Summary: With a prankster on the Ponderosa. No telling who the next victim will be.
Rating:  G
Words:  13,400

The Brandsters have included this story by this author in our project: Preserving Their Legacy. To preserve the legacy of the author, we have decided to give their work a home in the Bonanza Brand Fanfiction Library.  The author will always be the owner of this work of fanfiction, and should they wish us to remove their story, we will.

Ponderosa Prankster

      It was a hot blistering day on the Ponderosa.  The Ponderosa is a ranch owed by Ben Cartwright and his three sons.  It is a thousand square miles of lovely meadows and beautiful mountains.  Ben had built a sturdy two story ranch house. The house has large rooms and is made to complement the surrounding wooded area.  Bens’ sons help take care to the growing ranch.  There is twenty three year old Adam, he is the most serious of the three sons.  Having traveled across the county to the new life his father wanted for him, made Adam very much appreciate the home his father had made for him and his two brothers.  Adam was just a small child when him and his father started on the journey.  Ben had depended on Adam to be strong and help hold the family together.  

Then there is seventeen year old Erik, however, his friends called him Hoss. He was a large man and at his young age he was already larger than his brother Adam.. Hoss was a very loving and kind hearted young man.  He seemed to think Adam was too business like and needed to learn to lighten up.  Hoss had been born on the way to the dream Ben had. About halfway through the journey Ben had meet his second wife Inger.   They had a lovely life together until Inger was killed by Indians when Hoss was just a baby.       

Last but not least, there was eleven year old Joseph.  He was a small boy with clear green eyes and dark curly hair. Since he was the smallest of the three sons they call him Little Joe.  He looked a lot like his mother Marie.  Every time Ben looked at the lad he could see a little bit of his wife.  Unfortunately Marie had died many years before in a tragic horsing accident.  Joe is the most mischievous of the three Cartwright boys.  He tends to find trouble even when he is not looking for it.

Today was no different, Joe was already making trouble for himself.  However, Little Joe did not see it that way.  Its just one harmless prank the little boy thought to himself.  No one will get hurt.  Joseph was lying in the hayloft in the barn.  He had been waiting for over an hour for a victim.  It was extremely hot up in the loft.  Joe was sweating and his hair was sticking to his forehead.  He thought about giving up on his prank and go swimming instead.  But decided against it, after all it had taken him nearly fifteen minutes to climb the wooden ladder with the large bucket of water.  No, he decided he would wait.  It couldn’t be long now.  He was right, just then he saw a shadow come into the barn.  At first he couldn’t make out who it was but after the figure stepped into the light Joe knew it was his brother Hoss.  Hmmmmm, the perfect victim Joe thought to himself.  He laid very still, he had to wait for the right moment.  If he acted to soon then his  prank would not have the full effect.  “Joe, Joe are ya in here?.” called Hoss “Pa wants ya to come and eat your breakfast.”  Just then Hoss stopped and looked up the ladder leading to the hay loft.  “Joe you up there?” The time had come.  Joe pushed the large bucket of water over the edge of the loft opening.  SPLASH, THUMP was the sound as the buckets wet contents emptied on the unsuspecting victim. The bucket fell onto Hoss’ large head.  Hoss stumbled back and tripped over a bale of straw landing right in the middle of a fresh pile of horse manure. “Dang it Little Joe, I’m going to pound you to a pulp!” hollered Hoss through the bucket on his head.  Little Joe hurried down the long wooden ladder and ran as fast as he could to the house.  He left poor Hoss in the barn with the bucket on this head.  Joe jumped onto the porch and threw open the door. Before he could go any further h e ran smack into his brother Adam.  The boy would have tumbled to the floor but Adam had snatched the front of his shirt and caught him just in time.

“What’s your hurry Little Joe?” Adam asked with a quizzical look in his eyes.  “Oh umm nothing,” replied Little Joe.  “Well go get washed up for breakfast, we have been waiting for you.” demanded Adam letting go of Joe’s shirt.  And put of a clean shirt, this one is filthy.  Joe turned and ran up the steps.  He could hear Hoss’ footsteps on the porch and wanted to get out of sight before Hoss made it into the house.  Just as Joe had closed his bedroom door, he heard the large front door open.  Hoss walked into the entry.  Adam looked at him as if he had worms crawling out of his ears.

“What the heck happened to you?” Adam asked while trying not th laugh. “It was little Joe and one of his silly pranks.” Hoss began to explain.  Ben had walked over to the door to see what was going on. “ “I thought I had made it clear that he was to stop all those silly pranks, before someone gets hurt. 
Ben turned to the stairs with a frown on his face.  “JOSEPH!!” he yelled with a tone his children recognized to well.  Joe heard his father calling for him and he wrinkled his nose to the sound of his fathers voice.  “Yes Pa?” answered Joe trying to sound as innocent as possible.  “Come down here, right now young man.” Ben called using a no nonsense voice.  “Coming Pa.” Joe called back down the stairs.  Joe finished washing up quickly.  Then he preceded to go down the stairs as if nothing had happened.  When he reached the bottom of the steps he could see the scowl on the his father face.

“Well young man, what do you have to say for yourself?” asked his father.  Joe looked up and replied, “Well I’m hungry, and what happened to you Hoss??” Joe asked this as if he had nothing to do with the way his brother looked.  “ You know durn well what happened to me short shanks!.” yelled Hoss. 

Ben was glaring at his youngest son.  “Did you have anything to do with this?”  Joe started to squirm for he knew he was now caught.  “Did you see me do anything?”  Joe asked his brothers.  “Well no, but I had a bucket on my head!!” Hoss began to yell.  “If you didn’t see me, then why do you think I did this to ya?” asked Joe with a gleam in his eye.  He may very well be able to get himself out of this mess.  Adam stepped forward.  “Well, Little brother.” he began “Pa and I were here in the house, Hop Sing was in the kitchen, and Pa had sent Hoss to the barn to look for you.  And if I remember correctly it was just a few minutes ago that you little brother was running into the house as if you were being chased by bees.  So, process of illumination makes you young man look like the guilty party.”  Joe started to shift from one foot to the other.  He lo oked over at Hoss again.  He had a hard time not laughing.  Hoss just stood there with water dripping from his broad chin and his hat was crunched.  Joe just didn’t know what to say to Adams remark. So he just stood there and said nothing.  “I thought we had decided just two days ago that there would be no more pranks.  What am I going to do with you?” Ben asked Little Joe with fury in his eyes.  Joe looked into his fathers unhappy face. “Sorry Pa., wont happen again?” this sounded more like a question than an apology.  “ Young man since you have so much extra time on our hands, I think I will be able to find some extra chores for you to do.” 
“But…..But….Pa!” Little Joe started to protest.  “No more buts young man.  You’re lucking I’m not giving you more that just extra chores.  However, one more prank will earn you a much needed 
“necessary talk’.  Do I make myself clear?”

Joe’s eyes were facing th floor.  He shook his head up and down.  “ I can’t hear your head rattle young man.” Ben said crossly.  “Do you understand me?” Ben had bent down so he was now face to face with his youngest.  “Yes Sir.”  answered Joe.  “Now apologize to your brother so we can eat before Hop Sing threatens to go back to China.”  

“Sorry Hoss.”  Joe said smiling an innocent smile.  “Ahh, it’s all right short shanks.  But can’t ya pick on somebody else for a change??”  After Hoss went upstairs and dried off, the Cartwright family sat down to eat the fine breakfast Hop Sing had fixed.  There were scrambled eggs, fresh pork sausage, fluffy biscuits, and white gravy.  Joe filled his plat full and started stuffing his face.  After all the time and energy he used pulling this mornings prank, he need to refuel himself for the day.
Even though Ben had ordered Joe not to do anymore pranks.  The little boy couldn’t help just to think about the things he could be doing.  However, Joe decided it would be wise to let his father cool down for a few days before pulling any new pranks.  No sense in having to have an unneeded “necessary talk” with pa.  No sir re, Joe sill clearly remembers the last “necessary conversation” he had with his father.

It had just been a couple of weeks ago.  Little Joe had decided to skip school and go fishing instead.  He would have never been caught if he hadn’t forgotten his lunch pail..  Ben had noticed that his son left his lunch on the table.  He decided since he was going to town anyways he would go by the school and drop it off.  Ben didn’t want his growing son to go hungry and it wasn’t out of his way.  Only when Ben arrived at the school, Ms. Morgan the new school teacher informed Mr. Cartwright of his sons’ many absences and of Joseph’s unacceptable behavior.  The teacher explained that Joseph was often late and on occasion was rather rude.  Today of corse was one of the days Little Joe hadn’t shown up at all.  Joe’s father was livid.  He thanked Ms Morgan for the informative information and guaranteed her that his son would be missing less school and that he would be getting to the “bottom” of his sons behavio r.  Ms. Morgan thanked him gratefully and Ben headed back to the ranch.  He was so upset and mad that he forgot to go into town.

Joe on the other hand had a grand day of fishing.  When he thought it was around the time for him to be at home from school, he loaded up his gear and headed home.  About a mile from the house Joe stopped and hid his pole inside a hollow tree.  He retrieved his books from the same spot and headed for the house, thinking he had again gotten away with skipping school.  Only when he rode into the yard today his father was waiting for him on the porch.  His arms crossed and his eyebrows drawn close together.  Joe knew right away that something was wrong, but did not know at the moment that it involved him.  “Take care of your horse than come into the house.” Ben said in a low scowling voice.  “Yes sir” Joe answered back wondering which thing his father had found out about.  After Joe brushed his horse down and gave him some feed, he drug himself into the house to face his father.  Ben was sitting behind his desk working on some ledgers when  Joe came in.  Joe walked slowly over to his fathers desk and stood patiently in front of it.  Finally Ben looked up at his son, his eyes dark with anger. “Joseph” Ben started “can you guess who I spoke to this morning?”  Joe was in no mood for a guessing game, but knew better than to voice his opinion.  “No sir, who?” answered Joe.  “Well young man, I had noticed that you had forgotten your lunch pail today.”  Joe interrupted, “my…my…lunch pail?” Joe had figured out where this was going without his father having to say another word.  “Your lunch pail.” Ben replied.  “I decided to take it to school for you, only to discover that you weren’t there.  Ms. Morgan filled me in on all your misadventures and behavior problem.”  Joe lowered his head for he was in more trouble that he at first had thought.  “I informed Ms. Mo rgan that I would get to the “bottom” of this problem before you returned to school tomorrow.”  
“Well I aint goin” Little Joe blurted out before he knew what he was saying.  “I beg your pardon?” said Ben with a shocked look on his face.  “I think you heard me, your not deaf!”Little Joe screamed.  Ben did not say another word.  He got up from his desk walked over to his son, grabbed him by the back of his collar and drug him up the stairs.  Once up in Joseph’s room Ben administered a “necessary talk” that Joe would not soon forget.  When his father turned to leave his room, his final words where. “You will be going back to school tomorrow, regardless if you like it or not!”  Ever since then one of Joe’s brothers took him to school and his father tried to pick him up.  It would be awhile before he would get away with skipping school again.  But eventually the opportunity would come.

Joe…Joe….Joseph!! Little Joe snapped back to reality.  Ben had been trying to get his attention.  “Joseph have you heard a I said?” Ben asked staring at his son.  “ Uh no pa, I guess I was daydreaming.” answered Little Joe when he came back to his senses.  “Well now that I have your attention.  I wanted to let you know that since this was Saturday, I will write down the extra chores your to have finished before supper tonight.  Maybe this will keep you out of trouble.”said Ben in a firm voice. “Adam and I will be going into town, so you and Hoss will have to handle things around here.”
“Also” said Ben while shaking a finger at Joe “No goofing off, your not going to be able to finish your chores if your playing around. Also if you give Hoss a hard time, you’ll answer to me, Understood?”

“Yes Pa.” Joe answered back watching his fathers finger shake back and forth.  Ben and Adam had finished their breakfast and were getting ready to go saddle their horses.  As they walked out the door, Joe got up from the table and ran over and yelled, have a good trip don’t worry about a thing.  After Pa and Adam were out of sight, Joe turned around to get his hat.  If  he was to get his list of chores done he was going to have to work hard and fast.  No time to goof off that was for sure.  
While Joe worked on stacking some wood,  he couldn’t help but think about some pranks he could be pulling on Hoss while Adam and Pa were gone.  He could have lots of  fun, but Hoss would surely tell on him and since he had already gotten into trouble today, he did not think it would be worth the consequences.  He would have to wait a day or two or risk having to have a “necessary talk” with his father.  Joe continued to do his chores and by the time him and Hoss were done Adam and Pa came riding into the yard.  “Hi ya Pa,” said Hoss, “how was the trip to town?”  Fine, fine we got the new timber contract all taken care of and signed by Mr. Gordon.  You boys get into any trouble while Adam and I were gone?  Ben was eyeing his youngest son.  “No Pa there weren’t no trouble” answered Joe, “how much do you think we can get into in one short day?”  “Well noin  you Short Shanks, that could be a lot.” Hoss laughed while pushing Joe’s hat over his eyes.  “Very funny” Joe said as he stood frowning at Hoss.  At that moment Hop Sing came out of the kitchen door.  Suppa ready Mr. Cartlight.  Boys come eat, food no get cold.  Hurry or I go back to China.  Hop Sing disappeared back into the house.  “Hoss you and Little Joe take care of our horses while we go and get washed up.  After that trip to town I feel like I have two inches of dust on me.  Come on Adam lets go get cleaned up.  Ben and Adam hopped down from their horses and went into the house.  Hoss and Little Joe led the horses into the barn.  They worked swiftly side by side.  And when everything was done they both went into the house to get cleaned up for supper.  While Joe was standing in front of his washbasin he had an image of what Hoss looked like early that morning.  He was laughing to himself at the picture of his brother with  a water bucket on his head.  Joe dipped his hands deep into the water and splashed it onto his face.  He then washed his hands throughly.  He dried his hands and face on the soft clean towel that hung from his wash basin.  Then he put on a clean shirt.  Somehow he had gotten extremely dirty today.  He then turned to go down the hall to the top of the stairs.  When he reached the top of the steps he went to throw his leg over the smooth wooden banister, so he could slide down to the bottom.   Right when he was getting ready to start sliding Adam grabbed the back of his shirt.  “No you don’t little brother, how many times has pa told you not to slide down the banister?” Adam asked as he drug his youngest brother down the steps to the supper table.  “Oh, I guess about a hundred.” Little Joe answered to Adam.  “Then why do you persist on doing it over and over again?”
Adam asked while frowning at Joe.  

“I don’t know, its fun I guess.” said Joe.  Well it won’t be fun if pa catches you, now go sit down so we can all have our supper.  After Joe and Adam sat down the family began to eat.  Hop Sing had fixed chicken and dumplings.  One of Joe’s favorites.  While eating his dinner Joe decided who he was going to get with his next prank.  It was going to have to be Adam.  He was tired of Adam being so bossy and always having something to say about what Joe did.  Joe was going to get even.  All he had to do now is to think of the perfect prank.  It had to be subtle so he would not get caught.  After everyone had finished their supper.  They all went to sit around the fire to relax.  Adam and Hoss got all wrapped up in a game of chess, Pa was reading his book and Joe was trying to think of the prank he was to pull on his oldest brother.  As Joe sat by the warm fire, he started to doze off.  “Joe, why don’t you go up to bed so n.” his father said smiling at his young son.  “Good night,” said Joe slowly walking up the stairs.  When he got to his room he slithered out of his clothes and put on a clean nightshirt.  He pulled back his cool covers and stumbled into bed.  As he lay on his back he thought of the events of the day.  The prank he pulled on Hoss, the wonderful supper Hop Sing had fixed and the warm feeling when his family had gathered around the fireplace in the great room.  Then his thoughts shifted to the prank that he would soon pull on Adam.  The problem was he did not know what he was going to do.  He laid silent for a long time.  When he finally fell asleep he tossed and turned all night long.  

All of the sudden Joe heard someone calling his name and at first he thought it was part of  his dream.  But then he realized that it was his father calling to him.  As Joseph set up in his bed he heard a knocking at his bedroom door.  “Come in,” Joe said in a sleepy voice.  Ben opened the door and entered his son’s room.  “Joseph, son its time to get up.  We have our chores to do, breakfast to eat and then we have to get ready for church.”  Joe pulled his soft warm blanket over his head, he was hoping that his pa would just leave him along.  Ben rolled his eyes and walked over to the bed. He grabbed the blanket and quickly pulled the cover off of his son.  Joe rolled over acting as if he did not notice.  “Joseph, I said NOW!” bellowed Ben.  Before Ben turned to leave the room he playfully swatted his son on his bottom.  After Joe heard the door shut, he climbed out of bed and started to get washed up.  By the  time he staggered down stairs his two older brothers had already finished all the chores and had eaten breakfast.  They were heading upstairs to get ready for church.  “Good morning sleepy head,” snarled Adam “Its so nice that you decided to grace us with your presence.”  Joe stuck his tongue out at Adam and preceded to go to breakfast.  Joe sat down in his usual spot beside his father.  Ben looked up at him as he set down.  “Joe you need to learn to get up at a decent time.”  Ben scolded his son, “Its not fair that your brothers have to do all the chores.  “ Sorry Pa, won’t happen again, I promise.” Joe replied looking at his father from the bottom of his eyes.  “Well see that it doesn’t” grumble Ben as he was getting up from the breakfast table.  Ben walked to the stairs so he could go get ready for church.  Before he reached the top he called over t o Joe to let him know that he was expected to be done with his breakfast when they returned down stairs.  Joe hurried to finish his breakfast at record speed.  He was also thankful more had not been said about his tardiness.  When everyone was all cleaned and dressed in their Sunday best, the family rode into town.  Once they were in Virginia City they headed for the church. 
 
Ben herded his family into the church pew they usually sat in.  Two rows from the front on the right.  First Adam sat down, then Hoss, Joe, and Ben.  Joe had to sit by his father every Sunday since the time Joe tied Mary and Karen Thompson braids together.  Joe couldn’t help himself.  Week after week he watched the little girls braids sway back and forth, in front of him.  Occasionally he would yank one only to get severe dark looks from the little girls.  One Sunday a few weeks ago the girls had bright yellow ribbons in their hair.  During the service the ribbons swayed and twirled in circles.  Joe could not take his eyes off them.  Joe looked over at his family to see what everyone was doing. Hoss had his eyes closed while Adam was reading a hymn book.  Pa was looking to his left placing a donation in the collection plate.  This was his chance, nobody was looking.  He reached up and carefully grabbed one braid from each little girl.  He tied the braids together.  The  little girls did not even notice.  Then he tied together the second braid.  When the girls stood up to leave church, their heads knocked together and they stared to cry.  Joe lost all control and started laughing.  He actually laughed so hard he fell to the floor and started to roll around.  “Well I never,” yelled Ms Thompson glaring at Ben.  No one had to ask who had done the dirty deed.  Guilty was written all over Joe’s face.  “Joseph Francis Cartwright!” bellowed his father.  Joe stopped laughing for a moment but could not repress himself.  Ben reached down and yanked his son up from the floor by his jacket. When Joe seen his fathers face his joke didn’t seem as funny anymore.  “ Joseph, apologize to Mary and Karen NOW!” Ben yelled pointing his finger in Joe’s face.  Joe quickly turned around and told the little girls he was very sorry.  He also told Mr. and Mrs. Thompson the same thing.  J oe was sorry for what he had done.  All of a sudden he realized he was in a great deal of trouble.  At first Joseph thought that he had gotten away with the joke, but learned differently when they arrived back at the Ponderosa.  That “necessary talk” lingered on for a week.  On top of that he ended up in trouble at school for not wanting to stay seated.  

Today however Joseph wasn’t able to pick on anyone.  He could barely hold his eyes open.  Ben had already elbowed him twice to make him wake up.  The third time Joe dozed off, his father placed his hand on his sons shoulder.  When Joe started leaning Ben preceded with a firm squeeze.  This was a warning from his father and he knew it.  He set up as straight as possible and tried to stay alert. This was very hard to achieve, because most of the congregation was slightly snoring.  After church services were over the family rode back to the ranch.  Hop Sing had out done himself today.  He fixed a wonderful feast.  There was fried chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, peas and fresh hot bread.  For dessert there would be fresh apple pie.  Hop Sing made wonderful pie and Joe thought this was the best part of the meal.  After dinner everyone went to do their chores.  At least the things that had to be done.  Since it was Sunday it was like a day off. They only completed what  had to be done.  

Later that night after a light supper.  The family set in the great room to discuss what needed to be done for the next day.  “Joe, you have schoolwork that needs to be finished?” Pa asked.  Joe answered a might to fast, “No pa not a thing.”  Joe did have school work to do but what pa did not know would not hurt him. Joe figured he could finish up the work in the morning.  As Joe thought about his unfinished work, Adam and Ben discussed the North pasture and the repairs that need to be done.  Joe excused himself so he could go to his room to work on the prank he was planning for his older brother.  
When he got to his room, he found a blank piece of paper and a pencil.  He labeled the top of the paper ADAMS PRANK.  Then he listed the supplies that he would need. This part was simple for he only needed one thing,  GREEN DYE. He remembered that Hop Sing had some in the kitchen leftover from dying Easter eggs.  Joe had plenty of time to figure out how to get the dye without Hop Sing noticing.  Joe glanced over at this unfinished school work but decided he was just to tired to work on it.  Instead he went over to his bed and lied down.  He stretched out and before he knew it he was fast asleep.

The next thing Joe knew was that the sun was shining in his face.  He sat straight up in his bed and looked around for a moment.  It finally occurred to him that it was morning and he was already running behind.  He had meant to get up early to work on his homework. But, now it was to late.  He would just have to face Ms. Morgan at school.  He hurried to get dressed and ran downstairs to have breakfast.  “Joe your late.” Adam pointed out.  “I know I am,” snapped Joe.  “Watch your tone of voice young man.” Ben said before taking a sip of his coffee.  Joe rolled his eyes when his father could not see him.  “You’ll have to do your chores when you come home, you don’t have time right now. You wouldn’t want to be late for school would you?” Adam asked with a smirk on his face.  “Adam, since you and Joseph seem to be getting along so well, I think you can take him into tow n to school.” Ben said with a stern look on his face.  Adams smirk was gone and was replaced with a frown.  “What ever you say pa.” Adam replied pushing his black hat father back on his head.  Hurry up and finish your breakfast, I’ll go get the horses ready. Adam stomped to the front door.  “Adam come straight back to the ranch after you drop off Joe, we have a lot to get done today.” Ben yelled at Adams back.  Joe hurried and ate his breakfast as fast as he could.  He didn’t want to be late for school since he knew he would already be in trouble for his unfinished homework. “See ya later pa” yelled Joe as he jumped up from the table.  “JOSEPH, don’t slam the door!” Ben began to say, but it was to late.  The door had already slammed shut shaking th glassware on the table.  What am I going to do with that boy, Ben thought to himself.  

Joe ran to the front yard to his little pony that Adam had already saddled for him.  “Lets get goin Adam I don’t want to be late for school” Joe turned his horse and started to gallop out of the yard.  “That’s a first Joe, you sick or something?” Adam asked while trying to catch his little brother.  The two boys rode toward town as fast as they could.  Just as they came to the school house they saw Ms. Morgan walked out on the front steps.  Ms Morgan saw the Cartwright boys, so she pretended to be looking for something.  When she finally saw Little Joe get down from his mount, she rang the bell.  She figured if Joe was coming to school that she could stall just a little before ringing the bell.  “Behave yourself Joe.” yelled Adam as he turned to ride away.  When Joe could no longer see Adam he made a mean face at the back of his brothers head.  “Come along children.” said Ms. Morgan  in her sweetest voice.  All the children started filing one by one into the small wooden school house.  The children were talking while trying to find their assigned seats.  Ms. Morgan walked in behind her students, she went over to her desk and took out a small wooden ruler. She then tapped it on the top of her desk a few times.  “Good morning class,” said the teacher scanning the room with her large blue eyes.  Good morning the children chorused together.  “Well the first business of the day is to collect homework.  The teacher walked to the front of the first roll of students, collecting the sheets of  homework that were being passed forward.  Joe had slid down in his chair, so he might not be seen.  When she reached the roll of students that Joe sat with she noticed that their were only five papers instead of six.  She fumbled through the papers to see who’s  was missing.  “Joseph,” Ms. Morgan asked with her voice  slightly raised, “I don’t see your homework in the stack.  Joe glanced up at his teacher trying to look as if he didn’t know what she was referring to.  “Joe did you complete your homework?” the teacher asked, she now had a slight frown on her face. “umm…ahh..” Joe was trying to think of some excuse. “Well yes ma’am, I did it.” he answered.  “Well Mr. Cartwright, would you care to explain where it is, since it was not turned in to me.?” Joe was trying to think of a quick response. Finally he blurted out, “My brother Hoss, he ate it.”  “What?” Ms Morgan had a shocked look on her face. “You say your brother ate it?” “Yea, Yea, my brother Hoss, he was real hungry last night and…well…I was doing my homework at the table and Hoss had finished eaten and well he was still hungry. Soooo I said Hoss  ya can have my dessert.  But Hoss said no that he wanted to eat my homework.  And I said ya caint eat my homework I needs if for school tomorrow..  But before I new it he reached over and grabbed it and ate it all down.  It was too late to do over, but , I thought you would understand.”  Ms Morgan just stood there staring at Joe as if he were speaking another language.  When Joe looked around he noticed that the whole class was glaring at him and some of the girls where giggling. “Joseph Cartwright!!!” bellowed Ms. Morgan, “I will not tolerate lying in my classroom!”  You may march yourself right into the corner.  Also young man you may stay in at recess and write 100 times on the board.  I will not tell stories to my teacher.  Then you may remain after school until your unfinished homework is completed.”  Joe suddenly felt very ill, he stood up and drug himself into the dreaded corner.  It wasn’t standing in  the corner or writing lines that bothered him. Joe knew that his father picked him up after school everyday to make sure he was on his best behavior.  Now he had to stay late to finish homework that he had told his father he did not have.  This meant when pa came to pick him up that pa would find out he fibbed (lie was much to hard of a word for Joe) about having homework to do, not doing his work, and fibbing to his teacher.  Then Ms. Morgan would let his father know of the punishment she had bestowed upon him.  However, no punishment Ms. Morgan gave him could come in compare to what awaited him when he arrived home.  Joe stood in the corner, he almost felt like crying.  Why did everyone pick on him? I never bother anyone Joe thought to himself.  After standing and writing most of the day Joe was ready to go home.  Finally Ms. Morgan was getting ready to ring the bell.  However, she reminded Joe before he could leave that he was to stay after school. Little Joe slightly mo aned but took his seat to start on his work.  Meanwhile, Ms Morgan had stepped into the school yard to wait for Ben.  She wanted to speak to Mr. Cartwright before he entered the school house to look for Joe.  After a few minutes Ben rode slowly into the front of the school.  “ Good afternoon Ms. Morgan.” Ben said while tipping his hat.  “Good afternoon Mr. Cartwright.” responded Ms. Morgan, however, she was not smiling.  “Mr Cartwright I need to speak to you about Joseph, if you can spare a moment.” 

“Of corse I can,” said Ben as he slid off the back of his horse and tied him to the nearby tree.  “Is there something wrong ma’am?” Ben now had a frown on his face.  Ms. Morgan began to explain of the days event, the unfinished schoolwork, an the lies that where told. She also explained the punishment that she had passed on the Mr. Cartwrights youngest son.  Meanwhile Joe was finishing up his work.  He was about to get up and place the paper on the teachers desk when all of the sudden he heard his fathers thunderous voice.  “Joseph Francis Cartwright, Would you please like to explain your actions to me?”  Joe froze, he knew when he was called by his full given name he was in the upmost trouble.  “Turn around and look at me young man.” Ben bellowed a dark glare in his eyes.  Joe turned around quickly but was unable to look into his fathers angry gaze.  Instead he glared down at the floor, ki cking a small piece of paper that lied under a desk.  This made Ben even more upset. “Young man, you..you…go and get your horse ready NOW!” his father was waving his finger toward the door.  Joe stepped around his father making sure he was out of reach and headed to do as his father had asked. “We’ll be discussing this matter in full when we get back to the Ponderosa!” Ben continued to yell as his son ran out of the school house.  Ms. Morgan walked to Joe’s desk and gathered some books and papers.  She went over to Ben and handed it to him.  “Joseph has spelling and arithmetic that needs to be finished before tomorrow.  I’m sure you’ll see that it is completed.” Ben turned to look at the teacher, “You have my word ma’am, I think once I’m finished with that boy he’ll never miss another assignment.”  “Thank You Mr. Cartwright, I wish all  parents were as concerned as you.”  Ms. Morgan was now walking to sit at her desk.  Ben turned and walked out of the school house.  Joe was waiting on his horse with a glum look on his face.  Ben did not say a word.  Joe was getting ready to speak but his father said “not a word JOSEPH!” We’ll discuss this when we get home.”  Joe didn’t say anything, they rode home in complete silence which was a very bad sign for Joseph Cartwright.

Once they arrived back at the ranch, Ben and Little Joe took care of their horses. “A horse is a mans best friend, ain’t that what you say pa?” Joe was trying to break the dooming silence.  Ben’s anger had eased a bit, but he wasn’t about to let his misbehaved son know it.  Joe chewed slightly on his bottom lip.  The silence and anticipation was getting to him.  All of the sudden Ben turned to his son and said, “It’s isn’t Joseph not ain’t.”  “What are ya talkin about pa?” Joe asked with a puzzled look on his face.  “Just a moment ago you asked me if a horse is a mans best friend.  However, you asked if that ain’t what I say.  It should have been isn’t that what you say.  Which you might have known if you had been doing your studies.” Bens anger was slowly beginning to rise again.  Joe just looked at his father with wide eyes.  “Now  Joseph Francis Cartwright, what should we do about what happened to day?” Ben was now glaring at his son, anger in his dark eyes.  “We could let me off with a warning?” Joe said with a very hopeful look in his eyes.  “NO, young man, I do believe that a firm necessary talk is in order. Then maybe you will remember to do your school work.  And I should wash your mouth out with soap for all the lying.  However I think I will just lengthen that necessary talk and that will take care of the job. Now straight to the house and up to your room.” Ben was pointing his large finger toward the front door.  Joe stuck out his bottom lip and turned to walk to the house.  He did try one last plea by promising never ever to lie again.  But Ben just pointed to the house once again.  Joe trudged to the door and went inside.  When he entered Adam and Hoss asked how he was doing.  But Joe just ignored them and went up the stairs slowly.  He went  into his bedroom and shut his door. He then went over to look out the window and then he sat on the bed to wait for his father and the “necessary talk” that he would be receiving.

Ben strode into the house.  Adam and Hoss both asked Ben at the same time what was the matter with Joe. “You know that little scamp got into a heap of trouble at school today.” Ben answered his sons.  Adam rolled his eyes.  It was no surprise to him, his little brother was always getting into some sort of trouble. “Don’t be to hard on him pa, he’s just a boy.” Hoss said with his nose all scrunched up.  “Well he’s a boy who is not going to be sitting to well for the next few days.  And the only thing I plan being hard on is his bottom.  Ben turned around and headed for the stairs. “I’m sure glad I ain’t Joe,” Hoss replied rubbing his backside. I still remember the last necessary talk that I had an theat was months ago.

The next two days were anything but pleasant for Little Joe.  His father assigned Adam to help with his homework.  Adam stood over Joe until he had all his work completed and completed correctly.  Once Adam even lost his temper and said a few curse words.  Only to his dismay he was the one on the receiving end of a lecture from Ben about appropriate language. At school Joe was on his very best behavior, and he volunteered to do anything that would get him out of his seat for a few minutes.  His bottom was still sore from his recent punishment and getting up for a few minutes helped take away the sting.
By Thursday Joe was feeling much better.  He finally started thinking again about the prank he was to pull on Adam.  He now only had a couple of days to figure out how to get his hands on the green dye that was in Hop Sings kitchen, Joe’s eyes started to sparkle and his lips curled.  He had come up with the perfect plan.  He would risk another “necessary talk”, but it may be worth it.  Once he got his hands on the green liquid that he needed his Saturday plans would be set.  That afternoon after school was out, Joe asked pa if he could go down by the creek to cool off.  “You may go, but don’t go to the deep parts.  Stay close to the shallow ends.” Ben told his son fearing he would find trouble if he went to far away.  Joe however wanted to stay in the shallow parts of the creek.  For this is were he would catch the slimy green frogs he would need for his plan.  Before he left the house to head for the creek.  Joe snuck int o the kitchen to borrow one of Hop Sings large pots with a tight fitting lid.  Joe walked to the creek, the sound of the cool trickling water made him feel slightly tired.  He almost decided to lie under one of the large green pine trees and take a nap.  But he had too much work to do.  The boy took off his boots and his socks, then he dipped his feet into the ice cold water.  The cold water sent shivers down his spine.  Joe then rolled up the bottom of his tan pants and stepped into the running creek.  Joe stood very still trying to spy the green wonders he was needing for his next adventure.  Finally, after a few minutes a frog slowly swam by stretching its fat legs.  He reached down quickly and before he knew it he had a hand full of squishy frog.  He then placed his green friend into the pot and quickly replaced the lid.  He then caught another fat lazy frog and again put it in the pot.  After catching a few frogs it was becoming more difficult to refrain his prisoners f rom jumping out when he removed the lid.  When Joe felt he had captured enough croaking frogs he headed back to the house, toting the pan with him.  Joe looked around the large yard, he wanted to get into the house undetected.  He glanced over to the barn.  Adam and pa were entering inside and had quickly shut the door behind them.  Hop Sing was in his garden muttering something about little rabbits eating all of his vegetables and he was picking up what was left of his fresh tomatoes.  Hoss all of the sudden ran out of the house and toward the barn tripping as he stepped off the porch.  After Hoss entered the barn, Joe felt he had the perfect opportunity to get into the kitchen unnoticed.  He went to the kitchen door and slightly cracked it open as if he were expecting to see someone there.  He then slithered into the door, pot in hand and went straight over to the stove.  He then set the heavy pot on the top making sure the lid was tightly closed.  Joe then heard footsteps  on the porch and he froze to listen.  It must be Hop Sing, he thought to himself, Joe turned and quickly ran out of the kitchen and toward the stairs.  Hop Sing open the kitchen door and saw the back of the boys curly head going around the doorway.  “Little Joe that you??” asked the Chinese man.  But when he got no response he went back to what he was doing.  Joe ran upstairs to his bedroom and shut the door.  He was breathing quite heavily in fear that Hop Sing would be suspicious.  After waiting a few minutes, Joe figured he was safe.  He went over and stretched out on his bed.  He was tired after all the work he had done.  His eyes started getting heavy and before he knew it he was dreaming of wild horses and cowboys.  While Joe was upstairs taking his nap, Hop Sing was getting ready to start cooking the families supper.  He had brought in some fresh garden vegetables or at least what he had gotten from the rabbits.  The little cook than started to pe el and clean the fresh produce.  He chopped everything into bite sized pieces and set them to the side.  He whirled around to get his pot off the stove so he could fill it with water.   Hop Sing lifted the pot over to the sink.  He did not even notice it was slightly heavier than before.  Hop sing then lifted the lid and to his surprise green frogs started leaping every where.  Hop Sing dropped the lid onto the floor and started cursing in his native tongue.  Frogs were coming from every direction. Ben, Adam, and Hoss had heard the commotion as they were walking back to the  house.  They came running to help the little man.  Joe also had heard but decided to stay where he was.  It would be soon enough that he would be hearing his name called.  He figured there was no since in rushing things. 

Ben was the first one to reach the kitchen.  When he walked into the house, he could see frogs jumping here and there.  He reached out to try to catch one that was sitting on the kitchen table but instead caught a fistful of air.  “Mr Cartlight!’ Hop Sing began to yell his face flushed. “Me go back to China.  Little boy very bad, he put frogs in Hop Sings pot!!” Hop Sing turned and headed for his room.  He already had his carpet bag on the bed when Ben walked in.  “Hop Sing you can’t leave.  If you do Hoss would starve to death,” said Ben quickly.  “I leave, little boy very bad, very bad.” Hop Sing repeated again, shaking his fist at Ben.  “Hop Sing, I will take care of the Boy,” Ben promised, “please unpack, I will take you into town for supper so you don’t have to cook tonight.”  “You take care of little boy??” Hop Sing asked  while raising his eyebrow.  “Yes, yes, I will take care of him.” replied Ben.  “OK, I go wait in buggy, but Hop Sing want this mess clean before he get home.”  He put his carpet bag back under his bed and walked to the door.  Adam and Hoss was just standing there, their mouths hanging open.  Ben turned around and said to his two oldest sons, “Go get the horses hitched up to the buggy, while I take care of your brother.  It looks like we are going to town for supper.”  Adam and Hoss turned and went to the barn to do as their father had asked.  
Ben turned and went into the living room.  From  the bottom of the steps he called for his youngest son.”JOSEPH!”  Joe knew his father would be calling for him so he was standing at the door waiting.  Joe walked down the hallway to the top of the steps.  “Did ya call for me pa?”  Ben motioned for his son to come down the stairs.  Joe walked as slow as he could without standing still to the bottom step.  “Hi pa, did ya need something?” Joe asked with a slight grin.  His father put his hands on his shoulders and led him into the kitchen.  When they stepped through the doorway, Joe’s eyes grew wide.  He didn’t realize what a mess a few little frogs could make.  They had knocked the flour into the floor and there were frogs sitting on the clean dishes.  They were on the floor and on top to the black iron stove.  “Joe,” Ben began “did you have something to do with this mess youn g man?”  There was no denying it.  His father knew he had went to the creek.  A lie would only make things worse. “Yes Sir, I guess I did.” Joe answered while looking around at the mess.  Ben was slightly surprised that his son had admitted to his misdeed so fast.  “Well young man, your brothers and I are taking Hop Sing into town for supper. This was the only way to keep Hop Sing from leaving.  While we are gone, you are to catch every single one of those slimy urchins and put them back into the creek.  You will then clean up this mess. All of it, before we get back from town.  Is this crystal clear?  “Yes sir, Pa sir, but what about my supper?”  Joe asked slightly frowning.  “When and only when you are finished with our task you may fix yourself a sandwich and take it to your room to eat.  Where by the way you will be spending the rest of the evening.  And , “ Ben continued, “if you e ven think about not doing as you are told you will have to deal with me when we return.” Ben strode to the door and disappeared in a flash leaving Joe alone in the kitchen.  Joe dreaded cleaning up the huge mess by himself, yet he was slightly excited for he knew he would be able to get the green dye he needed.  He was also grateful that he had escaped a “ necessary talk.”  The first thing Joe did was went to the pantry.  He pulled over one of the wooden chairs, so he could reach the amber colored bottles.  Joe carefully looked at each label until he found the one marked green dye.  He carefully wrapped it in his handkerchief and ran upstairs to hide it in his top drawer under his socks.  He made sure the cork was stuck into the bottle tight so the substance would not leak into his drawer.  He then went back downstair so he could start cleaning up the mess in the kitchen.  The first task was to catch all the green frogs. This was easier said tha n done.  By the time he had imprisoned all the frogs the mess was even worse.  Joe carried the frogs back to the creek and dumped them into the rushing water.  They almost seemed glad to be free.  Joe then scampered back to the house to finish cleaning the mess. It was worse than he first thought, he had to rewash all the dishes, clean the stove and sweep and wipe the floor.  When he finished the kitchen sparkled.  Joe then fixed himself a sandwich and went to his room to await the arrival of his family.  Just when he finished eating he heard the buggy pull into the yard.  With in a few moments Ben and Hop Sing were standing in his doorway.  “ The kitchen looks very nice Joe, “said his father with a smile on his face.”There is only one more thing you have to do.”   “What’s that??” Joe asked with a puzzled look.  “You owe Hop Sing an apology.” Ben replied.  “OH, yeah, right pa. blquote  Joe stood quickly to his feet and walked over to the cook. “Sorry Hop Sing, about the frogs and everything.  Won’t happen again.”  “It beta not or I go back to China” Hop Sing said as he turned to go back down stairs, still muttering words Joe could not understand.  
             
 “Joseph, “ Ben began in a stern voice, “I want you in bed in a half hour and stay out of Hop Sings kitchen.,” Ben then walked over to were Joe stood and messed up Joe’s curly hair, he gave him a hug and turned to leave the room, but not before giving his sons bottom a swift firm swat.  Joe decided he was to tired to stay up anyways and went to lie on his bed.  After taking off his boots, his mind wondered to the contraband that was hidden in his sock drawer.  What would his father say if he knew he caused all of to days mess on purpose just to sneak the bottle of green dye.  Joe squinted his eyes shut and decided not to thing about it.  He crawled under his coverlet and went fast asleep.  Joe of corse dreamt about green frogs and hopping all night long.  The next morning his legs were tired from his dreams from the night before.

Friday morning Joe wake up on time for a change.  He even shocked himself that he was on time.  He washed up and got dressed.  Joe could smell the aroma of breakfast floating up the stairs.  When he was all dressed he went downstairs to eat.  Ben was surprised to see Joe all dressed and on time. His brothers sat at the table staring at their youngest brother.  “What are ya starin at?” Joe asked while sitting down at the table.  “Joe, your dressed.” Ben replied, “and your on time for breakfast.”  “Sure Pa, I’m hungry.” Joe said as he heaped his plate full of food.  “Hoss I believe it’s your turn to take your brother to school today.” Ben informed his middle son.  “Sure pa, no problem at all. And I think for once he’ll be on time.” Hoss replied while stuffing a biscuit into his mouth.  After breakfast Hoss and Joe rode to the school.  Hoss  waved to Joe as he turned to go back to the ranch.

Joe had a very uneventful day at school.  He spent his recess and lunch time working on the details for his Saturday plan.  It had been along time since Joe went a whole day without getting into trouble.  When it was time for school to let out Ms. Morgan waited for Ben in the school yard.  She wanted to let him know how much Joe’s behavior had improved and that today was his best day yet.  Ben was very proud of Little Joe. Maybe that boy is finally growing up some and maybe he would have less trouble from him. Ben could hope at least.  Joe knew his father was proud, but what would Ben think if he knew of the prank he was going to pull on Adam.  Joe put that out of  his mind however, his main thought was getting back at his bossy older brother.  That night after the chores where done and supper was finished, the family set around the fire.  Ben told Adam and Hoss about the complement the teacher had given Joe.  Hoss and Joe played five games of checkers.  Joe had won th ree and Hoss had won two.  It had been a pleasant day for everyone.  Once in his life Joe made it through a whole day without getting into trouble.  This was almost a small miracle for the youngest Cartwright.

When the grandfather clock struck nine o’clock.  Ben told Joe it was time for bed.  Joe didn’t even argue.  He was tired and knew he had a big day tomorrow.  Hoss and Adam decided to turn in also.  Hoss had some extra chores to do on Saturday and wanted the extra rest.  As for Adam he had a dinner date tomorrow night and felt the rest would do him some good.  Ben decided to stay up and work on the ledgers.  He told his sons goodnight as they all went up the stairs to retire for the night.

When Ben had finished his task, he stretched and also decided it was time to turn in.  He blew out each lamp as he walked toward the grand staircase. After he was upstairs he stopped and checked on each of his sleeping sons.  Ben them waltzed down the hallway to the master bedroom. He entered his room filled with pride for his sons.  He quickly undressed and put on his night shirt.  Soon a pleasant nights slumber overcame him and he was fast asleep. 

Early the next morning there was a pounding on the front door.  Ben ran from upstairs, it was Earl one of the hands.  He came to inform Ben that some cattle had gotten caught in devils canyon.  Ben quickly went upstairs and woke the boys.  He told Adam to get dressed so they could set off the help the hands gather the cattle.  Hoss and Joe were to stay behind to do the chores around the ranch.  Saturdays were Joe’s favorite days.  After chores were done he was allowed to go do what he wanted unless he was in trouble, then he spent his days in his room.  The only thing he hated about Saturdays, was it was bath night.  However, this particular bath night Joe was almost excited.  Not of his bath of corse, but of Adams bath.

Hoss and Joe worked in the barn most of the day.  Only stopping to eat a quick lunch.  Since there were only two of them it was taking longer to get the chores done.  When the work was finally finished the boys went into the house to rest.  They both were dripping with sweat and exhausted from the work they had done.  It was around five o’clock, when they heard hoofs enter the yard.  They both went to the door to see who it was.  Adam had returned from rounding up the cattle that had gotten loose. “Where’s pa?” Hoss asked with a concerned look on his face. “He’ll be here soon, he got tied up with some other things.” answered Adam. “Adam what happened today?” Joe asked staring at his brother. Adam was covered from head to toe with mud, and by the smell other stuff too.  “Don’t ask, please just don’t ask.” Adam replied shaking his head, “All I want is a h ot bath.”  The word bath rang in Joe’s ears. The time had come.  The time for the prank, that would make them even.  “Joe,” Adam began “would you please ask Hop Sing to fix me a hot bath in the wash house.  I’ve got to take care of my horse, then I’ll be ready.”  “Sure thing brother, least I could do.” Joe replied as he turned to go and ask Hop Sing to draw Adam his bath.  After doing what he was asked Joe raced up to his room to get the green dye that was hidden in his drawer.  He had it all figured out.  He would wait for Adam to come upstairs to get his clean clothes.  While Adam did this, he would slip down the stairs and into the bath house.  He would then pour the rich green liquid into Adams bath water. When Adam was done bathing, he wouldn’t know what hit him. There would be nothing he could do but wait for the dye to wear off.  Joe snickered to himself.  What would Adam s date think tonight , when he showed up all green.  Joe smiled a wicked smile and stood waiting patiently.  After a few moments he heard footsteps.  He peeked around the doorway just as Adam entered his room.  Joe quickly went down the stairs.  There was no one in sight.  Hoss must be in the barn Joe thought to himself.  He heard Hop Sing humming some tune in the kitchen.  Joe slipped out the front door and entered the bath house form the door that faced the porch.  Hop Sing had a steaming bath all ready, waiting for its mudding cowboy.  Joe went over to the large copper tub. He pulled the cork out of the amber bottle.  He then lifted the bottle and watched the contents pour slowly into the tub.  You couldn’t even see it in the water. Hop Sing has added some bubble bath to the water, so the foamy top of the water hid the intruding substance.  Joe then carefully put the cork back into the bottle and wrapped it in his handkerchief.  He didn’t even notice at the  time, but he had gotten some green dye on his fingers.  This would later link him to the crime.  However, right now he was unaware of the evidence on his hands. 

After the bottle was wrapped safely and tucked in his pocket, he turned and tiptoed back into the house.  He went back upstairs and hid the evidence in his sock drawer.  He would be sure to dispose of it sometime tomorrow.  All he had to do now was wait.  He heard Adams door open and he heard his brothers footsteps go down the stairs.  Joe was so smug, the thought that he was actually going to pull this prank on Adam, was making him want to jump for joy..  However, unbeknown to Joe just as Adam was getting ready to enter the bath house, Ben galloped into the yard.  He looked worse than Adam.  Adam set his clean clothes on the table on the porch. He then walked over the his father.  Hoss had already taken Buck into the barn for Ben.  “Pa, you look awful. How many times did you fall in the mud today?” Adam asked looking his father up and down.  “We’ll more than you.” Ben mumbled.  You know pa, Hop Sing has a hot bath all fixed up f or me.  Why don’t you go ahead and go first.  I can wait. “We’ll son that’s mighty nice of you.  I sure could use a hot bath right now.  I’m getting to old for this.” Ben smiled at Adam while limping toward the house.  “I’ll go up and get you some clean clothes pa.  The water is probably just right.” Adam turned and walked back to the house.  

After Ben entered the bath house he stopped and stood by the steaming water.  He couldn’t wait to slip into the enticing tub, and get the dry caked on mud of his itching skin.  Ben them peeled off his mud caked clothes and threw them in the corner on a stool.  He then lifted his left leg into the water.  The water was just right, not too hot and not too cold.  He then lifted his other leg into the tub and slid his body deep into the soothing water.  He laid his head back on the tub and closed his eyes.  Meanwhile, Adam went back into the house to get pa some clean clothes.  When he entered the front door he saw Joe coming down the stairs.  Joe stopped in mid step glaring at Adam.  He was for sure that Adam would have been soaking in the hot tub by now. “What are you doing here?” Joe asked his brother, his eyes wide as biscuits.  “I live here.” replied Adam.  “That’s not what I mean,” said Joe,  e I thought you were taking a bath.”  “Oh, I was getting ready too, but pa rode into the yard, so I let him go first.” Adam explained to his little brother. “I just came in to get pa some clean clothes.” “Pa…pa’s taking a bath, right now?” Joe asked, he was now breaking out in sweat. Adam looked at his little brother with a puzzled expression, “Yeah, he’s already soaking in the tub.  Why do you ask?”  “No reason.” Joe answered quickly.  Joe then turned and ran up the stairs back into his room.  He couldn’t believe this was happening.  Pa was in the bath intended for Adam. And what was pa going to say when he got out of the tub and was all green.  Joe shuddered at the thought.  Then his thought shifted, they couldn’t link him to the green water.  Nobody even seen him go into the bath house.  Why would they even think he had something to d o with it.  Joe sank into the dark corner of  his room, It wouldn’t be long now and the fun or not so fun would begin.

After Adam gathered some clean clothes for his father, he headed back down stairs to deliver them to the bath house.  He went to the door and knocked.  He heard his fathers voice say come in.  So Adam entered the small room, he could see the back of Bens head resting on the back of the cooper tub.  
“Pa here’s your clean clothes.” Adam informed his father as he placed the clean attire on the top of an empty chair.  “Thank son.” Ben muttered half asleep.  Adam turned to leave the room.  He just happened to glance over and noticed something strange. “Pa?” Adam asked as if he did not recognize the man. “What’s the matter boy?” Ben asked slightly opening his eye.  Adam was hovering over Ben his eyes wide and his mouth hanging open. “Pa ummm…….” Adam didn’t know how to start.  “Spit it out son.” Ben said frowning at his son.  “We’ll pa your,” Adam hesitated. “Your all green.” “WHAT!” Ben yelled lifting his hands out of the water. “What’s going on here?” Ben demanded an answer.  “I don’t know pa, I didn’t have anything  to do with it.” Adam said now slightly smiling.  “Get Hop Sing, NOW!” Ben bellowed.  Adam turned and went to the door that connected the kitchen to the bath house. “Hop Sing we need you quick.” Adam informed the cook. “Whatsa matta?” Hop Sing asked as he entered the room where the two men were.  “What happen to the water?” Ben yelled at Hop Sing.  The little cook realized Ben was green.  “Hop Sing not know, wata fine when I fix bath.”  At that moment Adam noticed a few drops of green dye on the floor beside the tub.  “Pa look, it looks as if someone did this on purpose.” Adam said while pointing at the drops. “We’ll if someone did and I find out who, they will wish I never did.” Ben was yelling even louder.  “Hop Sing, please get some clean water so we can try to get this off me.”  Hop Sing hurried a nd gathered buckets of clean not green water.

The three men scrubbed at Ben until most of his skin had turned a reddish green color.  “Green not come off Mr. Cartlight.” Hop Sing said with a long sigh. “Reminds Hop Sing of Easta egg dye, we used at Easta to color eggs.”  “Easter egg dye?” Ben repeated.  “Who would play such a joke as to put dye like this into some ones bath water?”  At that moment Adam and Ben turned their heads and looked at each other.  It occurred to them at the exact same moment and they both said the one name that came to mind Little Joe.  After they had done everything they could, they left Ben along to get dressed.  When Adam and Hop Sing went back into the house, Hoss was sitting in Adam’s blue chair.  Adam filled Hoss in on the green dye incident and warned him not to laugh at their father, whatever he did.  Ben was already mad enough, laughing at him would not help at all.  “Ya think Short Shanks di d it?” Hoss asked Adam.  “We’ll whose the only one who has disappeared since this all started? And he was acting funny earlier when I came back in to get pa some clean clothes.” Adam answered back to Hoss.  “We’ll ifin it was him, he’s ina heap of trouble.” Hoss remarked with a scowl on his face.  Just then Ben walked into the house.  His eyes burned dark with anger.  He was lucky that he hadn’t dunked himself under the water yet.  So his face and hair had very little green on them.  But his hands and lower arms looked like fresh green grass.  Hoss almost let out a giggle, but Adam kicked him in the leg with the tip of his boot. “Stop staring at me!!” Ben demanded.  Both the boys turned their heads hiding the half smiles on their faces.  “Adam,” Ben began. “Go find that younger brother of yours.  I think we need to have a talk.”   e Yes sir,” Adam said as he turned and went upstairs to fetch Joe. 

Adam knocked on Joe’s bedroom door. “Come in.” said a weak voice.  Adam walked into his brothers room.  “What are you doing in the corner?” Adam asked while crossing the room.  “Nothin.” Joe replied quickly.  “Pa wants you downstairs, now.  And don’t even think about dawdling, for he is in a bad mood.” Adam said as he towered over his youngest brother.  “Why?” asked Joe as if he had no idea.  Adam began to explain the whole thing to Joe, even though he was sure he knew all about it.  Joe just moaned. He followed his oldest brother down the stairs.  Even though Adam didn’t say Joe had caused this mess, he had a feeling he was the prime suspect.  When they got back downstairs, Ben lined his three sons up side by side.  He didn’t want to accuse the wrong person.  The first thing he did was show each of his sons his very green skin.  He took special care  to watch their expressions.  Adam stood tall and still. Hoss was almost giggling, while Joe keep gulping and shifting from one foot to the other.  Finally, he stood in front of each son and asked them eye to eye if they had anything to do with his umm….so called accident.  Adam and Hoss both passed with flying colors.  But when he reached his youngest, Joe keep his eyes to the floor trying to evade his fathers face.  Ben finally asked him one last time if he had any part of this incident.  Just then Joe’s hands flew up and he answered, “nope nothin.” However, Ben grabbed Joe’s left hand and what did he see on his fingers. GREEN DYE, matching what he wore on his own skin.  Joe was caught green handed.  He hadn’t even realized that he had gotten any dye on his hands.  He quickly jerked his hands from his fathers grasp and hid his hands behind his back.  He could feel his face flushing and his heart was speeding up.  Ben towered over  his youngest son.  “JOSEPH!!” Ben begin.  But Joe quickly interrupted, “But pa, I can explain.” “We’ll you better hope you can!” Ben raged.  “We’ll pa……it’s like this, well….WHAT WERE YOU DOING IN ADAMS BATH??” Joe started screaming at his father.  “What does Adam have to do with this?” asked Ben with a puzzled but stern look on his face.  “Well pa you see, umm…it was suppose to be a prank.” Little Joe started to say, but Ben cut him off.  “PRANK!!” Ben yelled, his face turning a bright red.  “Well yes sir, pa sir, but it was suppose ta be for Adam.” Joe was now getting very nervous.  “I thought we had agreed that there would be no more pranks.” Ben pointed out to Joe.  “Pa, you decided that there would be no more pranks. But I decided that there should be one  more.” Joe said pointing to himself. “Pa, I just had to get even with Adam.  He’s always telling me what to do and bossin me around.”  “You didn’t have to do any such thing.” Ben retorted, “you young man, are in the worse trouble of your life. You, go up to your room. I have to calm down before having any talk with you.”  Joe turned to head up the stairs.  He glanced back at his brothers, hoping someone would say something in his defense.  When nothing was said, Joe went up to wait in his room for his uncertain future.  He heard Ben calling to Hop Sing in the distant.  “Isn’t there anything we can use to get this stuff off my skin?”  

Adam was very glad he had escaped Joe’s prank If  he had been the one that took the bath, he would be the one with the glinting green skin.  And he did have a date later tonight with the new girl in town.  Adam was slightly daydreaming, when he heard his father tell him to wipe the smirk off his face.  “Yes pa, won’t happen again.” Adam said with the curling of the edge of his mouth.  Ben had even snapped at Hoss when he asked Adam to pass him a green apple.  “Is that suppose to be funny!!” Ben had snapped.  Hoss just gulped and said, “Na pa, I was just hungry.”
After what seemed forever to Joe.  There was a knock at his door.  Joe quickly stood to his feet, his heart racing.  “Come in.” he said.  Ben entered the room, dark and angry.  When Joe caught a glimpse of his green hands he snickered.  Unaware that his father had heard him..  “Well I’m glad you think this is a laughing matter Joseph.” Ben reached out and pushed the boys chin up so he was looking directly into his eyes.  “This would have never happened if you had stopped this nonsense, when I had told you to. You young man are going to pay the price for your disobedience.” Ben then took the chair that set by his sons desk and moved it closer to the bed.  Ben usually spanked the boy with his hand, but today he decided he needed something a little more firm.  So he started to remove his thick black belt.  “Pa, ya can’t beat me with a belt.” Joe cringed.  “I have no intention  of beating boy, only to give you what you deserve.”  However, before the “necessary talk” would delivered, Ben lectured him on responsibility of his actions, respect, and how there better not be anymore pranks.  He also informed him that he would be given extra chores, since he had too much extra time on his hands.  He would make sure any free time would be occupied, thus preventing anytime for young Joseph to find trouble.

Joe went to bed that night feeling quite remorseful for what he had done.  Mostly because he had been caught.  He was upset that pa had ended up being the victim instead of Adam.  No since in worrying about it now.  It was too late to fix it.  Joe rolled from his stomach to his side and carefully rubbed his very sore behind.  Gosh, Joe thought to himself. Pa, didn’t have to get so mad.  This was the worst tanning he had ever received and feared he would not forget it for many days to come.  What he dreaded the most was church in the morning.  Sitting in a hard wooden church pew, wasn’t exactly what he wanted to do.  He would much rather stay home.  But seeing he has been in so much trouble, he knew better than to even ask.  If Ben could go to church green, then Joe could go with a sore bottom.
The next morning the ride to church was silent.  Joe was some what glad that Ben had decided that the family would ride together in the buckboard.  He didn’t think he could have handled the ride on the back of his horse all the way to town.  The buckboard was bad enough.  Every time they hit a bump, he would moan slightly to himself.  His brothers would glance over at him, but said nothing, for they all knew why he was making such sounds.  They then all looked over and saw their fathers green hands holding the reins.  Hoss and Adam, who were riding in the back of the buckboard slightly grinned to themselves.  However, Joe wouldn’t dare smile, when he looked at his fathers colorful skin.  If he did he would be lectured all over again, or even worse.  He did not want to risk another tanning so soon, his backside was still sore from yesterdays punishment.  For once in Joe’s life he was glad to see the church come into sight.  He would finally be able to stan d up for a few minutes and stretch his legs, before having to sit down again.  Before the family entered the church, Ben took his youngest to the side to give him a warning about appropriate behavior in church.  Joe looked at his father shocked.  It’s like nobody trust me, Joe thought to himself.  The family went into the church and listened to the rather boring sermon.  As they left each person stopped to shake the ministers hand.  When Ben reached the waiting minister and began to reach out and shake his hand the godly man pulled his hand back.  Ben looked at him strangely and then realized the man was staring at Ben’s green hands.  “It’s a long story.” Ben said while glancing over to his youngest son.  “Well Mr. Cartwright, if it involves Joseph, I’m sure it is.”  Ben began to blush but decided not to explain the whole sorted mess that had happened the day before.  Instead he grasped his sons shoulders an d led him out of the church.  The exchange between the minster and Ben did however fluster him to the point that, Ben began scolding Joe all over again. “That was the most embarrassing day of my life.” Ben bellowed at Joe.  Joe bit his lip and then said, “Sorry pa, won’t ever happen again.”  “It better not young man, if you know what’s good for you.” Ben said as he started the horses toward home.  “Yes sir.” Joe replied.  “And if I hear about one more prank being played you man, you will not be able to sit for month.” Ben continued to growl.  Joe scrunch up his noes.  How was he going to get back at Adam?? He looked at his fathers stern face and gulped.  “No more pranks pa, I promise.” Joe said as he crossed his fingers behind his back.  Joe knew in the back of his mind he was going to have to pull one more prank.  But he would have to wait aw hile.

When they arrived back at the Ponderosa, everyone jumped out of the buckboard to go wash up for lunch.  Joe quickly ran up the stairs to his room.   First he found a blank piece of paper. Then he found a pencil. He sat down gingerly at his desk and labeled the top of the paper in large bold letters…ADAMS PRANK (TRY #2)…………………