The Kid's Brother

Billy the Kid had a brother whose name was Joe and after the Kid's death he let everyone know that he would kill Pat Garrett unmercifully on sight for killing his brother on that mournful night. Joe and a friend were drinking in a saloon when Pat Garrett unexpectedly entered the room. Garrett then approached Joe and said this to him, "Have a drink with me and I'll explain what really happened." Joe then excused himself from his friend and joined Garrett at a table on the bar's other end. Both spoke briefly, shook hands and parted ways. Joe's friend then asked him, "What did he say?" Joe looked at him and said to his friend, "Like he said, he explained to me what really happened." * The above is all true according to documented history. The following however is my own fantasy. * Both of their eyes locked hard on one another. Garrett then spoke with this grieving, vengeful brother. "Before I reveal anything to you I need your word that this stays between me and you. If word of this gets out your brother is as good as dead." Joe paused for a moment and then he said, "You killed my brother," he said fighting not to cry. "No I didn't," responded Garrett, "He's still alive. I killed the wrong man and claimed it was him. Your brother is on the run, but he's still living. All the residents of Fort Sumner are in compliance with me. They have all sworn themselves to secrecy and have signed affidavits certifying that the body buried at Fort Sumner is your brother. He's deceased officially. This is your brother's last opportunity to go underground and live his life more meaningfully. However, before he left he gave to me this letter for his brother Joe to read." Garrett handed Joe the letter, shook his hand and left. Joe opened the letter and this is what it read. "My Dear Brother Joe, I am still alive. Don't believe everything those newspapers write and contrive. It's so very difficult for me to let you all go but I'm starting my life anew in Old Mexico. Please know that loving thoughts of you will always be with me. Forever your brother, William H Bonney"