March 2020.
AFTERMATH.
1 Solitary memories..
Joe Cartwright sat in the elderly, blue velvet upholstered chair.
This had been his father's chair for as long as he could remember. For many years Ben Cartwright would sit there, pipe at hand, a newspaper folded to one side as he regularly chastised his youngest son for some small, and realistically minor misdemeanor. He'd then pick up his pipe, puff for a moment or two, then send the offending son to his room to contemplate the error of his ways. The enforced solitude rarely had the desired effect, as it was almost guaranteed that said son would be in trouble the following day or day after. Such was the life of a young Joseph Cartwright!
Now, so many years later, Joe sat quietly. His gaze never leaving the cold stone fireplace that dominated the spacious room. Cold ashes lay in the hearth, unburnt logs still in the dog basket.
Aside from Joe, only Hop Sing was in residence at the ranch house of the Ponderosa. So many things had changed in so short a space of time. Candy was off somewhere in Texas, Joe didn't really have any idea where or why, just that Candy had things he wanted to do. Their agreement had always been, 'Candy wanted to go, then he would leave, probably to return at some later date'. Ben had agreed to this a good few years before and, Candy had wandered in, and out of the Ponderosa life a number of times over the following years. There had never been a contract between them, just trust and faith he would return when he had the calling.
Joe sighed, his heart heavy, and in truth, breaking, this wasn't the life he had anticipated in his youth. In fact it wasn't the life he had anticipated some three years before.
God, how it had changed, and not for the best, he sat, in silence, not a sound could be heard other than the steady tick tock as his mother's grandfather clock marked the passing of seconds and minutes. Nary a sound escaped from the kitchen, Hop Sing so obviously absent along with the comforting sounds he made when preparing each meal for his young boss.
Joe wiped the tears from his eyes, sniffed, then rose. It was just too easy to pour a whiskey or brandy, there was no one to question his motive or need. He reached for the brandy decanter and a fresh glass, poured a large measure then returned to his father's chair. He nursed the brandy, swished it round in the cut crystal glass then sighed again, tears fresh in his emerald green eyes. Joe looked at the drink held so close to his lips, the perfume filling his senses. He sipped, just a small taster of the potent alcohol, then tipped the glass and downed it in one. He frowned, the greying curly hair falling into his eyes, the tears still coursing down his cheeks.
"I'm so sorry Pa.."the only words he could utter before refilling the glass.
The second brandy was followed swiftly by a third, then a forth. Joe stared at decanter, almost empty, how many had he worked his way through in so short a time?
He breathed in deeply, his head aching from the effect of the alcohol and lack of food. How many hours was it since he'd eaten a halfway decent meal...24 maybe 36 hours he couldn't remember. Hop Sing placed food in front of him at every meal time, and, every meal time it returned to the kitchen untouched and fit only for the pigs. Even Hop Sing had given up on him!
Joe lay back in the blue velvet chair, now, even months after his father's death, he could smell the sweet tobacco his father had favoured, and the bay rum after shave he had used for as long as Joe could recall.
Tears started afresh at the memories that poured into his mind. Grief was more than first and foremost in his mind, it was all encompassing. Slowly, through the brandy sodden memories, he brought to mind the loss of his beloved brother Hoss only two years before. He and his Pa had struggled to come to terms with the sudden death of the gentle giant character of the Ponderosa. For Joe, Hoss was his everything, best friend, playmate, confidante, the big brother he adored and turned to for guidance in everything.
But Hoss was gone!
Giving his life to save others, as only Hoss would, a hero in anyone's reckoning. Though for Joe and Ben it was an irreplaceable loss. Joe had supported his father through these tragic circumstances without thought to his own loss or grief, he'd survived...or so he thought.
Hoss was gone.
2 Interlude.
Alice had come along at such an opportune moment. Joe had been lost, vulnerable , without his best friend and big brother. Alice had been the balm to heal a broken heart, so gentle and sweet, loving him for the person he was.
No one could say it was a match made in heaven, but she balanced Joe's wild ways, his mercurial temper and most of all, she eased the pain of losing Hoss. She loved him!
Alice had been 8 months pregnant with their child when she was attacked, raped and murdered then incinerated at the little yellow and white house that Joe had built for them. A small place in the midst of a field full of spring flowers and bird song. A home he had lovingly laboured over to give his wife everything she had ever dreamt of. Near enough to the ranch house for meals and socialising but far enough for privacy. She had loved their home, made it somewhere safe for them both, a refuge from the day to day running of the ranch.
When, after only a month or so of married life, she had announced they would have a new addition to the family, Joe had been beyond excited, to say he was ecstatic would have been an understatement. He grew up over night! Suddenly he realised he was going to be a father, to have the responsibility of a new life. A child. His and Alice's child!
The pain of Hoss' passing eased at the thought of his own child. Ben had welcomed the news with a new vigour to his life, he found the spring in his step that had been missing for so long. Another Cartwright to add to the family, be it boy or girl, he would welcome this new life with open arms and with all the love in his heart.
Alice died.
After the heinous crime that claimed Joe's wife and unborn child, the Ponderosa became a place of sadness and grief. Joe could not rest whilst Alice's killers roamed free. Within days of Dr. Martin declaring the serious burns Joe had sustained trying to reach his wife had healed sufficiently, Joe began the preparations for hunting down the killers. His father had pleaded with him to stay, let the law deal with it, but Joe, still in the depths of raw grief, and seeking retribution, ignored his father's pleas. Though still not in full good health, Joe entrusted his Father's well being and care to the other constant in his life, Hop Sing, the one person he trusted to be at his Father's side what ever the outcome of his search for Alice's killers. The ranch was left in the safe hands of Hank, their trusted foreman of many years standing, who was as knowledgeable as Ben or Joe in all aspects of Ponderosa management.
Joe followed many virtually non existent trails, some heading nowhere, others leading to more clues and information. After a couple of months searching, he finally had located the men guilty of his beloved wife's murder. Quite how he was going to deal with them hadn't really been an issue until he had them within sight, now he was torn between killing them outright or trying to take them to the nearest Sheriff and hoping they would stand trial and pay the price of murder by hanging. His conscience kept him awake at night as he tried to reconcile himself to becoming a murderer such as they.
Somewhere, somehow, the choice was taken from Joe's hands. On the day he had decided that he would send the killers to Hell with bullets to their heads, he'd been sat by a extinguished fire, cold coffee in hand waiting for the killers to make their move. A small sound alerted him to movement behind and a soft nicker from his own horse. He twisted slightly to see the grinning face of Candy break through the tree cover and move towards him.
"I though you might need a hand gettin' this lot back to the Sheriff.." he'd stated in a low whisper, "I'm ready when you are!"
The four men didn't know how close they had come to dying that morning. Together Joe and Candy had overpowered them without a shot being fired. They'd tied them to their horses then took them into the nearest town for justice to be served. From capture to hanging took less than a week, so certain and condemning was the evidence the killers had kept from Joe's home, that the Judge took only moments to issue their death sentences, and the hangings were carried out the following day.
Alice was gone.
3 Continuance.
The room grew colder as Joe sat eyes transfixed on the hearth. He knew he needed to sleep, but as of late he had barely slept more than an hour or so any night. He rose, albeit unsteadily, crossed to the downstairs guest room and opened the door. The chill struck him as the cold air flooded out and he shivered slightly. He was already cold so the chilly room didn't really bother him. Looking round in the gloom, he could see the dirty clothes he'd flung to one side the previous evening, the sheets and quilt were pulled back ready for him to collapse into when he'd had enough to drink. The curtains and blinds pulled across to keep any day light from shining through. Wearily he ran a hand through the long curly hair, once it had been a rich chestnut colour, now it changed from grey to silver depending on the light.
" I know Pa, I look like some river boat gambler..." he muttered to no one in particular then flopped onto the top of the bed.
Pa was gone. Hoss was gone. Alice and their child were gone.
3 Tragedy.
Life had continued after Alice's death. Candy had stayed on at the ranch, had become Joe's right hand man and his best friend. Joe seemed to have climbed out of his trough of depression, and appeared to be getting on with his life as best he could. Ben seemed to have aged rapidly after Alice's death, though he still played a very active part in the day to day running of the Ponderosa. The main responsibility seemed to rest with Joe, who was now making all the major decisions, though he consulted with his father on any large monetary expenditure.
Things appeared to be going so well that Ben had sent Joe and Candy off on a trip to Sacramento supposedly to do a bit of business, but in reality to give Joe the opportunity to get away from the ranch for a few days.
Five days into their trip, both Joe and Candy were sitting relaxing over a couple of beers in one of the more salubrious saloons in the centre of Sacramento. Both were tired from the late night they'd enjoyed the previous evening, now they were relaxing over a beer and contemplating their journey home in two days. Truth be told, both were quite happy thinking of returning to the Ponderosa.
Twenty four hours later, both young men fell from the stage coach as it arrived in Virginia City. Dr. Martin and Sheriff Coffee stood waiting as it shuddered to a stop in a cloud of dust and the door flung open. Joe Cartwright was first to set foot on the boardwalk, Candy only seconds behind him, then the other passengers alighted, wondering at the haste with which the two men had escaped the confines of the coach.
"Joe...here..." a voice called across the noise. Joe turned to see Doctor Paul Martin stood aside Roy Coffee, both moved towards Joe.
Words were spoken softly, for Joe's ears only, Paul Martin's arm resting gently on Joe's shoulder.
"What happened..." Joe had murmured, his face grey and drained.
"A stroke I think..." Paul had replied, " he was at home when it happened."
"But he was ..." Joe had answered. "I want to see my Pa!"
The Doctor led Joe, and Candy, to his offices. There in the back room an oil lamp burnt low, shadows danced in the corners. On a long low table stood a light hued wooden box, a coffin. Candles burnt at the head and foot, white fabric padded the sides. Central to this lay the body of Ben Cartwright.
Joe had stood in silence. He could not believe this was his beloved father. The man he loved more than life itself. The man who promised he would never leave him. The man who had been his rock through out his life. But it was true. Ben Cartwright had passed to his Heavenly reward without his son at his side. He'd been alone, without family to comfort him on his way. Joe stood, he touched the clasped hands, gasped at the coldness. Reached to brush the white hair from his father's brow, then leant over to kiss the cold forehead.
"Forgive me Pa" he whispered, " I should have been here for you."
Candy reached out to his friend, his arm round his shoulders,
" Come on Joe, let's get some sleep, then come back in the morning. There's lot to be done." Gently, very gently, Candy had led Joe from the room, Dr. Martin slipped a small packet into Candy's free hand then nodded.
"Get some rest Joe, I'll be here all night. I'll see you in the morning!"
Pa was gone.
4 Continuance.
Joe closed his eyes, the brandy was working it's magic. Slowly his breathing became deeper and regular as he slipped into an drunken sleep. He rolled to one side, his head resting on his arm, the other hanging over the edge of the bed. Even in sleep he shivered with the cold from the unheated room.
The clock chimed the hours as Joe slept. The house remained silent and cold.
Outside, the yard hands had settled the various animals, Joe's horse, Cochise, had been groomed and fed then turned into the loose box along side Buck. Both mounts nickered softly to each other before settling for the coming night. The porch lights were lit, a beacon for travellers and residents alike. Hank tapped on the front door then stepped inside into the darkening room.
"Joe..." he called softly..."Joe?" He glanced round the vast space, shocked there wasn't a fire roaring in the hearth. He knew Joe was home, he'd just groomed Cochise, but where was he? He knew Joe had closed the upper floor of the house off. Joe couldn't face going upstairs let alone sleep up there on his own. He moved across to the guest room to the left of the front door, tapped then pushed it open. In the dim light he could see the slim shape laying across the bed, from the door he could smell the brandy Joe had consumed.
" OK Boss, " he spoke quietly, hoping not to waken Joe, " let's get you covered up."
Joe was soon covered with a blanket and quilt. A basin set to one side in case he should need it, and water set on the night stand.
" I'll be in the other room if'n you need me..." Hank pulled the door up then went to get comfortable in the living room. Seeing his breath in the cold of the room, he decided first and foremost to light a fire in the hearth, if only to take the chill off the room, then to spark up the kitchen stove and water boiler in preparation for the morning, certain his boss would be looking for a hot bath to clean up some.
Mid morning saw Hop Sing arrived back at the Ponderosa, he climbed down from the buggy and began to empty the goods he'd bought out onto the front porch. The noise had Hank come out from the bunk house,
" Hey Hop Sing, " he greeted, "got a minute?" The Chinese man trotted across to the foreman, gave a little bow then raised his eyebrows,
" What's wrong Mr Hank?"
"Joe...he was drunk last night...I'm worried about him.."
Side by side they made their way into the house,
" He's in here..."Hank pointed to the bedroom to the side.
"He not go upstairs now..." Hop Sing said softly as he pushed the door open.
The odour of vomit and brandy filled the air. In a few steps and moments, the curtains were pulled back, the windows flung open and light flooded the room. Hop Sing turned to the bed and the young man sprawled across it, he pointed to the bowl which Hank swiftly removed to deal with.
Joe groaned as the light pierced his eyes then shifted away from the light.
"What you do...lil Joe...you wake up have coffee, feel better..."
Joe just groaned a second time, waking up was just about the last thing he wanted.
"Go away..." was all he could manage before nausea overtook his stomach, and he lost what ever else was left inside.
Hop Sing wiped Joe's forehead, he could see the sadness in the green eyes, the lack of the bright lights that would normally flash and sparkle with mischief.
"Go have a bath, feel better," he urged, "then I fix light food for sick stomach."
Hank reappeared, with both helping Joe to stand, they guided him to the bathroom.
"The house was cold last night, I took the liberty of lighting the fires Hop Sing..." Hank spoke as they helped Joe discard his dirty and smelly clothing.
The tub filled quickly with hot water, Hop Sing poured in some dried herbs, then giving Joe some balance, helped him into the water. Hank stepped into the kitchen, to give Joe some privacy, had found the coffee pot and set it to boil. Hop Sing soon joined him.
" I should not have gone to Carson..." he muttered, his voice low, "not good leave Joe alone ..."
Hank nodded, " He was out with the herd in the mornin', didn't bed Cochise down or anythin' dunno when he got back here. He's not coping well, wish Candy were here, he can talk him round."
Hank swallowed the hot coffee, "Thanks Hop Sing, best I get on, if you need me, just hollah."
Joe sat at the kitchen table, a plate of scrambled eggs and a mug of coffee in front of him, " Not hungry.." he complained.
"Eat!" He was ordered as his friend sat facing him across the wooden surface.
Slowly the food made it's way from plate to mouth, dark eyes downcast as he worked his way through the meal, no words spoken.
They had spent many hours sitting at this table during the preceding months, eating, talking or just sitting. Joe had forsaken the dining room table for his meals, preferring to sit with Hop Sing in the warmth and comfort of the kitchen, at least he wasn't alone. They would talk of everyday things, the ranch, the hands but never the loss. They would converse in English then sometimes in Chinese, sometimes a mix of both, but neither could speak of that which was hurting them both so badly.
Joe looked up, the shadows beneath his eyes as dark as bruises, the tears still so very close to the surface. He rubbed his right hand across his face then through the still damp tangled mass of hair.
"I'm sorry Hop Sing..."
"No need apologise to me...I understand you, like father..." Hop Sing moved to Joe's side, placed a hand on his shoulder, "I miss them too."
"I don't know if I can do this anymore," Joe shook his head, "When I think...when I ...I can't breath...everything hurts so much. I know Pa...would want me to carry on but I..." words tumbled forth, "this isn't how it was supposed to be. Hoss shouldn't have died. Alice shouldn't have died. Pa shouldn't have died. Adam should be here...I..." Tears fell, he shook his head trying to clear his thoughts. "I'm sorry, I think I need to sleep..."
Hop Sing reached out as Joe passed him, "You are not alone!" and pulled the younger man into a hug. Instinctively Joe's arms went round the small man's shoulders and he clung to him like a drowning man holding a life line.
"You will never be alone, I am here!" Hop Sing whispered into Joe's hair as he held him close, "Go sleep lil Joe, get some rest..."
Telegrams flew around the world, England, Ireland, Italy, Australia, all of the addresses Adam had made contact from in the past. Joe didn't hold out much hope of tracing his eldest and only surviving brother, but he had to try.
Ben Cartwright's will had been read. After the loss of Hoss he'd made everything over to Joe, bar a certain amount of money for Adam, should he ever return. All the rest had been left to Joe, the ranch, investments, holdings and money. He had become a very wealthy young man. In truth, he would have swapped the whole estate to have his family back at his side, but as he tried to accept, that would never happen.
Candy was still doing whatever down in Texas, letters arrived occasionally giving Joe some idea of what was happening, but no mention was ever made of when Candy might return. In turn Joe was becoming more insular and remote from life outside of the ranch.
He would sit for hours up at the grave site on the shore above Lake Tahoe talking to his family, or just gazing out over the vast expanse of azure water, his grief still all consuming.
By some stroke of good fortune there had never been a repeat of the episode with bottle of brandy. Yes, Joe would still drink in an attempt to numb his pain, but he soon found it wasn't helping, in fact he felt much worse after. Plus he was ashamed of the state he had got into, and really didn't want to repeat it. Brandy and whiskey disappeared from the oak dresser, probably hidden in Horsing's private quarters, Joe still had a beer or glass of wine, but even that had lost it's appeal.
Daily, Joe would force himself to rise, rarely eating breakfast before allocating the day's tasks to his foreman Hank. He'd watch the hands disperse to their various destinations then decide what would be his project for the day. Out of preference he would ride off somewhere he could work alone. Fence mending, a task he had hated as a youth, now held a fascination, he could be away all day without seeing a soul. Checking and resupplying the line shacks, a boring job in the past now gave him days of solitude. Some days he would just ride out to check the wild horses, or the outlying cattle, quite content to be alone with his thoughts. Hop Sing continued to prepare food that wouldn't get eaten and continued to worry about his young boss who appeared to be fading away before his eyes. Some evenings he would watch the younger man gazing away into nowhere, often hardly a word would be spoken. When asked if he could help, Hop Sing would be told no, Joe then would disappear to the downstairs bedroom, leaving Hop Sing to his own resources.
The days merged together. There was no difference between weekday or Sunday, everyday followed the same basic routine. Joe no longer attended Church in Virginia City, never invited anyone out for Sunday lunch and rarely went into town. Many people couldn't remember the last time they had laid eyes on Joe Cartwright, and came up with some wild reasons for his noticeable absence. Had he left the Ponderosa, had he remarried, or perhaps gone away like his eldest brother, was he also dead but the Chinese servant was hiding it? Speculation was rife and gossip spread quickly. Dr. Martin and the Sheriff gave up trying to put the tales to rest, it was easier to just let them gossip away. If Joe did venture in, it would be solely for business, no stopping for a beer or a game of cards, nor visiting one of his friends, male or female. The local single girls were all very disappointed at the distinct lack of interest from the handsome young man who had once been the town Lothario.
The spring cattle drive came around, 1000 head of finest Ponderosa beef had to be delivered south west into California. Hank chose the hands to ride with him, plus took on a few extra to make up the numbers. Hop Sing would be running the chuck wagon and Joe would be Bossing the drive. A handful of men would remain at the ranch to keep things ticking over, while the lumber side of things carried on under the watchful eye of Amos Freeman, Joe's timber boss. The mine workings were well handled by another very experienced employee, Gus Masters, so Joe was happy to leave for the three weeks or so it would take to get the cattle to market and then return.
Hop Sing had the chuck wagon prepared and packed ready for the Saturday morning departure. Bed rolls, spare clothes, medical supplies packed away along side tins, flour and various food stuffs. He would be well prepared for all eventualities!
Friday afternoon found Joe in Virginia City, he had a few chores to complete before heading out around dawn the following morning. First stop was the bank, he knew he would need some cash as well as bank drafts and also to put in place sufficient funds for paying the remaining hands their wages. Amos and Gus would be taking on this responsibility in his absence. Next was a visit to Dr Martin's, mostly just social but Joe felt he needed to reassure the Doctor, and for that matter, Sheriff Coffee, that he was okay but going to be missing for a while.
"You look too thin Joe," Dr. Martin informed him, "are you eating properly?" Joe had shrugged, "Kinda..." The Doctor glared at him, " Eat young man, you're going to be pushing yourself hard. I'm telling you this as your Doctor and...as your Godfather. Understood?"
Joe rolled his eyes, "I'm fine, don't worry! See you in a few weeks. Any problems just wire me at the Cattleman's Hotel."
The Sheriff had similar words for the young man before waving him off on the road out of town.
Dawn came early on the Ponderosa, by the time the sun had risen over the tops of the Ponderosa Pines, Joe, Hank and the hands urged and nudged the dozing cattle into a steady walk on their way to California. Hop Sing followed a short distance behind, already planning their first meal on the trail.
For once, it seemed all was on the cattle drive's side. Fair weather made the days easier to work. Plentiful grazing for the cattle as they made their way south and west. The hands all pulling together rather than having fall outs and arguments. Not wanting to jinx anything, not a word was spoken of their continuing good fortune, but all were aware things could change in the twinkling of an eye.
Hop Sing was keeping them all well fed, bar Joe who still only ate the smallest amounts, barely enough to keep him going in Hop Sing's opinion, but he seemed to be coming out of the deep depression he'd been in at the outset of the drive.
"Evenin' Joe, " Hank greeted Joe as he rode up alongside his boss at the rear of the herd, "d'ya reckon we'll be at the stock yards tomorrow?"
Joe pushed his hat back on his curls, " Hope so Hank, gettin" mighty fed up with sleeping on the floor now." Hank chuckled softly not wanting to spook the cattle meandering along in front and beside their mounts. " Me too, gettin' too old for this lark!"
"Should be there by midday at this rate..." Hank nodded his agreement then eased his mount away into the cluster of cattle, " see you later.."
Another night passed in peace, men slept whilst others kept watch, all rotating guard during the hours of darkness, keeping the cattle calm and quiet until ready to continue at daybreak.
Dawn came too early for Joe, he'd been on watch around midnight then had failed to sleep at all. Now he was grateful for the strong hot coffee Hop Sing handed him before the other hands began to surface. He yawned, scratched his head then ran his free hand through his hair. " I'm sure looking forward to having a bath when I get into town!" He mused, " I smell as bad as the cows and the horses!" Hop Sing grinned at his boss then nodded in agreement before going back to his task of preparing breakfast for them all.
Knowing they were so close to the end of the trail gave the hands a reason to be cheerful, they perked up at the thought of no more cattle to babysit, having a bath and soft bed, Maybe even a pretty girl's company for while, along with a beer or two, and of course, the fact they would have some money in their pockets. Joe too was anticipating the hot bath and soft bed as much as his work force, and was spurred on by just that thought. Though, the thought of the bank draft he would be depositing also put a smile on his face.
Late afternoon found the herd safely contained in the pens adjacent to the railway spur. The hands all paid off and raring to go for a bath, a beer and a girl, though not necessarily in that order. Hop Sing would get things organised, clean clothes for Joe, any telegrams sent by hands to their families, the chuck wagon restocked and stored for the time they remained in the town, then he intended to visit family members. He asked Joe if he wanted any company for the first day or so, but was happy to be told to go join his family. Should any problems arise, he or Hank could be easily found.
Not too much later found Joe, Hank and all the hands stood at the bar of the Starr Saloon, beers in hand and food ordered. Rumour had it that the saloon had belonged to Belle Starr, quite an infamous lady of the time, though the truth of that was quite doubtful, and none of the hands were that interested. Joe stood the first couple of rounds for his men. Cartwright cattle drives were always "dry" affairs so this opportunity to have a few beers on the Boss was not to be missed. It was a Cartwright tradition for as long as Joe could remember, so he willingly fulfilled his role. Before leaving for his own chance to get some rest, he ordered another round of drinks and paid for the men's meals, slipped Hank a few more bills, then wished them all a good evening. Though he did warn them he really didn't want to have to bail anyone out of jail, if possible. That bought a few smiles and comments from some of the older men, who delighted in reminding Joe of the times he'd been bailed out in his youth. Joe took their teasing with good humour, waved goodbye then strolled out into the evening air...
Aftermath.
5 A Chance Encounter.
Content knowing the bank draft was safely deposited in the care of The First National Bank, Joe made his way to The Cattleman's Hotel. Rather than take one of the handsome cabs that plied the streets, he decided to walk. After weeks in the saddle, a little normal exercise seemed a good idea. He knew the location of the hotel, so set off at an easy pace taking in the sights as he walked. The last time he'd been in San Francisco had been a few years back, along with Hoss and his Pa. That time they'd stayed at The Grand, on Ben's insistence. It had been a good trip, father and sons enjoying their time after yet another cattle drive.
Joe shook his head as the memories came flooding back, it had been their last trip together. Joe and Hoss had fitted in trip to a burlesque show not far from the Barbary Coast, and away from the watchful eye of their father. They'd giggled their way through the slightly risqué performances, both blushing at some of the dances. It had been a happy time, though their father's comments when told of their exploits, were a little cutting to say the least. The following morning he had greeted them with smiles, and an apology, admitting he had done much the same on one or two visits to the big city.
Miles away, lost in his thoughts, Joe swung round a corner and promptly tripped over a young woman who staggered back from their sudden and unexpected encounter.
" I'm so sorry Ma'am..." he stuttered his apology, " are you ok?"
She looked at the young man twisting his hat in concern, then smiled at him,
"I think so...thank you. I wasn't looking where I was going..."
" Can I help you get to where ever you are going?" Joe heard himself ask. She looked surprised at his offer.
"Why?"
"Ummm, well, I ummm...it's not safe a lady on her own here...you know..."
She smiled at his discomfort.
"Actually, I would appreciate an escort Mr..."
" Cartwright, Joe Cartwright at your service Ma'am!"
"Well Mr Cartwright...I need to find a hotel, nothing too expensive and to be truthful I haven't a clue where to start!" the young woman replied somewhat embarrassed.
" Please, call me Joe, Miss...?"
"Rebekah Solomons, Mrs Rebekah Solomons" She held her hand out in formal greeting, "I'm pleased to meet you Joe Cartwright!"
"I'm staying at the Cattleman's Hotel, I've been told it's quite nice, I'm sure we can get you a room there an' it's not far from here. Is Mr Solomons going to join you?" Joe asked, he was a little surprised she was alone in the city as she had a husband.
" No, I'm travelling alone." was all she offered in reply as they started to stroll along the side walk. Five minutes later they stopped at the ornate entry to the said hotel.
Joe, ever the gentleman opened the door and ushered Rebekah into the foyer. "Wait here an' I'll arrange a room for you." he accompanied her to a rather plush blue velvet sofa then had her sit. Crossing to the desk he stopped a young man in a red uniform.
"Can I order tea and coffee with some sandwiches for the lady and myself?" He asked indicating the young woman sat to one side.
"Certainly Sir," came the reply, "five minutes?" Joe nodded then turned to the reception desk and yet another young man in a similar coloured suit.
"You've a reservation for me, name of Cartwright?"
The man on the desk looked Joe up and down, a look of distaste obvious on his face. Joe scowled at the man then glanced down at his clothes, he'd forgotten just how dusty and dirty he looked, he probably didn't smell too fresh either. "Damn," he thought " I bet she thinks I'm a right mess, best I explain pronto!"
"Ah yes, Joseph Cartwright, you appear to be booked into the Presidential Suite," again he took a slow, disparaging look at Joe, " we would appreciate your paying before your stay."
" I would like a separate room for the lady, Mrs Solomons, please add it to my bill, I'll pay when I check out!"
"I'm afraid it's the Owner's policy to have payment upfront..." the desk clerk intoned. "There is an adjoining suite if that would suit the lady." Joe nodded, took out a hand full of notes, swiftly checked how much he held, then placed it all on the desk.
"You can tell me when that runs out. Who is the Manager of this place, I would like to speak with him?"
"The owner is Mr Archibald Devere, I'm afraid he will not be here until later this evening." Joe raised his eyebrows at this, though passed no comment. Took the keys and returned to Mrs Solomons. The Bell Boy had returned with the refreshments and was speaking to Mrs Solomons.
"Did you get me a Room?" she asked Joe in a worried tone.
"Yes, you're next door to me so quite safe, do you have any other luggage to be collected?"
"I've a small trunk at the Railway Station."
Joe quickly instructed the Bell Boy to organise someone to run to the Station to collect her case and then his saddle bags from the adjoining livery stable. He was hoping that Hop Sing would be bringing his spare clothes later that evening after he'd had a cousin clean and press them.
They spent a short time enjoying the refreshments, Joe tried to stifle a yawn but failed miserably, grinned and apologised.
" Seems I keep saying sorry, Mrs Solomons, I don't mean to be rude but I've been up since I don't know when an' really need a bath and some sleep."
" Joe, please, my name is Rebekah. Shall we go up and see what the rooms are like, I've finished my tea and I'd also like to freshen up somewhat!"
Taking the "Rising Room" to the third floor, Joe escorted Rebekah along to their rooms, he opened the door wide to the "First Lady Suite", then stepped back to permit her to enter.
Rebekah stepped in to the room, stopped just inside the door, turned to look at Joe,
" Are you sure this is the right room?" she asked, "It's beautiful...but far too expensive for me..."
"This is what he gave me, make your self at home. I'm going to order something to eat for later, would you like to join me?"
"That would be very nice Joe, thank you, I'll have what ever you decide to have."
Joe pulled out his timepiece, checked the time, replaced it in his jacket pocket, "Eight o'clock ok for you? It'll give you time to have a rest. I'm going to order steak with mash an' vegetables."
"I'm looking forward to it, will you come get me before it arrives please?"
"Will do, see you later!"
With that Joe closed the door to Rebekah's room and went to his own. He was equally surprised on opening the door. The room was magnificent, blue embossed wall paper, blue and white paint work, deep blue velvet drapes with matching furniture. He whistled as he took in the room, "Wow Pa, " he muttered, "You certainly did this place out well..."
Closing the door he walked further into the room, stopped and turned round and surveyed his surroundings, his eyebrows rising up into his hair. Next he ventured into the bedroom, yet another beautifully furnished room in cream and gold. He flung his jacket onto the bed, then noticed his clean clothes hung over a chair.
"Good ol' Hop Sing." He thought smiling to himself, " Can always rely on Hop Sing!"
Next he opened the door to the bathroom, another whistle emerged as he took in the big porcelain tub, a smaller basin and the china bowled toilet. Soft fluffy towels hung over a delicately carved wooden rack while a white bathrobe hung by the door. Joe turned the hot tap then quickly divested himself of his clothes, stood at the bath side until had filled to his satisfaction and was of a comfortable temperature. Then with a sign of contentment, he eased his weary body into the steaming water.
"Bliss...sheer bliss..." he murmured to himself and leant back into the heat. Slowly he cleansed himself, ducking under to rinse the soap from his hair and shoulders then laid back, closed his eyes and just relaxed. Next door, in the adjoining bathroom Rebekah was doing likewise. Even though she had lived comfortably in the past, she had never had the luxury of a bathroom such as this, soon she too was, with eyes closed, relaxing in the hot water.
Eight o'clock came too quickly. Although Joe hadn't managed to get any sleep, he did feel more refreshed, probably due to fact he had dozed a while in the bath. Now, he was dressed in a clean dark tan shirt, clean tan pants and his better pair of boots. He'd shaved, and had somehow managed to tame the long dark curls into some semblance of order. Doing a quick visual check of the room, and finding no dirty socks or clothes lurking about, Joe tapped lightly on the connecting door. The key turned and Rebekah stood in the entry. Her long dark hair was hanging loose down her back. The dress she wore was in cream with flower sprigs dotted about. The décolleté was low enough to be interesting, without revealing too much, though she did have a shawl round her shoulders.
"Not too early am I?" Joe asked.
" No, not at all," she responded, " has the food arrived ?"
"About ten minutes, are you hungry, I know I am?"
They sat in comfortable silence whilst the young waiter set the table located by the window. He placed their meals down then turned to open and pour the ruby red wine. Joe sipped a small amount, nodded approval then signalled the young man to pour.
"Can I be of further service Sir?" he asked.
"Not at the moment thank you," Joe responded with a smile, " but I would like to speak with you later when you collect these, if that is possible?"
" Of course Sir, I'll return in half hour or so with the dessert of the day if that suits?" Again Joe nodded, then the young man left the room as silently as he had entered. Rebekah raised an eyebrow questioning Joe's comments.
"Something isn't right here, I need to find out a few things. It's nothing for you to worry about so let's enjoy this before it gets cold."
Aftermath
6 Dirty Dealings.
Joe and Rebekah sat in front of the low burning log fire, both nursed a balloon glass of brandy enjoying the quiet and warmth of the room. Joe occasional frowned as he wrestled with the problems he faced with the hotel. He knew nothing about the running of such an establishment and was rather wary of getting too deeply involved. He sighed, then took another swig of the brandy.
"Why don't you tell me about it Joe?" Rebekah asked gently, "sometimes an outsider can see a clearer picture."
"I don't really know my self..." he admitted, "I think there is something very wrong here but I don't know what to do..."
She smiled at the young man opposite, "I suggest you start at the beginning and we'll go from there!"
By the light of the fire and a solitary lamp Joe explained all to the young woman he had joined forces with. The sudden revelation that his father owned this hotel, and that he had installed a manager who now appeared to have disappeared. Money was missing, the accounts were completely adrift from the projections made the year previous. On top of all the business dealings that were amiss, the fact that Devere's was masquerading as the owner of the hotel and The Ponderosa really baffled Joe.
"Well," he started, after sharing all with Rebekah, " what do you think?"
"Certainly dirty dealings are afoot..." she said with a smile.
His eyebrows shot up, "Dirty dealings are afoot...you sound like an English detective...!"
"I love English literature! Now, this is what I think you need to do, I take it you do want my advice that is?"
"Anything you can suggest my dear..Watson.." he teased.
"We need all your paperwork appertaining to the hotel, your ownership of it, your father's will and the transfer of it to you. Anything that helps you prove it is yours, also, any paper work from contracts or agreements made about staffing, accounts, anything to help prove fraud from this Devere character. Oh, most of all you need to have your attorney here to deal with it, as soon as he can get here!" Rebekah sat back then sipped her drink. Joe looked at her, a wry grin on his face,
'Yes Ma'am," he agreed, "you sound just like my eldest brother..."
"Sorry Joe, I should explain, my late husband was an attorney, I often helped him with his cases, I learnt a lot about fraud and such like!"
"I'll send a cable to Hiram Woods tomorrow morning, he can be here by the end of the week with any luck." Joe answered, "d'you think we could do some investigating before he gets here?"
"We would have to be very careful, don't want to let them know you're on to something, that could make things difficult."
Joe laughed, "I've always made things difficult, why change the habit of a lifetime!"
Rebekah tilted her head to one side as she looked at the cowboy sat opposite, a knowing smile on her lips, "Why am I not surprised at that Joseph Cartwright? To think I barely know you and I've already learnt that much!"
Joe grinned back, "My Pa n brothers always said my middle name was trouble, I guess they were right all along!"
The fancy clock on the mantle shelf struck 10.00, resounding boings sounding round the room.
"Guess I should be going to bed," Rebekah announced stifling a yawn, "It's been a long day."
!Would you like another brandy before retiring?" Joe asked, raising the brandy decanter and motioning a small wave with it.
"No thank you Joe, I'm just about ready to sleep..." She stood then smoothed the front of her dress. Joe replaced the decanter on the small drum table then stood beside his guest.
"I'll send a cable tomorrow morning then we just wait. Will you join me in the restaurant for breakfast, or did you have other plans?"
"Breakfast would be lovely, thank you..."
"I'll tap on the door at nine then, perhaps we can go exploring tomorrow if you would like to spend some time with me?"
Rebekah smiled at Joe, leant forward and very gently kissed his cheek,
"I think that would be very nice Joseph. Until tomorrow!" She then opened the adjoining door and slipped into her suite. The door closed with an audible click as she turned the key in the lock. Again Joe grinned to himself, this could prove to be a very interesting few days.
He hadn't made any approach to a girl or woman since he had lost Alice. It wasn't that he didn't desire female company or to have another lasting relationship, it was because...in truth he didn't really know why. Plenty of young women had made overtures to him in the months after his wife had died. If anything these annoyed him more than he could explain. He wasn't ready to even think of flirting with anyone let alone getting tied up so soon. Then his Pa had died, he was so consumed in his grief that the female population had given up on him and turned their romantic attentions elsewhere. Much to Joe's delight he was able to mourn in peace and live in his self imposed isolation.
He'd surprised himself earlier in the day when meeting Rebekah for the first time. He'd made the first approach, then offered her his assistance. He had just eaten dinner with her and had now made arrangements for the following day. He couldn't remember ever having things progress so quickly. In the past he'd never struggled for female attention, there always seemed to be a young woman waiting for him to ask them out on a date or to a social event, but never dinner on their first encounter, or the second or third for that matter. Now here he was, anticipating breakfast with the young woman the next morning, and...to cap it all, she was sleeping in the adjoining room, just the other side of the door.
Joe swiftly made his ablutions, brushed his teeth, then hung his clothes in the hanging robe. He admitted to himself the bed did look comfortable, and after weeks on the trail it would be so much nicer than the ground. Standing naked in front of the full length mirror he cast an eye over the bruises dotted about his torso and legs, steers could push and shove with force and if you didn't move quick enough, well, bruises were getting off light, broken bones more serious. He knew from experience just how painful getting trampled or squashed could be, and was grateful this trip had gone smoothly. Most of the bruises appeared to be of a blue or yellow hue, though one or two of the deeper ones seemed to be almost black in colour. They were a bit tender, probably bruised the bone, but other wise he felt he had done ok this time, the damage to his body quite minimal, for a change.
Stretching his arms up and out, standing on his toes, Joe eased the kinks from his body, he pulled the bed covering to one side then slid between the crisp white sheets. The chill of the linen made him catch his breath, but then a satisfied sigh followed as he eased back onto the soft pillow.
He spent five minutes talking to his lost family, then repeated the 23rd psalm before turning onto his side. "Good night Mrs. Solomons." he whispered to himself, "I look forward to tomorrow."
With that, Joe Cartwright gave himself up to the arms of Morpheus and fell into a much needed deep sleep.
Morning came too quickly, sunlight streamed through the bedroom window, across the bed and reflected in the mirror. Joe stretched in the warmth of his bed, momentarily confused as to where he was, though soon remembering as he felt the softness of the bed. He flung back the linen and swung his legs out of bed, his toes sinking into the soft carpet. He stood, flexed his shoulders then stretched his back, ran his hand through the wild curly hair then scratched his chest. Stifling a yawn he made his way to the bathroom. The evening previous, he'd spotted a strange contraption over the bath tub. There was a curtain that pulled half way across the bath, which he assumed was to stop water splashing over the floor. He fiddled with the taps, then jumped back in surprise when a stream of cold water flooded down from the high fitment. After a moment or two's twiddling with the taps Joe found the water was just the correct temperature, "Hmmm, this'll be a new experience..." he mused as he climbed into the bath tub and stood under the jets of water.
Rebekah pulled her wrap across her shoulders, put a final pin in her hair then surveyed herself in the mirror. Her dress of deep blue fitted like a glove, not too plain, but certainly not too fussy, she hoped her young cowboy friend would approve. She had known Joseph Cartwright for all of 18 hours. He was kind, attentive, intelligent, funny and not to mention incredibly handsome.
Since being widowed, she hadn't contemplated another relationship. Rebekah had married a much older man, he hadn't loved her, there had been no passion in their marriage though he had been an exemplary husband. She had wanted for nothing, had been mistress of a beautiful house with servants and had been welcomed in all the great houses in New York. She was never certain if it was because of her husband, or the fact that she was an oddity, being of Native American stock. During the marriage she had met many interesting people, people that in the normal course of life she would never have encounted. She had enjoyed the life but after her husbands death had withdrawn from the social circles. On a couple of occasions she had ventured to evening soirées, with a friend as escort, she found it...uncomfortable... difficult. People were no longer so keen to mingle or associate with her as they had before, so she stopped attending, which soon led to the invites also stopping. Over the course of the last 18 months, she had sold the properties in the city, closed various accounts and passed her husbands law practice to his partners, for a healthy sum of money. Rebekah, was comfortably off in the grand scheme of things and had no real desire to have another man in her life. Until now...!
Joe rapped on the joining door, " You ready Ma'am?" he called as the door opened ,"oh hi Rebekah," he greeted with a wide smile, "shall we go get some breakfast an' we can decide how to approach my problem if that's ok with you?"
Rebekah stepped though in to Joe's suite, "I'm starving, " she smiled, "let's eat and talk!"
Breakfast was served in the elegant dining room, heads turned as the couple made their way to a corner table. It had been established through the hotel grape vine that they were not a married couple, but... were sharing adjoining suites, rather scandalous behaviour in many eyes!
"Are you sure you don't mind staying on?" Joe asked, as they ploughed through bacon, eggs and pancakes and copious amounts of coffee. "I thought once we've got the information I need, we could take in a few sights around the city, if you'd like?"
Breakfast over they headed out into the city. Joe needed to get a telegram sent to Hiram Woods as quickly as possible, he could have done it at the hotel but Rebekah advised against using the hotel's own service. "All the better to keep our business to ourselves!' she had told him as they left the hotel and looked to find a handsome cab.
Within the confines of the 'cab they discussed their plans for the coming days. 'I'll get Candy here too,' Joe decided, 'a bit of extra man power wouldn't go amiss...'
'Candy?'
'My Foreman, best friend I guess.'
The coach rolled to a standstill, the driver called down that they were at the telegraph office and should he wait while they sent the message.
'You stay here,' Joe suggested, 'I'll only be a few minutes.'
He quickly wrote out a rather cryptic message to Woods requesting all the relevant paper work to his holdings in the city. He was careful not to mention the hotel or Devere by name, assuming his enquires would get back to the so called owner of the hotel. Joe knew it would be almost a week before his attorney could join him so it would be at least another two weeks before he could return to his home. Another message was sent to the Ponderosa to Hank with the instructions for the continuance of the ranch's daily life and to request Candy join him, if he had returned from his travels. He paid the few dollars charge, asked that the replies be kept at the office for him to collect later during the day, then climbed back onboard the coach with instructions to be taken to the sea front promenade.
They strolled along the Prom, watching the sailing ships floating out in the distance. The sea breezes blowing gently in their hair and the tang of the sea air filling their lungs.
'Have you ever been on one of these Clipper ships?' Rebekah asked as they leant against a mooring bollard.
'Yes, a long time ago. Not a good time.' he said softly 'My Pa was a sailor when he was young, sailed most of the way round the world. My brother Adam, he was a sailor too, but I don't know if he still is or what he's doin' now.'
'It's much nicer here than New York, cleaner and less bustle.'
They continued their stroll, away from the sea now and towards the Botanical Gardens. They talked of their childhoods, their homes, their dreams and their sadness. They admired the flowers and the architecture, the tranquillity of the Gardens. Without realising it, both were opening up to each other sharing their joy and pain. They were getting to know each other.
'Would you like to go to a show tomorrow evening?' Joe asked as they sat beside a bed of red roses. 'We have a few days before Hiram can get here, we ought to make the most of the time available.'
'Oh yes please...' Rebekah answered, 'if we have time that is.'
'We'll go and have some lunch and see what's on here.' With that Joe took her elbow and led her from the gardens out onto the main street to find a nice place to eat.
'I need to find this Marvyn Mayes,' he said as he guided her along between other couples, 'see if he can tell me more about Devere.'
'What about the Bell Boy, he seemed rather disgruntled with Devere, maybe he could help?' she suggested.
'Hmm, maybe...'
They stopped by a small double fronted cafe, red gingham half curtains hung across the bay windows, green plants hanging from the door posts,
'Shall we?' Joe held the door open allowing Rebekah to enter. A young woman hurried across to them, a warm smile greeted them. Soon they were sat in a quiet corner perusing the menu with a bottle of wine already open on the table between them.
Two hours later, fully replete, Joe paid the bill, thanked the young woman who had served them, and obtained some unexpected information. He led Rebekah away from the cafe, towards the 'cab stand, and beckoned for their transport back to the telegraph office.
"Ah Mr Cartwright." the operator greeted as Joe pushed through the door into the small office, "Your cable has just arrived..." and handed the slip of paper across the counter.
"Thanks friend." Joe opened the reply and quickly scanned the few words before him. "Perfect." he murmured more to himself than to the operator, "Thanks again!" he called as he left the office and returned to the awaiting carriage.
"Hiram'll be here as soon as he can get here, 'bout 4 days if he can get the stages ok, though he may take the boat from Sacramento. At least he's on his way!" he told Rebekah as he climbed aboard.
"That's another step forward then." she agreed with a smile for the young man sat beside her.
"That was a stroke of luck getting Marvyn's address at the cafe." she said softly, "now we can find out what happened with your father's hotel."
"Yeah, that's tomorrow's little job, now what would you like to do for the rest of the afternoon?"
"I don't know about you, but I could do with a little rest after all the walking this morning...?"
"OK," he banged on the cab ceiling for the cab to halt, then called up their destination to the driver. "I was thinking, if we go to a show tomorrow evening, perhaps you'd like to have dinner after?"
"Why Joe, that would be lovely," she agreed, "we should make the most of these few days before your attorney arrives, I have a feeling it could get quite...busy...don't you?"
A short while later they arrived at the hotel, Joe handed Rebekah from the carriage to the pavement, then turn to pay the cab driver.
"Can I book you for tomorrow morning, we need to go to an address the other side of the docks?"
"Certainly, what time do you want me to be here?"
"Make it about 10.15, you'll have to wait for us there, then probably back here."
"10.15 it is Sir!" The carriage pulled away into the traffic as Joe and Rebekah strolled into the hotel.
"Mr Cartwright, Mrs Solomons..." the Bell Boy greeted, "Afternoon tea in your suite?"
"That would be very nice," Rebekah responded, "though coffee for Mr Cartwright if you please."
"Who are they?" a tall, imposingly built, grey haired man asked as the elevator door closed on the couple.
"Mr Cartwright..."
"I got that, I mean 'Who' are they, what are they doing here?"
"Um, he's a cowboy from up north, she's...she's travelling with him..."
The grey haired man frowned, "A cowboy in the best suite in the hotel?"
"The lady is in the adjoining suite too Mr Devere, sir. She's his guest!"
A pair of grey eyebrows rose to meet the grey hair, "Is she now!" Devere turned and walked into his office, something about the cowboy was sitting funny with him, he would be asking questions!
The rest of the day passed quietly in the two suites, as before, both took time to have a bath then a rest before deciding to dine in the hotel restaurant. Joe had discovered the shower fitting over the bath, something very novel, but enjoyable and had spent a while showering before settling in the hot bath water and dozing off for a short while, whilst thinking of how he could incorporate a shower system into his home and the bunk house for the men. He'd laid out some clean clothes ready to take Rebekah down to eat but for now was happy just to relax.
Next door, Rebekah had chosen a dress for the evening and was now laid on her bed, eyes closed, thinking of the young man she had thrown her lot in with. She had enjoyed Joe's company through out the day and was looking forward to spending the evening with him.
Arm in arm, the couple made their way to the restaurant, Rebekah laughing at Joe's description of his earlier trials with the shower. To the casual bystander they looked like any young married couple, their body language and expressions showing them to be completely at ease with each other. The Matre D' led them to a table away from the entrance, tucked into an almost private corner, sat them down then handed them the very fancy menu.
Devere had wandered into the room moments after Joe and Rebekah had sat down, he cast an eye around the room, his glance soon lighting on the couple. He worked his way across until he stood to the side of the table.
"Good evening," he greeted making a small bow in Rebekah's direction, "may I introduce myself, I'm Devere, Archibald Devere, welcome to The Cattleman's Hotel."
Rebekah looked up, smiled then returned her attention to Joe who stood to face the older man.
"The name's Cartwright, Joseph Cartwright," he announced, refraining from taking the offered hand. "this is my travelling companion Mrs Solomons. What can I do for you Mr Devere?"
"I...I...er...just wanted to welcome you to the Hotel, I like to say hello to all our guests if I can, certainly those staying in our very best suites. Do they meet with your approval?"
"Thank you, they are very comfortable, who did the interior design if you don't mind me asking?" Joe asked, his face straight.
"My predecessor, the last owner." Devere answered. Joe nodded, "They are very tastefully done!"
"We think so." Devere looked at the young man, "the desk tells me you have an open booking at the moment?"
"Yes, I've some business to attend to, then Mrs. Solomons and I are resuming our journey to Nevada."
"Well, please enjoy your stay here, if there is anything you require, don't hesitate to ask."
"Thank you." Joe sat, again without taking the proffered hand, then picked up the menu. Devere nodded to Rebekah then walked away.
"I don't like him," she whispered frowning.
"Me neither." Joe agreed. "Let's enjoy our meal an' then get out of here."
Two hours later, they sat in the lounge watching the comings and goings of the local population that frequented the hotel. Both nursed a brandy as they relaxed, Joe was happy just to sit and spend the time with Rebekah, at home he would have been in bed by now in anticipation of the early morning chores. At least at the moment he had some good company, and who knows, maybe it would lead somewhere in the future.
Morning found Joe and Rebekah up and breakfasted early. Plans were made to visit the previous manager at his home to discuss Devere and the mismanagement of the Cattlemen's Hotel. One way or another, Joe Cartwright was going to discover what had been happening to his Father's hotel.
Across from the hotel a queue of carriages waited for hire, some looked better cared for than others, some horses better fed than others. Joe walked along the line, taking in the animals and their owner drivers. Eventually he came to a stop, a smart but not gaudy burgundy carriage stood behind a handsome black gelding who was munching contentedly from his nose bag. His owner, an older man brushed the rump of the big horse, he murmured nonsense to the animal as he brushed rhythmically front to back.
Joe moved to the horse's side, "Nice horse..." he addressed the owner, who looked up as he ceased brushing.
"He's a good 'un it's true." came the reply.
"I need transport, probably for the day, can you oblige?"
The older man gave the cowboy the once over.
"I don't go out of the city..."
"That's fine, just me an' my companion..." He waved across to Rebekah who'd been waiting in the doorway to join him. He helped he up into the coach then gave the address of their destination.
"I'll want you to wait an' then take us onward ok?"
The driver nodded his agreement, then climbed up onto his seat, with a gentle flick of the rein the big black moved forward into a steady trot.
A short time later, the coach slowed to a halt, they were outside of a flat fronted apartment block, part of a row of a dozen or so built side by side. All were of a uniform colour and style with steps leading up to the front doors.
The door opened as the driver placed a hand out for Rebekah to climb down.
"This is the address you asked for." he announced pointing to the green door at the top of the steps.
"Great," Joe acknowledged, "if you would wait for us. I'm not sure how long."
"No problem Sir," can the reply, "I'll be waiting here for you."
Together Joe and Rebekah climbed the half dozen steps to the green door. To one side was a row of what appeared to be bells with names along side. Joe swiftly scanned the list of 8 bells, then pressed the one corresponding to the name he had, Marvyn Mayes.
They waited a moment or two, then impatiently, Joe pressed the bell again.
!Hello...what do you want?" a disjointed voice floated down from a window somewhere above them.
Rebekah stepped back, looked up and waved her hand."Mr Mayes?" she called back, "could we have a word with you please?"
Joe stepped into view beside her, "My name's Cartwright," he called up, "Joe Cartwright."
From the steps they could see the change of expression on the man's face.
"Come in, " he called, "second floor number 202."
Joe led the way into the building, he heard a door opening on the upper floor and light flooded the dark stair well. They soon stood outside the door to 202, a small man with very sparse hair waved them into the room.
"Mr Cartwright, I'm Marvyn Mayes, I've been expecting you!"...