One Step Closer - Turns in Fate

by MissjudyK

Ben, Hoss, and Joe head to Boston after hearing that Adam has experienced a horrendous loss. He has lost the Wadsworth family he loved in Boston, and may lose the company he's been running as well, once the will is read. The tragedy does gives Ben a chance to get to know his grandchildren, but he worries that this may be one loss too many for his son.

1. Chapter 1

This is part of the One Step Closer series. No need to read the previous stories to enjoy this. This is a post canon series, where Adam has returned to Boston to marry the woman he loved when he was there for school. They've been married for 8 years and have 2 children. Adam has taken over the engineering firm owned by the family that he has become part of through his college roommate. In this story, the entire family has perished, leaving Adam in deep grief and facing the loss of the people he loved and the company he's been running if the will names an heir who doesn't want Adam Cartwright to stay in charge. Only the Cartwrights can support the oldest son through this uncertain time.

Turns in Fate

Part One

One – Saturday, October 5, 1872

Ben was heading down the steps to join Hoss and Joe for breakfast when a sharp knock on the front door made him detour. He smiled as he looked outside and saw Ricky Epson, the son of the Western Union operator in Virginia City. He had a cloth bag slung across his chest with what appeared to be a rolled-up newspaper inside. "What brings you out here so early?" he inquired as he ushered the youngster into the house. It was only 7 AM, and the distance from town would have added a good 45-minute ride when made on the small horse that was tied to the hitching rail in the yard.

"Pa got a telegram for yer family around five this mornin', Mr. Cartwright. He weren't sure if you was comin' to town today, so he said I should hurry out here, cuz it's really important."

"Thank you for getting such an early start." Ben's serious tones matched the boy's, but he laughed as the Ricky's's eyes drifted past him toward the table where Hoss and Little Joe were eating. "Did you have breakfast before you set out?"

"Just a piece of bread with Ma's raspberry jelly." He sniffed the air. "That bacon sure smells good."

Hoss motioned him toward the table. "C'mon over, Ricky, there's plenty here. Pa can read what you brought and he might need to send something back anyway, so you might as well get a little sustenance for the trip home."

Ricky stepped around Ben and was headed for the table when Ben took his arm. "Aren't you forgetting something?" He laughed when the boy returned a clueless stare. "The telegram, son. You still have it."

Ben took the bag containing the newspaper to his desk and opened an envelope with the words," Read First," printed on it. It was a note from Ricky's father, noting that the telegram had come in from Boston at the crack of dawn. The instructions accompanying the wire had asked that he try to find a copy of the San Francisco Chronicle containing the story that would elaborate on the short message. He'd gone to the general store that received the daily papers, and luckily the stage had come through an hour earlier with what he'd needed.

Ben's curiosity was on high alert as he tried to undo the string tied around the newspaper. The telegram was from Boston, so it was undoubtedly from Adam. Several possibilities came to mind as he worked at the knot. Had his son won another award or secured a huge contract? Or maybe he was coming back to San Francisco to perform with his choral and guitar group again. Any of these might warrant an article in the Chronicle. His efforts only manage to get the knot tighter, and he finally rolled it off instead.

He could hear his sons joking and laughing with Ricky as he scanned the headline that made his head swim. Prominent San Francisco Engineer, Frank Wadsworth Jr, Perished At Sea Along With Entire Family. His heart pounded as he scanned the article noting that the Wadsworth family had been sailing with friends in the English Channel off the coast of Guernsey on September 25, when the sloop, Assomption*, went down. The cause of the wreck wasn't known, but the bodies of Franklin Wadsworth Sr., his wife, Marion Wadsworth, and their grown children, Amelia Wadsworth-Brighton, her husband, Nathan, and Frank Wadsworth Jr, were recovered from the wreckage. The piece noted that there were no other surviving members of the family. Also noted was that Frank Jr. had operated an arm of the family engineering business in San Francisco for several years, while Adam Cartwright, of the Virginia City-Ponderosa Cartwrights, had been made managing director of the Boston empire of Wadsworth Engineering four years ago when Frank Sr. had moved to London.

Bens' mind raced over what he knew about the Wadsworths. Frank Sr. had been so impressed by Adam when he'd first come to Boston for school that he'd used his influence to put his own son Frankie in the same dormitory room and classes at Harvard with the youngster from the West. Adam had helped Frankie settle into study habits and tutored him when he'd fallen behind, and they'd become close as brothers. In turn, Frankie had brought Adam out to the Wadsworth home where he'd quickly found a place in Frank and Marian's hearts, and was soon considered "one of the family".

Ben had witnessed the affection between Adam and Frank Sr. when he'd visited Boston around the time Adam had married. It had bothered him at first, but he'd come to realize that Adam had simply added more members to his family, not made substitutions.

He'd never met the sister noted in the article, and he didn't think Adam knew her well either. Since there were no youngsters mentioned as surviving the couple, he assumed that she and her husband had remained childless.

Ben's thoughts turned next to Frankie. The young man had chosen to go to San Francisco after he'd graduated instead of working at the family firm in Boston. Ben had gotten to know him when they'd gotten together during Cartwright trips to the Frisco area, and when Frankie had visited the ranch. The young man had seemed gregarious and full of fun. Yet, there were times when Ben would catch a glimpse of Frankie in a private moment where he seemed lost in a private sadness.

This theory had been confirmed by Adam more than once. His son had spent several winters working for Frankie's company in an attempt to keep his own engineering skills sharp, and while he hadn't shared any confidences, he had mentioned to his father that Frankie had grown weary of the business. Even Frank had told Ben during his visits that he felt his own son had trouble walking in his father's footsteps. He thought perhaps the boy was too much like him to want to work with him, but he worried for him being so far away. Ben's heart twisted now as he wondered if the two Wadsworth men had resolved whatever issues had set them on opposite sides of the country.

He finally slipped a finger beneath the flap of the telegram. He had a good idea what it would say, and was already thinking ahead to what he'd need to do. The message was simple and seemingly emotionless. His oldest son was stoic to a fault at times, but the words told him all he needed to know of Adam's state of mind.

WADSWORTH FAMILY DIED AT SEA(stop) SEE NEWSPAPER IF AVAILABLE(stop) MEMORIAL SERVICE OCTOBER 17(stop) YOUR ATTENDANCE APPRECIATED IF POSSIBLE(end)

His heart broke for his eldest as he reread the words, and translated the last part to, "I need you, Pa." He wrote a quick response, placed it in the tote bag, and carried that along with the newspaper and telegram to the table. "If you're finished, Ricky, I'd appreciate you heading back. I want your father to send a response as quickly as possible.

Ricky shoved the last of his bacon and biscuit in his mouth and washed it down with his remaining milk before placing the bag over his shoulder and grabbing his hat on the way to the door. He was used to hurrying in his family's business, and liked taking the yellow envelopes to the recipients. Sometimes they laughed as they read them; other times they cried, but they always gave him a "little something" for his effort. This time had been even better. He'd gotten a good breakfast, and as he'd gotten up from the table, Mr. Cartwright had slipped folding cash into his hand along with a verbal thank you, and a pat on the back. He'd wait until he was a little ways from the house before looking to see how much it was, but in this case, he knew he'd be very happy.

Hoss asked, "So what's Adam got to say?" as soon as the door closed behind Ricky.

Ben stopped pushing dishes aside to look at his sons. Both were ginning at him and he laughed. "So I wear my heart on my sleeve when it comes to my boys. Is that so awful?"

"Not awful at all," Joe replied as he watched his father's grin fold to a frown. "But I can tell by your face that this isn't a friendly note to let you know that they're coming for a visit or having another baby."

Ben placed the paper on the table between Hoss and Joe. "This happened over a week ago, but I suppose it took that long for the details to make it to the states and then for Adam to make plans."

"Boy, that's a lot of loss for our older brother. I wonder how he's doing." Joe said after scanning the print; his somber tone reflecting his concern.

"I'm sure he's been very busy with arrangements, and there's probably a lot of tension at the office. He won't be able to do much more than keep things afloat until he finds out the disposition of things in Frank's will."

Joe smiled sadly at his father. "So when are you leaving?"

"It's the fifth of October and we've got a week-and-a-half to make it there for the memorial. If we have one of the crew take us to Reno tomorrow, we can catch the train and get there in about eight days. That would get there a day or two before the service."

"You sure we can all go?" Hoss asked.

"The herds are separated and fattening for our last fall orders. Our crews are capable of moving them out next week. The timber contracts are all filled and we won't do winter pasturing until mid-November, so it's a perfect time for us all to go. I'll go over the plans with the foremen today, and I'll take the ledgers along to work on during the trip." He thought a moment. "And it's not like they can't reach us with a telegram if there's trouble." He knew his sons were glad to be included in the trip, but the joy of going was reduced by the reason. "You two get packed, and then get as many of the weekly chores done as you can today. Write up lists for what needs to be done going forward."

"That telegram says there's a memorial service. What do people wear to somethin' like that in Boston?" Hoss gulped. "I ain't lookin' forward to getting' gussied up and minglin' with a lot of fancy folks."

Ben shot his middle son a harsh look. "You're doing this for your brother, and I'll hear no complaints about your hardships."

"Sorry, Pa. I didn't mean nothin' by it. I guess my nerves is showin' is all."

The look softened. "I'm sorry too, son. This is a shock, and we've all got a lot to do in a little time. But," the stern look returned as he addressed the sons on either side of him, "you two will need to keep your shenanigans, verbal sparring, and opinions to a minimum when we're there, or you'll make things even harder for Adam." He squinted as he thought back to the original question that had started this exchange. "Just bring a couple of nice shirts and pants. We'll buy something for the service in Boston." He thought again and added. "Bring some work clothes too. He'll need eyes and ears at his job sites. Crews will often slow down when there's an unknown situation, and other businesses might try to take advantage."

Two – Sunday, October 6, 1872

Adam looked up and smiled as Melinda entered the room off the living area that served as his at-home office, and then refocused on the list in front of him. He normally spent Sunday afternoons with his family: but not this Sunday. The confirmation of the Wadsworth family's demise had come on Tuesday, and he'd spent almost every hour since then making plans, contacting people, and giving assurances. He'd telegraphed a notice to San Francisco for submission in the Friday Chronicle, and hoped that Marv at the Western Union office in Virginia City had been able to find the correct paper to send along with the message to his family.

Melinda stood quietly next to his desk holding a small envelope with the Western Union symbol. He was concentrating so deeply on what was in front of him that she decided not to disturb him, and thought back over the last few tumultuous days as she waited for him to finish. The news of the catastrophe had hit them all like a sledge hammer. Adam had remained in complete control as he'd handled detail after detail associated with the sudden loss. He wasn't involved in the estate as an executor, but the lawyer for the family had asked Adam to plan the memorial service.

She'd cried her sorrow out before they'd explained the deaths to their children. AJ and Elizabeth's hearts had broken at the thought of not seeing Grandma Marian and Grandpa Frank again, but they were resilient and their sorrow was easing with each passing day. She'd worried more that Adam would go crazy if he didn't release his pain.

Her fear for his sanity had lessened some when she'd found his side of the bed empty that morning and looked out the bedroom window after hearing noise in the back yard. It was barely light, but she had seen him in the garden chopping at the dead vegetable plants like a man taking on a legion of demons. He'd stopped when he'd been too exhausted to swing the hoe again; dropped to his knees and buried his face in his hands. She'd teared up as well when she'd seen his back convulse with silent sobs. It had tortured her to see him cry, but she'd been relieved that he'd allowed himself to grieve. She'd always known that he kept his emotions close to his vest, but he'd opened his heart to her when they'd married. This was still so deep and raw that she understood that he'd have to experience it alone before sharing it with her.

"This just came," she said when he finished his notes. "The courier apologized for it being delayed. The system was down for a repair until a few hours ago."

"I thought I heard the bell." He smiled up at her as he laid his pencil down and took the telegram.

She stood behind him, peering over his shoulder as he opened it. A stack of similar envelopes was off to the side of his desk, all bearing condolences from clients and friends. But this one bore the origination point as Virginia City, and she hoped it bore news that would lift her husband's spirits. She rested her arms on his shoulders as she brushed his cheek with a kiss, and then read the message along with him.

"They're all coming!" His smile grew to a happy grin. "I hope they're bringing work clothes because I'm going to need their help."

Melinda kissed his cheek again and clicked her tongue. "Your father and brothers haven't even gotten here and you're already putting them to work?"

"Absolutely." He leaned back in his chair and took her hand as he moved her around to sit on his lap. "I could really use them to monitor the jobsites. We're having trouble—not with other companies trying to weasel their way in…yet—but with a few of our own people."

"What do you mean?"

"I visited each site as soon as the news about Frank broke; assuring them that everything would stay the same for now, and promising to keep them informed of anything that will affect them. Bill Murdoch, the lawyer for the Wadsworths, came with me. He verified that while the family did 'own' the engineering firm, it is independent from the personal estate. We run our own books and therefore can continue to operate without any changes until the new owner is named."

Her brows neared as her face pinched into a question. "Are there money worries at the firm?"

Adam rubbed his forehead. "The company is doing very well. When I took over, I bought new equipment and that cut into profits for a year. But those changes allowed the men to work faster and safer, so we were able to do more jobs and finish on time. Frank always said that walking away from his own business was the best thing he ever did. He likened it to the parable of the five talents**, and said that if he'd entrusted the company to another man, they might have continued to do things as they'd always been done, but there'd have been no growth. I took chances with what he'd given me and nearly doubled the gross income in a little over two years, and it's quadrupled now." He chuckled. "I know he wasn't enamored with some of my early decisions, but he let me make them." A deep sigh escaped followed by a sniff.

Melinda touched his cheek. "This is a great loss for all of us, but even more so for you." She thought a moment. "Did Bill give you any idea who inherits the business? He must know."

He shook his head. "Frank's remaining relatives either run their own companies or are in academia. It wouldn't make sense for them to change what's working so well." The sad smile returned. "That's not to say there isn't a nephew or cousin who might need a job, and I'd be dismissed so they could have my position."

"They'd be fools." She grinned and kissed him squarely on the lips. "Besides, there isn't a firm in this city that wouldn't welcome you greedily!" Her brows dipped. "We got off track. What's going on with the crews at the sites?"

"Frank was tough, but very popular with his men. He personally handed out bonuses when jobs were completed on-time; knew every man well enough that he could ask about their families, and always had a quarter keg of beer delivered to the sites on Friday afternoon when the crew met their goals for the week. I continued those traditions when I took over. We're shutting down work next Thursday for the service, and sending lunch to the individual sites on Friday. I'll go around to each luncheon and give them time to talk about the family and thank them for their good efforts. That seemed to satisfy them. Yet we heard about one naysayer almost immediately. Barney works at the inland harbor site. He had that crew at a standstill on Friday while he spewed his bile about how we'll keep them working but then have no money to pay them."

"What will you do?"

"The same thing Pa and I did with the troublemakers in our bunkhouse. I'll go see him tomorrow and explain that no man is irreplaceable. Then I'll tell him that if he continues to spread rumors, he will personally experience the truth of that statement."

"Will the other men rally behind him if he's fired?" Melinda's tone had turned to concern.

"I've learned that a crew will agree with a negative person to their face, but they're usually tired of the complaining too. We have good men, and if I don't address the main offender, it will become an infection and spread from one site to the next."

Melinda grinned and then pursed her lips. "I know men don't like advice from women, but I had a similar situation at the publishing company. We had to rearrange staff and retrain a few people for other jobs when we got the new press last year. There was one man who simply refused to believe that we wouldn't fire them all as soon as the renovation was done. He had the entire press team in a frenzy."

"I remember that, but I can't remember what you did."

"I told him pretty much what you will say to Barney, but then I set him up to help oversee the press installation. I couldn't have done that if he hadn't been qualified, but once he was part of the process, he couldn't complain about it."

Adam gave her a hug. "Barney is very knowledgeable and it would be a shame to lose him. Maybe I'll make him the official liaison between me and the crews. He can tell me what's bothering the men, and then can get back to them with the correct answers." He squeezed her tighter. "It will be hard for him to complain when he's responsible for keeping morale up. Thank you."

Melinda stood and tugged on his arm. "You've worked enough for the day. Why don't we get the children from Abel and Sadie and go out to the Wadsworth estate to ride. I know Elizabeth would love to be on her pony."

He closed his eyes and bit his lip as he considered her request. "I think it best if we stay away for now. The ownership is in limbo, and I wouldn't want the eventual heir to think we were out there taking the silverware."

"They wouldn't!" She noticed the slight curve to his lips and swatted him. "I suppose you're right though…." Her humor vanished as she added, "It's so inconceivable to think that Frank and Marian won't ever live there again."

Adam pulled out his handkerchief, turning away to wipe across his eyes. "We were fortunate to have them as family." A deep sigh escaped. "I'm not sure why Bill asked me to plan the service. I'd have thought he'd ask the heir. But I'm honored to help and I suppose this is aimed more at the people the Wadsworths knew through business and their charitable work rather than family. I hope it goes as I've envisioned it." He winked at Melinda. "I should say as we've envisioned it. I'm thankful for your help."

"We've gone over each detail. It will be a fitting tribute done out of love and respect."

"You're right about that. And you're right about me needing to do something different. Let's get the Stoddards and our children, and walk to the park. We'll find a restaurant for dinner and forget all this," he pointed at the piles of paper on his desk, "for a few hours."

Three – Friday, October 11, 1872, 7 AM

Hoss had to turn sideways to stretch in the aisle of the sleeper car after exiting his berth. He smacked his lips and groaned as he tried to get the kinks out of his back from sleeping on the short bed.

Little Joe opened the curtain to his berth and hissed, "Why do you have to make so much noise when you stretch?"

"I can't help it." Hoss leaned on Joe's bunk. "I'm feelin' a like a big dog that's been curled in a small cage."

Ben was already up, dressed, and reading the newspaper in the seating area of the car. He shook his head as he eyed his sons. "You two complain about these conditions in a five-day trip across the country. It took Adam and me several years to get from Boston to Missouri as I worked along the way to keep us going. And then it took another four months in a crowded wagon, sleeping on the ground most nights to get to Wyoming where we wintered."

Joe blushed at his father's reprimand, but it didn't stop him from interjecting, "And it was uphill the entire way too."

Hoss laughed as he added, "And somewhere along the way you gained an extra passenger who cried a lot, threw up on all yer clean shirts, and wet his diapers."

Ben gave his sons a stern look, and then laughed along with them. "I guess I have told that story a few times. Still, we are fortunate to be living in such of modern age where new innovations come along every day."

Ticket prices that included access to the sleeping car were prohibitive—probably accounting for why the Cartwrights had been the only occupants for most of the trip. But Ben had paid the extra rate so they wouldn't be over-tired when they reached their destination. Ben had first planned to leave Sunday, but he'd found out there was an express train going through on Monday that would cut the trip to a mere five days…if everything went well. The express only stopped at major stations, so it was a good choice for those making cross country trips. Both cargo and passengers paid a premium for the service, and the railways gave these trains preferential use of the track system. The trip had gone smoothly and they were scheduled to arrive in Boston later in the morning.

"I do thank you for spending the extra money for the sleepin' accomodations, Pa," Hoss offered apologetically. "It's just that nothin' seems to fit a guy of my size, so I get to feelin' a little cramped and cranky. But it sure does beat sleepin' sittin' up on a bench with yer neck snappin' every time the train jerks. I recall how it was when you and me went to Boston a few years back. And who knows, maybe one day we'll get us a fine rail car like Adam's company has."***

"I'm not holding my breath on Pa purchasing a decked-out Pullman car for us," Joe giggled. "Then again, we could build a spur out to the ranch and park it there when we weren't going anywhere, and use it as a guest house."

"Enough of your big plans." Ben shook his head as he eyed his sons, and then laughed. "Get dressed and we'll have breakfast at the next stop. I arranged for the porter to wire ahead so it'll be ready when we get there." His face dropped to the concerned frown that had become the norm over the trip. "We'll have lunch in Boston."

"That won't come soon enough for you," Joe teased. "I wonder how Adam's holding up."

"He won't show nothin' being wrong, but you'll see his tells like always," Hoss supplied. "People think he don't get sad or feel miserable because he has that poker face, but you see it in his eyes if you know what to look for."

"He sighs a lot when he's upset too." Joe thought a moment, and added, "And his jaw clenches when he thinks about what's bothering him, but he'll never admit to any of it."

"Of course he's extremely saddened by this. And he's got to keep the business going while the estate is in limbo. The will could be read pretty quickly under normal circumstance, but I'm sure it's a huge estate with many elements. And that's not taking into consideration the possibility that no heir is named beyond Frank's children. Adam's troubles won't end there if the new owner lets him go or worse, if the estate goes into limbo for a long period. Wadsworth Engineering won't be able to withstand years of squabbling over ownership."

"Adam's got enough money to weather that, and he's so good at what he does, he won't have trouble finding work," Joe offered.

"That's true." Ben motioned his sons to sit by him. "Money or a job isn't the issue. It's another loss added to the rest of it. Frank entrusted Adam with his family business and your brother's innovations made it a powerhouse again. I don't think he would do well losing it to a situation over which he has no control." He became thoughtful. "The two of you keep me from becoming complacent, just as Adam did with Frank. I'm grateful for that and probably don't tell you enough. The Ponderosa stays strong and grows because of trying new things to complement what already works."

Hoss stood, but had to sidestep and grab the seat back when the train car lurched. He righted himself and laughed at his acrobatics. "I'm glad this ain't a ship or I'd go flying over the side when that happens." He took on a more serious tone. "And thanks for sayin' what you did about Joe and me bein' a help, Pa. I can't imagine what it would be like if someone got hold'a the Ponderosa, and Adam probably feels purdy much the same way about this engineerin' company. Turning it over to someone else would leave a hole in him fer sure."

Four – Friday Morning, October 5, 1872 – Boston,

Adam smiled, put down his coffee cup and newspaper, and shoved his chair away from the table when he heard the giggling at the top of the stairs followed by the pounding of little feet down the steps. He knew what was coming and spread his arms to greet his children.

Three-year-old Elizabeth ran across the living room, climbed up onto her father's lap, and threw her arms around his neck. A kiss to his cheek preceded her, "G'morning, Daddy." She placed a hand on either side of his face and made him look directly at her. "You don't look so sad like you did the yesterdays before."

"I'm not so sad as the yesterdays, my love," he said as he gave her a bear hug, kissed her forehead, and then shuttled her to a perch on his left knee to free the other leg for his son.

Adam Cartwright Junior, or AJ, as he was called, was six, going on thirty, and while more reserved, still liked sitting on his father's lap. AJ walked across the room to allow his sister ample time to give her greeting, and then backed up to his father's vacant knee. He jumped while Adam's arm encircled him and lent upward thrust. The little boy traded a kiss with his father and said, "Lizzy's right, Daddy. You don't look so sad today. Mommy said that Grandma and Grandpa Wadsworth are in Heaven now, so we should be happy for them…even though we miss them."

Adam pulled his son tighter to him and kissed the top of his head. "Mommy's right, and I haven't been so much sad, as busy. I have many things to do for Grandpa Frank, and Grandma Marian. Helping them makes me happy, even though remembering why I'm doing these things can make me sad." He gave both children a squeeze. "I'll need you two to remind me that I shouldn't be."

Elizabeth's face puckered as she sniffed. "I miss them Daddy, and that makes me sad. But I can't help it."

"It's all right to feel sad that they aren't here any longer, sweetheart. When we lose people we love, our feelings get all tangled up, just like that chain on the pretty necklace you wear. Those knots make you sad, but we work them out and it's good again." He sighed into a smile, fearing that his explanation was too complicated.

The little girl nodded. "That chain would never get them knots if I kep' it in the box, but it's too bootiful to do that. Mommy says we can't be afraid of doin' somethin' just cuz it takes a little work."

"Mommy's right again. We loved the Wadsworths so much, and they're too beautiful to keep them from our thoughts just so we don't feel sad."

AJ had been quiet, but he tugged on his father's shirt. "Can I tell you something, Daddy?"

Adam laughed internally. His son was so serious. The boy was always thinking and forming opinions, but instead of just saying them, he'd preface each statement with the question he'd just asked. "You have been very patient in waiting to give your thoughts, AJ, and I thank you for letting your sister finish first."

"When I feel sad about the Wadsworths, I talk to them."

Elizabeth giggled as she snuggled into her father's chest. "AJ's silly. How can he talk to them when they're in Heaven?"

"Be respectful Elizabeth," Adam cautioned. "Your brother's thoughts aren't silly."

The boy was unaffected by his sister's remark, and continued. "In church we learn that God hears us, so now that Grandma and Grandpa Wadsworth are with Him, maybe they can hear us too."

"I think that's good reasoning, son. What do you tell them?"

AJ sat up straighter and looked down as he swung his legs. "I say I miss them and will never forget them, and I hope they're very happy."

Adam sniffed as he blinked hard to clear his eyes. "That's just fine; I think they're very pleased to hear from you." He pulled both children in a little tighter and inhaled. He'd always imagined he'd have children, but the long wait to receive this gift made it even sweeter. There was a scent about them he loved, and he breathed deeply again to experience it. He couldn't say exactly what it was, but imagined it was the smell of soap enhanced by innocence. "You know who's coming today?" he asked brightly to change the mood.

AJ Jumped from his lap and ran around the room hollering, "Grampa Ben, Uncle Horse, and Uncle Little Joe." He stopped his circle as he chewed his lip. "I never met Uncle Joe, but I remember the other two…a little."

"Then it's about time they came to visit, isn't it?" He noted Elizabeth's worried look. Where AJ was outgoing, his daughter was shy, and he knew the pending arrival of strangers was making her uneasy. He tipped her face up and spoke softly. "Don't you worry, sweetheart, you're going to like them. And they'll love you to pieces. Grandpa Ben can growl like a bear but he's as gentle as a kitten, and he'll be so happy to meet you. Your uncle Hoss is as big as a tree, but as gentle as a breeze, and Little Joe is just a big kid himself, so you'll have lots of fun." He saw her mouth turn downward in her usual pout. "You'll have to give them a chance, Lizzy. Don't be afraid."

He was still giving Lizzy a hug of encouragement when Jillian, the children's nanny, came downstairs. Having live-in help for the children was a requirement for the Cartwright family. Melinda had used profits from her teaching manuals to purchase an equal share of the publishing company where she worked. She brought manuscripts home to work on for part of the day, but she was needed at the office for a while each day to go over business matters.

"Good morning, Mr. Cartwright." Jillian gave him a quick nod and smile as she gathered the two charges and got them seated at the table. "I heard what you said about your family arriving today. I'm anxious to meet them too."

"They're easy to be around. And thank you for all your help over the last week. I know Melinda and I have been absent making arrangements for the service, and you've helped immeasurably with the children. We couldn't have handled this without you." She smiled with the compliment and headed toward the kitchen to get the plates ready for AJ and Elizabeth. Adam stood and addressed his children. "I have to leave for work, so you two be good and listen to Jillian. Your mother has to be gone a few hours too, but she'll see you before she goes." He listened and looked toward the front windows to confirm what he'd heard. "My ride is here. I'll be back in the afternoon with the rest of the Cartwright family." He gave each child a quick kiss, and trotted up the steps to say goodbye to Melinda.

She was exiting their bedroom when he got to the top of the steps. "Are you leaving already?" she asked.

"I made early appointments so I can take Pa and my brothers out for lunch when they arrive." He pressed a long kiss to her lips. "It's been a long week and I'm looking forward to seeing them. I have the last of the client meetings today and then I'll be able to finalize the service preparations. I hope these…'conversations' will be enough to assuage the doubt our customers felt when they heard the news. Unfortunately, I can only guarantee what will happen until the new owner is named."

Melinda gave him a quick peck on his lips and smiled. "Most of your clients went through some trepidation when you took over the company, and since that went so well, they'll trust you in this."

"You're right." He chuckled. "I've been saying that you're right a lot lately. You were right about the crew and getting Barney to help instead of hinder. And your son and daughter just told me what you said about losing the Wadsworths, and that was right, and now you're probably right about this. I thought the husband was supposed to be the one with the brains in the family."

She grinned devilishly. "I didn't marry you for your brain, my love. I do adore your brain, but I've come to appreciate some other parts too."

He pulled her even closer, sighing as his body flooded with heat as it always did when she was near. "Oh yeah? And just what parts might those be?"

She whispered her answer in his ear, making her husband blush. "But I've also come to cherish your heart. You have the compassion and love of a hundred men inside you. It's why people trust you; why our children idolize you, and why I can't breathe when I think of ever being without you."

Five – Noon-Friday, October 11th

The three Cartwrights were approached by a man in uniform as they exited the train station in Boston.

"Mr. Cartwright sends his apologies, sirs, but he was still in a meeting when it came time to leave."

Ben extended his hand to the man he recognized as the carriage driver for Wadsworth Engineering. "You're Jimmy, if I remember correctly. Thank you for coming for us. Will you be taking us to the house?"

"No, sir. The boss said I should bring you to the office first. He'll be done by the time we get there, and he'll take you out for lunch."

Hoss renewed his acquaintance with the young driver, and then introduced Joe before the three men climbed inside the large vehicle.

"Adam's got a driver? Has he become such a city guy that he forgot how to steer his own buggy?" Joe's tone was teasing, trimmed with a fringe of envy.

"This rig belongs to the company, Joe," his father explained. "Adam has it on hand during the day so he and his men can get to where they need to be, and for transporting clients."

Joe ran his hand across the soft leather of the seats and looked out the window. "I was kidding, Pa. I guess I knew that his life is different now, but I'm just beginning to see how different." He continued looking outside. "I can't get over the look of these buildings. They're brick and stone and old. There's nothing like this back home." He thought back to what he'd known all his life. "Well maybe there are a few older buildings in San Francisco and a little more in St. Louis and New Orleans, but nothing like this. I saw the cornerstone on a church we passed with the date, 1795, and a big tombstone in the cemetery next to it had 1689 chiseled on it."

"I forget that you've never been this far east, Joseph. If you pay attention, you'll see buildings and places you learned about in your history lessons at school, and there are even older structures tucked in where you don't readily see them."

"I got a question, Pa," Hoss ventured as he shifted in his seat. "What do I say to Adam when we get there?"

"You can offer your condolences; say you're sorry for his loss," Ben suggested. "Our presence says more than our words ever can. And of course we'll offer to help in any way he needs us."

"How long will we stay?" Joe laughed at his own question. "I know you're going to say that we just got here, but I notice you didn't get round-trip tickets."

"I'll stay as long as he needs me." The worried father turned towards the window. "I won't know that until we're here a while. If need be, you two can head home before me." What he didn't share was that he hoped to stay through the reading of the will so that he'd know what Adam would face as his future. "For now, we'll plan on staying a couple of weeks. We'll see what your brother needs from us and get a little exploring in before we head back." He nodded to his youngest. "It would be a shame to leave without you seeing the heritage here."

Adam was escorting his clients to the door when his family walked in. He offered hasty goodbyes to the people he was with and made his way across the room. "You all are a sight for sore eyes!" He shook hands and accepted condolences with a nod and a pat on Hoss and Joe's back as he offered a quiet, "Thank you."

Ben looked around the office and asked, "Have you let people go, son? It seems like there are fewer men than last time."

"I've actually hired four new engineers and three crews in the last year, but we're doing things differently. Instead of having everyone at this office, I had portable offices built on low wagon beds that we move to the construction sites. It's the way they did it in England. The main engineer can work on-site so he's there to address day-to-day problems. They all seem to like it."

Joe nodded. "I suppose it keeps construction foremen from having to run back here every time they have a question."

Adam beamed at his youngest brother. "That was my reasoning too." He slapped Joe's back. "You're really becoming a businessman, little brother."

"I think that's the same reason at least one of us Cartwrights goes along on the bigger cattle drives," Hoss added. "We can make decisions and the men don't need to worry when there's a problem or change of plans."

They'd moved into Adam's office as he complimented Hoss's reasoning. He turned to wink at his father before saying, "If you two want to leave the ranch and work in the city, I'll hire you both to oversee our worksites." His brothers were protesting a change to city life when a rumble from Hoss's stomach turned the conversation to finding a place for lunch. "There's a nice café down the block," Adam offered as he straightened his desk. "Let me talk to a few people and we'll be on our way."

The youngest Cartwright gave the office a thorough looking over once his brother left. "This is some place, and I saw the sign on the door proclaiming him the Director and General Manager."

Ben nodded. "Don't forget he's earned this. Knowing the Wadsworth family helped get his foot in the door, but Frank made him prove himself before he put him in charge. I'd imagine you two would be just as productive if you ever decided to follow a different career than ranching."

"That's because of you, Pa," Hoss said as he smiled. "You always made us work hard and finish what we started." He blushed to a rosy pink as he considered that his compliment sounded more like a complaint. "I don't mean you worked us too hard, just that we learned from you."

Adam stuck his head inside the door. "I'm all set; let's head out before Hoss faints from lack of nourishment."

A quick glance toward Frank's old office on the way out, made Ben stop to ask, "When did you redo this?"

A look washed across Adam's face, revealing the exhaustion and pain he'd kept hidden so far. He took his family inside to show them the space that had housed his former boss. "It was Frank's idea to make a change, and we came up with a conference room. He said that the others wouldn't look to me as the boss if his office remained his 'empty tomb'." He ran his hand along the smooth, shiny surface of the table and smiled. "This was Frank's desk. It was so big that he put it in place and then built his office enclosure around it. I had cabinetmakers remove the top, finish the raw edges, and then add table legs. They used some of the remaining wood on the matching chairs, and the drawers were used for that cabinet on the far side of the room."

"Did Frank like what you did?" Ben asked with a wary look?

"He appreciated that I didn't get rid of his things, and said he still felt at home when he used this space during his visits. I think he wished he'd made a conference room years back after seeing how well it worked for meetings and proposal presentations. Frank dreaded innovation and change as much as other long-time businessmen, but he didn't let that stop him. He'd grumble and grouse and tell me a hundred times a day that he didn't think something would work. Yet that never stopped him from taking credit for it when all went well." He sniffed and swallowed hard. "It's inconceivable that he won't come storming into the work area with some new job he'd heard about, demanding that we come up with an idea no one else would have. He was loud, stubborn and opinionated. But he was also fair, reasonable and always current with trends and opportunities. Everyone trusted him and loved working here."

Joe coughed as he suppressed a laugh. "I know you're suffering a big loss, Adam, but I also think I know why you got along so well with Frank Wadsworth." Adam's brows were pinched in question when he looked across the table at his brother. "Doesn't that description sound a lot like someone else we all know?"

"I agree with Joe," Hoss offered. "Ya might have left the ranch, but you settled in here with another man who was just like Pa."

Lunch got off to a quiet start with each Cartwright feeling his way back into a table of four again. Before long the jabs were flying, and for an hour Adam was able to forget the burden he was carrying. It was as they lingered over coffee that the conversation returned to the present necessities.

"You wrote that the memorial service is next Thursday," Ben began. "So what do you need us to do in the meantime?"

Adam's smile was sly. "I was hoping you'd ask. We'll relax a little over the weekend while you get to know my little ones and recover from the trip. Come Monday, I'd like you to work for me at the jobsites."

Ben eyebrows narrowed as he asked, "What's your main concern with the crews?"

"It's not the crews I'm worried about." He looked around the table. "I've already talked to them. Then there's the fact that their wages are a lot higher than at other places, so I think they'll take their chances with us. But…that doesn't mean other companies won't start whispering in their ears, trying to lure them away or make them distrust us."

"Whadaya think they'll do?" Hoss asked

"They'll start by sending people to our sites to spread rumors about the company falling apart. You'll be my eyes and ears out there." He looked toward his brothers. "You two can work with the men if you're inclined to do that, and Pa, I'll put you on the newest sites where there's still a lot of ground work going on." He gave his family a minute to consider their assignments. "Are you all game?"

"If it means I don't have to keep dressin' in fancy duds, I'll be happy as pie to do it," Hoss offered eagerly.

"I agree with Hoss." Joe grinned. "Are any of these sites somewhere that pretty girls walk by?"

"This is Boston, Joe. Pretty girls are always walking by." Adam nodded toward the window to make his point as a lovely blonde strolled past with a parasol on her shoulder to protect her fair skin from the sun.

Joe's grin widened. "I might just like this city better than I thought."

Adam brought the group back to business. "The crews will be off next Thursday, and I'll visit each group on Friday during lunch to thank them for sticking with us.

"Will you be joined by anyone from the Wadsworth family?" The question was posed by Ben.

"I invited them, but no one has expressed interest."

"I didn't get the feeling that either Frank or Marian had a large family."

"You're right, Pa. They were both only children. There were aunts and uncles on both sides, but they're all gone now, leaving only cousins."

"What do ya think the heirs will do with what they get?" Hoss asked.

Adam looked down and pushed his plate away as he propped his elbows on the table. "I've considered this, and I'm to the point where I'd bet that the heir will sell it all off. None of the cousins I know would have the background to operate a firm like Wadsworth Engineering."

Silence hovered over the table like a Boston fog as the three visitors calculated the personal and emotional toll this would take on Adam. Ben looked over and saw the anguish on his son's face and realized he had to change the subject.

"We didn't bring clothes for the service, figuring you'd recommend a tailor who could help us." He stopped for a moment as Adam started to focus again. "I imagine we should get going on that since Hoss's size will be a concern."

"I'd say you're right." Adam pulled a note pad from his pocket along with a pencil. "I'll write down the store name and a description of what you'll need. Jimmy can take you there now, and let the staff get started on your suits while I finish up a few details for next week. We'll all head home once you're done."

"How fancy are we gonna have to get?" Hoss asked as he looked like he'd bitten into something sour.

"This is going to be more dressy than you're used to for a funeral, but the proper attire for this won't be that different than what you've had to wear to formal functions in San Francisco." He began making a list on the pad in front of him. "You'll need a regular dark suit, but it doesn't need to be black; a white shirt, black tie, and dark gloves. My suit will have a longer vest, and cutaway coat4*, but you can be less formal."

"Sounds almost like a tuxedo." Joe giggled but was glared into silence by his father.

"The cutaway doesn't have tails, or it would be. Oh, and you'll need dark hats with black hatbands too." He wrote more on the paper before handing it off to his father. "This should cover it, but I'm sure Emelio at the haberdashery will remember what I've forgotten. They're used to handling clothing for big funerals, so he should have something for all of you." He chewed his lip before finishing his coffee. "I know we could get away with wearing a white shirt and a string tie for funerals back home, but Frank is a legend in this city, and I want to honor him as he'd expect and deserves."

Hoss was the first to respond. "Heck, Adam, I'd dress in a tutu if that's what you needed me to do. And besides, I think I'll look kinda like a gentleman decked out like that."

Ben sent his two younger sons on ahead during the walk back to the office so he could address a point with his eldest. "I know it's premature for this, but I think talking about it now might relieve some pressure."

"What's up, Pa? You sound so serious."

"I saw how much this business means to you, and how painful it will be having someone who knows nothing about it, sell it or make a mess of it."

Adam's voice held a resigned sadness. "There's not much I can do if it happens."

"Perhaps there is. Why don't you buy it?"

Adam's loud laugh made Hoss and Joe turn around, but they continued walking when viewing their father's "butt-out" look.

"I'm well-set, Pa. I had some good investments back in Virginia City that paid off nicely, and both Melinda and I are doing well. I'm sure you remember that Frank gave us an endowment for our wedding that keeps us from fearing the uncertainties of life, but the business is worth so much right now I can't make a bid on it without putting us in serious debt. It would be like someone trying to buy the Ponderosa operation outright. Someone could bid on the land or the timber or cattle businesses, but the total is pretty hefty for any one person to take on."

"What if the Ponderosa made you a loan on your share?" Ben let the offer float as he watched his son's face for a reaction. "Just because you aren't working there, doesn't mean you aren't still a shareholder. You helped me make it as profitable as it is today, and I would gladly free up some cash to help you out." He grinned as he looked over at Adam. "We could become a conglomerate."

Adam took his father's arm and stopped him. "Thank you, Pa. It's a generous offer, and typical of you. You'd risk everything to make one of us happy and have a better life. But I've thought this through, and if I'm replaced or the business is sold; I'll move on. The unknown can bring some wonderful surprises."

He smiled at his son. "Moving back to Boston and marrying Melinda worked out pretty well, so you might be right."

"It did." He returned the smile. "I can't imagine any circumstance where you'd lose the Ponderosa, yet if that happened, you would build again, even it meant starting from the ground up. It's what Cartwrights do; it what we've always done. And I will be fine." He stepped forward and wrapped his father in an embrace. "I've missed, you, Pa; more than I can say, and I'm so grateful…and happy that you're here."

Six – Later in the Day

Melinda was in the yard playing with her children when the coach dropped off the four Cartwrights. She hurried over, and after a kiss and hug for each of the "guests," she pulled her father-in-law aside to speak privately. "I am so happy you all came. Adam has been as controlled as you probably imagined he'd be, but having you here will take his mind off his bigger troubles. He's probably told you of his plans for you already."

Ben nodded as he squeezed Melinda's hand. "That's why we're here. Well, that and it will give me a chance to get to know my grandchildren."

Hoss and Joe had remained in the yard while Adam had gone to get his children for introductions. AJ had disappeared into the house as soon as he'd seen his uncles arrive, and Elizabeth had run to her father, and was hiding behind him, holding tightly to his leg. He was about to call for his son, when the boy bounded out the back door carrying the wooden barn and box of hand-carved animals that Hoss had given him when he'd come to welcome Adam and his family back from England.5* The boy flew past his father and stopped in front of his uncle.

"See," he said as he raised the barn up for Hoss's inspection. "I still have everything you made for me. I know the names of all the horses, and Daddy's told me what everything was used for because I was just a baby when you gave them to me and didn't remember."

"Whoa there, little feller," Hoss said as he scooped the youngster into his arms. "Let me get a big hug first, and introduce you to your other uncle, and then we'll go over each thing you got in that box."

AJ gave Ben a tight hug and said he "remembered him a little" from the last visit, and shook Joe's hand before reaching up to hug him too.

"Daddy tells me stories all the time about you and Hoss and him from when you was kids, Uncle Joe. He calls you Little Joe when he does that. How come you're just Joe now?"

"I grew up, I guess," Joe explained as he laughed. "Your grandpa did warn me that you'd be very grown up for a boy who's just six, and he was right."

"Would you play with the Ponderosa barn with Uncle Hoss and me?"

"In a little while, I promise. First I need to meet your great grandpa." Joe pointed to the back of the house next door where an older man and woman were making their way down the porch steps."

Adam made the introductions between Abel, Sadie and Little Joe, and then stepped back to pry his daughter from his leg. "It's time for you to meet my family, Lizzy. I know you're shy but you have to do this."

Elizabeth grabbed onto her father's leg more tightly with one arm as she used her other one to make an exaggerated point toward Ben. She motioned for her father to bend down, and whispered, "He's the man in the picture."

"What picture?" Adam had asked for a picture of his Ponderosa family, but they hadn't gotten it done yet.

"The one with Grandma Elizabeth…that's over there." She pointed toward the window of the room that had been Elizabeth and Ben's when they'd lived with Abel. "She told me to look at that picture last week, and not to be afraid of the man when I saw him."

His daughter's revelation about talking to her dead grandmother didn't even raise Adam's eyebrow. He was used to the communication that went on between his mother and his children.5* It had been happening ever since AJ had nearly drowned some years earlier at the hands of a crazy woman, and it had continued ever since. Both Elizabeth and AJ told him things from time-to-time that they had no way of knowing, and he'd come to accept that there were forces at work that he wasn't privy to.

Abel, Sadie and Melinda talked with the family for a short time, and then begged their leave: the women to finish supper preparations, and Abel to "rest." Adam knew they'd gone to give the four men and the two newest Cartwrights a chance to get to know each other.

AJ had convinced his uncles to go with him to the benches in the yard, leaving Adam to introduce his daughter to her grandfather. He lifted her onto his hip, gave her a kiss on the cheek and stepped toward his father. "May I introduce Princess Elizabeth Cartwright."

She looked at her grandfather and smiled before burying her head in her father's shoulder.

Ben took her hand and said, "I am honored to be in the presence of Cartwright royalty. I think you're the prettiest princess I've ever seen."

She looked up again, and finally let go to reach toward the man she'd come to know in the picture next door. "Thank you, Grandpa Ben," she said softly when she was fully settled on his arm and holding onto his shoulders. She cupped her hands around his ear and whispered, "Grandma Elizabeth said I'd like you, and I do."

He wasn't sure what to think about her comment, but decided he could ask his son later, and embraced the little girl tightly.

Adam stood by, waiting to see if his daughter would remain comfortable with the new man in her life. Once he saw her whisper in his father's ear, he knew she'd be fine. It wasn't that she wasn't boisterous or didn't make her feelings known at full volume most times, but the sweet, intimate moments where she'd cup her hands and speak directly to him always swelled his heart.

She giggled at the hug and said, "Daddy said you were a bear, and that was a good bear hug."

Ben eyed his son over the child's head, and received a pink-cheeked shrug of "I'll explain later," in response.

She wasn't finished. "He said you liked kittens too. I like kittens. Mommy says I'm too little for a kitten, but I'm this many years." She held up three fingers. "So I am old!"

The proud father waited a few more minutes to assure that his daughter was comfortable, and then walked toward the trio going over the Ponderosa animals. He didn't intrude on the conversation, and kept an eye on the other two as they walked hand-in-hand around the yard examining each colored leaf and late-blooming flower. He could hear Elizabeth chattering about whatever came to mind, while his father added his, "Unhuh," or "That's interesting."

When they finished their tour, Ben brought Elizabeth over to the others, and she walked over to the box of animals to pull out the Cochise horse.

Hoss had been sitting but stood when his father came over, and Adam could see Elizabeth's eyes widen while her mouth dropped open as she looked up at the giant of a man in front of her. He was about to intervene before she started to cry or ran away, but he stopped his advance when Hoss knelt next to her.

"Whatcha got in yer hand, sweetheart?" He asked gently. She opened it to reveal the painted carving. "Is that yer favorite one?" She nodded. "Can you tell me why you like him more'n all the rest?"

"It's got spots." The fear was gone. "I told Daddy I want a pony with spots but he says there aren't no ponies like this in Masta-choots."

"Massachusetts," Adam provided at Hoss's questioning look.

"Yer daddy's probably right," Hoss continued. "That one's name is Cochise; he's a painted Indian pony. I don't suppose there's a lot of that breed this far East." He grabbed Joe's sleeve and made him join him at eye level with the little girl. "Yer uncle Joe rides that pony." He reached into the box and pulled out the black horse. "I ride this one. You probably know his name is Chubby." He watched as Elizabeth's eyes shifted back and forth from him to Joe. "By the way, my name's Hoss, and this is Joe. We're yer daddy's brother, just like AJ is yours. That makes us yer uncles."

Joe reached for her hand and she let him take it. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Elizabeth. I've waited a long time for this, and I'm so happy." He brought her tiny hand to his lips and kissed it softly.

"I think I like yous uncles," she said sincerely while nodding. The motion made her long, brown curls bounce. "I always wanted to meet you for a long, long, time too."

Adam watched in wonder as his daughter left her hand in Joe's and then made him stand up as she said he should come see her tea party. They walked off together while Hoss returned his attention to AJ. It seemed clear that his children had chosen the uncle they felt most comfortable being with. He turned when he felt an arm encircle his shoulders from behind and he smiled at his father.

"They are beautiful children, son. AJ looks just like you when you were little, and while Elizabeth has your eyes…and the same pout you had at her age, she resembles Melinda more overall. I'm so glad to be here."

"The feeling is mutual. Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness."6* He chuckled. "This is a wonderful day amid many horrific ones. Thank you, again."

Dinner was a happy occasion with Hoss proclaiming it the best meal he'd ever eaten, making Sadie blush and smile from ear-to-ear. Jillian took the children for baths and bedtime preparations after they finished eating, and the adults remained at the table reminiscing about the Wadsworths. Adam shared his memories of getting to know Marian, Frank Sr. and Frank Jr, when he'd first come to Boston, and Melinda reminded them how much Frank and Marian had helped when she'd been kidnapped shortly before their wedding, and with the other crises that had befallen them over the years.7* Ben spoke last, telling the others about getting to know the other man who'd called Adam, "son".

"I could tell that he saw you as one of his own," he said, focusing on his eldest. "You asked me once if it bothered me that you two were as close as you were. It did…at first, until I got to know Frank."

The conversation turned to questions about Melinda's family. "My parents moved to North Carolina, thanks to Frank. He found Papa a good job at an exporting company in Charlotte, and he's doing well there. He hadn't planned to work this late in life, but with my former brother-in-law squandering their savings on fake investments, he had no other choice but to keep at it for a while."

"Will they come for the funeral?" Hoss asked. "I'd like to see your folks again."

"My mother has sciatica, Hoss," Melinda explained. "She is regretful in not attending, but the trip would be too painful. They are both heartbroken over the situation."

"Sam and Miranda will be over tomorrow night, though." Adam saw his youngest brother's questioning look at the mention of these names. "Miranda is Melinda's younger sister, Joe. She was married to the scoundrel involved in the money scam, but she's married to Sam Greene now. Sam started as our physician, but he became a good friend too, and got to know Miranda through us. Pa and Hoss got to know them on their previous visit." He addressed the group again. "They've been here almost every day since this started, but thought this should be a Cartwright night."

The conversation was interrupted as AJ and Elizabeth came running in from the kitchen. Jillian had allowed them to make the trip between the two houses in their slippers and robes to say goodnight.

Adam corralled them. "Go around and give everyone a hug and kiss and then I'll take you home and tuck you in."

AJ shifted from foot-to-foot until he finally blurted out, "We'd kind'a like Uncle Hoss and Uncle Joe to read us stories and tuck us tonight, Daddy." He focused his dark, hazel eyes on his father's face. "If that's all right with you."

A silent nod and smile sent the youngsters to grab their favorite uncle's hand and pull them along.

Joe glanced over his shoulder with a look of panic. "What do I do to tuck them in, big brother?"

"They'll tell you what they need." He observed his youngest brother's look of uncertainty. "It'll be fun, Joe. And it'll get you ready for when you have your own little ones."

When the room quieted again, Melinda stretched and looked toward Sadie. "I suppose we should go do the dishes before it gets any later."

Ben's offer to help was refused as the women gathered the remaining things from the table and retreated to the kitchen, closing the door behind them. Sadie winked at her co-conspirator. "I imagine those three will have things to talk about, and this will give them time."

Abel and his son-in-law lit their pipes while Adam stretched out on the divan, sticking a pillow behind his back and angling himself into the corner.

Ben opened the discussion. "Are you in charge of the other Wadsworth business too now, son?

"There isn't any other Wadsworth business, Pa. You knew that Frank sold the one in England, and I wrote a letter telling you about Frankie's firm, but it's still in my desk." He grinned at his father. "I'm sorry I couldn't tell you as things were happening, but Frank insisted on complete confidentiality when it came to money."

"I understand that. We don't tell anyone what we're thinking about doing with the ranch either." His face screwed up as he continued. "I remember you saying that Frank had tried to save the London office, but had decided against it when he realized Wadsworth had lost its chance to stay a leader in the market there." He leaned back and took a puff on his pipe. "I was telling your brothers on the trip about how quickly inventions are making our lives better, and most of that comes from advances in engineering."

"I agree, Pa. We can't stay on top of every new engineering process at Wadsworth, so we've concentrated on harbor construction. We got out ahead of the other U.S, companies in that area, and are doing very well for it." He grinned before adding, "I should probably tell you that Frank wasn't too upset over the loss in England. He'd found a new love there, and had already bought into a horse-racing syndicate that owned a number of derby winners and contenders. Frank just recently sold the house in London too, and planned to find a country home with stables when they returned after their trip to France.

"So, what made them sell the Frisco business?" Ben asked.

Adam blew out a deep breath and chewed his lip as he thought about how he could explain what had happened. "You remember that Frankie had a difficult time in the engineering program, but he got through with a little help. His heart was never in it though, yet he thought he'd like it more if he went to San Francisco after college and could prove himself there—a little further away from Frank's influence…and interference. I tried to talk him into staying in Boston for a year to get some actual engineering under his belt, and learn more about managing his own business, but he wouldn't hear of it. Frankie had been around his father's office his whole life, but I don't think he ever paid attention to all the things that went into making it a success."

"I always thought he was doing all right with his own firm. Was I wrong?" Ben asked thoughtfully.

Adam shook his head. "The first few years did go well, but that was because Frank had purchased an existing company with great contracts on the books and good engineers working on some wonderful projects like the Sacramento harbor refit." He shook his head again. "The strange thing is that in helping Frankie's group with the embarcadero, I got my feet wet in waterway engineering and liked it. Frankie, on the other hand, tired of the long process and vowed never to bid anything related to water again. It was more than that though. I could see that that Frankie was in over his head from early on. The first year I went there for the winter, we were busy with existing work, but I could see trouble as soon as Frankie had to start getting his own contracts.

"Frank told me that he wanted Frankie to be an engineer so he'd have a better idea how the whole process worked," Ben commented. "I'm getting the feeling that this didn't help as much as he'd hoped it would."

Adam's eyes lit up as he leaned forward. "You know how much I love drawing plans, doing the math, and then watching something come together from those numbers and lines on a sheet of paper. But even though Frankie could do that reasonably well, he did it grudgingly and just copied what every other engineer was doing in San Francisco."

"What would he have rather been doing?"

"That was the problem. He didn't know that either. Frank wasn't an engineer, but he was a superb businessman. His son didn't like chasing a deal any more than he did drawing up plans. I saw that Frankie's firm wasn't doing well when the year-end reports came through, but Frank always had an excuse for it. I only learned the truth of how bad it had gotten after it was sold, and I asked Frank why he'd let it go for little more than the cost of the office building."

Abel leaned forward, setting his pipe on the stand, and asked, "Did he give you an honest answer?"

"He said it had gotten bad, but he'd never wanted me to worry that I'd make Frankie feel ashamed for failing while the Boston office was growing in an unprecedented fashion. But Frank also said he should have known that I would never hold back just to save a friend some embarrassment—even if the friend was Frank's son. He finally let me see the ledgers. They showed that the only years Frankie had made a profit were those when I'd gone over during the winter to help."

"From what you've said, that probably didn't surprise you as much as Frank thought it might." The comment from Ben was punctuated by a chuckle.

Adam nodded. "You're right, Pa. The first time I went along with him to present a proposal, I presented the plan I'd drawn, and the client was excited about the project. But instead of getting the contract signed, Frankie let the conversation drift into chit-chat. When it came time to leave, the owner backed away, saying he'd think about it." He nodded at his father and then looked back at his grandfather. "Pa taught me that you always finish the deal first. I tried to teach Frankie by doing both the presentation and the negotiations for rest of the sales calls that year, but he had no spirit for it. I went on sales calls alone the other winters I was there, and sold a year's worth of work in a couple months for him."

A lopsided smile turned Ben's lips. "But then you went East…." He paused before saying, "I'm surprised Frank let that go on. You've been here for eight years already. That's a lot of time to keep propping up a failing business,"

Adam shrugged. "Frank made Frankie hire a salesman a few years ago. The books indicated that this addition helped them meet costs, but they still weren't turning a profit. Frank was beginning to complain openly about the situation, even going so far as to say that he'd given Frankie many chances to get things going right. He was considering what to do next when something happened to change everything."

Both older men leaned forward in expectation as Abel asked, "Did this happen early last spring? I remember the young man coming home for the first time in years, and you seemed distracted during his visit."

His grandson drew a deep breath as he closed his eyes. "I was in the unenviable position of being between the two Franks. Although he didn't give me the details of what was happening, Frank's less than favorable comments about his son's management were increasing. On the other hand, Frankie's unhappiness and frustration often poured out in the pages of his letters to me. His greatest fear was in disappointing his father, even while resenting that he felt pressured to follow in Frank's footsteps. He regularly asked me for business advice, but he never followed through."

Ben grinned. "So you're saying they both talked to you, but not to each other."

"That's it, Pa. And I wasn't going to broker this between father and son. It was something they had to figure out."

"I get it, son. Frankie wasn't a child, and neither of them should have needed an envoy."

Adam grinned at his father, "I know how hard it was to tell you I was leaving to come back here, but I knew you'd understand. The situation between the two Franks came to a head last March when Frank saw an article in the San Francisco Chronicle about a raid on a bar known for its ties to the worst criminal elements in the Bay area. Frankie's name was listed as one of those taken into custody. I've never seen Frank so angry, and he demanded his son come home for a 'summit'."

"I'm sure that was not a pleasant visit for either of them," Ben offered sadly.

"Marian said they mostly shouted at each other at first. I think Frank biggest concern was that his son's actions could have started gossip that might have made it to Boston. It sounds harsh, but this site was bringing in the income for the Wadsworth household and I'm sure we propped Frankie's bottom line when he didn't break even too."

"He was upset that Frankie's behavior exposed the family business to scandal." Ben commented as he shook his head again. "I can understand Frank's fear…and anger. It can take minutes to topple what years of sweat and hardship built. I'm sure you recall the lectures I gave you and your brothers about how what any one of you did in a moment of disregard could come back at all of us and the Ponderosa. Yet that never meant I wouldn't have stood behind you if had gotten into trouble. I imagine Frank felt the same way."

"The sad thing is that after the shouting, the two Franks finally were honest with each other. Frankie admitted that he just couldn't make himself like what he was doing. Then he told Frank about an opportunity he'd looked into."

"What kind of opportunity?" Ben asked as he walked behind his son and placed his hand on Adam's shoulder.

"Frankie wanted to move to Paris and invest in a restaurant called, Le Grand VéFour. He'd researched its financials, and the owners were looking for a partner to enlarge the operation rather than to merely keep the place afloat. Frank didn't know a thing about restaurant operation, but he was intrigued by the possible diversification. He agreed to take a look at the place with Frankie during their vacation, and sent him back to Frisco to close things out there."

"So Frank was all right with his son's new ambitions?" Ben asked.

Adam chuckled softly. "Frank wasn't sure about it, but he wanted his son to have chance to try something that he didn't feel was expected of him. So Frank did what Frank did best; he helped clear up the legal problems in Frisco, sold the business, and moved forward. As it got closer to their time to meet in Paris, Frank began to brag about his son becoming a partner in a restaurant with patrons like Victor Hugo."

Silence lingered for a moment until Ben posed another question. "It does seem that they'd worked out their differences. I'm glad for that." He stopped to think. "I have another question. When I was here last time, waiting for your ship from England to arrive, Frank told me that he never sailed with all his family on the same ship. He had a fear of everyone perishing if the ship went down. Now it seems prophetic."

"Frank and Marian sailed alone to England, Pa. Frankie took the train to New York and sailed from there, and stayed with his sister in Cherbourg until they all met on the coast for the pleasure sail. I suppose Frank didn't see any threat in a short cruise around the Channel Islands. They had planned to hug the coastlines."

Adam felt in his pockets and laughed. "I thought I'd tucked a letter in this jacket, but it must have been a different one. The days are running together. Anyway, I received the initial report from an investigator who examined the wreckage. He feels the anchor rode may have been set too steep, and the anchor pulled loose when the winds picked up overnight.

"Not leaving enough slack in the anchor line is a common mistake with pleasure boat crews," Abel offered. "They tend to think the shallow water is all one depth, and I've seen where a boat comes loose and rides the swells to deeper water."

"The inspector said that's exactly what happened, Grandfather, but then the anchor snagged on a reef and the jagged rocks split a board in the hull. The letter said there was little damage; just enough to flood the starboard bow below the staterooms where the Wadsworths were sleeping. The winds increased throughout the night and a heavy gust turned the vessel onto the flooded side. The five crew members survived because they'd slept on deck. They tried to save the Wadsworths, but the sloop flipped into deeper water, eliminating their escape from above or below." He sighed again as the imagery of the family's panic in their fruitless situation overwhelmed him. When he looked at his father he saw the same look of misery.

Ben had retaken his seat during the story and leaned forward, bracing his arms on his knees. "I'm sure that Frank and Marian faced their fate with the same strength they used in life." He yawned unexpectedly and loudly, before laughing at himself. "I guess the long day is catching up to me."

Adam laughed too after he and Abel yawned in reaction to his Ben. He stood and announced. "I better go rescue my brothers. Those children of mine will keep them telling stories until midnight if I don't put a stop to it." He winked over his shoulder at his father. "And since you two look like you need to turn in, I'll send them over here to tuck you in next."

He shook Abel's hand in parting and gave a silent head nod for his father to accompany him outside. They stood on the sidewalk as he pulled his handkerchief from his pocket and blew his nose. "I know that Frank thought he and Frankie were like you and me. But they weren't in a most important way. Frankie was so worried about failing to become his father's son that he forgot to make a life for himself. At least they finally talked things through, and Frank could assure Frankie that the thing he wanted most was for his son to be happy. I said earlier that it was hard to tell you I was leaving, but only because I knew I'd miss you as much as you would miss me. I always knew that you'd support me no matter what I decided to do."

***
Ben had gone back and asked Melinda to meet Adam in the yard so they could head to their house together.

She saw Adam sitting on the bench between the two houses when she exited, and she hurried to sit next to him; slipping her hand into his. "What did you three talk about?"

"I told him about Frankie's troubles with the business, and the plans he and Frank were making when this happened. Pa and Frank were a lot alike, but I'm glad my father knew that the strongest parents let their children find their own way, even when it diverges from theirs."

The pair looked toward their house when they heard a barrage of laughter and giggles coming from the open, second-story window. Adam shook off his thoughts and laughed too. "Sounds like all hands are still on deck up there."

Melinda stood and grabbed his hand to pull him up. "I don't suppose Jillian can control your brothers and our children when they're working together to delay bedtime."

Adam and Melinda snuck into the house, and shrugged at one other as they observed the mess of utensils scattered on the kitchen table. They were silent as they ascended the steps. He remained outside the open door to the nursery while she tiptoed to their room to grab her hand-mirror.

Adam held the device in the doorway at an angle where they could get a view inside and he almost dropped it as he stifled his laughter at what they saw in the reflection. Their children were jumping on Elizabeth's bed as they cheered their favorite uncles on in a fencing match—using wooden spoons as epees. "Well at least this explains the mess in the kitchen," he whispered.

Joe was telling the story of the time that Hoss had been challenged to a duel by a man who'd been so good with a blade that he'd been able to slice the buttons off his brother's shirt without damaging the fabric beneath. Hoss countered that he was better now "Cuz he'd practiced some" since then.

Adam nearly laughed out loud when Hoss yelled at Joe, "Hold still, dangit. How'm I supposed to get at ya if you keep movin' so fast." The duel ended with a loud thud, probably indicating that Hoss had tripped during a lunge.

Melinda and Adam knew they were eavesdropping, but continued to listen without shame, imagining the actions that corresponded to the words.

"Yer parents will be comin' home shortly and they won't be happy if you two sprouts are still up." Hoss addressed the children in a serious tone between grunts as he got himself upright.

"But we need one more story," AJ whined while his sister's bouncing made the springs on her bed squeal at the same high pitch she was using to agree with her brother's indignation.

Adam nudged Melinda a little further down the hall as he heard his brothers approach the door.

Joe lowered his voice. "How are we gonna end this, Hoss? We've told them at least 20 stories, and they're still wide awake. It's after nine already."

"We just gotta be firm," Hoss replied. They moved away from the door and Hoss directed his next comment to the two bed-jumpers. "We done told as many stories as we're gonna. We gotta save some for the rest of the nights we'll be here. So I'm gonna ask you to get into your own beds and we'll tuck you in." When there was no action, he added, "Now!"

Hoss's demand was met with further protest, and Adam could envision the pout on Lizzy's face and the petulant set of AJ's lips. He knew they were over-tired and keyed up by their uncles' performances…and that it was time to get things under control. He winked at Melinda and then stepped into the doorway. As he suspected, Hoss and Joe's backs were toward him, but his youngsters could see his stance, the look on his face, and his finger pointing at their beds. Their eyes grew large and round as the jumping came to an instant halt and they dove under the covers of their respective cots.

Hoss nudged Joe's shoulder. "See, I told ya all we had to do was be firm." But both uncles turned toward the door after Lizzy peeked out from under her blanket and pointed toward the reason for her sudden cooperation.

"I see that look still strikes the fear of God into all who receive it," Joe laughed.

"You'd better believe it. And," he paused as Melinda joined him in walking toward their children, "I think these…sprouts…need to apologize to their uncles for not listening."

Melinda continued. "I know you are having a special, wonderful night, but you two forgot that your uncles were in charge. Now, I'd like to hear those apologies and then say goodnight."

Elizabeth slipped out of bed and ran to Joe, jumping up to have him hold her. She took his face in her hands and said, "I don't think I like you anymore, Uncle Joe. I do like you, very, very much. I'm sorry I didn't listen." She waited while AJ gave his apologies to Hoss, and then they switched uncles.

"Why don't you two head downstairs, and put these away." Adam handed over the spoons he'd grabbed from the dresser. "Then find some glasses. Pa and Abel are already turning in, but we'll have quick drink to settle your nerves before we call it a night." Once his brothers were out of the room, he sat on the edge of his daughter's bed while Melinda did the same on AJ's. "It seems you two had a good day."

"I like how Uncle Hoss knows so much about animals." AJ sat up to hug his mother. "He's the smartest man I ever knew."

Adam's eyes widened just a bit with the compliment to his middle brother. He brought Elizabeth to his lap. "And what about you? Do you think your uncle Hoss is the smartest man ever?"

The little girl shook her head. "He's nice, but you're the smartest man, Daddy. Uncle Joe is nice and tells funny stories…about you."

He squeezed Lizzy tightly as he grimaced with the thought of the some of the stories his brother might have told. "Goodnight my angel." He tucked her under the covers again and kissed her head before exchanging places with Melinda and saying goodnight to his son. "I'm glad you like your Uncle Hoss. He's a man who's worthy of your admiration." After listening to their children's prayers, they did another round of hugs and kisses, and bid Jillian goodnight before heading downstairs.

"You two look played out," Melinda teased as she completed the last step into the parlor. "Certainly two small children couldn't take more out of you than a herd of cattle."

"You'd think that'd be true," Joe answered. "But it's easier to lasso steers than it is to convince a little one of something."

"Yup," Adam laughed. "I've tried lassoing them, and it just makes them laugh harder."

The "uncles" talked for a while about the train trip and the clothes they'd ordered earlier while everyone sipped on scotch or brandy until their eyelids became too heavy to keep open.

The Boston Cartwrights had remodeled their home a few years ago, even adding a few feet of space at the back, but the house itself was only a little larger than Abel's. It was big enough for them, but with Jillian living there too, there were no spare rooms for company. Adam and Melinda had decided it would be simplest to have AJ sleep in the nursery with his sister, and let their uncles share AJ's room. A day bed in the little boy's room allowed the two men to sleep comfortably in their own space. Ben was staying with Abel since they'd have more to talk about.

Melinda awoke around midnight and ran her hand across the empty space next to her, instinctively knowing that Adam wasn't there. Slipping into her robe, she walked to the window and checked to make sure he wasn't in the garden again. Not seeing him there, she made an adjustment to her clothing and headed down to where she knew she'd find him.

Adam looked up as his wife entered his office. "I'm sorry if I disturbed you. I couldn't sleep."

"I know, Adam. You haven't slept much since this all started. I'm worried for you."

He sat back and sighed deeply. "It's not that I think about what happened to them, although there have been a few nightmares about that. It's more that I want this all to run smoothly: both the memorial service and the transition. Since I was asked to plan the service, I have the uneasy feeling that Frank didn't make bequests beyond Frankie and Amelia…and there is no designated heir. It'll be a free-for-all if that's true, and I don't want their memory tainted by a lengthy, ugly legal brawl."

She walked behind his chair and wrapped her arms around him, laying her head atop his. "You've got the service planned perfectly, and there's not much you can do about the rest. They'll have to fight it out. Your job is to keep the business running. The men from your crews and their families are depending on that."

"You're right." He looked back at her. "Didn't we start our day with this same conversation about how right you are?"

She turned his chair around to face her. "I think I might be right about something else. You need to relax and forget the world for a little while." She pulled his robe apart and ran her finger down his bare chest, stopping at the drawstring bow that held up the pajama pants he wore to bed. He'd always hated nightshirts and had slept with nothing on before they'd had children. That had all changed when unexpected bedroom intrusions became the norm, and this new fashion from England left his torso free of encumbering clothing while covering the necessities.

He took her hand, bringing it to his lips. "I should work a little longer."

"We haven't been intimate since this started, Adam. I haven't pushed you because I knew you needed time to work through the loss. But I need you, and I think you need me even more."

"But my brothers are upstairs, and Hoss might come down for a snack. He only ate a whole chicken tonight. He'll be hungry soon." He winked to take the sting from his reluctance.

Melinda walked to the door and locked it before returning to kneel in front of him. "We've learned to be quiet because of having a nanny and children across the hall. You and I have made love nearly every day of our marriage and you're wound so tightly right now that you need a release before you spring apart."

He moved his head side-to-side, even as he let her untie the string at his waist and set his body blazing with her gentle touch. "But…"

"But nothing," she said quietly. "I saw you outside grieving on your own. You aren't making love to me because it's hard for you to let another person see what you're going through. Yet you've allowed me to see the darkness of your sorrow before, so don't hold back this time."

He groaned softly as she stroked his thighs and then moved slowly back to increase his arousal. He stood and lifted her to him, carrying her to the couch where he laid her down tenderly, and quickly disrobed. A pull on her sash revealed that she'd come downstairs with this in mind, and he began breathing heavily as he moved atop her and kissed her with the passion he'd been holding back along with his pain. He placed kisses in all the secret places that excited her, and blew a soft, warm breath across the moisture his lips left behind. He continued caressing and kissing her until she pulled him toward her with urgency. He moved gently at first and then let his need surge.

Melinda's hair had fallen over her face and he brushed it aside as he smiled down at her. "Thank you," he whispered. "It seems you were right again."

Her satisfied look turned to one of disappointment as he stood and redressed quickly before tugging her robe back into place around her, and tying it shut. So that's it she thought with a grain of disappointment grinding in her emotions like a grain of sand in a shoe. He's going to walk me to the door and send me away so he can continue to work. She was so deep in thought that she yipped in surprise when he lifted her from the sofa and carried her to the door. She was still wondering if he would deposit her outside after he got the key turned and opened the door, but she began to smile, and kissed his cheek when the trip continued up the steps and into their room.

He made love to her again, this time letting the passion build slowly. He remained quiet when they finished, and Melinda turned onto her side to stroke his cheek as she'd always done to show her love. She drew her hand back and brought her fingertip to her tongue to confirm the saltiness of his tears. His armor had yielded, and she gathered him to her, stroking his hair and whispering of her love for him and the family they had both lost. He let his grief flow silently until he drifted to sleep in her arms.

End, Part 1. Please continue to Part 2 see the Cartwrights working together as they always do, even if it's not on the Ponderosa!

*The Assomption sloop was built in Cherbourg (Cotentin, Normandy region, France) belonging to an owner of this city, and was wrecked on the coast of Guernsey (Channel Islands, UK) on September25, 1872.

**Matthew 25:14-22

***In other stories in the One Step Close series, I've had Adam travel in a private Pullman car that the Wadsworths had purchased. I picture it as similar to the car Agents West and Gordon used in the Wild Wild West series.

4*The following excerpt is taken from an article about Victorian funeral Etiquette. After describing the dark, drab satin and crape dresses that women had to wear for varying periods of time following a death, it says: Men had it easy – they simply wore their usual dark suits along with black gloves, hatbands and cravats. This was all set out in books such as The Queen and Cassell Manual. The memorial service for the Wadsworth was to be far more formal because of Frank's position in society.

5* This set of toys was a gift to AJ when Hoss and Ben ventured to Boston in the story of this series called, One Step Closer – From Two to Three, A Family. In that story, Hoss saves AJ from drowning when they both end up in the river after the child is kidnapped by a crazy woman. AJ later reveals to his father and mother that his "grandma in the water" pushed him toward Hoss to save him. They're able to figure out that he was speaking of Adam's mother, Elizabeth. In this story, there will be references to Adam's children speaking to Grandma Elizabeth, and that follows the same vein.

6* Psalm 30:11

7* The Boston Cartwrights faced several threats from a family name Casteletti in three of the stories in this series. Frank and Marian along with Ben, and later, Ben and Hoss worked together to help Adam and Melinda. You can read the entire saga in the following stories: Once Step Closer – Til Death Do Us Part; One Step Closer – Two Hearts Broken; One Step Closer – From Two to Three, A Family.