Adam arrived in Stockton the next morning and rented a horse for the solemn ride to the Barkley Ranch. He knew that the news he brought would not be pleasant but they had to be told. Adam knocked on the door and waited.

Tom opened the door and was shocked to see Adam standing on the other side.

"Adam," he asked unsure of why Adam was here, "what are you doing here?"

"I have some rather disturbing news Tom," he answered. "It’s about Jarrod."

"Come in," Tom said gesturing for Adam to come inside.

Adam walked into the foyer and stood there. He was as nervous as a cat.

"Do you want to sit down?" Tom asked pulling him out of his thoughts. "We were wondering how Jarrod was doing in San Francisco. We had thought about coming up to see him but we haven’t had much time as yet."

Adam knew in his heart that the news he brought was going to upset them tremendously but he didn’t have a choice. He couldn’t keep this news from them. If he didn’t tell them, someone else would.

"No," he answered. "What I have to say best be said standing up."

"All right," Tom said as he waited for Adam to say his piece.

"Tom," he replied looking at Jarrod’s father, "Jarrod is missing again. He went to Carson City to investigate a mysterious death and I haven’t heard a word. I’m afraid something has happened to him."

Tom just looked at him. He couldn’t believe that this man was standing in his home telling him that his son was missing again. He just wasn’t prepared for this news. As he stood there, he became very, very angry.

"How could you let it happen again?" he asked angry. "I warned you the last time what I would do if anything happened to Jarrod."

"It was my secretary Jarrod was trying to defend on the charge of murder," he said trying to explain. "She was accused of murdering her boyfriend. I asked Jarrod to take her case and he reluctantly agreed. That’s why he went back to Carson City. To find out all he could about the murdered man."

"I see," Tom replied still very angry. "You got any idea where he is?"

"No," he told Tom. "I suggest you start in Carson City and see what you can find."

"Why haven’t you gone?" Tom asked still very upset. "You were his boss. It’s your responsibility."

"I couldn’t leave Sandra," he answered. "I need you to go look for Jarrod. And I’m not his boss any longer. We are equal partners."

"You need me," Tom said sarcastically. "I am going to look for my son and I’m going to bring him home. And one more thing. If that boy is hurt again or even dead, you will pay. I promise that. You will pay. I can’t believe it. Jarrod missing and presumed dead. How could this have happened again?"

"I understand," he replied sympathizing with Tom. "I must get back to San Francisco. Tom, I’m sorry."

Adam slipped out the door before Tom could say anything else. Tom stood in the middle of the foyer looking at the closed door. He was still very angry but he had to find Jarrod so he decided to throw a few things together and go to Carson City.

"Why!" he cried which brought both Victoria and Nick running.

"Tom," she said as she stopped beside of him, "I thought I heard you yell."

"I did," he replied looking at her with anger still on his face. "That was Adam Howard at the door. Jarrod is missing. He went to Carson City and now he’s gone. I don’t believe this."

"No!" she cried not wanting to believe her son had disappeared. "How?"

"I’m not entirely sure," he told her. "Something to do with a murder trial."

"Father," Nick said looking at his father, "I bet we could find him. But where do we look?"

"Carson City," he replied nodding. "The same city he ended up nearly dead in four months ago. The same city that wouldn’t help him then."

"I don’t believe any of this," she told them. "Why Jarrod?"

"All Adam said was that his secretary was accused of murder," he said trying to remember the conversation. "And that Jarrod took the case. He went to Carson City to investigate the murder."

"Tom," she replied looking at him with an expression of shock but also with an expression of rage at whoever had taken her son, "you have to go after him. I’m afraid for his life. Someone has already tried once. What’s to stop them from trying again?"

"I know," he told her nodding "Nick, you want to go?"

"You better know it," Nick said looking at his father. "That’s my brother you are talking about. I want to find him and then I want to personally break every bone in Adam Howard’s body. How dare him send Jarrod off alone? What was he thinking? He should know by now that Carson City is a bitter pill for Jarrod to swallow."

"I agree," he replied as he looked at his wife and son. "We’ll leave now and we’ll take horses. Victoria, when we find him, we’ll send word. You wait until you hear from us. We may need you before this is all over."

"Why horses Tom?" she asked not understanding his motives.

"Because I have a bad feeling about where he could be," he answered.

"Where father?" Nick asked trying to figure out what his father was talking about.

"The one place where a body may never ever be found," he answered. "The one place where a man can die a very horrible death all alone. A place that has become a graveyard for both man and horse."

"Tom," she said not catching on, "stop babbling. "What are you talking about?"

"Victoria," he replied trying to soften his news, "I am afraid that Jarrod has been left in."

"Where Tom?" she asked pleading. "Tell me."

"The desert," he answered letting that one word hang in the air around them.

"Tom," she asked, "do you really think so?"

"Yes," he answered. "I know that if you want to get rid of someone, just strand them in the desert and Mother Nature will take care of the rest."

"Father," Nick said looking at his father, "I want to find Jarrod. Let’s go."

"All right," he replied looking at his wife. "We’ll wire you as soon as we know something. So you be ready. And you might check with Doc Merrar. It’s just possible we may need his services if we can get to Jarrod before he..."

"I wish I could go with you," she told him, kissing him. "You find Jarrod and bring him home. You make sure you find him no matter what condition. Even if he is dead."

"I will," he said walking over to pick up his hat and gun belt. "Try not to worry. We’ll bring Jarrod home."

That being said, Tom and Nick headed for the desert and Jarrod.

A Payute Indian brave, the son of Chief Bohanna, was heading back to his village from a long hunting trip and rode by Jarrod’s unconscious body. His name was Red Cloud and he would soon become chief of his people. As he rode across the barren land, he thought he saw something lying not too far away. He couldn’t make out what it was at this distance. So he decided to have a closer look. As he rode closer to the object, he realized it was the prone body of a man. He jumped from his horse and hurried over to the man. Red Cloud knew that he was badly hurt and rolled him over onto his back. He could see the damage that had been done to Jarrod’s face and he also knew that he suffered from dehydration and maybe some form of heat stroke. He felt Jarrod’s face and it was extremely hot to the touch. The first order of business was to ascertain whether the man was alive or dead. Red Cloud felt the man’s chest and realized that he was indeed alive. But he also knew that this man was suffering from exposure, dehydration, and some kind of beating from the looks of his face. Gently, easing Jarrod up to his feet, he helped him walk to a small rock formation that was nearby, which Jarrod had failed to see, where he could get Jarrod out of the direct sun. He had no idea who Jarrod was but he decided to find out as soon as the young man came to.

As he eased Jarrod down onto the soft sandy ground to lean up against a large rock, he brought his canteen of water to the injured man. Gently, lifting Jarrod’s head, he poured a few drops of water into his mouth. Jarrod felt the cool liquid as it landed on his very dry tongue. He opened his eyes trying to understand what was happening to him. He noticed Red Cloud and tried to get up.

"Easy," Red Cloud said as he eased Jarrod back against the rock. "You are suffering from many things. I must get you back to our people so you can be healed by our medicine man. Your injuries are bad."

"Who are you?" Jarrod asked but he was barely audible. "Are you from around here?"

"I am called Red Cloud," he answered looking at the injured man. "I am Chief Bohanna’s son. What is your name? And why are you out here in the first place? The desert is no place to be unless you are prepared."

"I’m Jarrod Barkley of Stockton," Jarrod said trying to stay awake.

He was so tired and thirsty and the task of trying to talk was weakening him further. His eyes almost closed but he managed to hold them open.

"I know of a woman who comes to our village every year and brings medicine along with supplies," he replied looking at the young man to see how bad he was hurt. "Her name is Barkley. She has been a big help to my people helping them when they are sick or dying. And she has helped me learn to speak your language."

"My mother," Jarrod told him just as he lost consciousness again.

Red Cloud knew he had to help this man. If he was the son of the white woman with medicine as Red Cloud called Victoria, then he would have to return the favor and keep her son alive or alive long enough to get him home.

"Rest," he said as he helped Jarrod to lie down on a blanket he provided. "We make our journey as soon as you are ready."

Red Cloud placed water on Jarrod’s very red face and kept him as quiet as possible so he could take him to his village. Only then would Jarrod be able to be healed by the medicine man. Or at least Red Cloud hoped he would. He did not look forward to having to tell his mother that her son was dead.

Tom and Nick had been riding for most of the day. They were hot and tired but they weren’t about to stop searching for Jarrod who they feared might already be dead.

"Father," Nick asked as they rode looking for any clue that Jarrod was here and still alive, "do you really think we can find him?"

"I don’t know son," he answered looking at his second son. "I only know that I have to try. I can’t leave him out here in this heat to die alone. I will take him home no matter what condition he is in."

"You mean whether or not Jarrod is still alive," Nick said nodding. "I just can’t imagine life without Jarrod around. He’s always been there for me and now suddenly there is a possibility that he won’t be. I just don’t want to believe it. It also makes me angry. Angry at Adam Howard and whoever left him out here."

"Exactly," he said looking at his son. "We need to keep a close eye on the area so we won’t overlook Jarrod especially if he is on the ground. I’m betting he is no longer on his feet. It’s been nearly three days that he’s probably been out here. Without water, he’s going to be mighty weak if he is still alive."

"I hope we find him alive," Nick replied trying not to get upset at the prospect of losing his oldest brother. "And I’m going to make Jarrod a promise. I’m going to hunt whoever is responsible for doing this and I’m going to take it out of their hide."

"I understand how you feel," he told his son. "But the first order of business is to find Jarrod."

They continued to search. As they rode, Nick looked at his father.

"Why?" he asked trying to understand why someone would do this to Jarrod. "I don’t understand why they would do this."

"I don’t know son," Tom answered shaking his head also trying to understand what had prompted someone to leave his son in this searing desert. "Someone evidently wanted your brother dead. And Jarrod is the only one who can tell us if he is still alive. I’m beginning to doubt that he could have survived three days out here. The searing heat and no water. It doesn’t sound promising."

"You have to be wrong," he said trying to hold out faith that they would find Jarrod alive. "I know he is alive. Remember I can tell. After all didn’t Jarrod ride all night when I was trapped in that mine?"

"Yes," Tom replied trying to convince Nick that the possibility of finding Jarrod alive was dwindling. "But for how long. Without water, no one will survive for very long. But I am trying to keep the thought that he might just beat those odds and still be alive."

"Father," he told him, "I promise I’m never going to argue with Jarrod again. I just want to tell him how proud I am of him and how much he means to me. I have to have him in my life."

"You will," Tom said looking at Nick. "At least I hope you will. I feel the same way. I have watched him grow up into a handsome young man with a bright future. And then all of a sudden within six months, Jarrod has been almost killed. It’s not easy for a father to see that, to know that his child is dead."

"Father," he replied trying to help his father deal with what had happened, "you were the best father to us all. I know Jarrod would agree."

"I appreciate that son," Tom told him. "That really means a lot."

Tom knew how much Nick loved Jarrod and how much Jarrod cared about Nick. He didn’t want to think about the prospect of losing a child. He was so proud of his oldest son and everything he had accomplished. Now, for that to be taken away by someone who didn’t want Jarrod to tell whatever he knew. At least that’s what Tom guessed had caused Jarrod to be out here.

"Father," Nick asked, is something wrong?"

"I was just thinking about the reason for Jarrod being out here," he answered. "I bet Jarrod found out something and someone decided to keep him from telling what he knew."

"Maybe they knew who he was and that’s why they didn’t kill him out right," Nick said grasping at straws. "It is possible."

"Yes," he replied hoping himself that somehow Jarrod had survived. "I agree. But now we have to find him or at least find his body. I don’t want to think about my son being dead but it is a distinct possibility."

"I know," Nick told him looking at his father. "I can’t imagine life without him myself. He’s always been there."

"Yes he has," he said as he thought about Jarrod. "You know something."

"What?" Nick asked wondering what his father was going to say.

"I remember right after Jarrod was born," he answered, "I thought to myself what a rancher that boy would make but it wasn’t in the cards. He wanted nothing to do with it. However, he kind of changed after you were born."

"What do you mean?" Nick asked very curious.

"I remember one day when Jarrod was around ten or so," he answered, "he told me he had something he wanted me to know."

"I sat there looking at him," he said coming back to the present. "I guess I was shocked by his statement."

"And that’s how you two became partners in the ranch," he said as he came back to the present again. "I’ve always wanted that. And with Gene, it will be a three-way partnership."

"Father," Nick replied shaking his head, "you know that college boy won’t stay here to help us. He’d rather run off after a sick animal."

"If your brother thinks he can help animals then we must encourage him to pursue what he wants to do in life. And if that means he has to leave the ranch, then so be it. But it will still be partly his as well as Audra’s."

"I understand father," Nick told him.

And they rode on although both of them now doubted that Jarrod was alive. But they had to find him no matter what.

Red Cloud continued to try to do as much as he could for Jarrod. But he knew that it wouldn’t be enough. Jarrod was still unconscious and he was near death. So Red Cloud made a difficult decision. He would make a litter and take Jarrod to his village. He found several good-sized sticks from where a tree had once stood. He used them for the framework. Next, he tied his blanket to them. And finally, he eased Jarrod onto the litter, tied it to his horse and began the task of taking the injured man to his village. As Red Cloud walked, he would periodically look back at Jarrod. He could see that Jarrod was still in very serious condition. He knew that Jarrod would probably be dead soon if he wasn’t able to get him help. And that would be a shame. He had come to respect the white woman when she came to his village every year. He did not look forward to seeing her knowing that he had been unable to save her son.

Tom and Nick were heading toward Red Cloud and Jarrod. They were getting very ancy as they kept searching. They knew the longer it took, the less likely they were of finding Jarrod alive. But they wouldn’t give up.

"Father," Nick said looking at his father, "we’ve been out here for at least two days and nothing. We must have missed him somewhere."

"It’s a mighty big desert," he replied nodding. "He could be almost anywhere. But we must keep searching."

"You’re right," Nick told him.

"If we don’t find him by dark," he said looking at the vast desert in front of him, "we’ll turn and go back."

"Yes," Nick replied nodding. "At least we haven’t given up. But the longer it takes, the less likely we are of finding him..."

Nick couldn’t get the word out. Tom knew exactly what he was going to say.

"I know son," he said. "Believe me I know. And it’s tearing me up inside to know that."

"Me too," Nick replied.

They continued on but neither expected to find Jarrod alive after this many days out here without water.

Red Cloud stopped about dusk. He gave Jarrod some more water but he never opened his eyes. He could tell that Jarrod was weakening with time. He knew that time was growing short but he also knew he had to keep going. And he did. He knew the desert and could find his village in the dark. So he kept moving, being very careful not to jar Jarrod too much. Although he knew that it was going to be a miracle if he survived to reach the village at all.

"I will do all I can for you," he said looking at Jarrod as they proceeded. "Your mother has been such a big help to my people. For me to let her son die is not going to happen. I want her to have her son back. You rest and we will be there soon."

But he doubted Jarrod even heard him. He looked so weak but Red Cloud knew he had to try. He forced some more water into Jarrod’s mouth. But again no movement. He knew that Jarrod was dying. How would he explain it to his mother?

Tom and Nick saw something in the distance and stopped just about the time they were going to turn around and head back.

"Father," Nick said pointing, "I see something. Although at night this desert can play tricks on your eyes. It looks like someone walking. Do you think it could be Jarrod?"

"I do too," he replied looking straight ahead. "We need to be on our guard. There are hostile Indians around. I don’t really think Jarrod would be walking at this juncture."

The two men drew their guns proceeding on with extreme caution. As they got closer, Tom realized it was a man. Nick saw that it was an Indian and then he saw the litter.

"He’s got Jarrod," Nick said as he pointed his rifle at Red Cloud. "He’s going to kill Jarrod."

"Hold it a minute son," he replied recognizing Red Cloud. "That’s Chief Bohanna’s son, Red Cloud. He’s probably taking Jarrod to his village. Come on. He’s got Jarrod. Maybe he’s not dead."

"Taking Jarrod to his village," Nick told him. "I don’t understand. He’s going to kill Jarrod. That’s all Indians are good for. They kill innocent people and then scalp them."

"No son," he said pushing the rifle down. "Chief Bohanna is an old friend. And I’ve known Red Cloud since he was a boy. He’s trying to help Jarrod. He wouldn’t hurt Jarrod especially if he knows who he is."

"Are you sure?" Nick asked looking at his father. "It could still be a trick."

"No it’s no trick," he answered. "I know in my heart that he is trying to help Jarrod."

"All right," Nick said but he was still leery of the Indian.

The two of them rode up to Red Cloud who had stopped, drawing his own rifle. He held it in his hands pointed at Tom and Nick. He didn’t know who was riding up to him. For all he knew, it could have been white men who were outlaws. They had been known to kill innocent Indians when they wanted to. He wasn’t going to take any chances.

"Who are you?" he asked as they rode up still holding the rifle on them. "What do you want? I am trying to take this man to my village. He needs help."

"Red Cloud," Tom answered stopping and raising his hands up, "I’m Tom Barkley. "That’s my son. Is he still alive? Where did you find him?"

"You are mate to white woman who brings medicine," he said remembering. "I remember you. Been long time. Yes I see now. You are father to him."

"Is Jarrod alive?" Nick asked looking over at his brother.

"This is Jarrod’s brother Nick," Tom said looking at his oldest son. "We have been in the desert searching for him for three days. How in the world did you find him?"

"Yes," he answered looking at Nick. "But he is very sick. I was taking him to my village so the medicine man could help him. Black River has many ways to heal sick."

Tom jumped from his horse, hurrying over to his son. He kneeled down beside of Jarrod. As he looked at his son, he could tell that Jarrod had been in what looked like a fight. He was just relieved to find him alive.

"Son," he said quietly, "I’m here. You’re going home."

Jarrod’s eyes opened a slit and he tried to smile at Tom after he recognized Tom’s voice. But he was too weak.

"I’m here," he said again taking one of Jarrod’s hands in his. "You are going to be all right."

Nick was at Jarrod’s other side. As he looked down at his brother, rage was all he could feel. He knew that he shouldn’t let it overtake him but he couldn’t help it. Jarrod was lying there fighting to live. And he knew that whoever had left him here would pay for what they had done.

"Jarrod," he said trying to smile, "I’m here too. We’re going to take you home."

Jarrod barely nodded as he looked up at his brother and then closed his eyes. Tom just looked at him trying to keep from crying at the shape Jarrod was in.

"Your son will heal," Red Cloud said as he watched. "But it will take time. I found him maybe ten miles back. He was unconscious then. He had been beaten and he was hot to the touch. I gave him small amount of water. I not want to hurt him. Decide best thing to do is take him to village. See if Black River can heal him."

"We thank you for what you’ve done," Tom replied looking up at the Indian. "You have at least saved Jarrod for the moment. But we need to get him to help. I need to wire his mother. She is worried sick about him. There is also a doctor ready to make the trip here from Stockton. But I don’t think he can stand the trip to Carson City. In his present condition, he’d most likely die en route."

"Village close," he told them trying to make them understand what he intended to do. "Medicine man cure."

"I hope so," Tom said nodding. "Let’s go. Nick and I will go with you. Now that I’ve found Jarrod, I’m not leaving him. He needs me. He needs his mother. He needs a doctor."

"Father," Nick replied looking at Tom, "I don’t like the idea of some crackpot Indian trying to help Jarrod. He’ll die. We don’t even know what he might give Jarrod. It could kill him. I can ride back to Carson City and send a wire to mother who can bring Doc Merrar to help Jarrod."

"The medicine man is no crackpot," Tom told him knowing from experience just how much medicine men did to cure afflictions. "He knows what will cure. He knows about the different herbs that have healing powers. Jarrod will never make it to Carson City and Red Cloud’s village is our only hope. I’m willing to take my chances with their medicine man."

"I don’t know," Nick said still not wanting to trust Jarrod to some Indian. "I still think I should get mother."

"Son," Tom replied, Jarrod is getting weaker by the minute. If he’s to have any chance, we have to get moving. Try to understand. I’m just as worried as you are. But Red Cloud’s people are good people and they will try to save his life. We have to allow them to try. It’s Jarrod’s only chance to survive."

"All right," Nick told him giving in and nodding. "I just hope they don’t kill him or make him suffer any more than he already has."

"I’m sure they won’t," he said mounting up.

The small party mounted up and rode toward Chief Bohanna’s village. Tom kept an eye on his son. Jarrod’s breathing was getting shallow and he knew that time was growing short.

"Nick," he said as they rode, "I want you to go get your mother. Bring her to Chief Bohanna’s village. She will never forgive me if Jarrod dies and she is not present. Tell her that Jarrod is still alive but he is fading. I believe that if she is present, he might try to fight to survive. I’ll stay with Jarrod until you return."

"Are you sure?" Nick asked not wanting to leave his father or his brother. "I don’t trust them. It will take a day maybe two to reach Carson City. Then another day for them to get here. That’s a long time for Jarrod with these Indians. They could kill him and you. And I wouldn’t know it."

"I’m positive," he answered looking at his son’s concerned face. "This is Jarrod’s only hope for survival. I’m not about to throw that away because you don’t trust Indians. Your mother and I both know Red Cloud and his people. They will do everything they can to save him. Please Nick. Let us do this. I know that your are worried but I promise he’ll be in good hands. Now go."

"All right," Nick said understanding what his father meant. "I’ll be back as soon as I can."

"If you’re not sure where the village is," he replied looking at Nick, "your mother will. She’s made the trip every year."

Nick nodded and rode away from them heading for town to wire his mother to meet them in Carson City. Tom and Red Cloud kept going toward the village. But it was slow going. Neither one of them wanted to jar Jarrod any more than was absolutely necessary.

When Tom and Red Cloud arrived at the village, Chief Bohanna was waiting on his son. He at first didn’t recognize Tom or Jarrod. He walked over to look down at Jarrod. Then he looked at his son.

"What has happened my son?" he asked as he saw Tom and Jarrod. "Why have you brought white man to our village. They have their own medicine men."

"Father," Red Cloud answered pointing to Tom, "you remember the white woman who brings the supplies and medicine to our village. This is her mate and son. He has been in desert for long time. And he is very sick. Too sick to take to white doctor. I think bring him here to medicine man. See if he can help. Die if help not found."

"I see," he said looking at Tom. "I did not recognize you my friend. Why son out in desert? He not know how bad desert be?"

"I’m not sure chief," Tom replied shaking his head. "I think he found out something that someone didn’t want him to and they decided to get rid of him. He’s so weak and he looks like he’s been in some kind of fight. I haven’t been able to question him about the events that took place prior to him being left out here. I’m just happy that your son found him."

"Put him in tent," he told them pointing to one of the closer ones. "I bring medicine man."

Tom eased Jarrod up into his arms. Jarrod was so limp. And he feared that even the medicine man couldn’t help him now but he held on to the thought that Jarrod would somehow overcome this and get better. He carried him into the tent, laying him on some skins on the floor. He covered him up as well. He looked down at his son’s face, devoid of color and he could hear Jarrod’s labored breathing. He prayed that the medicine man could somehow save his son. Jarrod was still hot to the touch so Tom knew he had a fever inside and probably a heat stroke.

"Father," Jarrod said very weakly barely opening his eyes to Tom’s surprise.

"I’m right here son," he replied looking at his son. "You need to rest. You have been out here in the desert for at least three days."

"I hurt," Jarrod told him.

"I don’t doubt that," he said nodding. "Were you in some kind of fight?"

"Yes," Jarrod replied trying to stay conscious. "I was attacked by two riders I thought would help me. When I asked for water, they beat me till my head began to pound again. I tried to make it..."

Jarrod passed out again. Tom looked down at Jarrod knowing the he was in worse shape then he had imagined. Tom was finding it hard to contain his anger at what had been done to his son. But he knew he had to be strong for Jarrod. There would be time enough to get those responsible for hurting Jarrod but for now he needed to concentrate on helping his son to heal.

An older man walked into the tent a short time later. He carried a pouch with him and he wore a band around his head that signified that he was the medicine man. He was taller than Tom and very thin. As he approached Jarrod, Tom could see that the man knew what he was doing. But Tom still had the feeling that Jarrod needed a regular doctor or he would die. Somehow, what Nick had said before he left stayed with Tom. And he had agreed to bring Jarrod here.

"Sun has power to heal or hurt," he said as he looked at Jarrod. "This brave hurt by sun. I will now call on the Great Spirit to help me heal this brave."

He sat down beside of Jarrod and to Tom went into some kind of trance. He began to chant something Tom couldn’t recognize. Tom looked at Red Cloud who had accompanied the medicine man.

"Black River is communing with the Great Spirit," he said to Tom as he noticed that Tom was confused by what Black River was doing. "Only this way will he be able to help son. He will call on the Great Spirit to guide him to heal son. It take time but son must be strong."

"I don’t understand," Tom replied completely baffled. "Is he going to help Jarrod or hurt him more? I was wrong to bring my son here. I know that now. I need to take him to someone who can help him."

"He will help," he told Tom trying to convince him. "Take time. He will make medicine to heal. Son must drink. Be here long time as heals."

As Black River continued to sit beside of Jarrod chanting, Tom noticed that he was mixing different herbs from his small pouch in a small cooking pot over a small fire. Tom hadn’t even noticed that Black River had even started a fire. This was amazing but would it help Jarrod? Tom doubted that. He really thought it might kill his son. He realized that he was thinking the same thing as Nick had voice earlier. He had to have faith that somehow Jarrod could be saved. Black River poured some of mixture into a small cup. Reaching over to Jarrod, he lifted his head forcing him to drink. At first, Jarrod tried to stop him but in his weakened condition he wasn’t able so he ended up drinking the mixture. He made a face as he swallowed it. But then he passed out again. Tom started toward him but Red Cloud stopped him with a hand on his arm.

"What is he giving Jarrod?" Tom asked very concerned as he turned toward the younger Indian.

"He has spoken to the Great Spirit," he answered trying to explain. "And he now will give son healing medicine. He must get great fire to leave son’s body. When that done, son have chance."

"That would be Jarrod’s fever," Tom said understanding. "He has a multitude of injuries. Frankly, I’m amazed that Jarrod is still alive."

"Yes," he replied looking at Jarrod. "He will use all his tools to try to save son’s life. Be patient. Take much time. Son very sick. Must continue to ask help from Great Spirit."

Tom nodded continuing to watch.

Nick had rode most of the night but he had finally made it to Carson City by early the next morning. He hurried into the telegraph office.

"You look like you’ve rode all night," the telegraph officer said looking up. "Can I help you with something?"

"I need to send a wire to Stockton, California," he replied stopping at the counter. "To Victoria Barkley. Barkley Ranch in Stockton. Mother, come at once. We found Jarrod. Bring doc. Hurt bad. Nick."

"I’ll send it right away," the man told him. "Is that your brother?"

"Yes," h said as he paid the man. "He’s been stranded in the desert for the past three days. He’s alive but barely. He’s at the Indian village."

"Why there?" the man replied looking worried. "They will more than likely kill him."

"What was I supposed to do?" he asked. "I wanted to bring him here but he was too weak. I know my mother will bring our doctor here. I just hope Jarrod is still alive when they get here."

Nick left the telegraph office.

"I promise that if Jarrod dies," that Indian village will also pay.

Nick knew he had to wait for his mother to arrive which would take at least a day if not more. But he didn’t like the idea of leaving Jarrod in some Indian village with some crazy man who might kill him rather than save him.

"Don’t worry Jarrod," he said as he took a room at the hotel for the night, "I’ll get revenge for you. I swear."

Nick couldn’t rest. All he could see in his mind was the form of Jarrod lying on that blanket. He knew that Jarrod was very sick. And the thought of a total stranger let alone an Indian trying to heal him didn’t set well with Nick.

Black River looked up at Tom. He shook his head.

"Give brave medicine," he said as he handed the cup to Tom. "Every time hear wolf cry. Make brave better with time. I talk to Great Spirit. See if any more medicine needed."

Tom took the cup and nodded at the older man. He sat down beside of Jarrod. Then he looked up at Red Cloud.

"How often?" he asked not completely understanding. "I didn’t understand about the wolf cry. Do you know anything about hours?"

"It would be like two of your hours," Red Cloud answered understanding Tom’s apprehension. "Medicine made of healing herbs. Help son. Black River continue to work hard to save son. Like I say before, take long time. Son very sick."

"I hope so," he said as he turned his attention to Jarrod. "I’m just very worried. I’m afraid he won’t survive and that really scares me."

"You rest also," Red Cloud replied getting ready to leave the tent. "Must be strong for son."

"I will," he told the Indian.

Red Cloud left the tent and Tom stayed beside of his son giving him the herbal mixture every two hours. But so far there had not been any change. Jarrod was still unconscious and he was still very weak but he tried to hold out hope that Jarrod might survive.

Nick continued to wait at the hotel. He was as jumpy as a frog with the hiccups. He prayed as he met every train that arrived from California that his mother and the doctor would be on it. But so far he hadn’t had any luck. When the latest train arrived from California the next day, Nick watched the people leaving the train. He spotted his mother and Doc Merrar. He hurried to them.

"Nick," she asked as he reached her, "how is Jarrod? Is he still alive? Where is he?"

"I don’t know," he answered shaking his head. "He is not in town."

"Where is he?" she asked very concerned. "I don’t understand what is going on. When I received the telegram, you said that he was hurt. I just assumed that he was in Carson City under a doctor’s care. Now you tell me he’s not even in town. Just where is he?"

"Jarrod is at the Payute Indian village," he answered trying to explain. "Being treated by some crazy Indian. We found him with a brave named Red Cloud in the desert. He was taking Jarrod to his village in hopes of making him well. But Jarrod didn’t look good to me."

"Chief Bohanna’s son," she said as she recognized where Nick was talking about. "They are good people Nick. They will do everything to help Jarrod."

"Yes," he replied looking at her realizing she felt the same way as Tom did. "Father said that Jarrod was in good hands. I don’t agree. I think these people will end up killing him. I want to get back to him as soon as possible."

"It’s all right," she told him trying to ease his fears. "I go to that village every year with medicine and supplies. You should remember that. Chief Bohanna will go out of his way to try to cure Jarrod once he finds out who Jarrod is. It’s his way of thanking me for all of my help. Try not to worry."

"I guess I forgot," he said looking at her. "I just want the doc to see Jarrod. I don’t trust them."

"Nick," the doctor asked changing the subject, "is it the medicine man?"

"Yeah," he answered turning his attention to the doctor. "I don’t trust him. He could end up killing Jarrod with mumbo jumbo."

"How bad is Jarrod?" she asked trying to ascertain exactly what Jarrod’s condition was. "Just what happened to him in the desert?"

"He was beaten up while he was in the desert," he answered trying to remember what he had seen. ""He was hot to the touch as well as hot inside, he complained of a bad headache. I’m sure there was more wrong with him but Jarrod passed out and I haven’t been back. Father told me to stay until you arrived. He said they would be all right."

"That sounds like a serious concussion," the doctor said as he listened to Nick’s explanation of Jarrod’s condition, "a fever, dehydration and maybe some kind of heat stroke. Nick, how far is it to this village?"

"About a half day’s ride," he replied looking at the doctor. "I can take you if you want to leave now. Or at least mother knows exactly where it is."

"I do," the doctor told him. "Jarrod is going to need antibiotics and fluids to survive. I will need to see what else is wrong with him."

"Doc," he asked hoping for a positive answer, "can you save him? I mean, do you think he will live or die?"

"I don’t know," The doctor answered looking at Nick. "Not until I have examined him. Once I do that, I can tell just how much damage there is to him."

Nick nodded and they left the train station heading for the livery stable to get horses to take them to Jarrod.

"Mother," he asked as they headed for the livery, "do you want to take a buggy?"

"No," she answered realizing just how slow a buggy would be. "I want to reach Jarrod as soon as possible. I want to be with him no matter what happens."

"Agreed," he said as they got horses and headed off toward the Payute village.

Tom continued to give Jarrod the liquid that smelled terrible and probably tasted even worse. Jarrod had not regained consciousness since he had several hours ago and that had Tom worried as well. He prayed that Victoria and the doctor would arrive soon. Or they may just be burying Jarrod.

Tom heard horses and knew his wife had arrived. Standing up from where he had been sitting beside of Jarrod, Tom headed out of the tent. Once he emerged, he saw his wife and son along with the doctor. Tom released a sigh of relief as he walked up to them.

"Tom," she asked as she rushed to him, "is he still..."

"Yes," he answered taking her in his arms to comfort her. "I’ve been giving him something the medicine man had mixed up. It smells terrible. Doc, I’m glad you’re here. Maybe you can help him more. I’m not sure this stuff is really helping him."

"I would like to see Jarrod," the doctor said looking at Tom.

He’s in here," he replied walking to the tent.

When they went inside, Victoria could see her son lying on a bed of skins. She rushed to his side. The doctor also went to Jarrod to examine him.

"Doc," he said holding out the cup of liquid, "this is what I’ve been giving Jarrod. Red Cloud said it was some different herbs used for healing. I have my doubts."

The doctor took the cup examining the contents.

"This is an herbal remedy and I believe it will help with his fever but as for his concussion, time will heal that." the doctor said still examining him. "He has some bruises and abrasions but those will also heal in time."

"Is he going to make it?" she asked looking at the doctor. "I mean he is so weak and with all his injuries does he have a chance?"

"I believe so," the doctor answered finally looking up. "I’m going to stay with him to make sure. Did Red Cloud say anything about the length of Jarrod’s stay here?"

"He said it would take a long time," he said looking at the doctor. "He say desert hurt Jarrod. I know what hurt him and it walked on two feet. Let me tell you if I find those responsible, they may not have all their body parts when I’m finished with them."

"Tom," the doctor replied still looking at Jarrod, "you’re not giving this medicine man much credit. If it hadn’t been for Red Cloud and the medicine man you would now be burying him rather than knowing that he has a good chance for survival."

"I’m very relieved doctor," she said looking at her son. "Can I try talking to him? I want to let him know that I’m here with him."

"Certainly," the doctor remarked as he pulled out a few items from his medical bag. "I think he needs to know that you are all here with him urging him to get well."

"So am I," he replied as he looked at Jarrod again. "I feel better with you here. It’s not that I don’t trust Black River. I just trust you more. I don’t completely understand what he’s doing to Jarrod."

"Most of the medicine men I have had any dealings with are very sincere in trying to help whoever is ill," the doctor told them. "They know of all the herbs that can aid in healing the patient. He hasn’t hurt Jarrod. In fact, Jarrod may get better sooner than if he had been in my office."

"I hope so," he said trying to smile. Because I don’t know what I’ll do if he dies."

Victoria sat down beside of Jarrod, taking his hand in hers. She looked at her son and her heart went out to him.

"Honey," she said looking at him, "you’re going to be all right. I know you are. You are a strong young man. You just rest."

Jarrod’s eyes slowly opened and he looked up to see his mother.

"Mother," he said but it was just a whisper, "father told me you were coming. I’m glad you’re here. You could always make it easier for me when I was sick."

"How do you feel?" she asked hoping that he didn’t hurt any longer.

"Weak," he answered. "I still have a headache."

"You will have," the doctor said as he came into view. "Jarrod, you have a serious concussion. You will have to stay quiet to let your head heal. And I mean quiet. You also need to drink liquids. In time, this will all be a bad dream."

"I understand," he replied nodding but stopping when his head threatened to explode. "Where is Red Cloud? I owe him my life. He found me and kept me alive. I really thought I was a dead man after those two men beat me up. But then he arrived."

"He’s with his father," Tom told him smiling. "We’re lucky he came along when he did. I shudder to think what might have happened if he hadn’t."

"I might have met up with more like those two that beat me up for fun," he said remembering what they had done to him. "All I wanted was a little water. My mouth was so dry. But all they wanted was to see just how much abuse I could take."

"How many were there?" Tom asked trying to learn what he could. "If you can describe them, it might lead to their capture."

Two of them," he answered thinking back. "And when I was brought out here I believe there was two also. I saw one of the men very clearly but the other one was behind me and that’s when he hit me."

"Exactly what happened Jarrod," Tom said wanting to know whether Jarrod knew who had stranded him out here.

"I went to see a man in Carson City that Sandra had told me her boyfriend worked for," he replied trying to remember. "His name was Henry Radcliff. He supposedly sold books but from the expensive office he had and the missing item in the crate, I believe he was involved in counterfeiting. I can’t be positive but when I mentioned that to Radcliff, he appeared to be very nervous."

"I’ll take care of having him arrested when we get to town," Tom told him but that might pose a small problem. "He’s going to spend a long time behind bars if we can convict him."

"Father," he said trying to stay awake, "I’ll have him arrested. I believe that he is the one that had Paul Davis murdered framing Sandra in the process. I have to get her out of jail. And I need to get back to San Francisco as soon as possible. Her inquest is scheduled for Monday. What do you mean you don’t know whether he’ll be arrested."

"Son," he remarked, "Henry Radcliff is a very wealthy man. I don’t know whether he owns the law or the judge. If you’re not careful, this whole thing could blow up in our faces."

"I’m afraid you won’t be able to make it," the doctor replied looking at his patient and changing the subject. "As I told you earlier, you have a serious concussion, a fever, sun stroke, bruises and abrasions along with that exposure. You’re going to be flat of your back for the next week at least."

"I can’t," he told the doctor trying to sit up. "I have to get back. I have to defend Sandra."

Tom eased Jarrod back onto his bed. He knew that Jarrod wanted to do this himself but he wasn’t physically able.

"Son," Tom said as he looked at Jarrod, "you listen to the doctor. He knows what’s best."

"Yes sir," he replied but he wasn’t happy. "Would someone wire Adam to let him know so he can make arrangements to delay the inquest until I can get there? Or hire another lawyer if he chooses."

"Sure we will," Tom told him nodding. "In fact, Nick will go right now."

"That’s right," Nick said walking closer so Jarrod could see him. "I’ll send that wire and you listen to the doctor. There is a lot of work waiting at the ranch for both of us plus your job with Adam."

"All right," he replied smiling letting his tired eyes close.

Nick left the tent heading for Carson City.

Over the next several days, Jarrod began to heal. He was still weak but the fever finally came down and the headache slowly passed. Jarrod was now able to sit up but the doctor had forbid him to get up and walk until he could regain some of his strength. Black River had left the rest of Jarrod’s recovery with Dr. Merrar. He had to return to the desert to commune with the Great Spirit as he did very often. But he was happy that Jarrod was getting better.

"You’ve come a long way Jarrod," the doctor said as he examined Jarrod again. "But you’re not well as of yet. So I don’t want you trying to do too much until you are stronger. If you continue to improve, you’ll be able to head for home in a few days."

"Doc," he replied trying to make them understand how he felt, "I need to get back for Sandra. Her inquest is day after tomorrow. She is going to be convicted if I don’t find some way of proving her innocent. Radcliff is that way. He had her boyfriend killed and then framed her. He had me disposed of so I wouldn’t ruin what he had going. I need to do all this now before he leaves town."

"Son," the doctor told him, "I don’t want to have to sedate you. But I will if you don’t listen to me. You are still much too weak to take on anything other than regaining your strength. I understand how you feel but if I allow you to go back and you have a relapse, you could be out of work indefinitely. So either way she is not going to have a lawyer that is capable of defending her. I want you to wait at least several more days before you ask me again. Is that clear?"

"Yes sir," he said but he wasn’t happy.

"Jarrod," Nick replied as he walked closer to Jarrod, "I sent that wire a few days ago. I’m sure Adam has made other arrangements by now. He probably got a continuance or something."

"I hope so," he told them. "Otherwise that very nice lady will end up in prison for the rest of her life for a crime she didn’t commit. Why did I have to end up figuring out what was going on? If I had only kept my mouth shut, I wouldn’t have ended up in that desert. I told Radcliff that I thought Paul Davis was mixed up in counterfeiting. I didn’t think about it at the time but I believe I noticed a slight change in his expression. He knew that I knew about his secret. And he had to get rid of me. I just wish I could have saved Sandra’s life. "

"It will all have to wait," the doctor said smiling. "I don’t want to repeat myself again."

"I understand," he replied nodding. "I’ll wait but I’m not happy."

"Son," Tom told him, "you are going to be able to clear all of this up when you get well. But in the meantime I want you to do exactly what the doctor tells you. We came very close to loosing you. Do you realize that?"

"Yes sir," he said looking at Tom. "I’m sorry I didn’t handle the situation better."

"You handled it as well as you could," she replied. "But he made the decision to have you taken to the desert and left. He didn’t want to kill you himself."

"Your mother is right," Tom told him. "I probably would have done the same thing if I had been in his boots."

"Tom," she said looking at him, "I hope you wouldn’t do anything like that to anyone."

"I didn’t mean that I would," he replied trying to explain. "I only meant that if I were Radcliff, I would have handled it in the same manner."

"Father," he told him, "I really believe that I can get her freed. But I need to confront Radcliff. If he knows he’s no longer safe, then maybe he will make a mistake and I can have him arrested. Although I’m pretty sure he didn’t really kill Davis. He probably had men who worked for him to do the actual killing. I’m willing to bet that the same men knocked me out and deposited me in the desert. If I could find them, maybe they would agree to testify against him."

"It will have to wait Jarrod," the doctor said looking at him with a stern expression. "As I told you, you are far too weak to try anything yet. In a few days I feel that you will be able to do what needs doing. Until then, rest."

"Yes sir," he replied nodding at the doctor. "I’ll try."

"Honey," she told him smiling, "you better get some rest. Chief Bohanna said that you could stay here as long as you needed to."

"He’s a very nice man mother," he said looking at her. "I am most thankful to him, his son and Black River. I owe Red Cloud my life and I intend to pay him back someday."

"You will," she replied. "For now sleep."

Jarrod nodded letting his tired eyes close.

"He is a stubborn boy," Tom said looking at his son. "You just about have to threaten him to get him to listen."

"And where does he get that from?" she asked already knowing the answer.

"You don’t mean me I hope," he answered. "I’m not that stubborn."

"Oh no," she said looking at him. "What about the time you broke your hand while trying to break that horse?"

"I was mad then," he replied trying to explain. "I had to prove it to the horse."

"How did you break your hand father?" Nick asked very curious.

"It happened when Jarrod was a young boy," she answered remembering that day very well. Your father had recently bought a new horse that wasn’t completely broken. Instead of letting one of the hands try breaking it, Tom decided to do it himself."

"So your father climbed up on the horse and tried to break him," she said coming back to the present. The only problem was that the horse was just as stubborn as he was. It wouldn’t yield to him and ended up throwing him. That didn’t hurt Tom but then the horse became very agitated and stomped on his left hand. The doctor said that it was broken in several places. And he didn’t listen to the doctor either."

"A couple of hours later your father was working in the study when I heard him say a few choice words," she said as she continued to tell the story. "I went in there to see if there was anything I could do to help. Your father was pacing the room holding his broken hand in the other one. I knew that the pain was unbearable for him. But I didn’t say anything."

"I said it first," Tom replied picking up on the story.

"Did the doctor give you anything?" Nick asked Tom.

"Yes," Tom answered smiling at his son. "I had to practically beg him but he did. My hand healed and your mother has never let me forget it."

"I wanted to prove a point to Jarrod," she said looking over at her oldest son. "He has his father’s stubbornness."

"I guess you’re right," Tom replied also looking at Jarrod. "I know Nick does."

"I’m proud of it too," Nick told them smiling. "It really comes in handy for me."

"Sometimes you need it but sometimes you don’t," she said. "And right now your brother doesn’t need it. He needs to listen and do what the doctor said."

"Don’t worry mother," Nick replied smiling. "He’ll listen eventually."

After receiving a telegram from Nick explaining that Jarrod would be unable to make it back to San Francisco by the date of the scheduled inquest, Adam had gone to see Judge Rhyne in his chambers trying to get a continuance to give Jarrod time to heal.

"Judge," he said as he tried to explain why Jarrod was not going to be in court, "I want you to hold off on the inquest. Sandra’s lawyer is indisposed at the moment. He won’t be available to defend her for at least a week."

"I see," the judge replied looking at Adam. "All right. I’ll give you one more week. If her attorney is not present, an attorney will be appointed for her."

"Thank you," he told the older man. "Jarrod will be back by then I’m sure."

"Jarrod?" the judge asked recognizing the first name. "Would his last name by any chance be Barkley?"

"Yes your honor," he answered wondering how the judge knew Jarrod. "His father is Tom Barkley of Stockton. Why? Is there a problem?"

"No," the judge said smiling. "I know Tom and I had met Jarrod many years ago when he was probably about ten years old. Bright boy. I always figured he’d go some other route than ranching. Didn’t appear to me to be interested in ranch work. It seemed to me that he always had his nose stuck in a book."

"Yes he is," he replied smiling. "He is working for me and when my secretary was arrested for the murder of her boyfriend, I knew I had to have him defend her."

"I don’t blame you," the judge told him understanding. "I wonder if he has any of the ambitions that his father does. He would make a good governor. Tom has a way with people and I wonder if that rubbed off on young Barkley."

"I don’t know," he said trying to remember. "All I know is that I want that boy to succeed. I thought having him work for me for six months would be better than having him clerk in a large attorney’s office. Jarrod is cut out for law. I’ve known it since the first day I ever saw him. You don’t have to win me over. I’m already sold."

"Just exactly where is he?" the judge asked sensing something in the way Adam spoke about Jarrod. "Has something happened that I should be aware of?"

"Well," he answered, "Jarrod went to Carson City to see the employer of Paul Davis. He’s a man named Radcliff. I’m not sure exactly what happened but after Jarrod met with this man, he was abducted and stranded in the desert. I believe that he must have tipped his hand to Radcliff and that’s why the man had to get rid of him. I’m sure that the name Barkley kept Jarrod from being killed right then. No one wants to kill a Barkley. They are too well known and respected."

"Is he all right?" the judge asked concerned about Jarrod. "How long will he be gone?"

"He’s at the Payute Indian village being treated for dehydration, a concussion and a fever," he answered trying to explain what he knew. "The doctor won’t let him up for several days. But he assured me that Jarrod would be fine. Nick told me in the wire that Jarrod was going after the man he felt was responsible for the murder."

"I see," the judge said thinking. "If Jarrod is right about Henry Radcliff, it will ruin the reputation of a man who is very respected in the state of Nevada. I hope young Mr. Barkley can produce the proof. People in Nevada feel the same way about Henry Radcliff that the people of California feel about Tom Barkley. I hate to hear that Henry has gone the illegal route. He sure has a business head and could have done very well for himself it he hadn’t gotten mixed up in counterfeiting."

"He can," he replied coming to Jarrod’s defense. "He knows who is behind it all and all he has to do is make them tell him what he needs to know. And if Radcliff won’t admit his part, it’s possible the two men who did the actual killing will talk. If Jarrod gets their testimony, Sandra will be freed."

"I’ll tell the district attorney," the judge told him standing up. "If Jarrod is not here in one week, the case will be turned over to another attorney. Is that clear Adam?"

"Yes sir," he said leaving the judge’s chambers and feeling relieved that he had bought Jarrod some more time.

Adam sent a wire to Jarrod in Carson City to inform him that he had one more week. If he couldn’t make it to court, another attorney would be appointed to defend Sandra. And he doubted that any other attorney would even take the case. And even if one did, he felt that the way the case had already gone, the lawyer would probably make her plead guilty to a lesser charge. Which means she would still have to spend time in prison. Adam didn’t think Sandra was capable of surviving in prison. She was too naive. All he could do was wait and try to keep Sandra’s spirits up.

"Mr. Howard," she said as she sat in the visiting room of the police station, "what do you mean Jarrod has been delayed? I thought everything had been taken care of. He promised me he would get me released. Now you tell me that he won’t even be here for the inquest. What exactly is going on?"

"There was a slight problem and Jarrod has been detained in Carson City," he replied trying to cheer her up. "Don’t worry. He’ll get everything straightened out."

"What kind of problem?" she asked worried. "He’s my only hope."

"He knows who is behind the murder," he answered smiling. "And once he has him arrested, your case will be dismissed."

"Why can’t he come back?" she asked trying to figure out what was going on. "I want to know the reason. I have a right."

"Sandra," he answered looking into her face, "Jarrod has been injured."

"Oh no!" she cried not wanting to believe her. "How bad?"

"He was stranded in the desert for several days," he said as calmly as he could. "He has been found but he ended up with a concussion, and a fever."

"Who found him?" she asked.

"An Indian brave," he answered. "Jarrod is still under a doctor’s care and until he is released there’s nothing we can do but wait."

"Why was he left in the desert?" she asked wanting to know everything.

"All right," he answered trying to fill her in and not leave anything out. "Jarrod went to see a man named Henry Radcliff."

"Yes," she said remembering Paul mentioning that name. "Paul told me that Mr. Radcliff was his boss."

"Jarrod told him that he believed that Paul was murdered by someone other than you," he replied continuing with the story. "He casually mentioned that the missing item from the crate could have been a printing press used in making counterfeit money. Radcliff became very upset after Jarrod left. So he had a couple of his men get rid of Jarrod by stranding him in the desert. A young Indian brave found him and took him to his village where his medicine man was able to help him begin to heal. There is a doctor now with him and he thinks Jarrod will be up and around in a few more days. So the judge has set a week from today for the inquest. If Jarrod doesn’t make it back, another attorney will be appointed to represent you."

"I don’t want anyone else," she told him. "I want Jarrod."

"Will you stop making yourself upset?" he said trying to keep her calm. "He’ll be back by then and he’ll have the proof to have the charges against you dismissed."

"I understand," she said. "I hope he gets well soon."

"So do I," he replied smiling.

When Jarrod was told about what the judge had said, he was relieved.

"I wanted to try this case," he said looking at his family. "I need to know whether I am worthy of being called a counselor at law. It’s hard when you’ve never been in court except in classroom exercises. I need to know if I can read a juror’s expressions to see what he is thinking or a witness to see if they are telling the truth. How am I going to get that experience if I don’t get a case?"

"You are son," Tom replied smiling. "If you weren’t, Adam Howard would never have hired you. He thinks you have what it takes to make a fine lawyer. And for that matter so do I."

"I believe it also," his mother said smiling. "You have a bright future ahead of you."

"True," he told his father and his mother. "I need to figure out how to get Radcliff."

"Honey," she said trying to keep him focused on getting well first, "you need to wait until you are better."

"I am better!" he cried wanting to get up and get this murder case solved.

"Jarrod," Tom said looking at his son with an expression of anger, "I don’t want to hear you raise your voice to your mother. I don’t care if you are sick or not."

"Yes sir," he replied looking over at his mother. "I’m sorry. I only have a week. I want to get the man responsible for murdering Davis and almost killing me."

"Son," Tom told him, "you need to tell the sheriff of Carson City everything that you know. Then he can take Radcliff into custody."

"Father," he said shaking his head, "I can’t do that."

"Why not?" Tom asked not understanding. "It’s clearly a case of Radcliff hiring someone to kill that man and strand you."

"Henry Radcliff is a very powerful man in this state," he answered. "I may not be able to convince the sheriff to arrest him. He’s kind of like you are in the state of California."

"Why not?" she asked not understanding.

"Because he could have the law in his pocket so to speak," he answered nodding. "I’m not sure of anything at this point. But I also can’t rule out anything. I have to be very careful trying to get my proof."

"So you think this Radcliff hired someone to go to San Francisco to kill Paul Davis and then frame Adam’s secretary for the crime?" Tom asked trying to see it from Jarrod’s point of view.

"Yes sir," he answered wanting to explain his suspicions to them. "I also know that the two men that took me to the desert are probably the ones who did the actual killing. I just have to prove it all."

"Jarrod," Red Cloud said after listening to what his family had said, "I may be able to help you."

"What do you mean?" he asked looking at the young brave.

"I was in town last week," Red Cloud answered trying to explain what he knew. "I hear man called Radcliff tell two men to take care of problem they have. He say that problem is Paul Davis. He say get greedy."

"You heard this Red Cloud?" he asked perking up. "If that is true then Davis was a liability to them and had to be eliminated. I believe that after Sandra ran from the room that Paul Davis got up. I don’t believe the wound in his stomach was that bad. He got up; tried to treat the wound, put on a fresh shirt and someone paid him a visit. They might have gotten into an argument over money and Davis was killed. Then the next stage of the plan went into place. They decided to frame Sandra by making it look like she had killed Paul. Now all I have to do is prove it."

"Yes," Red Cloud answered. "But not help you. I no testify. Town no like Red Cloud. No trust."

"We’ll just see about that," he said smiling. "Do you know whether or not anyone else heard that?"

Red Cloud thought about the question. Then he remembered.

"Yes," he said remembering that day. "Hotel man hear."

"The clerk?" Jarrod asked thinking back to what the clerk had told him.

"Yes," he answered.

"That’s great," Jarrod said getting excited at the prospect of clearing Sandra. "I had a talk with him before I saw Radcliff and he seemed to think there was more to all this then met the eye. He’s my witness and then Sandra will be freed."

"Good," he replied smiling. "Jarrod good man."

"Thanks Red Cloud," Jarrod told him smiling. "If it weren’t for you I wouldn’t be here now."

"Only doing what need to be done," he said trying to wave off what he did for Jarrod.

"I want to do something to help you," Jarrod replied looking at the young brave.

"If my people get in trouble," he told him, "you get out."

"Sure I will," Jarrod said smiling. "Thanks for everything."

"You welcome," he replied smiling.

"Barkley family," Chief Bohanna told them before they left, "you take care. I want young brave to work hard. If Red Cloud could speak, he would say truth."

"I know that sir," Jarrod said looking at the older man. "I think I’ll be able to clear all this up once I get back to Carson City."

The Barkleys along with Dr. Merrar left the Indian village.

The Barkley family returned to Carson City along with Dr. Merrar. Jarrod went to the sheriff’s office to see if the law would help him or not.

"Sheriff," he said as he walked in, "I’m Jarrod Barkley, an attorney from Stockton and San Francisco. I have a complaint."

"You’re who?" the man asked as he looked up. "I didn’t catch the name."

"I said I was Jarrod Barkley," he answered a little aggravated at this man for not listening to what he had said. "I’m an attorney."

"What’s the complaint?" the man asked looking at him.

"I want you to arrest Henry Radcliff on an attempted murder charge," he answered watching for the sheriff’s reaction. "As well as hiring two men to murder Paul Davis in San Francisco."

"Are you crazy?" the man asked him. "I couldn’t do that. Mr. Radcliff is a very respected man. He wouldn’t murder anyone. You are mistaken and I could lock you up for slandering a man’s name and reputation."

"I didn’t say he did," he answered trying to explain in more detail. "I said he hired the men responsible for almost killing me and for killing Davis."

"You got any proof?" the man asked wondering what this young man would show him. "Ain’t no way I’d arrest him if I wanted to without concrete proof."

"Yes," he answered telling the rest of his story. "I saw one of the men clearly before I was knocked out and I would recognize him if I saw him again."

"All right," the man said nodding. "I’ll give you that. But how do you know they work for Mr. Radcliff? They could be anyone here in town. Just because you saw one of them don’t prove they work for him."

"I had a long discussion with him the day I disappeared," he replied standing his ground. "I mentioned counterfeiting and I got a rise out of him. He didn’t say anything but his expression did. My client in San Francisco is going to stand trial for a murder she didn’t commit. I’m the one who can clear her. But I need Radcliff to do it."

"And how do you propose to get him?" the man asked waiting to hear the young man’s answer.

"I am going to confront him with the truth," he answered looking at the sheriff. "And I believe he will either hang himself or his men will come forward. If I could get to them away from him, they might be willing to make a deal. One way or the other, I will get Henry Radcliff."

"Al right," the man said nodding. "I’ll arrest him if he does say he had anything to do with the murder. But I am still having a hard time believing that a man like Henry Radcliff could be involved in anything illegal."

"That’s all I’m asking," he replied getting ready to leave.

"Just a minute," the sheriff told him stopping Jarrod from leaving.

Jarrod turned to look at him.

"Who did you say you were again?" he asked looking at Jarrod with a look of recognition on his face.

"Jarrod Barkley," Jarrod answered wondering why the sheriff had asked again.

"Are you any relation to Tom Barkley?" he asked wondering.

"My father," Jarrod answered looking at the man.

"I thought so," he said nodding. "You don’t have to worry young man. I’ll do everything I can to help you prove it."

"What made you change your mind?" Jarrod asked a little confused.

"Your name," he answered smiling. "I remember meeting your father some ten years ago at a murder trial in Stockton. I was escorting the accused and we bumped into each other. He told me he had children but didn’t elaborate. I always wondered how he was doing."

"He’s here in town," Jarrod said nodding. "He came as soon as he found out I was missing."

"I would have too if it had been my son," he replied understanding how Tom felt. "It’s not easy when you are confronted with the fact that your child has been taken from you."

"You sound like you know about this from experience," Jarrod told him.

"I do," he said remembering a horrible episode from his own past. "I was a deputy in a wild town. I had just started working there. My wife and son, who was ten, were at our home. One night there was some trouble at one of the saloons. I was told by the sheriff to take care of it. As I went inside, I saw a drunken cowboy beating the heck out of another cowboy. I immediately broke up the fight and arrested the one who had started the ruckus. After I had him locked up, he told me that his brother would be coming to look for him. I didn’t really believe him at the time so I went back to the office. When I went home that night..."

The sheriff stopped talking because he was getting very upset as he remembered what he had seen when he went home.

"Anyway," he said pulling himself back together, "I walked into the house and that’s when I saw them. My wife and son were dead. My wife had been beaten to death. My son, Tyler, had been stabbed over and over and over."

"Did you find those responsible?" Jarrod asked concerned for what the man had gone through.

"Yes," he answered nodding. "I wanted to kill them but to this day, I don’t know why I didn’t but I didn’t. I instead locked them up to stand trial. They did and I testified. I learned that the man who had caused the fight in the saloon was a member of a very rough pack of men called hounds. They loved to kill and hurt people. The rest of his pack went to my house where they killed my wife and son. They were convicted and sent to prison but my family was gone. I gave up being a lawman for a long time but I soon realized that I could hopefully stop that from happening to another man. So I came back. My son would be about your age. I guess I feel something toward you."

"I’m very sorry about your family," Jarrod said. "I would have felt the same way."

"Thank you for listening," he replied opening up for the first time. "You’re the first person I’ve told this to. I didn’t want to bring up old bitter memories but something about you reminds me of Tyler. You tell your father just how lucky a man he is. Children can be taken away in an instant."

"I will sir," Jarrod told him heading out the door.

As Jarrod walked, he thought about what the sheriff had told him.

"I don’t know what I would have done if I had been in that situation," he said as he walked. "But I don’t think I would have arrested them. I would have probably killed them with my bare hands."

Jarrod walked into the hotel where his parents and brother were.

"Did you speak to the sheriff?" she asked as he walked into their hotel room.

"Yes," he answered smiling. "He’s going to help me. Now all we have to do is confront Radcliff."

"Son," Tom said looking at his son, "I wish you would reconsider this. It could escalate into violence."

"That’s what I’m banking on," he replied. "If I can scare Radcliff enough to tip his hand then I’ll have the proof I need."

"And you could wind up dead," Tom told him trying to reason with Jarrod. "Let the sheriff handle it."

"No," he said looking at Tom with determination. "This is something I must do. I have to prove something to you and to myself."

"You have nothing to prove to me," Tom replied.

"I think I do," he told him nodding. "I want to show you and everyone else that I am worthy of being a lawyer and a Barkley."

"You don’t have to prove to me that you are a Barkley," Tom said looking at his oldest son. "I know you are."

"That’s not the point," he replied. "I want to earn the right to bear the name and the title. And I can’t do that if I don’t stand up for myself. I can’t rely on you and Nick to handle my fights. I have to do it."

Tom nodded understanding exactly what Jarrod meant.

"But you can’t do this alone," he said looking at his family. "Nick and I can go in the back way. If we run into anyone that works for Radcliff, we can persuade them the best thing to do would be to testify against him."

Jarrod thought about what Tom had said.

"I agree," Nick said smiling. "I am frankly looking forward to a fight."

"You’re always ready to fight," he replied smiling. "All right father. I guess I can use your help."

"I knew you would see it our way," Tom told him. "Let’s get this over with.

They left the hotel and headed for the office of Henry Radcliff. Tom and Nick along with the sheriff, who they met outside of the hotel, put their plan into motion. Jarrod walked into Henry Radcliff’s office. The other three men went in the back way where they ran into Grayson and Bingham.

"You two are in a heap of trouble," Tom said whispering so Radcliff couldn’t hear him.

"What do you mean?" Grayson asked.

"Let me put it into words that you might be able to understand," the sheriff answered. "If you had anything to do with that young lawyer being left in the desert to die, I want you to tell me. If you don’t, you will be arrested anyway because I know he will be able to identify one of you. It’s up to you."

The two men looked at each other. They finally nodded.

"It was Radcliff’s idea," Grayson said nervously. "He told us that Paul Davis was getting to greedy for his own good. He wanted the problem to be eliminated. So we went to San Francisco. We confronted Paul after the girl had run out. He was standing up wrapping a bandage around his stomach."

"I had moved behind Paul, picking up the paper opener," Grayson said coming back to the present. "Bingham walked toward Paul who began to back up. The next thing I knew the opener plunged into his back. He crumbled to the floor. We got scared."

"So we moved Paul to a chair," Bingham replied picking up the rest of the story. "We sat him in it to make it look like the girl had killed him."

"Well you two will be spending a long time behind bars if you don’t hang first," the sheriff told him.

"What if we testify against Radcliff?" Grayson asked.

"I could see if I could get you life in prison," he answered. "After all, you did kill a man and almost killed that lawyer."

"We’ll take it," Bingham said nodding to Grayson who also agreed. "But you have to protect us from him."

"You’ll be protected," he replied nodding. "I promise."

Now they waited to see what happened between Jarrod and Radcliff.

When Radcliff saw Jarrod, he was completely shocked.

"What’s the matter?" he asked seeing the man’s expression. "You surprised to see that I’m still alive?"

"Uh," Radcliff answered trying to sound convincing but not succeeding, "no. I heard you were missing."

"You heard it or you set it up?" he asked trying to get the answer he wanted from the man.

"How dare you accuse me of setting anything up?" Radcliff remarked with force. "I am a businessman. I don’t go around killing people or making them disappear."

"Who has his hands in counterfeiting," he said finishing the sentence. "I saw your expression. I know you were Paul Davis’ boss. And I also know you set up the murder of Paul Davis as well as my disappearance."

"I never denied that Davis worked for me," Radcliff replied trying to talk his way out this. "But you are wrong about the counterfeiting. I am an honest businessman."

"Am I?" he asked smiling. "OK Nick bring them in."

Nick and Tom along with the sheriff walked in from behind Radcliff escorting the two men who had kidnapped Jarrod and killed Davis.

"It’s true," Grayson said looking at Radcliff. "He hired us to get rid of Davis and frame the girl."

"And when you arrived in town," Bingham replied looking at him too, "we were to get rid of you."

"All right sheriff," he told them, "he’s all yours."

The sheriff took Henry Radcliff into custody.

"You haven’t heard the last of me boy," he said as he was escorted out. "I’ll get even with you. I promise. I’m a big man and you just signed your death warrant."

"Radcliff," the sheriff replied looking at him, "I suggest you shut up. You’re only digging yourself in deeper."

"Good job son," Tom told him as he walked over to Jarrod and put his arm around the younger man’s shoulder. "I knew you would make a fine lawyer."

"Thanks father," he said smiling. "Now to wire Adam. Sandra will be released and Radcliff will stand trial for murder and attempted murder. Of course, I will have to testify at his trial. But I will be looking forward to putting that man away for hopefully the rest of his life."

When Tom, Jarrod and Nick arrived back at the hotel room, Victoria was very relieved to see them and know they were all right.

Is it over?" she asked as they walked in.

"Yes mother," Jarrod answered nodding. "Radcliff’s two hired killers confessed and Radcliff was arrested. Sandra is now a free woman."

"I’m proud of you Jarrod," Victoria replied hugging him. "You stuck by her. She’s lucky to have a lawyer like you."

"I appreciate that mother," he told her smiling. "I better get back to San Francisco. I’ll see you later."

"Yes," they said as one.

By the time Jarrod arrived back in San Francisco, Sandra Johanson had been freed. The sheriff of Carson City had sent a wire to Adam explaining what had transpired. Adam immediately took it to the judge.

"Your honor," he said as he walked into the judge’s chambers, "I have a telegram that will clear Sandra Johanson of murder."

"Let me see it," the judge replied as he was handed the paper.

He read it and then looked up.

"It would seem that this young lawyer did what he said he would," the judge said looking up at Adam.

"I had faith in Jarrod," he replied smiling. "And so did Sandra."

"I’ll inform the inspector," the judge told him. "One thing."

"What?" he asked stopping and turning back to the man.

"When this young lawyer arrives in town," the judge answered. "I would like very much to meet him."

"I think that can be arranged," he said leaving the judge’s chambers.

Jarrod arrived in San Francisco that afternoon. As he walked into Adam’s office, a happy Sandra met him.

"I don’t know how to thank you Jarrod," she said smiling. "You stood by me and I know at one point that you didn’t believe me."

"It wasn’t that I didn’t believe you," he replied trying to explain. "It was just that too many things didn’t add up right."

"I’m just glad it’s over," Adam told them. "And I’m glad that I picked the right man for the job."

"Thanks Adam," he said smiling.

"What do you two say we get some work done now?" Adam asked smiling.

"Yes sir," she answered also smiling.

"I’m with you," he said smiling too.

"Oh by the way," Adam replied looking at Jarrod, "the judge wants to meet you."

"Me?" he asked surprised.

"Yes," Adam answered nodding. "He was very impressed with the way you handled this case. I don’t think you have to worry about clients. You just started off on the right foot."

Jarrod smiled and went to work.