The sun was barely up as the four Cartwrights walked slowly out of the house, ready to start the day’s work. The four men were headed to the barn to saddle their horses before riding off on various tasks. All were surprised to see a rider coming into the yard at this early hour. The rider was a man in his fifties, with gray hair, and wearing the clothes of a working cowboy.

“Hello, Ben,” said the rider cheerfully as he halted his horse. “Hi boys!”

“Hello, John,” Ben Cartwright said pleasantly, although his voice was tinged with surprise. “What brings you to the Ponderosa so early in the day?”

“I’m on my way to Virginia City but I wanted to stop by for a minute,” replied John Benson, the rider. He shifted uncomfortably in his saddle. “Uh, do you have any plans for the 27th?” he asked in a hesitant voice.

Ben frowned. “The 27th,” he said. He looked quickly at his sons. Adam, Hoss and Joe shrugged and shook their heads. “I don’t think so,” said Ben, turning back to the rider. “Why?”

“I wanted to invite you to a wedding,” Benson said, looking a bit embarrassed. Then he grinned. “I’m getting married!” he announced.

“Married!” exclaimed Adam. “That’s great, John!”

“I didn’t even know you were courting!” added Ben. His face showed both surprise and pleasure. “Who’s the lucky woman?”

“Mary Wilson,” replied Benson. “We’ve been courting about two months now. We kind of kept quiet about it. But last night, I asked her and she said yes. We’ve settled on the 27th for the wedding and I want all of you to come. It’ll be at my ranch.”

“We’ll be there,” promised Hoss, with a big smile. “We wouldn’t miss it for anything!”

“Great!” exclaimed Benson. His face faded into a wistful look. “It’s been kind of lonely at my place since my wife died and my daughters got married. I’ve been rattling around all alone in that big old house for almost two years.” Benson’s face broke into a smile again. “It’s going to be wonderful having Mary there.”

“I’m sure it will be,” agreed Ben. “You’re a lucky man, John.”

“I know it,” Benson replied. “Mary’s a very special woman. Well, I’d better be getting on to Virginia City,” he said, turning his horse. Suddenly, Benson pulled his animal to a stop. “Oh Ben,” he said as if a thought suddenly occurred to him. “Is it true you’re selling off part of the Ponderosa?”

Ben looked startled. “Selling off part of the Ponderosa?” he repeated. “No. Where did you get an idea like that?”

“Fellow named Roger Stevens,” answered Benson. “He was in town the other day claiming he was going to buy part of your land so he could harvest the timber. You know how the mines are always looking for timber. He was bragging he was going to make a fortune.”

“Roger Stevens is a liar,” Adam said heatedly.

“Now, Adam,” Ben said in a soothing voice to his oldest son. Ben turned back to Benson. “Stevens came out and made a proposal to buy some land. I turned him down,” explained Ben.

“Thought it sounded strange,” Benson said with a nod. He grinned once more. “I’ll see you boys on the 27th,” he reminded them. “It’s going to be a humdinger of a wedding and party!”

“We’ll be there,” promised Ben. He waved as Benson turned his horse and rode off.

“Pa, you’re not thinking of selling off any land, are you?” asked Joe as he stepped forward.

A far-away look on his face, Ben didn’t seem to hear his youngest son.

“Pa?” Joe said again.

Looking a bit startled, Ben said “What? Oh.”  He quickly shook his head. “No, of course not,” said Ben.

Hoss frowned as he looked at his father. “Pa, are you all right?” asked Ben’s middle son with concern.

“I’m fine, Hoss,” Ben reassured his son. “I was just thinking.”

“Thinking about what?” asked Adam curiously.

“Oh, just remembering really,” answered Ben in a soft voice. “I was remembering what it’s like when you get married. It’s such a special feeling. There’s nothing quite like it.” Ben smiled as his eyes misted over. Then, abruptly, he cleared his throat. “Well, we’re not getting any work done standing around here. Let’s get saddled and get started.” Ben walked quickly to the barn.

“Pa had kind of a funny look on his face,” said Hoss as he watched his father walk to the barn.

“Yeah, he did,” agreed Joe. He thought for a minute. “You know, maybe Pa ought to think about getting married again.”

“Married again?” exclaimed Adam. “He’s been married three times. I don’t think he’s interested in another wife.”

“It’s been a long time since my mother died,” Joe said defensively. “Maybe it’s time for him to start thinking about marriage again.”

“I think Pa can make up his own mind about something like that,” said Adam wryly.

“I don’t know, Adam,” said Hoss. “I kinda agree with Joe. Pa’s been so busy raising us and looking after the ranch, maybe he just hasn’t had time to think about getting married.”

“Remember the 4th of July picnic?” asked Joe. “Pa spent almost the whole day with Mary Wilson. But then we had that cattle drive, and he got busy with the new timber contracts. And now John Benson is marrying her. Maybe Pa’s just been too busy to go courting.”

“Yeah,” said Hoss. “And it’s been a long time. Maybe Pa just don’t remember what it’s like.”

“And I suppose you’re the one to help him,”  Adam said to Hoss in a tone of disbelief. “You can’t even look at a girl without turning red.”

“I think Hoss may have something,” said Joe. “Maybe he just needs a push.”

“I think Pa can do his own courting, without any help from you two,” Adam said, with a shake of his head. “You stay out of Pa’s love life. Now, let’s to work.” Adam walked toward the barn.

“I still think Pa needs a push,” Joe said to Hoss. “We just have to find the right woman.”

“Yeah, but how we gonna do that?” asked Hoss.

“I don’t know,” admitted Joe. “It’s going to take some thinking.” 

While Ben rode to check on the timber camp and Adam took off to check fences, Joe and Hoss rode toward the herd of cattle grazing in the south pasture. Their task was to check on the herd, and gather any straying cattle back to the pasture. Hoss and Joe spent the morning riding through the hills near the pasture, looking for strays. At noon, they met at the edge of the pasture. Both settled under a shady elm for something to eat.

“How about Mrs. Watkins?” Hoss said without explanation. He knew Joe had been speculating on possible mates for their father all morning, just as he had been.

“Mrs. Watkins?” Joe said with surprise. “She’s got to be close to eighty!”

“She’s not that old,” Hoss said defensively. “Besides, she sets a real fine table.”

“She looks eighty,” said Joe. “And doesn’t make any difference if she can cook. Hop Sing will never let her in the kitchen anyway.”

“Yeah, there’s that,” admitted Hoss.

“No, we have to find someone younger than Pa, someone who can take care of him,” said Joe. He sat quietly for a minute, thinking. “What about Mrs. Landers? She’s a widow, but only in her thirties, and she’s really attractive.”

“But, Joe, she’s got those two young’ns,” Hoss protested. “I’m not sure I’m ready to have some youngsters around the place.”

“You’re right,” said Joe with a nod of his head. “Pa isn’t as young as he used to be. It might be too much for him raising some young children at his age.”

Joe and Hoss sat silently as they ate, both running over the names of potential candidates in their minds and rejecting each for a variety of reasons.

“I got it!” Joe said suddenly, sitting up. “Beth Robinson!”

“Beth Robinson?” repeated Hoss doubtfully.

“Sure, she’s perfect,” said Joe enthusiastically. “She’s about forty, never been married, and she’s real nice.”

“Yeah, but Joe, she’s kind of average looking,” said Hoss. “Besides, ain’t she seeing that Walsh fellow who runs the hardware store?”

“She isn’t a raving beauty,” Joe admitted. “But she’s not ugly or anything, and she’s fun. Besides there’s much more to a woman than just looks. Some of the most boring women I know are the ones everybody thinks are beautiful. And I don’t think she and Walsh are serious. They’ve been seeing each other for a long time, but only at dances and stuff.”

“Maybe you’re right,” Hoss said thoughtfully. “She seems real nice, and she’s smart, too.
I saw her playing chess at the church social. That would give her and Pa something to do at night.”

“I think they could think of a few other things,” Joe said wryly. Then he frowned. “Now we’ve got to think of a way to get them together.”

Again, both Hoss and Joe sat silently as they plotted and planned in their minds.

“I know!” Joe said snapping his fingers. “We’ll invite her to dinner on Sunday. And then we’ll get Pa to drive her home.”

“Do you think that would work?” asked Hoss.

“Well, it’s a start,” Joe said. “Once we get Pa to start thinking about her, we can start nudging him in the right direction.”

“Yeah,” said Hoss with a smile. Then he frowned. “But what’ll we tell Pa? I mean, we can’t just come out and tell him we’re inviting Miss Beth to dinner to get him to start courting her.”

“Of course not,” Joe said with a trace of disgust in his voice. “We’ll tell Pa she’s coming because she wants to talk about the fund raiser they’re having at the church for the orphans of the miners who were killed. And we’ll tell Beth the same thing. They’re both on the committee. That’ll give them something to talk about it.”

“Little brother, you sure are the smart one,” Hoss said. Then he shook his head. “Do you really think it’ll work?”

“I’m sure of it,” said Joe confidently. 

Joe polished the foot of his boot on the back of his leg as he stood outside the door to Beth Robinson’s house in Virginia City. He and Hoss had spent the last two days discussing their plan. Now it was time to go into action. Hoss had been charged with talking to Hop Sing about cooking a special dinner for Sunday. Joe’s job was to invite Beth Robinson to that dinner.

Ben hadn’t been surprised when Joe volunteered to go into Virginia City to pick up the mail earlier that day. Joe usually managed to find an excuse to go to town so he could visit the Silver Dollar Saloon while he was there. But Joe had no intention of visiting the saloon today. He didn’t want to smell of beer and cigar smoke as he called on the woman he hoped would be his future step-mother.

After knocking politely on the door of the house, Joe stepped back to wait. In only a minute, the door opened and a woman in her forties stood in the doorway. She had ash blonde hair, pulled back into a tight bun, and wore a simply gingham dress. The features of her face were ordinary, with perhaps a too large nose set in the middle. However, the
woman smiled pleasantly as she saw who was standing on her porch.

“Little Joe Cartwright!” Beth Robinson said in surprise, using a nickname Joe tended to dislike. It make him feel like a kid, rather than the grown-up he considered himself to be.

“Hello, Miss Robinson,” Joe said, flashing his most charming smile.

“What brings you here?” asked Beth curiously.

“Pa asked me to stop by to invite you to Sunday dinner,” Joe said.

“Sunday dinner?” replied Beth in surprise.

“Yeah, he, uh, wants to talk about the fund raiser,” Joe explained quickly. “He thought you and he might discuss some of the details after dinner.”

“Oh, that’s odd,” said Beth with a frown. “We had a committee meeting last week, and I thought we had worked out everything then.”

“Well, yeah,” said Joe, thinking furiously. He had been unaware of the committee meeting. “Pa, uh, he just wants to go over things again, make sure they’re right.”

Beth shrugged. “Well, all right,” she said. She smiled at Joe. “Sunday dinner with four handsome men sounds pretty nice. Shall I come about three?”

“Why don’t you make it about two?” Joe said, flashing his smile again. “You and Pa can talk before dinner, and then after dinner, maybe you two could take a walk or something.”

Beth look at Joe speculatively. “A walk?” she said. “Did your Pa suggest that?”

“Well, no,” admitted Joe. “But I was just thinking… I mean, well, you’d like that, wouldn’t you?” Joe finished lamely.

Beth studied Joe for a minute then smiled. “Of course,” she said. “I’ll see you on Sunday.”

Joe let out a sigh of relief as Beth closed the door. He realized he had come on a little too strong, and hoped he hadn’t spoiled things. As he turned and walked off the porch, Joe had a smug look on his face.
 

At dinner that evening, Joe wondered how to bring up the invitation for Sunday dinner to his father. He wanted the idea to appeal to his father. Joe toyed with the food on his plate as he thought through the next step in his plan.

“Joseph, are you going to eat or just play with your food?” Ben demanded, breaking into Joe’s thoughts.

Startled, Joe looked up. “Oh, sorry,” he apologized and immediately forked a piece of meat into his mouth. He looked at Hoss, who grinned back at his brother.

“Uh, Pa, when I was in town today, I ran into Beth Robinson,”  started Joe as casually as possible.

“That Miz Robinson, she’s a real nice lady, ain’t she,” said Hoss with a smile. Hoss’ smile quickly disappeared as Joe glared at his brother.

“Well, yes, yes she is,” answered Ben in a puzzled voice.

“Anyway,” Joe said, looking firmly at his brother, “she said she needed to talk with you about that fund raiser you’re working on.”

“Oh really,” Ben said with a frown. “I thought we had worked out all the details at the committee meeting. What else could she need to talk with me about?”

“I don’t know, Pa,” Joe said with a shrug. “She just said she needed to talk with you.”

“All right,” said Ben with a sigh. “I’ll ride into town tomorrow and see her.”

“No, you don’t have to do that,” Joe said hastily. “I mean, I know how busy you are at the timber camp and all. So I suggested she come out to Sunday dinner. I thought you could talk with her before dinner, and then we could all enjoy a real nice meal.”

“That was a good idea, Joseph,” Ben said, nodding his head in approval. “I’ll talk to Hop Sing and ask him to fix something special.”

“Oh, you don’t have to do that either, Pa,” Hoss chimed in quickly. When Ben looked him with a puzzled expression, Hoss continued, “I mean, I’ll talk with him. I’ll ask him to fix some chicken and dumplings.”

“All right,” said Ben, shaking his head a bit. He had the feeling his sons were up to something but he couldn’t quite figure out what.

Adam had been watching and listening silently. Now he shook his head as he saw Joe and Hoss grinning at each other like a pair of Cheshire cats. He had an idea about what his brothers were doing. He just couldn’t believe they were being so blatant about it.

“Adam, I got a message from the Stevens fellow today,” Ben said, changing the subject. “He’s made another offer. He wants to buy the timber land down by the lake.”

“Down by the lake!” exclaimed Joe in alarm.

“Don’t worry, Joe,” said Ben in a soothing voice. “I’m not about to sell him that land.” Ben turned to Adam. “But he hinted at something that he found that might cause some question about our deed to that land. Do you have any idea what that could be?”

After thinking a minute, Adam shook his head. “No, I don’t,” replied Adam. He looked at the growing concern on Joe’s face. “Our ownership of that land is the most solid we have,” he continued. “There’s no way he could call it into question.” Joe looked somewhat mollified, but he still frowned.

“I tend to agree,” said Ben. “I think he’s just bluffing, trying to get us to sell the land. But I want you to check with our lawyers anyway. Also, check with the land office. Make sure there’s nothing we’ve overlooked.”

“I’ll do it first thing in the morning,” Adam promised.
 

Joe and Hoss spent the rest of the week in nervous anticipation of Sunday’s dinner. They both checked with Hop Sing on the menu so many times that the Chinese cook threatened to serve bread and water if they didn’t leave him alone. Hoss and Joe also tried to clean and straighten the house, although they were careful not to do it when their father was around. By Saturday, both were a nervous wreck.

“Beth Robinson, eh,” Adam said in unconcealed amusement as he watched his brothers dusting. Ben was still at the timber camp, and Joe and Hoss thought it was a good time to give the house one last cleaning. Adam was leaning against the wall by the front door, his arms folded as he watched his brothers with glee. “So she’s the one you’ve chosen for Pa,” continued Adam.

Joe looked up from the table behind the sofa. He was dusting the ebony statue of a rearing horse that sat on the table. “What’s wrong with Beth Robinson?” asked Joe with a frown.

“Nothing, nothing,” replied Adam airily. “Beth’s a real nice lady. Too nice, in fact, to be the victim of your twisted plot.”

“It’s no plot,” Hoss protested as he ran a rag over the pair of longhorns hanging over the fireplace. “We’re just giving Pa a little nudge, that’s all.”

“A little nudge?” said Adam. “It’s more like a shove. You’re pushing him right into Beth’s arms.”

“Well, what’s wrong with that?” Joe said. “We’re just giving Pa a little help. After that, he’s on his own.”

“I told you two before to stay out of Pa’s love life,” replied Adam. “It’s none of your business.”

“A little help from you wouldn’t hurt, you know,” said Hoss. “We want to make this place look real nice.”

Adam held up his hands. “Oh no, you’re not dragging me into this,” he protested. “I want to be sure Pa knows I had absolutely nothing to do with this.”  With that, Adam turned and walked out the door.

“Joe, you sure we’re doing the right thing here?” asked Hoss uncertainly. “I mean, maybe Adam’s right. Maybe we’re messing around with something that ain’t none of our business.”

“Hoss, all we’re doing is giving Pa a chance to see what’s right under his nose,” explained Joe patiently. “If he and Beth don’t hit it off, well, that’s the end of it.”

“Yeah, I guess,” Hoss said. He turned back to dusting the horns.

“Besides,” muttered Joe as he dusted the statue. “If this doesn’t work, there’s always Mrs. Landers.”
 

Beth Robinson arrived a few minutes after 2:00 on Sunday afternoon. It was a good thing she arrived when she did because Ben was quickly losing his patience with his younger sons. Joe and Hoss had been after him all day to take a bath, to put on a clean shirt, and to wear a tie. He couldn’t understand what the fuss was about. He and Beth were old friends. But Joe and Hoss kept insisting it was important that he look his best.

By noon, Ben was so exasperated with Joe and Hoss that he ordered them to their rooms to get cleaned up…and to stay there until Beth arrived. He even glared at Adam, who simply held up his hands and walked meekly up the stairs.

Grudgingly, Ben put on a new white shirt and tie as he got ready to greet his guest. He felt bad about yelling at his sons and thought this was one way to make it up to them. And he didn’t mind getting a bit dressed up for Beth Robinson, whom he liked and respected. But he was still puzzled by Joe and Hoss’ odd behavior. Ben rushed down the stairs and out the door as he heard a buckboard driving up.

As Beth Robinson halted her buckboard in front of the Ponderosa ranch house, she raised her eyebrows in surprise.  She saw Ben was wearing a white shirt and string tie She was dressed neatly, but not particularly fancy. She had assumed this was an informal dinner but now she wished she had worn something fancier.

“Hello, Beth,” said Ben heartily as he reached up to help her out of her buckboard.

“Hello, Ben” replied Beth as she climbed down. “Thank you for inviting me to dinner.”

“It was really Joe’s idea,” admitted Ben, “but I’m glad he thought of it.”

“Joe’s idea?” said Beth with a puzzled expression. “I thought sure he said you were the one who asked him to invite me.”

Before Ben could reply, Hoss and Joe came rushing out of the house. Both were wearing newly washed shirts and string ties. “Hello, Miss Robinson,” Joe said with a smile. “Welcome to the Ponderosa.”

“Hello, Little Joe,” replied Beth, not noticing Joe’s wince at the term she used. “Hello, Hoss,” Beth said, nodding at the biggest Cartwright.

“Howdy, ma’am,” replied Hoss. “I’ll just see to your horses.”

“Thank you, Hoss,” replied Beth graciously. She turned to Ben. “Well, Ben, we’d best discuss whatever questions you had about the fund raiser.”

“My questions?” said Ben, frowning. “I thought….”

“Why don’t you come into the house and have something to drink,” Joe said hurriedly, interrupting his father. He held out his arm to Beth, who took it with a smile. Ben watched the pair enter the house, a uneasy feeling nagging at him. He slowly walked into the house.

Joe escorted Beth on the sofa and seated with a flourish of his arm. Ben started to walk to his favorite red leather chair next to the fireplace but suddenly found his way barred by his youngest son. “Why don’t you sit on the sofa?” Joe suggested to his father.

The uneasy feeling Ben had was now growing. He suspected he finally knew what Hoss and Joe were up to. “I’ll sit in the chair, Joseph,” Ben said firmly, and pushed past his son. He could see Joe’s frustration as he sat several feel from his guest.

“Hello, Beth,” called Adam as he descended the stairs. “Nice to see you again.”

“Hello, Adam,” replied Beth with a smile.

“Um, Adam, could you help me for a minute?” Joe said suddenly. “I need you, uh, I need you to help me with something in the kitchen.”

“In the kitchen?” said Adam in an astonished voice.

“In the kitchen,” repeated Joe firmly.

“Oh, yes, of course,” said Adam slowly. He inclined his head to Beth. “If you’ll excuse me,” he said, and walked slowly across the room. Joe put his hand on Adam’s back and hustled him out of the living room.

“They’re fine boys, Ben,” Beth said with a smile as she looked at Joe and Adam’s departing backs.

“You may not think so in a little while,” replied Ben.

“Oh?” said Beth with surprise. “Why not?”

“Well, first, let me ask you,” said Ben. “Did you have some questions about the fund raiser?”

“No, I didn’t,” said Beth, her surprise growing. “I thought you did.”

“I thought so,” Ben replied, nodding. “Beth, I’m afraid you were invited out here under false pretenses. I think my boys are trying their hand at a little matchmaking.”

“Matchmaking!” said Beth. She laughed. “Ben, please don’t take this the wrong way. I like you. I like you a lot. But not romantically.”

Grinning, Ben replied,  “I’m glad you said that. I feel the same way. But for some reason, those sons of mine feel we’re a match made in heaven.”

“Oh Ben!” laughed Beth. “I’m so sorry.”

“No, I’m the one who’s sorry,” said Ben, smiling. “Both for what my sons tried to do, and for the fact that you and I aren’t going to be a couple. It might have been fun.”

“Yes, it might have been,” agreed Beth with a smile. “But I have an understanding with Sam Walsh. We’re sort of engaged to be engaged.” Beth stood. “Perhaps I’d better go.”

“Don’t feel you have to leave,” said Ben hastily. “Hop Sing has prepared a fine dinner. Please stay and eat with us.”

“No, I think I’d better leave,” Beth said. “Please give Hop Sing my apologies. And please apologize to your sons for me.”

“Don’t worry,” said Ben, his face darkening. “I plan to have a long talk with those boys of mine.”

Walking Beth to the door, Ben escorted her out. Hoss was surprised to hear Ben calling for the buckboard he had just put away. As he turned to retrieve the wagon from the barn, Hoss began to worry that their carefully crafted plan had gone awry.

After Ben had helped Beth into the buckboard which Hoss retrieved, he watched her drive off. Then he turned to his son. “Into the house,” he said angrily.

“But Pa…” Hoss started to say.

“Into the house!” repeated Ben. He turned and walked into the house. Hoss swallowed hard and followed his father slowly.

Hoss walked into the house just as Ben was yelling for Joe and Adam. Hoss stood by the door, waiting for his brothers. He didn’t want to face his father’s wrath alone.

As Joe and Adam came rushing from the kitchen, Joe asked” What’s wrong, Pa?” He looked around room. “Where’s Miss Robinson?” he asked.

“Miss Robinson has gone home,” Ben said, his voice angry. “She didn’t feel like staying around and being subjected to the inept matchmaking attempts of my lame-brained sons.”

Joe paled and swallowed hard. He looked at Hoss, who merely shrugged.

“Pa, let me explain,” said Joe in a hesitant voice.

“Oh yes, I’d be happy to hear your explanation,” said Ben, his anger still showing.

“Pa, we just thought maybe you’d been so busy, you just hadn’t have a chance to go courting,” Joe said. “We’d just thought we’d help you out a bit,” he finished lamely.

“Oh, you thought you’d help me out,” shouted Ben. “How nice of you!”

“Pa, we didn’t mean anything by it,” said Hoss, walking over to join his brothers. “We just thought maybe you needed a nudge to get back into circulation again.”

“Oh, so that’s it,” said Ben at the top of his voice. “You thought the poor old man didn’t know how to spark a woman any more, so you thought you’d do it for him.”

Joe winced at both his father’s tone and words. Suddenly what had seemed like a good idea sounded awfully dumb. “Pa, we didn’t mean it like that,” said Joe, trying to explain.

Ben looked past Joe at Adam. “What about you?” he demanded of his oldest son.

“Don’t look at me, Pa,” said Adam. “I didn’t have anything to do with this.”

“But you knew about it, didn’t you?” Ben demanded. When Adam remained silent, Ben continued. “You knew what your addle-headed brothers were doing and you didn’t stop them?”

Adam flushed guiltily and nodded.

“Now you listen to me, all of you,” said Ben. “I’m perfectly capable of running my own life. If I want to go courting, I will. I don’t need anyone to do it for me. And I don’t need you to find a wife. I will not stand for any further incidents like this, is that understood?”

Adam, Hoss and Joe nodded in unison.

Fixing an angry glare on all three of his sons, Ben said, “The next time you three decide to help me, do me a favor. Don’t!” He turned and walked up the stairs to his room, pulling his tie undone as he climbed the stairs.

Silently, Adam, Hoss and Joe stood in the living room, each of their faces downcast. Finally, Adam muttered, “I told you this was a bad idea.”

Looking up at Adam, Joe said defensively, “It seemed like a good idea at the time.”

“Joe, I told you not to interfere in something that wasn’t any of your business,” said Adam evenly.

“Well, yeah, I guess you did,” admitted Joe.

Hoss sniffed the air. “Smells like Hop Sing is still fixing chicken and dumplings for dinner,” he said, licking his lips. He looked at his brothers who were staring at him in astonishment. “Well, I mean, it would be a shame for all that good food to go to waste,” Hoss said. He shrugged. “Pa’s mad, but he’ll get over it.

“Yeah,” agreed Joe sadly. “He’ll get over it, but I have a feeling our life is going to be pretty miserable until he does.”
 

Breakfast the next morning was eaten in silence. Ben had skipped dinner with his sons, too angry with them to sit at the same table. His anger had cooled by morning, but he decided he was not yet ready to forgive them for what he felt was unwarranted interference. He had greeted his sons coldly at the breakfast table and ate his meal in silence.

Joe, Hoss, and Adam ate silently also. None wanted to start a conversation and possibly face a repeat of yesterday’s lecture. They ate silently and quickly.

“Adam, did you check on that land deed, like I asked,” said Ben suddenly. He fixed his angry stare on his oldest son.

“Yes, I did,” said Adam hastily. “Our lawyer couldn’t find anything wrong with the deed, and neither could the land agent.”

“Well, at least one of my sons did something right,” Ben said pointedly. Joe and Hoss flushed, and looked down at their plates.

Clearing his voice, Adam said slowly,  “Uh, Pa, our lawyer did suggest we might want to check the records up in Carson City, just to be sure. He said sometimes they have something on file up there that we might not be aware of down here.”

Ben stared at Adam for a minute. “Just when were you going to tell me this little bit of news?” he asked coldly.

“Well, it didn’t seem too important,” said Adam. “And we’ve been kind of busy.” Adam suddenly realized that it might not be wise to dwell on why they had been so busy. “I’ll go up to Carson City and check on it right away,” he said quickly.

“No, I’ll go,” said Ben. “I want to see the governor anyway about the new legislation he’s proposing on mine safety. I’ve got enough to do to keep me busy for a week or so up there.” Ben looked around the table. “A week away from you three might be just the thing.”

“I’ll drive you into town,” said Adam hastily as Joe and Hoss continued to look at their plates.

“Good,” said Ben placing his napkin on the table. He stood. “I’ll go and pack,” he said. “I want to catch the noon stage.” Ben walked away from the table.

“Whew! He sure is mad,” said Hoss.

“Yeah,” agreed Joe. “Maybe getting away from here for a week isn’t such a bad idea.”

“I’ll tell you one thing,” said Adam. “If he comes back and finds out you two have been slacking off on your chores, there really will be hell to pay.”
 

Adam pulled the buckboard to a halt in front of the stage depot. “I’ll get your ticket to Carson City,” he said quickly. Ben just nodded. Adam scrambled out of the buckboard and walked to the ticket window.

“Mr. Cartwright! Mr. Cartwright!” a voice shouted. Ben looked around. A well-dressed man in his thirties was walking quickly down the street, waving his hand.

“Mr. Cartwright!” the man said in a breathless voice as he rushed up to the buckboard. “Roger Stevens,” he said, holding out his hand. “Nice to see you again.”

Ben took the man’s hand slowly and shook it briefly. “Mr. Stevens,” he said.

“I was wondering if you had thought any more about my offer?” Stevens asked.

“There’s nothing to think about,” replied Ben. “That land is not for sale.”

“Mr. Cartwright, I don’t think you understand the situation,” said Stevens. “The mines in Virginia City need timber for shoring. They can’t get enough of it. If you sell me that land, I will harvest the timber and sell it to the mines. We can both make a tidy profit.”

“The land is not for sale,” repeated Ben.

“But why?” asked Stevens. “It’s not being used now. All it’s doing is sitting there.”

“My reasons are my own,” said Ben. “The land is not for sale.”

Adam came back to the buckboard. “Here’s your ticket to Carson City,” he said, handing Ben a slip of paper. “The stage leaves in about 30 minutes. I got you a return ticket for next week, too.”

“Mr. Cartwright…” Stevens tried to continue, looking at Ben a bit desperately.

“Mr. Stevens, this discussion is over,” Ben said firmly. “The land is not for sale.”

Standing next to the buckboard, Stevens’ face had a dejected look. He was trying to think of something to say, something to do to change Ben Cartwright’s mind.

“Oh Ben,” another voice shouted. Ben looked up and saw John Benson hurrying toward him.

“Hello, John,” Ben greeted his friend. “How’s the bridegroom?”

“Nervous,” Benson admitted. He looked at the suitcase in the buckboard. “Are you leaving town?” he asked.

“Just going up to Carson City for a week or so,” replied Ben. “Don’t worry. I’ll be back in time for your wedding.”

“Good,” Benson said with a nod. Then he chuckled. “I was talking with Beth Robinson a little while ago. She told me about what happened yesterday.” Benson looked at Adam.  “Heard you boys tried your hand at matchmaking?”

Adam pulled his hat down and lowered his head.

“Yes,” Ben said looking at Adam, trying to keep a straight face. “My sons seem to think I need a wife.”

“Well, I highly recommend getting married,” Benson said with a smile.

“I don’t have anything against marriage,” said Ben, smiling back at Benson. He looked at Adam again. “I would just like to pick my own wife,” he added meaningfully. Adam looked away.

Climbing down from the buckboard, Ben remarked, “You know, John, I think I have time to buy you a beer before that stage leaves.”.

“I’ll drink it,” Benson replied. The two started walking down the street while Adam stood awkwardly by the buckboard. Ben stopped and turned to his oldest son. “Coming, Adam?” he asked. Adam grinned and hurried to join the two men.

As the three men walked down the street, Roger Stevens watched them, his face deep in thought.
 

While their father was away, Adam, Hoss, and Joe worked hard to make sure every job on the ranch was completed. They wanted to be sure their father would have no reason for complaint when he returned home. Adam and Hoss were diligent in finishing their chores, but Joe worked particularly hard. He was breaking horses for sale to the Army, and he went about this job like a man possessed. Twice during the week, he came home so tired that he skipped dinner and went right to bed. Adam and Hoss were concerned that Joe might be over-doing things, but he reassured them that he had the situation under control. He simply wanted to be sure all the horses were ready for sale by the time his father returned home.

On the eighth evening after Ben had left, Adam, Hoss and Joe sat down to the table. Joe sat gingerly, his backside sore after being tossed by so many wild horses. Each filled their plate from the platter Hop Sing had set on the table.

“Got a telegram from Pa today,” Adam said as he began to eat. “He’s coming home tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow!”  exclaimed Joe as he sat up straight.

“Yep, that’s what the wire said,” Adam said. He looked at Joe curiously. “Why? Aren’t you happy to hear he’s coming home?”

“Sure I’m happy, “ said Joe. “It’s just that I’ve got six more horses to break to fill that Army contract. I’m not sure we can get them done by the time he gets home.”

“Aw, Joe, Pa won’t expect you have to all those horses broke by now,” said Hoss. “He’ll be happy you got as many done as you did.”

“I don’t know, Hoss,” Joe said doubtfully. “He was pretty mad when he left. He’s liable to get mad all over again if I don’t have those horses done.”

“Joe, it’s not like you haven’t been working hard,” said Adam reasonably. “Pa knows how long it takes to break that many horses. Besides, he’ll have cooled off by now.”

“I hope so,” said Joe fervently.
 

Waiting for the Carson City stage to arrive, Hoss dozed in the buckboard as he sat outside the stage depot. He had drawn the chore of picking up Ben, not that there was much choice in the matter. Joe had left the house early, determined to try to break those last six horses before his father returned home. Adam had explained over breakfast how he wanted to go over the books one more time, making sure he hadn’t forgotten to record anything while their Pa was in Carson City. So Hoss got the job of picking up Ben.

As he heard the stage rumbling down the street, Hoss sat up. He smiled as he saw the coach pull to a halt a few feet away, glad his father was finally home.

Climbing out of the buckboard, Hoss walked over to where the stage was parked. The depot manager had the door of the coach open already, and was helping people out. Hoss waited patiently, and soon the familiar white-haired head of Ben Cartwright emerged from the stage.

“Welcome home, Pa!” said Hoss in a hearty voice. “Did you have a good trip?”

Smiling at his son, Ben replied, “Hello, Hoss. Yes, you might say I had a very productive trip.” Ben turned to help someone out of the stage. Hoss could see the passenger was a woman in her thirties, with auburn hair. She was fashionably dressed, and when she looked up, Hoss could see she was a real beauty.

“Hoss, I’d like you to meet Nancy Miller,” said Ben, introducing the woman. “Nancy, this is my son, Hoss.”

“How do you do, Hoss,” the woman said with a smile. She extended her hand. “Your father has told me a lot about you.”

“Howdy,” said Hoss in amazement. He tipped his hat and took the woman’s small hand into his massive one. He shook her hand briefly, then looked at his father, a question on his face.

“I met Miss Miller in Carson City,” Ben explained with a smile. “In fact, we’ve spent most of the last week together.  When Nancy, that is, Miss Miller told me she was planning to visit friends in Virginia City, I suggested she might want to travel with me.” Ben smiled at the woman. “I hope she will be gracious enough to visit the Ponderosa while she’s here.”

“You know I will, Ben,” said Nancy with a smile. “You’ve told me so much about your wonderful sons and your beautiful ranch. I can’t wait to see them.”

“Perhaps you would like to come out for dinner tonight,” said Ben. “I mean, that is, if you’re not too tired from traveling.”

“I’d love to come to dinner tonight,” Nancy replied, her eyes shining. “But first, I’d better get settled in the hotel and cleaned up.”

“Ma’am, I’ll be happy to take your bags over to the hotel,” said Hoss.

“Why, thank you, Hoss,” said Nancy, smiling at him. Hoss found himself grinning back at the woman. “Those two bags there,” Nancy said, pointing to two medium size suitcases which the driver at set by the stage.

“Perhaps I’d better walk you to the hotel,” said Ben. “I know the manager quite well. I can make sure you get a suitable room.”

“Oh, Ben, you are such a treasure,” said Nancy, placing her had possessively on Ben’s arm. Ben smiled at the woman and the couple walked slowly down the street.

“Hot diggity,” said Hoss, pushing his hat back on his head. “Looks like Pa didn’t need our help after all.”
 

Joe rode into the yard of the Ponderosa at a fast clip. He knew he was late getting home, but he was pleased with himself. He had broken the last six horses needed to fill the Army contract. He just hoped his father would be happy with him.

Leading his horse into the barn, Joe sighed with fatigue. He was tired, dirty, and sore. Joe was looking forward to a quick meal and an early bed.

After taking care of his horse, Joe walked slowly across the yard to the house. He had noticed the buckboard was gone, and wondered if something had delayed his father’s return. Hoss was suppose to pick up their father with the buckboard earlier today.

Opening  the door of the house, Joe was surprised to see Hoss and Adam standing by the fireplace, both wearing white shirts and string ties. “You didn’t have to get all dressed up just for me,” Joe said with a grin as he walked into the house.

“There you are, little brother,” Hoss said with relief. “We were getting worried. Hurry up and get cleaned up. Pa is bringing somebody special to dinner.”

“Somebody special? Who?” asked Joe, curiously.

“Her name is Nancy Miller, and Pa met her in Carson City,” explained Adam.

“Yeah, and she’s real looker,” added Hoss.

Joe’s face broke into a grin. “Yeah?” he said.  “And what’s so special about her?”

“Well, let’s just say Pa thinks she’s special,” explained Adam.

“Oh boy!” Joe exclaimed, his grin widening. “I can’t wait to meet her.” He rushed past his brothers and hurried up the stairs to his room. Joe hurriedly washed and changed into clean clothes. He put on his new white shirt, the blue pants from his Sunday suit, and a dark blue string tie. He hummed as he spent time in front of the mirror, carefully combing his hair. Joe still felt fatigued by the hard day’s work, but the news his father’s new female interest had buoyed his spirits.

Joe came down the stairs just as Ben was opening the door. Ben stood aside and a lovely women walked slowly into the room. She was wearing an elegant gown, cut low in the front. Her hair was piled high on her head, held in place by a pin that sparkled in the light. Adam and Hoss stared for a moment, then smiled. Joe stared, then frowned slightly.

“Boys, I would like you to meet Miss Nancy Miller,” Ben said proudly. He turned to Nancy. “Nancy, these are my sons.” Ben’s second statement was made with equal pride.

As Nancy moved across the room, Ben hurried to her side. Adam stepped forward and Nancy held out her hand. “I’m Adam,” Adam said. He took her hand and bowed to briefly caress it with his lips. Nancy’s smile widened.  “Hello, Adam,” she said.

Hoss moved forward. “Howdy, Miz Nancy,” said Hoss with a grin.

“Hello, Hoss,” replied Nancy. “It’s nice to see you again.”

Ben indicated Joe with his hand. “And this is Joe,” he said.

Stepping forward, Joe said briefly,  “Hello.” Joe studied the woman’s face. He inclined his head slightly. “Haven’t we met somewhere before?” he asked.

Something flickered in Nancy’s eyes. “I don’t think so,” she said softly. “I would have remembered meeting such a handsome young man.”

Joe frowned slightly at the look on Nancy’s face and at her words. He felt uncomfortable with both. He tried to think where he might have seen her before. Joe shook his head slightly. He was tired and he couldn’t seem to get any clear images in his head.

Clearing his throat, Ben asked, “Nancy, may I offer you something to drink before dinner? Perhaps a glass of sherry?”

“Sherry would be lovely,” replied Nancy, turning a dazzling smile on Ben. She walked forward. Adam quickly took her hand and escorted her to the sofa. Ben smiled as he watched. He was pleased that Nancy and his sons seemed to be hitting it off. Ben turned toward his desk to get the sherry bottle and glasses. He failed to note the frown still fixed on Joe’s face.

Sipping sherry, Nancy chatted easily with Ben, Adam, and Hoss. She and Ben described how they had met at a party at the governor’s house. Nancy discussed books with Adam that both had read. She listened and encouraged Hoss as he talked about the ranch. All the while, Joe stood by silently. Ben glanced at his youngest son several times during the conversation. He couldn’t figure out why Joe wasn’t joining in.

Nancy and the Cartwrights had been sitting for about half an hour when Hop Sing walked into the room. He bowed slightly. “Dinner is ready,” the cook announced with a smile. Nancy smiled back and stood. Ben offered his arm, and she took it possessively. Ben escorted Nancy into the dining room while Adam followed. As Joe started forward, Hoss grabbed him by the shoulder. “What’s wrong with you, little brother,” he asked in a low voice.

Startled at Hoss’ question, Joe looked at the retreating figures of Ben and Nancy, then back to Hoss. “Nothing,” said Joe. “I’m just tired.” He pushed past Hoss and walked to the table.

The pleasant conversation continued over dinner. Slowly, Joe began to join in. He asked Nancy several questions about places and people he knew in Carson City, trying to figure out where he might have seen her before. Nancy replied briefly to Joe’s questions, then managed to change the subject each time.

As Hop Sing was serving slices of apple pie as dessert, Nancy complimented the cook on an excellent meal. Hop Sing had accepted the compliment with a huge smile and made sure the dinner guest received a large slice of pie.

“Oh, Hop Sing,” said Nancy in dismay. “I’m not sure I can eat all this.”

“You eat,” Hop Sing insisted. “Hop Sing make best apple pie in Nevada. Make sure you get biggest piece. Even bigger than piece Mr. Hoss will eat later.” Everyone at the table laughed as the cook left the room.

“Who are you visiting with in Virginia City?” Joe asked as everyone began to eat their pie. He was hoping that a mutual friend might help him place where he had met the woman before.

“Oh, just some old friends,” Nancy replied vaguely. She seemed to hesitate a moment before going on. “I also want to check on a business investment I’ve made with Roger Stevens.”

“Roger Stevens!” said Adam, his voice tinged with both anger and surprise. “You’re not friends with him, are you?”

Startled by Adam’s reaction, Nancy replied quickly, “No We’re merely acquaintances. I met him through some people I know in Carson City. I’ve invested in a timber project he has here in Virginia City.”

“Oh, Nancy, I’m afraid you  may have invested unwisely,” said Ben.

“Why do you say that?” asked Nancy.

“Because Stevens’ project depends on getting some land he wants from Pa,” answered Adam. “And we’re not about to sell it to him.”

A look of distress crossed Nancy’s face. “I can’t afford to lose the money I’ve invested,” she said in alarmed voice. “Mr. Stevens assured me that everything was in order.”

“That Stevens fellow, I’ve heard he‘s a smooth talker,” said Hoss. “I think he’s probably hornswaggled you, ma’am.”

“Oh, no,” said Nancy, her distress obviously growing. She turned to Ben. “Ben, couldn’t you sell him the land?” she asked.

“I’m afraid not,” answered Ben regretfully.

“But why not?” asked Nancy. “Are you using it for something else?”

“No,” replied Ben. “The land he wants is down by the lake, and that land is not to be touched.”

“That land can never be used,” added Joe, his voice tinged with anger.

Looking puzzled, Nancy said, “But I don’t understand. If the land isn’t being used and Mr. Stevens can make use of it, why not sell it to him? He could make a good profit from it and so could I.”  Nancy looked around the table. “What can be so important about that piece of land?” she asked. “Other than the timber, there can’t be anything important on it, can there?”

“Nothing except my mother’s grave,” said Joe in a cold voice. He stood abruptly and walked away from the table. Without a glance backward, he crossed the room and went up the stairs.

Everyone at the table sat in an embarrassed silence for a moment. Finally, Nancy spoke.  “I’m sorry, Ben,” she said softly. “I had no idea.”

“Of course you didn’t,” Ben said in a soothing voice.  He looked up toward the stairs. “Joe is very defensive about his mother,” Ben explained. “She died when he was very young. He really doesn’t remember her. Over the years, he’s built an image of her in
his mind, and he can be pretty fierce about protecting that image from any slights, both real and imagined.”

“Oh, Ben, I am sorry,” said Nancy with regret. “I didn’t mean to upset Joe.”

“I know you didn’t,” replied Ben with a smile. He wiped his mouth with his napkin. “Maybe I’d better talk to Joe,” he said, getting to his feet. “If you’ll excuse me.”

Walking slowly, Ben crossed the room and headed up the stairs. He wished he knew what to say to Joe. He wanted so much for his sons to like Nancy. He was afraid if he handled this wrong, he might destroy any future relationship between Nancy and his youngest son..

Knocking softly on the closed door to Joe’s bedroom, Ben asked, “May I come in?” He heard a muffled “Yes” through the door. Ben turned the door knob and pushed opened the door.

Joe was standing by the desk in his room. In his hand, he was holding a small portrait of his mother. He continued to stare at the picture as Ben walked in.

“Joe, Nancy didn’t mean anything by what she said,” Ben said. “She didn’t know what was on that land down by the lake.”

At first, Joe didn’t say anything. He continued to stare at the picture. Finally, he took a deep breath. “I guess you’re right,” Joe said to his father without turning around. “I guess I’m just tired or something. I shouldn’t flown off the handle like that.” Joe put the picture on his desk and turned around. “Pa, where did you meet Nancy?” he asked.

“At the governor’s party,” replied Ben in surprise. “You heard me say that.”

“I know,” Joe said. He shook his head. “I just can’t help thinking I’ve seen her someplace before.”

“Joe, Nancy is a very lovely woman,” he replied. “You probably just noticed her on the street somewhere.”  Ben smiled as his son. “You do have a habit of looking at pretty women,” he added.

“Yeah, I guess I do,” Joe replied, with a smile. His face turned serious. “Pa, are you in love with her?” asked Joe.

Startled, Ben answered slowly. “I don’t know. Would it upset you if I was?”

Joe chewed his lip for a minute. Adam’s words about not interfering in his father’s love life flashed through Joe’s head. But at the same time, he just didn’t feel right about his father and Nancy. He couldn’t explain why, but he had the feeling something wasn’t quite right. “I don’t know either,” Joe finally admitted.

Patting Joe on the shoulder, Ben asked, “Why don’t you come back downstairs? I’m sure Nancy would be happy if you joined us again.”

Joe hesitated. He felt uncomfortable about seeing Nancy again…for a lot of reasons. Shaking his head, Joe said, “No, Pa, I really am tired. I think I’ll just stay up here and get some sleep.”

Ben looked at his son for a moment. “All right,” he said in a disappointed voice. “I’ll make your excuses.”

“Thanks,” Joe said gratefully. As Ben turned to leave the room, Joe called after him, “Pa?” Ben stopped and turned back. “I’m glad you had a good trip to Carson City,” Joe said with a sly grin.

Grinning back at his son, Ben cuffed Joe on the back of the neck. “You get some sleep, you young rascal,” he said with affection.

As Ben left the room, Joe’s smile faded. He laid down on the bed and stared up at the ceiling. His thoughts were far from sleep.
 

Sunlight was streaming through the window as Joe woke with a start. He was sprawled on the bed, still fully dressed. He hadn’t thought he would have been able to sleep much; his mind had been full of thoughts about Nancy, his father, and where he might have seen her before. But sometime during the night, he must have drifted off.

Rising quickly, Joe changed clothes, discarding his fancy shirt and pants for more suitable work clothes. He splashed some water in his face, and ran a comb through his hair. Then he rushed out of his room and down the stairs.

Ben, Adam and Hoss were just finishing breakfast as Joe slid into his chair. “Sorry I’m late,” Joe apologized as he reached for the coffee. “I must have been more tired than I thought.”

“That’s all right,” Ben said in a gentle voice. “Hoss and Adam have been telling me how hard you’ve been working. You deserved to sleep in a little.”

Joe grinned. Normally, his father would have been mad at him at being so late. If this was the effect Nancy was having on him, maybe Joe should encourage the relationship.

“I’ve finished breaking all those horses for the Army contract,” said Joe as he sipped his coffee. “They’re a real good string.”

“That’s fine, son,” Ben said in an approving voice. “I know that was a big job. I’m proud of you.”

“Pa was just telling us about his trip to Carson City,” Adam said. He looked at his father and grinned. “Well, the business parts, at any rate,” added Adam. Ben flushed and suddenly found his plate of food very interesting.

“Did you check on the deed for the land by the lake?” asked Joe.

“Yes,” Ben replied with a nod. “Our claim is solid. There’s no way Stevens can raise any objections to it.”

Sipping his coffee, Joe looked around the table. “I’m sorry about last night,” he said slowly as he put down his cup. “I guess I was tired or something. I didn’t mean what I said to come out that way.”

“It’s all right,” said Ben in a soothing voice. “I explained things to Nancy. She understood.”

“Are you going to be spending the day with her?” Joe asked, a smile playing on his lips.

“Um, no,” replied Ben. “She’s going to do some visiting and I want to check on things around here. We, er, we’re going to see each other tomorrow.”

Looking at Adam, Hoss winked. “Guess we won’t be seeing much of Pa for awhile,” said Hoss with a grin. Ben flushed again.

Sipping his coffee thoughtfully, Joe asked, “Pa, do you mind if I ride into Virginia City? I’d like to apologize to Nancy for last night.”

“No, I don’t mind,” said Ben. “You’ve been working hard, and deserve a day off. Besides, I think apologizing to Nancy would be a good idea.”

“Looks like none of us are going to get any work done while she’s around,” grumbled Adam good-naturedly.
 

At mid-morning, Joe rode into Virginia City. He didn’t want to call on Nancy too early but he did want to visit her before she left the hotel for the day. Joe had no way of knowing Nancy Miller already had a visitor.

As Joe was entering the town, Nancy was answering the knock of her door cautiously. She pulled the door open a crack and looked into the hall. Roger Stevens stood in front of the door, smiling.

“What are you doing?” hissed Nancy. She opened the door wide and pulled Stevens into the room. “What if someone had seen you?” she said angrily as she shut the door.

“I was careful that no one saw me,” replied Stevens easily. “Besides, what difference does it make?”

“It makes a difference to my reputation,” replied Nancy, still angry. “A proper woman doesn’t invite a strange man into her room.”

“A proper woman, eh?” said Stevens with a smile. Then his face turned serious. “What happened at dinner last night? Is Cartwright going to sell me the land?”

“No,” replied Nancy with a shake of her head. “You might as well forget it. Ben Cartwright will never sell that land. His wife is buried on it.”

Stevens cursed under his breath. He stood silent for a moment, then shrugged. “Well, we gave it a shot,” he said philosophically. “We might as well pack up and move on.”

“You can pack up if you want,” said Nancy with a tight smile. “I’m staying.”

“What!” exclaimed Stevens in astonishment. “Why on earth would you want to stay here.”

“Because Ben Cartwright is falling in love with me,” said Nancy smugly. “If I play my cards right, I might get him to marry me.”

“Marry you!” said Stevens in alarm. “But what about us?”

“What about us?” said Nancy evenly.

“I thought you and me….well, I thought we had an understanding,” stammered Stevens.

“Roger, dear, I do love you,” replied Nancy. “But this is a chance I can’t pass up. Ben Cartwright is rich, very rich. Life on the Ponderosa could be pleasant.  At least for awhile.”

“For awhile?” asked Stevens, arching his eyebrow.

“Ben Cartwright is a busy man,” said Nancy with a grin. “He has a ranch to run, business deals to oversee. I doubt if he’ll have time to travel with his wife. After a bit, he’ll get used to me being away.”

“I don’t know if Cartwright would like the idea of his wife traveling alone,” said Stevens.

“He’ll do it to make me happy,” said Nancy confidently.  She looked at Stevens. “Just think what it could be like. You and I meeting in New York, or Europe. Living in the best hotels, eating at the finest restaurants. And all of it paid for by Ben Cartwright.”

“Cartwright doesn’t strike me as the type of man who would stand being cuckolded,” said Stevens wryly.

“Perhaps,” agreed Nancy. “But he’s also the type of man who would avoid a scandal. I’m sure we can work out a very lucrative divorce settlement, if it comes to that.”

“But you can’t just marry the man and then start traveling,” protested Stevens..

“No, of course not,” said Nancy. “I figure about six months after the wedding sounds about right.”

“Six months on that rustic ranch?” Stevens said. “How will you ever stand it?”

“It’s not as bad as you think,” said Nancy. “Hop Sing does all the cooking and cleaning, so I wouldn’t have to lift a finger. And four handsome men to look after me! Ben is very loving and attentive. Adam is so intelligent, and well read. I’m sure he and I will have some interesting conversations. Hoss is so sweet. I’m sure all I’d have to do is crook my finger and he’d do anything for me.”

“And what about Joe?” asked Stevens.

“Joe,” Nancy said, her face softening. “Such an handsome boy,” she murmured. Then her face hardened. “Joe could be a problem. He’s sure he’s seen me someplace before.”

“Has he?” asked Stevens.

“I have no idea,” replied Nancy. “It’s possible.”

Stevens thought for a moment. “What are you going to do?” he asked.

“For now, nothing,” said Nancy. “I’ll try to charm him. That won’t be an onerous chore.”

“And if that doesn’t work?” asked Stevens..

“If that doesn’t work, then I may have to call on your particular talents,” said Nancy. She looked at Stevens. “Would you help me if I asked?”

Grinning, Stevens replied, “Only if you promise me a lobster dinner in New York in six months.” Nancy smiled at him in return. She walked forward. Her arms went around Stevens’ shoulders and she kissed him on the lips.
 

Arriving at the hotel, Joe stopped at the desk in the lobby to ask about Nancy. After the clerk told Joe the room number and assured him she was in his room,  Joe climbed the steps to where the rooms were located. As he was coming around the corner at the top of the stairs, Joe heard a door open. He slowed and saw Roger Stevens coming out of the second door, the door Joe knew led to Nancy Miller’s room. Stepping back, Joe stood at the corner where the hall and the top of the stairs met.

As Joe watched, Stevens walked the room. Joe saw Nancy came to the door. “Don’t forget your promise,” Nancy said to Stevens, putting her hand on his arm.

“I won’t,” replied Stevens, smiling. He bowed slightly and turned to walk down the hall in the opposite direction from Joe, toward the back stairs. Nancy stood watching for a moment, then re-entered her room. Joe turned and walked back down the stairs. 

As Joe rode into the yard outside the ranch house, his face was still thoughtful. He had been trying to decide all the way from town what to tell his father about what he had seen. Hoss and Adam were in the yard as Joe rode up.

“Hey, Joe, what’s wrong with you?” asked Hoss as he looked at Joe’s face. “You look like you’ve been kicked a mule?”

“Aw, he always looks that way, Hoss,” kidded Adam.

When Joe didn’t respond with an answering jibe, Hoss and Adam looked at each other. They walked to the hitching post where Joe was tying up his horse.

“Joe, is there something wrong?” asked Adam.

“I don’t know, Adam,” Joe admitted.

“Did you see Miz Nancy in town?” asked Hoss.

“Yeah, I saw her,” replied Joe bitterly. When Adam and Hoss looked at him with a frown, Joe explained, “I went to the hotel and got there just as Roger Stevens was leaving her room.”

Hoss and Adam looked at each other again. “What did Nancy say when you asked her about it?” asked Adam.

“I didn’t,” replied Joe shortly. “I just turned and walked away.”

“Well, then, how do you know something was going on?” asked Adam patiently.

“I don’t,” admitted Joe. “But I’ve had this bad feeling about her. And now with this….”

“With what?” snorted Adam. “You saw Roger Stevens leaving her room. Did he kiss or anything?”

“No,” replied Joe. “He just walked out and walked away. But why would he be in her room?”

“You heard her say at dinner last night she had some business with him,” said Hoss. “Maybe they were just discussing that.”

“In her room?” Joe said ironically.

“Stevens doesn’t have an office as far as I know,” said Adam. “Maybe she just felt it was better for him to come to her than for her to go to his room.”

“They could have met some place more public,” said Joe. “Like a restaurant or something.”

“All right, maybe she showed poor judgment,” Adam said. “But that’s still no reason to suspect something is going on.”

“Adam, you didn’t see them,” Joe struggled to explain. “It’s nothing I can explain. Just a feeling that I had that their meeting wasn’t exactly business.”

“Little brother, you’ve had a burr under your saddle about Miz Nancy since you met her,” said Hoss with a frown. “I think you’re making too much out of this.”

“I think I should tell Pa about it,” Joe insisted.

“Sure, go ahead and tell him,” said Adam. “He’ll want to know why you didn’t apologize to Nancy. Just don’t go painting him a picture that doesn’t exist.”

Joe frowned. “What do you mean?” he asked.

“I mean, just tell Pa you didn’t apologize to Nancy because she was meeting with Stevens,” said Adam. “You don’t have to elaborate beyond that.”

“Why not?” said Joe.

“Because you don’t have any evidence that there was something beyond that!” Adam said heatedly.

“Adam, don’t you think I should tell him that the woman he is courting might not be all she’s cracked up to be?” said Joe, his voice also rising.

“No, I don’t!” said Adam angrily.

“Calm down, both of you,” said Hoss. “This ain’t any of our business.”

Adam looked startled for a moment, then slowly nodded his head. “Hoss is right,” said Adam. “After that little stunt you two pulled, Pa made it pretty clear he wants us to stay out of his love life.” Adam looked at Joe. “I know you don’t like Nancy, but you barely know her. Why don’t you give her a chance? You might find out you were wrong about her.”

Shaking his head, Joe started to disagree. But he changed his mind as he saw the look of determination on his brother’s face. “All right, Adam, “ said Joe with a sigh. “I’ll do what you suggest. But I still have a feeling that there’s something not right here.”
 

After spending almost all of the next week with Nancy, anyone could see Ben was blissfully happy. Joe had told Ben about Nancy’s meeting with Stevens, but he had only told him the bare facts, as Adam suggested. Ben asked Nancy about it, and her explanation was that it was a business meeting. Ben accepted the explanation without question.

Joe did his best to try to like Nancy, but he just couldn’t do it. Whenever he was around her, Nancy seemed to pay special attention to Joe. Joe had enough experience to know when a woman was trying to charm him. Normally, he wouldn’t have minded it; in fact, he usually enjoyed it. But it made Joe uncomfortable when the woman was someone his father was courting. There was also something about Nancy, something he couldn’t quite put his finger on. But Joe was convinced she was not who or what she pretended to be.

The eighth day of Nancy Miller’s visit to Virginia City was a perfect day – warm, but not hot, with a clear blue Nevada sky hanging over the land. Joe was chopping wood in the yard, and Adam was sitting on the porch trying to fix a broken rein. Hoss led the buggy from the barn to the front of the house.

“Pa going out again?” Joe asked, taking a break and walking over toward his brothers.

“Yeah,” said Hoss with a grin. “This buggy is sure getting a work-out.”

Adam noticed Joe’s frown. “Joe, I know you don’t like Nancy much,” he said, “but I hope you’ll have the good sense to keep your mouth shut about her.”

“I haven’t said anything, have I,” replied Joe angrily.

“No, and I think you should keep it that way,” instructed Adam.

Before Joe could say another word, Ben walked out of the house. He was dressed in a white shirt with a string tie, and carrying a picnic basket. He smiled when he saw the buggy. “Thank you, Hoss,” said Ben, with an approving nod.

Looking around, Ben said, apologetically,  “I may be gone most of the day. I’m sorry to leave you boys with so much of the work.”

“Don’t worry about it, Pa,” answered Adam with a grin. “We’ll let you know if something comes up that we can’t handle.”

Ben nodded. He seemed to want to say something else but didn’t know how to bring it up. “I hope you boys don’t mind Nancy being around so much,” Ben said in a hesitant voice.

“Mind?” said Adam with a grin. “We’re delighted.”

“Yeah, Pa,” added Hoss. “She’s real special.”

Joe said nothing. Ben didn’t seem to notice.

“I’m glad you think she’s special,” said Ben. He shifted his feet uncomfortably. “I think that too,” he added. “I’m hoping maybe, well, someday she might be around a lot more.  You boys wouldn’t mind that, would you?”

Turning, Adam fixed a hard look on Joe. “No, Pa,” said Adam as he continued to look at Joe. “We wouldn’t mind it at all.”

Nodding, Ben grinned. “That’s good,” he said with relief as he climbed into the buggy.  “Don’t wait up for me,” said Ben as he drove off.

“Don’t wait up?” Hoss said with a frown. “Adam, you don’t think…”

“Hoss, what Pa does is none of our business,” said Adam firmly.

“Yeah, I know but, Adam, Pa’s not a young man any more,” said Hoss with concern. “I mean, he could hurt himself or something.”

“The only one who’s going to get hurt is you if you say that to Pa,” said Adam with a snort. “Now let’s get back to work.”  Adam returned to working on the reins, and Hoss walked back to the barn. Joe stood watching the buggy drive off. Then he turned back to the wood pile. He began chopping wood again, but it seem as if the ax descended with more forced than needed to split the wood.
 

The sun was just rising as the four Cartwrights were sitting around the breakfast table. Breakfast was just about the only meal Ben ate with his sons these days. Adam and Hoss had continued to assure Ben that everything on the ranch was under control, and that he could take off whatever time he need. Joe tended to say nothing during the discussions. He did his work and kept quiet, all the time wondering if he was doing the right thing.

Clearing his throat nervously, Ben said, “Um, boys, I thought we might have a little party Saturday night. Give Nancy a chance to meet some of our friends and neighbors.”

Hoss and Adam looked at each other and grinned. “I think that’s a good idea,” Hoss said, trying to keep a straight face. “I mean, Miz Nancy hasn’t had much time to do any visiting since she’s been here.”

Shifting uncomfortably in his chair, Ben’s face grew flush. “Well, yes, I guess I have been keeping her pretty busy,” he said. “Anyway, I thought we might try to make this a special occasion. So I’d appreciate your helping Hop Sing anyway you can.”

“How long is she planning to stay in Virginia City?” asked Joe abruptly.

Ben frowned. “I don’t know,” he admitted. “Why?”

Shrugging, Joe said, “No reason. Just curious.” He went back to eating his breakfast.

Looking thoughtful, Ben said slowly, “You know, Joe, you’re right. Nancy must be planning to leave soon. That is, unless she’s given a reason to stay longer.”

Startled, Joe looked up. Adam and Hoss looked at each other and winked.

“Saturday night, with all our friends around, might be a good time to make any kind of  announcement,” speculated Adam with a twinkle in his eye. Joe frowned at his brother’s comment.

“Yes, yes, it might,” Ben said in a distracted tone of voice. “Well, I’ve got to get to town.  You boys have anything you need to talk with me about?”

“Not a thing, Pa,” Adam said, waving his hand. “Go and have a good time.”

Getting to his feet, Ben nodded. He walked out of the room, whistling softly.

“Hot diggity!” exclaimed Hoss as soon as Ben was gone. “Pa’s going to get married again!”

“I think there’s a pretty good chance,” agreed Adam with a smile.

“Great,” said Joe sourly. “Just great.”

Adam looked at Joe with a frown. “Look, Joe, I know you don’t like the idea of Pa getting married again…..,” he said.

“That’s not true,” protested Joe. “I think it would be great if he got married. I just don’t think Nancy Miller is the right woman for him.”

“Are you sure?” said Adam.

“Sure I want him to get married again,” Joe said firmly. He grinned. “Did I go to all the trouble to try to find him a wife?”

“I wouldn’t bring that up again if I were you, Joe,” cautioned Hoss.

“Joe, are you sure you don’t resent him getting married?” said Adam. “I mean, the woman you, um, picked out, Beth Robinson. She was safe. If Pa had started courting her, it might take a long time for them to get married.”

Joe frowned. “Adam, what are you talking about?” he asked.

“I’m talking about you growing up with just us, and Pa, and Hop Sing,” explained Adam.  “I’m talking about you maybe resenting having a woman in the house. Hoss and I know what it’s like. You don’t.”

“Adam, that’s the stupidest thing I ever heard,” said Joe angrily.

“Is it?” asked Adam.

“Yes, it is,” Joe said. “I don’t mind Pa getting married. I just don’t think Nancy Miller is the right woman for him.”

“Well, it ain’t exactly your decision, little brother,” said Hoss.

“That’s right,” said Adam. “It’s up to Pa who he marries. I happen to think Nancy is a very charming and intelligent woman.”

“She’s real nice, Joe,” added Hoss.

“Well, she sure has you two convinced,” Joe said wryly.

Adam sighed. “I can see we’re not going to change your mind,” he said. He fixed a stern look on his youngest brother. “Joe, you listen to me,” he said. “You keep whatever you think about Nancy to yourself, do you understand. I won’t have you messing this up for Pa. You do, and you’ll have me to deal with.”

“And me,” said Hoss.

With a grim expression on his face, Joe looked back and forth between his two brothers. “All right,” he agreed. “I won’t say anything. I just hope you two are around to pick up the pieces when she’s finished with Pa.”
 

The preparations for the party moved ahead rapidly. Adam and Hoss made the rounds, inviting all their friends and neighbors. The smile and wink they gave with the invitation left no doubt in anyone’s mind that the party was going to be an engagement party.

Hop Sing cleaned and dusted until the ranch house was spotless. Anyone tracking even the smallest speck of dust into the house was immediately berated and made to clean up the floor. Even Ben was ordered to wipe his feet carefully by the cook. Ben grumbled about being ordered around in his own house, but the look on his face showed he really didn’t mind.

By Saturday morning, Hop Sing had turned into a tyrant. He was up before dawn, starting to cook and bake. He ordered Hoss out to the meadow to look for fresh flowers, and insisted Adam start moving furniture to clear a dance floor. He even told Ben to order the hands to clean up the yard in front of the house. The only one he didn’t give orders to was Joe. Joe had managed to make himself scarce.

Hiding out in the barn, Joe was grooming his horse. Joe had no enthusiasm for the party and had no wish to help with making it a success. He had kept his promise about not saying anything to Ben about his feelings about Nancy, but Joe still didn’t like the idea of her joining the family.

As Joe was combing his pinto, Adam and Hoss walked into the barn. “There you are, little brother,” said Hoss in exasperation. “We’ve been looking all over for you. Hop Sing has a list of chores a mile long for you to do.”

Saying nothing, Joe kept grooming his horse.

“Joe, you’re not going to do anything to spoil this party, are you?” asked Adam.

Looking up, Joe said shortly, “No, I won’t spoil the party.” He took a few more swipes with the curry brush, then looked up again. “But I am going to have a talk with Pa,” he said. “I have to let him know how I feel.”

“Joe, what do you have against Miz Nancy?” asked Hoss.

“I told you, Hoss,” said Joe. “I saw her that day with Stevens. I don’t think she’s in  love with Pa.”

“Because of a brief meeting at the hotel?” said Adam in astonishment. “Joe, that’s crazy!”

“You didn’t see them,” insisted Joe. “And it’s not just that. I can tell when a woman is in love. Nancy isn’t.”

“Oh, you’ve had so much experience,” said Adam wryly.

“Around women, yes,” said Joe. He smiled slyly. “Maybe more than you two.”

Adam shook his head. “Joe, you’re acting like a spoiled child,” he said. “You’re not getting your own way, so you’re pouting.”

Pursing his lips, Joe threw down the brush and turned to pull a blanket and saddle off the wall of the stall. He quickly began saddling his horse.

“Now just where do you think you’re going?” asked Adam.

“I’ve got some things to do,” Joe said shortly.

“But, Joe, what about the party?” asked Hoss with alarm.

“I don’t think I’d be much help getting things ready for tonight,” said Joe as he slipped his bridle on his pinto. He glared at Adam. “I might just say or do the wrong thing.”

“But you’ll be back in time for the party, won’t you?” Hoss said in a worried voice.

“Yeah, I’ll be back,” Joe said as he backed his horse out of the stall. “Tell Pa, I promise I’ll be home for the party.”
 

Joe really didn’t have any place to go or anything to do; he just felt a need to get away from the ranch for awhile. He rode to Virginia City because he couldn’t think of any place else to go. Joe stopped his horse in front of the Silver Dollar saloon. It was only about noon, but Joe felt the need of a beer.

Joe pushed open the doors of the saloon. This early in the day, the Silver Dollar was almost empty. Three men sat at a corner table playing cards. Joe didn’t know any of them, and decided not to join the game. He strolled over to a table a few feet from the bar and sat down.

“Hello, Joe,” said a blonde girl in a low cut dress with a short skirt as she approached the table. “Buy me a beer?”

Looking up, Joe smiled at the girl. “Hello, Lily,” Joe greeted the girl. “Sure.”

“Two cold beers, Bruno,” Lily called to the bartender. She walked over to the bar,  picked up two filled beer mugs and brought them back to the table.

“I’m surprised to see you in town,” said Lily as she sat down at the table with Joe. “I hear there’s some big doings up at your place tonight.”

“You hear everything, don’t you, Lily?” Joe said with a smile as he sipped his beer.

“I don’t miss much,” admitted Lily. She took a sip of your beer. “Is it true your Pa is going to marry that lady?”

“I think so,” said Joe with a frown.

“Hmm,” Lily said noncommittally as she took another drink.

Joe looked at her. “Why the hmmm?” he asked.

“Oh nothing,” said Lily. “I’ve seen the lady around town. She looks real nice. In fact, I thought at first maybe I knew her, but that couldn’t be.”

Joe sat up. “Knew her?” he asked. “Where from?”

“I thought she was somebody who used to work at a place called The Golden Palace in Sacramento,” said Lily. “They called it a supper club, but it was really just a fancy saloon.” Lily sipped her beer. “I was working at a dive called the Trail’s End, but I used to see this lady around Sacramento. They called her the Duchess. She talked real good, and read a lot of books and stuff. She was suppose to keep the rich old guys who went to the Palace entertained while they were there.”

“Are you sure it isn’t her?” Joe asked, thinking hard. He had been to the Golden Palace once or twice. He was trying to remember if he had seen Nancy Miller there.

“Well, it couldn’t be, could it?” said Lily. “I mean, your Pa wouldn’t be marrying somebody like that. A fancy saloon girl? I hardly think so.”

Joe said nothing. He sat sipping his beer, trying to think back. He tried to picture the Golden Palace. Suddenly, the imagine of Nancy flashed into his mind. She was wearing a low cut dress, and her hair was piled on her head, held in place by a sparkling pin. Just like the first time Joe had seen her at the Ponderosa. Only this time, in Joe’s mind, he saw her sitting at a table with three well-dressed men. She was drinking wine and running her hand casually down the arm of one of the men. Joe remembered looking at her and admiring her when he was at the Palace. But he had not spoken with Nancy Miller when he was there. At least, he thought it was Nancy Miller.

Taking a deep drink from his beer, Joe threw some money down on the table. “Thanks, Lily,” he said gratefully, as he stood.

“For what?” she asked puzzled. But Joe didn’t answer. He was already walking out the door of the saloon. Lily shrugged and continued to sip her beer.

Standing outside the saloon for a moment, Joe tried to decide what to do next. Suddenly, he saw a carriage leaving from in front of the hotel down the street. Nancy Miller was driving the carriage.

Walking quickly to his horse, Joe untied the animal from the hitching post. He vaulted on the animal’s back and kicked the pinto lightly in the side as he turned the horse’s head. The horse began to lope down the street.

Joe followed the carriage from a distance, curious to see where Nancy was heading. He knew she wasn’t due at the Ponderosa until evening, but that’s the direction in which she was heading. But Nancy didn’t follow the road all the way to the house. She turned off the main road and drove the carriage down a smaller trail toward the lake. Joe followed her, keeping well back from the carriage.

When Joe saw Nancy pull the carriage to a stop a few yards from the lake, he halted his horse also. Nancy climbed out of the carriage and seemed to be looking for someone. Joe guided his horse to some trees and dismounted. He tied the reins of the horse to a branch, then walked through the brush, trying to get closer to Nancy but still keeping out of sight.

Pacing back and forth next to the carriage, Nancy seemed to be waiting impatiently. Joe also stood and waited, concealed in the trees.  When he heard another horse approaching, Joe pulled back farther into the shadows and watched.

Joe recognized the rider coming up the trail as Roger Stevens. Stevens stopped his horse a few feet from the carriage and dismounted. As Joe watched from the shadows, Nancy walked forward and threw her arms around Stevens. He kissed her -- a long, passionate kiss.

“Ah, Duchess,” sighed Stevens. “I’m going to miss this.”

“It’s only for six months or so,” Nancy reminded him. “Once I’m married to Ben Cartwright, I’ll have all the money I need. Convincing him to let me travel to New York while he’s running the ranch back here shouldn’t be too difficult.”

“Cartwright’s a crafty old bird,” said Stevens. “I hope you know what you’re doing.”

“Like I said, if it doesn’t work, I’ll get him to pay me off,” said Nancy, shrugging. “I’m sure he’d much rather give me enough money to go away quietly than to be publicly  humiliated as a man who couldn’t keep his wife happy.”

“You’ve come a long way from the Golden Palace,” commented Stevens.

“That’s where I learned about cheating spouses and quiet divorces,” said Nancy with a smile. “It was quite an education. Now kiss me one last time.”

As he watched and listened, Joe’s stomach churned with disgust. He could feel the anger building in him also. He told himself to stay still, to think. He needed to make sure his next move was the right one. Joe considered pulling his gun, forcing the pair in front of him to confess to his father at gun point. But the picture of Ben listening to Nancy confessing while Joe held a gun on her didn’t seem right. Nancy could always say she lied because she was afraid for her life. Besides, the one thing Joe could count on was that his father trusted him. Joe would tell his father the truth about his intended. Joe was confident that Ben would believe him.

Turning, Joe started to slip away in the shadows. He wanted to get back to the ranch as quickly as possible.

Joe never knew what alerted the two lovers to his presence. Maybe in his anger and haste, he was careless and made a noise. Maybe they saw the movement in the shadows. Whatever it was, Joe was only about halfway back to his horse when he heard Nancy scream, “There he is. Shoot him!”

Joe tried to turn, to pull his own gun, but he was too late. He felt something slam into his back. The impact pitched him forward onto the ground. For an instant, he didn’t feel anything. Then a searing pain tore through him, a pain so strong it took his breath away. Joe tried to push himself up, but it was a feeble attempt. He collapsed back to the ground. Joe thought he heard the sound of approaching footsteps. He struggled again to get up, but each movement caused another searing pain to radiate through him. Joe’s last conscious thought was he had to find some way to tell his father the truth about Nancy. Then a black cloud seem to descend around him, and Joe had no more thoughts.
 

The party at the Ponderosa seemed to a be roaring success. The guests danced happily and they ate and drank with gusto. Ben introduced Nancy to his closet friends – Dr. Paul Martin, Sheriff Roy Coffee, and others whom he had known for years. When he introduced Nancy to Beth Robinson, Beth had winked and smiled approvingly at Ben.

The men told Ben that they thought Nancy was beautiful, and the women told him she was charming. Almost all hinted that they were looking forward to some sort of announcement later. Ben responded to their comments with a distracted air. He frequently glanced at the clock, and found himself staring at the front door each time it opened. Ben was disappointed that Joe had chosen not to come home in time for the party. He kept hoping his youngest son would change his mind.

Trying to distract Ben, Nancy pulled him on to the makeshift dance floor in front of the fireplace, and they waltzed to the slow music of a mournful violin. Nancy insisted he try some of Hop Sing’s wonderful cooking and Ben did his best to eat something. He talked and chatted with his guests. He did everything except enjoy himself.

Standing near the front door, Hoss watched the dancing. Adam walked over to his brother. “Any sign of Joe?” Adam asked in a low voice.

“No,” replied Hoss, shaking his head. “Dagnabit, Adam, he promised he’d be here. When our little brother gets home, I’m going to skin him alive.”

“Not if I get my hands on him first,” said Adam grimly.

As Nancy walked over to where Ben was standing near the punch bowl, her color was high and her face flushed with excitement. She felt a surge of triumph. On the way from Virginia City to the ranch for the party, Ben had pulled the carriage to a halt near a field filled with wildflowers. Under the glorious blue sky, with the scent of flowers drifting in, Ben had proposed to Nancy. And she had accepted.

The couple had decided not to tell anyone about the engagement until Ben could tell his sons. They had told Adam and Hoss as soon as they arrived at the ranch house. Hoss had whooped with joy, while Adam had shook hands with both of them, offering heartfelt congratulations. Ben and Nancy had waited for Joe to arrive so they could tell him the news. But the guests had started to arrive, and the music had begun and still there was no sign of Joe. Ben waited at first patiently, and then impatiently for his youngest son.  Now the evening was growing late, and Joe still had not shown up.

“Ben, dear,” said Nancy in a low voice. “I know you wanted to tell Joe before making the announcement. But it looks like he’s not coming. It’s getting late. Our guests will be leaving soon. If you’re going to make the announcement, you should do it soon.”

Ben nodded. “I know,” he said. “I wanted to tell my sons -- all my sons -- before I made the announcement. But it doesn’t look like that will be possible.” Ben sighed.

“Ben, it will work out with Joe,” Nancy promised. “Joe won’t object to our marriage.”

“I wish I could be so sure,” Ben said sadly.

A strange look appeared on Nancy’s face. “I can promise you Joe won’t object to our marriage,” she said. Ben smiled, and walked slowly to the middle of the room.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Ben announced at the top of his voice. “Please everyone get a glass and then gather around the fireplace. I have announcement, and I would like you all to join me in a toast.”

A buzz went through the crowd. Several people rushed to the punch bowl to fill their glasses. One man went to the front door and called to the people standing outside to come in. The guest began to assemble in front of the fireplace.

Outside in the dark, a pinto pony walked slowly toward the yard in front of the house. The rider was slumped over the neck of the horse, barely conscious. Joe wasn’t sure how long he had been unconscious down by the lake. Stevens and Nancy had left him there, either to die or assuming he was already dead. All Joe knew was that it was dark when he woke up. He had tried to get to his feet, but the pain in his back was excruciating. He finally had begun to crawl toward the horse that was still tied to a tree nearby. Crawling had been difficult because his left arm was useless. Every time he tried to move his left arm, a stab of pain shot through his back. Joe was so weak and in so much pain that it had taken him almost an hour to pull himself across the ground to his horse. It had been maybe twenty yards; it had seemed like twenty miles to Joe.

Once he had reached the horse, Joe had slowly and painfully pulled himself up until he could reach the reins and untie them from the tree. The act of mounting his horse, which normally Joe accomplished with a single leap, had felt like climbing a mountain. Somehow he had managed to get onto the horse. Joe remembered giving his horse a light kick to get him started, and then had passed out.

Luckily, the pinto knew his way back to the barn. The horse had walked slowly, confused by the lack of direction from the rider on his back. The animal felt no kicks, nothing to urge him to hurry so the horse walked back toward its stall at a leisurely pace.

Joe had drifted in and out of consciousness as he sat on the horse. He could feel the pain in his back. Blood oozed down his left shoulder and arm which was dangling uselessly. Joe felt hot and thirsty, and knew he was probably feverish. But he didn’t have the strength to do anything but hold on to the saddle horn with his right hand and hope he could stay on the horse.

Now the pinto carried the helpless man into the yard in front of the house. Wagons and horses were tied throughout the yard, but no one was around. Everyone was in the house, awaiting the announcement and toast.

The pinto stopped in the middle of the yard, confused as to what to do. The unfamiliar horses and carriages blocked the animal from its stall. So the horse simply stopped and waited.

Lifting his head, Joe was amazed to see the house in front of him. He was sure he would have fallen off the horse before he reached home. Now he slid down the saddle, falling to the ground with a thud. He groaned in pain as he hit the ground, and laid in the dirt, unmoving, for several minutes. Finally, Joe slowly and painfully pulled himself to his feet, and started staggering across the yard.

Inside the brightly lit house, Ben Cartwright and Nancy Miller were standing in front of the fireplace. Ben was formally introducing Nancy again to his neighbors, and she smiled graciously at the round of applause that greeted the introduction.

“And now, I want to share something else with you…” Ben began. He stopped as he heard the front door open. Ben looked toward the door, and his face reflected both horror and surprise. Hoss and Adam, who were standing at the back of the crowd, turned to look also.

Somehow, Joe had managed to stagger across the yard, then push open the front door. Now, he leaned against the door frame, his left arm and shoulder covered with blood. His face was beaded with sweat from both exertion and fever, and his eyes had a glazed, unfocused look. Joe lift his right hand slightly. “Pa, help,” he managed to say before he collapsed to the floor.

As Adam and Hoss rushed to their brother’s side, Ben dropped the glass in his hand, not even noticing that it smashed against the floor. He ran across the room, pushing people aside. Dr. Paul Martin followed after him. Everyone else in the room seemed frozen in shock. Nancy Miller’s face reflected shock and horror more deeply than anyone’s.

Kneeling on the floor, Adam cradled his brother’s head in his hands, as Hoss pulled open the torn and bloody cloth that covered Joe’s back. As Ben knelt next to his youngest son, Hoss looked up. “He’s been shot in the back, Pa,” Hoss said grimly. “And it’s bad, real bad.”

“I’ll get my bag from the buggy,” said Dr. Martin, and he rushed out the door.

As Ben stroked his son’s cheek lightly with his hand, Joe’s eyes fluttered opened. He blinked, as if trying to focus. “Pa,” said Joe in a barely audible voice.

“Easy, Joe, take it easy,” said Ben in a soothing voice. “Joe, who did this? Who shot you?”

Joe didn’t seem to hear his father’s question. He stared up at Ben. “Pa,” Joe said in a whisper. “I made it home.” Joe coughed and winced at the pain. He looked up at Ben again. “I made it home like I promised,” said Joe. Then his body went limp.
 

Sitting on the sofa, Adam and Hoss stared at the top of the staircase. It had been almost two hours since they had carried Joe to his room, followed by Ben and the doctor.  Dr. Martin had ordered them out of the room as soon as they had gently place Joe on his bed. Adam and Hoss watched Hop Sing making regular trips to the room with hot water and fresh bandages, but the cook had nothing to report on Joe’s condition.

More to give them something to do than anything else, Hoss and Adam had cleaned up the remnants of the hastily ended party. The guests had left almost immediately. They had all lived in the West long enough to know there was little they could do but get in the way. Most had simply left. A few had expressed their sympathy to Nancy and asked her to tell Ben. Nancy had simply nodded, her face pale with shock and worry.

One man who had stayed was Sheriff Roy Coffee. He had helped Hoss and Adam re-arrange the furniture, and carried plates and glasses to the kitchen. Roy wanted to talk to Joe, but he knew he would have to wait, just like Joe’s brothers.

Now the group sat in the living room, Adam and Hoss on the sofa while Nancy sat in the red chair by the fireplace. Roy Coffee stood by the fireplace. Roy turned to face Adam and Hoss.

“Are you sure you don’t know where Joe went today?” Roy asked.

“I told you, Roy,” replied Adam with a sigh. “He simply rode off. He said he had some things to do, but he didn’t say what.”

“Seems strange he wouldn’t stay around and help get things ready for the party,” commented Roy.

Hoss glanced at Nancy before answering. “Joe wasn’t too happy about the party,” said Hoss, answering slowly. “That’s why we didn’t think anything was wrong when he didn’t show up.”

Roy nodded, understanding. “And you can’t think of any reason why someone would take a shot at him?” asked Roy. “Nobody he’s had a fight with? Nobody mad at him?”

“Nobody,” replied Adam.

“Maybe I should go upstairs and see if I can help,” Nancy said. She had suggested this before. She was desperately afraid of what Joe might be saying, and she wanted to be in the room if he was talking.

“Nancy, I’ve told you there’s nothing you can do,” said Adam. “Doc Martin and Pa would let us know if they needed anything. You’d just be in the way.”

Nancy nodded, then rubbed the bridge of her nose. She looked tired and scared. Adam and Hoss watched her sympathetically.

The sound of footsteps snapped everyone’s attention to the stairs. Ben and Doctor Martin were walking slowly down the stairs.

“He’s still alive,” said the doctor without any preamble. “Just barely, but he’s alive.”

“How bad is it?” asked Adam fearfully.

“Looks like he was shot maybe six or seven hours ago,” replied the doctor. “He’s lost a lot of blood, and there’s some infection. He’s got a very high fever. He was lucky in one sense though. The bullet hit off his shoulder blade. It chipped and splintered the bone, and tore up a lot of muscle, but the bullet didn’t go in straight. If it had gone straight, he’d
have died instantly.”

“Lucky,” said Nancy softly.

“Doc, when can I talk with him?” asked Roy Coffee. “I need to find out what happened.”

“It’s going to be awhile,” replied the doctor. “Two or three days at least, if he makes it. He’s still unconscious, probably will be for awhile. Even when he wakes up – if he does – he’ll probably be too weak to say much. I can’t imagine how he managed to get home in his condition. Sheer will power, I’d say.”

“Did he say anything about who did this to him?” asked Hoss, a trace of anger evident in his voice.

Ben shook his head. “No,” he answered. “He mumbled a few things, but nothing that made any sense. He’s delirious from the fever.”

 “When I find the no good rat who did this, I’m going to kill him with my bare hands,” Hoss said in a grim voice. Nancy paled even more.

“Now, Hoss, this is a matter for the law,” said Coffee in the firm voice. “Believe me, I’ll find out who did this, and I’ll make sure they get put away for a long time. And if Joe should die….”

“Don’t say that,” Adam said angrily. Nancy put her face in her hands.

Ben and Doctor Martin looked at each other with grim faces. They both knew how serious Joe’s condition was. “I’m going to get a cup of coffee then I’ll go back upstairs,” said the doctor. Ben nodded. Without a word, he turned and climbed back up the stairs.
He hadn’t even looked at Nancy.

Nancy tried to pull herself together. Getting away from the Ponderosa was the foremost thought in her mind. “Sheriff,” she said in a shaky voice. “Would you mind driving me back to town.”

“Yes, ma’am, I’d be happy to,” said Coffee with a little bow.

Noticing Nancy’s distress, Adam thought she was upset by his father ignoring her as well as by the evening’s events. He walked over to Nancy. “I’m sorry this happened,” he said sincerely. Adam glanced over his shoulder to the top of the stairs. “Pa’s worried sick. We are all. If Joe doesn’t make it…” Adam’s voice trailed off. He didn’t quite know how to explain the emotions that he and the other Cartwrights were feeling right now.

“I’m sorry, too,” Nancy said hastily. “I  know Joe doesn’t like me but I would never wish anything bad to happen to him. And I know Ben has other things on his mind right now.”

Adam nodded, grateful that she seemed to understand why Ben had forgotten about her.

“Sheriff, would you take me to town?” Nancy asked again, her voice tinged with panic. Roy nodded. She quickly stood and walked to the door.

Adam watched Nancy leave, then turned to Hoss. “I’m going upstairs,” he announced, not needing to elaborate on which room. “Why don’t you come up in a few hours and relieve me.” Hoss nodded.

After climbing the stairs, Adam walked to Joe’s room. He opened the door slowly, and looked in.

Supported by pillows, Joe was laying on his right side on the bed. Even though the blankets had been pulled up to Joe’s shoulder, Adam could see parts of the bandage which covered his brother’s back and left shoulder. Joe’s eyes were closed and his skin was unnaturally pale. The tell-tale red spot of fever stood out on Joe’s cheek in stark contrast to the paleness of Joe’s face. Ben was wiping beads of sweat from Joe’s face and shoulders with a cloth.

“Pa?” Adam said softly as entered the room. Ben looked up. “Do you need anything?” asked Adam.

Ben shook his head. “No, nothing except maybe a miracle,” he said sadly as he looked at Joe.

Standing at the bottom of his brother’s bed, Adam said nothing for a minute. He could think of no words of comfort that wouldn’t seem false. Finally, he simply said, “Roy Coffee is going to take Nancy back to town.”

Startled, Ben looked back to Adam. He had forgotten all about Nancy. In fact, in the last few hours, his fiancee hadn’t even crossed his mind. The party, the announcement, everything had been forgotten almost the instant he saw his son’s bloody body on the floor. Ben shook his head slowly. He wasn’t sure why but suddenly Ben felt his relationship with Nancy wasn’t quite what he thought it might be.

“Pa, do you want me to sit with Joe for awhile?” asked Adam. He could see Ben was troubled, and not just about his brother’s serious injury.

Ben turned back to Joe. His thoughts about Nancy could wait. “No,” Ben said softly. “I’ll stay with Joe.”

Adam watched his father for a moment, then silently left the room.
 

As soon as she had entered her room at the hotel, Nancy had changed from her party dress to a traveling outfit. She had quickly packed her things, but she left the bags in the room as she rushed out of the hotel. She walked down the dark streets of Virginia City at a rapid pace, ignoring the curious looks she got from the few people on the street at that late hour.

Rushing into a small, cheap hotel at the end of town, Nancy ignored the clerk at the desk and practically ran up the stairs. She stopped in front of a door and began knocking on it with loud raps. In a minute, the door opened. Roger Stevens stood in the doorway, his eyes puffy with sleep, and his hair disheveled. He wore a pair of dark pants, and he was hastily pulling on a shirt. “Duchess?” said Stevens in surprise.

Pushing past the half-awake man, Nancy rushed into the room. Stevens closed the door behind her. “What’s wrong?” he asked.

Nancy whirled to face him. “What’s wrong?” she said in a hysterical voice. “I’ll tell you what’s wrong. Joe Cartwright is alive.”

“Alive?” said Stevens. He shook his head. “You must be mistaken. I took a look at that kid down by the lake. He was a goner for sure.”

“Well, you were wrong,” Nancy said, her voice rising even higher. “Somehow he managed to get home. He walked in, all bloody, right as Ben Cartwright was going to announce our engagement.”

“How did he manage to get to the Ponderosa?” asked Stevens in a shocked voice. Then he waved his hand. “Never mind, that’s not important. What did he say? What did he tell old man Cartwright?”

Taking a deep breath, Nancy tried to calm herself. “Nothing yet,” she admitted. “Evidently, he’s hurt too bad to say anything. The doctor is not even sure he’s going to live.”  Nancy’s voice suddenly grew shrill again. “But if he does, you and I will go to prison for attempted murder!”

“Calm down, calm down,” advised Stevens. “Nobody’s going to prison.” He thought for a moment. “Does Cartwright have any idea who shot his kid?”

“No,” said Nancy. “I heard Adam Cartwright tell the sheriff they had no idea who could have done it.”

“That’s good,” Stevens said thoughtfully. “Maybe we can still pull this off.” He thought for a moment. Then he looked up at Nancy. “You’re going to have to go back to the Ponderosa, and you’re going to have to make sure Joe Cartwright never talks.”

“Me?” Nancy put her hand to her throat. “I can’t do that!”

“You can if you don’t want to spend the rest of your life in prison,” Stevens said grimly.

“No, Roger, I can’t!” protested Nancy. She rushed to stand in front of Stevens. “Let’s just leave, right now, tonight. We can get far away. Ben Cartwright will never find us.”

“Ben Cartwright will find us,” said Stevens. “If that kid tells his old man who shot him, Ben Cartwright will turn over every rock until he finds us. There’s no place we can go that he won’t find us.”

Nancy stood still. She knew Stevens was right. She had spent the past few weeks with Ben Cartwright, and she knew how he felt about his sons. Nancy frowned, then looked at Stevens. “All right,” she said. “I’ll go back to the Ponderosa. Maybe I won’t have to do anything. The doctor wasn’t sure Joe was going to live.  But, one way or the other, I’ll make sure he doesn’t talk.”

“Good,” said Stevens with satisfaction. He walked Nancy to the door. “Just keep thinking about all that lovely Cartwright money,” he advised. “You take care of Joe, and we can go on just as we planned.” Nancy nodded.

As Stevens opened the door, he said to Nancy, “By the way, congratulations on your engagement.”
 

Ben walked wearily down the stairs to the living room. He had spent the night with Joe, worrying about his son. But he had also spent the night thinking. Now, as the dawn was beginning to break, Ben realized he had made a decision. Once Joe was better – and Ben was convinced he would be better – he was going to end his engagement with Nancy Miller.

Ben wasn’t surprised to see Adam sprawled on the couch and Hoss asleep in the chair. Hoss and Adam had taken turns trying to relieve him during the night but Ben had refused to leave Joe’s side. Now, he was taking a brief break to get some coffee while Dr. Martin continued to treat his patient.

“How’s Joe?” asked Adam sleepily as he sat up on the couch. Ben’s footsteps had awaken him. “Any change?”

“Not much,” admitted Ben. “He came to a little while ago, but he was in a lot of pain. The doctor gave him something for the pain, and he went back to sleep almost immediately.”

“Did he say who shot him?” asked Hoss, who was also now awake.

Ben shook his head. “No, “ he said. “He’s still delirious. He just keeps mumbling things that don’t make any sense.” Ben sat wearily in the worn blue chair near the bottom of the stairs. “None of this makes any sense,” he said. “Who would want to kill him?”

Neither Adam and Hoss answered their father. They had spent the night talking and trying to answer that question without success.

Looking at Adam and Hoss, Ben said slowly, “I’ve done some thinking about something else. I’m not going to marry Nancy Miller.”

Adam and Hoss looked at each other in surprise. “But why, Pa?” asked Adam. “I thought you were in love with her.”

“So did I,” answered Ben. “But tonight I realized I was in love with the idea of being in love with Nancy Miller.” He looked at his sons. “I’ve been lucky enough to be in love, really in love, three times in my life. Most men are fortunate if that happens to them once. I started thinking about how I felt when I was with Joe’s mother, with your mother, Hoss, and with yours, Adam. I’m fond of Nancy, but it’s not the same feeling.”

“Pa, you’re tired and upset,” said Hoss. “Maybe this isn’t the right time to think about something like this.”

“No, Hoss,” said Ben. “This is the right time. I realized tonight that I hadn’t thought about Nancy in hours. Once I saw Joe, it never even crossed my mind to talk to Nancy, to include her in what was happening. That was never the case with your mothers. I couldn’t have not included them in any crisis in my life.”

A tired smile appeared on Ben’s lips. “It’s really Joe’s fault,” said Ben. “When he and Hoss tried that little matchmaking stunt, well, it just got me thinking about getting married again. Then I met Nancy, and the idea of getting married just seemed to grow stronger. I began courting Nancy because I wanted to get married again, not the other way around. And that’s not right.”

“Joe will be pleased to hear the news,” said Adam. “He didn’t think making Nancy Miller the fourth Mrs. Ben Cartwright was such a good idea.”

A shadow crossed Ben’s face. “I hope I get a chance to tell him,” Ben said in a sad voice.

“You will, Pa,” said Hoss with more confidence than he felt. “You know Joe. He’s a stubborn little cuss. He’ll pull through.”

A knock on the door startled the Cartwrights. “Who could that be, at this hour?” asked Ben. He stood and walked to the door. Ben’s face showed both surprise and consternation when he pulled open the door and saw Nancy standing there. “Nancy!” exclaimed Ben. “What are you doing here?”

“Hello, darling,” said Nancy. She was dressed in a simple skirt and blouse, her hair hanging loosely to her shoulders. In Nancy’s mind, this was the outfit that a caring stepmother would wear when nursing her injured stepson. Only in Nancy’s case, nursing Joe back to health was the farthest thing from her mind.

Walking into the house, Nancy asked with concern, “How’s Joe?”. She shook her head ruefully. “I just couldn’t sleep thinking and worrying about him. I thought I’d come out and see what I could do to help.”

“He’s about the same,” answered Ben. “He still hasn’t been able to tell us what happened.”

“Oh, that’s too bad,” said Nancy, hoping her relief didn’t show.

Ben hesitated then stepped forward. “Nancy, this may not be the time…” he began.

Suddenly, Doctor Martin appeared at the top of the stairs. “Ben, can you get up here?” he shouted. “Joe’s awake and I need your help.”

Turning, Ben hurried toward the stairs, with Adam and Hoss on his heels. Once again, the Cartwrights had almost instantly forgotten about the woman by the door. Nancy followed slowly up the stairs.

Rushing into Joe’s room, Ben could see his youngest son moving restlessly on the bed, in obvious pain. Joe was breathing hard, and his face was covered with sweat. “Pa?” Joe mumbled. “Pa?”

“He keeps asking for you,” said the doctor to Ben. “His fever is still very high, and I’m not sure he knows what he’s saying, but I thought I ought to get you.”

Nodding, Ben pushed past the doctor. He knelt by the bed so his face with level with Joe. “Joe?” he said softly. “I’m here, son. Your Pa’s here.”

Joe’s eyes had a glazed look. He seemed to be having trouble recognizing the face in front of him. Then he focused on Ben. “Pa,” Joe said in a whisper. “Got to tell you.”  He winced in pain and coughed.

“Got to tell me what?” Ben asked as he stroked Joe’s head. “Joe, who shot you?”

Joe ignored Ben’s question. “Got to tell you,” he repeated in a breathless whisper. “Nancy. Don’t. Nancy.” Joe winced again. His strength seemed to be fading. “Golden Palace.” Joe mumbled. “Duchess. Nancy.”  Joe winced once more, the pain seeming to get worse.

Doctor Martin pushed Ben aside. “I’ve got to give him something for the pain,” the doctor said. “The pain is draining what little strength he has.” The doctor lifted Joe’s head and held a glass with a milky liquid to Joe’s lips. He forced Joe to drink the liquid, then he laid Joe’s head gently on the bed. Joe seemed exhausted. His eyes closed, and his breathing became more even.

“I’ve given him a strong dose of laudanum,” said the doctor, as he straightened. “That should help the pain for awhile.”

“Then what?” asked Ben. “He’s really hurting. Can’t we give him some laudanum more often so he won’t suffer so much?”

“We have to be very careful,” answered the doctor. “We can’t give him another dose for several hours. It would kill him if we gave him another strong dose like this too soon.”

Standing at the end of Joe’s bed, Hoss and Adam’s attention focused on their brother. Neither noticed Nancy standing in the doorway to the room. No one had noticed her growing pale as Joe rambled. And no one noticed how her eyes narrowed as she listened to the doctor’s words.

“Pa, what do you think Joe was trying to say?” asked Adam.

“I don’t know,” said Ben, shaking his head. “I don’t think Joe knows what he was saying. I think he was just rambling.”

“Ben dear,” Nancy said walking forward. “Why don’t you and the doctor and Adam and Hoss get some coffee and breakfast. You all must be exhausted. I’ll sit with Joe for awhile.”

Frowning, Ben said, “Nancy, you don’t have to do this.”

“I know I don’t,” Nancy replied smoothly. “I want to.” She turned to the doctor. “Is there anything that needs to be done?” she asked.

“Not right now,” admitted the doctor. “I’ve changed his bandages, and dosed him with every possible medicine. All we can do is wait.”

Nancy turned to Ben. “You see,” she said. “There’s nothing to do but watch him. I can do that as well as any one of you. You’ve all had a long night. You need some food.”

“She has a point, Ben,” said the doctor. He looked around the room at the tired faces of the Cartwrights. “You all look like you could use some food and rest. You’re not going to help Joe by making yourselves sick. And I don’t need any more patients.”

Ben smiled briefly at the doctor’s words. “All right,” he said. “I guess a cup of coffee would be a good idea.” He turned to Nancy. “You call us if there’s any change,” he instructed her. “Any change at all.”

“Of course, Ben,” said Nancy. “I’ll call you the minute anything happens.”

Nodding, Ben turned and put his hands on Adam’s and Hoss’ shoulders. “Come on, boys,” he urged them. “Let’s get some food in you.”

Hoss seemed reluctant to leave. “Pa, maybe I ought to stay here,” he said. “Joe might need something.”

“I’ll call you if he needs you,” Nancy said quickly. “I promise. Now go get something to eat. You must be starved.”

Looking down at his brother sleeping in the bed, Hoss let out a sigh. “All right,” he said, the reluctance still obvious in his voice. Ben, Adam and Hoss left the room.

Doctor Martin pulled a chair up next to the bed for Nancy. She nodded her thanks and sat down. “I’ll be right downstairs if you need me,” said the doctor. Nancy nodded again, and the doctor left the room.

Sitting by Joe’s bed, Nancy waited for several minutes. She wanted to be sure no one was going to come back into the room. She looked at Joe, laying in the bed. Even with the pain and fever reflected on his face, she thought he was a handsome boy. “It’s too bad,” Nancy said softly. “You could have made things so much more attractive around here.”

Rising from the chair, Nancy slowly walked to the table by the bed. Several bottles were on the table. She picked up a familiar blue one, and read the label, just to be sure. She pour a quantity of the liquid from the bottle into a glass, then mixed a little water from the pitcher on the table into the glass. She swirled the mixture in the glass, and the contents took on a milky look.

Kneeling by Joe’s bed, Nancy lifted Joe’s head as she had seen the doctor do it, and put the glass with the deadly potion to Joe’s lips.

“Nancy, I wanted to talk with you…” a voice suddenly said behind her. Nancy spun around. Ben was standing in the door, a startled look on his face. “What are you doing?” he demanded.

“Nothing,” said Nancy, quickly putting the glass on the table. “I…I just was trying to give Joe some water.” She let Joe’s head drop back to the pillows.

Frowning, Ben walked to the table. He picked up the glass Nancy had put down and sniffed it. He held up the glass and saw the milky look of the liquid. “This isn’t water,” said Ben in a voice cold as steel. “What were you trying to do?”

Quickly backing away from Ben, Nancy eased herself toward the bedroom door. “Nothing,” she insisted. “He seemed restless, and I was just trying to….” Nancy’s voice faded as she saw the disbelieving look on Ben’s face.

“Ben, darling,” she said in a soothing voice. “Surely you don’t think I’d do anything to hurt Joe?”

“I don’t know, Nancy,” said Ben, his voice still cold. “Whenever I ask Joe who shot him, he says your name. I thought he was just delirious. Now I’m not so sure.”

“Ben, what are you saying?” said Nancy in alarm.

“I think you’d better leave this room,” Ben said. “In fact, I think you’d better leave this house.”

“But Ben…” said Nancy.

“Nancy, I came up here because I wanted to tell you that I couldn’t marry you, that our engagement was off,” said Ben.  “Now I think you’d better leave before I do something that I might regret.”

“What?” said Nancy. Her face twisted in anger. “You’re calling off our marriage! After all I’ve done! How could you do that?”

“And just what have you done?” asked Ben in a cold voice.

Realizing what she had said, Nancy put her hand to her throat and stared at the look on Ben Cartwright’s face. She had never seen such a hard, threatening look. A stab of fear ran through her. Nancy looked around the room for a moment, then turned and ran down the stairs.

Bending over the bed, Ben could hear Joe’s labored breathing. He laid his hand on Joe’s forehead, and felt the heat of the fever. Ben shook his head. Joe was still fighting for his life and Ben was determined that this was a fight Joe would win. Ben stroked Joe’s head lightly.

Hearing the front door slam shut, Ben knew Nancy had left, as he had ordered her to do. Ben frowned, and looked again at the glass Nancy had had in her hand. He suddenly realized the woman had tried to harm Joe, maybe kill him, and he had let her leave. He turned and walked rapidly out of the room, yelling, “Adam, Hoss, come here quick,”  as he left the bedroom.
 
 

It was three days later when Joe finally opened his eyes and looked around. He winced as he felt a stab of pain in his back. He felt tired and weak, and his vision seem a bit blurry. Joe blinked several times. Suddenly, things started to come into focus. Three anxious faces were staring down at him.

“Well, you’re finally awake,” said Ben in a voice that sounded too hearty.

“Pa?” asked Joe weakly. He winced again at the pain.

“Take it easy, Joe,” said Ben in a much more soothing voice. “The doctor says you’re going to be all right but you have to lay still.”

“You had us all worried there for awhile, little brother,” added Hoss. His smile reflected both relief and affection. “You sure do know how to get attention, don’t you?”

Nodding, Joe closed his eyes for a moment, gathering some strength. He knew what he had to tell his father, and he hated the thought of doing it. Joe opened his eyes and looked up. “Pa, it was Nancy and Stevens….” Joe began.

“We know,” said Ben, interrupting him. “You told us.”

“I did?” said Joe in a confused voice. He didn’t remember telling anyone anything.

“Well, you told us enough that we figured it out…finally,” said Adam.

“Yeah, little brother, you’ve been rambling on and on for the past two days about Nancy, the Duchess, and the Golden Palace,” added Hoss.

Confused, Joe shook his head. The last thing he remember was coming through the front door of the house on the night of the party. He looked around the room. “Did you get them?”

“We got them,” said Ben grimly. “They’re both sitting in the Virginia City jail. Charged with attempted murder, fraud, and anything else we can think of.” Ben pursed his lips.  “I’m going to make sure they spend a long time in prison.”

“Hoss and I caught up with Nancy – or should I say, the Duchess – in Stevens’ room in Virginia City,” added Adam. “Once they realized we were on to them, they turned on each other. Both started accusing the other of all kinds of things.” Adam shook his head. “It didn’t take long for us to piece the whole sordid story together.”

Looking down, Joe said softly, “I’m sorry, Pa. I know how much you loved Nancy.”

“I didn’t love her as much as I thought I did,” said Ben. He glanced at Adam and Hoss, then turned to look at Joe. “And I certainly didn’t love her more than my sons.”

Letting out a breath, Joe nodded, relieved that Ben wasn’t devastated by Nancy’s betrayal. Suddenly, Joe felt tired, and his eyes grew heavy.

Ben saw Joe’s eyes closing. “Come on,” he said softly to Adam and Hoss. “Let’s let Joe get some rest.”

Opening his eyes a bit, Joe gave his father a weak grin. “Pa,” he said. “I think I did a better job than you at picking out a wife for you.”

“Yes, I guess you did,” Ben admitted, smiling back as his son. “But I think all of our ‘wife hunting days’ are ended, at least for me. The next Mrs. Cartwright who shows up at the Ponderosa is going to be married to one of my sons, not me.”

“Don’t be too sure, Pa,” said Adam with a smile. “Once Joe gets back on his feet, there’s no telling what he might cook up.”

“That’s right, Pa,” added Hoss with a grin. “He’s real good at matchmaking.”

“And I’m telling all three of you, right now, that I am not interested in getting married again,” said Ben sternly. “Is that understood?”  He looked around the room at his sons. Adam and Hoss nodded. Joe’s head moved slightly, and Ben took it as a sign of agreement. Ben’s face softened. “Now let’s get out of here so Joe can rest,” he said in a quiet voice.

Closing his eyes, Joe settled comfortably in the bed. A ghost of a smile made his lips twitch as he began to drift off. I wonder if Beth Robinson is engaged yet, thought Joe as
he began to fall asleep.