Summary:  Vignettes of life on the Ponderosa as well as Boston during Adam’s college years.

Rating:  K (10,835 words)

 

Boston Correspondence

 

Dear Ben,

Of course I meant it! The boy is very welcome to stay with me when he arrives before the beginning of the school year. After all these years I am very much looking forward to meeting my grandson and I will welcome the time with him. The house seems so empty now that Agnes is gone and a young person is just what I need around here to make it feel less lonely.

It’s hard to believe that it’s been eighteen years since the day you left with that little boy to head West. So much has happened since then that I suppose it must be, but Ben it just feels like last month in so many ways.

I’m looking forward to showing my grandson the Boston that I love. I promise that I will look after him to the best of my ability. Elizabeth would after all have wanted it that way.

 

Let me know of his arrival date and I’ll make sure that I’ll be there to meet him. If there’s anything I can do from this end to help with the arrangements, then you only have to ask.

God Bless,

Abel

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa,

 

It already seems like I’ve been away for years rather than just a few weeks. The trip went well, but I honestly didn’t realise how far Massachusetts is from Nevada. I suppose you have to actually experience something to truly understand. I know I was very glad to finally come to a halt and be able to fully unpack my bag after all those weeks of travelling. I don’t know how you coped all those years ago. Not only did you have yourself to worry about, but me as a small child as well. I have a new understanding of what you must have gone through on our journey west.

 

The trip wasn’t without it’s problems, but nothing that I couldn’t handle. I had a good look at Chicago on the over night layover and my first experience of a large city only served to demonstrate to me just how little I know of the world. I feel very much the country boy so far, but I’m sure that it will change as time goes by.

 

Grandpa met me as arranged and he is all that you said. He has made me most welcome so far and I have a large room over looking the harbour which suits me fine. I’ve spent the last couple of days just trying to rest and getting to know the neighbourhood. I haven’t even ventured to the College yet as I have plenty of time to get organised. Orientation Week isn’t for another couple of weeks as you know. It was a good suggestion of yours to arrive here a bit early. It’s given me a chance to catch my breath before the business of College overtakes me.

 

I don’t think it has sunk in yet just how far away from all of you I am. There hasn’t been much time for homesickness, although I’m sure it will hit me at some stage. Please give Hoss and Little Joe my love and tell them that I miss them.

 

I must go now Pa, as I want to walk down to the Post Office and get this in the mail before it closes. I promise I will write again soon.

 

Your loving son,

Adam

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa, Hoss and Joe,

 

This has been a very busy week. I’ve spent most of it at the College getting to know my way around and I must admit that I didn’t realise just how big this place is. I don’t know that I’ll ever get used to it. There are so many students here that I feel a bit lost to tell you the truth.

 

Boston is a beautiful place and Grandpa has been kindly showing me around it. I love going down to the harbour and watching the ships coming and going. I can almost imagine you standing on one of the decks Pa. There is such a feel about the ocean I am beginning to understand just how you must have felt about your life here with my mother. It must have been hard for you to leave it, but I suppose that the lure of the West was pulling you away.

 

I am beginning to feel at home here now, and not quite the stranger I was a few weeks ago. I still miss all of you though. There are days when I just feel like getting back on the train to join you all again, but I know that its silly to feel that way. I am trying to make the most of this experience and I know that in time I will feel connected here. In the meantime, please forgive me if I sound a bit homesick.

 

Adam.

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

It was so good to hear from you. Don’t be ashamed of being homesick son, as there is nothing wrong with that. We miss you dreadfully too and would love to have you at home with us, but the experience of College is just going to be so valuable for you that I know it’s for the best. Give it time and you will settle in. Soon you’ll probably wonder why you ever felt this way.

Life here is busy as always with a thousand things to do all at once. I’ve taken on some more hands to help out with the timber and of course we have the usual branding to get on with. I am keeping very busy overseeing everything and looking out for your brothers.

 

I have included a letter from Hoss and one from Little Joe. As you can see, Hoss’ spelling has not improved. Joe says to tell you that the crosses stand for kisses and that he’ll write more when he learns how to. I think he expected that he’d be able to write anything he wants by now, even though I’ve tried to explain to him that it will take longer than the two months he’s been attending school.

 

Look after yourself son. I miss you.

 

Love from

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Deer Adam,

 

Scool is real lonely without ya. So is home. Do ya like Boston yet? I am loking after Sport good for ya. Joe is macking a fuss of going to scool and Pa had ta spank him. He don’t like going cause he says Miss Jones is meen. She is to. Pa is lonely without ya. So are me and Joe. I hope you are well.

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

 

Dear Pa , Hoss and Joe,

 

Thank you for the letters. It was so good to hear from you. I’m really getting lots of work now and the first batches of assignments are due soon. It helps to keep me busy and not feel so homesick.

 

The College is a fascinating place. I’m spending a lot of time in the library at present, mostly because I have so much work to do but also because I just love checking out all the wonderful books that are there. It’s hard to believe that I have them all at my disposal whenever I want. It’s like a treasure trove!

 

I’m glad things seem to be going well with the ranch Pa. I do miss the open spaces, as there are times when the city seems to be very constricting. I’ve found a great spot in the park overlooking the harbour where I can take a book and that helps a bit to feel the wind which reminds me of home. I can almost smell the pines if I lay up there and close my eyes.

 

I must go now, as I still have an assignment to finish by tomorrow.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Deer Adam,

 

I’m glad you like scool. I don’t and neither does Joe. Miss Jones gives us hard work. I want to leave but Pa says I can’t. He says I hafta look after Joe there. Will ya write and tell him ta let me leave Adam?

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Hoss,

 

I don’t think that you should leave school yet. Pa is right. You have to stay at school to look after Joe, but more importantly you need an education. I know it’s hard for you, but you have to hang in there buddy. I promise you that it will be worth it in the end.

 

I wish I could be home for Christmas too. Grandpa and I will be celebrating here together, but I’ll be thinking of you, Pa and Joe all day.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

Thank you for your letter. You are really improving with your writing. I have sent you a present for Christmas. I hope you like it. Be good for Pa and Hoss.

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Son,

 

A merry Christmas to you! I hope our presents arrived in time. We received your parcel a week ago. Needless to say, Hoss and Little Joe have been driving me crazy trying to persuade me to open it, so I finally had to hide it for fear that they would get to it when I wasn’t around.

 

I hope you aren’t too homesick at this time son. I know that it will be a comfort for your Grandfather to have you there this year, even if you would rather be here with us.   Just keep in mind that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you have the rest of your life to be with us back here on The Ponderosa.

 

Things are fairly quiet here at the moment due to the holiday season and the weather has kept us all inside for a great deal of the time. Hoss and Joe have had a few days off school and I must say that I’m thoroughly looking forward to them going back again. You know that I love them both dearly, but after a few days confined in the house with them is a bit wearing. Hop Sing has been threatening to go back to China again, but as usual I’m not taking any notice of him. Mind you, I feel like joining him after being cooped up with your brothers during this time.

 

There have been quite a few people asking after you during the last few weeks and they all send their regards. Paul Martin particularly asked to let you know that his cousin will be in Boston in February and will look you up. His name is Michael Martin and he’s a lawyer from Pittsburgh.

 

I miss you so much son. I hope that you and Abel are continuing to get on well. Wish him a Happy Christmas from me.

 

Your loving

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Ben,

 

Greetings for this joyous season. I hope that you and the boys have a wonderful Christmas. Adam is somewhat homesick as I’m sure you can imagine, due to the season. I have tried to make it a pleasant holiday for the boy, but I know that he longs to be with you and his brothers at this time.

 

You have done a wonderful job with the boy Ben and you should be very proud of him. He is settling well into College, although I do believe that he is finding the work a bit harder than he anticipated. He is an intelligent lad though and will soon come to grips with it all. I know that he is working extremely hard to keep up with his studies and doesn’t want to let you down.

 

During the Christmas break I am going to take him to his mother’s grave. He and I have had quite a few talks about her since he arrived and he seems very anxious to know as much as he can about her, which is understandable. Elizabeth would be very proud of her boy Ben, but I’m sure you know that.

 

Love from

Abel

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa,

Thank you for the wonderful package, which arrived just in time for Christmas. I really love all your gifts and they helped to make me feel less homesick.

 

Grandpa and I had a quiet but enjoyable Christmas. He has been very good to me and I am beginning to be very fond of him.

 

Grandpa took me to visit my mother’s grave yesterday. I’m glad he did, because now I can go and visit whenever I feel like it. It’s strange Pa, but even though I never knew her I feel really close to her here in the house where she grew up. It’s almost as if she’s here with me in a way. Grandpa has been telling me wonderful stories about her as a girl. I really didn’t know just how much we have in common really. She seems to have loved all the things that I do.

 

It’s nice to have a few days away from study I must admit. Even though I’m enjoying the work there is rather a lot of it and it’s sometimes hard to keep up. I’m so glad that I did all that work before I left home, otherwise I’d really be floundering here.

 

Yes Hoss, it does snow in Boston. In fact we had so much snow that we thought we might have been snowbound during the last few days. No Joe, it’s not cold enough for the ocean to freeze over, so you don’t have to worry about the ships getting caught in the ice.

 

I hope you both are enjoying your holiday from school. Please write soon, as I really look forward to getting your letters.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Well by now you’d be back into the work I’m sure. Son, I’m so glad that you have talked to your grandfather about your mother. It was one of the reasons I have been encouraging you to go to Boston during these past few years. I don’t think it’s at all strange that you feel connected with her there. I’m sure her spirit is with you wherever you may be, but it must certainly be stronger in the place that she lived in and loved so much. Please place some flowers on her grave for me when you visit. It will make me feel closer to her as well.

 

I’m so glad you are getting on with your grandfather. Abel is a good man and you should lean on him if you need support in any way. Don’t let the studies get you down too much. I’m sure you’ll do well and if you don’t…well I know that you will always do your best and that’s all that matters.

 

Hoss is still giving me worry about his attitude to school. He really wants to leave, but of course I’m trying to get through to him that he’s just too young. I appreciate you telling him the same thing in your letter. I know he won’t ever be the student that you are, but I do think that’s it’s essential that he have a basic education.

 

Joseph is giving me worries as well, but of course that’s nothing unusual. He also has an aversion to school and he is really feeling your absence at the moment. He couldn’t understand why you didn’t come home for Christmas and even though I’ve shown him how far Boston is in the atlas it is rather difficult for a six year old to understand.

 

I miss you too son. The house just seems so empty at night without you. I found Joe sleeping in your bed last night and I must admit I could understand his reasons for doing so. He said it made him feel like you are still here. There are nights when I can almost feel you sitting in the chair opposite me in front of the fire.

 

Take care of yourself son. God Bless.

 

Your loving

Pa.

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa,

 

Paul ‘s cousin ended up staying with us for a while which has been nice. He’s very like Paul in many ways and really inspired me with his conversation about the law. Part of me still thinks I should have gone into that area, but the Engineering is just so fascinating that I know I’ve made the right choice. I’m doing well at my studies now and have really got into the swing of it. It’s hard, but very satisfying.

 

Now that Spring is here I’m able to get out more and with the study being a bit easier I have more time to see Boston at its finest. It’s such an interesting place and just reeks of history at every corner. Grandfather has been coming with me on my various excursions and he says that he’s discovering the Boston he knew as a boy. He’s really nice Pa. I like to think he’s like my mother in many ways and maybe that’s why we get on so well.

 

I’ve made quite a few friends now and life is becoming hectic as I’m getting into the social life of College as well. They are all from varying parts of the country, although mostly from the east coast, so I’m receiving lots of invitations to visit their families. It looks like I’ll be gone for the whole Summer if this keeps up, but Grandpa says he doesn’t mind. He’s happy that I’m getting to see so many things.

 

Even though I’m really enjoying it here there are times when I just wish I could be with you all even if just for a day. I hope that Hoss and Joe aren’t giving you too much grief. I know how demanding those two (especially that youngest brother of mine) can be. Give them both a kiss for me and one for yourself as well.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Deer Adam,

 

Guess wot? Pa let me help with the roundup last week. I got two days off scool as well as the Easter holiday to go. Joe was mad cause he wanted to go to, but Pa said hes to little. I did good Pa said. He said that I can help with branding next. I hope you are well.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Hoss,

 

That’s wonderful news buddy. I’m sure that Pa was very glad to have your help with the roundup now that I’m not there. He tells me that you are doing better at school now as well. I’m proud of you, because I know it’s not easy for you. Look after Pa and Joe for me won’t you?

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

I was so pleased to get your letter. Your writing is getting so good now. You must be working hard at school. I am working hard as well. I’m missing you, Pa and Hoss a lot, but I’m keeping busy with lots to do here. My Grandpa is very good to me.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa,

 

Thank you for your recent letter. Life is very busy here, with lots to do. I am very busy with my work at College and I am beginning to feel that I can keep up with things here. The work is really interesting and most of the professors take a lot of time to explain things well.

 

I’ve made lots of friends now and am beginning to get to know Boston quite well. I can see why you loved it so much.

 

Grandpa says its alright if I go to Peter Jenkin’s folks place for part of the summer break. They live in Vermont so it should be nice at this time of the year. I can’t believe that I’m getting around so much, but I suppose that’s part of this trip…being able to see as much of the East while I’m here. Pete is a nice guy…you’d like him. He’s doing lots of the same subjects that I am.

 

I’m glad that Hoss is doing better at school now. I’m sure it’s partly to do with the fact that you’re letting him do more on the ranch. I think he needs to feel useful in that way. Tell Little Joe that I’ll try to find him a clipper ship like he asked me to, but please get through to him that it won’t be a very large one. I suspect he has visions of a full-scale ship in the mail!

Look after yourselves. I’ll write again when I get back from Vermont.

 

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence ***** 

 

Dear Adam,

 

I’m glad that you enjoyed Vermont. It sounds like a beautiful place. I’ve never been there myself, but perhaps one day I’ll make it. I agree that it’s been a wonderful experience for you to see the country while you’re over there and you should take ever opportunity you can to explore the area.

 

Abel wrote to me and told me how well you have done in your exams. Why didn’t you tell me son? I’m very proud of you! I know how hard you must have worked to achieve such marks. I just wish that your brothers had a bit of your commitment to their studies. Hoss is doing better now of course, but I know that he’d leave in an instant if I gave the word. He’s becoming such a help on the ranch to me. Sometimes it’s hard to remember that he’s only thirteen. That boy is a born rancher.

 

Joseph is in quite a bit of trouble at school lately. Abigail Jones is becoming very frustrated with him and I’ve been called in to see her several times. It seems that the boy was born to age me!

 

Look after yourself son.

Your loving

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

How are you? Pa says that it’s a year since you left here now. It seems longer. School is the same. Boring old Miss Jones is still nasty and Joe gets into lots of trubble. I try and keep an eye on him like ya want me to, but sometimes its hard Adam. Joe is too quick fer me. Pa spanks him lots. Pa lets me work on Saturdays now. Not chores, but real work. He says I’m good at it to.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa, Hoss and Joe,

 

Work is threatening to devour me at the moment and I don’t seem to have a moment to spare. It’s hard because even though I’m enjoying it all I also feel the need to have some time with my friends and have a bit of relaxation as well. Just as well we’re all going through it together so they understand.

 

Peter is finding the study a bit much at the moment and I’m trying to help him. His family was so good to me last summer that I feel I owe it to him in a way. His sister Charlotte and I have been writing to each other during the past few weeks. She is a lovely girl.

 

Grandpa and I went to see a production of Hamlet last week. One great thing about living in the city is that there is so much to do. I’ve discovered the museum and spend quite a bit of time there when I have it. It is a fascinating place!

 

I’m glad hear that things are going well with all of you. It seems strange to think that I’m already in my second year here. It really doesn’t seem that long since I left home. Already we’ve all had a birthday each and are a year older.

 

Thank you for the latest letters. It is always such a thrill to receive them!

 

I hope that you are all keeping well as I am.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

Happy birthday little buddy! I’m glad that you liked the ship. It is a model of one just like Pa would have sailed on. If you keep it on your dresser you can look at it when you wake up in the morning.

 

I hope that you’re being good for Pa and Hoss. Behave yourself at school as well.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

School is much betta now. I don’t mind it so much cause Pa lets me work on the ranch as well. I don’t know lots like you do but I can spell good now. Miss Jones says that Im betta at my work now. I sure wish ya was here ta help me with it though. Sums are hard sometimes. Pa helps me but your betta at it.

 

Joe is in trubble again. He don’t do his chores and Pa spanks him good. Pa says he tries his patients. I guess that meens that he gets mad. Joe don’t like school no betta neither.

 

I hope ya going well in Boston. Pa showed us in the atless where it is. Joe thinks ya shuld come home for a visit. So do I.

 

Im good at ranch work now. Pa says so. So does Charlie. I like ranch work. I will do it fulltime when I leave school.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Hoss,

 

It was great to receive your letter. I’ve noticed how much better your spelling is now buddy, you must be really growing up!

 

Pa ways that you’re doing really well on the ranch and you are a great help to him. I knew you would be.

 

I wish I could come home for a visit, but it’s just too far. I’m just about halfway through my course now, so really it won’t be too long until we’re altogether again. Try and keep Joe on the straight and narrow for me Hoss. I’m sure he’s giving Pa a hard time and Pa doesn’t need that with everything else he has to do while I’m gone.

 

I miss you a lot, especially our fishing afternoons together when we would just sit and talk for hours. When I come home we’ll have lots more of them.

 

Love to everyone,

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Deer Adam,

Can ya   tell Pa I want ta leve   scool?

I don’t like Miss   Jones.

Shes mean.

Can ya   Adam? please?

Your bruver

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

No I won’t ask Pa to let you leave school. You need to stay there to get a good education. Work hard and Miss Jones might be nicer to you. I hope you are well and are not being naughty for Pa. Remember to behave yourself.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

It was so good to receive your last letter son. It sounds like you are having a wonderful time at the moment. It’s good to hear to you are having a very full life apart from just studying. I know the study is important, but there are so many other things in life to enjoy and you should be making the most of your opportunities while you are there.

 

Your description of your friends makes them sound like a nice young group of men. Sarah sounds lovely too. If Abel approves of her family, then I’m sure she must be. Your grandfather says that you make a lovely couple.

 

Hoss is really blossoming with all the extra responsibilities I’ve been giving him. Nothing is beyond him so far, although I’m making sure that I pace him well. He is still urging me to let him leave school and I know that I’ll have to give in eventually, but while I can persuade him to stay for a bit longer I think he should. I’ve resigned myself to the fact that he won’t be going to College like you and I think that when the time comes he’ll be happy to join me fulltime on the ranch. To be honest I’ll be looking forward to that day.

 

Joseph on the other hand is causing a great deal of anxiety both to his teacher and myself. Abigail says that he has a very quick mind. Lord knows anyone who gets into as much trouble as that boy must have! The problem is that he just won’t use it and seems to delight in spending his time getting into as much trouble as he can. I seem to spend my whole time at the moment disciplining him. He listens to Hoss and I talking about him leaving school and of course he wants to do the same. As far as I’m concerned the longer he stays in school the better. At least it keeps him from being underfoot all day.

 

Between looking after the boys and getting the timber contracts going, there hasn’t been much time for relaxation at the moment. Soon the branding will have to be done and life will get even more hectic. Well it keeps us all busy and our minds off missing you I suppose.

 

Look after yourself son.

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Deer Adam,

Im gonna run away if I cant leve   scool.I don’t want ta go   no more. I lost three teef and I had a birfday

Your bruver

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa,

 

I don’t know if you realise it, but Joe is thinking about running away from home. He sent me a letter telling me so. I’ve written to him telling him not to be stupid of course, but I thought you should know what he’s thinking.

 

He sure seems like one big handful at the moment. I wonder how you cope with him?

 

I’ll write again soon.

Love from Adam.

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

I received your letter today. Don’t be so silly! Running away from home doesn’t do any good and you’ll only get into trouble from Pa if you do. I know that you don’t like Miss Jones, but you just have to make up your mind to do some work for a change and things might look better. Hang in there little buddy. Have a talk to Hoss if it all gets too much for you.

 

Love from

Adam.

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Son,

 

Thank you for the warning regarding Joseph, but I had snuck a look at his letter before he sent it, so I had an idea of what he was planning. I do appreciate the letter you sent him though. He takes a lot of notice of you and it did him good to read that I’m sure. He didn’t get any further than packing a bag and sneaking it into the barn one night. He and I ended up having one of our ‘talks’ and he has a very different view of running away now, I can assure you.

 

I’m going to San Francisco for a few days next week and leaving Charlie in charge. Hoss is so keen to be involved that I’ve assured him that he is in charge as well, although as I’m sure you’re aware Charlie will be making all the decisions for him. He really is becoming quite the young man now.

 

I’m anxious about leaving Joseph here at the moment, given his recent behaviour, but he has assured me that he will be good for Hop Sing. I hope so. Martha Devlin will look in on both boys while I’m away.

 

You mentioned Margaret in your last letter. I thought your latest interest was Sarah? I’m finding it hard to keep up with you son.

 

Look after yourself,

Love from

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

It is real busy here at the moment. Pa went ta San Francisco and guess what? He left me in charge with Charlie. Charlie knew what ta do, but he let me help him. Pa was gone fer three days. Joe was angry and kicked Hop Sing, so Hop Sing smacked him. Pa smacked him too when he got home. Joe gets smacked a lot latly.

 

Do you get lots of work in Boston? I get lots of work at school. Why do you like school so much Adam? I don’t understand why ya do.

 

I wish ya was home with us.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Hoss,

 

Congratulations on being left in charge! Pa must have real confidence in you now. I’m sure that Charlie was grateful as well.

 

I’m sorry that Joe gave you a hard time though. I’ll write to him and tell him off for you. I hope that Hop Sing isn’t packing his bags again!

 

Yes I’m getting lots of work here. I’m swamped with it at the moment. I guess you and I are just different in that way buddy. School means a lot to me because I love to find out about things I don’t know. You just love learning in a different way, that’s all. You know so much about things that I never will. We both have a lot to learn from each other.

 

Give Pa and Joe a kiss for me and tell Joe to behave himself.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

I’m not very happy with you at the moment. Hoss told me that you were naughty for him and Hop Sing when Pa was away, even though you promised to behave yourself. If I were there I’d give you a tanning! Stop being selfish and behave yourself for Pa. He has a hard job with the ranch without you adding to his problems.

 

Next time I get a letter I want it to be a good one about you.

 

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

How are you son? I hope you’re keeping well at the moment. I had a very successful trip to San Francisco and we are now the owners of that tract of land between Truckee River and Bear Mountain. I got it at quite a reasonable price too.

 

Hoss did very well while I was away and was a great help to Charlie. It was so funny to hear him talking about things (just as if he had single-handedly done them himself). Charlie thinks the world of him and would never let on that he wasn’t really in charge.

 

Joseph didn’t live up to my expectations and gave everyone a bad time while I wasn’t here. Hop Sing is threatening to leave again, but we all know that he won’t. I’ve made Joseph apologize to him for his bad behaviour and he is working off his punishment in the kitchen for the next month, but I don’t think Hop Sing appreciates it. That boy will be the death of me!

 

Your loving

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Deer Adam,

 

Pa wos angre wiv me and spankd me. I rid my pony away from scool cause I don’t like it no more. Pa said he will tack me there evry day iffen he has two. Hey Adam can I liv in bostun wiv ya?

Your bruver

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

I’m not surprised that Pa spanked you if you took off from school like that! Don’t you know that you must have worried him? That’s not fair to him little buddy! I want you to behave yourself and do as you are told for Pa and Hoss. Pa shouldn’t have to take you to school just because he can’t trust you to go by yourself.

 

If Miss Jones is mean to you, then maybe it’s because you’re being naughty in class. You told me that you would try and do your work well, but I have yet to hear form Pa that you are. Don’t make me disappointed in you Joe. I want to hear good things about you.

 

You can’t come and live in Boston with me because your place is with Pa. He would get too lonely if you left and who would he cuddle at night? Also, Hoss would miss you. Try and be a good boy and I will be proud of you.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa,

 

Joe wrote and told me that he took off from school. I suppose you know that he’s asking me if he can come and live here now? I’ve enclosed a letter for him to read with this one. Hopefully it will make him get some sense into that head of his. There must be times when you feel like locking him in his room and never letting him out!

 

The work goes on and on here. Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever finish with all this!

 

I hope you are well.

 

Your loving son,

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

 

Dear Ben,

 

I must admit to being a little concerned about Adam at the moment. The boy is working far too hard and is burning the candle at both ends. I’ve been trying to get him to ease up a bit, but I think it would help if you tried to get through to him as well. He really wants to pass this year well and I’m sure he will, but he needs a balance in his life at the moment.

I’m very glad that the summer vacation will soon be here. I’m encouraging him to take off for a bit with his friends and have a holiday. It will do him the world of good.

 

I hope that you and the boys are well. From what Adam tells me, Hoss is doing well on the ranch and should soon be a great help to you. Joseph sounds like a handful though!

 

Look after yourself Ben. Don’t worry too much about that boy of yours. I’ll do my best to see that he looks after himself.

 

Love from

Abel

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Thank you for writing to Joe. I think your words made him sit back a bit and think. I gave him the belting of his life the day he took off like that. He had me scared to death though and deserved it. He actually spent the night in that cave of his and it wasn’t until the next morning that Hoss and I found him. Not very contrite either! He was all set to live there until he could figure out a way to buy a ticket to Boston and get to you. I told him I’m riding in with him each day now, as I can’t trust him to make it to school by himself. We only have two weeks until the summer vacation, so I’m hoping I can just keep my patience with him until then.

 

Don’t let the work get you down son. You have a vacation coming up too remember? Just hang in until then and you’ll have some time for yourself.

 

Say hello to Abel for me.

Love from

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Abel,

 

Thank you for your letter. I know what that boy of mine is like and I’m not surprised to hear that he’s overdoing the study. I’ve written to him about it. I would be grateful if you could persuade him to take it easy this summer and refresh himself. Next year will be a difficult one for him with his final exams. I am so grateful to you for looking after him so well. I only wish that Elizabeth were here to see what a wonderful boy he has grown into.

Love from

Ben

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

School is finished for the summer and I’m happy now cause I get to work with Pa and Charlie and the men on the ranch. I love working on the ranch. Pa is gonna take me on the cattle drive this year. I get to go all the way ta Sacramento with them. Pa says not ta tell Joe yet cause he’ll want ta come to and he cant. I wish ya was here ta come with us Adam. Do ya miss cattle drives and stuff in Boston?

 

Pa said that ya went on a clipper ship fer a sail in the harbour. Did ya get sick? I would. I’d reather have a horse than a boat. Happy birthday Adam. Guess ya getting grown up now huh?

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Hoss,

 

I’m sorry I haven’t written sooner, but I’ve been away for a couple of weeks visiting one of my friends in Pennsylvania. I’m having my summer vacation too and it’s wonderful not to have any assignments to do. I had a great time there and now I’m home to spend some time with Grandpa before I go to Vermont again to stay with my friend Peter’s family.

 

I’m glad you’re having a good summer. Don’t work too hard, even though you do enjoy it. Take some time to go fishing with Joe OK? Good luck on the cattle drive…I know you’ll do well. I certainly do miss all the ranching work here. I’m looking forward to getting back into it when I come home again. It’s only one more year to go now. Hard to believe!

 

I’ve had quite a few chances to go sailing since I’ve been here and I do enjoy it. I think I must have Pa and Grandpa’s sailing blood in me.

 

Thanks for the birthday wishes. I do feel more grown up now than when I left home. I suppose its seeing the world that does it.

Love to all

Your brother

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Deer Adam,

 

Wot macks the sky bleu? And wot macks the grass green? I want ta know. We hav holidays now. good!

 

I get ta rid my pony lots and help Pa and Hoss work. Pa took me fishin. I catched five fish. Hop Sing cookd em. Do ya hav fish in Bostun?

 

Your bruver

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

Yes we do have fish in Boston. I don’t have time to go fishing very often though. I am looking forward to the time when I can come home and fish with you and Hoss again. You sound like you’re getting to be a really good fisherman.

 

I’m glad you are enjoying your summer holidays. I hope that you have a great time fishing and riding. Remember to do all your chores so that Pa doesn’t have to remind you.

 

The sky is blue and the grass is green because God made them that way. One day when you are older I will explain to you all about how the light makes different colours. Until then, you might have to ask Pa because it’s just too hard to write about it in a letter.

 

Look after Hoss and Pa for me little buddy.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

Did ya have a good time on ya holiday? I’m having a good time on mine. Cept that Joe is being a pain like only he knows how. He wants ta come with Pa and me and the men all the time. I told him he’s only a kid, not nearly grown up like me, but he don’t know it proply.

 

Pa is gonna take me and Joe ta Sacramento fer a few days to see the city. Is Sacramento as big as Boston? Pa says Joe will be the death of him, so I don’t know why he wants ta take him with us.

 

I miss ya Adam.

Love from Hoss

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa,

 

Your trip to Sacramento with Hoss and Joe sounds like it was fun. I laughed out loud when I read how you let Hoss believe like he was making the decisions on that stock. I guess he thinks he’s a real man now, although I must admit he probably would have as good an idea as any of us. As you say, he’s a born rancher.

 

I think you were very brave to take Joe. You must have known what trouble he’d cause. I know he doesn’t mean to half the time, but we both know he’s a mischief magnet all the same. I hope the cost of the cattle wasn’t too much.

 

I have a bit of girl trouble at the moment. It’s so hard to know just how to handle women at times isn’t it? One minute they’re saying one thing and the next something completely different. I wish they were as easy to understand as engineering.

Tell Hoss Happy Birthday for me,

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

Deer Adam,

 

Are ya edicatd yet? I want ta know. Cause iffen ya are, can ya com home now? When will ya com home? Hoss is real mean ta me. He works wiv Pa and wont fish wiv me. Will ya fish wiv me when ya get edicated Adam and come home? Will ya hey Adam?

 

Your brotha

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

I still have a while to go on my College Degree, but as soon as I am finished I will be home with you. I promise little buddy. Hoss is very glad to be working with Pa and he needs you to understand why he can’t be with you all the time. He is trying to be grown up for Pa and himself. You have to be patient and learn to amuse yourself sometimes. I will definitely go fishing with you when I come little buddy, I promise. Until then, you practice OK?

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

I saw Millie Adams at Church today and she was asking about ya. Remember her? I think she still likes ya even though ya aint here. I wish she didn’t ask me cause I didn’t know what ta say ta her after that. Pa says I need more confidence with people. I’d rather have confidence with animals. How do ya get confidence Adam? You have lots. How did ya get it?

 

I hope it’s not too cold in Boston. It’s sure mighty cold here. We had lots of snow and couldn’t go to school fer all last week. Joe and me was pleased.

 

Love from Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Hoss,

 

Yes of course I remember Millie Adams. Say hello to her for me. I suppose confidence comes with experience that’s all. I sure have had lots of that here! You just need to think of girls as like us really, only a bit different. They’re not so scary when you think about it.

 

If you like a girl, just take the time to ask her what she’s interested in and ask her lots of questions about it. Once you get a girl talking it’s usually hard to make her stop and all you have to do is agree with her occasionally. Try it and see. Good luck!

 

Yes it’s mighty cold here as well. We had a wonderful white Christmas this year and Grandpa and I made the most of it to while away a few pleasant days together.

 

I must go now, as there is an assignment I have to finish tonight.

 

Love to everyone,

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

Pa says I can get a new horse when I get bigga. When will I get bigga? Sum kids at scool said that I’m puny but I aint. What is puny? I think it means small. I aint puny.

 

Your brotha

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

Don’t worry about the kids calling you puny. Puny just means that you haven’t finished growing yet that’s all. You will grow one day little buddy. Until then, you just ignore those other kids. Remember that good things come in small packages.

I hope you’re being good for Pa.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Thanks fer the advice. I don’t know iffen I’ll be able ta use it cause girls don’t talk ta me much and I don’t talk ta them. But if I ever do I’ll try it.

 

Guess what? Pa says I can leave school after my birthday! I’m real happy cause now I can work on the ranch all the time. When ya get home we’ll be able ta work together. Joe wants ta leave school too, but Pa won’t let him of course. He has ta get an edication like us don’t he? That makes sense.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Thank you for the lovely birthday present. Yes it did arrive in time, but only just! It is one of my favourites as I’m sure you know and I’m looking forward to reading it. Please give Abel my thanks for his gift as well. I had a lovely day. Hop Sing made an enormous cake and Joe insisted on us lighting the candles three times so that we could all have a turn at blowing out the candles. I’ve received so many birthday wishes form all our friends this year that I feel quite overcome. Roy Coffee sends his regards by the way.

 

I’m thinking of joining the town council again this year. I’ve been off it now for two years and the issue of the water rights is a hot one, so I think it’s time I had my say on behalf of the ranchers in the district.

 

The boys are both well and growing so fast! You will get quite a surprise to see them both when you make it home I’m sure. Hoss has really filled out and is very broad across the shoulders now. He’s so strong that it’s hard to remember that he’s as young as he is. Joseph is finally beginning to grow taller, but is still as skinny as ever. He’s been getting quite a bit of teasing at school and is determined to grow. It’s hard to get through to him that he has to be patient.

 

I’m glad to hear that your exams went well. By now I suppose you should have your results. Remember that whatever you achieve I know that you have done your best and am very proud of you.

 

Your loving

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Pa says that you will com home this yeer. will ya? Will ya be eddicated now? Miss Jones says that yar smart. She says I shud be like you. She likes you but she don’t like me. Hoss got ta leve scool. Hes luky. I want ta leve scool to but pa wont let me. tell him to Adam will ya huh?

 

Your brotha

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Joe,

 

I’ve told you before that I’m not going to ask Pa to let you leave school. You’re far too young and you need to learn things there. I know that you don’t always get on with Miss Jones, but that’s no reason to want to leave. One day you’ll look back on your school days as fun. I still go to school here at College and I still have things to learn. We all do. Hang in there little buddy. One day when you’re as old as Hoss Pa will let you leave. Until then, try your best and it might actually become interesting and fun.

 

Yes I will be home this year, but not for quite a while yet. I am working very hard to pass all my exams at the moment.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

I’m having the best time! Summer is here and I’m finished with school fer good. I’m a real man now cause Pa says I work like one. Charlie says so too. Hop Sing says I eat like one too.

 

Now that I’m grown up I’m helping Pa more with Joe. Pa is letting Joe pretend like he’s helping us and so do I. He’s good with the horses. When he goes back ta school we’ll be able ta get on with our proper men’s work though.

 

I guess you’ll be finishing up at College this year. I can hardly wait fer ya ta come home and help with us men on the ranch. I’ll show ya what ta do iffen you’ve forgotten.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Its holidays again. good. Pa says I can help this yeer with the horses. I get ta help him gentel them. I get ta hold there heads and he rids em. I like horses. Do ya like horses? Do ya have horses in Bostun?

 

Your brotha

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Hoss and Joe,

 

Thank you for your letters. I’m looking forward so much to seeing you both again soon. I’m very glad that you are both having a wonderful holiday. I’m sure that Pa appreciates the help that you are both able to give him. Just think…when you next have a holiday Joe, I’ll be there with you. The three of us will be able to go fishing again.

 

I’ll be grateful for your help when I get home Hoss. I’m afraid that I’ve not be able to be as active as I would have liked here in the city. Too much study and too much socialising I suppose. Never mind, that will all be different once I get home again.

 

Say hello to Pa for me. Be good!

 

Your brother

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Well the summer is drawing to a close and the boys have had a wonderful time. Hoss is so pleased to be finally finished with school and I must admit that I feel the same. It has been hard watching him struggle with it all this time, but I know it was for the best that he stay there this long and he will only benefit from it in the long run. He has taken to the ranch work like a duck to water, as I knew he would. The men are very accepting of him and he is proving to be a great worker. He spends quite a bit of time with Charlie who has taken him under his wing and is guiding him through various tasks. You’ll be most surprised at the difference in him when you get home. It seems to have given him a lot more confidence as well. I actually saw him talking to Bessie Sue Skeritt after Church last Sunday. Voluntarily! I do believe that he’s growing up in more ways than one.

 

Joseph is getting ready to go back to school after the summer break, much to my delight and his disgust. Of course he wants to stay home…especially now that Hoss is allowed to. He has had a wonderful summer and I do believe that he has grown taller this year. I must admit though it will be nice to be able to get a full day’s work in without him continually asking questions and getting underfoot. He has actually helped quite a bit with the horses during the past couple of months. I believe that boy will make an excellent horseman when he is grown…if I let him live that long. Hoss has been very patient with him, but he is frustrated because he is trying to spread his own wings and prove himself to myself and the men. Joseph tagging along with him all the time has made it hard for him.

 

I am really looking forward to your return son. Not only because I’ve missed you so much, but the ranch has suffered without you. It will be so nice to have someone to talk to about the business matters again. I’m sure you will have lots of ideas when you get here about how to improve things, and I’m really looking forward to discussing it all with you.

 

Look after yourself. God Bless.

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa, Hoss and Joe,

 

Well College is finally over and apart from Graduation I’ve done all that I can. I’m spending a bit of time now taking a well-deserved break and relaxing. It’s so nice not to have the pressure of exams. Grandpa and I went to the theatre to celebrate and saw a wonderful production of Figaro (that’s an opera Hoss and Joe).

 

I’m off to New York for a couple of weeks and will get back just in time for Graduation. Then I’ll be booking a ticket for home. I can’t believe the time is nearly here!

 

I’ll write again before I leave to let you know my arrival date.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

I’ve made a calendar and me and Joe is marking off the days until ya come home. Joe wants ta rip some of the months off cause he thinks you’ll come home quicker if we do. He’s just a little kid and he doesn’t understand like us men do.

 

I’ve been exercising Sport fer ya lots more lately. Guess you’ll hardly recognise him huh?

 

I got a new horse. Pa said I needed one. I’ve called him Chubb but sometimes Chubby. He’s big and black. Joe wants a new horse too, but Pa said not until he’s twelve. He wants ta mark that on the calendar too, but I told him we don’t have enough months fer that. He don’t understand like us men do.

 

Hurry home Adam.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

Pa says that your comeing home soon. That will be good. I am bigger than when ya left and I can rid good now. Pa is gonna get me a big horse soon. I want one now. I had anover birfday and Im bigger. Ive grown out of puny.

 

Your Brotha

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Son,

 

It is so hard to realise that your time in Boston is nearly up and you will soon be returning to us. Hoss and Joe are beside themselves with joy and not a day goes past without at least one of them mentioning it. It’s really testing their patience (and mine) at the moment.

 

Congratulations on your excellent results! I knew that you could do it! I’m very proud of you son, as I know how hard you’ve worked for this and the self satisfaction that you must be feeling. I wish I could be there for your Graduation, but at least Abel will be. I’m sure he will be bursting with pride when your name is called out. I can hardly wait to see your medal. I’ve told the boys about your award, and they are both very proud of you as well. Joe wants to know if he can borrow the medal to show Miss Jones. I think he believes it will score him some points with her and get her off his back. I warn you son, I think that younger brother of yours is plotting to set you up with Abigail when you return in order to make her act more kindly towards him. I thought you would appreciate the warning.

 

I am counting the days until your return. The boys have made a calendar and I must admit to watching it as closely as they do. Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help with your travel arrangements. I’ve wired the money and it should be in your account within the week.

 

Love from

Pa

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

Guess you’ll be packing soon to come home. Guess you might feel strange leaving Boston after all this time huh? Pa is real happy that you’re coming home. So are me and Joe. I can hardly wait ta see ya again Adam. Bet ya look different now. Pa says you’ll hardly recognise me cause I’ve grown so much. Joe has too.

 

Have a safe trip.

 

Love from

Hoss

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

Pa says that ya finished at colag now and ya comeing home. Im glad. Pa and Hoss is glad two. Are ya glad two? Will ya miss Bostun? Betcha wont miss scool. Pa says we can meet the stage when ya com. Hury up Adam.

 

Your brotha

Joe

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Pa, Hoss and Joe,

 

I just can’t believe that the time has come to leave. Graduation was wonderful! Grandpa was there of course and he actually had tears in his eyes when he hugged me afterwards. He has been showing my medal around to everyone he comes in contact with. You would think I’d won a world-class event instead of just an award from a College. It’s nice to know that he’s proud of me though.

 

Excited as I am to be coming home, it is going to be hard to leave him. We’ve grown so close during my time here that I will miss him dearly and I know he feels the same. I hate to leave him alone like this knowing that I may never see him again, but I just can’t not come home. The Ponderosa is where I belong and even though part of me longs to stay with him I know that I just can’t.

 

I am so looking forward to seeing all of you again. Who would believe that it’s been three years? It seems like just last week that I got off the train here and now I’m three years older and heading home with a College education behind me! I can hardly wait to tell you all about it in person. It’s so hard to say what you need to in a letter and I feel that we’ll have to spend many hours around that fireplace catching up. I want to know all about your lives as well.

 

I hope that The Ponderosa puts on her most beautiful garments to greet me. I have missed it all so much…the mountains, the lake and the pines. So many times I’ve shut my eyes to see them inside my head, that it’s hard to imagine they will be there in reality for me soon.

 

Pa, I should be arriving on the 23^rd. I booked the ticket yesterday. Looking forward to all your hugs when I get there.

 

Love from

Adam

 

***** Boston Correspondence *****

 

Dear Adam,

 

By the time you read this you will be well on your way home. I put this in your bag because I wanted you to read it when you were alone. Sometimes it is hard to express how we feel about people we love and so it is with me. I decided that best thing to do was write it down for you instead.

 

Adam you have no idea what the last three years have meant to me. When you first arrived I sensed that we would become friends, but I never realised how close we would become during our time together. You are a wonderful boy and I am very proud of the way you have handled yourself during this time. You have showed a great aptitude for study and a commitment to make the most of the opportunities that you have been given. I have been extremely proud of you because of it.

 

Adam, your mother would be so proud of you as well. I am glad that we have had this time to get to know each other, and I just hope that the talks we’ve had about her have helped to make her real for you. You are so much like her in so many ways, that it had at times made me sad to watch you, yet at the same time so very very glad that I’ve had the chance to know you as the adult you have become.

 

My sadness at you leaving is only overshadowed by the joy that I feel for you returning to your father and brothers as I know you have longed to do. I just hope that you will always keep a little space in your heart for me my boy, as I will for you. I know that we will keep in touch, but it won’t be the same of course and that saddens me. Know that I will always be here for you if ever you need me.

 

Look after yourself Adam and always remember that I love you dearly. My dear boy…my dear grandson…my darling Elizabeth’s boy. May God bless you and keep you always safe.

 

Your loving Grandfather

Abel Stoddard

 

The End