up the spoon and tried to control the flip-flops his stomach was doing. He looked up at this father and said. "Half?"

Ben shook his head. "All."

"Three-fourths?" Little Joe said biting his lip.

Ben crossed his arms across his chest and shook his head.

Adam was relieved. He knew when Joe started to bargain that the fight was almost gone out of him.

"I said all young man. This isn't open for discussion." Ben said walking to the rocker. He sat down when he saw his youngest son take his first bite. He knew the next couple of days weren't going to be easy, but they had managed before and would again.

CHAPTER 6

A week later-Monday

After Doctor Martin's visit, Little Joe was allowed to walk around some, but not to leave the house. Coming home after a long day of riding the fence lines, Adam found him asleep on the couch, the glow of the lamp casting shadows across the young face. He caressed the tousled chestnut curls, then gently lifted his young brother and carried him upstairs to bed. He covered the small body with a warm quilt and watched as Little Joe curled up as much as his bandaged shoulder would allow and peacefully continued sleeping. Adam thought about the whole Steve Garner nightmare. He knew it would probably be tomorrow night when Joe tried to sneak out again, and he was going to take a few precautions but let him go.

"This will all be over tomorrow, and although I don’t think you’ll like the consequences of your actions, it’s for your own good." Adam said softly.

A flood of memories returned to Adam. It hadn't been that long ago that he held him on his lap, telling ghost stories to a frightened seven year old, green eyes growing impossibly large with fright, and yet listening closely all the same. A wild streak was inbred in him, from when he was old enough to talk he didn't like to listen to whoever was in charge, whether it was a father, brother or for too short a time, mother.

"But tomorrow night, you will listen. I guarantee it." He said aloud. Bending over the bed he dropped a kiss on his baby brother's forehead and left the room.

Tuesday night

Adam and Hoss watched from the wood shed behind the house. They had been crouched there for three-quarters of an hour before they noticed movement in the window, as a solitary figure crawled out and dropped to the narrow ledge below.

Hoss shook his head. "He’s gonna plumb kill himself."

"Shhh-don’t spook him. I’m sure he’s done this many times, but this will be his last."

"But ain’t you forgetting that hurt shoulder of his?" Hoss said and pulled a blade of grass, chewing on it absently

As if on cue, Little Joe lost his balance, barely catching himself before falling.

Adam and Hoss both stood in alarm, but were relieved when Joe leaned back against the wall, his balance restored.

"I reckon he kind of forgot about that shoulder too. But I haven’t. You see that shadow in the corner underneath his window." Adam said pointing.

Hoss’ eyes followed the path of Adams finger, and nodded "You mean the moving one."

"Uh huh. That shadow is the biggest McDaniels brother. He's there just in case our brother the acrobat should fall."

"Well, Jake McDaniel is bigger than I am and as strong as a mule. He certainly wouldn’t have any problem catching him." Hoss agreed. "But how’d you convince him to stay here tonight instead of going to the Bucket ‘O Blood?"

Adam chuckled softly "It actually wasn’t too hard, it seems that he has a score to settle with Little Joe. That made him more than eager to help us catch him."

"Score to settle." Hoss said instantly alert. He didn’t like to hear of anyone having anything to settle with his baby brother.

"Don’t worry," Adam said, putting a comforting hand on Hoss’ shoulder. "He bet on Indian Runner on Saturday and lost two weeks pay. I think he figures putting Joe in his place will at least make him feel a little better."

Another wobble from Joe on the ledge brought their full attention back to his escape. "Lookit him. He ain’t even got a coat on." Hoss squinted trying to see through the darkness. "Doc Martin's going to be mad. He unwrapped that sling around his shoulder."

"Of course he took that sling off.," Adam said shaking his head, "that would shift his center of gravity."

Hoss looked at his older brother, who sensed the quizzical look on his face even in the darkness. "I mean it would make it easier for him to fall."

Hoss nodded "He ain't got a coat on either. It’s plumb cold out here Adam. He’s gonna catch himself a chill."

"Well if he’s smart, he’s going to have a coat stashed out here somewhere, and a horse. Otherwise Cochise wouldn’t be in the stable when we checked."

Hoss nodded. "Are we gonna grab him and drag him in the house to Pa when we catch him?"

"No, I think I want to catch him in the act. Otherwise he’s just sneaking out. And although Pa would be plenty mad, I think the impact on Joe’s behind will be much greater if we actually catch him in town at the International House."

"I still don't like the idea of this Adam. I mean Doc Martin said he could be up and around and all, but I'm sure he didn't mean this."

"I know, I know. I don't like the idea of it either. But it'll be a couple of hours at most and he'll be back here. You know he's having a hard time sleeping. I think he's worrying about this scheme he's caught up in. Once it's over he'll get better a lot faster."

They were both relieved when the boy jumped to the ground and ran off into the bushes. "You know it really steams me to know he crawled right beneath my window everytime he snuck out and I never heard him." Adam said scowling.

"You know Joe, he’s a slippery one." Hoss said with a grin.

"I don’t think he’ll be quite so slippery after tonight." Adam said.

"If we catch him."

"Oh we will. I promise you that." Adam said, determination evident in his voice.

Sheriff Roy Coffee was walking down the street when he noticed two men tying up their horses. "Hoss, Adam. I didn't expect to see you two in town tonight. What are your plans?" Roy said, the surprise evident in his eyes.

"We're doing a little hunting tonight Roy. Care to join us." Hoss said grinning.

"Hunting? What or should I say who are you hunting?" Roy said, a smile curling his lips as he guessed the answer.

"The Dixie Kid. We're going to track him down, hog-tie him and haul him back to his good old daddy for a little down home southern discipline." Adam said patting Sport on the rump.

Roy chuckled. "I don't want to miss this, but I was on my way to meet Doc Martin. Care if he comes along on the hunt?"

"Glad to have him. In fact, after we catch him he can check out Little Joe's shoulder to make sure that nothing will stand in the way of the whipping Pa is going to give him when we get him home." Adam said, a slow grin coming to his lips.

Sheriff Coffee walked up the steps leading to the International House. There was a lightness to his step when he thought of catching the young Joe Cartwright in the act. He pushed open the door and walked through the doorway. He glanced up the staircase and saw Steve Garner standing outside the door to the suite at the top of the stairs.

"Steve Garner. Just the person I want to talk to. Come down here young man." Sheriff Coffee shouted.

Steve looked around to make sure the coast was clear, and sauntered down the steps. He didn't like to have any dealings with Roy Coffee at all. Several days in jail the last time had cured him of any disrespect toward the middle-aged sheriff.

"Yes, sir Sheriff. What did you want?" Steve said, not wanting to arouse any suspicion.

"Come outside here boy. I got a couple of things I want to talk to you about." Roy said motioning him outside.

Steve pointed in the direction of the room upstairs. "I’m really not supposed to leave. I’m supposed to watch…"

Roy shook his head. "This is official business boy. Come outside." He opened the door and walked out front.

Resigned, Steve followed the older man outside. As soon as he cleared the doorframe, a swift punch to the jaw sent him reeling back into the room. Hoss walked in, looked around and retrieved the knocked out body of his brother's friend. He propped him up on the bench in front of the hotel.

Doc Martin checked him briefly. "He’ll sleep like a baby for a while."

"I’m more concerned about another baby upstairs that’s going to have a hard time sitting for a long time if I have anything to say about it." Hoss said.

"I agree with you my friend," Doc Martin said slapping Hoss on the back. "As long as Ben takes it easy on him."

The three men crept silently up the steps and crept to the door. Hoss put his hand on the doorknob and looked at his partners. Sheriff Coffee held up one, then two, then three fingers. Hoss silently turned the door and pushed it open. The three men stepped into the room and watched the scene enfold before them.

The players at the table were too caught up in the business at hand to have noticed the new occupants in the room. Little Joe counted some bills and threw them in the pile in the center of the table. "Well gentlemen, I have a straight, 2,3,4,5,6." He said smiling at the three men sitting at the table.

Two of the men threw down their cards and looked at the third, a large man who went by the name Lighting Jack.

"Ha, boy finally I get to beat you. Lookit here. Full house." Jack said and held his hand out for all at the table to see.

Little Joe bit his lip to control a smile. Then he spoke. "Funny thing about my straight though" he said laying his hand on the table "they all happen to be the same pretty red color."

"Damn." The older man said as he threw his cards in the center of the table."

Sheriff Roy Coffee had to smile. One of the joys of his life was to catch Little Joe Cartwright in the middle of some scam. He was sure he missed enough of them, so the few that he actually uncovered made the satisfaction all the sweeter. "You know Hoss, we shoulda believed Adam. He was right all along."

Little Joe looked up from raking in the remains of his winnings. Fear clouded his eyes, and sent a shiver up his spine. Self-preservation was about ten seconds in kicking in before he turned and dove out the second-story window. He rolled to his feet and clamored across the roof, didn't waste time with the trellis, and jumped to the ground. Before he could rise, a pair of black boots stepped in front of him. Little Joe squeezed his eyes shut tight and whispered "Please God no."

After a moment of prayer, he slowly opened his eyes. The boots were still there. He raised his gaze up the black pants, to the black shirt, to the grim face of his oldest brother Adam.

Adam put his hands on his hips. "Out a little late aren't you Joe?" Adam said raising one eyebrow and grinning smugly.

Joe quickly decided that flight was the best possible answer. He knew he could easily outdistance Adam if he could get out of his long-armed reach. Little Joe kept his head down, avoiding meeting Adams gaze. He slowly climbed to his feet and stuffed his hands in his pockets.

"I asked you a question boy. I expect an answer." Adam said, the amusement in his voice turning to anger.

Little Joe finally looked up and met his oldest brother's gaze. He pulled his hands out of his pockets and said. "Well, you see Adam…." And took off running down the back alley.

It took Adam a moment to realize he had been duped. He gave chase, but knew the head start that Little Joe had would prevent him from catching his swift youngest brother. "Damn" he swore to himself cursing the speed that Little Joe had been blessed with.

Little Joe chanced a quick look behind him and saw the fury on Adam's face. But judging the distance between them he knew he would get away. He even chanced a laugh that made its way back to his older brother's ears. He rounded the corner of the last building and ran straight into Hoss, bounced off him and landed on his butt. It knocked the breath out of him, but he had already started to rise when Adam came around the corner and grabbed him by the collar. He pulled the struggling boy to his feet.

"Dang it Adam, he almost got clean away. I told you to get a hold of him and not let go." Hoss sputtered.

"A mistake I won't make again I assure you" Adam said, trying to catch his breath.

Little Joe smiled sheepishly. "What're you two doing in town on a Tuesday night?"

"Hoss and I have been chasing a stubborn little jackrabbit who doesn't know what's best for him." Adam said finally catching his breath.

Hoss nodded and said "I believe I'll ask you the same question baby brother, but from what I saw upstairs I think I already know the answer."

Sheriff Coffee and Doc Martin arrived a moment or so later, huffing and puffing.

Roy said. "Hoss for a big man you sure can move." He bent over and rested his hands on his knees as he tried to catch his breath.

"Well it’s a good thing I do. Otherwise our little criminal would have gotten clean away." Hoss said.

"All right, all right. I won’t let it happen again I told you." Adam said as he gave Little Joe a shake but didn’t loosen his grip on his young brother's collar. "Quit riding me." Adam's said, his mood not improving with the razzing.

Joe looked at the men around him. He knew he was in deep trouble. He didn’t even want to think of how deep. "I don’t suppose we could cut a deal?"

The doctor and the sheriff laughed, but Adam shook his brother again. "No deals."

Little Joe twisted around to look at his oldest brother. "But, Adam…."

Adam grabbed the boy’s chin. "I said no deals." And don’t give me those puppy dog eyes of yours. It isn’t going to work this time."

Joe’s eyes narrowed to match his oldest brothers. "No hope there" he said to himself. He decided to try another target. "Hoss?"

Hoss had the grace to chuckle. "Not this time Joe. You know yourself there’s no way around Adam there when he has his mind made up. Not to mention those two." He said jerking his thumb in the general direction of the sheriff and the doctor.

Little Joe paled and bit his lip. He looked even younger than his fifteen years. The adrenaline that had sustained him up till now was starting to run out. He hadn’t even noticed the pain from his shoulder until now, but it came coursing back through him.

Doc Martin, seasoned professional that he was, had watched Joe closely though the whole exchange. He knew that when the high level of energy that Joe was running on started to diminish he would be in pain. "C’mon. Let’s get him back to my office. I want to take a look at his shoulder."

"What for? I’m fine." Little Joe said defiantly.

"I’ve had enough of your opinion for the evening. Hoss-you go and clear out the International House. I want everyone out except for Sloan, Garner and his buddies. I’ll be over after I take Little Joe to the doctors office." Adam said.

Hoss nodded. "Don't let go of him. I mean it Adam." He said, then turned and walked toward the International House.

"You, baby brother are going to do exactly as I say. Is that clear?"

"But Adam.." Joe started.

Sheriff Coffee smirked. The day the Joe Cartwright did as he was told was a long way off. He hoped Adam realized that as well as he did.

Let’s go." Adam said and dragged his young brother along with him.

After making sure his young brother was safely in the examining room of the Doctor's office, Adam said. "Now I’m trusting the two of you to be able to keep an eye on that boy while I finish what he started."

Knowing how difficult the task would be, Sheriff Coffee opened his eyes wide. "You know I’d really rather help you over at the International House. You might need me." He said.

Adam chuckled. "What I’m going to do I’m not sure the law would approve of. I’d appreciate it if you stayed right here."

Roy nodded. "If you say so Adam. I’ll keep an eye on the young scamp." Roy knew he could trust Adam to not do anything too illegal, and if the truth be told, he thought Sloan and Garner had it coming.

Adam turned to his young brother and despite his protests helped him up on the examining table. The fire had gone out of his eyes and he was breathing shallowly. "Joe, you do exactly what these to tell you to do you hear me?" he said softly.

Little Joe thrust out his jaw. He saw the menacing look his older brother shot him and thought better of it. "Okay."

"Now keep an eye on that door." Adam said to the two men. "I don’t want him getting away after all the trouble it was to catch him."

"We'll keep an eye on him. Don't worry Adam." Sheriff Coffee smiled.

Adam knew he could believe them. They wouldn't let his baby brother out of their sight. Adam looked at his young brother sitting on the table. He had to smile when he noticed for the first time how Little Joe was dressed. His young brother's outfit mirrored his own black trousers and shirt but Joe had added a green bandana tied at his throat. Adam was sure Joe didn't realize the imitation, but it made Adam smile.

Little Joe looked up at his oldest brother and tried to match his smile, but wasn't able to control the trembling. "Adam, Pa's going to be awful mad."

"I think that is the understatement of the century." Adam said, rolling his eyes.

Little Joe bit his lips, and threw out what he thought was his last hope of avoiding punishment. "You don't suppose we could just keep this between us do you?" he said, looking hopefully at the three men in the room.

The laughter that met his question dashed any hopes that he may have had. Joe was in for it, and big time. His mind started to imagine what awaited him at home, but he shook his head to clear the unpleasant thoughts. A knack he had of actually avoiding conscious thought of punishment before it arrived.

Adam turned and motioned for Doc Martin to follow him. Glancing at his patient and certain that the Sheriff could handle him, the two men went into the waiting room. Adam paced a moment in the small room, and put his hand on his chin.

"Paul, I want you to check him over real good." Adam said, staring into the older man's eyes. "I about had a heart attack when I saw him come off that roof at me. And as much as I want to see him get what's coming to him…."

Paul put up his hand to stop any further words. "Don't worry. I'll give him the regular Joe Cartwright examination which takes twice as long as a normal person's. There is no way I'm going to allow any punishment until I see what shape he's in."

Adam nodded his thanks. "But, Paul.."

Doc Martin had had enough. He pushed Adam out the front door and said. "Now go take care of those bad influences that put him in that card game in the first place."

Adam smiled. "Those bad influences are still probably out in the bunkhouse at home. That's how he learned to play poker you know."

"I know, I remember. Now get going. I can't swear how long I can manage to keep him still. Roy and I aren't getting any younger you know." Doc Martin chuckled.

Adam laughed and jogged up the street to the International House.

Doc Martin ran a hand through his gray thinning hair. He took a deep breath and turned to go examine the most difficult patient he had ever encountered in his thirty years of medical practice.

Joe Cartwright sat on the edge of the large examining table, swinging his legs back and forth. It looked to Doc Martin like the boy had got his second wind, which was going to make this exam even more difficult. The oversize table was covered with a white sheet and had restraining straps at each end. He hoped the boy didn't have that much energy left because he hated tying down any patient, but especially children.

"Help me get his shirt off will you Roy? Doc Martin said as he walked over to stand in front of his young patient.

Little Joe glared at the two men and held his the front of his shirt tightly closed.

I think you'd best cooperate with us, boy. I don't want to add to your problems tonight by telling your Pa you were disrespectful." Roy said.

Little Joe groaned and swore softly.

"What was that I heard? I don't think Ben'd like to hear you swearing either." Roy said. "Now lets get a move on."

Little Joe dropped his hands that were holding his shirt together. He looked at both of the men and knew they were right. He was caught and there was no way he was going to get out of it.

"You must be crazy, boy. Jumping off that roof like that. Lucky you didn't break your damn fool neck." Roy said as he helped Joe take off his shirt.

When Doc Martin got his first look at his patient's back he was glad to see the lashes were almost healed. Though Little Joe still looked exhausted, he seemed to be in a little better shape than he found him in last week. He had waited till the lashes were healed to cast the boy’s broken shoulder blade to prevent any chance of infection. He’d have to include the right arm in the cast as well to keep it still. He rarely used casts because they were so cumbersome and bulky, but they did do a great job of keeping the limb immobilized. If possible he always used one on the boy, in fact the very first cast he had ever used was on Little Joe Cartwright. Cumbersome and bulky was what kept the boy in bed where threats wouldn't. Problem was it took the plaster a couple of hours to set, and the patient had to lay perfectly still. Paul looked at the clock on the wall. No, he didn't have time, he decided. He'd wrap him tightly and then after they got him home and in bed asleep he'd do it. If Joe know he was going to cast his shoulder, he'd fight him tooth and nail. Doc Martin smiled. This wasn't going to be a pleasant evening for the youngest Cartwright.

Joe sat on the examining table, taking slow even breaths as he was poked and prodded. It was the only way to control the pain and it didn't always work. They eased him down on his back, and the Doc pressed his fingers into the fading bruises along Joe's ribcage. Little Joe pressed his lips together and squeezed his eyes shut in a grimace. Doc and Sheriff looked at each other over the squirming body of the patient. Doc ran his fingers over the ribs, pressing and testing for new injuries. He looked at Joe's face and saw how pale he had become. "Well Joe, those cracked ribs that had started to heal are back where they started. You're lucky they aren't broken after you jumped off that roof.

Joe nodded as a gasp escaped his lips.

The Doc's hands traced up the boy's chest. He knew he wouldn't get an accurate or truthful response but always asked anyway. "Where else does it hurt Little Joe?"

Little Joe shook his head. "Nowhere. I'm fine." He opened his eyes and pleaded with the Doc. "Just let me alone."

Doc Martin smiled at his young patient laying on the table and ruffled the golden brown curls. "Son, you know I don't believe you."

Joe licked his lips. He had to get out of this situation and fast. Adam and Hoss would be back soon and he couldn't be here. His mind was foggy from the pain and he couldn't think clearly, but his eyes darted back and forth around the room, like a caged wild animal frantically looking for a way to escape.

Doc and Sheriff recognized the look, it was one they had seen many times before. Coffee pulled over a straight-backed chair and put it next to the head of the examining table. He sat down wearily and looked at Doc Martin who was checking Joe's right arm. He couldn't resist as most people in Virginia City couldn't, and he tousled Little Joe's hair. He smiled as he wondered how many times he had actually done it, but the boy never really seemed to mind. He put a comforting yet restraining hand on the boy's uninjured shoulder before speaking. "You just rest easy, son. This'll be over soon."

Joe relaxed slightly and took a deep breath. But the breath shot fire into his ribs, but when he tried to double over restraining hands held him in place. Green eyes wavered, and filled with tears. Doc ran his hand along the youngster's collarbone and was dismayed to find it broken also. He definitely would have to put that cast on tonight. That should keep him down for several weeks, at least enough time to get the healing process started. Satisfied that he had found the injuries on Little Joe's chest, Doc though to himself for the thousandth time how much easier this would be if he had a cooperative patient. If he could simply ask him where it hurt and get a truthful answer. But that wasn't the way it was going to be. That's why he had to be extra thorough with this patient and watch the boy's face carefully to see the answer to his questions.

"Roy, help me turn him over will you?"

"I'm fine. Just let me alone." Little Joe said with a snarl.

Doc Martin decided that Joe was getting just a little too feisty for his own good. "Thank you Dr. Cartwright, but I will have to answer to your father tonight on your condition, and I will complete my examination with or without your cooperation."

The "answer to your father" phrase had the desired effect on Little Joe. He shivered slightly and was still.

With the Sheriff's help, they succeeded in turning him half way over. Doc Martin took a deep breath and said. "Okay, Joe this is going to hurt."

Little Joe mumbled. "What's new about that."

Doc and Roy couldn't help but snicker. The boy had spirit.

Doc took the boy's arm and pulled it forward and away from his body, so Joe could lay flat. Little Joe bit his lip but a gasp still escaped his lips as he grabbed the side of the table. His breath came in short gasps as he fought to not cry out. His broken shoulder blade had shifted and needed to be repositioned. As the doctor started the process, Joe mercifully lost consciousness.

Doc Martin and Sheriff Coffee talked fondly about the boy laying before him as they tightly wrapped bandages around his injuries.

"I'm going to put a cast on this shoulder blade and arm later tonight after we get him home to Ben."

"Do you think that'll work?"

"It's the only way I can be certain that he's stay still long enough for that shoulder blade to heal. It's a long and painful process for a bone to heal and you know how hard it is to keep him quiet, let alone still." Doc said as he bandaged the boy's arm to his chest to hold it in place and not put any pressure on the shoulder blade.

Both men looked at the boy laying before them, who each loved like a son. He was swathed in bandages from his waist to his neck and his right arm was bandaged tightly across his chest.

Roy chuckled. "Now I'd say that if this was anyone but Little Joe Cartwright that he wasn't going anywhere."

Joe's eyes fluttered and he slowly woke up. It took a few moments for him to adjust to his surroundings, but when he realized where he was, he immediately tried to rise. Of course, his two capable babysitters were expecting just such a reaction and quickly put restraining hands on his chest and leg to prevent any movement.

The evening's events came rushing back to him and he started to panic. "I've got to get out of here." Joe said, more as a whisper to himself than to anyone.

A voice from the doorway said. "You're not going anywhere but home to face Pa."

Joe turned to follow the voice and was horrified to see his two older brothers. Hoss was rubbing his knuckles and Adam had his hands on his hips, a stern "You'll do exactly what I say look" on his face. Joe knew the look well.

Little Joe tried to smile from the table, but didn't succeed.

Doc Martin noticed Hoss' red knuckles and asked. "Are you okay?"

"Just fine. I don't think Sloan or Garner will forget this evening for a long time." Hoss said with a chuckle.

Joe tried to sit up. "Hoss, you didn't hurt Steve did you?"

Hoss pushed him back down on the table. "Yes I did little brother. He wasn't seeing too clearly out of his right eye when I left, and won't be talking much with that sore jaw. And, little brother I don't want to hear the name Steve Garner for a long time."

Adam smiled down at his baby brother and patted him on his unbandaged shoulder. "What's the diagnosis?"

He'll live" Doc Martin said. "Those cracked ribs are back where they started now, and I had to set his shoulder again." Doc looked Little Joe in the eyes before continuing. "Several weeks in bed and he'll be as good as new."

Little Joe groaned. "Several weeks. I can't handle several weeks."

"You can and you will, boy. Is he ready to go then?" Adam said.

"Just about," Doc said as he walked over to the shelves that served as his pharmacy. He selected a brown bottle, checked the label and brought it over to the table, retrieving a spoon along the way. "He just needs to take this, then we'll take him home in my buggy."

Adam nodded and watched as the doctor poured the thick muddy liquid onto the tablespoon. Hoss gently leaned Joe forward on the table to accept the medicine.

"You've got to be joking." Joe said through clenched teeth as he shook his head. "There is no way in hell I'm going to take that stuff."

"Sorry baby brother, but you have no choice in the matter." Hoss said as he gently pried open Joe's mouth. Doc Martin carefully poured the medicine in, and Hoss shut Joe's mouth forcing him to swallow.

Joe grimaced and shook his head. "Yuck." After he had shrugged off the aftertaste, he glared at Hoss.

"Sorry, Joe it had to be done." Hoss said with a slight smile.

The trip home was relatively uneventful. Normally Little Joe would have fallen asleep but he knew he faced his father's wrath when he got home. With the Doctor on one side and the Sheriff on the other, there was no chance for escape. Hoss and Adam followed behind the buggy on their horses, and led Cochise.

Ben was sitting at the table in the dining room of the house, leisurely sipping his breakfast coffee. He could smell bacon and eggs from the kitchen and was just about to go wake up his two oldest sons when he heard a buggy pull into the yard. He set his cup down on the saucer and walked to the door. He quietly opened the door and was dismayed to see the doctor's buggy with an unlikely passenger, his youngest son wrapped in blankets seated between Doc Martin and Sheriff Roy Coffee.

Ben stormed out the door and demanded to know what was going on. Paul Martin jumped out of the buggy and handed the reins to the Sheriff. "Now Ben, let’s talk a minute before you do anything you’ll regret." He said as he pushed him back through the doorway into the house.

"Now before you get all upset. He’s fine. I had to re-set his shoulder blade, and he’s wrapped up tighter than before. But, he’ll be fine." Doc said.

Ben dropped his face into his hands. "What’s he been up to Paul?"

Paul shook his head. "I’ll leave that to your boys to tell you. But before you get to all that I want to talk about some discipline for his actions. I know that normally for an offense like this you would tan him soundly."

Ben nodded.

"And that’s exactly what I want you to do."

Ben had to look at his friend twice before responding. "But he has a broken shoulder, and those ribs. He has to be in a lot of pain anyway."

"I’ll grant you that he’s not feeling the greatest. I gave him some painkillers to help with his pain right now, but he needs to be punished for what he did tonight."

Ben shook his head. Without knowing the actual discretion, it was hard to imagine punishing the pale face he had seen in the buggy.

"Believe me Ben, when you hear what he’s been doing, you’ll have no problem coming up with an adequate punishment. I do want to add that I think it would be detrimental to his health to not give him what he deserves."

"What do you mean."

"You know how Little Joe is. If you let it go, he’ll sit up in his room waiting for it to happen. He’s not going to sleep, nor eat or rest. He’s just going to worry himself to a frazzle, and it won't matter how much you reassure him that it’s forgotten, he’s not going to let himself relax."

"You’re right. I know it. But Doc, I can’t promise. I’ll just have to see what the situation is."

"That’s all I ask Ben." Doc said with a smile.

Both men turned as the door opened. Adam walked through the door followed by Hoss who was helping Little Joe through the door. Sheriff Coffee brought up the rear. Joe was doing his best to walk normally. He wasn’t happy that Hoss insisted on holding onto his arm and offering support. He knew he was in trouble but if he was able to put one over on his family and get them to think he wasn’t really hurt, maybe he could drastically lower the several weeks bed rest that Doc had mentioned earlier. He forced himself to stand even straighter and put a little more bounce in his step, despite the pain it caused him.

Ben walked over to his desk and stood behind it. The rest of the group followed, and Hoss eased Little Joe down in the leather wingback chair that sat before the desk. Joe sat very straight in the chair, hoping to project a look of health. Ben glanced at him briefly and then sought out his oldest son. "Suppose you tell me exactly what is going on here Adam."

Adam nodded, cracking his knuckles as he paced before the desk. "You better sit down Pa."

Ben eased himself into the chair and put his hands on top of the desk. "I’m waiting." He said, the anger apparent in his eyes.

Adam opened his mouth to speak, and nothing came out. He had been running though the scenario of catching Little Joe so many times in his mind, but explaining to his father was the one part he had overlooked. He looked at the boy sitting in the chair beside him, tousled curls falling down the forehead, the hazel eyes wide with fear. Adam was suddenly unsure of himself. He looked at Hoss, whose expression mirrored his own.

"I said I’m waiting." Ben said a little louder.

Sheriff Coffee had to suppress a chuckle. He had heard both Adam and Hoss rant about dragging their baby brother home to Pa, but he knew that when the time came to tell all they would have a problem. They were as protective of the boy as everyone else in the town. But right was right. "Ben, why don’t you let me explain…."

As Roy told the sordid tale of his youngest son sneaking out the ledge via his window, the late nights at the International House and the poker playing, Ben’s face darkened and his hands gripped the corner of the desk, the knuckles white with strain.

Hoss and Adam sat on the arms of the wing chair close to their little brother, trying to provide some comfort. They looked at their father as the storm in his eyes started with a simple rainstorm, escalated to thunderstorm, and was followed by an all out tornado. At each level Little Joe slouched down further into the chair.

The medicine the doctor had given him dulled the pain in his shoulder and ribs, but it couldn’t slow the rapid beating of his heart. He was sure that everyone in the room could hear it.

Ben was so angry he couldn’t trust himself to speak. He clenched and unclenched his fists as Roy completed the story.

Ben took a deep breath, trying to calm his anger. He ran his hand through his silver hair and looked at his three boys. "Hoss, Adam."

They both stood quickly and responded "Yes sir."

"Take your baby brother upstairs and get him undressed. He looked Little Joe in the eye. We will have a discussion about your behavior that you will not soon forget." Ben said sternly.

Little Joe was frightened. He had seen his father fight to compose himself. This was the angriest he could ever remember seeing his father.

Hoss gently took Little Joe’s arm and said. "C’mon Little Joe. Let’s go upstairs."

Doc Martin rubbed his hands together as he watched the three Cartwright sons ascend the stairs. When he heard the door to Little Joe’s room shut, he turned to Ben. "As I said earlier, I wouldn't suggest an overly aggressive spanking, but one is certainly warranted. And if you take it easy, but lay the lecture on thick this time I think he will definitely get your point."

Ben was livid. He couldn’t believe what his youngest had been up to. Joe had blatantly disobeyed. Willfully flouted the rules that were there for his protection. Ben took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He sat at his desk for several minutes before he trusted himself to go upstairs. He nodded to his friend and climbed the stairs. He opened the door and saw his youngest son standing between his two brothers. The boy was wearing one of Hoss' flannel shirts, which came down past his knees.

"Out-both of you out. I will handle Joseph." Ben said managing to keep his voice calm.

"But Pa.." Adam started.

"Don't you even think of questioning me. It's bad enough that your baby brother willfully disobeys my instructions, I won't have you do it too. Now get!" Ben said, letting his anger flare again.

Hoss and Adam trudged dejectedly down the stairs. They still could hear their father’s angry words as they reached the last step and walked over to the table. They joined the Sheriff and Doctor at the table and started to eat the breakfast that Hop Sing had lovingly prepared. The rhythmic sound of a belt rising and falling trickled down the stairs. They could hear the sounds of Ben continuing to chastise his young son even between the blows.

Sheriff Coffee winked at Doc Martin before speaking. "You know this is for the best boys. Just think about the merry chase he led us on."

Adam had to smile at that as he thought of the late nights they had been spending trying to catch the little snot. "I guess you’re right Roy."

"Course I am." Roy said, eating a forkful of eggs.

"Do you think he’ll learn his lesson this time?" Hoss said.

All the men at the table chuckled, knowing that the youngest Cartwright had many years to come of such lessons.

The End