{"id":12018,"date":"2013-04-17T21:07:46","date_gmt":"2013-04-18T01:07:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12018"},"modified":"2026-07-22T11:27:45","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T15:27:45","slug":"to-nuture-by-pbeaking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12018","title":{"rendered":"To Nurture (by pbeaking)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>:\u00a0 A young Hoss finds out that he has a talent for nursing animals back to health. In fact, he\u2019s been so successful at it that he thinks he can cure any and all creatures. This leads to trouble for the Cartwright brothers.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (6,240 words)<\/p>\n

To Nurture<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright quietly opened the door to the barn looking for his middle son, Hoss. The 7 year old boy had practically spent every minute of the last four days squatted down in the hay next to a sickly calf. Its mother had abandoned it at birth and Ben and Hoss had found it barely alive. At first sight, Ben felt it best to put the calf out of its misery.<\/p>\n

He remembered telling his son, \u201cI know its hard, but you are only prolonging its agony. You don\u2019t want to see it suffer, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss pleaded with his father to give him a chance to nurse it back to health.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I know I can help it. If\u2019n it gets any worse… then I know you have to do what you got to do. I just don\u2019t think it\u2019s fair not to give it a chance is all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked at the calf. He had seen this many times before and knew that the baby had little hope for survival. He then looked at his son, his most sensitive child. Would he be able to deal with the heartbreak of losing the calf?<\/p>\n

After a few moments, Ben heaved a sigh. Despite it being against his better judgment, he consented to keeping it.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, son. We\u2019ll take it home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s face lit up and he flashed the broadest gapped-toothed grin. Ben loaded the calf in the wagon hoping that he was making the right decision\u2026 one that both he and his son wouldn\u2019t regret doing later.<\/p>\n

This time, it was the right decision. Hoss had proven to be a good surrogate mother. The calf had shown steady improvement and was now standing and eating on its own. Ben smiled with pride as he watched his son calmly stroke the calf, speaking to it in a soft, gentle tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe boy sure has a way with animals,\u201d<\/em> he marveled.<\/p>\n

After a moment, he decided to make his presence known.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey there stranger, aren\u2019t you getting a might bit hungry?\u201d he asked his son.<\/p>\n

Hoss turned and smiled at his pa.<\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t he doin\u2019 good, Pa? I told ya he would make it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat you did, son,\u201d Ben acknowledged. \u201cNow I think it\u2019s time for you to come inside and get a bite to eat.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked backed at the calf. \u201cI\u2019ll be in a minute, Pa. I want to make sure Lucky here has fresh hay to lay on tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben smirked at hearing the calf\u2019s chosen name for the first time.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, son, but hurry along. You know how Hop Sing is about people missing at the dinner table.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Pa \u2026. and Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss turned towards his father and waited for him to make eye contact. He then smiled broadly, and said a heartfelt \u201cThanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben acknowledged with a simple smile and head nod. Then he made his way back to the house. Hoss turned his attention back to the calf.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, ole Luck. Now that you have your belly full it\u2019s time for me to do the same.\u201d The calf let out a snort as if to acknowledge what had been said to him. Hoss snickered. Then he began throwing fresh hay into the stall for the animal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From that day forward, Hoss had found a new passion. He somehow felt that it was his duty to take in every stray animal and nurse it back to health. Didn\u2019t matter what it was… a bird with a broken wing, a nest of eggs abandoned, a stray puppy or kitten… Hoss wanted to help them all. The funny thing about it was that he not only helped them, but was successful at doing it. All his patients recovered from their injuries and were released back in the wild or given new homes.<\/p>\n

Ben, at first, was proud of his son\u2019s gift with animals. He just seemed to have a knack for putting them at ease and helping them to recover. Ben\u2019s pride, however, lasted for only a brief while. One day, Hoss made a poor decision to bring home an unthinkable animal.<\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS! WHAT ON EARTH DO YOU THINK YOU\u2019RE DOING!\u201d Ben bellowed as he saw his son gingerly placing the critter into one of his makeshift cages.<\/p>\n

\u201cYOU CAN\u2019T KEEP THAT THING IN HERE!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s loud booming voice startled the animal. Well, let\u2019s just say that soon the barn did not smell like roses. Both Ben and Hoss quickly fled the scene, coughing and gasping for air. A moment later, the culprit limped off into the woods, leaving father and son to face the aftermath.<\/p>\n

Ben was so angry he couldn\u2019t even begin to speak for several moments. He just kept pacing and pausing as if he was going to speak; only to start pacing again. Hoss just stood staring at the ground sniffling.<\/p>\n

When Ben finally found his voice, \u201cHow?.. What?… A SKUNK?!\u201d was all Ben could muster.<\/p>\n

Hoss cringed at his father\u2019s tone and softly uttered, \u201cSorry, Pa. It had an injured front paw.\u201d<\/p>\n

Just then Hop Sing and Adam came running out of the house, hearing the commotion. Their noses quickly informed them of what was going on and they immediately retreated to a safe distance.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened, Pa?\u201d Adam questioned, trying to stifle the smirk that was finding its way to his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour brother thought he could help an injured skunk. Well HE thought wrong!\u201d Ben turned and shot a stern look at Hoss.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing and Adam exchanged glances. Both were having difficulty maintaining a straight face. Hoss remained sullen for he knew he was in big trouble.<\/p>\n

After a moment, Hop Sing spoke. \u201cMr. Cartwright… you and Hoss very smelly… very smelly indeed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t contain himself any longer and let out a roar.
\nBen shot him a piercing glare. \u201cI don\u2019t find any humor in this incident,\u201d he coldly stated.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing quickly continued, \u201cDon\u2019t worry Mr. Cartwright… Hop Sing knows how to handle this… Soon you and number two son will smell like…\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing paused for emphasis.<\/p>\n

\u201cA bouquet of freshly cut flowers… you\u2019ll see. Wait here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing then turned and quickly made his way to the house. By the time he reached the door he was doubled over in laughter.<\/p>\n

Adam looked over at his younger brother who was almost shaking with fear. Hoss was one that rarely ever got into trouble with Pa. He decided it would be in his brother\u2019s best interest to stay put and try to calm his father down, for what it was worth.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019ll take Hoss down to the creek and help him bathe there.\u201d Adam plugged his nose with his one hand and protectively put his arm around his baby brother. Ben knew what his oldest was trying to do. He also knew he needed time to cool off before discussing this little incident with his son. Frustrated, he simply nodded at Adam and turned towards the barn. Adam quickly ushered his brother away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That night, Hoss waited in his room for his father. Adam had taken him down to the creek and nearly scrubbed his skin off with Hop Sing\u2019s skunk remedy. To him, it smelled worse than the skunk himself, but it served its purpose and now, for the most part, he was at least tolerable to be around.<\/p>\n

Just then there was a knock at the door and Ben Cartwright entered. Hoss immediately looked up at him to analyze his face. He wore a stern expression, but the anger was gone from his eyes.
\nBen walked over and sat quietly down next to his son. There was a long silence before he spoke.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I know what happened today was an accident. You didn\u2019t mean for it to happen, but it did. You are old enough young man to know better than to bring a skunk on the premises.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss wasn\u2019t quite sure what \u2018premises\u2019 meant, but he got the point. He hung his head and his eyes began to water. Then he started to plead his case.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019m sorry… I just didn\u2019t think… The poor little critter had been caught in a trap… I think his front paw was broke… He let me get his paw out and pick him up and everything without sprayin\u2019… He seemed to know I was trying to help… It\u2019s just when you…\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s voice trailed off. Ben hadn\u2019t given it much thought up to that point. It was true. The boy had managed to get the skunk home without any incident. But what had made the skunk spray? Suddenly Ben realized what had happened. He was the reason the skunk made himself known.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was my voice, wasn\u2019t it?\u201d He softly asked. Hoss simply nodded.<\/p>\n

Ben sat stunned for a moment as he digested this new information. He then quietly arose from the bed and walked towards the door, addressing his son as he moved.<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom now on, you will not bring any animals home without permission, understood?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss heaved a huge sigh. He\u2019d dodged a bullet. \u201cYes, Pa. I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

When Ben reached the door, he turned one last time towards his son. \u201cYou best get ready for bed. We have church in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cBased on our current conditions, I wouldn\u2019t be surprised if we end up sharing a pew all to ourselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben then smiled broadly at his son and the two shared a laugh.<\/p>\n

\u201cGoodnight, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGoodnight, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

About a month later, Ben asked Hoss if he would like to come with him to see one of the neighbor\u2019s new foals. Mr. Granger lived not too far from the ranch and was good friends with Ben and the boys. Hoss\u2019s eyes opened wide at the prospect. \u201cYes, sir!\u201d he eagerly answered his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell then, we\u2019ll leave right after breakfast.\u201d<\/p>\n

When Ben and Hoss pulled into the yard, they were greeted by Mr. Granger.<\/p>\n

\u201cBen… Hoss… what a surprise. What brings you our way?\u201d He asked.<\/p>\n

He then looked down at Hoss and could tell by the boy\u2019s expression the very reason for the visit.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh I see… I bet you two are here to see that new foal of mine, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss nodded eagerly and Ben and Mr. Granger shared a laugh. After a moment Mr. Granger turned towards Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s in the barn if you care for a look see.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked up at his father for approval and Ben gave the boy a simple nod. The boy ran off in a flash. He eagerly flung the barn door open and ran up to the stall. His eyes fell on a beautiful black and white foal that lay in the straw next to his mother. Hoss stepped up on one of the railings to take a closer look and his movement startled the foal to its feet. That\u2019s when Hoss noticed there was something wrong. The foal\u2019s front right leg had a deformity. He could tell the horse was having difficulty using it as it hobbled over to its mother for milk.<\/p>\n

Just then, Ben and Mr. Granger entered. Ben approached the stall and eagerly said, \u201cWell, Hoss. What do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

His voice trailed off as he, too, noticed the poor animal\u2019s leg. Hoss said nothing, but continued to watch the animal. Mr. Granger gave Ben the eye and both men stepped outside the barn.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with it, Dave?\u201d Ben questioned immediately once they were outside.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I had old Hank Levitz come and look at him this morning. There\u2019s nothing that can be done. Apparently, the bones are deformed and rubbing together. This is causing an infection.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben tried to be positive. \u201cCan\u2019t you fight the infection?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but the deformity would still remain only to bring on another infection in time. As much as I hate to, I\u2019m afraid I\u2019m going to have to put it out of its misery soon. I just haven\u2019t had the heart to do it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben placed his hand on the man\u2019s shoulder in sympathy. \u201cI could take Hoss home and then come back if you like.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Ben, but I\u2019ll manage. This is Gretchen\u2019s first foal and I want to give them a few days together.\u201d Mr. Granger looked sadly towards the barn door.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I know that you\u2019ll know when the time is right,\u201d Ben softly said to his friend.<\/p>\n

Then the two men re-entered the barn.<\/p>\n

Ben walked over to his son and began to escort him away. He could tell the boy was upset with what he saw. \u201cWell, Hoss, we have things to do at home. We best let Mr. Granger get on with his chores.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss said nothing as they mounted and rode towards home.<\/p>\n

Half way down the trail Hoss suddenly spoke. \u201cPa… Do you remember how I helped Lucky?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben knew right away the boy\u2019s intentions. \u201cYes, Hoss you did a wonderful job with your calf. But the foal isn\u2019t ours, Hoss. It belongs to Mr. Granger and it is up to him to care for it now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss didn\u2019t let on, but he had heard every word discussed between the men. Deep inside he knew he could help that foal just like he helped old Lucky. But he also knew that his father would never give him the chance based on what Mr. Granger had told him.<\/p>\n

Hoss was noticeably quiet the rest of the evening.<\/p>\n

That night after Ben tucked both boys in bed, Hoss decided to talk to Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, did Pa tell you about Mr. Granger\u2019s foal?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben had informed his oldest son of the details.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he told me about that, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss waited a moment before speaking again. \u201cAdam, I did a bad thing today.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam arose from his bed. \u201cDo you want to talk about it?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

Hoss answered with a \u201cuh huh.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam lit the lamp by his bed and sat up.<\/p>\n

It was a moment before Hoss spoke again. \u201cI… I… listened to Mr. Granger and Pa talking outside the barn. I know what Mr. Granger plans to do with the foal.\u201d The sound of sniffles followed.<\/p>\n

Adam was stunned. \u201cYou mean you listened in when you weren\u2019t supposed to? Oh, Hoss. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy had started to cry now. \u201cI didn\u2019t mean to… I was going to ask them if they would let me try and help the foal. I walked over to the door … and that\u2019s when I heard.\u201d Hoss\u2019s voice trailed off as he began to sob.<\/p>\n

Adam moved over to comfort his brother, placing an arm around his shoulders and drawing him near.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I know ya feel bad, but Pa has told you that things like this happen. It\u2019s part of nature.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Adam. It\u2019s just that…well… I could help that foal if Pa would let me. All I want is a chance. Just look how I helped Lucky. Pa thought he wouldn\u2019t make it either.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss construed his face up into a pout.<\/p>\n

Adam now was at a loss for words. He, too, was amazed at what his brother did for that calf. Yet, he understood why his father had said no to the foal. Mr. Levitz was never wrong in his prediction with animals and Hoss would take it hard if the foal died in his care.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s thoughts kept drifting back to one thing. Hoss had helped that calf even though his Pa felt it hopeless. He began to wonder if Hoss really could make a difference with the animal.<\/p>\n

He decided to question his brother further. \u201cWhat would you do for that foal if you had a chance, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, first I draw out the infection and then I\u2019d put the leg in a splint so that the bones wouldn\u2019t rub together. I figure in time the bones would grow and the splint would adjust them so they wouldn\u2019t rub anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was amazed at his brother\u2019s ability to figure these sort of things out.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you really think it might work?\u201d Adam questioned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I don\u2019t know … but I just figure it should.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was satisfied with his brother\u2019s explanation, but he had to find out one more thing.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, what if it doesn\u2019t work?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was quiet for a few moments before responding.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if\u2019n it don\u2019t work at least I tried. No harm in tryin\u2019 anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam could tell the boy was hurt that his father wouldn\u2019t even give him a chance. He needed time to think, so he arose from the bed and moved back over to his own.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, try to get some rest. We\u2019ll speak more about this in the morning, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss wiped his nose with the sleeve of his nightshirt and lay back down in bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cGoodnight, Adam,\u201d he softly said.<\/p>\n

\u201cGoodnight, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam then turned down the light.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next morning Hoss arose to find Adam gone. He dressed quickly and made his way downstairs. As he entered the living room he was greeted by Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss. Sit… I\u2019ll get your breakfast.\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is everyone?\u201d Hoss questioned.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour brother had chores. Told me to tell you to meet him by lake.\u201d<\/p>\n

Satisfied, Hoss turned his attention to the absence of his Pa.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing looked up at him annoyed. \u201cWhat am I… personal messenger?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss just cast his eyes downward.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing curtly responded, \u201cYour father had business with Mr. Granger. Now eat!\u201d He then turned around and walked hastily back into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

Hoss ate his breakfast and headed down to the lake. Adam was waiting for him there.<\/p>\n

His brother jumped up to greet him. \u201cHoss, you didn\u2019t say anything to Pa, did you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, he wasn\u2019t home. What\u2019s going on?\u201d Adam looked around suspiciously before continuing.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember what we talked about last night? Do you still think you can help that foal?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked up at his brother with a puzzled look and simply nodded.
\nAdam turned around and started walking away, motioning Hoss to follow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I just don\u2019t understand it. Why would someone take my Gretchen?\u201d Mr. Granger was beside himself with worry.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey took the foal, too… Damn fools. Couldn\u2019t they see it was injured?\u201d Mr. Granger paused to run his hand through his hair.<\/p>\n

Ben interjected. \u201cNow, calm down, Dave. I\u2019m sure there\u2019s a reasonable explanation for all this. When did you last see Gretchen?\u201d<\/p>\n

Mr. Granger let out a huge sigh. \u201cWell, I\u2019d say it was about 10:00 o\u2019clock when I made my last rounds. I never heard a thing after that. I sent a hand into town to gather Sheriff Coffee. They couldn\u2019t have gotten too far with that injured foal.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben quickly mounted his horse. \u201cWell, in the meantime, Dave. I\u2019ll gather some of my men and we\u2019ll start looking. We\u2019ll meet back here before nightfall.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben then rode quickly out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam led Hoss to an old abandoned barn just north of the lake. Neither boy spoke as they quietly stepped inside. Hoss immediately saw why his brother had been so secretive. There in one of the old stalls was Gretchen and the new foal. Hoss at first was stunned. Then a huge smile swept across his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Adam. Thanks for giving me a chance.\u201d He hurried over to the foal and immediately went right to work on the injured animal.<\/p>\n

Adam watched in silence. Inside, his mind was racing every which way. He knew it was wrong to take another man\u2019s animal, but if Hoss was able to save the foal all would be forgiven. At least he hoped all would be forgiven. With that thought in mind, Adam inadvertently rubbed his backside. His brother only wanted a chance and he was bound and determined to give him that opportunity, regardless.<\/p>\n

When Hoss was done, the boys quickly returned home, vowing to be silent about what had happened until the foal had completely recovered. They worked out a plan as to who would check in on the horses and when and how they would cover their absence at home if need be. Hoss knew Adam had stuck his neck out on the line for him and for that he was grateful. Yet, he was worried about what would happen if they did get caught.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam… What if…\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam knew what his brother was about to say and interrupted.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I know what I did was wrong and I\u2019m ready to face up to it when the time comes. You didn\u2019t take the horses, I did. Right now you need to focus on getting that foal well… nothing more, understand? If you do a good job, then I\u2019m sure things will work out okay.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss just smiled up at his brother. Adam swallowed hard. Deep down he knew regardless of the outcome that his Pa would not be all forgiving and there would be consequences for his actions. But what was done was done. Right now all he could hope for was that his brother would be able to help the foal. The rest would come… in time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That night at the supper table both Adam and Hoss were quiet. Their father had come home exhausted from riding. He had been out looking all day for horse thieves and nothing had gotten done on his own ranch. Little did he know that the very ones he spent all day looking for were sitting directly across the table from him.<\/p>\n

The three ate quietly, each in their own realm of thought. Ben was first to break the silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, I have to go over to the Granger\u2019s farm again tomorrow. Adam, I need you to take on a few extra chores while I\u2019m away and Hoss you are to help your brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Both boys nodded and softly said, \u201cYes, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m going to turn in early and I would suggest you two do the same.\u201d<\/p>\n

Both boys arose from the table and gave their Pa a goodnight kiss. Adam noticed Hoss starting to waver and quickly ushered him into their room.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss. You can\u2019t tell Pa now!\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss began to sniffle. \u201cI know Adam, but he looked so tired. He wouldn\u2019t be so tired if\u2019n we hadn\u2019t done what we done.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked at his brother. \u201cHoss, you asked for a chance and you got one. Pa will be okay after a good nights sleep. You\u2019ll see. We best get some sleep ourselves. We have a busy day tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam led his brother over to his bed and helped him put on his nightshirt. He tucked the covers up all around and said a simple \u201cGoodnight.\u201d<\/p>\n

A few moments later, Adam lay in bed hoping… hoping that he had hidden his trail well enough that his Pa and Mr. Granger could not find the horses. His mind was cluttered with all sorts of feelings… guilt, fear, hope…<\/p>\n

Soon the boy finally dozed off into a restless sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss did well the whole next week. They managed to take care of the foal and its mother and not shirk on any of their ranch duties. Their Pa and Mr. Granger had given up on the horse thieves after a few days and life was returning back to normal, for the most part.<\/p>\n

Soon, Adam was beginning to get a little edgy. Hoss had taken care of the infection quickly and it was almost gone. The boys had made a special splint out of an old stage coach wheel their Pa had found along the road. The foal now had a bright red brace with gold lettering down the side. The horse had begun to adjust to the extra support, but the bones in the leg had not shown any progress. Time was ticking away and Adam didn\u2019t know how much longer his brother could keep what they were doing a secret. Hoss had almost spilled the beans on several occasions, but Adam had found a way to divert his Pa\u2019s attention away from his brother\u2019s actions and keep their secret in tact.<\/p>\n

As the time stretched into the next week and the next, the boys were running out of excuses to give. Hoss was on the verge of exploding and Adam knew he had to think of a plan fast. He waited until his Pa had tucked them into bed before speaking with Hoss about it.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I want you to listen. You\u2019ve done all you can for that little foal and I think it\u2019s time we returned it to Mr. Granger.\u201d There was silence… then sniffles… then crying.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam… I did the best I could… it just takes time for bones to grow. Mr. Granger will just kill it, Adam. It\u2019s not fair!\u201d\u201d Hoss spewed out the words between sobs.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss… listen to me. The foal has improved and I think it still may have a chance. I just don\u2019t think it\u2019s in our best interest to keep things hidden from Pa anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked up in surprise. \u201cYou mean you think we should tell Pa? I don\u2019t think he\u2019d take it too good.\u201d Hoss\u2019s voice trailed off at the thought.<\/p>\n

Adam knew that his brother\u2019s comment was definitely an understatement and quickly replied. \u201cWell, not exactly, Hoss. I think there\u2019s a way we can do it without Pa knowing we were involved… at least for a while anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss was puzzled and waited for Adam to explain.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen. I\u2019m going to take Gretchen and the foal back to Mr. Granger\u2019s barn this evening. When he wakes in the morning he won\u2019t know who returned his animals.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s face scrunched up in disapproval. \u201cYou mean we\u2019d have to keep this a secret for the rest or our lives! I don\u2019t think I could do it, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam knew deep down that he, too, could never keep something from his Pa.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, not forever, Hoss. Just for a little a while until things blow over. Then we can just casually bring it up some day at the dinner table.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam smirked at his choice of words for he knew darn well that it wasn\u2019t going to be that easy; nor did he expect it to be a pleasant experience for either one of them once the truth was known.<\/p>\n

Hoss said nothing for he knew Adam was right. Tears began to flow again as he thought of the little foal\u2019s fate. Adam reached his arm around his younger brother and gave him a comforting squeeze.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss you have to have faith… that foal has improved under your care… maybe enough so that Mr. Granger will give it a chance. That\u2019s truly what you wanted, wasn\u2019t it? You wanted that foal to have a chance at life. You must remember that you were the only one who gave that to him, Hoss…regardless… and for that you should always be proud.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss nodded and simply said, \u201cThanks, Adam for having faith in me.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two sat quietly in the dark each absorbed in their own thoughts. The road that lay ahead could turn any which way. They could only hope the chosen path would end up being in their favor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next morning things seemed back to normal. Hoss met his Pa and Adam at the breakfast table. Adam looked tired but winked at Hoss to let him know everything had gone as planned. Hoss grinned broadly and dove into the food on the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy, son!\u201d Ben exclaimed. \u201cYou act like you haven\u2019t eaten in weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Pa.\u201d The boy uttered, speaking with his mouth full of food. \u201cI\u2019m just plain starvin\u2019 is all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben and Adam both let out a laugh.<\/p>\n

Just then there was a rap at the door. Hop Sing answered to find one of Mr. Granger\u2019s ranch hands, Harvey. Ben arose from the table to greet the man.<\/p>\n

\u201cHarvey, come in. We were just about to have breakfast. Care to join us?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

Harvey wasted no time in explaining why he was there. \u201cMr. Cartwright… Mr. Granger sent me to git you right quick. He says it\u2019s important and wants you to come right away.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course…of course…Harvey, I just need to saddle my horse. Did Dave say what it was about?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben immediately grabbed his hat and gun belt, motioning the man towards the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir, I was told to git you and then ride into town to get Sheriff Coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n

Harvey then turned and started out the door with Ben in pursuit.<\/p>\n

This left two startled boys at the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a long afternoon for Adam and Hoss. They tried to focus on their chores, working silently side by side, but their minds were on one thing… their father and Mr. Granger. Towards midday, Ben returned to his ranch. Dave had found his beloved Gretchen with her foal in the barn unharmed. Obviously someone had taken good care of them, but who and why? Dave, Ben, and Roy were all befuddled.<\/p>\n

As Ben rode into his yard there was one thing he just could not get off his mind…the foal\u2019s brace. Why had it looked so familiar to him? Suddenly he realized where he had seen that red paint and gold lettering before. He dismounted and went hastily into the barn. To his amazement, he found the remnants of the stage coach wheel in pieces. The rim was missing and the spokes were strewn into a pile.<\/p>\n

For a moment, Ben just stood there stunned. \u201cThey wouldn\u2019t… They couldn\u2019t have?…\u201d he thought to himself.<\/p>\n

Once he had time to fully digest what he had discovered, he headed for the ranch house in search of his boys. Deep down he hoped that what he was thinking was not true, but based on sheer evidence there was no doubt in his mind that somehow his boys were involved.<\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss sat solemnly at the table. It hadn\u2019t taken long for a full confession. Hoss was the first to break down.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa… I\u2019m sorry… I just wanted to help the foal… please forgive me.\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy burst into tears and Ben turned his eyes toward his eldest.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa… I\u2019m the one who took the horses, not Hoss. I\u2019m old enough to know better and I know I will be punished for what I did.\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy stoically stood his ground. Ben could tell that inwardly, though, the boy was fighting back tears.<\/p>\n

He looked at his two sons for quite some time. There was no doubt in his mind that the boys committed their crime with good intentions. Yes, he knew that he would have to punish them, but right now they needed to face up to what they had done.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, you have some explanations and apologies to make to both Mr. Granger and Sheriff Coffee. After we return, we\u2019ll discuss your punishment.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s voice was so stern that it sent shivers down both boys\u2019 spines.<\/p>\n

He arose from the table and gruffly said, \u201cCome along now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben headed out to the barn to get the horses. Hoss and Adam slowly followed, heads hung and tears building in their eyes.<\/p>\n

It was long afternoon at the Granger\u2019s. Both boys explained how they had taken the animals and their reasons for doing so. They apologized sincerely to both Mr. Granger and Sheriff Coffee and then were briskly escorted home.<\/p>\n

That night, Adam and Hoss lay in their beds, both in a somber mood. Their father had been harsh, but as always… fair. The day was over, but both boys\u2019 minds were still not at rest. They wondered how the foal was doing and whether Mr. Granger had made his decision.<\/p>\n

Their thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on the door. Ben Cartwright entered and walked over to Adam\u2019s bed, taking a seat. He patted the mattress on both sides of his body, indicating he wanted his two sons to sit by him. They complied.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, I know it\u2019s been a long day… for all of us. But, I have something to say to you that\u2019s very important. I want you to just listen and not interrupt.\u201d Both boys solemnly nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cMost actions start out as good intentions or plans, but in many cases our good intentions turn to mistakes. They turn to mistakes because we don\u2019t take the time to thoroughly stop to think about all the consequences. When you wanted to help that foal, you thought of only one thing… saving its life. You didn\u2019t think about what that foal would have to endure itself to live. You didn\u2019t think about the hours of pain it would have to face with its leg tightly bound and unable to move freely. You thought only of giving it a chance to live.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben paused to monitor his boys\u2019 reactions. He could tell his words were taking effect by the tears welling in their eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou made a mistake…just a mistake, for which you have been punished and forgiven. But I don\u2019t want you to think for one moment that you sinned… for a sin comes only from wrong intentions. Boys, It is not a sin to want any of God\u2019s creatures to have a chance at life. I want you to always remember that.\u201d<\/p>\n

With his words being said, Ben then kissed both boys on the forehead and tucked them into bed. Hoss and Adam fell quickly to sleep knowing that their Pa had truly forgiven them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A few more weeks past and nothing more was said about the foal. Both Adam and Hoss wanted to know the outcome, but dared not mention it to their Pa. If truth be known, Ben didn\u2019t know anything about the foal\u2019s fate. He had been busy running the ranch of late and hadn\u2019t found time to stop by and check in with the Grangers. He wasn\u2019t surprised, however, when one day Dave Granger showed up at the ranch.<\/p>\n

Ben walked out of the barn to greet his friend. Mr. Granger tied Gretchen up to the post and scanned the yard. \u201cThe boy\u2019s home?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n

Ben nodded and replied, \u201cLet\u2019s just say they\u2019ve been spending some time in their rooms as of late. I\u2019ll go fetch them if you like.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like that. I need to talk to both of them about the foal.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s face took on a look of concern. \u201cI\u2019m not sure if that would be a good idea…\u201d<\/p>\n

Mr. Granger patted his friend\u2019s shoulder. \u201cBen, trust me on this. I think there is something left to be said.\u201d<\/p>\n

Although it was against his better judgment, he did as Mr. Granger asked and retrieved his two sons from the house.<\/p>\n

When Adam and Hoss saw Mr. Granger they approached with their heads hung low.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Boys.\u201d Mr. Granger tried to greet them in a friendly nature. But, he only received a mumbled \u201cHi, sir,\u201d in return.<\/p>\n

Mr. Granger took in a deep breath and with no expression said, \u201cWell, boys, I wanted to tell you about the foal.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss squirmed a little at the mention of the animal. Ben could see his boys struggling.<\/p>\n

\u201cDave, I just don\u2019t think…\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHARVEY!\u201d Ben\u2019s sentence was cut short as Mr. Granger\u2019s voice bellowed for his trusty ranchhand.<\/p>\n

Soon after, Harvey appeared from around the barn, with something in tow. Hoss and Adam\u2019s eyes just about popped out of their heads at the sight of the beautiful black and white foal.<\/p>\n

Mr. Granger\u2019s face lit up and he let out a deep chuckle. He turned towards Ben and said, \u201cYour boy there sure has a knack with animals, Ben. That brace done did the trick. Old Levitz said that leg is just about back to normal.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked down at his sons who were beaming from ear to ear. His heart was so full of pride that he was about to bust.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr Granger,\u201d Adam suddenly found his voice. \u201cMay we pet it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, of course, boy. Go right ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam rushed over immediately to the animal. Hoss remained by his father, just staring.<\/p>\n

Ben turned to his son, \u201cHoss, don\u2019t you want to pet the foal?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n

Hoss did not acknowledge his father and instead turned towards Mr. Granger. \u201cMr. Granger… sir. Have you given it a name?\u201d he carefully asked.<\/p>\n

Ben and Mr. Granger exchanged glances. \u201cWell, no son. I haven\u2019t. Do you have something in mind?\u201d Hoss smiled a broad gapped-tooth grin and nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to name him Chance… if\u2019n that be all right with you,\u201d he softly stated.<\/p>\n

Mr. Granger rubbed his chin as he pretended to think on the idea for a while. Hoss watched in anticipation. Finally the man decided he had kept the suspense up long enough. \u201cChance it is then boy… Chance it is.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss instantly threw his arms around the man, giving him a rather surprising bear hug, and then ran eagerly to join his brother.<\/p>\n

Both Ben and Mr. Granger shared a laugh and then walked casually over to join the two boys. It was a happy ending for everyone and for that they were all truly thankful.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 A young Hoss finds out that he has a talent for nursing animals back to health. In fact, he\u2019s been so successful at it that he thinks he can cure any and all creatures. This leads to trouble for the Cartwright brothers.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (6,240 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":375,"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_hide_featured_image":false,"_jetpack_featured_image_duplicate_dismissed":0,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23,1008,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12018","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-prequels","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-30-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/coming-soon-5.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12018","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=12018"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12018\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/375"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12018"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12018"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12018"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}