{"id":11356,"date":"2014-05-01T17:23:52","date_gmt":"2014-05-01T21:23:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=11356"},"modified":"2026-01-20T15:56:55","modified_gmt":"2026-01-20T20:56:55","slug":"adonis-in-the-wilderness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=11356","title":{"rendered":"Adonis in the Wilderness (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>: <\/strong> One of Adam\u2019s retired professors visits the Ponderosa for a vacation; involving the entire family in his latest art project.\u00a0 Is Virginia City ready for the newest Adonis?<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T \u00a0\u00a0WC 10,100
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adonis in the Wilderness<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam leant against the pole of the stage office as he watched the stage pull in. He waited until the dust had settled before straightening up and looking eagerly at the passengers as they dismounted. The last one to get out was a grey-haired man with a neatly trimmed beard, dressed in fashionable clothing. He straightened up his suit, looked around and smiled at Adam before walking towards him. \u201cAdam Cartwright,\u201d he said warmly as he shook his hand. \u201cI\u2019d have known you anywhere. Even in \u2026\u201d He looked Adam up and down. \u201c \u2026 your western garb.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook the other man\u2019s hand enthusiastically. \u201cQuite a bit different from what I used to wear all those years ago at college isn\u2019t it Professor?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease call me George,\u201d said the Professor. \u201cAfter all these years and all our correspondence I think you\u2019re entitled to. And yes, you do look different \u2026 but it suits you young man.\u201d He looked around the town. \u201cSo this is the West you talk to me so much about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is it,\u201d said Adam. \u201cHere \u2026 I\u2019ll get your luggage for you. Which one is yours?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThese two bags and that long one there,\u201d said George. \u201cI\u2019m sorry that there\u2019s quite a bit, but the long one has my art supplies in it. I was hoping to be able to do some painting while I\u2019m here. After your description of the scenery around these parts I\u2019m quite looking forward to it. Your descriptions have led me to believe that it\u2019s quite spectacular.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is indeed,\u201d replied Adam as he led the way to the Cartwright buggy. \u201cI\u2019m sure you\u2019ll like it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They got into the buggy and Adam took the reins. As they headed down the street, George sat back on the seat and sighed. \u201cIt\u2019s so good to finally be here,\u201d he said wearily. \u201cIt\u2019s an awfully long way from Boston Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t need to remind me,\u201d said Adam. \u201cI love my home out here of course, but there are times when it just feels so isolated. I miss the culture and activity of back East at times. I\u2019m looking forward to catching up on all the news.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell I don\u2019t know if I have much news so to speak,\u201d said George. \u201cSince I retired from the university last year I\u2019ve been leading a quiet life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell you\u2019re looking good,\u201d said Adam, giving the man an appraising glance. \u201cRetirement must agree with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill, I\u2019m a bit different from that old art professor who taught you all those years ago aren\u2019t I?\u201d said George. \u201cA bit greyer for a start.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell maybe a bit,\u201d admitted Adam. \u201cAnd you were never old George. You used to get around quite well.\u201d He grinned as he remembered some of the social events in those days. \u201cI loved your drawing classes too, even though I only did a couple of semesters of drawing classes to help me with my engineering course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were a good student,\u201d said George. \u201cOh!\u201d He stared in wonder at the scene before them as they rounded a bend in the trail. He appraised the blue serene lake spread out before them with an artist\u2019s eye, noting the different shadows as the clouds passed across the sky above and the impossibly tall straight pines that encircled the blueness of the lake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike it?\u201d grinned Adam, drawing the horses to a halt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike it!\u201d breathed George, still staring at the scene. \u201cI don\u2019t need to tell you it\u2019s magnificent! I\u2019m really going to have to paint this!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell there\u2019s plenty more views like this,\u201d said Adam, hitching the horses up again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf that\u2019s the case, then I\u2019m going to be very busy,\u201d said George. \u201cYou certainly didn\u2019t exaggerate Adam. This is beautiful countryside.\u201d He spent the rest of the journey to the ranch enthusing over the different views they passed and reminiscing with Adam about the times they knew each other in Boston.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa is looking forward to talking with you about Boston,\u201d said Adam. \u201cHe has many fond memories of living there years ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh yes. I remember you telling me that you were actually born there,\u201d said George as they rounded the bend that led them to the side of the barn and towards the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was,\u201d replied Adam. \u201cMy mother\u2019s family came from there. When I was at college I lived with my grandfather. Ah \u2026 here\u2019s Pa now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright came forward with a large smile on his face and held out his hand to George as he got down form the buggy. \u201cProfessor Hickson,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m so pleased to meet you. Adam has told me so much about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease call me George,\u201d said the man as he shook Ben\u2019s hand. \u201cAnd the pleasure is all mine sir. Thank you so much for inviting me to stay.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCall me Ben,\u201d said Ben. \u201cAdam has fond memories of you in Boston George so when he told me that you\u2019d retired from teaching and suggested inviting you for a visit I was more than happy to agree. I hope you\u2019ll enjoy your time here with us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure that I will,\u201d said George. \u201cAdam has shown me some wonderful scenery on the way here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGeorge is hoping to do some painting while he\u2019s here,\u201d explained Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell that\u2019s fine,\u201d said Ben enthusiastically. \u201cFrom what Adam tells me, you\u2019re quite an artist.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d said George. \u201cI do enjoy my artwork and now that I\u2019m retired I have more time to indulge myself. I\u2019m always looking for a good subject and the scenery around here is perfect. I\u2019m sure that I\u2019ll go home with quite a few canvases done.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease come in,\u201d said Ben as he and Adam picked up George\u2019s bags. \u201cYou can have a rest before supper. The boys will be home later and you can meet them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh yes,\u201d said George as he followed Ben and Adam into the house. \u201cHoss, is it? And Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d said Adam. \u201cYou\u2019ve got a good memory.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell you certainly talked about them enough all those years ago,\u201d said George as they entered the house. \u201cAdam was considerably homesick for a while there you know Ben.\u201d He looked around in awe. \u201cBeautiful,\u201d he breathed. \u201cWhat a magnificent room.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d said Ben. \u201cNow, Adam will show you upstairs and you can rest. I\u2019m looking forward to talking later at supper about Boston if you\u2019d indulge me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will indeed,\u201d said George as he made to follow Adam. \u201cOne of my favourite topics.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is my brother Hoss,\u201d said Adam as the big man walked into the room. \u201cHoss, meet Professor George Hickson.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPleased ta meet ya Professor,\u201d said Hoss, giving the man a shy smile as he took off his hat. \u201cAdam speaks real well of ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPleased to meet you Hoss,\u201d replied the Professor, shaking Hoss\u2019 hand. \u201cHe always did of you as well. Let me see if I can remember \u2026. You\u2019re the one who loves animals and is an expert on the land around here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked pleased at the description. \u201cWell I don\u2019t know if I\u2019m an expert,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I sure love this land and I try ta know as much as I can about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d love to learn from you then,\u201d replied George. \u201cLandscapes are one of my passions and I was hoping to do some painting while I\u2019m here. Perhaps you could point me in the direction of some of the best spots?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBe pleased ta Professor,\u201d said Hoss, beaming at him. \u201cAnd there sure are some mighty fine spots round here which ya can paint.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds fine,\u201d said Ben, slapping Hoss on the back. \u201cNow let\u2019s get to supper before Hop Sing\u2019s food is ruined.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe not making it home tonight?\u201d asked Hoss as they all slid into their seats around the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s coming back from Carson City,\u201d explained Ben as he began to dish out the meat. \u201cHe could be a bit late.\u201d He hesitated and listened for a moment. \u201cAh! That sounds like him now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At his words, the front door opened and Joe entered the room. He flung down his saddlebags and took off his hat and coat, talking all the while. \u201cHi everyone,\u201d he said. \u201cI just made it in time. That bank draft went through fine Pa.\u201d He smoothed down his hair, took off his gun-belt and continued. \u201cYou should have seen all the people in Carson today. I reckon there was \u2026.\u201d He stopped as he noticed George sitting at the table with the others, staring at him. \u201cSorry,\u201d he said, approaching the table and holding out his hand. \u201cI forgot we were havin company tonight. I\u2019m Joe. You must be that Professor fella of Adam\u2019s?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George shook the young man\u2019s hand, staring at him in delight as he did so. \u201cI am indeed,\u201d he replied. \u201cProfessor George Hickson. Pleased to meet you Joe.\u201d He continued to stare at the young man as Joe slid into his seat and began to serve himself with vegetables.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo,\u201d said Joe, with a grin at Adam. \u201cCan you tell us lots of stories bout when Adam was at college? Lots of things he got up to?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam narrowed his eyes at his youngest brother. \u201cGeorge has been well warned not to say anything that you can use against me at a later date,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ve told him all about you and your ways.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his green eyes widely, pretending to be shocked. \u201cMy ways? I\u2019m not sure what you mean by that older brother, but it sure sounds insulting.\u201d He grinned at Adam and then at George, who was still staring at him. As he noticed the man\u2019s eyes upon him, Joe\u2019s grin vanished and he looked away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George roused himself and reluctantly took his gaze away from Joe to concentrate on his meal. He\u2019d been struck the moment the young man had walked into the room by his amazing physical beauty and he couldn\u2019t help but think immediately what a wonderful subject Joe would make for a portrait. His facial bone structure was amazing with those high cheekbones and strong chin. His eyes were lustrous and his mouth was full and sensuous. The only small flaw that George could see was that his ears were slightly too large for his head, but that could easily be adjusted in a painting with a bit of poetic licence. His lustrous curly chestnut hair framed his face perfectly and his physique was amazing. Long slim legs and a small waist, broadening out to muscular shoulders and a firm torso. It was all that George could do not to continue staring at this perfect artistic specimen and he found his eyes travelling back to him in spite of himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019re the brother who\u2019s an expert with horses?\u201d he said, for want of something better to say. He was delighted to see Joe\u2019s eyes light up immediately and he stared at him, watching the light sparkle in them. He knew without a doubt that he would just have to paint this young man!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI like working with horses,\u201d Joe replied as he ate. \u201cMost of em are kinda dumb, but I like training them.\u201d He looked away from the Professor, wishing that the man would stop staring at him so much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d said George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll the boys work with the horses,\u201d said Ben. \u201cPerhaps you could show George while he\u2019s here how it\u2019s done boys?\u201d He looked from George to Joe and then back to George again, wondering what was going on. George seemed to not be able to take his eyes off the boy and Joe was obviously uncomfortable with being scrutinised in such an obvious way. \u201cMore brandy George?\u201d he asked, trying to divert the man\u2019s attention from Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d replied George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched carefully during the rest of the meal while the conversation progressed. Try and they both did to hide it, George was obviously fascinated with Joe and was obviously embarrassed by George. He sincerely hoped that there was nothing to worry about between the two of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As soon as the meal was over, Joe stood up to leave the table. \u201cWell I\u2019m turning in for an early night,\u201d he said, which was uncharacteristic of him. \u201cI\u2019ll see everyone in the morning. Goodnight everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as George\u2019s eyes followed Joe as he walked up the stairs and he was relieved when Adam spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow about taking our brandy out onto the front porch?\u201d suggested Adam. \u201cIt\u2019s mighty pretty out there at night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George picked up his glass. \u201cDon\u2019t mind if I do,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019d like to sample some of that fresh country night air you used to tell me about Adam. Coming Ben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u201cNo. You two go on and catch up. I\u2019ll just go and check on Joe then I have some paper work to finish off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019m gonna check on them poultices I put on my horse\u2019s leg this afternoon,\u201d said Hoss, getting up as well. \u201cI guess I\u2019ll say goodnight fer now Professor and I\u2019ll see ya in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGoodnight Hoss,\u201d said George as he followed Adam out onto the porch. They seated themselves on a couple of the wooden benches there and leant back against the wall of the house. George bent his head back and looked up at the myriad of stars in the black sky and sniffed the air appreciatively. \u201cPine,\u201d he said softly. \u201cA beautiful smell. This place is every bit as beautiful as you led me to believe Adam. I think I\u2019m going to have a wonderful vacation.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad,\u201d replied Adam as he sipped his brandy. \u201cWe\u2019re all happy to have you here. Pa and my both my brothers as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George leant forward in his chair. \u201cSpeaking of your brothers,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m sorry about that earlier.\u201d He sipped on his brandy before adding in response to Adam\u2019s puzzled look. \u201cJoe,\u201d he explained. \u201cI think I made him quite uncomfortable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about Joe,\u201d said Adam with a grin. \u201cHe\u2019ll get over it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George looked back up at the sky. \u201cIt\u2019s just that I was so taken with him,\u201d he explained. \u201cHe\u2019s a very handsome young man Adam. I\u2019d go so far as to say that he\u2019s just about as perfect a physical specimen as I\u2019ve ever seen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam chuckled. \u201cWell don\u2019t let him hear you say that,\u201d he said. \u201cWe have a hard enough time keeping him under control as it is.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George was thoughtful for a moment before replying. \u201cI\u2019m deadly serious,\u201d he said. \u201cHe has the face of an angel and that body \u2026. A fine physical specimen indeed.\u201d He looked directly at Adam. \u201cDo you think he\u2019d pose for me? I\u2019d love to paint him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u201cI really don\u2019t know,\u201d he said. \u201cYou could ask him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George nodded. \u201cI will,\u201d he said. \u201cHe\u2019d make a wonderful subject for a painting. I can just see it now \u2026\u201d His eyes lit up. \u201cI could make it a study of a man in his natural environment. I wonder if \u2026 do you think that Hoss would help me out as well? I\u2019d love to paint Joe as a typical young man amongst the flora native to this part of the country. Hoss could perhaps point me in the direction of some indigenous plants of the area.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKnowing my brother Hoss, he\u2019ll probably offer to collect them for you,\u201d replied Adam. \u201cA word of warning though George. If you intend to paint Joe, then be prepared to be firm with him. That brother of mine is a restless character and I don\u2019t know that he\u2019d have the discipline to sit still for the long periods of time that you\u2019d need him to.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make sure he understands what\u2019s expected of him,\u201d replied George, his eyes still shining as he planned his artwork in his head. \u201cThis will be wonderful. If Joe agrees, I can paint landscapes during the day and work on his portrait at night.\u201d He sighed with satisfaction. \u201cYes, I think I\u2019m going to really enjoy this vacation Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood in the doorway of Adam\u2019s bedroom and cleared his throat, waiting until Adam looked up from his book and noticed him. \u201cAre you busy?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d replied Adam, closing his book. \u201cJust reading.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben came into the room, closing the room carefully behind him and sitting down on a chair. \u201cI wondered if I could ask you something I\u2019m a bit worried about son,\u201d he said. \u201cAbout George.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked puzzled. \u201cI thought you seemed to like him,\u201d he said. \u201cYou were getting on quite well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I do,\u201d replied his father. \u201cHe seems a very personable man.\u201d He cleared his throat again. \u201cI was just wondering about him, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam waited. \u201cYes?\u201d he said finally when his father didn\u2019t speak again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat forward in his chair. \u201cIs he \u2026. well \u2026 is he normal?\u201d he asked, looking somewhat embarrassed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked even more puzzled. \u201cNormal?\u201d he asked. \u201cI\u2019m not sure I know what you mean Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. \u201cIt\u2019s just that I\u2019ve noticed the way he looks at Joe. He seems to be \u2026 well \u2026 quite taken with him. I wouldn\u2019t want anything to \u2026 well \u2026. confuse Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave a short laugh. \u201cYou don\u2019t need to worry Pa,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I was a sailor for many years and I know how some men can be,\u201d said Ben. \u201cI\u2019ve seen how that sort of thing can develop and I want to make sure that Joe doesn\u2019t come under anyone\u2019s influence in that respect, if you know what I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u201cI think I do,\u201d he said. \u201cBut as I said you\u2019ve got no need to worry. George is interested in Joe as a subject for a painting, that\u2019s all. He wants to paint his portrait. That\u2019s why he was studying him tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at him blankly for a full minute. \u201cA portrait?\u201d he said finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u201cYes,\u201d he said. \u201cA portrait. He wants to ask Joe to sit for him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cleared his throat again. \u201cI see,\u201d he said, averting his eyes from Adam\u2019s gaze. \u201cWell it would appear that \u2026 it seems like I have the wrong take on things, doesn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u201cSo it would seem,\u201d he said, trying not to laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded, still not looking directly at Adam. \u201cWell,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m \u2026 well, I\u2019m glad that we cleared that up. Good night son.\u201d He got up quickly and left the room abruptly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam opened his book again, trying not to laugh as he began to read once more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning,\u201d said George as he stood in the doorway of Joe\u2019s bedroom. \u201cExcuse me for interrupting you Joe, but I was wondering if I could speak with you about something?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned from his dresser where he\u2019d been brushing his hair and tried to smile at the Professor, wishing that the man wouldn\u2019t look at him in that intense way. George was struck yet again by Joe\u2019s amazing beauty as he stood bathed in the early morning light that was streaming through the window behind him. \u201cSure,\u201d he said, uncertainly. \u201cWhat about Professor?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George took a couple of steps into the room. \u201cI was wondering if you might sit for me?\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked puzzled and then shrugged. \u201cOK,\u201d he said, sitting down on the edge of the bed and looking up at the other man. \u201cWhat for?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George chuckled. \u201cNo \u2026. That\u2019s not quite what I meant,\u201d he said. \u201cI meant would you sit for me \u2026 as in me painting your portrait?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood up again and looked at the man in astonishment. \u201cPaint my portrait?\u201d he said. \u201cHow come?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019d make a wonderful subject,\u201d explained George. \u201cI thought so the minute I met you last night actually.\u201d He hesitated. \u201cI hope I didn\u2019t make you feel too uncomfortable Joe. I didn\u2019t mean to. I was just looking at you thinking what a wonderful painting you\u2019d make. You\u2019re a very handsome young man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe preened himself up and looked pleased. \u201cWell thanks,\u201d he said, trying to sound modest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo?\u201d asked George. \u201cWill you do it? Will you let me paint you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGee I dunno,\u201d said Joe. \u201cWhat would it mean? How long would it take?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d have to make some preliminary sketches first,\u201d explained George. \u201cThen I\u2019d rough out the portrait and you\u2019d have to sit for quite a few hours at a stretch. I thought perhaps we could do it after supper each night, so in that way it might take a couple of weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked thoughtful. \u201cOK,\u201d he said. \u201cI reckon it\u2019d be fun to see myself in a real painting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBreakfast is ready,\u201d said Adam, poking his head around the doorway. \u201cAre you two coming down?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe has agreed to sit for me,\u201d said George happily as they all headed downstairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned at Adam cheekily. \u201cSeems the Professor knows the best-looking Cartwright when he sees him brother,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam winked at George. \u201cI told you,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTold him what?\u201d asked Joe curiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAbout your big head,\u201d replied Adam, grinning at his brother and tapping him on the side of his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked indignant. \u201cI have not got a big head!\u201d he declared as they reached the dining room table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked up from his breakfast. \u201cMorning everyone,\u201d he said as they all slid into their seats. He gave Joe a sideways glance. \u201cYa have got a big head shortshanks,\u201d he said through a mouthful. \u201cWhat\u2019s he on about now?\u201d he asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe professor is gonna paint my portrait,\u201d cut in Joe before Adam could say anything.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa portrait?\u201d said Hoss, looking amazed. \u201cYa don\u2019t say!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe sure is,\u201d said Joe with a satisfied air as he helped himself to some eggs. \u201cAt least someone around here realises just how handsome I am.\u201d He gave both his brothers a superior look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at Adam and Adam winked back at him. \u201cWell all I can say is that you\u2019d better make his ears a bit smaller Professor,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cYa don\u2019t want them ta spoil this portrait of yourn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe immediately put his hands up to his ears. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with my ears?\u201d he said. \u201cThey ain\u2019t too big!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u201cIf you say so,\u201d he said, grinning at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glared at both of them. \u201cYou\u2019re just jealous,\u201d he declared. \u201cBoth of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJealous about what?\u201d asked Ben as he walked into the room, coffeepot in hand. \u201cMorning everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning Ben,\u201d said George. \u201cIt seems that Joe here thinks that his brothers are jealous because I\u2019ve asked him to sit for me while I paint his portrait.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope that\u2019s all right with you,\u201d ventured George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it is,\u201d said Ben as he sat down. \u201cAs long as Joe wants to do it and it doesn\u2019t interfere with his work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll do the bulk of it at night,\u201d said George. \u201cAlthough I will have to make some preliminary sketches of you during the day if that\u2019s all right with you Joe. I\u2019d like to get some sketches done of you in different positions. I could just follow you while you\u2019re working and do them. I won\u2019t get in the way, I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe flexed his arm muscles. \u201cNo, I don\u2019t mind,\u201d he said. \u201cI can pose however you want me to. Maybe it\u2019d be better if I\u2019m not working while you do them but.\u201d He looked at his father hopefully, but Ben shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll do your work as usual young man,\u201d he said. \u201cThere\u2019ll be no slackening off for a portrait.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pulled a face. \u201cWell I was just thinking of making things easier for the professor,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah right,\u201d said Adam. \u201cYou were just thinking of making things easier for yourself more to the point. Good excuse for getting out of work eh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cActually this is going to be hard work Joe,\u201d said George. \u201cIt\u2019s not easy posing for a portrait.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see why,\u201d said Joe. \u201cAll I have to do is sit there. It can\u2019t be that hard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe professor is right Joe,\u201d said his father. \u201cIt\u2019s not an easy thing to do \u2026 and you commit to this, then you have to follow it through. There\u2019ll be no giving up halfway through young man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u201cI\u2019ll follow through,\u201d he said confidently. \u201cIt\u2019ll be easy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George gave Adam a knowing look and Adam grinned back at him before George turned to Hoss. \u201cActually Hoss, I was wondering if you would mind helping me out with this portrait as well?\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe?\u201d said Hoss, swallowing his mouthful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d said Joe, his eyes popping out. \u201cYou want Hoss to sit for you too?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell no,\u201d said George. \u201cBut I was hoping that you\u2019d be able to supply me with some native fauna of the area for the background.\u201d He looked at Hoss expectantly, but Hoss merely stared back at him with a puzzled expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlants,\u201d explained Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded as the light dawned on his face. \u201cOh,\u201d he said. \u201cYeah, sure Professor. What sort of plants?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell I\u2019d like this portrait to be a representation of the area,\u201d explained George. \u201cIf you could show me some of the landscapes around here I could include the native fauna in the background. Trees and flowers native to the area \u2026. that sort of thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh sure,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cThere\u2019s lots of pretty spots around here I can show ya. I\u2019ll even bring some of that fauna stuff home for ya to sketch if ya like.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat would be fine Hoss. Thank you,\u201d said George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell it\u2019s time for work,\u201d said Ben, standing up. \u201cCome on boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get my sketch pad,\u201d said George. \u201cWhere are you working today Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be out by the corral breaking some horses,\u201d replied Joe. \u201cThen doing some yard chores.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d said George. \u201cI\u2019ll see you there.\u201d He patted Joe on the shoulder as he passed him. \u201cThank you for agreeing to this Joe. I think you\u2019re going to make a wonderful subject.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe puffed himself up and then ducked as both Adam and Hoss walked by his chair and slapped him lightly on the side of his head. \u201cNow don\u2019t ya get too big-headed little brother,\u201d warned Hoss playfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe made a face at them both as he stood up. \u201cPa?\u201d he said, as he and Ben headed towards the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy ears ain\u2019t too big are they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tried to keep a straight face. \u201cNo, I don\u2019t think so,\u201d he said. \u201cNot at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George sat on the top rung of the fence and sketched furiously as he watched the young man on the black horse in the corral. Around him, several of the hands watched in amazement as page after page of sketches of Joe in different positions appeared under the professor\u2019s expert hand. \u201cWell lookee here,\u201d said one of them in amazement. \u201cHave ya ever seen the like of it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The professor ignored them as he watched Joe on the horse, his eyes hungrily admiring his form with his eyes as he swiftly transferred it to the paper in front of him with his fingers. As Joe pulled the horse to a halt and rode over to the group he sat proudly on the horse, trying to appear modest. \u201cSo how\u2019s it going?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got some great sketches,\u201d replied George, finishing off one of them quickly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell I\u2019m sorta finished here for now,\u201d said Joe as he dismounted. \u201cIs that OK?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCertainly,\u201d replied George getting down from the fence. \u201cI\u2019ll just get some fresh pencils and follow you to wherever you\u2019re going next.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOK,\u201d said Joe, sliding down from the horse and handing the reins to one of the hands. \u201cI\u2019ll be doing some yard chores over near the barn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey Joe,\u201d said one of the hands, nudging the man next to him. \u201cWho\u2019s a pretty boy then eh?\u201d Everyone chuckled and Joe grinned along with them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re just jealous,\u201d he said, good-naturedly. \u201cAfter all, who\u2019d wanna draw your ugly face?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw gee Joe,\u201d shouted one of the others. \u201cI\u2019m gonna look forward ta seeing your pretty face on that fancy portrait. I reckon you should put hang it in the saloon so all them gals can see ya every day!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned again. \u201cWell I might just do that,\u201d he said. \u201cKeep em from getting lonely for me when I\u2019m not there.\u201d He sauntered off towards the barn as several of the other men dispersed, chuckling as they went.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope I\u2019m not causing you to have a hard time with all of this,\u201d said George as he reappeared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNah,\u201d said Joe, grinning at him as he picked up an axe. \u201cI\u2019m used to it. We always rib each other like that round here. If they weren\u2019t picking on me fer the portrait then they\u2019d find something else ta say. I\u2019m used to it.\u201d He began to chop a piece of wood while George sat himself down on top of the woodpile next to him and began to sketch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After several minutes, George looked up. \u201cWould it be too much trouble if I asked you to take off your shirt Joe?\u201d he asked. \u201cI\u2019d love to get some sketches of those arm and torso muscles in action.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d said Joe, putting down the axe and stripping off his shirt. \u201cIs this OK?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust fine,\u201d said George admiringly as Joe began to work again. \u201cYou certainly are a fine subject Joe. This is wonderful!\u201d Joe flexed his muscles proudly as George looked on admiringly, his pencil flying across the page in front of him as he sketched the bronzed, smooth chest with its rippling muscles and the broad shoulders that narrowed in to the small waist. Joe picked up his axe and began to work again, his arms pumping furiously and the sweat beginning to pool in little droplets as it ran down his chest. George privately thought that he\u2019d never seen such a perfect specimen of the male form. It was a sight to rival even the most perfect Greek statues from centuries ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Half an hour later, Ben and Adam rode into the front yard to see Joe still hard at splitting kindling while George sketched him. \u201cWell now that\u2019s a sight to behold,\u201d said Adam as he got down from his horse. \u201cMake sure you get a good sketch of that George so that we have proof that little brother here actually does work occasionally.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stopped chopping and wiped his sweaty face on his bandanna. \u201cI\u2019ll have you know that I work hard,\u201d he replied. \u201cYou just don\u2019t bother to ever stop and watch that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTrue,\u201d acknowledged Adam with a chuckle. \u201cI\u2019m too busy working hard myself brother.\u201d He slapped George on the back. \u201cHow\u2019s it going?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWonderful,\u201d enthused George. \u201cJoe is a wonderful specimen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at Joe and frowned. \u201cJoseph get your shirt on,\u201d he said sternly. \u201cYou\u2019ll catch a chill in this wind. What on earth have you got it off for in the first place?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe reached for his shirt and put it on. \u201cI was just posing for the professor,\u201d he explained. \u201cHe wanted to see my muscles in action.\u201d He grinned at George. \u201cSeen enough professor?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George returned the smile. \u201cYes,\u201d he said. \u201cThank you Joe. I\u2019m sorry Ben, I didn\u2019t think about how cold it was. I shouldn\u2019t have asked him to take it off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all right,\u201d said Ben, looking from Joe to George and then back to Joe again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe has such a fine body,\u201d continued George. \u201cI want to make sure that I get the muscle formation just right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell just try and do it without the boy catching his death of cold,\u201d said Ben. \u201cJoe, you\u2019d better get that wood inside for Hop Sing now<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll help,\u201d offered George and between the two of them they picked up the pile of kindling and went into the house with it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam started to lead his horse into the barn, but stopped as he realised that Ben wasn\u2019t following him with his own horse. \u201cPa?\u201d he asked, noticing Ben standing and staring after Joe and George. \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed and began to follow Adam. \u201cAre you sure about George son? I mean \u2026 about him being \u2026 well \u2026. normal?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam made a face as he thought about a few evenings he and George had spent in the company of some rather pretty young ladies in Boston many years ago. \u201cYes, I\u2019m sure,\u201d he said. \u201cYou\u2019ve got nothing to worry about Pa. Besides \u2026. What would it matter anyway?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked shocked as they walked into the barn together. \u201cWhat do you mean \u2026 what would it matter?\u201d he asked. \u201cOf course it would matter!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u201cIf you say so,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo where do you want me to sit?\u201d asked Joe, sounding very pleased with himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George looked around. \u201cOver here I think,\u201d he said. \u201cIn front of the fireplace on the coffee table would be ideal. That way I can use the light from the fire behind you to effect.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat down on the coffee table. \u201cLike this?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George studied him for a moment. \u201cYes, that\u2019s good,\u201d he said. \u201cBut turn more this way \u2026 that\u2019s right. Now, put one foot up on the table.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave his father a cheeky grin, thinking of all the times the man had told him to take his feet off the table and now here he was being told to put it on there. Ben lifted an eyebrow. \u201cTake your boots off first,\u201d he instructed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir,\u201d replied Joe cheekily, pulling his boots off straight away. \u201cLike this professor?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not that one. The other foot,\u201d replied George. \u201cThat\u2019s right. Now \u2026 turn this way \u2026 good. Up straighter \u2026 put your arms like this \u2026 excellent.\u201d He reached out and tilted Joe\u2019s head sideways a bit before stepping back and looking at him critically. \u201cThat\u2019s wonderful. Comfortable?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled at him. \u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d he said. \u201cThis is easy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d replied George, picking up his canvas and placing it on the easel in front of him. \u201cNow all you have to do is sit still Joe. And I mean still,\u201d he said. \u201cI can\u2019t have you moving around at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOK,\u201d said Joe easily. \u201cHow come you brought all that equipment with you Professor? All them canvases and stuff?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell I intend to paint some landscapes while I\u2019m out here,\u201d replied George, sketching furiously. \u201cI never thought I\u2019d be so lucky to be doing a portrait though. You know Joe, you could make quite a bit of money back east as an art model if you wanted to.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah?\u201d replied Joe. \u201cMoney for just sitting doing nothing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Anyone with a body like yours could fetch quite a sum for posing.\u201d George got up and walked over to Joe, feeling his arm muscle for a moment before going back to his canvas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell I reckon that \u2026\u201d Joe began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh,\u201d said George absently, his eyes darting to Joe and then back to his canvas again several times. \u201cI need you to keep your mouth still while I work on it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe closed his mouth and sat as still as he could for several minutes while he listened to the crackling of the logs in the fireplace. Presently he spoke again. \u201cFinished it yet?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Keep quiet for a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From his position at the small round table near the stairs, Hoss gave a chuckle. \u201cThat\u2019ll be a first,\u201d he said. \u201cLittle brother here being quiet. What do ya reckon Adam?\u201d He moved a chess piece. \u201cYour turn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up from the chessboard. \u201cSomething to take note of,\u201d he observed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing walked into the room with a tray. \u201cAfter supper coffee,\u201d he announced and set the steaming pot and cups down on the coffee table next to Joe before beginning to pour out several cups and offer them around. \u201cCoffee cake made special for our guest,\u201d he said, handing large pieces of it around as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d said Joe, when everyone had settled down with their cake and coffee. \u201cWhat about me? I ain\u2019t got none!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKeep your mouth still,\u201d George reprimanded him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have yours later when finished sitting,\u201d Hop Sing said before flouncing out of the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe immediately pouted and George frowned at him. \u201cStop changing your expression,\u201d he said. \u201cI need it as it was before.\u201d Joe sighed and looked at the coffee and cake beside him longingly before regaining his facial expression.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTold you it wasn\u2019t going to be easy,\u201d said Adam, munching on his cake happily. \u201cThat\u2019s the price you have to pay for fame brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d agreed Hoss, winking at Adam. \u201cThis sure is nice cake. Think I\u2019ll have another piece.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019ll be none left for me!\u201d said Joe indignantly as Hoss walked over and took another large piece.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop talking!\u201d said George sternly and Joe sighed again. Perhaps this posing business wasn\u2019t going to be as easy as he\u2019d first thought. He suddenly felt a great desire to scratch his nose and the more he tried not to think about it, the itchier it got.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey professor,\u201d he said. \u201cIs it all right if I scratch my nose for a bit?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d said George. \u201cI\u2019m still working on your face. Keep still.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTry not to think about it son,\u201d said Ben, turning a page of his newspaper. \u201cIt\u2019ll go away presently. So have you done many portraits George?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cQuite a few,\u201d replied George, continuing to sketch. \u201cI get more opportunity to do them now that I\u2019ve retired and have more time. I enjoy it immensely. There\u2019s something about the human form that it so satisfying to replicate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember studying some of the sculptures in the art galleries in Boston,\u201d said Adam. \u201cNow those ancient Greeks really knew about art.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey did indeed,\u201d replied George as he continued to work. \u201cThey perfected the human form. They saw it as the most perfect reflection of the gods and spent a lot of time sculpting the naked body.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNekkid!\u201d exclaimed Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d said George. \u201cThey saw the naked body as something not to be ashamed of, but rather to be admired. It was the purest form of art. Take Joe over here for example. They would have seen his body as a wonderful representation of the gods on earth. They probably would have sculptured a statue of him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think \u2026\u201d began Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cQuiet!\u201d said George sharply and Joe shut his mouth again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTheir gods always took human form,\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExactly,\u201d replied George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell how \u2026\u201d began Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh!\u201d said George. \u201cAnd stop rolling your eyes like that. It\u2019s putting me off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I only \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop talking!\u201d Joe sighed. \u201cAnd stop sighing. You\u2019re changing your facial expressions too much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTold you it wasn\u2019t going to be easy little brother,\u201d said Adam with a grin as Joe tried to keep still. \u201cNow about those Greeks \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave a good stretch before you sit down,\u201d Ben reminded Joe. \u201cRemember how stiff you were after last night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe did remember. What had at first seemed to be a really easy pose to keep had turned into a body-numbing situation and he could hardly wait to get up when George finally said that it was time to finish. He stretched his arms over his head several times and moved his head form side to side to ease his stiff neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be working on your torso tonight Joe,\u201d said George as he busied himself at his easel. \u201cSo you can talk if you like. That might make it a bit easier for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d said Joe as he sat down and took the same position as the night before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust a moment,\u201d said George. \u201cIs it all right to have his shirt off tonight Ben? I\u2019d like to view those chest and stomach muscles again to get his posture right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see why not,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cIts warm in here near the fire.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shed his shirt and George began to position him. \u201cTilt your head over a bit more. That\u2019s it. Now your arm a bit higher.\u201d He ran his hands down the young man\u2019s lean frame and kneaded several of his torso muscles gently. \u201cBeautiful,\u201d he breathed before going back to his easel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned and caught Adam\u2019s eye, but quickly looked away again. He resolved not to leave the room, just in case.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been telling lots of people in town bout having my portrait done,\u201d said Joe as George started to work. \u201cLots of em are interested in seeing it when it\u2019s done if that OK professor.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think that was wise son?\u201d asked Ben. \u201cNo offence to George or anything, but you might want to see if you like it before you start offering viewings of it to all the townsfolk.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure I\u2019ll like it,\u201d replied Joe. \u201cThe professor does real good work. That landscape you did yesterday of the lake was great professor!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell thank you,\u201d replied George. \u201cAnd thanks to Hoss for showing me that spot. I\u2019m going back there tomorrow and painting some of those magnificent pine trees for the background to your portrait Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m gonna be surrounded by pine trees?\u201d said Joe. \u201cWon\u2019t that look a bit funny if I\u2019m sitting on a table?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t be sitting on a table,\u201d said George. \u201cThe table is just to position you. I\u2019m going to make it a large rock in the finished painting. I\u2019d like some of those wildflowers you were telling me about too Hoss if you don\u2019t mind. Perhaps you could bring them tomorrow for me as well?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing professor,\u201d replied Hoss. \u201cI\u2019ll bring you a whole bunch of em.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKeep still,\u201d said George sharply as Joe moved his foot slightly and Joe sighed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBeen taking a bit of extra care there little brother?\u201d Adam teased as he walked past Joe and patted him on his well slicked down hair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glared at him. \u201cWell I wanna look my best,\u201d he said grumpily. \u201cFor the professor\u2019s sake.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d said Adam, sitting down. \u201cFor the professor\u2019s sake. That\u2019s why it took you an extra half hour in the bathhouse after work this afternoon.\u201d He looked at Joe critically and Joe glared back at him. \u201cMake sure you use a bit of poetic licence when you get to those ears, won\u2019t you George?\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou shut up about my ears!\u201d said Joe angrily. \u201cThere\u2019s nothing wrong with em!\u201d He thought for a moment. \u201cWhat\u2019s poetic licence?\u201d he asked George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt means just changing things slightly to make them look at little better,\u201d said George. \u201cDon\u2019t you worry Joe. Your ears will be just perfect.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re already just perfect,\u201d muttered Joe under his breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George sat back and surveyed his work. \u201cWell I\u2019m done with the outline now,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sat forward eagerly. \u201cCan I see it?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George shook his head and picked up a paint palette. \u201cNo. I don\u2019t like my work to be viewed until it\u2019s completely done. Anyway, the outline is just the beginning. Now comes the hard part.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe actually painting,\u201d replied George. He looked at Joe critically. \u201cI\u2019ll start with the skin tones,\u201d he said. \u201cThe light from the fire is casting some wonderful shadows on him and those skin tones are just beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tilted his head and also looked at Joe. \u201cI see what you mean,\u201d he said. \u201cQuite nice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course his skin is quite olive at the best of times,\u201d said George as he began to paint. \u201cIt makes for some interesting shades. And being quite hairless too means that \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d said Joe, beginning to squirm under their close scrutiny. \u201cI am here ya know! Stop talking bout me as if I weren\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d said George. \u201cBut it\u2019s so interesting to look at your form. Adam, see how the torso \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t a horse!\u201d declared Joe indignantly. \u201cPa! Stop talking bout me like that!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam chuckled. \u201cIt\u2019s just like sizing up good stock,\u201d he said delighting in Joe\u2019s discomfort. \u201cGet used to it little brother. Hoss, you\u2019re good with animals. What do you make of him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at his brother critically for a moment. \u201cLong in the withers,\u201d he announced after a moment. \u201cBut could do with some building up in the legs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d shouted Joe indignantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben chuckled. \u201cThat\u2019s enough now boys,\u201d he said. \u201cYou\u2019re embarrassing your brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh we wouldn\u2019t want to do that, would we Hoss,\u201d said Adam with a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLordy no,\u201d said Hoss, looking innocent. \u201cDon\u2019t ya worry Joe. We won\u2019t embarrass ya.\u201d They both chuckled at their glowering younger brother.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Pa,\u201d shouted Joe. \u201cWe\u2019re ready!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m coming,\u201d said his father as he descended the stairs. \u201cJust calm down Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shifted from one foot to the other and then back again in his excitement. \u201cWell it ain\u2019t every day that a fellar gets a painting of him uncovered,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s exciting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUnveiled,\u201d said Adam as he sat down on the arm of the blue chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d Joe gave his brother a puzzled look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUnveiled,\u201d repeated Adam. \u201cWhen a painting is seen for the first time it\u2019s called unveiling it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head and sighed with frustration at his brother\u2019s words. \u201cWell I don\u2019t care what it\u2019s called,\u201d he said. \u201cI just wanna see it.\u201d He looked at George eagerly. \u201cWe\u2019re all here now professor.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George smiled around at them all. \u201cWell,\u201d he said. \u201cHere it is. I hope you like it.\u201d He pulled the red cloth off the canvas which was resting on the coffee table beside him and all the Cartwrights looked at it eagerly. There was a stunned silence for a moment and the only sound that could be heard was the crackling of the logs in the fireplace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was the first to speak. \u201cIt\u2019s wonderful,\u201d he said. \u201cJust wonderful George. You\u2019ve captured Joe perfectly. Don\u2019t you think so Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at the painting and then at Adam, before looking back at the painting again. \u201cUm \u2026 well yes,\u201d he admitted. \u201cIt certainly shows the essence of Joe all right.\u201d He tried to smile at George, not wanting the man to sense his discomfort. \u201cIt\u2019s \u2026 a very good likeness,\u201d he said. \u201cYou\u2019re \u2026 um \u2026 a wonderful artist George.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d said George proudly. \u201cWhat do you think of it Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stared at the painting, his mouth hanging open and his eyes nearly popping out of his head. \u201cIt\u2019s \u2026 it\u2019s \u2026.\u201d He groped for the right words to say. \u201cI look \u2026 I mean \u2026. I\u2019m \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s nekkid!\u201d Hoss interjected for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded slowly, not taking his eyes off the painting in his shock. \u201cYeah,\u201d he said weakly. \u201cI am.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George smile became broader. \u201cYes you are. I call it Adonis in the Wilderness<\/em>,\u201d he said. \u201cDo you like the way I\u2019ve incorporated the pines behind him and the wildflowers at his foot Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure do,\u201d said Hoss, staring at the painting. \u201cI\u2019m right glad you had his other foot up there on that rock too and he\u2019s holding onto his knee and all. Otherwise \u2026.\u201d His voice trailed away and he was silent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOtherwise everyone could see all of me!\u201d said Joe. \u201cAnd I mean all<\/em> of me! How come I\u2019ve got no clothes on?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see it as the quintessential display of man and nature coming together,\u201d said George. \u201cThe natural human form in its natural surroundings. It just didn\u2019t feel right to have you clothed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe went slightly red. \u201cYeah \u2026 but \u2026 maybe you had to do all that quint stuff \u2026 but did you have to have me \u2026.\u201d He swallowed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNekkid!\u201d said Hoss again, his eyes by now bulging out of his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh for heaven\u2019s sake,\u201d said Adam, taking a closer look at the painting. \u201cStop fussing you two. It really is very good George. I\u2019m sure people will receive it well back east.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop fussing?\u201d said Joe. \u201cThat\u2019s all right for you to say! You\u2019re not the one who\u2019s \u2026\u201d his voice trailed away at the thought of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNekkid,\u201d Hoss supplied for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u201cYeah,\u201d he agreed. \u201cNaked!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope I haven\u2019t embarrassed you Joe,\u201d said George. \u201cI haven\u2019t meant to. I can assure you that people will love this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll bet they will,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cSpecially when all the hands see it and all them folks in town like you done promised could look at it Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked aghast and suddenly went pale. \u201cYou can\u2019t show this to anyone,\u201d he said in a shocked voice. \u201cYou \u2026. you can\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop being such a baby,\u201d said Adam. \u201cIt\u2019s art.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNekkid,\u201d Hoss interjected.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, thank you Hoss,\u201d said Ben. \u201cWe\u2019ve all seen it and we know what it is.\u201d He looked at the painting critically. \u201cAs Adam has said George you\u2019ve captured Joe perfectly, but I think it might embarrass him to have it shown around. Perhaps it would be better if you didn\u2019t display it until you go back East?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCertainly,\u201d said George. \u201cAs I said, I wouldn\u2019t want to embarrass you Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave him a weak smile. \u201cYou ain\u2019t gonna \u2026 well \u2026 show it to many people back there are you?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am indeed,\u201d said George, with a satisfied air. \u201cI\u2019m hoping that I can get it displayed in one of the art galleries in Boston.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you worry about it Joe,\u201d said Ben soothingly. \u201cNobody that you know will see it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI sure hope not,\u201d said Joe fervently. He looked at his father hopefully. \u201cCouldn\u2019t we buy it Pa?\u2019 he asked. \u201cThen no one would haveta see it at all. I could hide it away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George put up his hand to stop Ben before he could say anything. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I\u2019m not prepared to part with this one. If you want some of my sketches I\u2019m happy to give them to you, but I can\u2019t part with my Adonis<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell if you ever change your mind, please let me know,\u201d said Ben. \u201cI\u2019d love to have it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d said Adam with a twinkle in his eye. \u201cWe could put it over the fireplace. Pride of place so to speak.\u201d He grinned at the look on Joe\u2019s face at his words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI promise you that if I ever decide to part with it then you may have first option on it Ben,\u201d said George. He reached down and picked up a small canvas. \u201cAnd in the meantime I did a small copy for you. It\u2019s my way of saying thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at the miniature painting. \u201cIt\u2019s beautiful,\u201d he said. \u201cThat was very thoughtful of you George. Thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome,\u201d said George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not gonna put it out for everyone to see are you Pa?\u201d asked Joe anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at the image of his handsome youngest son staring back at him from the painting. \u201cDon\u2019t worry Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ll keep it private. Just for myself.\u201d His eyes misted over as he thought for a moment how very much like his darling Marie \u2026 Joe\u2019s mother \u2026 the painting was and he unobtrusively held it next to his heart for an instant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019s it called Adonis<\/em> anyways?\u201d asked Hoss. \u201cWhy not just call it Joe in the Wilderness<\/em>? Who\u2019s this Adonis fella?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was a figure in ancient Greek mythology,\u201d explained Adam. \u201cHe was known for his outstanding beauty and had an affair with Aphrodite \u2026. the goddess of love. Apparently she was smitten by his looks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like a right compliment to me Joe,\u201d said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged and gave them all a crooked smile. \u201cI spose so,\u201d he acknowledged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss picked up the three bags and handed them up to the driver of the stage. \u201cLooks like I\u2019m leaving with more luggage than when I came,\u201d said George, looking at the remaining bag at his feet. That\u2019s what I get for doing so many landscapes. Please be careful with that one Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing Professor,\u201d said Hoss, picking up the large bag and handing it up to the driver. \u201cHow come you ain\u2019t got Joe\u2019s painting in here with the others but?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m taking it on board with me,\u201d said George. \u201cI\u2019m not taking any chances of anything happening to my Adonis<\/em>. Would you mind getting it for me please Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWith pleasure,\u201d said Joe, heading back to the buggy for the large brown-paper wrapped flat parcel. \u201cI\u2019ll be glad to get rid of it. No offence Professor.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNone taken,\u201d laughed George. He held out his hand to Ben and then Adam. \u201cThank you,\u201d he said as he shook their hands. \u201cI\u2019ve had a wonderful few weeks and I\u2019m taking my memories back with me in my paintings.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad that you enjoyed yourself,\u201d said Adam as he shook the man\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome back any time George,\u201d said Ben. \u201cJoseph! Be careful with that painting! Stop swinging it!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned at his father. \u201cIt\u2019s fine Pa,\u201d he said as he held onto it by the string. He watched a couple of pretty young girls walk past and tipped his hat to them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The stage driver jumped down from the stage and wiped his hands on his trousers before giving Joe a frustrated look. \u201cWhy didn\u2019t ya tell me that there was one more parcel before I got down?\u201d he said testily and grabbed the painting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried to grab it back again. \u201cIt\u2019s not going up there,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s \u2026 oops!\u201d he stared in dismay as the painting flew out of his hands and landed in the dusty street. \u201cIt\u2019s OK,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ll get it.\u201d He held it up and examined it. \u201cIt\u2019s fine,\u201d he said. \u201cNot hurt a bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The driver tilted his head to one side and looked at the large parcel in Joe\u2019s hands. \u201cHey,\u201d he said, grabbing it and turning it over to reveal the torn brown paper on the other side. \u201cThat\u2019s real good! Is that you Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s jaw dropped as he noted the torn paper, which fell away to reveal his naked self in all its glory. The driver held it up high and showed it around to several people passing by. \u201cHey! Take a look at this! Real fine don\u2019t ya think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tried to snatch it away from the driver, but the man was having none of that. He held it up even higher and several people stopped to look at it in amazement. Several of the men in the crowd winked at Joe and began to chuckle, while a couple of women shielded their daughters\u2019 eyes and steered them away quickly, giving Joe horrified looks as they did so. \u201cGive it to me!\u201d Joe shouted desperately and jumped forward to grab it from the driver. He turned the painting around and held it against himself defensively, staring at everyone with reddened cheeks. A couple of saloon girls blew kisses at him and then giggled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSteady on,\u201d chuckled the driver. \u201cYou oughta be proud from what I saw of that there painting young fella. You\u2019ve got quite a look about you if ya know what I mean.\u201d He chuckled even more as Joe went decidedly red and turned his back on the man. He pulled the brown paper around the painting again and began to tie it up firmly with the string before handing it to George.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere,\u201d he said. \u201cGet rid of it before anyone else sees it, will ya professor?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

George took the painting, reached up and placed it no the seat of the stagecoach. \u201cGoodbye Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cThank you for everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah \u2026. Bye,\u201d mumbled Joe, checking out the crowd around him, several of whom were chuckling. As far as he was concerned the professor couldn\u2019t get on that stage fast enough and he and that darned portrait could just vanish into thin air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGoodbye Hoss,\u201d said George as he got up into the stagecoach. The crowd gradually dispersed as the stage drew away and Joe let out a sigh of relief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put his arm around his son\u2019s shoulder. \u201cRelax Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t that bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pulled a face. \u201cYa reckon?\u201d he said. \u201cYou saw what happened Pa. Everyone saw me \u2026 well \u2026 you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor heaven\u2019s sake,\u201d said Adam. \u201cIts art remember? People have been painted that way since the time of the ancient Greeks \u2026 and before. Stop being so embarrassed about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell you\u2019d be embarrassed if it was you!\u201d retorted Joe angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on son,\u201d said his father soothingly. \u201cIt\u2019s not that bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened his mouth to make a retort, but before he could he noticed the two saloon girls in the doorway of the Silver Dollar saloon who were still blowing kisses at him and giggling. His anguished look suddenly turned to a small smile. \u201cWell maybe it\u2019s not,\u201d he said grudgingly as he allowed himself to be led to the buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

: : : : : : : : : :<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMail!\u201d shouted Hoss as he flung open the front door and sent it crashing into the credenza. \u201cSorry Pa,\u201d he added, noting the look on his father\u2019s face. He flung a pile of letters down onto the piece of furniture and picked up one to study for a moment. \u201cThere\u2019s one here for you Adam,\u201d he said, holding it out to his brother. \u201cFrom Boston.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cProbably my grandfather,\u201d said Adam as he took the letter. He examined the writing for a moment before correcting himself. \u201cNo … it\u2019s from George.\u201d He ripped the letter open and began to read silently, before looking up. \u201cThere\u2019s a bit here about your painting Joe,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe groaned. \u201cWhat does it say?\u201d he asked wearily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam began to read:<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dear Adam,<\/p>\n

Thank you for your latest letter. I have such fond memories of my stay with you and your family and your wonderful home in Nevada.<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll all be pleased to know that \u201cAdonis in the Wilderness\u201d<\/em> was accepted by the Boston University Art Gallery and they have been displaying it as part of an exhibition during the past few months. It has been quite the talk of the city and thousands have been to see it. I am delighted with the response so far.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up. \u201cThere\u2019s more \u2026 but that\u2019s all about the painting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe groaned again. \u201cI mighta known it,\u201d he said. \u201cAll them thousands of people staring at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u201cNekkid,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe made a face. \u201cYeah,\u201d he agreed. \u201cNaked.\u201d He thought for a moment. \u201cWell that\u2019s it then,\u201d he said. \u201cI can never go back East again. Not after this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh son, it\u2019s not that bad,\u201d said his father calmly. \u201cIt\u2019s a fine piece of artwork and you should feel honoured to be the subject of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is a fine piece of art all right,\u201d agreed Adam. \u201cYou know \u2026 I\u2019m sure my grandfather would love to view it. I think I might write to him and let him know it\u2019s on display in Boston.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s mouth dropped open and he stared aghast at his brother. \u201cPa!\u201d he shouted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam chuckled. \u201cJust kidding little brother,\u201d he said, slapping Joe playfully on the back. \u201cJust kidding.\u201d He went back to reading his letter, adding softly. \u201cBesides, he\u2019s a great lover of art. He\u2019s probably already been to see it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll the hands have been asking how come they didn\u2019t get to see the painting,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cThey\u2019ve heard about it in town cause it seems that everyone is talking bout it since they got a quick look at it that day when it fell on the ground.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned at Joe who gave him a weak smile in return. \u201cMaybe we can put that miniature that Pa has on display for them all?\u201d he suggested. \u201cI\u2019m sure they\u2019d enjoy that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned as well. \u201cGood idea Adam. The fellas would be right pleased to see it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave his father an aggrieved look. \u201cPa!\u201d he shouted, but Ben was too busy laughing to heed his youngest son\u2019s distress.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/g><\/svg><\/i> \"Loading\"<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: One of Adam\u2019s retired professors visits the Ponderosa for a vacation; involving the entire family in his latest art project.\u00a0 Is Virginia City ready for the newest Adonis? \u00a0<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T \u00a0\u00a0WC 10,100<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":3932,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23,1008,4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-11356","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-humor","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-4-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1710,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/joeshirtone.jpg?fit=350%2C311&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":14378,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14378","url_meta":{"origin":11356,"position":0},"title":"Camp Fire Tales (by Robin)","author":"profrobinw","date":"July 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0What else is there to do around a camp fire? 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Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (1,090 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":40887,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=40887","url_meta":{"origin":11356,"position":5},"title":"The Way it Should Be – by Lisa Orcutt","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"March 27, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 \u00a0 A new generation of Cartwrights, with very familiar names, breathes new life into the Ponderosa. 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