Summary:  The women of the town try to help the Cartwright family after Marie’s death, causing Ben nothing but headaches.
Rating:  G  13,690 words

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For The Best

 

Adam lifted his little brother down from the buckboard and placed him on his feet. “Morning ma’am,” he said tipping his hat to a woman who was passing.

 

The woman stopped and smiled at him. “Adam Cartwright,” she said. “How are you dear?  And how is your father?”

 

Adam nodded. “Fine thanks,” he replied. “Much better now.”

 

“And your poor family?”

 

“Fine, thank you.”

 

“Good,” she said kindly and patted Little Joe on the head. “Poor little thing,” she sighed before walking away. Joe gave her a puzzled look and then shrugged as he followed Adam into the store.

 

“Morning,” said Adam again, tipping his hat this time to a group of women who were standing by the counter inspecting some bolts of cloth.

 

“Good morning Adam,” said Sarah Parkins. “Nice to see you.”

 

“Adam,” said Beatrice Henderson. “How is your father keeping?”

 

“Much better, thank you ma’am,” replied Adam politely.

 

“Pa ain’t sick,” Little Joe informed the woman.

 

“Poor little thing,” said Beatrice, patting him on the head. “Such a shame!” Joe gave her a puzzled look, then looked at Adam questioningly and opened his mouth to speak. Adam shook his head at him and he turned to stare at the candy on the counter instead.

 

“Give your father our regards please Adam,” said Sarah as the women made to leave the shop. She pinched Joe’s cheek as she passed him and gave him a kindly smile. “Poor little thing,” she said before sighing again.

 

Joe scowled after her, for if there was one thing he hated above all others it was having his cheek pinched by well-meaning ladies. “I’ve just come to settle our account for Pa,” Adam said to the man behind the counter. “You want to choose some candy while I’m paying?” he said to his brother. Joe simply looked at him with a worried expression. “Well, do you want some candy or not?” asked Adam. “Hurry up.” Joe nodded and said nothing. “Well …” said Adam, beginning to get impatient with the child. “Choose what you want.” Joe simply looked at his brother and shook his head.

 

“I better not,” he said, looking at the candy longingly.

 

“Why not?” asked Adam.

 

“Cause we can’t afford to pay no money fer it,” Joe explained sadly.

 

Adam bent down so that his face was level with that of his little brother’s. “What are you talking about?” he asked. “I’ve got money from Pa to buy candy for you. He said you could choose some … and some for Hoss as well …. Remember?”

 

Little Joe looked confused for a moment. “Yes,” he said slowly. “But I better not …. Pa don’t have much money for stuff like candy.”

 

This time it was Adam’s turn to look confused. “What on earth would make you think that?” he asked.

 

“Them ladies,” replied Joe sadly. “They all said we was poor and that I was a poor little thing.”

 

Adam tried not to laugh at the child’s interpretation of the women’s kindly words. “They weren’t talking about that kind of poor, Joe,” he explained. “We’ve got plenty of money for candy. Now choose some if you want to.”

 

Joe’s eyes lit up again and he spent the next ten minutes meticulously going through all the enticing jars of candy on the counter while Adam paid their account. By the time they’d finished, he had two cones of paper wrapped up … one in each hand … and a giant smile on his face. “Can I eat one now Adam?” he asked as his brother lifted him up onto the buckboard outside again.

 

“Sure,” replied Adam with a twinkle in his eye. “As long as you give me one.” Joe dutifully handed his brother a lemon drop and then popped a large peppermint into his own mouth. He sucked on it happily as they drove down the Main Street and it wasn’t until they were well on their way down the trail towards The Ponderosa that he opened his mouth again to speak.

 

“So what did they mean?” Joe suddenly asked through his peppermint.

 

“Hmm?” replied Adam, his mind on other things.

 

“What did them ladies mean when they called our family and me poor?” asked Joe. “You said it was another kind of poor. What kind?”

 

Adam sighed. “They meant that they felt sorry for our family,” he explained.

 

“Why?”

 

“Because …” Adam hesitated before continuing. “Because your Mama died,” he said.

 

Joe’s eyes misted over. “Oh,” he said and was silent.

 

Adam glanced down at his little brother, his heart going out to him. “How about another piece of candy?” he said. “Pa wouldn’t mind if you had two.” Joe shook his head and was silent. After a few moments he scrunched over towards Adam on the seat of the buckboard and cuddled into him. Adam put one arm around his sad little brother and hugged him as they drove slowly towards home.

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

The two women pulled the buggy to a halt and looked around. “Such a beautiful home,” one said to the other. “Such a shame for the family, isn’t it?”

 

“It is indeed,” said the second woman, getting down carefully from the buggy and reaching up for the basket that had been on the seat beside her. “Poor Marie.” She sighed as she waited for the first woman to get down as well. Suddenly there was a whooping noise from around the other side of the barn and a small boy appeared, running at a fast rate. He was covered in dirt from head to foot and his shirt was hanging out of his trousers. His suspenders were all tangled with each other and his curly hair was in disarray. Both women stared at him as he came to a halt beside them and smiled up at them.

 

“Hi,” he said.

 

“Hello Joseph,” said the first woman. “Um …. Is your Pa at home dear?”

 

The little boy shrugged. “I dunno,” he said.

 

The first woman looked at the second woman. “Then is your big brother Adam at home?”

 

The child shook his head. “Nope,” he said. “He’s gone ta work. Hoss is at school so he ain’t here neither.” He put his head on one side and studied the two women for a moment. “Whatcha got in the basket?” he asked curiously.

 

Something for your Pa dear,” said the first woman. She put out her hand to pat him on the head, but then thought better of it as she looked at the many sticks and twigs entwined in between his curls. “Surely you’re not here by yourself?” she asked looking around.

 

“Nope,” said Joe. “Hop Sing is in the house.” He waved his arm in the general direction of the kitchen. “I gotta go now. I’m looking fer my frog.” He took off again around the back of the house, just as Hop Sing flung open the kitchen door.

 

“You come back!” he shouted at the disappearing child, but to no avail … as Joe ignored him and kept on running. Hop Sing shrugged and was about to close the door, when he spied the two women. He immediately smiled at them and motioned for them to come inside. “Missy Parkins, Missy Henderson. Mr Cartwright not here. Come inside and have coffee?”

 

Sarah looked at Beatrice before stepping forward. “No thank you Hop Sing,” she said, handing him the basket. “We just wanted to leave this. We thought it might help … you know … with all the trouble and all.”

 

Hop Sing took the basket and peeped inside to see two pots of stew and a cake. “Very nice,” he said. “Mr Cartwright say thank you.”

 

Sarah nodded. “You’re welcome,” she said. “Anything to help. All the women in town feel so sorry for the Cartwrights’ recent loss. Poor Ben.”

 

At that moment, Little Joe appeared again with a large frog in his hand. “I got him,” he announced happily. “He was hiding out the back.” He thrust the frog under the women’s noses. “You wanna see him?”

 

Sarah and Beatrice both took a step back simultaneously. “No, thank you dear,” one of them muttered. “Not right now.”

 

Hop Sing reached out and collared the child, giving him a slight shake. “Where you been?” he said sternly. “You all messy!”

 

“Down at the creek getting my frog,” replied Little Joe. He held it out for Hop Sing’s inspection, but the man simply shoved him towards the kitchen.

 

“You go inside and I clean you up,” he instructed and Joe smiled at both the women before obeying.

 

“Are you left in charge of that child every day?” asked Beatrice.

 

Hop Sing shook his head. “Mr Cartwright and Mr Adam need work,” he said. “Not every day … but some days. Him naughty boy sometimes,” he added.

 

“Surely that’s very difficult for you with all you have to do now that Marie is gone,” sniffed Beatrice, obviously disapproving of the arrangement.

 

Hop Sing shrugged again. “Not mind,” he said. “He naughty boy, but he not mean it.” He looked at the women again. You not come in for coffee?” he asked.

 

They both shook their heads. “No, thank you,” Sarah said. “We need to get back to town now. Please tell Ben to let us know if there is anything we can do.”

 

“I do that,” said Hop Sing as the two women got back into the buggy. He waved to them both and then turned to grab Little Joe again who was attempting to sneak out from the kitchen with his frog. As they round the bend beside the barn, Sarah looked back and saw Hop Sing frantically pointing his finger at Little Joe as he swatted his backside.

 

“Disgraceful,” she sniffed as they set off down the trail. “Did you see the state of that child? Poor Marie would have a fit if she could see him running wild in that way.”

 

“Leaving him in the charge of that Chinese cook all day,” mused Beatrice. “Still, I suppose poor Ben doesn’t have a choice with all the work he has to do. Such a sad situation.”

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

Little Joe looked up at his father to see if he was watching him before sliding across the pew towards the aisle. Ben continued to stare straight ahead of him as if lost in thought, his mind a million miles away as he prayed for the soul of his dead wife. Joe reached down and picked up a spider that was crawling across the aisle near the Cartwright pew and tucked in into his pocket for later. He turned around on his seat to stare at the people behind him, grinning at them all before getting up and kneeling on the seat to get a better look.

 

Adam leant forward and reached around his father, pulling the child to a sitting position again, much to Joe’s disgust. Adam pointed a finger at the minister and Joe pouted as he sat up and folded his arms across his chest to give the impression that he was listening. As Adam sat back again he glanced at his father in between them. The man acted as if he hadn’t even noticed what had happened … and Adam figured that he probably hadn’t. There were times when he could scream at him to come out of the lethargy he seemed to retreat into at time such as this and although these times were becoming less frequent, they were still enough for Adam to worry what was going to happen when he left for college in a few months and his father had sole responsibility for Hoss and Joe again. Since his stepmother had died, Adam had taken on a major role in helping his father … both on the ranch and with his two brothers … but he couldn’t put his life on hold forever. All he could do was pray that in time his father would rouse himself fully and come back to them as he had been before Marie’s death.

 

As the congregation stood up Little Joe got down on his knees to look for something on the floor and as his father once more ignored him, Adam reached down and pulled the little boy to his feet and past his father towards himself. “But I was just …” Little Joe began to protest. Adam put his hand over his brother’s mouth and shook his head as they began to sing the last hymn and Joe was silent.

 

As soon as the strains of the last hymn ended, both Little Joe and Hoss started struggling to get past Adam and make it outside quickly. Adam gave his father a frustrated look as the man sat down and hung his head, obviously praying again. Adam collared Little Joe and nodded to Hoss to get out of the seat before them, then followed with Joe in tow. Once again, he knew that it would be up to him to keep an eye on his brothers until their father was ready to come out of his reverie again.

 

Ben sat looking at the crucifix as the church gradually emptied of people. He felt so alone at times like this. It was true that he had his boys and he loved them dearly, but life at times still seemed so empty without his beloved Marie. He had sensed everyone watching himself and the boys during the service and he knew that there was a great deal of pity around the town for them all, but he wished that they would all just let his family get on with their lives. They all meant well … like the two women who’d come the other day with food for them … but there was really nothing that anyone could do to make their family whole again.

 

With a deep sigh, Ben stood up and walked out of the church, scanning the small churchyard for his boys. Hoss was talking to a group of his friends over by the buggy and Adam was talking to a young lady while trying to keep Little Joe by his side. Ben smiled at his youngest son and Joe broke free from his brother and ran over to him, holding his arms up to his father. It was the first time Ben taken notice of him all morning and Joe had learned by now that he had to make the most of it when his father was like this.

 

Ben swooped up the boy and gave him a quick hug. “Have you been good for your brother?” he asked teasingly.

 

Little Joe nodded. “Yep,” he said, really believing that he had. To the small boy, his many transgressions were usually forgotten as soon as they were over and he literally lived life for the moment. “We going home now Pa?”

 

“Soon,” replied his father. He walked over to the small group of women who were standing near the gate and tipped his hat to them. “Ladies,” he said. “I wanted to thank you for the food you brought out the other day.”

 

Sarah Parkins gave him a kind smile. “Don’t mention it Ben,” she said. “We’re all just happy to do anything to help that we can.” She pinched Little Joe’s cheek and the boy scowled at her and brushed her hand away angrily.

 

“Stop that!” said Ben in a sharper tone than he’d meant to use. Joe took no notice of his father and continued to scowl at the woman who smiled back at him.

 

“No harm done,” she said. “Ben, I … that is we …. would like a word with you about something though.”

 

“Of course,” replied Ben. Sarah gave Little Joe a meaningful look and Ben put the boy down on his feet and gave him a slight push. “Go over with Adam,” he said, but Joe stood his ground.

 

“I wanna stay with you Pa,” he said stubbornly.

 

“I said to go,” said Ben tersely. He hadn’t intended to be cross with the child, but nowadays he just didn’t seem to have the patience that he’d had before. Joe clung to his father’s legs and Ben brushed him off roughly. “Do as I say!” he snapped and immediately felt contrite as Joe’s bottom lip dropped and he ran over towards Adam.

 

“Don’t be so rough on the child,” admonished Sarah. “He didn’t mean anything by it Ben.”

 

“I know,” said Ben, thinking that he’d make it up to the boy on the way home. “Now, what is it you wanted to say?”

 

Sarah looked at Beatrice and the other women. “When Beatrice and I were at The Ponderosa the other day we noticed how … well … busy Hop Sing seemed to be.” Ben waited. “None of us would ever mind watching Little Joe for you Ben,” she said. “What with work and all it must be difficult for you now that Marie’s gone.”

 

Ben’s heart lurched as it always did whenever someone actually mentioned his wife’s death. “Thank you,” he said. “But we’re managing. Hop Sing doesn’t mind watching Joe and between Adam and myself we get by.”

 

“But Adam will be leaving for college in a few weeks,” insisted the woman. “And frankly Ben, the child looked …. well … rather worse for wear when we saw him.”

 

Ben bristled at her words. “I’m sure I’ll manage,” he said stiffly. “Thank you anyway.”

 

Sarah put a hand on his arm. “What about Hoss?” she asked.

 

Ben gave her a strange look. “What about him?” he asked.

 

“Well, Abigail Jones says that he’s very distracted at school. Perhaps all of this is telling on him as well?”

 

Ben raised an eyebrow. “I’m sure it is,” he said politely. “But as I said, I will manage my own sons thank you. And I’d appreciate you not discussing my sons with Miss Jones.”

 

“Ben …”

 

Ben tipped his hat at the women. “Good day ladies,” he said stiffly and walked towards the buggy, pulling Joe away from Adam as he passed him.

 

“Ow!” said Little Joe indignantly as his father pulled him after himself. “I done nothing Pa!”

 

Ben stopped and looked down at the little boy before picking him up. “I’m sorry son,” he said. “Pa is just feeling a bit angry that’s all.” He looked over at Hoss. “Come on Hoss!” he shouted. “Time to go home!”

 

“Are ya angry with me?” asked Joe tentatively.

 

Ben gave the little boy a hug. “Of course not,” he said. “I’m sorry I was rough with you Little Joe.” Joe grinned at his father and Ben smiled back at him, secure in the knowledge that this youngest son of his was never one to hang onto his moods for long. “Let’s get home,” he said, placing the child in the buggy as Hoss came bounding up. “We might go fishing this afternoon eh?” Both boys smiled at him and nodded their heads as Adam came to join them.

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

Ben lit his pipe and took a deep breath, relishing the smell of the tobacco as it lit. He took a couple of deep breaths and closed his eyes momentarily, opening them up to stare into the flickering flames in the fire before him. He stretched his long legs, pleased to be able to finally rest. It had been a long week and hadn’t been helped by Hop Sing’s bad temper. It seemed that nearly every day some woman from town had arrived with an offering of food for them and the cook had become increasingly sour because of it.

 

“They think Hop Sing not feed family well enough!” he said indignantly to Ben after one particular woman had left that very afternoon.

 

Ben had sighed. “Hop Sing, you know it’s not that,” he said. “They’re just trying to be good neighbours, that’s all.”

 

“Hmph!” said the man. “Hop Sing can cook plenty for family. Not need extra.”

 

“I know I know,” Ben said soothingly. “Just humour them for now Hop Sing. For my sake …. Please?”

 

The cook had stomped off into the house, obviously not placated and Ben had had to continually remind the boys not to comment too favourably on the food they’d been given during each meal. Hop Sing was a wonderful housekeeper and a superb cook, but he did tend to be rather possessive and it sometimes made life difficult. Ben wished that the women would stop trying to be so helpful, but he couldn’t think of way to tell them so without offending them. They were simply doing what neighbours often did at such times and helping in the only way they knew how.

 

He did wish that people would stop giving him such pitying looks every time they saw him though. He really needed to start getting on with life, and while he recognised their sympathy for the kindness that it was … it didn’t really help him. He knew that every time Marie’s death was mentioned it was hard on the boys too and while he wanted them to talk about it and grieve for her, he didn’t want it to control their whole lives. He only hoped that in time people would focus on something else.

 

He wondered if he would ever be able to. There were times when he still found himself wanting noting more than to retreat into himself and that feeling resulted in him being cross with the boys for placing demands upon him. Try as he would not to allow himself to do so, he still lost his temper with them at times when he shouldn’t. He knew that they needed him so much at the moment and he was trying desperately to be there for them, but he still found it so very hard. He felt that he wasn’t giving them the attention they deserved and he hated himself for it.

 

Only the other day he’d seen Abigail Jones in town and she’d confirmed what the women had already told him. Hoss was finding school more difficult than usual lately and had withdrawn into himself more than he usually did. He didn’t seem to be coping with things academically or socially and that worried Ben a great deal. He had resolved to talk to the boy, but so far hadn’t been able to stir himself emotionally to do so.

 

He’d found Little Joe running wild on a number of occasions in the past week and had made a greater effort to supervise the child as well. He supposed that it was only going to get worse when Adam left at the end of the month, for his eldest son had been a pillar of strength in looking after the emotional and physical needs of both his brothers, but Ben knew that he couldn’t and shouldn’t rely on him any longer. Adam had his own needs and his own life to live, just as his brothers did.

 

Ben practically had to force his eldest son to go into town tonight and have some fun. There was a time when Adam would have fought to get into town at the end of a long week of work, but now he simply saw it as his duty to look after his younger brothers and be around in case they needed him. Ben was having trouble convincing him that he was now once again capable of looking after the boys, but he was certainly working on it.

 

He glanced over to the coffee table where Hoss was attempting to teach Joe how to play checkers and smiled as he saw the little boy try to cheat yet again. “Put that back,” said Hoss sternly. “Ya can’t put that piece there.”

 

“Why not?” asked Joe indignantly. “That’s where I want it ta go!”

 

“But it don’t go there,” protested Hoss. “Pa! Tell Joe it can’t go there!”

 

“Play the game properly Joseph,” said his father wearily. He shut his eyes again and began to think of how wonderful it used to be when Marie had been alive and they had both sat here in front of the fireplace when …. He jumped slightly as the sound of a loud knock came on the front door and then got to his feet to walk over and open it. “Well this is nice,” he said to the couple standing on the front porch. “Please come in Sarah and Fred.” He motioned inside as Fred and Sarah Parkins came into the house.

 

“Hello boys,” said Sarah, smiling at Hoss and Little Joe kindly. “Poor little things,” she breathed to her husband.

 

Joe scowled at her as she bent down to pinch his cheek and Hoss dutifully replied, “Evening ma’am, evening sir,” before going turning back to his game.

 

“I’ll get some coffee from the kitchen,” said Ben. “Please sit down.”

 

“Well,” said Fred jovially. “Playing checkers I see.”

 

“Yes sir,” replied Hoss as he reached over and took a piece from Joe’s hand. “I done told ya before Joe, ya can’t jest take em like that!”

 

“Can so!” replied Joe heatedly. “I wanna put it on another square!”

 

“Well ya can’t,” said Hoss crossly, replacing the piece on the board. Joe scowled at him and picked it up again. “Ya put that back or I’ll pound ya one Joe,” threatened Hoss. Joe simply continued to scowl at his brother and put the checker piece down on another square. Hoss leant across the board and pulled on his little brother’s collar as Ben re-entered the room with a tray in his hands.

 

“Hoss! Leave your brother alone!” he said sternly, giving an apologetic look to Sarah and Fred.

 

“Yeah!” shouted Joe indignantly. “Leave me alone Hoss!” He wriggled to free himself from his brother’s grip, but Hoss kept hold of him firmly.

 

“Behave yourselves!” Ben said in a raised voice. His two sons took no notice of him, but continued to struggle with each other, knocking the checkerboard onto the floor and scattering the pieces all around.

 

“Now look what ya’ve done!” shouted Hoss crossly.

 

“I neva done it!” shouted Joe, just as crossly. “You done it!”

 

Ben put down the tray before grabbing a boy in each hand. “That will do!” he shouted. “Upstairs the both of you! Get!” He turned to Sarah and Fred apologetically as Hoss slunk up the stairs. Little Joe stood his ground for a moment longer, eyeing his father off before deciding the wisest course of action would be to follow Hoss upstairs. “I’m sorry,” said Ben as he sat down and began to pour out the coffee. “They’ve both become quite a handful lately. I just don’t seem to be able to keep the control I once did.”

 

“That’s understandable,” replied Fred, giving his wife a meaningful look. “You’ve all been through a lot lately.” He cleared his throat. “Actually Ben, that’s why we’ve come to see you.”

 

“Yes,” said Sarah, sitting forward on her seat. “And we’d rather have talked about without the boys around anyway.”

 

Ben raised an eyebrow as he handed them their coffee. “Oh?” he said. “Talk about what?”

 

“You,” said Sarah. “Well actually, you and the boys. Things are hard for all of you at the moment Ben, everyone can see that. Fred and I would like to help.”

 

“Thank you,” replied Ben as he sipped his coffee. “But we’re managing.”

 

Sarah hesitated. “Ben, I don’t think you are,” she said. “Beatrice and I were out here the other day and … well, frankly we didn’t like what we saw.” Ben stared at her in surprise. “Now please don’t be offended Ben,” she continued. “But Little Joe was running wild.”

 

“Hop Sing was looking after him,” said Ben stiffly.

 

“Of course,” she said. “But surely he has enough to do without watching a little boy all the time? Marie would ….” She hesitated as she saw a look of despair flit across Ben’s face at the mention of his late wife’s name. “Marie would want better for him.” She finished and then held up her hand as Ben opened his mouth to speak. “Now I know your feelings on the matter,” she went on. “After we’d spoken at church the other day I went home and talked to Fred about it. We’re both here to offer once more to take the boys for you. Just through the week,” she added quickly as Ben began to frown. “Monday to Friday each week while Hoss is at school. Please say that you’ll think about it.”

 

“I don’t think ….”

 

“Please think about it Ben,” interrupted Fred. “We just want to help and frankly …” he put his hand on Ben’s arm. “Frankly Ben, everyone is worried about you. We all think that you need support.”

 

“So everyone is talking behind my back about me?” said Ben stiffly.

 

“It’s not like that at all,” said Sarah. “We just care about you and the boys, that’s all.”

 

Ben put his head down and placed his hands over his face. “I know,” he said in a low voice.

 

“No one is trying to take the boys from you Ben,” said Sarah kindly. “Only …” she looked across at Fred who nodded his head slightly. “Only we all think that you need some time to yourself, without the boys to look after. You need to get your life back together.”

 

“My boys are my life,” replied Ben, looking up. “I appreciate you offering in this way … I really do … but it’s not possible. I simply need my boys with me.”

 

Up on the top step where they were both sitting unseen but listening to the conversation, Hoss looked at Joe and motioned for him to follow as he headed back to his bedroom. “Dang old lady!” said Little Joe angrily as soon as the door was safely closed. “She ain’t taking me nowhere!”

 

“You heard Pa,” said Hoss. “He won’t let em take us nowhere Joe. Ya don’t haveta worry.”

 

“I’ll kick her!” declared Joe angrily, demonstrating with his small foot how he’d do just that. “She done pinched my cheek too! I hate that!” He folded his small arms over his chest and glared at his brother, reminding Hoss of a miniature version of their older brother Adam when he had his mind set on something. Even though they didn’t look at all alike, his older and younger brothers often had similar expressions that made him realise just how alike they were in many ways. “I’ll kick her hard!” Joe said again, kicking out with his foot and accidentally connecting it with Hoss’ shin.

 

“Watch what ya’re doing!” said Hoss angrily, giving his younger brother a shove that sent him backwards a step or two.

 

Joe regained his balance and glared at his brother. “Don’t ya push me!” he shouted, pummelling his small fists on Hoss’ broad stomach. Within seconds the two brothers were rolling on the floor, fists flying.

 

Suddenly, Joe grunted in pain and rolled onto his back on the floor. “Ow!” he yelled.

 

Hoss sat up, immediately contrite. “What’s the matter Joe?” he asked anxiously. “Did I done hurt ya?”

 

Joe held onto his elbow, his face contorted in pain. “My elbow!” he said in a strangled tone. “Ow!”

 

Hoss glanced at the open doorway and then got up and closed the door before sitting down on the floor next to his brother. “Shh!” he said. “Pa’ll hear and then we’ll be in trouble.” He sat his little brother up gently. “Is it better now?”

 

Joe nodded, trying not to cry. “Some,” he said. He tested moving his arm. “It don’t hurt iffen I don’t move it.” He gave Hoss a reassuring look. “It’ll be OK Hoss. Stop fussin.”

 

“What is going on up here?!?” Ben’s voice boomed across the room as he flung the door open and glared at his two sons. “I can hear that ruckus downstairs! You …” He pointed to Little Joe. “Get into your own room and get ready for bed. And you …” he pointed to Hoss. “Get your homework done!”

 

“Yes Pa,” mumbled both boys and waited until they heard Ben’s footsteps going back down the stairs before looked at each other and giggled.

 

“Show me that elbow Joe,” said Hoss as he reached over and pulled his little brother to his feet. “Mebbe ya should get Pa ta look at it.”

 

“I done told ya its fine,” said Joe, trying to sound casual. “I’d better get ta bed afore Pa tans my butt. Night Hoss.”

 

“Night Joe,” replied Hoss before turning to his dreaded homework with a sigh.

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

“Hoss?”

 

Hoss turned to see his younger brother standing in the doorway in his trousers, his suspenders down around his legs and his bare torso shivering in the early morning chill. “What are ya doing?” asked Hoss. “You wanna get sick? Finish getting dressed Joe!”

 

Joe made a face and took a step into the room and held out his shirt and jacket. “I can’t get my arm into em,” he explained. “Can you do it for me Hoss?”

 

“I think we’d better tell Pa what happened last night,” said Hoss as he slid his brother’s shirt on and then buttoned up his jacket for him. “Your arm could be real hurt Joe.”

 

“Nah!” said Joe bravely. “I done told ya last night Hoss. It don’t hurt none less I move it, so I jest won’t move it much,” he concluded with six year-old logic. “It’ll get better by and by. Sides, iffen we tell Pa then we’ll get inta trouble. You said so yaself last night.”

 

Hoss nodded. “Yeah,” he said. “He’ll probably tan us both. Best we keep quiet then iffen ya say so Joe.” Even at his age he was beginning to be led by his more forceful younger brother … many times directly into trouble …. But Joe’s attitude seemed logical to him.

 

“Boys!” Their father’s loud voice could be heard from downstairs. “Get down here for breakfast immediately!”

 

Hoss looked and Joe and Joe looked at Hoss before they both scampered down the hallway, Joe being careful to keep his arm still. “Morning Pa,” they said in unison as they seated themselves at the breakfast table.

 

“About time you two got down here,” interjected Adam. “Hop Sing is in a bad enough mood without you two being late and adding to it.”

 

“Why’s he in a bad mood?” asked Hoss, eyeing off the vast array of food on the table before grabbing a bread roll.

 

Adam indicated the food. “All of this,” he replied. “It’s all come from women in the town and he thinks they have the impression that he’s not feeding us properly.”

 

Ben cleared his throat and gave them both a meaningful look as a grumpy Hop Sing entered the room carrying a basket of fruit. He plonked it on the table. “All bruised,” he commented. “Not good like Ponderosa fruit.”

 

“No offence to those women in town,” said Adam diplomatically. “But your bread rolls are much better than these ones Hop Sing.”

 

Hop Sing gave him a smile. “Is true,” he admitted.

 

“I like em,” said Hoss less tactfully with his mouthful.

 

“Me too,” added Little Joe even less so, wincing as he reached for one.

 

Hop Sing glared at both of them before flouncing out of the room again.

 

“Boys, it might be a good idea not to say how much you enjoy the women’s food when Hop Sing is around,” said Ben.

 

“Why?” asked Hoss through his mouthful. “It’s great Pa!”

 

“Great Pa,” echoed Little Joe, stuffing part of a roll into his mouth.

 

“Yes I know, but Hop Sing prefers us to like his own cooking,” said Ben. “Just tell him how good his is.”

 

Hoss gave his father a puzzled look as he reached for another roll. “You want us ta lie Pa?” he asked. “You’re always telling us not to.”

 

Ben hesitated as Adam gave him an amused look. “Well no,” he said after a moment. “Just mention how good Hop Sing’s cooking is and don’t talk about how good the rest of it is.”

 

“OK,” said Hoss happily. “But these are sure right tasty rolls.”

 

“Right tasty,” echoed Little Joe, grinning happily at his father as he pushed the last piece of his roll into his mouth with his good hand. Ben gave them both a wry smile.

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

“Joseph, hurry up,” said Ben, trying to keep the irritation out of his voice as he watched his son get slowly down from the buckboard. “I’ve got an appointment at the bank.”

 

“Yes Pa,” replied Little Joe as he dropped his feet to the ground. He gave his elbow a rub as a shot of pain ran through it at the jolt, but his father didn’t even notice. “We going to the mercantile too?” he asked as he tried to keep pace with his father’s long stride.

 

“Later,” said Ben absently. He tipped his hat to a group of women who were standing on the corner. “Ladies,” he said, nodding to them.

 

“Ben!” cried a voice behind him and Ben turned to see Roy Coffee standing waving at him. “How are things Ben? Haven’t seen you in town in quite a while.”

 

Ben forced a smile on his face as he so often found himself having to do when speaking to people lately. Roy Coffee was one of his best friends and had supported him though all his recent troubles, but he found it difficult to talk even to him. “Fine thanks,” he replied as Roy ruffled Little Joe’s curly hair.

 

“How about a cup of coffee?” asked Roy pleasantly.

 

“I’ll call by later Roy,” said Ben. “I’ve got an appointment at the bank.” He motioned to Joe who was fidgeting by his side. “Come along Joseph.” He grabbed the little boy by the hand and pulled him along beside him, not noticing the pained expression on the little boy’s face as he held back. “I said to come along!” he said in an irritated voice and jerked once again on his son’s hand.

 

“Ow!” cried the little boy. Tears began to fall down his face as a wave of pain shot through his elbow and up his arm. He began to sob and drew his hand back from his father.

 

Several of the women turned at the sound and Roy Coffee immediately looked concerned. “What’s the matter?” asked Ben, looking down at his son with concern on his face.

 

“Nuthin,” sobbed Joe, nursing his elbow in his other hand.

 

Roy took a few steps forward and several of the women clustered around. “It’s his arm,” said one of them helpfully. “Poor little mite is holding onto it.”

 

Ben bent down. “What’s the matter with your arm?” he asked.

 

“Nuthin,” repeated Joe, still nursing it.

 

“You pulled on it and hurt the poor little thing,” said a second woman. “I saw you.”

 

Guilt immediately coursed through Ben and he picked up his now sobbing little son. “Did I hurt you?” he asked contritely. “I’m sorry son, I didn’t mean to.” He ignored one of the women who sniffed behind him and the whispers of several of the others.

 

“Maybe you’d better get him down ta Doc Martin Ben,” suggested Roy. “That arm of his don’t look too good.”

 

Ben nodded as he noticed the strange angle that Joe was holding it at. “I will,” he said and turned to go. Behind him he heard the shocked voices of the women.

 

“Disgraceful!” said one.

 

“Did you see the way he hurt that poor little mite? You’d think that he’d have more sense.”

 

“I know he’s been upset … what with Marie and all … but really! To take it out on a small child like that … disgraceful!”

 

Ben’s face burned with guilt and embarrassment and he could hardly get away from them quickly enough. He tried not to joggle his son as he carried him towards the doctor’s office, but try as he would Little Joe was yelling with the pain by the time he got him there.

 

“What’s happened?” asked Doctor Paul Martin as he heard the noise and opened the door. “What on earth …” One look at the sobbing Little Joe in his father’s arms and he ushered Ben into the inner office without another word. Ben put Joe down on the examining table and hovered over the child anxiously as Paul began to gently probe his arm.

 

“His elbow is dislocated,” said the doctor shortly. “How did this happen?” He gently laid the child down on the table and began to slowly ease off his shirt.

 

Ben hesitated before taking off his hat and running his fingers through his hair. “I … I did it,” he admitted, looking away from the doctor’s amazed look as he spoke. “I guess it happened when I pulled on his arm.” He tried to soothe the sobbing little boy on the table and then then looked at Paul with an ashamed expression. “I didn’t think I was tugging on it that hard,” he said. “I just didn’t think.”

 

Paul nodded. “These things happen,” he said. “Children’s bones are very fragile. Hold onto him Ben while I give him a sedative. This is going to hurt him.”

 

Ben bent down over his son and held onto him as Paul gave him a sedative and then pushed the joint back into place with experienced hands. He winced as Little Joe screamed aloud at the sudden pain and tried to soothe him as his own pain at the thought of what he’d done washed over him. Never before had he been the cause of one of his sons being hurt and the very thought of the shame of it was enough to make him nearly cry.

 

As Paul was bandaging up Little Joe’s arm, he glanced at the expression on Ben’s face. “You didn’t mean it Ben,” he said. “You shouldn’t feel guilty about this.”

 

Ben shook his head as he lifted a quieter Little Joe into his arms and hugged him to his chest. “How can I not feel guilty Paul? What kind of father am I to have done such a thing to my own son?” He smoothed Little Joe’s curls as the little boy leant his head on his father’s shoulder. “There, there,” he whispered soothingly. “It’s all over now son. Pa’s going to take you home now.” He gave Paul another guilty look. “Thank you,” he said.

 

“Just keep that arm as still as possible,” instructed Paul as he showed Ben to the door. “And bring him into see me in a week or so.” He patted Ben on the arm. “He’ll be fine.” Ben nodded to him and carried Little Joe out into the street. He went straight to the buckboard, ignoring all those who stood and stared at him as he did so.

 

“Pa?” said a sleepy Little Joe as his father carefully placed him on the seat. “Ain’t ya going to the bank?”

 

“Forget that,” replied his father as he got up into the buckboard himself. “I’m getting you home.” He drew up the reins and then hesitated as Roy Coffee approached him.

 

“Ben!” shouted Roy as he waved at him. “Is Little Joe’s arm all right?” He gave the little boy an anxious smile and Joe gave him a weak one in return.

 

“His elbow was dislocated,” replied Ben in a low voice, conscious of all those standing around listening to him. “I’m going to get him straight home.” He drew up the reins again and propped the sedated Little Joe under one arm before driving off down the street, his face still red with embarrassment and shame.

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

“But Pa, Doc Martin said it wasn’t your fault,” insisted Adam. “You know that you didn’t mean to do it.”

 

“Nevertheless Adam, I did,” replied Ben. “The fact remains that because of my impatience your little brother was hurt and there’s no excuse for that.”

 

Adam sighed. “You’ve got to stop blaming yourself,” he said. “Joe’s arm will be fine in time. Doc Martin said so.”

 

Ben glanced over at his youngest son who was playing checkers with Hoss near the coffee table. He was propped up on his good arm, his bandaged arm propped on a pillow by his side. “I know,” he said softly. “But I just can’t forgive myself for what I did Adam.” He put his hands over his face. “How could I have hurt him like that?  I don’t deserve to be his father.”

 

Adam stared at his father, an anxious look on his face. He hadn’t seen him like this for weeks and before this had happened had been convinced that his father was coming out of his melancholy. Now it appeared that the situation with Little Joe had caused him to slip back into it again. “Pa …” he began, and then stopped as there was a knock on the front door. As his father didn’t look up at the sound, he got up himself and went to open it. “Evening Sheriff,” he said. “Evening Doc Martin.” He showed the two men into the room and indicated his father who was still sitting by the fireplace. “Pa’s over there.”

 

Both men took off their hats and went to sit down by Ben. “Evening Ben,” said Paul, giving the man an anxious look.

 

Ben looked up. “Roy … Paul …. What brings you two out here at night?”

 

Roy and Paul exchanged a look. “Actually, we came to talk to you,” replied Roy. He glanced at the two boys playing checkers. “Alone if that’s possible.”

 

Ben straightened up in his chair. “Of course,” he said. “Adam …. Could you please put Joe to bed? Hoss … up you go as well.”

 

“Aw gee Pa!” protested Hoss. “We ain’t finished our game!”

 

“Ain’t finished!” echoed Little Joe.

 

“You can finish it tomorrow,” said Ben. “Bed … the both of you.”

 

Both boys sighed and stood up. Adam steadied Little Joe on his feet and began to lead him toward the stairs, but stopped as Paul spoke. “I may as well take a look at that elbow while I’m here,” he said, beckoning the child over to him. Joe glanced at his father, who nodded, and then went to stand by the doctor.

 

“It’s good,” he said, giving the man a wary look. “It don’t hurt none now.”

 

Paul nodded as he undid the bandage. “That’s fine,” he said. “It’s healing nicely.” He ruffled the little boy’s curly hair when he’d done the bandage up again. “You can take it off in a few more days Ben,” he said.

 

Ben nodded and waited while his boys walked up the stairs. “Well?” he said as soon as they’d disappeared. “What did you want to talk to me about?”

 

Roy made a face and glanced at Paul before replying. “Well it’s like this Ben,” he said. “We’re kinda worried.”

 

Ben gave them both a frustrated look. “I’m fine,” he said shortly.

 

Roy gave Paul another look before continuing. “Well to be honest Ben, it ain’t you we’re worried bout. It’s them boys of yourn.”

 

“My boys?” asked Ben, with an anxious expression on his face. “What do you mean? Why are you worried about my boys? They’re fine …. Well, apart from Little Joe’s elbow of course.” He turned as Hop Sing entered the room with a scowl on his face and plonked a tray down on the coffee table.

 

“Coffee,” he said and left the room, still scowling.

 

Paul looked at Roy and then Ben. “Is there something the matter with Hop Sing?” he asked.

 

Ben shook his head. “He just out of sorts because of all the food we’ve been sent. You know how he gets.” He leant forward to pour out the coffee. “If it’s Little Joe’s elbow you’re worried about Roy, then you heard Paul say that he’s fine.” He handed around the cups.

 

Roy shrugged. “It ain’t really the elbow,” he said. “Although what happened in town the other day kinda prompted us ta come.”

 

Ben raised his eyebrows in response. “Oh?” he said.

 

“Now please don’t take this the wrong way Ben, but there’s been some talk in town,” explained Paul. “Some folks have been mighty worried about you and what with Little Joe the other day … well ….” He paused before continuing. “Roy and I thought it would be best for the two of us to come and see you about it.”

 

“You mean to come and check up on me,” said Ben tersely. “Why do people think that ….”

 

“People are just worried about you,” interrupted Roy. “They only want what’s best Ben.”

 

“Of course,” said Ben shortly.

 

“As a matter of fact,” said Paul. “There were a few people who wanted to come with us … but we stopped them.”

 

“Come with you? Why?”

 

“They feel that maybe. Now don’t take this the wrong way … but they feel that maybe the boys might be best taken away from you for while.”

 

Ben placed his cup on the table in front of him and stared at both of the men for a full minute. “What?” he said finally. “You can’t be serious? Who gives those … who give them the right to say whether or not my boys should be with me?”

 

“There’s been a lotta talk,” said Roy. “You know how people get when they’re riled up Ben. Seems that they think … well, they think that you ain’t looking after the boys too well lately.”

 

“I am quite capable of looking after my own sons!” exploded Ben angrily. “All this talk is just nonsense and the two of you know it!” He looked from one to the other and was surprised to see that neither of them met his eyes. “What?” he said. “Surely you two don’t agree with all of this?”

 

Paul sat forward on the sofa. “Ben, you must admit that you haven’t been yourself lately,” he said. “Think about it. Maybe it would be best for Hoss and Little Joe to stay with one of the neighbours for while until … well until you’re feeling up to it.”

 

“Up to it?” said Ben angrily. “Up to being a father to those boys? Let me tell you this Paul …” he turned to face the two of them, “… and you two Roy. Those boys need to be here with myself and Adam at the moment …. And Hop Sing … not with someone they hardly know. Their mother has just died, they need their family and ….” His eyes misted over. “… and I need them,” he finished.

 

Paul sighed. “Ben please don’t take this personally,” he said. “Well all know how hard it has been for you these past weeks. You’ve done your best, but with Adam leaving soon for back East and the way things are with you …”

 

“The way things are with me?” interrupted Ben. “I know that I didn’t cope for a while …. I’ll admit that … but with Adam and Hop Sing helping me and the grace of God, I got through it. Now just as I’m picking up the pieces of my life again you two come in here and …” He stopped, lost for words. “What gives you the right?” he asked.

 

Paul shook his head and stood up to face his friend. “Ben, we’ve known each other for years and I think the world of you and the boys …. As does Roy here as well … but I must be honest and say that I agree with what folks are saying. I have a duty as a doctor to ensure that those under my care are safe and healthy and frankly, I just can’t say that about your boys at the moment. You know that it’s true.”

 

Ben hesitated, remembering his own recent doubts. He stared at the doctor and said nothing. “Ben, Little Joe was hurt … not seriously, but still hurt. Next time it might not be so simple.”

 

“There won’t be a next time,” answered Ben softly. “I’ll make sure of that.”

 

“How?” asked Roy, standing up. “You ain’t in control of your own feelings at the moment Ben. Why don’t ya just admit ta that?”

 

“Think about what’s best for the boys,” urged Paul. “Let them stay with neighbours for a while … just until you’ve got your life back in order.”

 

Ben raked his fingers through his hair. “I … I don’t know,” he said softly. He looked at Paul and then Roy. “I’m sorry I sounded off at you both like that,” he added. “I just don’t ….” He sat down heavily on the sofa. “I just don’t know what to do ….” He covered his face with his hands. “I miss her so much,” he said through his fingers. “God help me but I miss her!” He looked up at his two friends. “They are all I have,” he said. “My boys are my life.”

 

“Then do what’s best for them Ben,” said Paul, sitting down beside his friend. “Let them go for a while … it’s for the best. You know that.”

 

Ben nodded. “I’ll think about it,” he said heavily. “I’ll think about it.”

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

Adam walked down the stairs slowly and stood looking at his father as he sat hunched in front of the fireplace staring into the flames. Ben looked up. “The boys in bed?” he asked.

 

“Yes,” said Adam. “But Joe says he’s not going to sleep until you come up and see him,” he added.

 

Ben nodded and then turned to stare into the fire again. “In a minute,” he said in a dull voice.

 

Adam walked over and sat down next to the man. “I heard what they said,” he said softly. “I couldn’t help hearing.” Ben nodded and said nothing. “You’re not really going to let them go are you Pa?” asked Adam.

 

There was silence for a few minutes before Ben spoke. “I don’t know,” he said in the same dull tone.

 

“Pa you can’t,” protested his son. “They’ll be upset. You know that they will.” He tried to force a grin on his face. “You know what Little Joe will say … he’ll kick anyone you try to make him stay with.”

 

Ben gave a small smile and then looked serious again. “Maybe it’s for the best,” he said, half to himself. “They need more than I can give them at the moment and Hop Sing is so busy …” His voice trailed away.

 

Adam drew a deep breath. “Well what about me?” he said. “I looked after them before and I can do it again if you feel you’re not up to it at the moment Pa. You know that I can.”

 

Ben smiled at his son and put a hand on his arm. “I know you can Adam, but you’ll be leaving soon. Besides, I shouldn’t rely on you in that way. I’ve done it for too long already.”

 

“I don’t mind,” said Adam sincerely. He hesitated before adding. “And as for college, well there’s always next year.”

 

Ben turned to face him. “You’ve put it off long for long enough,” he said. “You’re going.”

 

“But Pa …”

 

Ben put up a hand. “You’re going Adam and that’s all there is to it. I’ll not hear another word on the subject.” He narrowed his eyes as he lost himself in thought. “Maybe it’ll be for the best,” he said again softly. “I owe them the best.”  He turned to face the fire again and was silent.

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

Ben looked around the table with a worried expression and then caught Adam’s eye before speaking. “Well that was a good supper boys, wasn’t it?” he said, trying to sound jovial.

 

Hoss nodded and patted his stomach. “Sure was Pa,” he said. He leant forward with a worried look. “Hop Sing cooked that one eh?” he said in a conspiratorial tone.

 

Ben nodded. “Yes son,” he said, glancing over his shoulder to see if the cook was indeed in the kitchen. “It’s all right. You can say that you liked it.” He drew a deep breath. “Well ….” Hoss and Little Joe looked at him expectantly, while Adam lowered his head and stared at the table. “Well …” said Ben again, not sure how to start what he needed to say. “There’s something I’d like to talk about boys.”

 

Little Joe shook his head, an anxious look immediately on his face. “I neva done it,” he said defensively.

 

Ben gave him a puzzled look. “You never did what?” he asked.

 

Joe shrugged. “Whatever it is you wanna talk to us about,” he said, “I neva done nothing!”

 

Ben stared at his son for a moment before continuing. “No one did anything,” he said. “What I want to talk to you about is …” He hesitated again. “Well …. It concerns both you and Hoss, Little Joe.” He glanced at Adam again, who continued to stare at the table, his jaw clenched. “I’ve been thinking that it might be a good idea for both of you to … to stay with the Parkins family for a while,” Ben said in a rush, trying not to look at the expressions of concern that came over both boys’ face instantly. “Just until … just until I’m ….”

 

Little Joe jumped off his chair and ran around to his father, putting his hands on Ben’s lap and gazing up at him with an anxious expression. “Don’t ya love us no more Pa?” he asked.

 

Ben jerked. He bent down, picked up his small son and placed him on his lap before replying. “Of course I love you,” he said quickly. “I love both of you … all of you,” he added, looking across at Adam.

 

“Then why do ya wanna send us away?” asked Joe, his bottom lip beginning to quiver. “You said we ain’t done nuthin wrong!”

 

“No, you haven’t done anything wrong,” admitted his father.

 

“Then why?” asked Hoss.

 

“Because I just don’t seem to be able to look after you as well as I should at the moment,” replied Ben. “In a little while I will again.”

 

“You look after us jest fine Pa,” declared Hoss.

 

“Jest fine,” echoed Little Joe. He sat up straighter on his father’s lap. “Sides,” he added. “Adam can look after us iffen you can’t Pa.” He gave Adam a confident look, but his older brother didn’t meet his eyes.

 

“Normally he could,” said Ben. “But Adam is going away soon …. remember?”

 

“Then we can look after ourselves,” declared Hoss confidently. “Its OK Pa … we won’t be no trouble.”

 

“No trouble,” echoed Little Joe.

 

Ben hesitated. “Boys, it isn’t that simple,” he said. “Besides, it isn’t for all the time. I thought that you could just stay with the Parkins’ during the week while you’re at school Hoss and come home on the weekends.” He tried to smile at both of them. “That will be all right, won’t it?”

 

They both shook their heads and Little Joe hugged his father around the neck. “Don’t send us away Pa!” he begged as he began to cry. “We won’t be no trouble. Please!”

 

Ben’s heart began to ache. “Boys, I don’t want to …..” he began.

 

“Then don’t,” said Adam, raising his head and speaking for the first time.

 

There was silence around the table. Ben looked at Adam who gave him a baleful look in return, he looked at Hoss who was biting his bottom lip anxiously and looked as if he were about to cry, and then he looked at Little Joe who was still clinging onto his neck and crying. “It’s for the best,” Ben said lamely. There was silence again, only interrupted by Little Joe’s sobbing. “All right,” Ben said finally. “I can’t do it. I’m not sending you. We’ll work it out somehow.”

 

“Thanks Pa,” said Hoss, breathing a sigh of relief.

 

“Thanks Pa,” echoed Little Joe, planting a wet kiss on his father’s neck.

 

“It’ll be OK,” Adam assured his father.

 

Ben gave them all a smile. “Of course,” he said.

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

“So you see Roy, I’ve changed my mind,” said Ben. “Or at least the boys changed it for me. I know that you mean well … everyone does … but I can’t let them go. We’ll work it out somehow.”

 

Roy fingered his chin thoughtfully. “I’m afraid it ain’t as simple as all that,” he said. “Seems like some of the folks round town are pretty riled up bout your boys Ben. Some of em approached Judge Whitaker and there’s gonna be an inquest.”

 

Ben straightened up in his chair. “What do you mean … an inquest?” he said angrily. “Inquest about what?”

 

“Your boys,” said Roy. “I’m sorry Ben, but you ain’t got no choice in the matter. Sorry as I am ta say it, some folks have complained to the county and Judge Whitaker is gonna look into the matter. Seems they are demanding that the boys be taken from you for a while …. Just until you’re on top of things again,” he added quickly.

 

“What?!” thundered Ben. “What right have they got? How dare they! We’ll just see about this!” He stood up. “I’m going to see Judge Whitaker myself and have this out with him!”

 

“Ben don’t get riled up,” said Roy, but stopped as he realised that he was talking to an empty room. He walked over and shut the door that was still swinging on its hinges and sighed.

 

Ben stalked into Judge Whitaker’s office and thumped on the inner door. “Fred!” he shouted. “Are you in there?”

 

The door opened to reveal a short, rotund man with thinning hair. “Ben,” said the judge. “I’m glad you’re here. I was coming out to see you this afternoon. We need to talk.”

 

“We do indeed!” declared Ben, striding into the room. “What’s all this I hear from Roy about an inquest? This can’t be true!”

 

“I’m afraid it is,” said the judge mildly. “I’m sorry Ben, but I have no choice but to look into the matter. When I have a complaint I have no choice but to act on it. Please sit down and we can talk.”

 

Ben ignored the invitation. “I am not parting with my boys!” he declared angrily. “No one has the right to take them from me!” He glared at the other man, daring him say differently.

 

“No one is going to take your boys from you Ben,” said the judge. “It’s just that I’m bound by law to look into how they’re being cared for at the moment. You must understand.”

 

“I understand nothing!” shouted Ben. “I’m going to fight this every step of the way!”

 

“Ben … you yourself told Paul Martin and Roy Coffee that you didn’t know what was for the best. Why … you even agreed to let them stay with the Parkins’. I thought that it was all settled.”

 

“I changed my mind,” said Ben in a calmer tone. “They need to be with me now that Marie is dead.”

 

“I agree,” replied the judge.

 

Ben gave him a startled look. “You do?” he said. “Then why all this business about an inquest, for heavens sake?”

 

The judge shrugged his shoulders. “I told you … it’s my job. Now I can’t promise you how things will go Ben, but I can say that given all the information that I’ve heard from people already there’s no reason why the boys shouldn’t stay with you.”

 

Ben sat down and gave a sigh of relief. “I’m sorry Fred,” he said. “It’s just …” He sighed heavily. “I’m sorry,” he said again.

 

Fred Whitaker sat down next to him. “Ben I can’t promise you anything,” he said. “But I can promise that after hearing what everyone has to say then I’ll make the best decision for your boys that I can. Everyone just wants what’s best for them and for you.”

 

“I know,” said Ben. “Folks are only showing their concern for us all …. It’s just that I resent being told how to manage my own family.”

 

“I know,” said the judge. “But sometimes in life we can’t always do for ourselves. It’s at those times that we need to lean on the strength of others. Now why don’t you go and talk to Hiram Wood your attorney and see if you can set up a list of people to speak on your behalf. I’ll hear from anyone that you want me to.”

 

Ben nodded. “Yes,” he said. “I’m sure that Paul and Roy will support me.”

 

“And there’ll be others too,” said the judge. “The folks who know what a good father you are will vouch for you Ben, and those who want to say the opposite … well just remember that they’re doing what they think is for the best. It isn’t you they’re talking against … it’s for your boys.”

 

Ben nodded. “Yes,” he said, trying to sound more positive. “I’ll go and see Hiram now. Thank you Fred.” But in spite of his words, he left the judge’s office with a heavy heart.

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

 

“Roy Coffee has agreed to speak on my behalf,” said Ben that evening as he and Adam sat next to the fireplace. “And Hiram is sounding out a few more people.”

 

“What about Doctor Martin?” asked Adam. “Surely he will?”

 

“Of course,” replied his father. “Only as a doctor he has a responsibility to give his opinion about the incident with Joe’s elbow. Hiram seems to feel that that particular incident is vital.” He sighed. “It seems to be the sticking point with most of those who are speaking against me at any rate.”

 

“Pa, they’re not speaking against you,” said Adam. “You said that Judge Whitaker mentioned that they only have our family’s well being in mind.”

 

Ben nodded. “Yes,” he said. “But I can’t help but feel that way Adam. After all I’ve done around here for other folks …”

 

“Which is precisely the reason they are trying to look out for you now,” replied Adam earnestly. “You’ve said so yourself.”

 

Ben nodded again and sighed. “I know,” he said. “This just isn’t straightforward I guess. At least I can be grateful that Fred is going to make this as easy as possible.  He’s making this a closed hearing and only those directly involved will be allowed in. I’m grateful for that.”

 

“Are you going to tell Hoss and Little Joe?” asked Adam.

 

“No. There’s no need for them to get upset,” said his father. “If the ruling goes against me tomorrow, then there’ll be time to tell them then. Besides, it isn’t as if they won’t be close by,” he added. “They’ll just be with a family close by for a while. I have to try and see the good side of things.” He stared into the fire. “We all will,” he said softly.

 

Adam put his hand on his father’s shoulder. “It’ll all work out OK Pa,” he said. “You’ll see.”

 

Up at the top of the staircase, Little Joe glared at Hoss and pouted. “I’m gonna kick em!” he said in a loud whisper. “I’m gonna kick anyone who tries to take us from our Pa!”

 

Hoss put his hand over his little brother’s mouth. “Shh!” he whispered back. “They’ll hear us Joe!” He pulled his little brother into his bedroom and shut the door. The two brothers looked at each other anxiously. “I reckon we gotta do something Joe,” Hoss said finally. “But I ain’t sure what.”

 

Little Joe thought for a moment. “We can’t let em take us away Hoss,” he said, sounding as if he was about to burst into tears. “I reckon we should run away afore they do!”

 

Hoss shook his head. “What’s the point in that?” he asked. “We’ll only upset Pa and they’ll find us and take us away anyways.” He scratched his head. “No … we gotta think of something else.”

 

“I know!” said Joe suddenly, his eyes lighting up. “Let’s tell Pa to take us into town with him tomorrow and we’ll tell that judge that we don’t wanna go away with another family. The judge might listen to us!”

 

Hoss thought for a moment. “Won’t work Joe,” he said sadly. “You heard Pa. He ain’t gonna tell us bout this until it’s all over, let alone take us in there with him.”

 

“But he’s gotta Hoss,” said Joe desperately. “Otherwise how’s that judge gonna know what we think? No one asked us what we think and that ain’t fair!” he declared.

 

Hoss looked at his little brother. “You’re right there Joe,” he said. “But I still reckon that Pa ain’t gonna let us go.”

 

“Well then we won’t tell him,” said Joe. “Let’s wait till he’s gone and then we can follow him in. Iffen we go in and see that judge then it’ll be too late fer him to stop us.”

 

“How are we gonna get there?” asked Hoss. “I can ride in sure enuff, but you ain’t big enuff to ride by yourself yet Joe.”

 

Joe put on his stubborn look. “I am,” he said. “Only Pa don’t know that yet. Iffen he’d done give me a pony like I wanted stead of me having to wait until I’m bigger …” His eyes brightened up again. “I know,” he said. “You can ride and I can sit behind and hold on the back of you Hoss. I’ve done that plenty of time with Adam when he rides Sport.”

 

Hoss thought again. “Yeah,” he said. “That might work. OK … I’ll pretend that I’m going to school as usual in the morning and then I’ll hide and come back for you when Pa and Adam leave. Hop Sing won’t know you’re gone until after and then it’ll be too late fer him to stop us.”

 

“Yeah,” said Joe with a grin. His grin suddenly turned to a frown. “Hey Hoss? Do ya reckon that the judge is gonna be scary with big whiskers? I ain’t never seen a judge before.”

 

“I don’t rightly know Joe,” admitted Hoss. “I ain’t never seen one neither. But we gotta do it no matter how scary he is. We jest gotta stay with Pa no matter what.”

 

“Yeah,” agreed Joe. “No matter what.”

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

Ben sat stony-faced staring at the wall in front of him, while he listened to yet another woman speak about how he was neglecting his two youngest sons. He knew that they had the best intentions, yet he found it extremely difficult to sit and listen to how they considered he was being a neglectful father. Thank goodness for those who had spoken up earlier and said the opposite.

 

The biggest sticking point seemed to be Little Joe’s hurt elbow as Hiram had prophesised it would be. Paul Martin had tried his best for Ben, but as a doctor he had been bound to state how the elbow had been dislocated and describe Ben’s actions that had caused it. That had not gone down well with the judge as Ben could tell from his expression.

 

Adam sat beside his father, silently willing the judge to see reason through all of this. It was so obvious to him that his two brothers needed their family around them at the moment, but he wasn’t so sure that Judge Whitaker would agree. The way some of those women were describing the situation, anyone would have thought that his father was a terrible parent, whereas Adam knew it to be quite the opposite. While it was true that Ben had not quite been the man he usually was these past months, Adam knew more than anyone just what his father was capable of. He had had to step in and take over a lot of things lately, but he knew that the situation was only temporary. He fidgeted in his seat, wishing that he could jump up and say so to all these interfering busybodies around him. Hiram had made it clear that he would have his chance to speak and he needed to be patient until it was his turn, but he was finding it increasingly difficult to be so.

 

Adam started as he heard his name called out. “Adam Cartwright.” He felt his father’s hand on his arm and smiled at him before standing up and walking to the front of the room.

 

Judge Whitaker took off his glasses and looked at Adam. “Have a seat young man,” he said. “Now tell me what your feelings are about this situation.

 

Adam sat down and faced the judge. “Well …” he began. “First of all I want to say that this whole thing is ridiculous. My Pa is very capable of looking after my two brothers at the moment. Just because certain people think he’s not … well, they don’t live with him and they don’t know. He’s a wonderful father to us all …” He glanced at his father. “He always has been. He’d do anything for Hoss or Joe or myself. None of us could have a better father.”

 

The judge nodded thoughtfully. “I see,” he said. “Your sentiments are commendable young man. So you’re telling me that you don’t think your brothers have been neglected by your father lately?”

 

Adam hesitated and then shook his head. “No sir,” he said. “Not … not in any way that could harm them. He’s been grieving for my stepmother since she died and I think that’s very understandable, but he has always made sure that the boys were looked after. Whenever he couldn’t do it the way he wanted to, then he knew that myself or Hop Sing was there to help.”

 

“Hop Sing?”

 

“Our housekeeper.”

 

“I see. But ..” The judge referred to his notes. “I see that you are due to leave for back East in a few weeks to attend college?”

 

Adam licked his lips. “Yes,” he admitted.

 

“And do you think that this … Hop Sing … will be able to cope without you there? If your father isn’t managing as well as he’d like to I mean?”

 

“Yes sir, I do,” replied Adam confidently.

 

“Hmm … well thank you Adam,” said the judge. “That will be all.”

 

“I have something else to say,” said Adam, not budging from his chair. He waited until the judge nodded and then continued. “Even if Pa had no one to help him, then he would still cope with the boys,” he said. “He is much better now than he was a few months ago. He is interested in them and what they do … and he would always make sure that they were happy and safe. I don’t understand why all this is happening.”

 

The judge took off his glasses again and stared at Adam for a moment. “Were you there when your little brother’s elbow was dislocated?” he asked.

 

Adam swallowed. “No sir,” he said.

 

“And you are aware how it happened?” the judge asked. “Your father pulled on the little boy’s arm with such force that he dislocated it?”

 

“But …” Adam stopped as the door was opened and his two brothers entered the room. Hoss was holding Little Joe’s hand and they both looked terrified, but they didn’t hesitate as they walked across the room towards the judge.

 

“And just who do we have here?” asked the judge.

 

“Eric! Joseph!” said Ben. “What on earth are you two doing here?”

 

Hoss gave his father an apologetic look. “We hadta come Pa,” he said. “We got things we need ta say to the judge.”

 

“Yeah,” agreed Little Joe, standing close to his brother’s side as he looked around at the roomful of people. He turned to the judge. “We gotta tell you not to make us go away from our Pa,” he stated.

 

The judge nodded. “I see.”

 

Hoss took a step forward. “And what you was saying bout Joe’s arm a minute ago … well that ain’t right sir.”

 

Judge Whitaker looked confused, as did Ben and all the others in the room. “Not right?” the judge asked. “How so, young man?”

 

“Pa neva done it,” admitted Hoss. “I did.”

 

Ben stood up. “What are you talking about Hoss?” he asked.

 

“It’s true Pa,” said Hoss, looking at the floor. “I hurt Joe’s arm when we was roughhousing, but we didn’t tell you cause we thought that we’d be in trouble for it.”

 

Ben turned to Little Joe. “Joseph, why didn’t you tell me that day in town?” he asked. “You heard me talking to the doctor about it.”

 

Little Joe shook his head. “No, I neva,” he said. “I was hurting too much Pa. I neva heard you say nothing cause I was crying.” Ben nodded as he remembered the day all too well … his little boy had been in a great deal of pain and obviously hadn’t heard anything while he had been lying on the examining table. Up until now, both Hoss and Little Joe had been totally unaware that his injury had been blamed on his father.

 

Hoss took another step forward, dragging Little Joe with him. “Please don’t take us away from our Pa,” he said. “We won’t be no trouble to him. He’s the best Pa there is in the whole world and we wanna stay with him.”

 

“Stay with him,” echoed Little Joe, his eyes wide as gave the judge an entreating look.

 

The judge hesitated, as he looked first at the two boys and then up at Ben. “I had actually already made my decision to let them stay with you before these two appeared,” he said. “And in light of the fact that you seem to be blameless of injuring your son Ben, I am very satisfied that you are capable of looking after them.” He looked around the room. “I know that many of you have been acting in what you feel are the best interests of these boys, but I feel that their place is with their father at this time. From all I’ve heard, he is more than capable of looking after them. That is all.”

 

Ben stepped forward, his eyes misting over with tears. “Thank you Fred,” he said simply as he drew both his younger sons towards him. “Thank you.” Adam came up and walked over to stand next to his father as Ben bent down and picked up Little Joe before turning towards the door.

 

Little Joe hugged his father around the neck happily and loudly whispered into his ear in a voice that could be heard around the room. “That judge ain’t so scary after all Pa. He don’t have big whiskers or nothing!”

 

Ben patted him on the back and Hoss looked up at his father anxiously. “Are ya gonna give us a tanning for doing roughhousing Pa?” he asked. “I didn’t mean ta hurt Joe’s arm. Sides, it’s all better now.”

 

“All better now,” echoed Little Joe, showing his father how he could move it.

 

Ben smiled and ruffled Hoss’ sandy hair. “No son,” he said. “I’m not going to give you a tanning … this time,” he added. Hoss immediately looked relieved.

 

“Ben?” Sarah Parkins stepped forward, surrounded by several of the other women who had spoken up that morning. Ben stopped and looked at them. “I’m sorry,” she said. “We’re all sorry. We thought we were acting for the best …. for you and your boys.” She looked at Little Joe in his father’s arms fondly as the child scowled back at her. “It’s obvious that you need to be with your boys … and they need to be with you,” she said. “I realise that now.”

 

“Thank you,” said Ben.

 

“No hard feelings?” she asked anxiously.

 

“No hard feelings,” he replied.

 

“I’m gonna kick you iffen you try to take us away from our Pa!” declared Little Joe fiercely.

 

“That will do!” said his father sternly. “Stop that talk immediately or you will get a tanning young man!” Little Joe shut his mouth instantly and put his head down on his father’s shoulder, looking away from the women. “I’m sorry,” said Ben apologetically.

 

“He loves you dearly Ben,” said Sarah. “They all do … anyone can see that.” She touched him on the arm gently. “The offer still stands,” she said. “If ever you need a break, you only need to say. I’m happy to take Little Joe for a day or even a few hours for you.” Several of the other women nodded their heads and offered their support as well. “And you can guarantee that we’ll still do some cooking for you,” said Sarah.

 

Ben tried to look grateful. “Thank you,” he said. “But you shouldn’t go to that bother.”

 

“No bother at all,” said the woman happily. “We’re pleased to be able to help. You tell Hop Sing that he can expect some dishes from several of us soon.”

 

“But Pa …” began Hoss and pulled on his father’s sleeve. “Hop Sing don’t …”

 

“Shh,” said Ben quickly. “Thank you ladies,” he said. “Come along boys.” He led Adam and Hoss from the room while Little Joe glared over his shoulder at the women behind them.

 

 

 

^^^^^^^^^^

 

“Told ya that Hop Sing would still be mad iffen we got some of them ladies’ cooking,” said Hoss as the cook flounced from the room again back to the kitchen.

 

“Shh,” said his father.

 

“Pa couldn’t very well tell all those women that he didn’t want their food,” whispered Adam. “Even if it does make Hop Sing upset.”

 

“I like it!” declared Little Joe happily as he munched on a pork chop. “Them ladies cook good food,” he added oblivious to the expression on Hop Sing’s face as he re-entered the room and heard him. “How come you don’t cook us no pork chops like these ones Hop Sing?” he wondered aloud.

 

Ben gave Hop Sing an apologetic look as the cook slammed another plate down on the table. “Yum!” said Joe through his pork chop. “I like them little cakes for dessert!” Hop Sing snorted and left the room in a huff.

 

“Little Joe, I’ve told you before not to say how much you like the ladies’ cooking in front of Hop Sing, haven’t I?” Ben reminded his son gently. “You have to have some tact.”

 

Joe looked confused. “I ain’t got no tacks,” he said. “You want me to get you some from the barn?”

 

“No son,” sighed his father. “Not that kind of tacks .. I mean tact. Just eat up your supper.”

 

 

The End