Summary:\u00a0 Hoss surprises the family by coming home with a wife. Only one problem…her brother wants her inheritance bad enough to kill.<\/p>\n
Rating:\u00a0 K+\u00a0 (22,200 words) <\/p>\n I do NOT own Bonanza nor any of the original Cartwright characters.<\/p>\n I have a request for another story centered on Hoss. Actually, the request was a bit more specific than that only if I say what it was I’ll be giving too much away.<\/p>\n I will forewarn everyone there MAY<\/em> be a MAJOR character death-depends on if the character wins or not.<\/p>\n NOTE: “The Only Daughter” (1838) [Words – anonymous] The Symphonies, Accompaniments and alterations in the Melody by E. IVES, Junr. New York: Firth & Hall, 1 Franklin Square Plate No. 1158 [Source: 122\/081Levy]<\/p>\n His Legacy<\/strong><\/p>\n Chapter One<\/strong><\/p>\n Opening Scene<\/strong><\/p>\n Ben, Adam and Little Joe waited for the stagecoach to arrive. All had been surprised beyond measure to receive Hoss’s telegram. He’d gone to Placerville a mere two weeks ago to help a friend and then sent word he was bringing home a surprise.<\/p>\n “Stage is comin’.”” Little Joe stepped away from wall of the building he’d been leaning against. He was eager to see just what surprise his brother had been talking about. Who knows maybe he was bringing home something for him.<\/p>\n “Reckon we’ll find out what’ going on now.” Adam wasn’t sure whether or not to be nervous. After all, sometimes Hoss’s surprises turned out to be quite interesting, if that was the word to use. He just hoped it wasn’t anything that would cause them any sort of trouble.<\/p>\n Ben said nothing though he was just as curious as his sons were when it came to any ‘surprises’ Hoss brought home. Guess as long as it didn’t walk on four legs and have fur he’d be okay with it.<\/p>\n Once the stagecoach stopped Hoss opened the door, climbed out then held helped a young girl out. She had dishwater blonde hair which was pulled back and done up in a French braid. If they were to guess they’d have her at a mere sixteen or seventeen. The fact that her eyes were void of sight was made crystal clear when Hoss and she turned to face his family.<\/p>\n “Hi pa, Adam, Little Joe,” Hoss was uncomfortable as he shifted his weight and stuck his left hand in his pocket; did they have to look at him like some child who had their hand stuck in the cookie jar, “meet Eliza Marie McBrian\u2026Cartwright. My wife.”<\/p>\n Scene One<\/strong><\/p>\n “Yer pa and brothers hardly spoke a word home,” Eliza ran her hands over the furniture that set in the room Hoss informed her was both of theirs now, “I don’t think they like the fact that ya brought someone like me back with ya.”<\/p>\n Hoss hurried to correct the mistaken impression, “There is nothin’ wrong with ya. They don’t care that yer blind. I\u2026we didn’t exactly give ’em much notice though. Let ’em get used to the idea.”<\/p>\n Eliza sat down on the edge of the bed, “Ya gonna tell ’em everythin’ or just bits and pieces?” It’s not that she wanted him to be dishonest with anyone, she just wanted to know so she didn’t mess up and say anything Hoss didn’t want told.<\/p>\n Hoss didn’t have to guess why she was asking ‘such a thing’. He pretty well knew, “No reason to worry yer perty little head ’bout havin’ to hide anythin’. I’ll talk to my pa and tell him everythin’. Give him and my brothers a chance though.”<\/p>\n Giving them a chance wasn’t a problem. There was only one thing that she could think of that could possibly be one. “What ya gonna do if’n my brother does show up? He twern’t happy when he found out pa had actually agreed to lettin’ ya take me.” Eliza didn’t like the way her brother had turned out. He used to be such a nice person.<\/p>\n “We’ll deal with that if needs be,” Hoss took a hold of her hands and pulled her up and into his arms, “you jist know this is yer home now. I ain’t lied to ya yet or done anythin’ I wasn’t supposed to. Remember that.”<\/p>\n A smile a mile wide spread across her face. Hoss Cartwright had been nothing but good, kind and honest since she first met him, “I’ll do just that.”<\/p>\n 0000<\/p>\n “He’s gone and lost it!” Little Joe sat at the table still a bit bewildered that Hoss had went and got married, “He barely knows the gal!”<\/p>\n Adam shook his head, “Tell us something we don’t know but fact is fact. They’re married and he’s our brother,” he turned and looked at his pa. The man had his chin resting in the palm of both his hands and he had a faraway look in his eyes, “Pa?”<\/p>\n “Sorry, I was lost in thought,” Ben sat back and put his hands down, “Adam’s right. We need to support Hoss and welcome Eliza into the family,” he stood up, “I’m going to talk to them about having a party here and then we can discuss the building of a house for them. I’m sure they won’t want to live with us on a long term basis.”<\/p>\n After he had disappeared up the stairs, Little Joe looked at Adam, “I’ll support him, I’ll do my best to make her feel welcome only I still say he’s gone and lost it. I hope he doesn’t wind up regretting it.”<\/p>\n Chapter Two<\/strong><\/p>\n Scene Two<\/strong><\/p>\n “You out did yourself, Hop Sing,” Ben spoke as their cook set the rest of lunch on the table, “The meal is fit for a king.”<\/p>\n “Miss Eliza big help in kitchen, nice and polite too. You do good, Mis’er Hoss.” the china man smiled at Hoss then hurried back into the kitchen.<\/p>\n His brothers weren’t saying anything but Hoss could tell by the looks they kept sending his way they wanted details. He couldn’t blame them; still, he needed to talk to his pa first. Of course, the question was…when would he do that?<\/p>\n Hoss put his utensils down and stood up, “I have to get a few things done before that party starts. If you’ll excuse me.” He headed out the door. Adam, Little Joe and Ben watched as he left. Something was not right. For someone who had just gotten married he looked more nervous than a cornered jackrabbit.<\/p>\n “He’s right. Folks are going be arriving in a few hours,” Ben put down his fork and looked at Adam and Joe, “I suggest the two of you finish up with your own things and,” he looked from his oldest son to his youngest one, “Don’t bother your brother. He will talk when he’s ready.”<\/p>\n “Yes, pa.” Adam and Little Joe finished eating then went about their business.<\/p>\n 000<\/p>\n Ben was at his desk finishing up some paperwork when Eliza finished cleaning up the dining room and walked over. When she stopped by his desk Ben looked up from what he was doing. “May I help you?” He couldn’t help grow more concerned than he already was, Liza looked as troubled as Hoss had when he left the breakfast table.<\/p>\n “I was hoping I could have a word with you, Mr. Cartwright.” Eliza spoke as politely as she knew how. After all, the man was Hoss’s father and her father in law. She had no desire to show any disrespect towards the man; especially since he and his other sons had had the rug pulled out from under them.<\/p>\n “Of course you may,” Ben stood up and pulled a chair over for Eliza to sit on, then sat back down himself. “What can I do for you?”<\/p>\n Still remembering the awkward silence on the way to the Ponderosa Eliza sighed, “Believe me when I say I would never intentionally do anything to hurt Hoss. And, no matter what that brother of mine may say,” the bitterness she felt towards David spilled out in her voice, “While I am ‘only seventeen’ Hoss is NOT too old for me. Good grief; he’s only seven years older than I am. Okay, seven and a half, if you want to get right down to the last day.”<\/p>\n “How many brothers and sisters do you have?” Ben asked. Hoss may not be ready to talk but he could still find a few things out for himself.<\/p>\n “I had four brothers but the oldest, Paul, died when he was little. James and Tyler both live in California and David kicks around\u2014when he’s not in jail. One of these days they may put him in for good. I have no sisters.”<\/p>\n “How do your parents feel about the marriage?” Ben leaned forward a bit.<\/p>\n Eliza bit her lip then answered softly, “Ma cin’t rightly argue with it. She died when I was only two and, since pa never remarried, I don’t have a stepmother to fight it. Pa gave his consent. If he didn’t believe me, I wouldn’t be here.”<\/p>\n The sincerity in her voice told Ben she spoke the truth, “Don’t worry. I believe you. Reckon, we best be getting ready. Folks will be arriving soon.” Eliza relaxed as she hurried to her bedroom. A reception was going to be nice to have.<\/p>\n Scene Three<\/strong><\/p>\n One by one people arrived. Little Joe, Adam or Hop Sing took their coats and hats. Hoss stood next to Eliza and their pa visiting their guests.<\/p>\n “You sure know how to shock folks,” Roy walked up and teased Hoss. Of course that only served to get Hoss grinning sheepishly, “ya didn’t even give people a little hint this was comin’.” He then looked on Eliza, “Congratulations miss only,” Roy grinned, “How did an ugly thing like him catch a beauty like you.”<\/p>\n Eliza’s head knew the man was only joking still she found herself being defensive of Hoss. She would freely admit he may not be ‘the best looking’ when it came to the views of the world but he had something inside him that was hard to find in a lot of people. She slipped her arm around Hoss’s waist and shocked him by answering Roy quite firmly, “I would appreciate it if you would not<\/em><\/strong> refer to my husband as ugly. He’s the best looking one here.”<\/p>\n Ben started grinning as Hoss actually blushed and Roy quickly turned off the sarcasm; when it came to Hoss anyway. While Ben still got the strongest impression there was more to his son’s marriage than what met the eye; it helped ease his mind to also see how strongly the young lady stood by him.<\/p>\n “Let’s have some music!” Jack, one of Adam’s friend’s, handed him his guitar.<\/p>\n “What do you want?” Adam looked at Hoss.<\/p>\n Hoss looked at Eliza and inwardly sighed; on the outside though he put on a smile and answered, “Ya may not consider it a weddin’ song,” he looked at Adam and the others, “but would ya please sing and play ‘The Only Daughter’?”<\/p>\n Adam shrugged; Hoss was right. In his opinin that was not a song to be played at a wedding reception; still, he started playing and singing,<\/p>\n ” Down in the valley my father dwells,<\/em><\/p>\n See! yonder my brother is leaning;<\/em> All that our garden produces, he sells,<\/em> And I help him a little by gleaning.<\/em><\/p>\n I haste away, at break of day,<\/em> My basket to fill by the water;<\/em> And I earn what I can, for my father poor man,<\/em> For I am his only daughter,<\/em> For I am his only daughter.<\/em><\/p>\n Ladies have offer’d me places, three,<\/em> And bid me to choose which I’d rather;<\/em> But this Brief answer they get from me<\/em> “Dear ma’am, only think of my father!”<\/em> What would he do, were Jane with you,<\/em> Forgetting the duty he taught her,<\/em> O how would he grieve, the Cot should I leave!<\/em> For I am his only daughter,<\/em> For I am his only daughter.<\/em><\/p>\n William, who bought with the fields below<\/em> The three pretty cows of old Mary<\/em> Shortly will want, (for he told me so,)<\/em> A wife to take care of his dairy;<\/em> He lives so near, my father dear<\/em> (‘Tis only just over the water)<\/em> Should he bid me go, sure, I could not say No<\/em> Though I am an only daughter,<\/em> Though I am an only daughter.<\/em><\/p>\n While Adam sang Hoss took Eliza and danced with her. Ben stood listening to the song and watching Hoss. Why had he picked such a song to be sung at the celebration of his marriage?<\/p>\n Hoss continued dancing with his bride. He didn’t know whether or not his father, or anyone else, would catch the hint the song held. He didn’t really care either. He’d face telling his father everything…tomorrow.<\/p>\n Chapter Three<\/strong><\/p>\n Scene Four<\/strong><\/p>\n The sun light broke through the bedroom window and sent its yellow rays dancing across the couple’s bed. Hoss opened his eyes and turned his head slightly. He couldn’t help but smile. Eliza was sleeping in the crook of his arm, her head against his shoulder and her arm across his chest. He didn’t want to move, least he wake her; only he had to.<\/p>\n He moved as careful as he could only she still opened her eyes, ran her fingers over his face and smiled. Her smile lit up her face, “Morning came to early.”<\/p>\n Hoss chuckled, “Ya, reckon mornings have a way of doin’ that; especiall’ when two people are up later than they should be.” Of course, he didn’t think anyone would be surprised either.<\/p>\n “Yer gonna talk to yer pa this mornin’ aint ya?” she sat up as Hoss climbed out of bed and started dressing. She didn’t ask the question in a tone that said ‘why are you doing this’ but in more of a ‘wish you had something different to tell him.”<\/p>\n “Gotta, I put it off long enough.” Hoss threw on his shirt and finished dressing for the day, “Well, I reckon I could leave it ta ya to explain things.”<\/p>\n He started laughing when Eliza shook her head hard as she began to dress for the day, “No thanks, I’m worse than my pet chickens back home.”<\/p>\n He roared with laughter. He knew that, for the most part, that was not true. He’d seen her courage and fortitude first hand; still, he knew full well where she was coming from.<\/p>\n After zippering her dress for her the two headed downstairs.<\/p>\n Ben, Adam and Little Joe had just set down at the table when Hoss and Eliza came down the stairs. “Looks like the sleepyheads finally woke up.” Little Joe teased as they approached the table. That only served to make Eliza blush and Hoss jokingly glare at his baby brother.<\/p>\n “Let’s not worry about it this morning,” Ben smiled, “you’re entitled to sleep in\u2026one morning.” He was grinning from ear to ear and trying not to chuckle at his son’s obvious embarrassment. At that moment Hop Sing came out of the kitchen carrying a couple more plates.<\/p>\n “Food gonna get cold. You eat.” Hop Sing too was smiling at the newlyweds.<\/p>\n “I’m sorry, Hop Sing,” Eliza was more than embarrassed, “I shoulda been up helpin’ ya.”<\/p>\n “No worry, Miss ‘liza, you fine. Now eat.” Hop Sing said as she sat down.<\/p>\n “Son?” Ben’s eye brows turned down as Hoss remained standing.<\/p>\n He wanted to eat but he needed to get ‘it’ over with too. Ben, Adam and Little Joe about dropped their forks when Hoss answered, “Breakfast can wait,” he paused as he saw the shocked looks on their faces. If it wasn’t for what was on his mind he would have laughed at the sight, “May I see ya outside, pa?”<\/p>\n If Hoss was turning down breakfast then his own could wait, “Tell Hop Sing we’ll be back later.” Ben looked at Adam as he stood up and followed Hoss outside. Eliza started eating hoping her brother in laws would not ask her any questions. They didn’t.<\/p>\n 000<\/p>\n Hoss was leaning up against the pillar of their home when Ben walked out. The solemn look that was on his face spoke volumes. “Do we need to be sitting?” Ben asked and pointed towards the table that set on the porch.<\/p>\n “Might not be a bad idea if’n ya do,” Hoss shrugged his shoulders, “this is gonna take a bit.”<\/p>\n Ben was not surprised to hear that as he pulled out the chair and sat down; Hoss remained standing.<\/p>\n “Da ya like Eliza?” Hoss knew it was a lame question; still he asked it.<\/p>\n Ben nodded and grinned, “She’s a very polite girl and, from what little I’ve seen, very willing to work.” Thinking on Hoss’s song request the night before Ben added, “I supposed you want to tell me what her father has to do with this marriage?”<\/p>\n Hoss’s eyebrows turned down and he stiffened just a little then relaxed. He shouldn’t be surprised his father had made that connection, “Does Adam and Little Joe figger that too?”<\/p>\n Ben turned the palm of his right hand up and answered, “Adam suspects it but flat out said he was only guessing. Little Joe told him he was crazy. He said just because Eliza was an only daughter herself didn’t mean Adam should be connecting the song to the two of you. From what I heard from others as they left? No one else made the connection.”<\/p>\n Hoss scratched the back of his neck, “well, actually, it was her grandfather that actually started it; along with my assumin’ I knew what he was talkin’ ’bout but \u2026oh heck, it’s a long story. Maybe I should have waited until after breakfast after all.” He said as he rubbed his stomach; it had growled.<\/p>\n Ben laughed, “Let’s go back inside and, once your brothers have left the house, we can talk.”<\/p>\n “What about Hop Sing?” Hoss really wanted no one but his father and, of course, Eliza, to be listening in on their conversation.<\/p>\n Ben stood up, “He’s going to go to Virginia City to visit some friends for a few hours. It will be fine.”<\/p>\n Scene Five<\/strong><\/p>\n “We’ll see ya later.” Little Joe said as he and Adam walked out the door. He glanced towards the window that set near his father’s work area. It was closed.<\/p>\n “So much for working near the window and hoping they will talk there?” Adam laughed as Little Joe scowled.<\/p>\n “I want to know what is goin’ on is all. Why can’t he talk to us and pa?” Little Joe answered as he started chopping away at the wood that needed cutting.<\/p>\n “We will know when we need to know,” Adam said as he headed for the barn, “until then we just keep busy.”<\/p>\n 000<\/p>\n Hoss and Ben remained at the table while Eliza cleared it off. She’d insisted that Hop Sing leave the cleaning up to her as she’d not helped with the cooking that morning.<\/p>\n Ben felt sort of sorry for this son. He looked so nervous. “Will it help if I promise not to bite?” he asked when Hoss had remained quiet for a good five minutes.<\/p>\n That brought a chuckle from his son, “I know ya won’t bite. I jist hope ya will understand\u2026even if ya don’t’ agree and\u2026still accept Eliza.”<\/p>\n Ben leaned back in his chair. He wasn’t going to go from doing his best to make his new daughter in law feel welcome only to disown her\u2026unless, of course, she changed drastically, “You don’t have to worry about that son. Tell me what happened and,” for the first time he voiced another question that had been running around in the back of his mind only to push its way up front, “is there any cause for any of us to be worried now?”<\/p>\n Hoss sighed, “It’s like this\u2026”<\/p>\n 0000<\/p>\n Hoss sat on his horse laughing. He’d just came to a clearing and was watching a young girl chasing and yelling at a baby goat. While she was not using any foul language she was using some very strong words. After watching the scene for a minute or two he took pity on the young lass and dismounted his horse.<\/em><\/p>\n “Come on ya naughty thing!” Hoss headed the kid off and grabbed him. Once he had him he turned to face the stranger. Only then did he realize the young woman was blind.<\/em><\/p>\n “I thank ya kindly sir,” Eliza held out the rope she’d been carrying and, once she’d located the animals neck, secured the rope around it, “every time this ornery thing gets loose I have a dickens of a time catchin’ ‘er. Pa would not be happy if Patty here done run off and someone else found her; ‘specially those Brown boys. They always say the stray animals belong to ’em.”<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss knew the Brown brothers. They’d made trouble for his friend, Hank, before. They’d only stopped when they found out Hank knew how to fight back and fight back hard. “Maybe I best walk ya back to yer place.”<\/em><\/p>\n Eliza smiled, “That’s awfully kind of ya, sir but I don’t know if’n it’s really necessary. I’m perty sure the Browns are out of town right now.”<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss didn’t know about that and he didn’t like the idea of what they might try with the young lady should they get it into their minds to cause trouble. “First off, the name is Hoss, Hoss Cartwright. Actually, first name is Eric but everyone jist calls me Hoss. As fer as walkin’ ya home goes? Maybe it’s not necessary, but unless yer downright dead set against it, I’d jist as soon walk ya home.”<\/em><\/p>\n For a moment Eliza hesitated wondering if her pa and grandfather would get the wrong idea if she let the fellow walk her home. Finally she smiled and gave in; after all, it wasn’t like she was bringing home ‘one of them Brown boys’. “I guess it would be nice to have the company, Hoss.”<\/em><\/p>\n They laughed and talked as they walked the two miles back to the cabin she shared with her grandfather and father. The two men were standing outside their home when they saw Eliza and the stranger accompanying her. “Looks like Eliza found something besides the goat.” William McBain stepped off the porch of his home while his father, known only as Grandfather McBrian to most folks in the area, leaned against the cabin.<\/em><\/p>\n “It’s not one of ’em is it?” Grandfather McBrian, while still as active as ever, was beginning to lose his own eyesight. His worst fear was that one of the Brown boys would take a cotton to Eliza and convince her he really cared.<\/em><\/p>\n “Nope, looks like that fellar that I’ve seen over at ‘Shorty’s’ place from time to time.” Shorty was the nickname that Hoss’s friend had been stuck with fer years. Wonder if he’s heard about what happened.” William answered.<\/em><\/p>\n Once they were in front of the home Eliza told the men what had taken place.<\/em><\/p>\n “I’m indebted to ya, Mister Cartwright,” William shook Hoss’s hand, “My boy was supposed ta fix the place where the goat got out \u2013as my back has been givin’ me fits. Only I guess his whiskey and gamblin’ is more important ta ‘im.” William sighed. He guessed he should be grateful his other two sons had turned out tons better than David. He just wished it was David that had chosen to move far away.<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss could tell just by the way the man was standing he had back problems. “I could fix it befer I head over to my friend, Hank’s place.”<\/em><\/p>\n “Hank? Oh, you mean Shorty!” William stood up straight. The two men must have been friends for a long time if he got away calling him by his real name. Only, if they were such good friends\u2026”Ya came out to see Shorty? I guess ya haven’t heard the latest then?”<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss tensed up and his eyebrows narrowed, “Only thing I know is he needs help. He sent me a telegram a few days ago and asked if I could spare some time.”<\/em><\/p>\n “He was kilt when his horse got spooked and threw him. Most folks say it was just an animal going by but I think it was one of them Brown boys. They wanted his land and he wouldn’t sell. Now, ya wait and see. They’ll started houndin’ us next.” Grandfather McBain was never known for being afraid of what he thought. Right or wrong? He spoke his piece.<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss was shocked. Hank was dead? “If’n it was them they’ll be mighty disappointed. I know fer a fact Hank had tons of relatives and his will left that land to all of them. If there is even a shadow of doubt as to how he died? They won’t sell. If’n ya don’t mind I’d like to visit his grave first then my offer is still open. I’ll be more than happy to mend that fence fer ya.” He didn’t like the idea of the young lady having to go chasing it again\u2026and meeting up with the Browns.<\/em><\/p>\n “Did the Brown’s have anything to do with Hank’s death?” Ben sat back in his chair-as he’d been surprised to realize he was practically on the edge of it.<\/p>\n “Despite what Eliza’s grandfather said I found most everyone thinks so but they can’t prove it. Just like I said though, his family is refusing to sell.”<\/p>\n “You know, as much as I want to hear the rest of this I need<\/em><\/strong> to know this much up front. Do<\/em><\/strong> we need to worry about anything?”<\/p>\n Hoss nodded and answered in disgust, “That brother of hers, the one that is no good, might show up and cause trouble. He ain’t happy with this marriage. He is insisting I’m only after his sister’s inheritance. Truth of the matter is it’s the other way around. He’s the one after it!”<\/p>\n “Her inheritance? Folks living on the outskirts of Placerville aren’t wealthy.” Ben was confused.<\/p>\n Hoss shook his head, “I told ya it was a long story. I wanted to explain things so you’ll understand why I married a gal I’ve known less than two weeks only,” he sighed, “maybe I shouldn’t say another word until I kind figger a way out to shorten it up. After all, like I said, David may still show up and cause everyone a lot of grief.”<\/p>\n While Ben did not like the idea of that happening? If did, he would like to know beforehand why it was happening. “I don’t care if you have to talk all day and into the night son. I want to hear everything.”<\/p>\n Chapter Four <\/strong><\/p>\n A\/N When Eliza talks about the ‘old country’? You can put that wherever you wish. There are a number of places that share customs similar to each other. (Though the exact terminology is something I’ve taken writer’s liberty with).<\/strong><\/p>\n Scene Six<\/strong><\/p>\n Ben and Hoss had moved to the front room to continue talking. Ben sat in ‘his’ chair while Hoss sat next to Eliza; whom Hoss had insisted join them.<\/p>\n 000<\/p>\n The road to the Placerville graveyard was dustier than some of the run down neglected cabins Hoss had come across on more than one trip away from the Ponderosa. Grandfather McBain had insisted he take their buggy and, saying he was afraid ‘the Browns would come and cause trouble’, had asked Hoss if his granddaughter could be the one to show him exactly where Hank aka ‘Shorty’ lay. Hoss had agreed for the mere fact that the man was older than dirt and her father’s back<\/em> was<\/em><\/strong> bad.<\/em><\/p>\n For a while they traveled in silence just enjoying the sound of an occasional bird or the sight of a wandering animal. Finally Eliza began speaking, “I thank ya for not arguin’ with grandpa but I think ya best be careful ’round him.’<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss was taken back. Be careful? The old man seemed friendly and polite enough. “Why?” he asked feeling somewhat nervous that maybe the old man may not be what he appeared to be.<\/em><\/p>\n “He means well, Hoss, only he hasn’t lived here in America that long. That, along with the fact that he’s starting to confuse things a bit? Well, he sometimes forgets the customs here are not the same as the old country. He’s also started getting ideas ’bout me. Figgers he owes it to me as he still blames himself and pa for my blindness. I’ve told him a dozen times not to do that only he still does.”<\/em><\/p>\n While Hoss was curious to what ideas her grandfather had about her he was even more curious about how she’d come to be blind. Sometimes what one neglects to ask questions about turns out to be the very thing they should have asked about in the first place. As it was Hoss slowed the buggy down and asked, “What happened? I mean, why does he blame himself and yer pa for yer condition?”<\/em><\/p>\n “They forgot to tell me their friends had asked to store some nitro\u2026something, any way that stuff that explodes very easily and can do a lot of damage?” She turned her head slightly towards him as she spoke.<\/em><\/p>\n Inwardly Hoss cringed but only answered, “Ya, I know of the stuff. It’s called<\/em> Nitroglycerin.”<\/em><\/p>\n “Oh, I knew it was somethin’ like that,” Eliza went onto explain, “Grandfather and pa told them they could put it out back in our big shed and I went in there not knowin’ that. ‘Course, if’n I hadn’t had ole’ George and Lucy with me the accident prob’bly never woulda happened. As it the two of them got mad at each other and started chasin’ each other and\u2026well, ya get the picture.”<\/em><\/p>\n “I would if I knew who George and Lucy were.” Hoss said though he had a pretty good idea already.<\/em><\/p>\n Eliza laughed, “Sorry, guess I got ahead of myself agin. Pa’s always sayin’ I have a bad habit of doin’ that. Lucy was my cat at the time and George was David’s cat, though he never took care of him. The poor critter would have starved to death if’n I didn’t feed it.”<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss started grinning, “Ya like critters huh?”<\/em><\/p>\n “Oh yea, ‘nough to drive my pa crazy at times. His words are always the same ‘Why does ya always have to be bringin’ critters of all shapes and sizes home? Ain’t this place full enough as it is!'” Eliza laughed, “He says the words but he don’t mean them. Why, half the time HE’S the one savin’ them!”<\/em><\/p>\n By the time the two had finished talking about all the animals each other had driven their families crazy with they had arrived at the graveyard. It didn’t take Eliza but a few moments to guide Hoss to where his friend lay.<\/em><\/p>\n “If’n grandfather is right,” Eliza said as Hoss knelt down by his friend’s grave, “those Brown boys will get what’s comin’ someday. Maybe not as fast as we’d like only they’ll get it!”<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss sure hoped so. After all, Hank had been one of the finest.<\/em><\/p>\n Scene Seven<\/strong><\/p>\n Hoss almost cursed as he hit his thumb with the hammer the McBains had let him use. He’d finished with the broken part of the fence then noticed a few other things that needed fixing too. Figuring it was a good way to work out some of the feelings he had towards Hank ‘accidental death’, he’d asked the McBains if they wanted his help ‘on those things’ too. They’d readily accepted.<\/em><\/p>\n “I’d be careful, young man, that hammer is known to have a mind of its own.” Eliza’s grandfather made his way over to where Hoss was working.<\/em><\/p>\n “So, I noticed.” Hoss grinned as he rubbed his sore thumb.<\/em><\/p>\n “I wanted to thank you for taking my granddaughter with you. I reckon my son told you one of those Brown boys did come by here while you were gone?” He asked the question hoping to hear an affirmative answer. He didn’t get one.<\/em><\/p>\n “No, sir. He didn’t,” Hoss grew concerned, “What did he do and say?”<\/em><\/p>\n The old man sighed, “Not much but they are definitely looking at this land. It makes me afraid for Eliza.”<\/em><\/p>\n “Well,” Hoss started hammering again, “I told my pa and brothers I’d be gone for at least a couple of weeks. I could stick around and help fix up other things for ya and see if I can find out what those Brown boys are up ta if ya want me to.”<\/em><\/p>\n “Yer willin’ to stay and help? For that long?” the old man was impressed.<\/em><\/p>\n “Why not? The three of ya need help.”<\/em><\/p>\n “Where I come from not everyone is willing to protect someone like Eliza. After all\u2026she can’t see.” The guilt the old man still felt could be heard in his voice.<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss’s eyebrows narrowed, “Why should that make any difference. She’s just as much part of the human race as you and I are.”<\/em><\/p>\n “I and my family know it but there are those out there do not. Tell me, it is one thing to offer to protect someone like Eliza but would you ever consider actually giving her your protection? It’s not like she has hopes of getting her eyesight back.” The old man eyed him closely.<\/em><\/p>\n Give her his protection? Hadn’t he just offered that? And why on earth should it matter whether or not she ever got her eyesight back? Hoss figured the old man was indeed slipping a little and was just repeating himself\u2026only rearranging the words. “Like I just said, I don’t see why not. She’s just as important as anyone else.”<\/em><\/p>\n Before either one could speak another word Eliza came out of the house carrying a lunch basket.<\/em><\/p>\n “Looks like the cook is bringing lunch out.” The old man smiled as he walked away. Since he walked away with a grin wider than his waist line Hoss couldn’t help but wonder what he’d said to make the man so happy.<\/em><\/p>\n Eliza noticed it to but thought nothing of it. That is, due to not hearing the conversation, she was only grateful that the man called Hoss Cartwright was helping them out as it lessened her grandfather’s worries.<\/em><\/p>\n “Here’s some food for ya. I hope I cooked enough.” Eliza handed him the basket full of food.<\/em><\/p>\n Opening it up Hoss was delighted to see it filled with sandwiches, apples and a couple of oranges. “Thanks, it all looks like it’s gonna be awfully good.”<\/em><\/p>\n “From the way Grandfather McBain talked I thought the two of ya were gonna be eatin’ together. That’s why I brought so much out. The two of you together keep a girl busy in the kitchen,” Eliza smiled, “mind ya. I’m not a complainin’ any. It’s kinda nice to have more than my grandfather and pa to cook fer.”<\/em><\/p>\n “Don’t go tellin’ Hop Sing I said this,” Hoss smiled at Eliza and then looked at Ben, “but I never thought I’d meet anyone who cooks as well as he does.”<\/p>\n Ben was laughing hard when Adam and Little Joe walked in. “What’s so funny?”<\/p>\n Before any of them could answer Hop Sing walked in the door. “We’ll tell ya ’bout it later.” Hoss said as Eliza stood up and went to help Hop Sing. “I have to step outside, pa. I reckon we can keep talkin’ after I get back.”<\/p>\n Little Joe’s eyebrows turned up at Hoss as he went outside then turned back to his father, “The two of you have been talkin’ for a couple of hours. How much time does he need?”<\/p>\n Ben stood up, “It doesn’t matter. For right now tell everyone to keep an eye out for a young gentleman who might show up either here on the Ponderosa or Virginia City. He’s twenty-two, has dark brown hair, brown eyes and is ten times thinner than Adam. He’s Eliza’s brother. His name is David and he’s no good.”<\/p>\n Chapter Five<\/strong><\/p>\n Scene Eight<\/strong><\/p>\n Scene Nine<\/strong><\/p>\n Eliza laughed as she listened to Hoss trying to ‘talk some sense into that stubborn thing’. “Miss Scrooge don’t cotton to strangers none.” Miss Scrooge was the new name she’d given their aging milk cow. Hoss had hurt his sides roaring with laughter when she’d informed him ‘I gave her that name ’cause she’s gone and gotten stingy with her milk!’.<\/em><\/p>\n “I think yer pa’s gonna have to give in and get a new milk cow.” Hoss shook his head and he carried out the bucket that held what little milk the cow would give.<\/em><\/p>\n “The good sheriff knows of one we could get but it cost more than we can afford.” Eliza knew her father would come unglued if he knew she ‘sayin’ things like that’ only what was she doing wrong? She was only telling the truth!<\/em><\/p>\n “Whose has the milk cow for sale?” Hoss asked as he sat down next to Eliza.<\/em><\/p>\n “A Mister Bronson on the other side of Placerville. Supposed ta be a real nice fellar but ain’t a man alive that I know of that can make a livin’ if’n he gives everythin’ fer free or close to it.” She answered.<\/em><\/p>\n “A Kurtis Bronson?” Hoss asked hoping he was right.<\/em><\/p>\n “Yea, why? Ya know the fellar?” Eliza was amazed at how many folks Hoss seemed to know.<\/em><\/p>\n “So happens I do. He has done business in Virginia City a number of times.” Hoss stood up, “How would ya like to come on a ride with me?” He didn’t think anything of asking her. After all, he enjoyed her company and her grandfather was always asking him to watch over her, protect her or asking him if he was sure he’d be willing to give her his protection if necessary. Though, he had to admit-he couldn’t see the difference only he wasn’t going to fight the old man about it. After all, he was probably just a bit confused like Eliza had already pointed out.<\/em><\/p>\n “I would like that very much only,” she hesitated, “I’d best ask pa or Grandfather McBain. They won’t like if if’n I jist up and disappear on them.” She didn’t want either one to get the scare of their lives.<\/em><\/p>\n “I’ll wait fer.” Hoss headed for the horses.<\/em><\/p>\n 0000<\/em><\/p>\n The wind whipped through air and would have sent Eliza’s hair flying\u2026had she not done it up in a bun that morning. Hoss found himself drawn to the young woman but scolded himself. ‘If’n I heard right she doesn’t even turn 17 for another couple of days.’<\/em><\/p>\n Trying to get his mind off of her he started talking about his pa and brothers; after all, she had asked about them a few hours ago but had been pulled away by her father before he could answer.<\/em><\/p>\n “Yer pa sounds like a wise man,” Eliza smiled as she drew a picture of the man Hoss had just finished describing as his pa in her head, “Too bad about yer mothers though. Life sure ain’t fair sometimes.”<\/em><\/p>\n “No, it ain’t.” Hoss agreed then went on to tell her all about his two brothers. So much so she found herself wishing she could meet them. It would make up for being stuck with David as a brother.<\/em><\/p>\n Once they arrived at Mr. Bronson’s Hoss helped Eliza off her horse. Due to all the items the man had strewn from one end of his place to another Hoss took a hold of Eliza’s hand and guided her through the maze. “I would think a man would keep his place better than this.” Hoss observed aloud.<\/em><\/p>\n Eliza was surprised to find herself grateful the man did not do just that. If he had she’d never had gotten to hold Hoss’s hand. She found herself giving herself a little lecture ‘Girl, ya’d best keep that thought to yerself. He’ll never speak to ya again if’n he thinks yer somethin’ yer not’. Soon they were knocking on the door and talking to one Mr. Bronson.<\/em><\/p>\n Scene Ten<\/strong><\/p>\n “Oh quit it, David! How old are ya anyway!” Eliza was not happy when her brother showed back up at the house. It had been so peaceful with him gone.<\/em><\/p>\n “Pa didn’t have to go get a total stranger to fix the place up! I would have done it sooner or later.”<\/em><\/p>\n “More like never. Yer too busy stayin’ away, getting’ drunk or tryin’ to get rich.” Eliza knew it may not be polite talking to her own brother that way only it was the truth and he needed to hear it.<\/em><\/p>\n She was shocked beyond measure when he actually went off and slapped her across the face. However, before she could say another word Hoss appeared ‘out of nowhere’ (actually, he’d been around the corner of the house ever since David had rode up) and had the man up against the house\u2026using only his right hand!<\/em><\/p>\n “”Don’t ya ever lay a hand on yer sister like that agin! If’n ya do \u2026and I’m around ya’ll wind up needin’ a doctor!” Hoss’s eyes spit fire and his voice held steel in it.<\/em><\/p>\n Some people have fried eggs for brains; David was one of them, “What yer defendin’ her fer! She’s jist a blind girl!”<\/em><\/p>\n That did it Hoss, set her brother down-making sure he was facing away from the house first- then let go of the man’s shirt and hit his chin with a doubled up fist. That sent the man flying. When the other McBain men hurried out of the house to see what was going on Eliza quickly gave them all the facts. She didn’t want David lying to them.<\/em><\/p>\n Mr. McBrian was furious, “Get off this land, now! Any man hittin’ a woman ain’t no kin of mine!”<\/em><\/p>\n David’s face registered shock. His father had threatened to disown him before but he’d never thrown him off their land. “This is my home too. I ain’t leavin’!”<\/em><\/p>\n “Get off, now! I’ll kill ya if ya don’t!” Mr. McBain threw into a rage; a rage bad enough to scare David into running but not before he shot a hateful glare at the small group before him.<\/em><\/p>\n 0000<\/strong><\/p>\n Ben found himself yawning.<\/p>\n “Sorry, pa,” Hoss had not realized how late it was getting.<\/p>\n “It’s fine only, I know I said I didn’t care whether or not you talked into the night, son, only,” he shrugged his shoulders, “Maybe we should wait until tomorrow.”<\/p>\n Hoss might have asked to be allowed to finish only Eliza put her hand on his upper arm, “It can wait, can’t it?”<\/p>\n “Reckon it kin.” Hoss stood up; as did the others. Soon they were all in their various rooms sleeping; well, all except Hoss and Eliza.<\/p>\n “What’s wrong, Eliza?” Hoss sat up when Eliza didn’t lay down.<\/p>\n “I’m just thinkin’. I know yer family has to be told everythin’, I just hate the idea of hearin’ it all over agin.”<\/p>\n “Even the part where we said ‘I do’?” Hoss knew that wasn’t the case\u2026he was only tryin’ to get her to see the sunny side.<\/p>\n Eliza practically threw herself into his waiting arms, “Oh no, that part I could relive a thousand times over.”<\/p>\n “Me too.” Hoss pulled her to him. He might argue with the sun when it came though his window the next day but, for now he was flat out hungry. It was a meal that Eliza was more than willing to share with him.<\/p>\n Chapter Six<\/strong><\/p>\n Scene Ten<\/strong><\/p>\n Adam and Little Joe had just started to get up from the breakfast table when Hoss stopped them. He looked at his father, “I’ve been doin’ a lot of thinkin’ and, if’n ya would, explain to ’em a short version of what I have told ya so far. I mean, I really think trouble will be headin’ our way and they might as well know what’s goin’ on too.”<\/p>\n ”bout time’ Little Joe thought as he and Adam sat back down. After filling them in Ben quit speaking and waited for Hoss. Hoss looked at Eliza. While her face showed no emotion she had moved her hand over and placed it on top of his. The slight pressure that he felt spoke volumes. He turned his attention back to his pa and brothers.<\/p>\n “As I said befer David didnt’ ‘xactly take to my defendin’ Eliza here nor to bein’ disowned and thrown off his grandfather and father’s place very well…”<\/p>\n 00000<\/p>\n The breeze blew through the air as Eliza and Hoss ate their lunch near the small stream that ran through the McBrian’s place. Occasionally a bird could either be seen flying overhead or heard singing off in the distance. Eliza sighed.<\/em><\/p>\n “What’s the matter?” Hoss had quickly grown to like her and hated to see her looking down.<\/em><\/p>\n She shook her head and gave him a small smile, “Jist feelin’ sorry fer myself I suppose. I mean, yer leavi’ in a couple of days and it’s been nice to have someone ’round that doesn’t think it’s funny or strange that I like my animals so much. That and,” she chuckled, “I love bein’ in the kitchen, but, I never thought I’d meet anyone, besides my grandfather, that would give me a reason to live in it.”<\/em><\/p>\n Hoss started laughing, “Ya, I reckon I do have a bit of an appetite at times. Thanks for the good meals. Yer a perty good cook.” He said as they finished their food and started cleaning up.<\/em><\/p>\n
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