Telegrams.

5th Story in the Alexandra Series.

Summary: You wanted to know the why, the when and the how Alexandra came about. Well here it is. Adam receives a wire from San Francisco. He embarks on a journey with Alexandra to bring Katherine home one way or another. He recalls the events of the past along the way.

Disclaimer: I do not own Bonanza, or any of its characters. David Dortort and Fred Hamilton created them and played with them for 14 years. The series is owned by NBC.

Warnings:

Re-cap: Alexandra and Adam continue their journey to San Francisco. They have stopped over for the night in Emerald Bay. Jeffery and Alexandra continue to make amends for the chaos they had caused during the afternoon, that left Jeffery's mother Eve with an injury. The whole event has bought up some very sad memories for the Winston's; A family struggling to survive the wilderness.

"Your Dad's really nice," whispered Jeffery.

"Yeah, he is. What's your dad like?" asked Alex.

Adam smiled, hoping that Jeffery might get a few things off his chest. Sometimes Alex could be a good ear. He hoped this was one of them and latched the door gently.

Chapter 9: Emerald Bay pt 2; Gallows Threat.

Jeffery didn't answer, so Alexandra decided to try and get comfortable, hoping Jeffery might say something soon, for she was not quite ready for sleep, besides it wasn't often that her father extended bed time and Alex was not going to pass up the opportunity.

Alexandra groaned as she tried to get comfortable. 'Boy, dad coulda gone a little easy on me. It's not like I committed such a bad offence. Jeffery did start it. I'm a Cartwright ain't I; that means, we always finish it. That's what Uncle Little Joe says anyway, though Grandpa reckons he don't always go about the right way of finishin' it and he's gotta set him right, with a necessary discussion. These necessary discussions seems ta be a family tradition too, just like finish of a good fight; Dang it!'

"Hey Alexandra, what your Daddy talk about?"

"He didn't do too much talking. I done told ya, my Daddy spanks and asks questions later," grumbled Alex.

"So he didn't ask you for your side of the story?"

"Hmm, yeah he did; I'm jist still a bit mad at him sorta, cause my tails on fire. I ain't supposed to fight. Even iffin you did stab my butt real hard."

"Well, I didn't like you because ... Well I guess I didn't like you, because you didn't like me," admitted Jeffery.

"That's cause, you were rude ta me first, and to yer Momma. Why are you so rude to her? She seems kinda of nice even though she thinks the sun done shine out ya arse."

"You're not supposed to say those words. I heard your daddy say so. I'm telling on you," snapped Jeffery.

"Right; there yer goin' again. No wonder you got no friends, ya can't go tatlin' on everyone all the time, not unless they're in danger... don't ya know that's the kid code?"

"No... I haven't got any friends that are kids. Besides, I think your Daddy's real nice. I wish he was my father."

"Well he's mine and ya can't have him. Besides, iffin my Daddy was your Daddy, you'd be a lot sorer than me. He don't take to kindly ta kids being rude and bratty to other folks, especially grownups, especially family. He woulda blistered yer hide real good for sticking a needle in ma bottom, too. Don't reckon you'd like that part of him being ya Daddy at all," warned Alexandra.

"Hmm maybe not. Those few swats your daddy gave me this afternoon were pretty good. My bottom," snickered Jeffery, " was really stinging."

"I know yer mama spoils ya rotten, but ain't yer Daddy ever spanked you...I mean when... wait didn't you say you ain't you got a daddy?"

"I have got a Daddy, he ... left, but he never smacked me when I was naughty my ma... mother wouldn't let him."

"Why?"

"She didn't want me getting hurt."

"Oh, so your Daddy woulda hurt you iffin he spanked you; what your arse made of glass or somethin?"

"You like saying that word don't you?"

Alexandra giggled, "Sometimes, but only when the grownups ain't around. Guess I shouldn't. Its sorta don't sound nice, it's a tinney sharp word... it's the S's I guess, but it sounds tough. The boys in the school yard says it, cause they think they are tough, so I says it."

"You don't need to; you're pretty tough without it, Alexandra."

"Thanks Jeffery, that's a real nice thing ta say."

"You're welcome," blushed Jeffery.

"So is that why your Daddy left, cause he was going ta hurt you?"

Jeffery shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know, but since my brother Johnny died, nothing was the same. I don't remember a real lot; I was only four. I was the same age as Johnny. He was my twin. He got real sick one day. Johnny was naughty, and he followed Papa out to one of his traps. It weren't too far away, but Momma was real worried. I should have stopped him from following Papa that day. I was always stopping him from doing naughty things; like climbing up on the kitchen chair so he could reach the cookie jar. But, he loved ta follow Papa around. That day he went missing, Mama took me and ran looking for Papa. When we found Papa, he sent us back; promised mamma that he would find him and that it would be alright."

"Did, they find him?" asked Alexandra almost afraid of the answer.

"Papa found him, just before he near drowned in a creek near the Indian village. But then Johnny caught a real bad cold. Momma and Papa had to burn everything he touched. Even our toys, my toys too, we mostly shared everything, Momma said. I remember Papa had to take me away to a cabin, and only Momma was allowed ta stay with Johnny. Then while we were away Johnny died."

"Oh no. That's terrible sad."

"Yep, I guess so. I don't remember Johnny all that much, but Momma says she does because I look like him. So when I forget I just look in the mirror. But Papa doesn't look at me much. I figured cause I wasn't Johnny. I tried to follow him once just like Johnny used to, but Mother screamed, and so did my Papa. They fought a lot about that. I wasn't trying to be naughty, I just thought Papa looked sad and maybe he would be happy if I was with him. After that Momma and my Papa hardly talked at all. Papa just went to his traps and kept hunting, and only came back every couple of weeks or so. Mama hated being there alone. So now we are going to live at my Grandfathers in San Francisco; he's a judge. I hope he likes kids, I hope he looks at me. He didn't know Johnny, so he'll just see me. I hope he likes me."

"He will, but yer gotta be nice to ya mamma. I betcha he loves ya Momma, and your Momma loves you, so then iffin he sees that you love her, he won't be able ta help lovin' ya."

"You really think so? What if I'm naughty? He will probably send Momma and me away. I try not to be naughty. Mamma likes me to stay clean, not get dirty, not go outside even. I'm not allowed to play with the animals, or even milk the cow. I just have to do book learning and become a gentleman, like my Grandfather, so I can be a lawyer or something real important. So I can live in civilised society and don't catch any dirty rotten injun disease."

"Hey!" Alexandra yelled and sat up. "Indians aren't dirty!" she yelled.

"But, my Momma said it was cause of the Indians, washing in the creek, and things. Even the ones that were sick. Johnny swallowed some of that water and he got sick, just like some of the Indian children. Some of them died too, some of them didn't and some of them that didn't die got crippled. Momma said the Indians were diseased, and that how Johnny caught the bad sickness that killed him."

"Yeah well that ain't true of all Indians. My Daddy says, it's the white mans disease that done killed a lot of the native peoples of this land. Iffin your Indians that lived close by was sick, its probably something they caughts from someone else, theys could a been white, Indian, or even animals. That don't make them dirty."

"How do you know?" scowled Jeffery.

"Cause my Daddy says so! Why he'd tan my hide good and proper iffin he heard me say that. His best friend is an Indian chief; Yuma and he even went ta college like my Daddy, corse he was the only one there for a while, but then they started this university for more Indians. And my friend is Lajoci, and theys real Indians. They aren't dirty, theys smart, theys good hunters and everything. They helped my Daddy lots of times and my Grandpa helped them. We live in harmonicas with them, like a pretty song sung altogether, the versus are different, but the music still the same... that's what my daddy says."

"Okay then... if your Daddy says so. He's a good man, smart and brave ain't he?"

"Sure is."

"Alexandra?"

"Yeah?"

"I'm sorry I poked you in the bot...arse with a needle."

"That's okay, can't feel that no more, my Daddy seen ta that too."

"Oh so your Daddy can doctor too?"

"He can, but that's not how he done fixed it, he jist sorta spreaded the sting around more."

"Huh?"

"He spanked me ya green horn! The sting from the needle was nothing compared to that. Anyway, guess I had it comin' for fighting and some other things that my Daddy said was unresolved. Seems ta me you gotta learn ta stick up fer yerself, and ta be a kid more without all that prissy commotion ya go on with. I can help with that iffin you want."

"I don't know. Look what happened to my Momma. Your daddy says it wasn't exactly my fault, but I did have the pin in my hand."

"True, and I reckon yer done deserved a spanking for it, but jist for that. Like my Daddy says, ya didn't mean for the pin ta break, or it ta infect yer mother. But we did both go fightin' in the mud. But, it's all over now. My Daddy says the slate is wiped clean after I paid for my crime. So yer don't need ta worry no more."

"I didn't pay for my crime."

"Yeah, I suppose...Hmmm... Hey," yelled Alex, jumping up excitedly. "I just had an apostrophe!"

"Huh, you sick? Was it something you ate?" asked Jeffery.

"No an idea; it jist come to me really fast. My Daddy calls them apostrophe's like a candle flame going on inside ya head."

"Oh, is that good? Doesn't sound good."

"Meybe... iffin ya want, I can put in a good word with my Daddy. And meybe yer can borrow him for a couple of minutes. He can spank you till ya backside's cherry red. Then yer slate is wiped clean and yer can give my Daddy back ta me."

"You'd lend me your Daddy?" Jeffery asked incredulously.

"I'd be obliged," smiled Alexandra. "I'll talk with him first thing in the mornin."

~oOo~

Meanwhile Adam had been sitting with Nola and Michael Leeder in the kitchen of the way station. Old Henry had helped Nola make up strong poultice for Eve Winston's' knee, then headed off to the barn where he bedded down for the night. He made himself a cot in the barn close to old Duke.

"I'll be dog gone!" said Michael, "You folks sure know how ta make and entrance. I never did see such a sight in my life as the four of you all covered in mud," he laughed.

"That little girl of yours sure must make your life interesting, Adam." added Nola.

"She sure does," chuckled Adam as he sipped on the last of his coffee.

"You up for another cup of coffee, Adam?"

"No I'll be right thanks, Nola. How's our patient in there?"

"She's fine, still a little hot, but nothin' to worry about. I'll got some powders ta help her sleep, till morning. That needle in her leg shoulda moved by then."

"Good, I'll take a watch if you want, Nola. You get some sleep. I haven't really wound down yet."

"That's right nice of you, Adam. Don't reckon you'll be up too long, though; these powders are pretty good," she said as she grabbed a cup from the dresser and made her way over to the pump at the sink. Nola primed the handle several times before a trickle of water came out. "Michael, this pumps clogged up again. 'I'll need some fresh water."

"Can it wait till mornin, darlin?"

"No Michael it cannot. I told you this afternoon it was playing up."

"I knowed sweetheart," said Michael trying to contain his annoyance at his wife subtle chastisement, especially in front of Adam. "But we had a plenty."

"Well that was before our travellers came, all covered in mud. They've all had baths and I done loads of washin'. There was too much cleaning." she said.

"Nola Maree Leeder!" snapped Michael, glaring at his wife.

"Oh, sorry Adam I didn't mean ta blame, its jist that..."

"Please don't apologise, Nola. I can go fix the pump, or get some from the well."

"Ain't got no well Adam, we pump the water fresh from the bay behind us. Not more than a five hundred yards out back. Works perfect most of the time too. It just got clogged is all. There's usually plenty in the reserve barrel we got out the back. Its fine Adam I can do it in the morning."

"That poor girl in there needs to take these powders, Michael Leeder, and if... "

Michael stood up and glared at his wife. "That will be enough Nola, I'll go fix it in the morning. It's too dark outside, right now. There's enough water in the reserve for a cup for the powders, so go give Mrs. Winston her medicine and then you and I are gonna have ourselves a talk before we turn in. Night Adam."

Adam nodded and headed outside to the necessary, while Nola tended to Mrs. Winston. When he returned, neither Nola or Michael were insight, however he could hear Michael's, firm order, through the thin walls.

"Now, get out there an apologise to Adam."

"I'm sorry, Michael, I didn't mean to embarrass you."

"I know that darlin' and I love that your such a good person, caring fer others like yer do, but I'll have no more sass from you in front of clients," warned Michael.

"What about when we're alone," giggled Nola.

Adam heard a sharp thwack, just before Nola came back into the kitchen. He tried to hide the smirk of his face, so he lowered his gaze to the newspaper Michael had left on the table, as Nola came towards him rubbing her backside.

"I'm sorry, Adam, for making you feel uncomfortable about using the water. I had no right to be crabby about it. Michael works hard and there will be plenty of water in the morning. It's just that... well that poor girls story got me all sad, and clucky fer her. It's been a long time since I had someone ta fuss over."

"That's fine Nola, really. I've learnt a lot over the past years about the maternal instincts of women and their need to protect. I guess it never goes away."

"No it doesn't. It don't just stop when our own are all grown, either. But I can tell you a mother will just about do anything to save her babies. I know now why that girl is so frightened for her boy, why she spoils him; pampers him. I don't think she's doing the child any favours though, but I understand it. I'd liked to give her a tad advice on that; perhaps in the morning, when she's feeling better."

"I'll stay up until Eve's sleeping soundly. You go bed down for the night, it's been a long day."

"Okay Adam, just turn down the lamp when you head for your bunk. See you in the morning," smiled Nola as she headed back to the room she shared with her husband.

~oOo~

Adam took a seat in the only comfortable chair by the fire, pulled off his boots and stretched out. He sat there pondering on Nola's words. He sure had learnt a lot about a mother's love over the years. His own mother, for example, was more concerned about the safe arrival of her unborn child and the life he should have as she lay on her death bed.

Then of course there was Inger, who fought along her husband along the trail and then the Indian attack that took her from them too soon. And finally Marie; just like Nola her maternal; protectiveness and love went out to more than just her own, though Hoss was such an easy child to love and cherish. As Adam thought back he marvelled at Marie's determination and unconditional love for him. A twelve year old boy that wanted nothing to do with her at first, wanted her to go away because... because as Adam discovered, he was a boy too scared to love for fear of losing that mother's love again. Mrs Winston; Eve was like that, he guessed. Was that the same reason Katherine had for not telling him about Alexandra all those years ago?

Adam knew now, that that a mother's love was very much the reason, Katherine pleaded guilty to Darcy Plummer's murder over two years ago. "I can't believe I missed all the signs", he said to himself, as he re-called the telegram that sent him back to Elk, almost ten years after his first encounter with Katherine. The telegram that told him, Katherine was on trial for murder...

Flashback

Overland Telegraph Company...

To: Adam Cartwright

Ponderosa Nevada

Katherine De Foe on trial for Murder stop Need your assistance stop Trial starts the 5th. General Thomas Plummer calling for death penalty stop Gilbert Thurne retained as lawyer stop Please help stop

Molly De Foe

Star and Garter Theatre

Elk

Utah Territory.

"We got a day to spare brother," said Hoss, "Where to first?"

Adam folded the telegram back up and put it in his coat pocket. "See if you can get us a couple of rooms over at the hotel, if not; there's a little boarding house down the end of the city square I think, though things have changed somewhat. Wait! It was across the road from the theater. I guess we should go there first. I want to speak to Molly."

"You don't want to see Katherine first?" asked Hoss.

Adam shook his head, and swallowed the lump that sprung up at the mention of her name. "No, I want to speak to Molly then to Gilbert Thurne her lawyer. I want to know just what sort of defence he's going to take," snapped Adam.

"Sorry Adam I didn't mean ta..."

"No Hoss, no I'm sorry I didn't mean to snap. I'm glad you're with me."

"Couldn't let you do this alone."

"Yeah you could, that's why I appreciate you brother. My temper could easily get the better of me, Hoss. The last time I was here is very hazy. I have disjointed memories, some good some not so good. I killed a man here ten years ago. The first man I've ever shot and killed. I don't remember how the town folks felt about it. Being here might just make things worse. I want to speak to Molly and this lawyer first, before I show myself to the sheriff or to Katherine. I need to... "

"Know a few things more. I get it. Come on brother, lead the way. The boarding house sounds jist right."

The pair travelled on down the street untill they came to the Star and Garter. Both dismounted and tied their horses to the rails outside the boarding house and crossed the street to the front of the theater.

Hoss stopped at the billboard. "Hey is this 'ere Katherine?" he asked. The bill poster in front the theater's double doors, listed the main attraction; Lady Godiva, starring Katherine De Foe. It was almost identical to the billboard ten years ago, except this time it wasn't Willameena, who sat in profile on top a white horse with long flowing blonde down past her waist, it was Katherine.

"Yep, that's Katherine, looks like she finally made the main attraction. Ten years ago, she played Romeo in Romeo and Juliet," laughed Adam.

"Couldn't play Romeo now. I guess, she sure did grow - up some. Is she really nekid, Adam?" asked Hoss as he looked closer.

Adam slapped the big man's shoulder. "It's a body stocking; a full length leotard like they wear in the ballet. If she was though, I wouldn't appreciate you ogling her like that."

"She sure is pretty Adam, that the true colour of her eyes?"

"Yes, long blonde hair and the eyes almost the colour of violet. She is still very beautiful."

"No wonder yer fell fer her. Yer lucky I weren't here, she woulda done probably fallen fer me first," nudged Hoss.

"I doubt it Hoss, you were twelve," laughed Adam. "Come on I want you to meet Molly."

Both entered by the front doors of the theatre.

"You cowboy's looking for a drink, a show, or a table?" asked a brightly dressed young woman.

"None of the above," said Adam. "We're looking for Molly. I'm a friend of hers and Katherine's," he added.

"Oh sure, you Mr Cartwright?" the girl asked.

"Yes I am."

"Well then follow me, Sir..." the young woman paused and looked at Hoss."He your body guard or something," she asked pointing to the big cowboy.

"No, my brother. He's with me. Now please, I would like to see Molly."

"Sure, sorry Mister. I just needed to make sure is all."

"That's okay."

Adam and Hoss followed the young woman to a door left of the foyer. They were then escorted to a small office. Once there the young woman open the door and ushered them in.

"Molly, Mr Cartwright is here to see, you... he came!" she then announced excitedly.

"Thank you, Delilah," said the exotic looking woman behind a large oak desk.

"Molly?" asked Adam.

"Surely, I haven't changed that much, Adam?"

"No, Ma'am. But, you were just a kid when I last met you."

"So were you. Guess we've both matured some," she smiled.

"You look beautiful Molly. This is my brother, Hoss."

"Think you'll need him do you?" asked Molly, eyeing Hoss' tall form from head to toe.

"No, but he's a good one to have around if there's a fight. From your telegram, it sounds like we could be in for a big one. What happened Molly? I can't believe Katherine would kill anyone."

"Well, that's an interesting comment, Adam, you haven't even been in contact with her for the last ten years," she snapped.

Adam was slightly taken aback by the harshness of her words, though he remained focused and calm. "Nor, has Katherine been in contact with me. I thought you had moved somewhere down south; back to where Katherine's father came from."

"Pater Ardelle's family were not very welcoming, to say the least, Adam, especially when they... ah heard about the shooting and Willameena's attack. Ardelle's new wife, Monica wanted us gone. Me in particular; his quarter cast illegitimate child. So, Willameena took us back to her father; De Foe's Carnival show, but the road wasn't any place for us. The Star and Garter was where we all wanted to be, I guess."

"Why didn't Katherine write me? I know it was a long time before I wrote. My injuries were not life threatening, but it took me a while to recover. Then things were a little hazy for a while. I remembered very little about my stay in Elk all those years ago," explained Adam.

"Wasn't till he started drawing pictures of a pretty little gal. Lots of pictures. One of them he painted angels wings on her. Another she looked like princess in one of them Shakespearean plays," revealed Hoss.

"Katherine, from The Taming of The Shrew," whispered Adam.

"Yeah, well it was them pictures had helped with his memory ma'am," smiled Hoss.

"I wrote Katherine during my time at college. But, when my letters returned unanswered, I figured she wanted nothing to do with me," explained Adam.

Molly frowned and shook her head. "I don't remember her receiving any letters, Adam, but I do remember her writing to you."

"I never got any letters Molly. I'm certain of it," defended Adam.

"Maybe, your Pa?"

"No Molly, Pa wouldn't have done that. I'm here now aren't I? I'm here to help, Molly. If Katherine had meant nothing to me, do you think I would have come running."

Molly looked at Adam, biting her lip. She could tell that he was telling the truth. "Yes I think you would have Adam, maybe not running, but the one thing I do remember about you is your sense of justice. I think you would come for a friend, no matter what sort of relationship you had. You're a good man. I don't know why you didn't get Katherine's letters. Maybe one day she will be able to tell us."

"One day, why not today?"

"Adam, Katherine is not in a very good mental state. She's just not talking."

"Why what's happened, exactly?"

"The last year in particular has been difficult. Willameena was killed in an Indian raid on a stage coach last November. Katherine and I have been running the theater entirely on our own. We've done a good job, but recently Katherine's memory has been playing up. She's forgotten her dialogue, lines -ups and contracts. She even started painting backdrops, not trusting anyone to do the job well enough. She insisted on performing Lady Godiva and playing the part Willameena made famous. She's been talking about you, her mother and incidents from her past. She's had headaches and has been on edge, especially in the weeks leading up to the incident. She went to see the doc and he gave her some powders, but they didn't seem to help. I wanted her to go back to the doctors, but she refused."

"Why?"

"Katherine believed it was just stress and the busy times we've had."

"Could be, she should have had another check up at least," said Adam.

"I'm sure she would have, but, then everything just happened. One night; Darcy Plummer came in here with his miner friends. The boy had just turned eighteen. His father is General Thomas Plummer. He's no longer a general, but has kept the title. He owns the biggest silver mine here in Elk. The General insisted that young Darcy learn the ropes of his business from the bottom up. The boy had only been working the mines for three months, when his friends talked him into a birthday drink. Then they coaxed him into a dare to get a kiss from Katherine.

Darcy went up to her room. Katherine never did like anyone coming up there unannounced, though I find it hard to believe that she would shoot anybody without first calling for one of us, even if she was startled. We heard a shot, then another. Ivan got there first. Katherine was sitting on the floor with a gun in her hand crying over Darcy's bleeding body and chanting; 'Darcy No...Oh no not again, Frank Hallett, he's dead, he's dead, I'm so sorry.'

Darcy lived a couple of hours, but never regained consciousness. The General had Katherine arrested. She's been in jail ever since. The trial starts tomorrow. The General has vowed to call for the death penalty, should Katherine be found guilty, woman or not."

"What's her lawyer; this Gilbert Thurne, say?"

"He was going for a self defence plea; saying that it was a mistaken identity, that Darcy must have done something that led Katherine to believe she was being attacked, so shot him in self defence."

"Sounds reasonable. If she's been reliving past experiences, which could include Franks attack ten years ago; that's a plausible assumption," stated Adam.

"Maybe, but this town isn't going to put up with any suggestion that Darcy Plummer was up to no good. He jist weren't that type of boy. The General raised him good, tried to raise him right. The man is devastated; Darcy was his only son."

"Well hanging Katherine isn't going to bring him back," snapped Adam.

Molly eyes' widened. "No, but..."

"Sorry Molly, we've got to stop this. I need to speak with Katherine, surely she can tell them something about what happened?"

"That's just it. She ain't said a sensible word since they locked her up. She's jist staring at the walls. It's like she's given up. I jist don't understand it."

"Has a doctor seen her while she's been there?"

"No, the Sheriff tried, but Katherine jist started screaming, so they let it be."

"Fine, well I'll try and change that for starters. I need to speak with her lawyer," said a determined Adam.

"Gilberts office is up the other end of the boardwalk. He's was Willameena's lawyer too. He remembers yer daddy."

"Okay, you coming?"

"No, I'll see you later. I have the eight o'clock curtain to organise. Maybe we have a late night supper."

"Okay Molly. We're staying at the boarding house across the road. Yell out if you need either of us."

"I'm so glad you came Adam, really I just didn't know who else to wire."

"What about her father?"

I thought of wiring him, but Katherine has wanted nothing to do with him, not since... we were there last time."

"I'm so sorry Molly, had I known..."

"Don't be concerning yerself about the past... yet anyway. We've got to save Katherine from the threat of the gallows."

"Okay, Molly, I'll see you around... ten?"

Molly nodded. "Yes, back here at ten. Thanks again, Adam.

As they left the theatre, Adam stopped again outside and examined the billboard with Katherine's picture on it. "Hoss you go get us set up with a room while I head down to the lawyers office," he asked. "I'll meet you at the sheriff's office in an hour."

"Sure thing, Adam." said Hoss.

~oOo~

It didn't take Hoss more than twenty minutes to book a room and unpack at the boarding house. He stepped out on the porch and surveyed the town, looking for a cafe. He wanted to get a bite to eat before meeting Adam at the Sherriff's office.

After spotting a small establishment at the end of the next block of stores, Hoss headed that way. As went to cross the street a small boy ran head first into him.

"Ooofff! Whoa there boy, you're in a mighty big hurry there," he shouted as he grabbed the child, hoisted him up then spun around before placing the boy on the boardwalk from where he just came.

"Sorry, Mister," said the child, looking up at the big man in front of him. He then looked around Hoss, on both sides, before facing him again. "Guess I were in a bit of a hurry. Brother Sebastian's looking fer me."

"Why's that young fella?" Hoss asked, looking at the child, who stood there no taller than a side table and dressed in an oversized pair or work overalls and a large brown cap.

"Oh nothin. I jist ain't supposed ta be in town, but I got somethin important ta do. Jumpin' Jehoshaphat, you're real big ain't ya? You ain't a giant are ya?" asked the lad.

"No, I'm no giant, jist a man," chuckled Hoss.

"Oh, you sure, cause you look like yer a giant. You'd be a friendly one, not like that giant in the bible story, that come ta destroy a whole town. You don't look like you could destroy a whole town, yer not even that scary. Corse momma says looks can be decievin' that means yer can never be too sure." rambled the child.

"Well yer momma may be right, youngin's should be wary of strangers."

"What's yer name?"

"Hoss."

"Horse?"

"No Hoss."

"Oh, that's a strange name fer a man, good name fer a giant though. Hoss as big as a horse, thoughs you kinda as big as a bear. Bet you could wrestle a bear."

"I could, but I wouldn't like it too much, they's dangerous critters. They can tear yer ta shreds."

"You ever seen one?"

"Have a couple of times, iffin you leave them be, they can be friendly... from a distance. Iffin you see one, you jist take off the other way. Why he'd chew you up fer lunch."

"Then lick his fingers," laughed the boy.

"You don't scare easily do yer. Talking ta stranger's..."

"You ain't a stranger; yer Hoss. The friendly giant, who's done got bears fer friends," he smiled.

Hoss laughed, "I heard me a story about three bears once."

"Me too, I seen this pantomime. It was about a girl named Harliquinn, she had silver hair and she broke inta a bears home. Stupid girl, she sure gave them bears some grief; broke all their furniture and ate their food, though porridge is hard enough ta give away, can't see why theys was so upset by it. Still must been all theys had. She were lucky the sheriff didn't come and arrest her ceptin' they wouldn't have believed no bears anyway, cause they couldn't talk and cause they generally got a bad reputation. They woulda felt sorry fer the little girl cause she got frightened, but she shoulda been there in the first place. That's girls fer ya."

"Yup, they can be mite troublesome fer a while until yer grows up a ways anyway. You'll like them when yer older," advised Hoss.

"Nope not me..." the boys speech was interrupted when all of a sudden a man dressed in a long brown cloak with a hood came strolling down the boardwalk.

"Alex!"

"Holy cow, there's Brother Sebastian. Don't let him see me. Stall him can ya mister. I jist got ta do this one thing. See ya! Maybe, I can come back and we can go on a bear hunt fer some friendly bears. They like oatmeal with honey and milk," he smiled as he ran in the opposite direction.

"That child!" grumbled the Brother, as he came past Hoss.

"Sir?" said Hoss, stopping the man. "You looking fer a small boy about so high," he indicated with his hand held no more than three feet from the ground.

"Ahh,... Yes, I am, have you seen him? Was he wearing a big brown bakers cap, bib britches with a red checked shirt?"

"Now, don't reckon the one I seen was wearing a red shirt. I though it twas green. The boy in trouble?"

"No not really, but he shouldn't be in town. Not with the trial about to be happening tomorrow. It's not the place for a child."

"You know about the trial. Do you know Katherine?," asked Hoss.

"Yes... I know Katherine and a few of the theater folks. I often come out and perform a prayer service for them. Some of these town folks haven't welcomed them to Sunday services. Theater people have a bad reputation, I'm afraid."

"Like Bears, Brother Sebastian."

"Bears? Huh? Hey; how did you know my name?"

"Ohh, lucky guess. Might had heard yer name over at the theater. My brothers a friend of Katherine's, we're here ta help."

"Oh, good. Katherine's a good woman and a fine... Uhmm, she hasn't been well lately. I'm glad someone is here to help."

"Yes Molly says she's been unwell. Brother Sebastian do you think you could visit Katherine, talk her inta lettin the sheriff get the doctor to her?"

"I thought the sheriff already had the doctor over there."

"Seems he did, but she didn't take kindly to it. I was thinking maybe she'd be less afraid, iffin you were there."

"Oh, yes of course. I'll go see the doctor now. I'll bring him with me, though I really do need to find this child. Alex will be the death of me." he said shaking his head.

"Oh I'll keep a look out fer him; big hat bib britches and a red shirt, right?"

"That's right. If you find him though don't let him over the jail. Mrs Perkins will watch out for him, while I'm gone."

"Okay, meet yer over the jail then. My brother should be there soon. Names, Hoss; Hoss Cartwright. My brothers is Adam..."

"Adam Cartwright?"

"Yes, you know him?"

"No...ah No, but Molly has spoken of him. I'm glad you're here to help. I will go over to Doctor's now."

~oOo~

Hoss made his way to the Sheriff's office. Just as he arrived so did Adam along with Gilbert Thurne; Katherine's lawyer.

"Adam, how'd yer go?" asked Hoss.

"We've got some work ahead of us, Hoss." said Adam before introducing him to Katherine's lawyer. "Can we take this inside?"

"Sure," nodded Hoss, then all three men walked into the sheriff office.

"Howdy folks, Gilbert," said Sheriff Drummond. "You here ta see Katherine?" he asked.

"Yes, but first, I'd like you to find some documents for me. Ten years ago there was a shooting at the Star and Garter. No charges were laid, but there should be some statements. I believe the deceased was a Frank Hallett."

"Okay, Yeah should be, that wasn't during my time here. I reckon there in the back somewhere, in boxes. Why you think it has somethin ta do with all this," asked the Sheriff.

"I do, both Ivan and Molly and now Mr Cartwright here have recalled the incident. I believe Katherine has had some sort of attack, probably triggered by something Darcy did," explained Gilbert.

"Cartwright?" asked the Sherriff, looking at Adam.

"Yes Adam Cartwright. I was the man that shot that man ten years ago, after he attacked Willameena and Katherine De Foe. It was pretty horrific. Katherine was brutally beaten and molested."

"That might make sense iffin she was reliving the event at the time of Darcy's murder, but Mr Cartwright, there's been lots more evidence ta say that might not have been the case. Katherine bought a gun only two days before the shooting."

"I told you Sheriff, she was frightened of being robbed. Katherine also saw me, she made sure all her affairs were in order regarding the theater, something or someone was scaring her. And what about this Graham Wilson fellow, have you found him, yet sheriff?" asked Gilbert.

"Who's he?" asked Adam.

"Darcy had a run in with him at the Star and Garter about three weeks before his death. Katherine had the man expelled from the gaming room and saloon. He was not happy, threatened Darcy and Katherine."

"Molly says Katherine has been having lapses in memory, this also could have triggered something. This Wilson feller could have been there that night," suggested Adam.

"It might make sense as to why Katherine was so jumpy, but Wilson was not in Elk that night. He has a significant alibi. He was in the jail over at Meeker Lake," said Sheriff Drummond.

"Fine, I can still use the incident to set the scene, it supports Katherine's state of mind," said Gilbert.

"Okay; might all make sense, and if you get a doctor ta check her out, that may be a good defence, ceptin' in this country bein' crazy don't save ya from the gallows, not when yer responsible for the death of a innocent boy," announced the sheriff.

"Well, it should. There have been several cases of defence based on diminished responsibility, mainly with soldiers, and the trauma in war..."

"This is a civilian Mr Thurne, an actress, a saloon owner, not the bests of reputations, and then there's an innocent boy. Darcy just turned eighteen. But, do yer best; don't get me wrong, I got nothing against the girl. I seen how hard her and that Molly work and her momma before them, but yer still gonna have ta go up against the judge and a jury. These folks still believe the Star and Garter is a place of ill repute if ya get may meaning. Why, Molly will tell you some of the women round here had a conniption when that family of actors come ta play. Said the theatre was no place for children, especially girl children. Why even the lad, little A..."

"Yes Judge, the Star and Garter has a past we know of that, but it is a respectable place now," retorted Gilbert.

"Sure, I know that, but it will be the judge that will make the final decision if she's found guilty. And, iffin the General gets a say... well, I don't like yer chances."

Just then there was a knock at the door. Brother Sebastian entered with a young man, in his early thirties, carrying a doctors' bag.

"Brother Sebastian, Doc. What can I do fer yer?"asked the Sheriff.

"Sheriff. This young man, Hoss, asked me to see if the doctor could take a look at Katherine."

"Well David, you know what happened last time, but have a try," shrugged the Sheriff.

"Thanks Sheriff." The doctor then went to walk into the cells.

"Wait," said Adam. "My Names Adam Cartwright, I'm an old friend of Katherine's, maybe she will be more compliant if I'm in there with you, doctor..."

"Everybody calls me Doc Williams, makes me sound old don't it? I think that might be a good idea. We can try, Mr Cartwright," gently offered the young man, with a smile.

They all walked into the cell block, behind the sheriff. As he unlocked the first cell, they saw Katherine standing at the widow. When she suddenly turned around, they spotted a small face peering through the bars. Her eyes, half covered by a large cap went wide and the child quickly disappeared from view.

"Hey kid get outta there!" shouted Sherriff Drummond.

"That child," sighed Brother Sebastian as he turned and ran out of the office.

Hoss followed. Once he got to the street he saw that Brother Sebastian had grabbed the culprit by the ear with one hand and was smack marching the child down the street with the other.

"Yikes! Brother Sebastian, owe... yer gonna pull my darn ear clear off," he cried. "Owe... then what's good would I be without ears, Owe...Or one ears... owe well maybe iffin it was an eye... Owe... I could be a pirate. Owe, Brother Sebastian, it's says...Owe... nothin' in the bible... Owe about and ear fer an Owe... ear..."

Hoss laughed and returned to the office, to find Adam and the sheriff had followed him.

"Who was that, Hoss?"

"Oh jist one of Brothers Sebastian's orphan kids, I'm guessin'. He's been chasing him all day. I reckon it was my fault. I met the boy outside the boarding house. Funny little fella. Brother Sebastian was looking for him, but I kinda done way laid him when I found out the Brother knew Katherine. Figured Brother Sebastian mighta been able to help with the Doc."

"Damn kids," scoffed the sheriff, "Too curious for their own good."

Suddenly they could hear Katherine sobbing.

"No, No, don't tell, hide her...Ah can't... don't touch me... is he dead? Did I kill him..."

"Katherine, listen to me. It's Doc Williams. I want to take a look at you, but you need to calm down a little. Can I give you some powders? It will help you sleep some," he said.

"Mah head hurts, Doc," cried Katherine.

"I know, Katherine. Have you been taking the powders I prescribed for you last month?"

"Ah ... who are you?"

"Doc Williams, Katherine," he said patting her hand, then turned. "Sheriff?" he called.

"Yeah Doc," said the sheriff as he returned to the cell door.

Doctor Williams went to his bag and pulled out some powders. He then handed them to the sheriff. "Can you put this in some water? I need her to be calmer."

"Sure," said the sheriff.

Adam and Gilbert stood in the door way. The doctor called Adam over, then turned back to Katherine. "Katherine?" he called and pulled her face gently around so that she was looking into her eyes. "Katherine, there is someone here to see you," he said.

Katherine's vacant eyes looked up.

"Katherine, it's me, Adam."

Katherine didn't respond. Just continued to stare ahead. Adam looked to the doctor for a cue of some sort. The doctor nodded and motioned for him to grab a seat and pull it up next to him.

"I've never seen Katherine like this. I've only been in Elk a year, and have seen her twice, she'd been complaining of headaches."

"You think it could be related Doc?" asked Gilbert Thurne.

"Could be," mused the Doctor.

"She seems traumatised, Doctor. Pa said she was like this after the attack ten years ago; hardly spoke a word. Pa helped them get out of town and re-settled down south."

"Did you see her then?"

"No, I was unconscious for days."

The Doctor nodded, "Well she is certainly presenting like someone who's had an enormous shock. She's extremely fearful too. Maybe you can jog her memory a little, help her think of a more pleasant time," proposed the Doctor.

Adam took Katherine's hand in his, she frantically tried to pull her hand free, fearful of the touch. "Shhh shhhh, My Bonnie Kate," crooned Adam. "It's me, Adam. I'm here and you're safe."

"He tried to kill Adam, he tried to kill momma. He's trying to kill us again," cried Katherine.

"No Kate, he can't kill anyone. Frank Hallett is dead."

"Ohhhhh, he's dead, Darcy, poor Darcy; just a boy...it's mah fault...No, No... No you must go. You all must go," she screamed and stood up circling around the room and looking out the window. "He'll be watching, he'll be watching.. from the dark he watches," whispered Katherine.

Doctor David Williams stood up and tried to comfort the woman, as the Sheriff returned with the powders, with Hoss close behind.

"You need this Doc?" asked the sheriff.

"Yes please." The Doctor turned to Katherine, "Here I want you to drink this. You have a headache and this will help. It's your medicine Kate, you've been very bold not to be taking it when you should."

Katherine, looked at the Doctor, then smiled. "Bold, yes Ah forgot is all." Katherine slowly sat down and sat on the narrow cot.

Adam decided to take the moment to continue in the same vein as the doctor. "You were always very bold Katherine. Remember the time you snuck me into the theater... or should I say Billy snuck me in."

"Adam Cartwright; Ah snuck Adam Cartwright into the theater. He thought Ah was a boy and now, he's mah beau. Ah was too young... too young," she sighed.

"We were both young, Katherine. Remember the hot springs. We'd picnic there. It was your special place."

"My special place; nobody knows my special place. Nobody goes there, how do you know mah..."

"Because you took me there. I'm Adam. I've come to help."

"Adam?... Adam's mah beau...I'm his Bonnie Kate..."

"That's right you're My Bonnie Kate. Always will be My Bonnie Kate," said Adam gently and picked up her hand, he stroked her knuckles before he kissed her hand.

Katherine burst into tears "Adam!" she sobbed and threw herself into his arms. "You... saved me, don't die, don't die, please don't die."

Adam patted her back. "I didn't die Kate, I'm here."

The Doctor stood up. "I'd like to examine Katherine now if I could. Mr Cartwright can stay, he's keeping her calmer."

The sheriff, Gilbert Thurne and Hoss all nodded silently and then left.

"What do you want me to do doc?" asked Adam.

"Nothing for the moment. Just hold her; I can check some things while she's in your arms. Though, I do have one question; where is this special place Katherine's talking about... Hot Springs; you said?"

Katherine looked at the doctor, "It's a secret... our place. Adam's and mine."

"Oh, sorry Katherine, I won't ask anymore. But, now I need to examine you, can you help?"

Katherine nodded, "but I'm too sleepy now; Ah keep disappearing a little bit more. Be good for Adam, he'll keep you safe."

~oOo~

Adam and the doctor returned from the cells within half an hour.

"Well Doc?" said Gilbert Thurne.

" I can make a statement in court, Gilbert. Katherine has had a severe mental breakdown. I can't say what bought it on; a traumatic event such as being responsible for Darcy's death, or relieving the experience years ago, but whether that came before Darcy's murder or before I can't be sure, though I do have a theory, on that, but I'll need to do some research, first. Mr Cartwright is the special place Katherine's talking about up near Hangover Ridge?" "I think so," answered Adam.

"The trial is tomorrow, Doc, we don't have a lot of time," barked an anxious Gilbert Thurne.

"You'll have your statement for the trial. I believe Katherine was not in her right mind when she pulled that trigger, so Diminished Responsibility is your best defence. I just hope the judge takes it into account when he passes judgement."

"If she's not guilty then there will be no judgement," said Adam.

"Not so, I'm afraid Adam. It may save her from the gallows, or the penitentiary, but she will be still held accountable for the loss of a life," said Gilbert.

"Saving her from the gallows, is what we're all aiming for son," said the sheriff, "The rest will be up to the judge."

"What about this General Plummer?" asked Adam.

"He'll be at the court. He may be more compassionate after he hears all the facts. I'll be putting you on the witness stand, Mr Cartwright," said Gilbert Thurne.

"Put me on too," said Doc Williams. "I can explain her condition clearly and her general health over the year I've been here."

"Okay, folks, visitin' times over. I gotta get this prisoner some supper before I get Seth in here ta take the night shift," said the sheriff.

"Katherine's asleep sheriff, but have something there when she wakes up. It's more important that her fluids are kept up."

"I'm tryin' Doc; honest. I treat my prisoners with ..."

"I wasn't suggesting anything by it, Douglas. If you have any more trouble just call for me," offered the doctor.

"Or me," added Adam. "I'm just over at the boarding house. I'll come back around eleven anyway if that's alright."

"Fine, I'll tell Seth to expect yer."

"Trial's at two tomorrow. I've got a great deal of work to do before then; Henry Leggart, the prosecuting attorney, will give us a run for our money," said Gilbert Thurne as he headed out the door in haste.

End Flashback... for now.

TBC. Chapter 10; Who Sir, Me Sir.

A.N. Sorry this has taken so long, but real life; you know how is. Both Lajoci and I have had to slog this out a little more, I've discovered some holes in my plot and past descriptions;. trying to remember what I've revealed and what I hadn't took some back research. I also had to review the time line of Adams and Alex's journey taking into account where they would most likely stop and how fast stage coach travel was in the 1860's.

***Oh by the way, Cazzychaps has now posted her stories on this site. Her 'Cat' story is one of my favourites as is The Bird Cage Theater, which was a stimulus for Alex's history.