{"id":13145,"date":"2009-02-12T21:48:02","date_gmt":"2009-02-13T02:48:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13145"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:13:32","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:13:32","slug":"lila-jane","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13145","title":{"rendered":"Lila Jane (by DJK)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 <\/strong>Young Adam hated Lila Jane for over four years, two months, and seventeen days before an accident changes their relationship.<\/p>\n

Rating: T\u00a0\u00a0 Word count: 41,129 Warning: corporal punishment as part of family discipline<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane<\/h1>\n

By DJK<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His eyes were closed, but he was not asleep.\u00a0\u00a0 He was lying on a granite outcropping beside the lake letting the rays of the sun and the heat of the rock beneath him draw the chill of the water from his bones.\u00a0 His pa had said that the water was still too cold for swimming and had forbidden him from sticking so much as a toe in while fishing.\u00a0 He had fished for over two hours before he had succumbed to temptation and convinced himself that his pa would never know about a short, little swim.\u00a0 The swim had been short; Pa had been right; the water in the lake was still too cold for swimming.\u00a0 He had stretched out on the sunbaked stone to dry and closed his eyes listening to the sounds around him: wind rustling the trees, four maybe five kinds of birds, water lapping against the shore, and a soft giggle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His eyes sprang open.\u00a0 He shook his head.\u00a0 He could not have heard a giggle, especially not a feminine giggle.\u00a0 No one but his family lived within a dozen miles of this particular spot.\u00a0 He told himself it must have been something else, closed his eyes again, and relaxed once more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The second giggle was longer, louder, and definitely not imagined.\u00a0 This time he opened his eyes and sat up looking around him searching for the source of the sound.\u00a0 He was unable to see anyone, but when the giggle transformed into a full-throated laugh, he scrambled up and dived back into the lake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Surfacing, he blew water out of his nose and mouth.\u00a0 \u201cWho\u2019s there?\u00a0 This is our land. WHO\u2019S THERE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He saw movement at the edge of the trees and treaded water as he watched a girl he judged to be of an age with him walking calmly over to the outcropping he had just vacated.\u00a0 She had two long braids, bare feet, and a grin on her face.\u00a0 She sat down on the edge of the granite and tucked her knees beneath her chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you?\u00a0 Where did you come from?\u201d Adam demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She raised her hand and gestured.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019re camping over there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe?\u00a0 Whose we?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather and I.\u00a0 Who are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Adam.\u00a0 Adam Cartwright,\u201d he answered automatically.\u00a0 Then he said as imperiously as he could manage from his position in the water beneath her, \u201cMy pa owns this land.\u00a0 You\u2019re trespassing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour father doesn\u2019t let people cross his land?\u00a0 Will he have us arrested?\u201d\u00a0 She did not sound intimidated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Adam sputtered.\u00a0 His pa would never do that even if there were a lawman residing within fifty miles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill he shoot us then?\u201d\u00a0 This time her tone was definitely mocking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam answered with only a glare.\u00a0 In the silence that followed, the cold that was penetrating his body commanded his attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can camp the night, but then you\u2019ll have to go,\u201d Adam granted.\u00a0 \u201cGo on and tell your pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather\u2019s hunting.\u201d\u00a0 Her lips curled into a smirk.\u00a0 \u201cI can stay for a little chat.\u00a0 I haven\u2019t had anyone but Father to talk to for weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shivered.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t feel like chatting.\u00a0 Go on!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her grin deepened.\u00a0 \u201cIs the water cold?\u00a0 You can come out and get dry if you want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said go on!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned her gaze skyward and observed nonchalantly, \u201cThis is just the prettiest lake.\u00a0 The water\u2019s so clear.\u00a0 Why you can see. . .\u201d\u00a0 Her gaze swept downward and settled on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam let his right hand drop beneath the water as he wondered how his face could feel so hot while his body was freezing.\u00a0 \u201cNothing!\u00a0 You can\u2019t see nothing!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing that I didn\u2019t see before you dived in.\u201d\u00a0 Her laughter floated down onto his head.\u00a0 His anger rose to meet it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice grew as cold as the water around him.\u00a0 \u201cI said get!\u00a0 If you\u2019re still here in two minutes, well, if you\u2019ve seen it already there isn\u2019t any reason for me not to come out and teach you a lesson about spying on folks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stuck her tongue out at him.\u00a0 He surged toward the shore.\u00a0 She rose and darted toward the trees.\u00a0 He stopped in the some bushes a few yards from the water\u2019s edge.\u00a0 The girl was already lost among the tree shadows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam crossed his arms over his chest and let a curse slip from his lips.\u00a0 Hearing the vulgarity come back to his ears, he glanced hurriedly around him even though he knew he was now alone.\u00a0 If Pa heard me say that. . . <\/em>his mind shuddered first, and his body followed.\u00a0 He shook the water from his hair and stood waiting for the sun to dry him.\u00a0 He would have liked to pull on his clothes and chase the girl down, but shrugging he told himself that there would be little point in that.\u00a0 If I ever laid a hand on a girl, Pa would kill me! He\u2019ll come close enough if he finds out I\u2019ve been swimming. <\/em>That was why Adam waited until his body had dried to dress.\u00a0 If Pa saw any damp spots on his clothes, the questions would start, and Adam had never been able to straight-out lie to his pa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes searched the area carefully before he left the shelter of the bushes to head toward the rocks where his pony was tethered, and his clothes laid out.\u00a0 When he arrived, he reached for his cotton drawers, but his hand hovered in mid-air.\u00a0 Where in blazes? <\/em>\u00a0He began searching for his underwear.\u00a0 After ten minutes of fruitless endeavor, he glanced at the lowering sun, grabbed his pants, and began dressing.\u00a0 As he dressed, he chewed his lower lip and wondered if there was any possible way he could keep his father from knowing his elder son was missing a pair of drawers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam managed to return home on time and with a string of fish to clean for supper.\u00a0 His father was in an affable mood, and dinner was a pleasant affair.\u00a0 One thing that Ben Cartwright cooked well was fresh fish.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTime for bed, boys,\u201d Ben announced as he did each evening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa.\u00a0 Good night, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Both Adam and his little brother, Hoss, obediently headed toward the sleeping room.\u00a0 Adam gave a prayer of thanks that he and his father had added a sleeping room for just the boys to the cabin a few months earlier.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the two brothers began changing into nightshirts, Adam heard Hoss exclaim, \u201cAdam, where\u2019s your drawers!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShush,\u201d Adam turned to glare down at the almost five-year-old.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut where\u2019s your drawers, Adam; you ain\u2019t wearing no drawers!\u201d The little boy\u2019s astounded whisper still had enough volume to concern his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said hush!\u201d Adam gave Hoss an even fiercer glare.\u00a0 \u201cAin\u2019t any business of yours anyway.\u201d\u00a0 Adam jerked his nightshirt down over his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would like to know, Adam, precisely the same thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam spun slowly to face his father who was now standing in the doorway of the sleeping room.\u00a0 \u201cUm, you want to know what, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want to know where your drawers are.\u201d\u00a0 Ben had straightened and stepped into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy drawers, Pa?\u00a0 I have a clean pair in the chest.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes evaded his father\u2019s and focused on a knothole in the floor planks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are the drawers you put on this morning?\u201d\u00a0 Ben asked more specifically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis morning?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did put on drawers this morning, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed. \u201cOf course, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Ben Cartwright might have brought his boys into the wilderness to rear, but he insisted on all the basics of civilized behavior that his own mother had taught him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen where are they now?\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s tone made it clear that he was losing patience with his son\u2019s evasions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know?\u201d\u00a0 Ben raised his right eyebrow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI lost them.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s reply was barely a whisper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd how exactly does one lose the drawers he is wearing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t wearing them at the time,\u201d Adam admitted.\u00a0 He dared to glance upward through his lashes and then blurted out the rest of his confession. \u201cI went swimming.\u00a0 When I got dressed, my drawers were missing.\u201d\u00a0 Adam heard a sharp intake of breath from Hoss.\u00a0 It provided the exclamation point to his own: I\u2019m dead<\/em>!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked over Adam\u2019s head at his younger son who was still naked and holding his nightshirt in his hand.\u00a0 \u201cPut your nightshirt on and get in bed, Eric.\u201d\u00a0 At the sound of his given name, Hoss sucked in a deep breath and obeyed as quickly as he was able.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s stomach fell from his knees to his feet.\u00a0 Ben reached out and took his son\u2019s upper arm.\u00a0 He led Adam out into the main room of the cabin.\u00a0 Taking a seat on one of the wooden chairs, he stood the boy before him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI forbade you to swim today, did I not?\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s voice was low and hard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was not unclear; you understood my orders?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cY\u2026 yes, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you chose to disobey me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam managed only a nod.\u00a0 Then he looked directly into Ben\u2019s face for the first time since his pa had asked him about his drawers.\u00a0 \u201cI didn\u2019t lie to you about it, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 It was a plea for mercy.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you did not lie, and that was the right choice, but you had every intention of deceiving me, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa.\u201d Adam\u2019s eyes were brimming with tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I forgive you, Adam, but you have a lesson to learn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tears slipped down Adam\u2019s cheeks.\u00a0 He knew exactly what method his father would use to teach that lesson.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he crawled into bed, Adam buried his head in his pillow.\u00a0 He barely heard his little brother\u2019s \u201cI\u2019s sorry, Adam.\u00a0 I\u2019s sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did not answer until he heard Hoss begin to sniffle.\u00a0 \u201cIt wasn\u2019t your fault, Hoss.\u00a0 You didn\u2019t do anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mad, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m not mad.\u00a0 Just go to sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A few seconds passed in which Adam stifled his own sniffles in his pillow.\u00a0 Then he felt his brother shift further from him toward the wall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019ll be real careful not to touch you there.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss offered the only reassurance he had to give.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u201cThanks, brother.\u201d\u00a0 The last bit of anger at the little boy for his inadvertent finger-pointing drained out of Adam, but a smoldering fire still burned against a barefoot girl with two braids and a wicked grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam slipped onto his chair and watched his father from the side of his eyes.\u00a0\u00a0 Ben put a platter of Johnny cakes on the table and sat down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease lead us in thanks, Hoss,\u201d Ben instructed as all three Cartwrights folded hands and bowed their heads.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Lord, for this new day and for the food set \u2018fore us.\u00a0 Help it makes us strong and help us, umm, be good.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss glanced at his father before declaring, \u201cAmen!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAmen,\u201d both Ben and Adam echoed as Ben began filling his sons\u2019 plates with the Johnny cakes.\u00a0 He also began giving his sons instructions for the day.\u00a0 Hoss asked questions between large bites of food, but Adam kept his replies to a few respectful yes<\/em>, sir\u2019s<\/em>.\u00a0 Ben took note of his son\u2019s subdued demeanor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019s fretting over his spanking! <\/em>\u00a0Ben kept his sigh mental, and when Hoss left the cabin to feed the chickens Ben kept Adam in his seat by placing a hand on the boy\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cYesterday is over and done, Son. I want you to remember to obey me, but, well, you do know that I forgive you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s answer was soft, and his head remained bowed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I can expect at least a small smile sometime today?\u201d Ben made his tone lightly teasing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam sounded ready to obey an order.\u00a0 He rose; then stopped and asked, \u201cMay I be excused, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head, placed a hand on either side of Adam\u2019s waist, and drew the boy to him. \u201cNot until things are settled between us.\u00a0 You\u2019re not one to sulk, Adam, not when you know a punishment is deserved.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sulking, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 The quick flash of indignation faded immediately.\u00a0 \u201cTruly I\u2019m not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard Adam\u2019s reply only because the boy\u2019s mouth was inches from Ben\u2019s ear.\u00a0 \u201cYou don\u2019t trust me now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s arms came around his son as Adam buried his face in his father\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, no.\u201d\u00a0 Ben drew Adam\u2019s face gently from him, so the child could see his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cI placed too much temptation in your path, and I will judge better in the future, but, my son, I trust you in many ways every day, and I will continue to do so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were naughty, and you were punished.\u00a0 The next time you will not make that mistake.\u201d\u00a0 Ben smiled and chucked Adam beneath the chin. \u201cYou have always been a quick learner, Adam Stoddard; I expect it to be that way with this lesson.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt will, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s dimples peaked shyly from his smile.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t want any more instruction.\u201d\u00a0 Adam had slipped from his father\u2019s arms, and his hands reached back to rub the seat of his pants.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head, but a smile remained on his face.\u00a0 \u201cOff with you then.\u00a0 I want those chores finished before lunch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u00a0 Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned at the sound of his little brother\u2019s voice.\u00a0 \u201cWhat, Hoss?\u201d\u00a0 He walked to the door of the cabin and watched his brother hurry over from the hen house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLookit what I found,\u201d Hoss called as he walked as quickly as his burden of fresh eggs would allow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stepped clear of the door as his brother entered.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss carefully set his egg basket on the floor before holding his discovery out to his brother.\u00a0 \u201cThese!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam reached out and took the white cloth. Shaking it out, he recognized his own cotton drawers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey was out in the hen house,\u201d Hoss declared.\u00a0 \u201cHow do ya think they gots there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did a lightening quick assessment of the situation and arrived at the obvious answer within seconds.\u00a0 His eyes darkened, and a smoldering fire started to flicker with flames.\u00a0 \u201cSomebody put them there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho puts drawers in a hen house?\u201d\u00a0 Hoss sounded truly bewildered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA two-legged pole cat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss heard the anger in his brother\u2019s voice.\u00a0 \u201cWhat are ya talking about, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did not answer.\u00a0 He simply ordered, \u201cJust put the eggs up.\u00a0 And don\u2019t say nothing to Pa about this.\u00a0 Hear me, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded.\u00a0 It had only been a day since his mouth had gotten his brother a spanking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She took them! If I ever get my hands on her. . . <\/em>\u00a0Adam\u2019s attention focused on visions of retribution as he hurriedly took his drawers into the sleeping room and stuffed them into the chest where they kept their folding clothes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d\u00a0 This time it was his father\u2019s voice.\u00a0 Adam sighed.\u00a0 There was little chance that he would ever see the girl again.\u00a0 He took two steps toward the main room of the cabin before stopping short.\u00a0 She had to have left them late yesterday.\u00a0 Maybe she is still around. Maybe<\/em>. . .\u00a0 The possibility that he might have a chance at revenge started Adam pondering possibilities.\u00a0 He continued to ponder as he joined his father and brother, and his pondering continued at odd times throughout the next two days.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam jumped down from the wagon as soon as his father set the brake, and Hoss scrambled to climb down after him, but Ben caught the waist band of his younger son\u2019s pants.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa there, the both of you,\u201d Ben called.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019re going straight to our seats.\u00a0 You can find your friends after services.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAhh, Pa, I just want. . .\u201d Adam began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Ben\u2019s voice carried a sharp edge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam remembered that he was the cause of the family arriving later than usual and immediately answered, \u201cYes, sir!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stepped to the ground and then swung Hoss to stand beside him.\u00a0 Adam trudged around the wagon to join them.\u00a0 Placing his hand on his son\u2019s shoulder, Ben said, \u201cI know you get little chance to be with your friends, but it will have to wait until after services.\u201d\u00a0 Adam nodded, and the family walked over to the benches which were quickly filling with worshipers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss sat on either side of their pa squirming slightly as they settled onto a rough bench made from half a log.\u00a0 They had been seated for less than a minute when the reverend signaled for quiet and began to speak.\u00a0 Reverend Marks was a circuit rider who held services in an oversized canvas tent every third Sunday.\u00a0 He was a large man with a booming voice and a tendency toward fire-and-brimstone preaching, but he was well-liked by all for his affable personality.\u00a0 Adam, in particular, found great pleasure in how the reverend\u2019s rich baritone led the hymn singing.\u00a0 Adam and Hoss knew well how they were expected to behave, and neither boy had any desire for further instruction on the matter from their father.\u00a0 They sat attentively with their eyes focused on the reverend.\u00a0 It was not until after the sermon during the passing of the collection plate that Adam noticed a familiar looking pair of braids.\u00a0 Startled and unsure, he began twisting about and craning his neck trying to get a better look at the girl four rows in front and to the left of his father.\u00a0 He was so intent in his quest that he failed to feel his father\u2019s first touch of reprimand.\u00a0 He did feel the second sterner tap but made one more ill-considered attempt.\u00a0 A stinging pop to his thigh stilled him instantly.\u00a0 Outwardly he turned his attention back to the final words from the reverend, but as his hand surreptitiously rubbed at the lingering sting, he fumed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It\u2019s her.\u00a0 I bet it\u2019s her.\u00a0 Just wait.\u00a0 Thinks she can spy and steal and get me punished.\u00a0 Just you wait.\u00a0 If it\u2019s her. . . I bet it is<\/em>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The final amen<\/em> was still ringing in the congregation\u2019s ears as Adam slipped away for his father and brother intent on finding the girl.\u00a0 Minutes after he departed the tent, he spotted her headed toward the necessary located near the trading post.\u00a0 He did not catch up with the girl before she entered but stood waiting when she made her exit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Adam blocked the girl\u2019s path, she simply stopped short, said, \u201cOh, it\u2019s you,\u201d and then had the nerve to smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it\u2019s me.\u201d\u00a0 The scowl on Adam\u2019s face had yet to fully develop into the one that would someday send cold chills down the spine of hardened cowpokes, rugged miners, toughened lumberjacks, and assorted miscreants; but it was well on its way.\u00a0 The girl did not flinch though the smile left her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou found your drawers?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou stole them!\u201d His accusation snapped with indignation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBorrowed!\u00a0 I returned them as soon as I could!\u201d\u00a0 Her voice contained its own measure of indignation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot soon enough.\u00a0 Not having those drawers got my tail busted.\u201d\u00a0 If Adam\u2019s cheeks had not already burned with anger, they would have flushed scarlet when he realized what his rage had let him reveal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou told your father?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe found out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf he did, it\u2019s your fault not mine.\u201d\u00a0 Her voice was flippant, and a smirk settled on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMine!\u00a0 You steal my drawers, and it\u2019s my fault.\u00a0 I suppose your pa wouldn\u2019t know if you lost yours.\u201d Adam\u2019s voice squeaked with anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot if I had the sense God gave a goat.\u00a0 I don\u2019t go showing my bare backside to anybody.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a girl,\u201d Adam sputtered, \u201cIt\u2019s different for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The smirk faded, and Adam watched as the girl before him chewed her lower lip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess it is; I never thought. . . I mean I didn\u2019t want you to get a thrashing.\u00a0 It was just a joke.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t funny!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d\u00a0 She said it simply and waited for his reply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam huffed and crossed his arms on his chest.\u00a0 He stared at the girl, and his right hand slipped upward and tugged his left ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t supposed to be swimming; Pa was mostly mad about that,\u201d Adam admitted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t ever tell anybody I saw you naked. I promise.\u201d\u00a0 She took her pointer finger and traced a cross above her heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam decided to accept her peace offering.\u00a0 \u201cOkay.\u201d He offered her his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She accepted it, and they shook.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy name\u2019s Lila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Before Adam could respond, Lila Jane added, \u201cI remember; you\u2019re Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t think you\u2019d still be around.\u00a0 If you and your pa are passing through\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, we\u2019re not passing through; we\u2019re staying.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes widened, but before he spoke, he heard his name called.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s my pa.\u00a0 I better go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane smiled.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019re bound to see each other again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Adam muttered unsure whether he wanted that or not, and then dashed off as he heard his father call him once again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you want me, Pa?\u201d\u00a0 Adam came to a stop in front of his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere were you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAt the necessary, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 He had been standing near it the entire time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs that why you were fidgeting through the last of the service?\u201d\u00a0 Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam chose his words carefully.\u00a0 \u201cThe same reason, Pa.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t have a chance before services.\u201d\u00a0 Adam realized his last remark might not have been the wisest and added, \u201cI won\u2019t dawdle next time, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee you don\u2019t.\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s brow creased with a sense that there was something his son was avoiding telling him.\u00a0 Then he told himself that if there was it would come to light soon enough.\u00a0 \u201cThe ladies will have dinner set out in an hour, so you can play with your friends until then.\u00a0 We need to leave as soon as we eat.\u00a0 There are things that need doing at home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Pa, it\u2019s Sunday!\u201d\u00a0 There was a definite whine embedded in the boy\u2019s protest.\u00a0 Every third Sunday after service was generally his to spend with his friends, and most often it was the only time he had to play with other boys.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEven on Sunday there are things requiring attention.\u201d Ben watched Adam\u2019s lower lip slip forward, but his regret that his sons so seldom had a chance to spend time with playmates kept a reprimand from his lips. \u201cYour only task will be to watch your brother.\u00a0 You may take him fishing at the creek.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s more fish in the lake than the creek.\u201d\u00a0 Adam volunteered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd more temptations.\u00a0 The creek, Adam, and we\u2019ll have fresh fish for supper.\u00a0 Now, don\u2019t waste the hour you have.\u201d He gave Adam a light swat on the backside as the boy darted away to find his friends.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the wagon stopped in front of the trading post, Hoss reached into his pocket and withdrew the contents.\u00a0 \u201cI gots my penny, Pa.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t lose it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood boy,\u201d Ben replied and patted the little one\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, do you gots your penny?\u201d\u00a0 Hoss\u2019s head had swiveled in the opposite direction to gaze at his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Hoss, I told you I\u2019m saving my penny; I left it at home,\u201d Adam replied automatically while he scanned the area to see if anyone he knew was in sight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stepped down from the wagon. \u201cCome on, boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam jumped down and then turned to help his brother to the ground.\u00a0 The two boys followed their father into the interior of the trading post.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you will watch your brother while I talk to Mr. Benz.\u00a0 You may go out on the porch but no further,\u201d Ben instructed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2019s gonna help me pick out my candy, Pa,\u201d Hoss declared amiably.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes.\u00a0 Hoss took buying a penny\u2019s worth of candy as seriously as Pa did purchasing a breeding bull.\u00a0 \u201cCome on then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave half his attention to his discussion with his brother on the merits of various sweets while looking over all the nearby merchandise and keeping an ear on his father\u2019s discussion with the store\u2019s proprietor.\u00a0 Finally, Hoss made his decision.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI knows what I wants!\u201d\u00a0 Hoss announced loudly.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019s ready to buy, Mr. Benz!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEric, you\u2019re interrupting!\u201d\u00a0 Ben followed his reprimand with a stern look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s chin dropped.\u00a0 \u201cSorry, Pa.\u00a0 Sorry, Mr. Benz.\u00a0 I waits.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWould you mind, Ben, if I took a minute to help this important customer before we continue?\u201d\u00a0 Mr. Benz inquired affably as he looked at Hoss\u2019s crest-fallen expression.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and watched as the smile came back to his young son\u2019s face.\u00a0 Mr. Benz made a great show of dealing with his \u201cimportant customer\u201d as little Hoss\u2019s chest puffed with pride.\u00a0 The proprietor wrapped four peppermints in paper and handed them to Hoss with a flourish.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyebrow slide upward; a penny usually bought only three peppermints.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake your brother out on the porch, Adam.\u00a0 I shouldn\u2019t be much longer,\u201d Ben ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had already ascertained that the trading post had no new books on its shelves, so he replied easily, \u201cYes, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 He led his little brother onto the porch, and the two of them squeezed into the old rocking chair that sat there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss carefully unwrapped his sweets and stared down at them.\u00a0 Then he slipped a mint into his mouth and talked around it.\u00a0 \u201cYou can have one, Adam.\u00a0 I\u2019ll share.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s okay, Hoss.\u00a0 You don\u2019t have to share yours just because I\u2019m saving.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou gonna save for a book?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou gonna read to me from that book when ya gets it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you\u2019ll be sharing with me, so I\u2019ll share now.\u00a0 Go on.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss pointed toward the mints in his lap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam reached with one hand and picked up a peppermint while his other arm slipped around his brother\u2019s waist in a one-armed hug.\u00a0 He slid the sweet into his mouth.\u00a0 Both boys sat contentedly sucking candy and watching the street.\u00a0 Then Adam saw someone approaching that he had not thought about in three days.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane came up and leaned over the porch rail staring at Adam and Hoss.\u00a0 \u201cHey, Adam Cartwright!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Lila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Adam replied with less enthusiasm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat your brother?\u201d \u00a0Lila Jane pointed at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah.\u00a0 His name\u2019s Hoss.\u201d\u00a0 Adam waited for the expected \u201cHorse?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds friendly,\u201d Lila Jane smiled, and Adam\u2019s eyes widened in surprise.\u00a0 \u201cAre you friendly, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded.\u00a0 \u201cAre you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shot a look at Adam and then answered, \u201cI am to nice folks with blue eyes.\u00a0 I just love blue eyes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI gots blue eyes,\u201d Hoss responded cheerfully, but then his smile flickered.\u00a0 \u201cAdam ain\u2019t got blue eyes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane heard the concern in Hoss\u2019s voice and said quickly, \u201cThat\u2019s okay.\u00a0 I love black hair too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s smile became sunny once more.\u00a0 Then he glanced at the candy in his lap.\u00a0 Hoss knew the right thing to do.\u00a0 He lifted the paper and held the sweets out toward the girl.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019s eating candy.\u00a0 You can have one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s eyes were on Adam, and she read the flickering reaction on his face correctly.\u00a0 \u201cWell, it\u2019s very nice of you to offer, Hoss, but you see, well, I\u2019m not allowed without my father\u2019s permission.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d Hoss knew all about having to have permission.\u00a0 He pulled the candy back into his lap, folded the paper back over the contents, and thrust the package into his pocket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is your pa, Lila Jane?\u201d\u00a0 Adam had not seen a man he did not recognize while they had been sitting on the store porch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane raised her hand and pointed toward a wagon and tent further down the street.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s going to set up a shop there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat kind of shop?\u201d\u00a0 A new business in town was always of interest to everyone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather\u2019s a cobbler.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s face scrunched with puzzlement.\u00a0 \u201cCobbler\u2019s something ya eat,\u201d he muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe means a shoemaker,\u201d Adam clarified.\u00a0 \u201cHe makes and repairs shoes and boots and such.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u00a0 That\u2019s good, ain\u2019t it, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYeah.\u00a0 Pa\u2019s boots could use new soles.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather figures with people passing through to California there should be work enough for cash money.\u00a0 We\u2019re going to plant a garden and hunt for food too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you\u2019ll be living in town?\u201d\u00a0 Adam tugged his left ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane nodded.\u00a0 \u201cFather\u2019s business will grow with the town.\u00a0 As soon as folks know they can get finer shoes here than anywhere else, they\u2019ll come from all around.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes traveled downward.\u00a0 Lila Jane was once again barefoot.\u00a0 \u201cThat might happen faster if folks saw his work on your feet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shrugged and grinned, \u201cI advertise on Sundays.\u201d\u00a0 Then all three heads turned as Lila Jane\u2019s name was called in a deep bass voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat will be Father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane made no move to leave, so Adam inquired, \u201cHadn\u2019t you better go then?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019ll call again if he really wants me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both Adam and Hoss\u2019s eyes widened at the remark, but hearing boots on the wooden plank they turned their heads to watch Ben Cartwright exited the store.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, boys, we can go over to the livery while. . .\u201d Ben stopped as his eyes found Lila Jane.\u00a0 \u201cWho?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Lila Jane, Pa.\u00a0 Her father\u2019s going to start a shop. He\u2019s a cobbler.\u201d\u00a0 Adam made his introduction.\u00a0 \u201cLila Jane, this is our pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPleased to meet you, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane made a small curtsey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m pleased to meet you too, young lady.\u00a0 Mr. Benz told me the town had been fortunate enough to gain the permanent services of a shoemaker.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam said you need new soles on your boots,\u201d Lila Jane asserted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s right.\u00a0 I shall look forward to meeting your father professionally as well as to welcome him to town.\u00a0 Unfortunately, we have several errands to finish before we head back to the ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather\u2019s not quite ready for customers yet anyway.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane observed and then heard her name called again.\u00a0 \u201cI better go.\u00a0 Excuse me, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, dear.\u201d\u00a0 Ben watched Lila Jane turn and dart down the street with a smile.\u00a0 \u201cWell, boys, we better get going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes also followed Lila Jane as he pondered whether he was pleased that he would be seeing more of the girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next time Adam saw Lila Jane she was advertising.\u00a0 It was Sunday, and not only was Lila Jane wearing shoes, but she was also displaying them to three girls gathered around her.\u00a0\u00a0 Adam stood beside the church tent with Hoss at his side.\u00a0 He was waiting for his father to release him from his responsibility for his little brother so that he could join the other boys for some fun.\u00a0 Ben Cartwright, though, had become engaged in a lengthy conversation with Reverend Marks.\u00a0 Adam had inched as far from his father toward the gathering children as he dared.\u00a0 Now he shifted impatiently from one foot to another letting his attention drift from sight to sight.\u00a0 His attention began to focus on the group of young girls as bits of their conversation were blown to his ears.\u00a0 Apparently, Lila Jane\u2019s high-button Sunday shoes had found an appreciative audience.\u00a0 Then the girls\u2019 voices dropped too low for their words to reach Adam\u2019s ears, but their giggles did.\u00a0 Settling his gaze on the group, Adam observed several of the girls look in his direction and then lean toward Lila Jane and whisper behind their hands.\u00a0 Adam felt the tips of his ears burn as he decided that he had somehow become the object of the girls\u2019 discussion.\u00a0 As the giggles increased and rose in volume, the stares from the girls become bolder. Adam lifted his chin and turned his back to the group.\u00a0 Feeling a tug at his sleeve, Adam bent over slightly to bring his ear closer to his little brother\u2019s mouth.\u00a0 This allowed him to glance surreptitiously back toward the giggling girls and see Alice Crawford point her finger directly at his backside.\u00a0 He jerked upright as the loudest wave of giggles reached his ears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I wonder what in blazes they find so funny<\/em>!\u00a0 The thought had barely entered his mind when an answer followed bringing a flood of white-hot anger with it.\u00a0 She told!<\/em>\u00a0 It seemed the only logical explanation.\u00a0 He had allowed himself to be fooled into forgiveness by a smile and a lie of a promise.\u00a0 Fury drove away all control, and he turned toward the girl who had betrayed him.\u00a0 Striding across the grass, he bore down upon Lila Jane with a single-minded intent to wipe the smile from her face.\u00a0 The look on Adam\u2019s face parted the girls around Lila Jane as Moses parted the Red Sea.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam planted his feet and glowered at Lila Jane through a fog of rage.\u00a0 \u201cLiar!\u201d\u00a0 He spat the word into her face.\u00a0 \u201cWelcher!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane took a step back as if recoiling from a physical onslaught.\u00a0 Then she stiffened.\u00a0 \u201cWhat in blazes!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou told them.\u201d\u00a0 His volume was lower, but his vehemence increased.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTold them what?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s true puzzlement was hidden beneath her defiant tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat you saw me naked!\u201d\u00a0 The gasps of the surrounding girls did not register with Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s eyes widened. Shaking her head, she made the grave mistake of grinning wickedly.\u00a0 Before she could utter a sound, Adam\u2019s hand moved.\u00a0 His slap eliminated Lila Jane\u2019s grin and brought tears to her eyes.\u00a0 It also brought cries from the mouth of each observer.\u00a0 Adam felt his anger drain from him like water from an upturned bucket.\u00a0 He gasped and then shuddered as it was replaced by the realization that he had struck a girl.\u00a0 Shame froze every muscle in his body.\u00a0 Then he heard his father\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Feminine voices began declaring that Adam had hit Lila Jane after calling her names.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s eyes went to the girl\u2019s face.\u00a0 The handprint on her cheek was clear evidence of his son\u2019s guilt.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s hand clamped on Adam\u2019s forearm as Ben turned his son to face him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Stoddard Cartwright!\u00a0 What is the meaning of this?\u201d\u00a0 Ben did not bellow; his voice had already lowered into a much more serious tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI… I… she. . . I\u2019m sorry.\u201d\u00a0 The last two words were little more than a whimper as Adam wilted beneath his father\u2019s glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben drew in a deep breath in an attempt to rein in his anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane stood behind Adam with her hand to her cheek.\u00a0 She had a clear view of Ben\u2019s face, and her own anger burned away in the face of a superior blaze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane?\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Her father had arrived.\u00a0 Upon seeing the mark on his daughter\u2019s face, Josiah Caruthers\u2019s own anger was kindled.\u00a0 \u201cWhat happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s instinctive need to protect his son kept his voice calm as he explained there had been a children\u2019s quarrel and that his son had slapped Lila Jane.\u00a0 Before Josiah Caruthers could voice his outrage or demand atonement, Ben quickly assured him that Adam had been taught better and would be receiving the obviously needed correction he was due.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Josiah began to sputter a reply, Adam managed to declare, \u201cI\u2019m sorry I hit her.\u201d\u00a0 The simple statement turned Josiah\u2019s attention to the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should be.\u00a0 A man does not strike a woman.\u00a0 Never!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah harrumphed finding it difficult to argue when everyone already agreed with his point of view.\u00a0 Then he sighed.\u00a0 He\u2019s not a man; he\u2019s a boy.\u00a0 <\/em>Josiah\u2019s eyes went back to Ben\u2019s face.\u00a0\u00a0 A boy who will clearly be paying the price of his transgression.\u00a0 <\/em>\u00a0\u00a0Josiah often said that there was no point in beating a dead horse.\u00a0 He turned to his daughter.\u00a0 \u201cVery well then.\u00a0 Come, Lila Jane, we\u2019ll put a cool cloth on that cheek.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched Josiah lead his daughter away and then turned his attention back to his eldest son.\u00a0 He again clamped his hand around Adam\u2019s forearm, called Hoss to his side, and led both boys to the Cartwright wagon.\u00a0 Hoisting Hoss onto the wagon seat, he settled the boy there, as he did, he noticed a film of tears in the child\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re in no trouble, Hoss,\u201d Ben said soothingly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam is.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, your brother is in serious trouble, but that need not concern you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t like Adam to get a tanning, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 It was obviously a plea for mercy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNeither do I, but when one is earned, well. . .\u00a0 What your brother did was very wrong, Hoss, very wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard a stifled sob and looked into the wagon bed.\u00a0 Adam had crawled into the back of the wagon and was lying there curled in upon himself.\u00a0 Ben shook his head and took his place on the wagon seat.\u00a0 He listened intermittently to Adam\u2019s muffled despair and Hoss\u2019s sniffles the entire ride home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Ben guided the wagon next to the barn, he said, \u201cYou will go in and change out of your Sunday clothes.\u00a0 I\u2019ll see to the horses.\u201d\u00a0 He set the brake and jumped to the ground.\u00a0 Turning to help Hoss, he saw Adam slip from the back of the wagon and head toward the cabin.\u00a0 He swung Hoss down while watching his eldest.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cGo along now.\u201d\u00a0 He sent Hoss on his way with a pat to the back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss followed his brother into their sleeping room.\u00a0 \u201cAdam?\u201d\u00a0 He received no response as his older brother threw his body face down upon their bed. \u201cAdam?\u201d\u201d There was no response. Hoss chewed his lower lip but made no more attempts at conversation as he removed his Sunday clothes and replaced them with his everyday shirt and pants.\u00a0 Then he wandered back through the main room and out onto the porch.\u00a0 He sat down on the single step and stared over at the barn.\u00a0 When his stomach growled, he looked down with a reprimand on his face.\u00a0 A few minutes later, when it rumbled again, he said sharply, \u201cStop!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben exited the barn and heard his young son. Striding over, he asked, \u201cStop what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy stomach\u2019s grumbling,\u201d Hoss replied giving his mid-section another glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI expect it should be,\u201d Ben observed.\u00a0 They had left before the usual communal dinner, and breakfast had been quite a few hours ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I don\u2019t want nothing to eat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gazed down at the boy and then lowered himself to sit beside his son.\u00a0 \u201cWhy not, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam won\u2019t speak to me, Pa.\u00a0 Wouldn\u2019t even look at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour brother is feeling ashamed right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c \u2018Cause he hit that Lila Jane?\u201d\u00a0 Ben nodded, and Hoss continued, \u201cI thinks it\u2019s \u2018cause they was laughing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe girls were laughing at Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded, \u201cI thinks so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEven so, he should not have struck Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gazed up at his father.\u00a0 \u201cWhy\u2019s it worser to hit a girl, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took a deep breath.\u00a0 \u201cHoss, generally, well, most often women and girls are not as big or strong as men and boys.\u00a0 They could be more easily hurt in a fight, so we must learn not to strike out at them in anger.\u00a0 Really, we should learn to not strike out in anger at anyone but especially at those who cannot defend themselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou was real angry at Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that is why I did not punish him before we left town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned his eyes to his hands.\u00a0 \u201cPa,\u201d he said softly, \u201cI\u2019s gonna be big and strong when I grows up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll signs are that you will be quite big and strong, Son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI gots to learn not to gets in a temper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed a hand on each of his son\u2019s cheeks and turned Hoss\u2019s eyes to his own.\u00a0 \u201cYes, Son, you must learn to control your temper and not allow it to control you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI tries hard, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 The child\u2019s tone was deeply serious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI know you do.\u201d\u00a0 Ben hugged the boy to him.\u00a0\u00a0 Then he stood with Hoss in his arms and walked into the cabin.\u00a0\u00a0 Setting the boy down, he said, \u201cWash your hands.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss obeyed, and Ben took a biscuit left from breakfast, broke it open, and spread the surfaces with molasses.\u00a0 Handing the pieces to Hoss, he instructed, \u201cTake this out on the porch to eat.\u00a0 It should stop that growling for a bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you may play between the house and the barn.\u00a0 Do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need to speak with your brother, and then I\u2019ll fix us some dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned and slowly walked out the door.\u00a0 Ben turned in the opposite direction and entered the sleeping room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam, still in his Sunday clothes, lay facing the wall with his body curled around a pillow. His son\u2019s remorse was obvious to Ben as he walked over and sat on the edge of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d\u00a0 The boy\u2019s whole body tensed.\u00a0 \u201cWe need to talk.\u201d\u00a0 Ben placed his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cLook at me, Son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam flinched.\u00a0 \u201cI can\u2019t, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d\u00a0 The command in Ben\u2019s voice was clear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shuddered.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m too ashamed.\u201d\u00a0 The statement ended with a sob.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed.\u00a0 \u201cThen you are well on the road to true repentance.\u201d\u00a0 Ben applied pressure to Adam\u2019s shoulder turning the boy onto his back.\u00a0 \u201cAnd from there it is a short distance to forgiveness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was just so mad.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t, I didn\u2019t think about her being a girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou lost your temper. What you did because of that was wrong.\u00a0 Inexcusable, in fact, but not unforgivable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI shamed the Cartwright name.\u201d\u00a0 Adam turned his head from his father\u2019s gaze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are not the first, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes came back to his pa\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cI won\u2019t ever hit a girl again, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s hand came up and cupped Adam\u2019s chin.\u00a0 He gazed down into his son\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re still a boy, Adam, and as such you will make mistakes that could not be tolerated in a man.\u00a0 If you learn from them and their consequences, then you will not repeat them when you are a man.\u201d\u00a0 His hand dropped back to his side.\u00a0 \u201cDo you understand why this was worse than throwing a punch at one of your male playmates?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 With Lila Jane, well, it couldn\u2019t ever be a fair fight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded accepting the child\u2019s level of understanding.\u00a0 \u201cHoss said the girls were laughing at you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u00a0 They were gossiping and laughing, and I got mad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat were they gossiping about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s stomach flipped.\u00a0 \u201cGirls, Pa, well, you know, they talk and tease about, well, things.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben recognized the evasion but allowed it to pass deciding to proceed with what was necessary.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAnd that should not bring out the degree of temper it did today.\u00a0\u00a0 Do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen change from your good clothes.\u00a0 You may put on your nightshirt,\u201d Ben instructed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d Adam replied slipping off the bed.\u00a0 He understood that he would not be leaving the cabin before morning and that in a very few minutes he would have no desire to be anywhere but once again face down on his bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stopped in the doorway of the sleeping room.\u00a0 \u201cPa, I, I need to use the necessary.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up from his Bible and said, \u201cUse the chamber pot.\u00a0 Then wash your hands and get your plate from the warmer. \u00a0Ben had allowed his eldest to sleep off the initial effects of his punishment instead of waking him when Hoss and Ben had eaten.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Adam turned back into the sleeping room, and Hoss walked over to lean against his father\u2019s leg.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou think Adam will talk to me now, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted Hoss\u2019s back.\u00a0 \u201cAfter he eats.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes he have to go straight back to bed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 It\u2019s about three hours until bedtime.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss smiled.\u00a0 \u201cBut I doubt your brother will be in the mood for playing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both of their heads turned as Adam entered the main room.\u00a0 They watched him retrieve his plate from the warmer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not very hungry, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou will eat.\u00a0 You may stand while you do so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can sit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss darted toward the sleeping room calling, \u201cI\u2019ll gets ya a pillow!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s pale cheeks flushed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s your brother,\u201d Ben observed casually.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged, and when Hoss handed him the pillow he simply said, \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll sit with ya,\u201d Hoss stated slipping onto a chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want some milk?\u201d\u00a0 Adam asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. \u00a0Can I have a biscuit too, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWith preserves?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou and Adam may have preserves with your biscuits.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned, and Adam set the biscuits and preserves on the table and then poured milk for them both.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two boys ate in companionable silence for a few minutes, and then Hoss began a conversation about two squirrels he had seen while outside that afternoon.\u00a0 When Adam was finished eating, he tidied the table, washed his dishes, and put them away.\u00a0 Then he walked over to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need a piece of paper, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Ben raised his eyebrow in inquiry.\u00a0 \u201cFor a letter, um, an apology to Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know where the paper and ink are kept.\u00a0 Bring it to me before you seal it.\u201d\u00a0 Ben motioned for Hoss to come to him as Adam went to get the needed items.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben held Hoss and told him a story while Adam wrote his apology.\u00a0 When Adam brought the finished missive to him, Ben read it; then looked at Adam and smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI shall see that Lila Jane receives this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam exhaled the breath he had been holding, grateful that his pa would not make him deliver the apology in person.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben set Hoss on his feet.\u00a0 \u201cGo change for bed, and then I\u2019ll read to the two of you for a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss knew his father wanted to speak to his brother, so he did not complain but went immediately to obey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the two of them were alone, Ben said, \u201cYou have accepted that you were wrong, received your punishment, and apologized.\u00a0 You are forgiven, Adam.\u00a0 You will start from here with a clean slate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Pa.\u00a0 I\u2019ve learned my lesson.\u00a0 Truly I have.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood.\u00a0 There is some instruction I rue having to give.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Pa.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry I made you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI told you that are you forgiven, Adam.\u00a0 Now pick a book for us to read.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled.\u00a0 \u201cYes, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After Ben had heard his sons\u2019 prayers and had seen them settled in their bed, he went to the porch to have a last smoke of his pipe.\u00a0 The two boys lay in bed back-to-back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa ain\u2019t mad at you no more.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you still mad at that Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was silent for moment before answering truthfully, \u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Deep inside he was angry with Lila Jane, and he remained so for the next four years, two months, and seventeen days.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took a deep breath and pushed open the door to the cobbler\u2019s shop.\u00a0 Glancing around he saw exactly what he had hoped he would not. He knew Lila Jane often worked in her father\u2019s store, and there she was.\u00a0 Her hair now hung down her back in a single thick braid, a white apron had replaced her pinafore, and she was wearing shoes, but it was unmistakably Lila Jane.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The girl turned at the sound of the bell that hung over the door.\u00a0 The smile that had started on her face faded away, and her words had a forced cheerfulness.\u00a0 \u201cWell, if it isn\u2019t Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve come to pick up a pair of shoes for . . .\u201d Adam paused as he mentally decided on the correct choice: Marie, my stepmother, my mother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Cartwright,\u201d Lila Jane inserted swiftly.\u00a0 \u201cFather has her dancing slippers ready.\u00a0 I can get them for you.\u00a0 They were paid for when ordered.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d\u00a0 The words had a coldly formal sound.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather said that she wanted new dancing slippers because all of you were going to San Francisco.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane commented as she would have to any other customer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Politeness demanded a reply.\u00a0 \u201cPa and I have business there.\u00a0 He decided the rest of the family would enjoy some time in the city.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane answered as she wrapped the shoes in brown paper, \u201cI\u2019m sure all of you will have a wonderful time.\u00a0 Tell Mrs. Cartwright that if she dances through the soles of these slippers Father can replace them for her.\u201d\u00a0 She tied a string around the bundle and held it out to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI shall.\u201d\u00a0 Adam reached for the bundle, but his hand stopped short.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the first time he looked directly at her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t tell them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did not bother to pretend he did not immediately know to what Lila Jane referred.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou didn\u2019t?\u201d\u00a0 His eyebrow arched disdainfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I didn\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what was it that all of you were laughing at?”\u00a0 Adam\u2019s tone made it a challenge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does it matter?\u00a0 For heaven\u2019s sake, it was years ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are the one who brought up the subject, Lila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 He turned away but then turned back.\u00a0 \u201cWhy did you tell me that today?\u00a0 Not any other time in four years but today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the first time since you slapped me that we\u2019ve been together with no one else around.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was the truth.\u00a0 He had avoided Lila Jane whenever possible and acted with exaggerated politeness when he could not.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t answer me.\u00a0 What were you laughing about if you didn\u2019t tell them?\u00a0 Do you deny you were talking and laughing about me?\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice was hard and sharp-edged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d\u00a0 The anger in his eyes lit the same fire in hers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what!\u201d\u00a0 The demand was sneered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane tossed her head up and glared back at Adam.\u00a0 \u201cDoes it matter?\u201d\u00a0 Then the same grin he had slapped from her face long ago returned.\u00a0 \u201cAfter all, if I had<\/em> told them, there would have been so little <\/em>to comment about!\u201d\u00a0 She had lowered her gaze from his face to below his belt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s hands clenched, his breath hissed into his lungs, and he forced himself to turn and walk out of the shop.\u00a0 The slamming of the door echoed through the building, and the little bell clanged its way to the floor.\u00a0 A banked fire had once again become a full-blown blaze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u00a0 ADAM!\u201d\u00a0 He heard his name being shouted even through the fog of his rage.\u00a0 He also recognized the voice, so his stride did not even hesitate.\u00a0 Deep inside a tendril of fear uncoiled; he was not sure if he could control his anger if he answered her calls, and he was determined never again to let her be the cause of him shaming his name.\u00a0 The calls stopped abruptly, and there was a single high scream.\u00a0 Adam froze.\u00a0 He stood statue-like, not even trying to decipher the sounds behind him.\u00a0 Then he turned slowly and stared back the way he had come.\u00a0 At first everything seemed to pass before his eyes in a slowed motion with the shouts and cries muffled, but as Adam took measured steps toward the scene it sharpened into focus.\u00a0 Lila Jane lay sprawled in the dirt of the street.\u00a0\u00a0 People were calling for help and gathering around the girl.\u00a0 The driver of the wagon stood holding the harness of his lead horse while repeating, \u201cShe stepped right in front of me.\u00a0 There wasn\u2019t anything I could do.\u00a0 She just stepped right in front of me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The only person there not muttering questions and exclamations was Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 He stood in complete silence watching as Josiah Caruthers ran to his daughter, lifted her gently, and carried her away.\u00a0 Then he walked slowly to the opposite side of the street a few feet from where Lila Jane had lain.\u00a0 Bending over he picked up a paper wrapped bundle.\u00a0\u00a0 The paper was dirty and had been loosened when the bundle was propelled so forcefully from the girl\u2019s hands.\u00a0\u00a0 It was clearly the pair of dancing slippers he had forgotten in his hasted to leave the cobbler\u2019s shop.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s fingers tightened convulsively as he turned and walked quickly away from the site of the accident.\u00a0\u00a0 He arrived at the Cartwright wagon slightly out of breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere you are, Son.\u00a0 Did you get your mother\u2019s slippers?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u00a0 Right here.\u201d\u00a0 Adam held up the bundle in his right hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood.\u00a0 Climb up then, and we\u2019ll head home.\u00a0 I don\u2019t want to be late for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s answer was automatic, and he quickly obeyed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben noticed that his son said very little on the trip home, but in all truth his eldest was never a chatterbox and at fifteen had been known to drift into moodiness.\u00a0 He told himself if there was a real problem it would become clear eventually and that there was no sense borrowing trouble.\u00a0 It was not until Sunday that Ben Cartwright heard about Lila Jane Caruthers accident.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cParalyzed!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, possibly; it\u2019s too soon to tell for certain.\u00a0 It\u2019s not as if I can look inside her back.\u201d\u00a0 Doctor Paul Martin\u2019s voice held frustration directed not at his friend but at his own limitations.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright slowly shook his head, \u201cSuch a tragedy, such a tragedy.\u00a0 She just stepped in front of the wagon, you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo the driver said.\u00a0 He was beside himself.\u00a0 Lila Jane doesn\u2019t remember anything about that day.\u00a0 Which is not too unusual when you\u2019re dealing with a severe concussion.\u00a0 Josiah is just thanking the Lord that she\u2019s still alive.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when you see them next be sure to tell him that if there is anything I or Marie can do, he should let us know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin nodded.\u00a0 \u201cEveryone who knows says the same, of course.\u00a0 Still he and Lila Jane are going to have a hard row to hoe.\u00a0 Even if she recovers, it is going to be a long, slow process.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, as Reverend Marks said we shall hold the both of them in our prayers,\u201d Ben stated as his eyes began to scan the people in the churchyard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI see Nathan Standish, Ben.\u00a0 If you\u2019ll excuse me, I need to speak to him about how his leg is healing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Paul.\u00a0 I should be rounding up those sons of mine and heading for home myself.\u00a0\u00a0 Remember you are expected for dinner on Tuesday.\u00a0 I\u2019ll have the chess board set up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t miss a meal at the Ponderosa for any. . .\u201d\u00a0 A wry grin settled on the physician\u2019s face, \u201cWell, for anything short of a medical emergency.\u00a0 Give my best to Marie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI shall,\u201d Ben assured.\u00a0 His eyes had located his two younger sons, but his eldest did not appear to be anywhere in sight.\u00a0 Ben searched the different groups of people congregating in the churchyard once again.\u00a0 He saw the group of boys that Adam usually joined on Sundays and walked toward them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, have any of you seen Adam?\u201d\u00a0 Ben inquired of the entire group.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir,\u201d issued from several mouths with accompanying shakes of all the young heads.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUmm,\u201d Ben\u2019s hand rubbed his chin.\u00a0 Where has that boy gotten too?\u00a0 If he\u2019s up to some mischief. . .<\/em>\u00a0 Ben let the thought drifted away as he continued his search.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, have you seen your brother?\u201d\u00a0 An edge had sharpened Ben\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe\u2019s playing over there,\u201d Hoss replied pointing out his three-year-old brother.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s playing with Jason.\u00a0 Mrs.\u00a0 Connerly\u2019s watching them.\u00a0 You said it was okay, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Hoss.\u00a0 I wasn\u2019t asking about Little Joe.\u00a0 Do you know where your brother Adam is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A puzzled expression flitted across Hoss Cartwright\u2019s countenance.\u00a0 Then he ventured, \u201cHe might still be in the church.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cInside?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think so, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we\u2019ll be leaving soon.\u00a0 Finish up and get your little brother.\u00a0 Adam and I will meet you at the buggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben strode toward the steps of the newly built church, took his hat from his head, and stepped inside.\u00a0 He stopped short when he saw the figure of his son kneeling at the altar rail.\u00a0 He drew in a deep breath.\u00a0 Something\u2019s been troubling him for days. It\u2019s time I found out just what that is.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0 He walked softly but determinedly down the aisle until he stood directly behind his son.\u00a0 Placing his hands on the boy\u2019s shoulders, he said, \u201cAdam.\u201d\u00a0 The single word carried a demand that was clear to both of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Instead of looking up, the boy bent his head even further.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s hands moved to Adam\u2019s upper arms and raised him to his feet.\u00a0 Turning his son to face him, Ben said, \u201cIt is time that you talked to this father also, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So suddenly that it startled his pa, Adam buried his head in Ben\u2019s shirt front and threw his arms around Ben\u2019s waist.\u00a0 As Adam fought the sobs inside, his father patted his trembling back and murmured wordless reassurance.\u00a0 Finally Ben was able to make out the words, \u201cIt\u2019s my fault.\u00a0 It\u2019s my fault.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben maneuvered his son onto the first pew and sat beside him.\u00a0 Drawing the boy\u2019s head away from his chest, Ben took Adam\u2019s face in his hands and stated firmly, \u201cTell me what it is that is your fault.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 The name was exhaled with a shudder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s brows lowered in puzzlement.\u00a0 \u201cLila Jane?\u00a0 What do you mean, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s my fault she\u2019s hurt, Pa, my fault!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow could Lila Jane\u2019s accident be your fault?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A tremor passed through Adam\u2019s body.\u00a0 He gulped air and then forced out his story in halting sentences.\u00a0 His father listened as he told of the argument in the shop, his leaving without the dancing slippers, and his ignoring Lila Jane\u2019s calls.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just kept walking, Pa.\u00a0 I heard her, but I was so mad.\u00a0 I just kept walking, and it\u2019s my fault she walked in front of that wagon.\u00a0 All my fault!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cNo, son, it\u2019s not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam jerked back and stared into his father\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 \u201cBut it is, Pa.\u00a0 I forgot the slippers because I was mad.\u00a0 She would have stayed in the shop if I hadn\u2019t forgotten them.\u00a0 Then I heard her.\u00a0 If I had turned around, she wouldn\u2019t have followed me, and it wouldn\u2019t have happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps not, but still, Adam, it was an accident.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean for it to happen. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course you didn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut it happened because of my temper, Pa, so it\u2019s my fault.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben studied his son\u2019s face.\u00a0 There\u2019s not a thing in the world I can say that will make him believe it wasn\u2019t. <\/em>\u00a0He considered his next words carefully.\u00a0 \u201cIt was an accident, Adam, but if you feel that your actions helped to create that accident, there is only one thing to be done.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dropped his eyes to his hands.\u00a0 \u201cAsk forgiveness.\u201d\u00a0 Ben nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI was asking God, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you have asked God for forgiveness, you have already received it, child.\u201d\u00a0 Both Ben and Adam turned toward the source of the words.\u00a0 Reverend Marks walked toward them and continued, \u201cI did not hear what you needed forgiven, but I do know that whatever you have done God has forgiven you.\u201d\u00a0 He smiled at Adam, \u201cAccept that and forgive yourself, Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWould you reject God\u2019s forgiveness?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir, it\u2019s, it\u2019s just, well . . .\u201dAdam\u2019s arms crossed and his right hand reached to touch his left ear, \u201cI know God forgives me, Reverend, but, well, what about Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Bible says that if you have wronged a brother or sister, go to them and ask forgiveness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI, I don\u2019t know if. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s arm slipped around his son\u2019s shoulders, \u201cI\u2019ll go with you, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah Caruthers listened in silence to Adam\u2019s account.\u00a0 His hands twisted a piece of leather while his eyes never left the boy\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m dreadful sorry, Mr. Caruthers.\u00a0 I want to tell Lila Jane how sorry I am.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah took in a large breath and then let it out slowly.\u00a0 \u201cLila Jane doesn\u2019t remember anything about that day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa said Doc Martin said she doesn\u2019t remember because of her concussion.\u00a0 I…I guess I\u2019ll have to tell her before I ask her forgiveness.\u201d\u00a0 Adam shifted nervously from one foot to another.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJosiah,\u201d Ben Cartwright had been studying the man\u2019s face for signs of anger and was greatly relieved when those signs had not appeared, \u201cif you feel it would be better for Lila Jane to, well, for sleeping dogs to be left to lie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s hesitated and then set the leather in his hand down with a swift and sudden movement.\u00a0 He sent Ben an inquiring glance and then stood.\u00a0 \u201cIf the boy feels the need to apologize, well, child, I\u2019ll show you up to Lila Jane\u2019s room.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Ben\u2019s single utterance both asked and offered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need to Pa and, um, I guess I\u2019d best do it alone if you and Mister Caruthers don\u2019t mind.\u201d\u00a0 \u00a0Adam straightened his back and followed Josiah.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Returning to the workroom, Josiah sat down opposite Ben.\u00a0 Ben cleared his throat and began, \u201cJosiah\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s father shook his head, \u201cBen, I am not holding anything against the boy.\u00a0 Lila Jane, well, if I\u2019ve told her once I\u2019ve told her a thousand times to look before crossing a street.\u00a0 I\u2019ve been telling her that since she learned to walk, and still, she doesn\u2019t more than she does. \u201d Josiah shook his head again, \u201cShe\u2019s always been a little heedless, but, well…\u201d\u00a0 A sheen filled Josiah\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 \u201cDoc says there\u2019s a chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEveryone in town is praying for her healing,\u201d Ben offered in reassurance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGod\u2019s already allowed her to stay with me.\u00a0 If, well, if that\u2019s all he grants, well, it will be enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGod\u2019s blessings are boundless, Josiah.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s father nodded, and both men\u2019s ears strained to focus on a conversation they could not hear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was trying to give you your mama\u2019s dancing slippers?\u201d\u00a0 The only tone in Lila Jane\u2019s voice was one of puzzled inquiry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but I was mad and didn\u2019t turn around.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause we\u2019d been arguing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did I say to make you mad this time?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s cheeks flushed.\u00a0 \u201cJust, well, something, well, it wasn\u2019t exactly what you said but what you. . .does it really matter?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt must\u2019ve mattered to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes rose to Lila Jane\u2019s face for the first time since he had entered her room and seen her propped up against the pillows on her bed.\u00a0 His hand came up and rubbed the bridge of his nose as he saw a slight smile flicker on the girl\u2019s lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, well, it shouldn\u2019t have, and I\u2019m sorry my being mad got you hurt, especially hurt so bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane sighed.\u00a0 \u201cThe man driving the wagon came to say he was sorry.\u00a0 Papa and I had a long talk after.\u00a0 There are lots of things that could change an accident, but, well, it wasn\u2019t his fault and, well, it wasn\u2019t really yours.\u00a0 It was some my own fault, but being mad at myself doesn\u2019t help much either.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you\u2019re not mad at me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shook her head.\u00a0 \u201cNot anymore than I\u2019m mad at me or that driver or God even and not right now anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you\u2019ll forgive me?\u201d\u00a0 The question was voiced very softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A ghost of Lila Jane\u2019s normal smirk settled on her face.\u00a0 \u201cI will if you tell me what I said to make you mad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gulped.\u00a0 \u201cYou won\u2019t forgive me if I don\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI might not.\u00a0 I know I will for certain if you tell me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam felt the blood rush into his face as he did.\u00a0 Downstairs the two fathers heard the sound of feminine laughter and sighed in relief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright came down the stairs and stopped short at the sight of his eldest son sitting on the low table before the fireplace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u00a0 Whatever are you doing up so early, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2018ve been thinking.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben walked to his son\u2019s side and eased down beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d he said softly while placing his arm around the boy\u2019s shoulders, \u201cI thought you had accepted that you are forgiven.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned slightly toward his father.\u00a0 \u201cI have, Pa, really I have, but I\u2019ve been thinking, and I need you to listen.\u00a0 Pa, please listen before you say no.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBefore I say no to what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I want to, no, I need to do something.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it you feel you need to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot go with you to San Francisco. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot go to San Francisco!\u00a0 Why ever not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, hear me out, please, Pa.\u00a0 I want to go and stay with Mr. Caruthers and help him instead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d Ben took his son\u2019s face in both his hands, \u201cyou do not have anything to atone for, nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not that, Pa, really.\u00a0 Mr. Caruthers, well, you know when somebody\u2019s hurt it takes a lot extra, and Doc Martin said all that about care and exercises and such, and Mr. Caruthers needs to work, and I know I could help.\u201d\u00a0 The words tumbled from Adam\u2019s lips without pause.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, it will be nearly a month that we will be gone.\u00a0 A month, son, that\u2019s too long.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed and then retorted, \u201cYou were gone months when you went to New Orleans.\u00a0\u00a0 You left Hoss and me for months \u2018cause you felt you had to go.\u201d\u00a0 The challenge made Adam swiftly dropped his eyes from his father\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben inhaled sharply but bit back an angry reply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean any disrespect, Pa.\u00a0 I know why you felt that way; it\u2019s just, well, I feel like I need to do this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed.\u00a0 \u201cTaking responsibility for someone else\u2019s child is not done lightly, Adam.\u00a0 Josiah Caruthers might not be prepared to take responsibility for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you\u2019ll let me ask him.\u00a0 Please, Pa, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed a hand on Adam\u2019s neck and brushed his thumb against the boy\u2019s hair.\u00a0 When was the last time he pleaded for something.\u00a0 I can\u2019t even remember.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease. Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced upward and saw his wife on the stairs.\u00a0 He studied her face and then said, \u201cI\u2019ll consider it, Adam.\u00a0 I\u2019m not saying that you may; I\u2019m saying that I will give the matter some thought.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had learned long ago to tell when his father\u2019s maybe<\/em> was really a no<\/em> and when it held the possibility of consent.\u00a0 His eyes brightened.\u00a0 \u201cThanks, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Adam stood.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll get a head start on the morning chores.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes followed his son out the door and then watched his wife descend the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you hear what he wants to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0 Marie\u2019s voice was soft and soothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was looking forward to this trip more than anyone,\u201d Ben declared.\u00a0 Marie tilted her head slightly.\u00a0 \u201cWell, as much as you are at least.\u00a0 He\u2019s chosen this for his punishment.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps it not that simple, mon cher<\/em>.\u201d\u00a0 Ben snorted.\u00a0 Marie reached out and placed her hand on her husband\u2019s arm.\u00a0 \u201cOne of the good sisters once told me that the only way to clean away the stain of hate is with an act of love.\u00a0 Perhaps, Adam wants to clean his heart.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u201dHate! Really, Marie!\u201d\u00a0 Ben snorted again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA childish hate born of temper but one held for very long inside.\u201d\u00a0 She raised her hand to place her palm against his cheek.\u00a0 \u201cWhen you first came to me in New Orleans, there was much anger and hate in me.\u00a0 I know of hate,\u201d she smiled, \u201cand you have taught me of love.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou think I should let him do this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think you should talk to Josiah Caruthers.\u00a0 From what you have said of him, he is a good man.\u00a0 If two good men think and talk together, the right decision should come.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed his hand over his wife\u2019s and turned her palm toward his lips.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll go and talk to him after breakfast.\u201d\u00a0 He stood, and she encircled his neck with her arms. Rising onto her toes she whispered into his ear, \u201cIt\u2019s your own fault, you know, mon cher.<\/em>\u00a0 It is you who have taught him what is right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head and then smiled.\u00a0 His only answer was a very long kiss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben rapped on the door and then walked into his eldest son\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy looked back over his shoulder as he answered, \u201cYes, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want to talk to you, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard the serious tone of his father\u2019s voice and turned quickly toward Ben.\u00a0 \u201cYou haven\u2019t changed your mind, have you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d\u00a0 Ben closed the distance between himself and his son.\u00a0 \u201cNo, I have not changed my mind, but I want you to know that you can still change yours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam released his trapped breath slowly.\u00a0 \u201cPa, I… I … part of me wants to go with all of you tomorrow, but, well, I need to do this, Pa, really, I do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I have agreed that you may.\u201d\u00a0 Ben drew in a deep breath and gently nudged Adam into a seated position on the bed.\u00a0 He sat next to the boy and slid his arm around his son\u2019s waist.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, you understand that you will be under Mr. Caruthers authority?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be good, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 A smile flickered on Adam\u2019s lips.\u00a0 \u201cYou know I can be a good boy some of the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cocked an eyebrow and looked down his nose.\u00a0 Then he smiled.\u00a0 \u201cMost of the time.\u00a0 Still you have your moments, so I want you to understand that if needed you will accept Josiah\u2019s chastisement as you would mine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dropped his eyes and then looked up again into his father\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cYes, sir, I understand.\u00a0 I plan to be a help to him, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you shall be.\u201d Ben smiled and ruffled his son\u2019s hair. \u201cSince Hop Sing is traveling with us, you know you can\u2019t just decide at some point to return home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve spoken to Mr. Hampton at the telegraph office.\u00a0 You will send me a telegram every fifth day.\u00a0 Do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019ll be a lot of money, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat is my concern not yours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I\u2019ll make a deal with you, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben snorted.\u00a0 \u201cA deal?\u00a0 What kind of deal?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll telegraph you every fifth day if you\u2019ll telegraph me back each time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s dark eyes sparked.\u00a0 \u201cYou shall telegraph every fifth day, young man, or answer to me when we return.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa, every fifth day.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s assurance came immediately upon his registering Ben\u2019s tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes lightened.\u00a0 \u201cAnd I shall return your telegrams.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s face brightened.\u00a0 \u201cThanks, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben suddenly pulled Adam into his arms.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll miss you, child.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll miss you, Pa, all of you.\u201d\u00a0 Adam returned the hug.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Releasing his hold, Ben stood and moved his hands to cup Adam\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cI suppose there\u2019ll be far too many times when I\u2019ll be missing you now that you\u2019re growing into a man.\u201d Ben sighed deeply.\u00a0 \u201cBut that\u2019s the way of things.\u201d\u00a0 Ben shook his head slightly and then smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m proud of you, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want you to be, Pa; I always want you to be proud of me.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice was barely a whisper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben simply patted his cheek and then cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cBe a good boy then and get to bed.\u00a0 We have to be up early tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam jumped to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cYes, sir, Pa, sir, right away, sir.\u201d\u00a0 He giggled and ducked away as Ben\u2019s hand came toward his backside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you come.\u201d Little Joe Cartwright peered down at his brother from his mother\u2019s lap.\u00a0 Marie shifted nervously and slipped her arm firmly about his waist.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Little Buddy,\u201d Adam replied stepping closer to the side of the wagon.\u00a0 \u201cRemember we told you I\u2019m going to stay and help Mr. Caruthers and Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three-year-old shook his head.\u00a0 What he had been told and what he was capable of understanding were entirely different, but now he had felt the emotion around him as his parents and Hoss had said good-bye to Adam, and the carpetbag at his brother\u2019s feet had brought an awareness that the impending separation was beyond the normal.\u00a0 \u201cWant you to come!\u201d\u00a0 Little Joe declared in an imperial tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And I want to come.<\/em>\u00a0The thought flashed through Adam\u2019s head, but he simply said, \u201cI know you do, but I can\u2019t.\u00a0 I have a job to do here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had already learned the power of the words \u201cjob to do\u201d when it came to taking away the people he wanted with him.\u00a0 His eyes immediately filled and overflowed.\u00a0 \u201cWant you to come.\u201d\u00a0 This time the tone was pleading.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I can\u2019t.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice carried its own plea.\u00a0 He reached out and used his thumb to wipe tears off of his baby brother\u2019s cheeks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa make you.\u00a0 Pa, make Adam come!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wouldn\u2019t I like to<\/em>!\u00a0 \u201cNo, Little Joe.\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s voice was firm.\u00a0 \u201cAdam is staying here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe recognized his father\u2019s tone.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThen Joe stay here too!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Various sighs and exclamations issued from the other members of the Cartwright family.\u00a0 Adam placed his hands around the child\u2019s waist and pulled him into his arms.\u00a0 He whispered into the small ear.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll miss you, little brother, so much, but I need you to be a big boy like Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe sniffed and looked at his brother.\u00a0 There was never a time when he did not want to be a big boy like his brothers.\u00a0 He sniffed again, \u201cHave job to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam squeezed his brother to him and said, \u201cA very important job.\u00a0 Now Hoss and Pa and your ma and even Hop Sing will take good care of you.\u00a0 You\u2019ll have a good time, and when you come back you can tell me stories about everything you did.\u00a0 You know only big boys get to go on trips.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe chewed his lower lip and glanced at the people in the wagon.\u00a0 \u201cWho take care of Adam?\u201d he asked aware that everyone who took care of him was in that wagon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah Caruthers had come out of his shop door and heard the little boy\u2019s plaintive inquiry.\u00a0 He stepped up behind Adam and said confidently, \u201cYour brother will be taken care of, little one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe stared over Adam\u2019s shoulder into the face of the man behind him.\u00a0 \u201cYou strong?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah smiled.\u00a0 He placed Joe\u2019s hand on his bicep.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m strong.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe\u2019s sigh was loud enough for everyone to hear.\u00a0 \u201cOkay.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hugged the little boy again and then handed him to Marie.\u00a0 \u201cBe good, Little Joe.\u00a0 You too, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben decided a quick departure was best.\u00a0 \u201cYou be good too, Adam,\u201d he said and smiled his finale good-bye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood very still as he watched the wagon travel out of sight.\u00a0 Josiah stood with him.\u00a0 Then Josiah picked up Adam\u2019s carpet bag and placed an arm around the boy\u2019s shoulders.\u00a0\u00a0 They turned together and walked toward the shop.\u00a0 Josiah made a point of not noticing the tears filing the boy\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rapped softly on the door and then waited.\u00a0 When Lila Jane responded, he pushed the door open and stepped inside the girl\u2019s bedroom.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Lila Jane sat in her bed propped up by pillows.\u00a0 She still looked pale, and her legs beneath the bed quilt remained unnaturally still.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought we might play checkers,\u201d Adam offered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane set the book in her hand down on the bedside table.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve never learned to play checkers,\u201d she replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t play checkers!\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s astonishment was clear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, and I don\u2019t play marbles either,\u201d Lila Jane said with an affronted snort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, marbles is one thing with you being a girl and all, but checkers\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I don\u2019t know how, so that\u2019s that.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane turned her gaze from Adam to the window.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stared at her and then swallowed.\u00a0 \u201cI could teach you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt would be something new to do.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane bit her lip at the thought of why she so wanted something new to do while lying in bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine then.\u201d\u00a0 Adam dragged a chair over to the bed and set the checkerboard on the quilt beside Lila Jane.\u00a0 His fingers nimbly set the checkers in place as he explained the basics of the game.\u00a0 Four games later, Lila Jane was proving herself an apt pupil, and Adam had begun to actually focus on his own moves.\u00a0 As he cleared the board of Lila Jane\u2019s last piece, he heard a deep sigh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a nice enough game, but I like chess better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyebrow flew upward.\u00a0 \u201cYou play chess?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane smirked at the tone in his voice.\u00a0 \u201cMy grandfather taught me when I was four.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFour!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, four, but I didn\u2019t really get good until I was seven or so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted and then grinned, \u201cI was good by time I was six.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally.\u201d\u00a0 Adam stated firmly.\u00a0 When Lila Jane simply stared at him, he cleared his throat, \u201cI don\u2019t play often though.\u00a0 Pa really doesn\u2019t have the time, and Hoss doesn\u2019t play.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather doesn\u2019t either.\u00a0 I haven\u2019t played since Grandfather got sick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour grandfather is sick?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shook her head slowly.\u00a0 \u201cNo, he\u2019s not sick anymore.\u00a0 He died.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I\u2019m sorry.\u201d\u00a0 Adam said automatically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane rubbed the bridge of her nose with her pointer finger.\u00a0 Deciding to continue, she said, \u201cIt was the yellow fever.\u00a0 Mother made Father take me to stay in the country.\u00a0 She stayed to nurse Grandfather.\u00a0\u00a0 They argued about it, but he was her father, and she loved him.\u00a0 She convinced Father that he had to take care of me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother?\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s question was whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe died five days after Grandfather.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam started to say he was sorry, but Lila Jane had turned her gaze toward the window, so he swallowed and sat silent as the seconds passed.\u00a0 Then he asked, \u201cIs that why you came west?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why Father came west; I came because I couldn\u2019t convince him not to,\u201d Lila Jane stated with a brittle edge to her voice.\u00a0 Then she leaned back into the pillows that supported her and said, \u201cI\u2019m feeling awfully tired.\u00a0 I think I\u2019ll rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see if your father has anything he needs me to do.\u201d\u00a0 Adam rose and gathered up the checkers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe says that you\u2019ve been a great help to him these past few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam paused for he heard a thread of bitterness in her tone.\u00a0 \u201cI hope that I have.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Lila Jane offered no reply, so Adam made his way out of the room and down the stairs to the shop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think that will be a problem,\u201d Adam paused to bite his lower lip and then continued, \u201cbut I really should ask Mr. Caruthers before I guarantee delivery by Monday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is Josiah?\u201d\u00a0 Hiram Hanley asked impatiently.\u00a0 He did not like dealing with some temporary child assistant; he considered himself much too important a personage for that.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s upstairs with Lila Jane,\u201d Adam replied and watched Mr. Hanley roll his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cHer legs have to be exercised three times a day.\u201d\u00a0 The edge in Adam\u2019s voice would have displeased his father as it was being used toward an adult.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd of course one of those times must be during business hours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sarcasm in the man\u2019s voice lit Adam\u2019s temper, but he said in a controlled and precise voice, \u201cI\u2019ll go upstairs and ask him if there will be any problem, Mr. Hanley.\u00a0 It will only take a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hiram snorted but motioned with a wave of his hand toward the back door of the shop.\u00a0 Adam turned sharply on his heel and made his way through the workroom and up the stairs to the Caruthers living quarters.\u00a0 He saw that the door to Lila Jane\u2019s room was halfway open before the sound of a whimper reached his ears.\u00a0 He stopped in the middle of the hall and stood indecisively shifting from foot to foot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop, Father, just stop.\u00a0 It\u2019s no use anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know what the doctor said.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know he said maybe.\u00a0 Well, maybe it won\u2019t snow this winter, and maybe there\u2019s a vein of gold under this store, and maybe some prince from Europe will ask me to be his wife, or maybe. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s tone was as stern as Adam had ever heard it be.\u00a0 \u201cThe doctor said it will still be weeks before we know if your back is healing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr if it isn\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUntil we know differently, we will do what is needed to keep your muscles from wasting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard something clatter to the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s your time that is wasting, Father!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s voice had filled with petulance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf that is so, it is my time to waste, daughter!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut your business. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam is tending to the shop.\u00a0 The business will be fine, Lila Jane. So let us continue.\u00a0\u00a0 Now, child, there is no reason for tears.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned on his heel and darted back down the stairs.\u00a0 Striding through the workroom and back into the shop, he announced in a confident voice, \u201cYou shall have those boots by Monday, Mr. Hanley.\u00a0 I can deliver them to your office if you\u2019d like.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hanley shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cNo need.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be by after lunch on Monday.\u00a0 You can let Josiah know I\u2019ll pay him then.\u00a0 Good day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood day, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s right hand tugged at his left ear as he watched the man leave the shop.\u00a0\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s voice echoed in his mind as he began to sweep out the shop floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t suppose you would be interested in learning to be a cobbler, now would you, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah Caruthers looked over at the boy and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shifted and then said, \u201cWell, sir, I can\u2019t really say that I would.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah laughed.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s all right, boy.\u00a0 Though I would be glad to teach you the trade if you had an interest.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, sir, but no<\/em> thank you.\u201d\u00a0 Adam finished the last of the milk in his cup and set it back on the table.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll clean up these dishes and then see that the wood boxes are filled.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, there\u2019s something I\u2019d rather you\u2019d do this afternoon.\u00a0 There\u2019s enough wood in the boxes for this evening and for fixing tomorrow\u2019s breakfast.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, sir.\u00a0 What is it you would rather I do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlay chess with Lila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah watched the boy\u2019s face and continued before Adam had a chance to answer.\u00a0 \u201cThe days are hanging rather heavy on her hands.\u00a0 When we were doing her exercises this morning, well, the best help you could be to me this afternoon is to give her a distraction for a few hours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed what he had intended to say.\u00a0 \u201cYes, sir, but, well, I haven\u2019t seen a chess set about.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, we have a chess set.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah rose, exited the kitchen, and returned with a hinged cherry wood box in his hands.\u00a0 \u201cTake this up to Lila Jane\u2019s room, and, Adam, don\u2019t let her tell you she doesn\u2019t want to play.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah smiled and clapped Adam on the back.\u00a0 \u201cI imagine you can wheedle her into it if you try.\u00a0 It\u2019s a useful skill, wheedling women; think of this as a chance to practice.\u201d\u00a0 Adam looked askance, and Josiah added, \u201cI advise the use of those dimples I remember seeing once or twice.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 He chuckled at the affronted look on the boy\u2019s face and departed for his workshop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam trudged up the stairs to Lila Jane\u2019s bedroom and knocked on the door.\u00a0 Hearing an affirmative response, he slipped into the room leaving the door open behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane lay in her bed propped into a sitting position by a pile of pillows.\u00a0 She held nothing in her hands and simply stared out the window.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour Pa sent me up.\u00a0 I guess I\u2019ve earned some playtime.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s gaze drifted from the window to her visitor.\u00a0 \u201cPlaytime?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said we should play chess.\u201d\u00a0 He held out the box in his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane flung her gaze back toward the window and said sharply, \u201cI\u2019m too tired for chess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bit his lip and then retorted, \u201cToo tired or too lazy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLazy!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr scared.\u00a0 I bet you\u2019re scared I\u2019ll beat the pants off you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane turned her face toward Adam; upon it was a smirk he remembered well.\u00a0 \u201cIf you haven\u2019t noticed, I\u2019m not wearing any pants.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam raised his chin an inch and returned her smirk.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll beat the drawers off you then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if I said I wasn\u2019t wearing any drawers either?\u201d\u00a0 She watched a blush rise in his cheeks and giggled gleefully.\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t worry; I\u2019m properly attired for company at least in my current state of health, and we can always consider you the hired help.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe hired help gets paid,\u201d Adam retorted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I suppose you\u2019re suffering more from indentured servitude.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s just say I have to obey your father as much as you do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane cocked her head to the right.\u00a0 \u201cOnly as much as I do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted and dragged a chair to the side of the bed.\u00a0 \u201cHe said for us to play, so let\u2019s play.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if I beat the pants off you?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane tossed challenged toward him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cIt won\u2019t be the first time you\u2019ve seen me without them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s mouth dropped open at the reference.\u00a0 Adam grinned wickedly at the thought he had managed to leave Lila Jane speechless.\u00a0 He set the box on the bed between then and unfastened the brass clasp.\u00a0 Lifting the lid he saw that it could be brought back to lie flat and form a chess board.\u00a0 Around the edges of the inlaid squares, were nested the most magnificently carved chessmen, Adam had ever seen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He reached out and picked up the black king.\u00a0 \u201cThey\u2019re beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy great-great grandfather carved them.\u00a0 The black army is French and the white is English.\u00a0 The oak they\u2019re carved from is English.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s voice was soft, and Adam heard it tremble as she added, \u201cThis was my grandfather\u2019s greatest treasure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s gaze left the carved wood and traveled to Lila Jane\u2019s face.\u00a0 The tears were slipping down her cheeks.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps not the greatest.\u00a0 He had a daughter and a granddaughter who loved him very much.\u00a0 Pa would say those were his real treasures.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane closed her eyes and whispered, \u201cI can see his hands holding them, moving them.\u201d\u00a0 A sigh came from deep inside her.\u00a0 \u201cThey\u2019re mine now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have a compass that belonged to my grandfather.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s eyes opened. \u201cIs he dead?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but I\u2019ve never met him; I mean, I was a baby when we left Boston, and I don\u2019t have any memory of seeing him.\u00a0 He writes me though.\u00a0 He was a sea captain.\u00a0 His ship was called The Wanderer<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone told me your mother died when you were born.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe it\u2019s better not to remember.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head slowly.\u00a0 They sat for a few minutes with eyes focused on the exquisitely carved chessmen.\u00a0 Then, Adam said matter-of-factly, \u201cYou can be white\u201d and began to set the pieces in their proper places on the board.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam folded the telegram and stuffed it into his back pocket.\u00a0 He turned and headed back toward the cobbler\u2019s shop trying to push thoughts of his family and the fun they were having from his mind.\u00a0 By the time he opened the door to the shop, he was breathing quickly and shallowly with his sight blurred by a film of tears.\u00a0 He darted through the empty shop and workroom.\u00a0 His eyes focused on the woodshed, and he dashed inside.\u00a0 Slamming the door behind him, he leaned back against its wooden planks and slid down.\u00a0 Drawing his knees to his chin, he buried his face in his arms.\u00a0 He focused on breathing in and out slowly and steadily until he knew he would not embarrass himself by sobbing.\u00a0 He raised his head and sat listening to the mundane sounds around him.\u00a0 The first time he heard his name called, he did not react; the second time he only shifted on the hard dirt floor.\u00a0\u00a0 A third call did not come, but after a few minutes Adam rose and exited the woodshed.\u00a0\u00a0 After a few more minutes the sounds of an axe splitting wood filled the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u00a0 ADAM!\u201d\u00a0 Josiah Caruthers voice pierced the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam buried the ax in the stump and responded, \u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 His chin remained down, and his eyes focused on the pile of split wood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need you to watch the shop.\u00a0 I have an errand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s answer was immediate and respectful, but he made no move toward the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah stepped down from the porch and closed the distance between them.\u00a0 \u201cDid you get your telegram sent?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd did you receive one?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWas there bad news, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 Josiah stepped closer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMissing them badly, are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned his back toward Josiah who placed a hand on his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t really think about how hard it\u2019d be not to see any of them for so long.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s hand gave a light squeeze.\u00a0 \u201cIf there was a way, I\u2019d send you straight to them, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head again.\u00a0 \u201cIt was my choice to stay here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019m selfish enough to be glad you did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned back toward Josiah.\u00a0 \u201cAre you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have been so much help to me, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve tried, but, well, it just seems the things I\u2019ve done are so unimportant.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s hand moved to cradle Adam\u2019s neck.\u00a0 \u201cAdam Cartwright, nothing you have done for me and Lila Jane is unimportant, and we shall always be grateful for your presence here in our time of need.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam could not doubt the sincerity in Josiah\u2019s voice.\u00a0 \u201cThank you, sir.\u00a0 Not just for saying that, but Pa said taking responsibility for another man\u2019s child, well, he said it is not done lightly.\u00a0\u00a0 You, well, you\u2019ve never blamed me for what happened to Lila Jane, and you let me try to, well, to do what I could.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah smiled and for the first time Adam saw a resemblance between Lila Jane and her father.\u00a0 \u201cAs I told you, Adam, I\u2019m a selfish man.\u00a0 Now, if you get in there and look after my business, I can be on my way.\u201d Adam smiled and dashed off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The first person to enter the shop was Paul Martin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Doctor Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Adam.\u00a0 Is Josiah in the back?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir.\u00a0 He\u2019s on an errand, but Lila Jane\u2019s upstairs, of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll just make my way upstairs then.\u201d\u00a0 The doctor had passed Adam when he heard the boy\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoc Martin, can I ask you something?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d\u00a0 Paul turned and studied the boy before him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI, well, I just wanted to ask, well, is there really a chance that Lila Jane might walk again?\u201d\u00a0 Adam shifted nervously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 I\u2019d say that at this point the odds were about seventy to thirty that she won\u2019t.\u00a0 Still there is a definite chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes her, umm, I mean would her believing she could make a difference?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA patient\u2019s outlook always has an effect on that patient\u2019s recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shifted again, and his arms crossed on his chest.\u00a0\u00a0 Tugging his left ear, he stated softly, \u201cI think her outlook is getting darker.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Doctor Martin sighed, \u201cThat would not be unexpected.\u00a0 It\u2019s not an easy thing to face.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think, well, she does less and less.\u00a0 Things like reading and sewing and knitting and such.\u00a0 Things she can do sitting in bed.\u00a0 Shouldn\u2019t she be feeling stronger and able to do more not less?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPhysically, except for the condition with her legs, Lila Jane has regained most of her strength.\u00a0 If she is doing less, well, the reason is of the spirit not the flesh.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s dwelling on what she can\u2019t do until she doesn\u2019t feel like doing what she can?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin nodded.\u00a0 \u201cAn astute observation, young man.\u00a0 We must try to help her focus on something beside her inability to walk.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs she well enough to sit up somewhere besides her bed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul rubbed his chin.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll discuss that with her father after I examine her today.\u201d\u00a0 Paul smiled and patted Adam\u2019s arm.\u00a0 \u201cThings will get better, son; don\u2019t fret.\u00a0 Send Josiah up if he returns.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Paul noticed an odd gleam in Adam\u2019s eye before turning and heading for the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced over to where Lila Jane sat in the leather chair that had been brought down from the sitting room and placed in the kitchen.\u00a0 This was the second day that her father had brought her downstairs to the kitchen to spend the afternoon.\u00a0 He picked up a large, wooden bowl of potatoes, carried it to Lila Jane, and plopped it onto her lap.\u00a0 \u201cThese need peeling.\u00a0 I\u2019ll get you a knife.\u201d\u00a0 He turned on his heel and returned in seconds with a knife and an empty pot.\u00a0 \u201cHere!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s face still held a startled look.\u00a0 \u201cWhat?\u00a0 I…\u201d she sputtered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t peel potatoes?\u201d Adam asked sarcastically.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t see why not, and if the problem is that you don\u2019t know how, well, I can teach you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know how!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane retorted with a snort, \u201cI just don\u2019t feel… \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care if you feel like it or not; it needs doing.\u00a0 I don\u2019t much feel like chopping wood, but that\u2019s what I\u2019m going to be doing for the same reason.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was going to say that I don\u2019t feel up to it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cToo bad!\u00a0 You do it, or it doesn\u2019t get done.\u00a0 Unless, of course, your father stops working and does it because you\u2019re too lazy.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s hands had settled on his hips, and he stared down his nose at the girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLazy!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s cheeks flushed as her indignation rose.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s the second time you\u2019ve called me lazy, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 How dare you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow dare I overlook the dozens of other times you\u2019ve been lazy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not lazy!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s exclamation was both loud and vehement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen get busy!\u201d\u00a0 Adam turned and strode out the door.\u00a0 He stopped on the porch and strained to hear what might be happening in the kitchen.\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s voice carried out the open window.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe told me to peel potatoes!\u00a0 He called me lazy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah Caruthers\u2019s voice followed.\u00a0 \u201cIf you peel them, daughter, you prove him wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stopped eavesdropping and strolled to the wood pile whistling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard wood being split before he rounded the corner and gulped.\u00a0 He hurried forward and called, \u201cI\u2019ll finish that, Mr. Caruthers!\u201d\u00a0 Josiah set down the ax and stared at the boy.\u00a0 Adam gulped and added, \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere have you been, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s voice held an edge that Adam had never heard before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI… I needed to get something.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t think it would take so long.\u00a0 I know I was to chop the wood, but…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not the wood, Adam.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah drew in a long breath and let it out slowly.\u00a0 \u201cYou are not a servant and may choose not to do any task I ask of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, sir, I\u2019m to do what I\u2019m told, but, well, I just got carried away with something else.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry; I\u2019ll get to the chores right away.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s sentences tumbled from his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did not tell me that you were leaving.\u00a0 I had no idea where you were or why.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s words were clipped, and his eyes sparked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI worried you,\u201d Adam mumbled in realization of the source of Josiah Caruthers\u2019s anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA great deal!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam eyes dropped to the dirt, and he shifted his weight from foot to foot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes your father allow you to go off without letting anyone know where you are going?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head automatically.\u00a0 \u201cNo, sir.\u00a0 That\u2019s one of his main rules.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m responsible for you, Adam.\u00a0 In this matter, I deserve the same respect and consideration.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes flew up.\u00a0 \u201cI, I didn\u2019t mean any disrespect!\u00a0\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry; it won\u2019t happen again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not that I would tie you to the house, child, but I need to know where you will be and the reason that takes you there.\u201d\u00a0 The harshness had left Josiah\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u00a0 Truly, I know better.\u201d Adam gave a sheepish half-smile.\u00a0 \u201cPa has had a number of discussions with my backside about it.\u201d\u00a0 His gaze once again focused on the dirt at his feet.\u00a0 \u201cIf you…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, but if you ever just disappear on me again, I\u2019ll not let it pass.\u00a0 Is that clear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, where have you been and why?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI needed something for what I was working on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just what have you been working on?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt would be easier to show you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah followed Adam into the small outbuilding that served mainly as stable and storeroom.\u00a0\u00a0 In the empty half-stall was Adam\u2019s project.\u00a0 A wooden chair from the kitchen now had two large wheels on each side and several smaller alterations.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI needed two hinges to fix a brake.\u201d\u00a0 Adam looked at Josiah when the man made no answer.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s stable, Mr. Caruthers.\u00a0 I\u2019ve sat in it, and it will work, and Lila Jane can get about.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA wheelchair.\u00a0 I thought about…they\u2019re so dear, and I hoped. . .\u201d Josiah seemed to speak to himself as much as to Adam as he walked over and inspected the contraption.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI should have asked you first.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s tone was deflated and flat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, this is wonderful.\u00a0 You\u2019re a clever lad, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw one once.\u00a0 The man even let me ride in it a few minutes.\u00a0 I remembered about it and thought I could rig something like it, so she wouldn\u2019t have to be carried about all the time seeing as how you always have to do it.\u201d\u00a0 Adam swallowed.\u00a0 \u201cI should have spoken to you first, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI had thought to wait just a bit longer until, well, things were more certain since it would have to come all the way from California.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis isn\u2019t as good as a real one, but it should do until, well, until, that is, if she, umm, needs a better one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill it be ready by suppertime?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, but the wood…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see to the wood, boy; you see to my baby\u2019s surprise.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah slapped Adam on the back and left humming his favorite hymn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam set down his fork and glanced across the table at Josiah.\u00a0 He lifted his eyebrow slightly, and Josiah returned the barest of nods.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMay I be excused?\u201d\u00a0 Adam inquired politely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 Lila Jane and I will see to the dishes tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A light scowl crossed Lila Jane\u2019s face.\u00a0 Seated in a chair, she was quite capable of drying the dishes she was handed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I have an errand, sir.\u00a0 I won\u2019t be long.\u201d\u00a0 Adam rose and pushed his chair back to the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat errand?\u201d\u00a0 It was Lila Jane who demanded an explanation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat is Adam\u2019s business, daughter,\u201d Josiah admonished softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Father…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane snorted and flounced her upper body; Adam smirked at her as he left.\u00a0 Lila Jane resisted the urge to stick her tongue out at him only because her father had come to her side to move her nearer the sink.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pushed the wheeled-chair across the hard pack dirt between the outbuilding and the back entrance that led into the kitchen stopping as he reached the edge of the slightly elevated porch.\u00a0 Lifting the wheels up onto the planks, he decided that tomorrow\u2019s project would be a little ramp, so that Lila Jane could easily be rolled in and out of the house.\u00a0 He smiled enjoying a deep satisfaction at the thought that he had truly done something to improve Lila Jane and her father\u2019s situation.\u00a0\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s voice drifted out the open window to his ears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should have made him tell you, Father.\u00a0 I mean he shouldn\u2019t be able to just go off like that with barely a word.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLeave it be, Lila Jane.\u00a0 That is my decision not yours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s opening the door brought the conversation inside the kitchen to an end.\u00a0 Pushing the chair in front of him, Adam entered the room.\u00a0 With a flourish of his hand, he said, \u201cIt\u2019s for you, my lady!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d\u00a0 The exclamation was shrill and piercing and repeated twice before Lila Jane threw the plate in her hands at the doorframe behind Adam\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLILA JANE!\u201d\u00a0 It was the first time Adam had ever heard Josiah Caruthers raise his voice in anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t !\u00a0 I hate it!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did not wait to hear more.\u00a0 He turned and dashed out the door.\u00a0 Having nowhere else to go, he retreated into the outbuilding.\u00a0 Kicking the half-wall of the stall, he threw himself down in the straw at the back of the area where he had toiled most of the day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I won\u2019t cry; I won\u2019t cry!\u00a0 I won\u2019t<\/em>!\u00a0 His fist pounded the dirt floor as he worked to control his breathing.\u00a0 When he had gained control, he lay completely still with his head pillowed on his crossed arms.\u00a0 Later, when he heard the door open and footsteps approaching, he did not lift his head.\u00a0 Then he felt a hand on his back and rolled over to look at Josiah Caruthers who had gone down on his heels next to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d Adam proclaimed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve no reason to be sorry, none at all.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah shook his head to emphasize his words, and then seated himself next to the boy.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, I\u2019m the one who is sorry.\u00a0 I should have realized… son, Lila Jane just wasn\u2019t ready.\u00a0 I should have prepared her.\u00a0 I am very sorry you had to go through that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf she doesn\u2019t want…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, the only thing Lila Jane wants is to have back the use of her legs.\u00a0 Seeing the chair, well, I think for the first time she truly faced the possibility that she might not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pulled himself into a seated position facing Lila Jane\u2019s father. \u201cDo you think she will?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah sighed.\u00a0 \u201cOnly the Lord knows.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf she doesn\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe shall learn to live with it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several responses passed through Adam\u2019s mind, but he spoke none of them aloud.\u00a0 They sat there together in silence for a few more minutes.\u00a0 Then Josiah sighed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane has always had very poor aim; a fact for which I have repeatedly been grateful.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think she meant to hit me,\u201d Adam volunteered in Lila Jane\u2019s defense.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever count on that, Adam.\u00a0 Her mother once hit me in the stomach with a porcelain figurine.\u00a0 Lila Jane is very like her mother.\u201d\u00a0 At the look on Adam\u2019s face, he chuckled and added, \u201cIt was a quite small figurine.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah rose and offered Adam his hand.\u00a0 Adam took it and was pulled to his feet. They walked back to the kitchen.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes swept the room.\u00a0 His mouth dropped open when he saw that Lila Jane sat in her wheeled-chair facing the corner.\u00a0 Dumbfounded, he stood frozen listening to the sound of chalk against slate.\u00a0 Josiah walked passed Adam to stand behind his daughter.\u00a0 Lila Jane did not look around but raised the slate in her hand closer to Josiah\u2019s view.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA hundred more times,\u201d Josiah said firmly, \u201cbut first you have something to say to Adam.\u201d\u00a0 He turned her chair to face the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane did not raise her eyes, and her voice was the softest that Adam had ever heard it be.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry I threw the plate at you and that I was rude.\u00a0 I appreciate what you did for me and ask your forgiveness.\u201d\u00a0 She said it in one breath and then sat in silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI forgive you, Lila Jane.\u00a0 I hope, well, I hope it helps for a while, just while you need it, I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane responded and then said no more.\u00a0 Josiah turned her chair back toward the wall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shifted nervously and then said, \u201cI think I\u2019ll read for a bit and then go to bed, if that\u2019s all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u00a0 Sleep well, Adam, and thank you.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s voice was warm, and he smiled at Adam as the boy walked passed him and went up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dropped his load of wood into the wood box and then turned at the sound of wheels against wood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there something you need, Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d she shook her head, \u201cnot exactly.\u00a0 I just, well, I truly am sorry.\u00a0 I said it last night because Father made me, but today I truly do mean it, especially about throwing the plate at you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess it\u2019s a good thing you can\u2019t hit the side of a barn,\u201d he replied but softened his words with a slight smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe I didn\u2019t mean to hit you,\u201d she retorted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam crossed his arms, cocked his head, and raised his right eyebrow.\u00a0 \u201cDid you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane stuck her lower lip out and dropped her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cYes, but I\u2019m glad I didn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo am I.\u201d\u00a0 Adam laughed, and his smile deepened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I just wanted you to know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bit his lower lip.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry your father was angry with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s teeth sank into her own lip.\u00a0 \u201cHe hates rudeness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe doesn\u2019t holler much, does he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 Does your father?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam laughed.\u00a0 \u201cEveryone knows about my pa\u2019s bellowing.\u00a0 Folks in Canada know when I\u2019m in trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I have heard…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLiving in the nearest town, I suppose you have!\u201d\u00a0 They both laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s awful strict too, isn\u2019t he?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane asked as their laughter faded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPretty much.\u201d\u00a0 Adam shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s fair though, and I know the rules.\u201d\u00a0 Adam shifted and added, \u201cYou don\u2019t need to be, well, embarrassed, Lila Jane.\u00a0 We all get in trouble with our folks.\u00a0 My friends have been around before when my pa lit into me.\u201d\u00a0 Adam gave a wry grin.\u00a0 \u201cSometimes he lights into them too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I\u2019ll be careful to behave if he\u2019s around.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, he\u2019s soft on girls, so you\u2019d probably be safe anyway.\u00a0 My stepmother, now, that would be a different story.\u00a0 You\u2019d best not throw any plates when she\u2019s around.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI better get back to my chores, or I\u2019ll be the one getting fussed at.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf Father fussed, it would be at me for keeping you from them.\u00a0 Adam, thank you for fixing my chair; it will be easier on Father now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted it to be.\u201d\u00a0 Adam turned and took a step toward the door, but then stopped and turned back.\u00a0 \u201cYour pa is a real fine man, Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane lifted her chin in challenge, \u201cThere\u2019s none finer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam refused to rise to the bait and flashed his dimples instead.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll leave it a draw!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam retied his string tie and smoothed down his hair one more time.\u00a0 Satisfied with what he saw in the mirror, he looked around for Josiah Caruthers.\u00a0 Not seeing him, Adam walked to the stairs.\u00a0 He was three-quarters of the way up them when he heard the voices.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not up to it, Father, really I\u2019m not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you telling me that you are ill, daughter?\u00a0 If so, I\u2019ll send for Doctor Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNooo, I don\u2019t need a doctor, I just don\u2019t feel strong enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou plan to stay in bed all day then?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI might feel stronger later, I… I don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do know, Lila Jane,\u201d Josiah\u2019s voice had hardened, \u201cI know that you will be going to church this morning, and that is that.\u00a0 If you find it tiring, you can come home and nap.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Father…\u201d\u00a0 A distinct whine had crept into Lila Jane\u2019s voice, and Adam stopped on the final step.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s response was low-voiced and unintelligible to Adam.\u00a0 Suddenly hearing a voice in his head admonishing him for eavesdropping, Adam turned on his heel and retreated back down the stairs.\u00a0 Unsure of what to do, he puttered about the kitchen aimlessly for the next few minutes.\u00a0 Hearing the clock chime the hour, he went to the foot of the stairs and called out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Caruthers, I\u2019m leaving for church.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, wait a moment.\u201d\u00a0 A few seconds later Josiah appeared at the top of the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Lila Jane and I shall be along shortly.\u00a0 Would you please save us seats in the back row of the pews?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, sir!\u00a0 Um, Mr. Caruthers, umm, are you sure Lila Jane should attend?\u00a0 If you want to go, I could stay and sit with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane and I shall both be attending.\u00a0 If you would just see to the seats, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d Adam responded in his most respectful tone and swiftly departed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam entered the church and seated himself in the final pew grateful that it was not yet occupied.\u00a0 He nervously drummed his fingers on the wooden seat as the sanctuary filled with congregants.\u00a0 As the Reverend Marks stood, hymnal in hand for the first song, attention shifted to the door.\u00a0 Josiah carried Lila Jane to the end of the back pew, set her down, and took his seat next to Adam.\u00a0 There was not an eye in the church that was not focused on Lila Jane, and there seemed to be a collective holding of the breath by all present.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Reverend Marks cleared his throat loudly and announced the first hymn in a voice that demanded both attention and obedience.\u00a0 The congregants reluctantly turned eyes back to their hymnals, and the service began.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice rose clear and strong even though his eyes slipped sideways to catch sight of Lila Jane.\u00a0 The high color that had suffused her pale cheeks sent a wave of sympathy through the boy.\u00a0 That\u2019s why she didn\u2019t want to come!<\/em>\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes darkened.\u00a0 He too had seen the pity expressed in far too many of the assembled eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the people rose for the final hymn, Adam leaned toward Josiah and said softly, \u201cPerhaps it would be easier to take Lila Jane out now before the aisle fills.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah looked down at the boy speculatively.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps,\u201d he replied.\u00a0 Setting down his hymnal, Josiah turned lifting his daughter and carrying her out of the church and down the seven steps that had prevented him from wheeling her chair into the building.\u00a0 Walking over to where he had left the chair in the shade of an old tree, Josiah settled Lila Jane once more into the conveyance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMay we please go straight home?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s voice was soft and pleading.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there no one you would like to speak with, child?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Father, please may we leave?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam saw the indecision on Josiah\u2019s face and ventured softly, \u201cPeople will understand that, well, that she tired quickly.\u00a0 I… I could give folks your regrets.\u201d\u00a0 The music had stopped, and Adam\u2019s eyes flick toward the church door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah made his decision.\u00a0 \u201cThis being your first time out, I\u2019m sure folks will understand.\u00a0 We\u2019ll be on our way then.\u00a0 Adam, enjoy some time with your friends, lad.\u00a0 We\u2019ll have dinner in about two hours.\u00a0 You can make plans for after if you like; just let me know what they are.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam watched Josiah push Lila Jane in her chair down the street.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cQuite a contraption that.\u201d\u00a0 Adam heard the observation and recognized the voice immediately.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt should be, Skinny; I made it.\u201d\u00a0 He turned to face his friend, Ross.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShould have known you did by the sight of it.\u201d\u00a0 Ross grinned mockingly.\u00a0 \u201cDo you have to go back straight away?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m free for the next couple of hours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood!\u201d\u00a0 He clapped Adam on the back.\u00a0 \u201cCome on!\u201d\u00a0 The two boys headed in the direction of a small group of their peers who were gathered on the far side of the church.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I heard she was crippled for sure.\u00a0 Those legs are about as useless as the ones on my baby sister\u2019s rag doll.\u201d\u00a0 The observation had been made by one Micah Sparks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah!\u00a0 It\u2019s kind of a shame though; Lila Jane was a pretty gal.\u201d\u00a0 Allen Spafford shook his head to emphasis his statement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSnippety, that\u2019s what Lila Jane has always been, just plain snippety,\u201d Micah retorted.\u00a0 \u201cWay to high and mighty for me!\u201d A few glances passed among the boys present.\u00a0 They were all aware that Micah, who was nearly seventeen, had been spurned by Lila Jane at the last town dance.\u00a0 Micah saw the looks the boys exchanged and added, \u201cWell, the mighty have fallen now.\u00a0 She\u2019ll be a withered old maid being cared for by her pa. Guess the good Lord saw to Lila Jane\u2019s comeuppance.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I shall see to yours!\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice was steel and ice, and his fist landed on Micah\u2019s jaw before the other boy had a chance to recognize who had come to Lila Jane\u2019s defense.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Landing on his backside in the grass, Micah stared up at his assailant.\u00a0 \u201cCartwright!\u00a0 Why, I\u2019ll…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s foot rose and planted itself on Micah\u2019s chest pushing the boy onto his back.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ll close your blasted mouth, Sparks, or I\u2019ll break your jaw.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Micah Sparks felt the heat of Adam\u2019s glare and recognized the pure, if controlled, rage that emanated from the younger boy.\u00a0 He jerked his chin upward but held his tongue.\u00a0 After a few seconds, Adam lifted his foot, and Micah pulled himself into a half-seated position.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t fight on Sunday and not on holy ground.\u201d\u00a0 Micah\u2019s statement attempted to shift shame from himself to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drew in a deep breath, looked down at Micah like he was a slimy worm, and then turned and strode away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d\u00a0 The boy heard his name but took three more strides.\u00a0 \u201cADAM CARTWRIGHT!\u201d\u00a0 He stopped.\u00a0 Reverend Marks and Ross reached him at the same time.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, I would like a word with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReverend, Adam just, well, Micah was, um, he was speaking ill of Lila Jane, and, uh, Adam just…\u201d Ross tried mightily to intervene on his friend\u2019s behalf without actually becoming a tattletale.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust shut up, Ross!\u201d\u00a0 Adam snapped, anger still filling his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Reverend\u2019s eyes darkened.\u00a0 \u201cExcuse us, Ross.\u00a0\u00a0 Adam, please join me in the sanctuary.\u201d\u00a0 Adam followed the preacher into the church taking off his hat and holding it against his chest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw what happened, Adam,\u201d the reverend began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry for punching Micah on the church grounds and on Sunday.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s eyes remained on the reverend\u2019s boots and his tone was flat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think you were wrong only because of the day of the week or the ground beneath your feet?\u201d\u00a0 Adam swallowed and then simply shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cAdam!\u201d\u00a0 The preacher\u2019s voice smacked the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s training in respectful behavior had been thorough, and he immediately rectified his mistake.\u00a0 \u201cNo, sir, but he deserved it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, why did you strike Micah?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam wanted to start a litany of Micah Spark\u2019s transgressions, present and past, but as he looked up through his lashes at the pastor\u2019s face, he said simply, \u201cI lost my temper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that, Adam, is where the wrong lies.\u00a0 Sometimes, well, our Lord\u2019s temper caused him to drive the money changers from the temple, and I shall not preach to you that there is never a need for one man to strike another, but you did not strike Micah because of need but out of a lack of control.\u00a0 That is why you need to kneel at that rail and speak to God.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Reverend.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll give you some privacy then, child.\u201d\u00a0 Placing his hand beneath Adam\u2019s chin, he lifted the boy\u2019s eyes to his.\u00a0 \u201cListen for his answers, Adam, and accept his forgiveness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam walked out of the church and saw Ross sitting on the top step obviously waiting for him.\u00a0 He scanned the nearly empty churchyard and then sat down beside his friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs the reverend going to talk to Mr. Caruthers or wait and speak to your pa?\u201d Ross inquired immediately.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think neither, but they\u2019ll both hear about it for sure; there were plenty of folks who saw.\u201d\u00a0 Adam picked at a splinter of wood in the plank beneath his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll probably be okay with Mr. Caruthers if you tell him that you were defending Lila Jane, and your pa, well, by the time he hears he probably will only fuss some,\u201d Ross volunteered by way of reassurance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged and continued picking at the wood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d Ross\u2019s voice dropped to a whisper, \u201care you sweet on Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s head snapped up.\u00a0 \u201cSweet on Lila Jane!\u00a0 What in blazes!\u00a0 No! I\u2019m not sweet on Lila Jane.\u00a0 Why ever would you ask that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I, I just don\u2019t understand why you\u2019re at the Caruthers instead of in San Francisco with your folks, and you just decked Micah for talking about her.\u00a0 If you were sweet on Lila Jane…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you were, it would kinda explain things.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sweet on Lila Jane.\u00a0 I\u2019m just helping out her pa.\u00a0 If folks can\u2019t understand that, well, I don\u2019t care.\u201d\u00a0 Adam rose.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m going to go tell Mr. Caruthers before somebody else does.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t expect you\u2019ll be joining us later then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t expect I will.\u201d\u00a0 Adam went down the steps two at a time and walked off toward the cobbler\u2019s shop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I did not expect you so soon.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah looked over his shoulder as Adam entered the kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to speak with you, Mr. Caruthers.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes flicked toward Lila Jane.\u00a0 \u201cPrivately, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah turned.\u00a0 \u201cLila Jane made some lemonade.\u00a0 Pour each of us a glass, and we\u2019ll find a place in the shade to talk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They took their glasses and walked out the door to the corner of the outbuilding where Josiah had set two old chairs in the shade of a leaning aspen.\u00a0 It was the only spot on the Caruthers\u2019s property that ever caught a breeze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat down in response to a gesture from Josiah who seated himself in the opposite chair.\u00a0 Adam ran his finger around the lip of his glass but did not raise it to his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m listening, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, sir, after you and Lila Jane left church, well, there was, well, not a fight exactly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf it was not a fight exactly, what exactly was it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took in a deep breath.\u00a0 \u201cIt was me punching Micah Sparks and him landing on his butt, and then me telling him to shut his mouth or I\u2019d break his jaw.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah drew in a breath.\u00a0 \u201cI would suppose you had a reason.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMicah has a mean mouth.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhich he was using against whom?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tugged his left ear and did not answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah straightened in his chair and stated more firmly, \u201cI asked you who, Adam.\u00a0 I expect an answer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201d\u00a0 Adam wondered whether the anger that darkened Josiah\u2019s eyes was directed at Micah or himself.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll not ask you to repeat what he said; it does not matter.\u00a0\u00a0 Your actions were wrong, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReverend Marks talked to me,\u201d Adam offered in response.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe did?\u00a0 Then I suppose there is nothing more to be said on the matter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir, I expect there really isn\u2019t except, well, you telling me my punishment.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah sighed almost imperceptibly and rubbed his temple with his left hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before Josiah could speak, Adam\u2019s chin rose, and his eyes flashed, \u201cI won\u2019t apologize to Micah.\u00a0 I shouldn\u2019t have lost my temper, but I can\u2019t say I\u2019m sorry I hit him.\u201d\u00a0 His eyes fell, \u201cI\u2019ve wanted to do it plenty of times before.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI shall not force you.\u00a0 I shall be disappointed if you do not change your mind after some reflection, but I shall not force you.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah stood.\u00a0 \u201cYou were to have some time with your friends after dinner; instead, you will do the cleaning up and spend the time until evening chores at the table reading the Good Book.\u00a0 You will then retire to your bed after supper for that reflection.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah intoned Adam\u2019s punishment while looking down at the boy\u2019s bowed head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u00a0 Do you want me to memorize verses?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre there any relating to letting go of wrath or turning the other cheek that you have not already memorized?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah asked with a slight smile lifting his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen reading and reflection will be enough.\u00a0 Drink your lemonade and then come in and change your clothes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, I, I am sorry I lost my temper,\u201d Adam answered quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA quick temper is a demon that plagues many a man, Adam.\u00a0 My own father, well, Black Jack Caruthers was known for having the worst temper in the state or least the county.\u00a0 He was a good man though, my da.\u00a0 He died five days before my nineteenth birthday stopping a fire that could have burned down half the town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have that kind of temper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah grinned and tousled Adam\u2019s hair.\u00a0 \u201cSaint that she was, God spared my mama that!\u201d\u00a0 He strode off toward the kitchen door with a chuckle on his lips.\u00a0 Adam watched him and finally took a sip of his lemonade.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard Josiah excuse himself but did not look up from the Bible on the table before him.\u00a0 A minute passed, and then he heard a soft voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEven if I ask, you probably won\u2019t tell me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell you what, Lila Jane?\u201d\u00a0 Adam continued to stare at the Bible as he answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy you\u2019re being punished.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou think I\u2019m being punished?\u201d\u00a0 This time Adam looked up and raised his right eyebrow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane rolled her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re not going to tell me that you\u2019re not being punished.\u00a0 I suppose you just wanted to spend a few hours reading the Word of the Lord.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going to tell you anything, Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane snorted and stuck her tongue out from between her lips.\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t then!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam leaned back in his chair and said coolly, \u201cI might tell you, if\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you promise you won\u2019t be a coward next Sunday and run away after services.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s smirk rivaled the one he hated seeing on Lila Jane\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s hands pressed down on the arms of her chair, and her back straightened.\u00a0 \u201cRun away!\u00a0 I can\u2019t run anywhere!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you admit that you were a coward?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA coward!\u201d\u00a0 Adam watched Lila Jane\u2019s hands and prepared to dodge any projectile that might be sent his way.\u00a0 None came only because there was no suitable object near Lila Jane\u2019s hand.\u00a0 \u201cI am not a coward.\u00a0 How dare you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen promise me that you will stay and face everyone next Sunday.\u00a0 You have to sometime, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane sputtered unintelligibly as her breaths came quick and shallow.\u00a0 She had voiced no actual response when her father returned from the necessary.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah studied his daughter as he walked toward his chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam spoke instead.\u00a0 \u201cMay I be excused to start evening chores?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah shifted his attention to Adam and recognized the smug satisfaction on his face.\u00a0 He glanced back and forth between the two children and took the easiest course.\u00a0 \u201cYes, you may.\u00a0 Lila Jane and I will set out supper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rose and walked out the door whistling softly.\u00a0 He did not receive an answer to his challenge until he and Lila Jane were alone again after breakfast the next day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI promise I\u2019ll stay.\u00a0 Now tell me why you were punished.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned toward her.\u00a0 \u201cHow do I know that you\u2019ll keep that promise?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t break promises, Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cocked his head and raised his eyebrow.\u00a0 \u201cYou don\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s eyes blazed.\u00a0 \u201cI didn\u2019t, and I don\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam leaned his hip against the table and crossed his arms.\u00a0 \u201cI punched Micah Sparks in the churchyard after you left.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s mouth dropped open, and her eyes formed saucers.\u00a0 \u201cReally?\u00a0 Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say I\u2019d tell you that.\u00a0 His mouth needing closing is all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s mouth closed, and her eyes narrowed in speculation.\u00a0 Then she sighed.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s needed closing for years.\u201d\u00a0 She pushed her lip out in an exaggerated pout.\u00a0 \u201cYou could have done it before I left.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam wagged his finger at her.\u00a0 \u201cNow don\u2019t go blaming me for the fact that you missed the sight of Micah landing on his behind.\u00a0 You should have stayed long enough to see it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane pushed her lip out further and then shrugged.\u00a0 A wicked grin replaced the pout.\u00a0 \u201cSince I have to stay next Sunday, you could do it all over again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes, shook his head no, and departed to his appointed chore.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam reread a paragraph in the mathematics text before him and then finished the problem that had puzzled him.\u00a0 Sighing in satisfaction, he pondered whether to end his studies or light the lamp and continue.\u00a0 When the soft sound of music drifted to him, he closed the book and went to investigate.\u00a0 He climbed the stairs and stood outside the door to the sitting room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlay \u2018Lead Me Home,\u2019 please.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s voice held a note of hesitant pleading that Adam did not understand.\u00a0 He leaned against the door jam and watched as Josiah raised a mouth organ to his lips and blew the first few notes of a hymn Adam recognized immediately.\u00a0 Almost unconsciously and barely louder than a whisper, he began to sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I\u2019m a traveler in a weary land<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0I\u2019m a traveler in a weary land<\/em><\/p>\n

I\u2019m a traveler in a weary land<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord, and lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam saw Josiah\u2019s head turn in his direction and recognized his almost imperceptible nod of encouragement.\u00a0 The next verse was sung in a stronger voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Many\u2019s the time I have lost my way<\/em><\/p>\n

Many\u2019s the time I have lost my way<\/em><\/p>\n

Many\u2019s the time I have lost my way<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord, and lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stepped into the room and looked at Lila Jane in invitation, but she shook her head.\u00a0 Adam continued to sing as Josiah played.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But your goodness and mercy comfort me<\/em><\/p>\n

But your goodness and mercy comfort me<\/em><\/p>\n

But your goodness and mercy comfort me<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord, and lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Adam slipped onto the settee and then focused on the song.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I\u2019ll join all my loved ones who have gone before<\/em><\/p>\n

I\u2019ll join all my loved ones who have gone before<\/em><\/p>\n

I\u2019ll join all my loved ones who have gone before<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord, and lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord; please lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord; please lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord; please lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

Take my hand, Lord, and lead me home<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s voice soared with the final words, and Josiah ended with a flourish.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve a fine voice, lad!\u201d\u00a0 Josiah smiled as he dropped his hands to his lap.\u00a0 \u201cI knew that, though, from hearing you at church.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know you played the mouth organ.\u201d\u00a0 Adam observed with a slight note of inquiry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A shadow flickered across Josiah\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cI haven\u2019t much of late.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned his attention to Lila Jane.\u00a0 \u201cWhy didn\u2019t you sing with me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shook her head as a faint blush painted her cheeks pink, \u201cI can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted.\u00a0 \u201cEveryone can sing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah chuckled.\u00a0 \u201cNot everyone, boy.\u00a0 Some people can\u2019t carry a tune in a bucket, and I\u2019m afraid Lila Jane takes after me in that regard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cocked his head and raised his eyebrow.\u00a0 \u201cReally?\u201d\u00a0 It did not occur to him that some men might find his response less than respectful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally!\u201d\u00a0 Josiah raised the hand holding the mouth organ.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s why I learned to play this thing.\u00a0 Can\u2019t play and sing at the same time!\u201d\u00a0 Josiah chuckled again.\u00a0 Then his expression grew wistful.\u00a0 \u201cMy Lily was a songbird, though; she had the sweetest voice in the county.\u00a0 Her father had a fine voice too.\u00a0 Many nights I\u2019d play, and the two of them would sing, and Lila Jane. . .\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s voice stopped abruptly as he straightened in his chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Lila Jane?\u201d Adam questioned before thinking why Josiah had left his thought unfinished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah cleared his throat, and it was Lila Jane who answered, \u201cI danced. Didn\u2019t I, Father?\u00a0 I danced!\u201d\u00a0 Her last words were filled with bitterness, and she spat them into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several images flashed in Adam\u2019s mind:\u00a0 a barefoot girl on a granite outcropping pirouetting to flee, the same girl flitting among the dancers at a social, Lila Jane lying in the street like a broken doll.\u00a0 His gaze locked onto the wheelchair in which Lila Jane sat, and pity painted his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane drew in a deep breath hissing it in between her clenched teeth.\u00a0 Her fingers clamped around the wooden arms and pushed her body forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you dare!\u00a0 Don\u2019t you dare pity me, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 I\u2019ll get out of this chair, and I won\u2019t just walk; I\u2019ll dance.\u00a0 I\u2019ll dance, I tell you, and I\u2019ll make you dance with me!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane collapsed back into the chair as she began to sob.\u00a0 Josiah was at her side in moments and motioned to Adam to leave.\u00a0 The boy retreated down the stairs and out the backdoor.\u00a0 The shadows had deepened, and the first stars were appearing.\u00a0 Adam sank to his knees. Clasping his hands together, he prayed, \u201cDear Lord, please let her.\u00a0 Please let her!\u00a0 Please let, Lila Jane dance again.\u00a0 Please, please.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 He sat back and drew his knees beneath his chin.\u00a0 He counted stars until he heard footsteps behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was my fault.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah stepped closer and ruffled Adam\u2019s hair.\u00a0 \u201cNo more your fault than mine.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah placed a hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI, I don\u2019t pity her, well, not like that, not all the time.\u201d Josiah squeezed the shoulder beneath his fingers. Adam sighed.\u00a0 \u201cI shouldn\u2019t have let her see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou hide too much too well for a boy your age, Adam.\u00a0 Some things can be too large to hide.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned to look at the man behind him.\u00a0 \u201cYou feel it too sometimes?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t let her see it next time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah remained silent, but his hand patted Adam\u2019s back before he rose, and they walked back inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Adam walked into the kitchen from the workroom.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m to watch the shop, and there\u2019s really nothing to do in there except wait for a customer.\u00a0 I could roll you in, and we could have a game of chess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane opened her mouth, paused, and shook her head.\u00a0 \u201cNo, I don\u2019t feel like chess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam leaned against the table.\u00a0 \u201cIs the reason you don\u2019t feel like it the fact that I beat you last night?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane snorted.\u00a0 \u201cI beat you the time before that!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen come prove that you can do it again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to!\u201d Lila Jane exclaimed testily.\u00a0 Then, before Adam could speak, she added, \u201cDon\u2019t you dare call me lazy or a coward!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I\u2019ll just call you yellow,\u201d Adam tossed back nonchalantly realizing why the girl did not want to play chess in the shop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not yellow!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen come in the shop and play chess with me.\u201d\u00a0 Adam allowed a sarcastic edge to lace his next words.\u00a0 \u201cYou can sit behind the counter and crouch down out of sight if a customer comes in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The damp dish cloth was close enough for Lila Jane to snatch, but the added seconds it took to reach for it allowed Adam to prepare for the throw.\u00a0 He caught the limp projectile in midair and then stood staring at Lila Jane speculatively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou wouldn\u2019t,\u201d she sputtered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smirked and raised a single eyebrow.\u00a0 \u201cOh, wouldn\u2019t I?\u201d\u00a0 He tossed the cloth lightly from hand to hand.\u00a0 \u201cYou aimed for my head, little girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhich means your face was the least likely place that I\u2019d hit.\u201d\u00a0 She was learning to distinguish real from projected anger on his part.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes.\u00a0 \u201cIf you\u2019d promise not to throw anything else at me ever again, I\u2019d teach you how to hit what you aim at.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She cocked her head.\u00a0 \u201cCould you really?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI may have to consider it then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cConsider it while we play,\u201d Adam invited.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard Josiah\u2019s advice in his head and relaxed into a smile. \u201cPlease.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell…okay.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s dimples deepened.\u00a0 Maybe Mr. Caruthers was right.\u00a0 I should probably try it with Marie next time.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up as the bell over the shop door rang and watched Mrs. Sparks and Mrs. Spafford enter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning!\u201d Adam made his voice light and cheery, but he wondered if Mrs. Sparks\u2019s appearance was related to the punch in the jaw he had given her son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Adam.\u201d\u00a0 Mrs. Spafford\u2019s response was neutral in tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs. Sparks sniffed and said simply, \u201cIs Mr. Caruthers about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s upstairs with Lila Jane, ma\u2019am.\u00a0 I can let him know that you are here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou needn\u2019t bother.\u00a0 We will show ourselves up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, ma\u2019am…\u201d\u00a0 Adam began though his words sputtered away as the two women strolled imperiously past him through the door to the workshop.\u00a0 He hesitated and then followed in their wake through the workshop and into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Caruthers,\u201d Adam called as the trio mounted the stairs.\u00a0 Josiah met them as they emerged in the upstairs sitting room.\u00a0 His face was neutral and his voice warm as he greeted the ladies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, could you please bring something refreshing up for our guests,\u201d Josiah requested as he motion the ladies toward the settee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever mind,\u201d Mrs. Sparks stated, \u201cJosiah, we wish to speak with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no need to trouble with refreshments, Josiah,\u201d Mrs. Spafford interjected.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you\u2019re sure.\u00a0\u00a0 Please have a seat.\u00a0 Adam, if you would see to the shop then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam answered quickly, \u201cOf course, sir,\u201d and retreated back down the stairs.\u00a0 The entrance of two cowhands intent on buying new boots took all of his attention for a time, but when they departed, purchases in hand, the boy\u2019s ears strained to hear what might be occurring upstairs.\u00a0 He could recognize raised voices but could not decipher what they were saying.\u00a0\u00a0 He chewed his lower lip and inched closer to the door.\u00a0 He backed away again when footsteps announced that someone was descending and was busily straightening display shelves when the two visitors swept in from the workroom and out the door without a word.\u00a0 Three seconds later he heard the back door slam.\u00a0 Then the sound of an ax splitting wood began.\u00a0 Adam walked to the back window and watched Josiah Caruthers slam a log onto the block and then split it with one blow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019s furious!<\/em>\u00a0 A shudder ran down Adam\u2019s spine.\u00a0 He hesitated and then turned and darted up the stairs.\u00a0 Standing in the sitting room, he listened to the repeated thud and crack coming from the yard below and the muffled sound of weeping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam went the doorway of Lila Jane\u2019s room and looked inside.\u00a0 The girl lay face down on her bed sobbing with an abandon that reminded Adam of Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane,\u201d Adam said her name softly as he crossed to her bed.\u00a0 He received no response.\u00a0 A wave of sympathy propelled him to perch on the edge of the bed and reach out to pat the girl\u2019s heaving back.\u00a0 \u201cNow, now, it can\u2019t be that bad,\u201d he murmured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane did not respond, but neither did she pull away, so Adam continued to pat her back and mummer softly.\u00a0 After a few minutes, the sobs subsided into sniffles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want me to get your father?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWant to tell me what set things off?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid Mrs. Sparks or Mrs. Spafford say something?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hate them!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s vehemence gave credence to her exclamation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam leaned back against the footboard.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry, but I can\u2019t punch them for you; their being ladies and all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane pushed herself onto her elbows and looked at Adam for the first time.\u00a0 \u201cI should have thrown something at them.\u00a0 I would have if I\u2019d thought I could really hit one of them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI still think I could teach you to hit what you aim at,\u201d Adam said as a mischievous grin took control of his lips, \u201cif you make that promise, that is.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane slumped onto her crossed arms, \u201cI\u2019m not ready to promise that yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnything they said doesn\u2019t really matter, you know,\u201d Adam observed lightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane replied with a flat statement, \u201cFather\u2019s so angry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did not dispute the fact.\u00a0 \u201cWhat did they say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey don\u2019t think father should be left to deal with his poor crippled daughter alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not alone!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey don\u2019t exactly consider your being here a good thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I punched Micah?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot just that, but Father did hear all about the bully he was harboring in his home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed a curse mainly because Lila Jane was a girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBesides you won\u2019t be here that much longer.\u00a0 They told Father a man could not give a growing girl the proper care on his own.\u00a0 They said that\u00a0 Christian charity compelled them to volunteer to raise the money to send me somewhere I can be cared for properly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam went rigid. Then he drew in a long, slow breath.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll run out of wood before your pa cools down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several seconds passed before Lila Jane spoke, \u201cHe told them to go to blazes, but maybe, well, maybe father should send me away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane!\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice carried the snap of a bullwhip, \u201cHow dare you say that.\u00a0 If your father heard…\u201d\u00a0 Adam glared down at the girl.\u00a0 \u201cWhat your father needs to do is paddle the nonsense out of you more often.\u201d Lila Jane snorted.\u00a0 Adam straightened and pointed his finger even though Lila Jane was staring not at him but at the wall.\u00a0 \u201cIf you dare say something like that to him, I\u2019ll do it myself!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not allowed to strike a girl, Adam Cartwright!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSpanking naughty children is another thing all together, little girl!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane turned her head to glower at him over her shoulder.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAs if you would know, boy,\u201d she retorted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam crossed his arms on his chest, \u201cI know.\u00a0 You can ask Little Joe when he comes back if you don\u2019t believe me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane turned her stare back toward the wall.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe\u2019s three!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you\u2019re not acting much older!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re mean!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned.\u00a0 \u201cExactly what Little Joe says.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo away!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rose.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll help you get comfortable first.\u201d\u00a0 Adam ignored the icy silence as he turned Lila Jane onto her back and settled her into a seated positioned against the pillows piled in front of the headboard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere.\u201d\u00a0 He tossed a torn shirt on her lap and held out her sewing basket.\u00a0 \u201cThat needs mending, and there\u2019s no time like the present.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes I hate you, Adam Cartwright!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s only fair; I\u2019ve hated you at times, Lila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 He walked to the door and then stopped.\u00a0 \u201cYour father loves you, girl; he couldn\u2019t stand to be without you.\u201d\u00a0 Adam walked out of the room before Lila Jane could answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat down on the porch step and watched Josiah splitting wood.\u00a0 Josiah split five more logs before he stopped and asked, \u201cWho\u2019s watching the shop?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m listening for the bell.\u00a0 I sold two pairs of boots earlier.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah lifted another log onto the block.\u00a0 The ax sliced through it with one blow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Knox is coming this afternoon for the pair of shoes he had resoled,\u201d Adam observed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re ready.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah split another log.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane heard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah buried the ax in the block, and then ran his hands through his hair.\u00a0 Walking over to the porch, he leaned against the post and looked down at Adam.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHow much did you hear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing really.\u00a0 Lila Jane told me what they wanted.\u00a0 You\u2019ve a right to be mad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s expression shifted.\u00a0 Are you giving me permission to be angry, boy?<\/em>\u00a0 Josiah did not voice the thought; instead, his hand came up to rub his temple.\u00a0 Giving his head a sharp shake, he muttered, \u201cMaybe someone else could give her better care.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam allowed his voice to sharpen and his arms to cross on his chest, \u201cNo one could care for her better than you.\u201d\u00a0 He snorted.\u00a0 \u201cThere\u2019s only one thing you should give Lila Jane more of.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what precisely do you think that is, young man?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s voice had its own edge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat my pa would give me if he heard me being disrespectful just now.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry, Mr. Caruthers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cDid you mean any disrespect, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir, really I didn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd none was taken.\u00a0 As for Lila Jane and what my daughter needs… well, I need to talk to her, I expect. \u00a0Go on and tend the shop, lad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u00a0 I\u2019ll stack the wood later.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll see to it.\u201d\u00a0 He turned and walked inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Standing on the raised wooden sidewalk, Adam peered over the top of the batwing door into the dim interior.\u00a0 He felt a grip tighten on his arm a mere second before he registered a sting in his backside.\u00a0 Then he found himself propelled away from the door and swung around to face an irate cowhand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNed!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know better, boy,\u201d Old Ned growled.\u00a0 \u201cIf your pa should get word that you were lollygagging in saloons drinking and carrying on, there\u2019d be nothing left of your hide.\u201d\u00a0 The old man narrowed his eyes and shot a fierce glare directly at Adam.\u00a0 Instead of seeing the boy wilt, he saw a smile spread over the young face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNed, am I glad to see you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you hear me, Adam Cartwright?\u201d Old Ned demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, I did, but I haven\u2019t been in any saloons, and I wasn\u2019t going into this one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what in tarnation were ya doing at the door?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLooking for somebody from the ranch.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t expect it to be you though.\u201d Adam flashed a joyful smile.\u00a0 \u201cI never thought I\u2019d be that lucky.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned snorted, but inside he relaxed.\u00a0 \u201cHow have ya been, bucko, and why do ya need somebody from the ranch?\u201d\u00a0 Ned\u2019s eyes narrowed again.\u00a0 \u201cYou having problems with that Caruthers fellow?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, not at all.\u00a0 He\u2019s a real good man; really, he is.\u00a0 I\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you heard from the boss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, had a telegram yesterday.\u00a0 They\u2019re all fine and having a good time.\u00a0 Is everything okay at the ranch?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEverything\u2019s right as rain.\u00a0 The boys all know how to do their jobs, and wasn\u2019t I the one who taught your daddy what he knows about ranching?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned had been one of the first two men Ben Cartwright had hired when he had acquired a herd beyond the capacity of one man and a boy to handle, and his question held a great deal of truth.\u00a0 \u201cSure enough.\u00a0 Pa knows that, or he wouldn\u2019t have gone off at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, then,\u201d Ned harrumphed, \u201cBesides there\u2019s been plenty of peace and quiet with none of you boys being underfoot.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam knew Old Ned well enough to recognize that the man had just told him that he and his brothers had been missed at the ranch.\u00a0 Adam grinned and then rubbed his backside, \u201cWell, I\u2019ve been able to rest up from my usual dodging too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll give you reason to dodge, boy, if you don\u2019t start explaining yourself.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned raised his hand and held it as if ready to strike.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need somebody to do something for me.\u00a0 You don\u2019t have to do it yourself, but you\u2019ll get someone to do it for me, won\u2019t you?\u201d Adam entreated. \u201cPlease.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust what is it you\u2019re needing done?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam explained his plan to the man he thought of as nearly a second grandfather.\u00a0 The old cowhand listened and then agreed to handle things.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see to it myself, bucko.\u00a0 Don\u2019t fret; things will be seen to right.\u201d\u00a0 Ned clapped Adam on the arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Ned.\u00a0 I\u2019ll see you tomorrow then.\u201d\u00a0 Glancing up at the sun, Adam added, \u201cI better be getting back.\u00a0 Tell everyone howdy for me, will you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, lad.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned reached out and caught Adam by the arm.\u00a0 Lowering his voice, he said, \u201cIf I hear of you being in this saloon or any other while your pa\u2019s up to San Francisco, there won\u2019t be nothing left of your backside for him to blister when he gets back.\u00a0 You hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, I do, and I know you mean it.\u201d\u00a0 Adam purposefully deepened his dimples.\u00a0 \u201cI learned to mind you a long time ago.\u00a0 You know I did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned released his hold and slapped Adam lightly on the back.\u00a0 \u201cOff with ya then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam darted up the street as Old Ned chuckled and entered the saloon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam slipped from the church and glanced around.\u00a0 His eyes lit up as he saw what he sought.\u00a0 Rushing down the steps, he darted over to where Old Ned stood beside the Cartwright buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFirst time I\u2019ve been this near a church on Sunday morning for Lord knows how long,\u201d Old Ned observed as Adam dashed up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t you come on inside?\u201d Adam inquired with a slightly cheeky grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t want to cause no lightning strikes what with children and womenfolk being there,\u201d Old Ned replied and spit tobacco juice at Adam\u2019s feet.\u00a0 \u201cNow, everything ya wanted is packed in the back, and whoever comes in next for the mail will pick it up and bring it back to the ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks!\u201d\u00a0 Adam stated heartily and then turned to call, \u201cMr. Caruthers!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah heard his name and turned his head to locate Adam.\u00a0 He nodded, settled Lila Jane in her chair, and then pushed it over to where the boy was talking to the cowhand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Caruthers, Lila Jane, this is Old Ned.\u00a0 He\u2019s from the ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah and Lila Jane both voiced polite greetings, and Josiah extended his hand.\u00a0 Old Ned shook it while giving the man a stare of appraisal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going on a picnic!\u201d Adam announced with a smile and a hand flourishing toward the buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe are?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s eyebrow rose slightly, Adam\u2019s demeanor deflated, and Old Ned spoke quickly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe boy meant it as a surprise for the little gal.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah exchanged a glance with Old Ned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI should have. . .\u201d Adam began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBeen a little less presuming and a little less big for them britches.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned popped the back of Adam\u2019s leg with far more sound than sting.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ve been trying to break him of that for some time, but…\u201d Ned shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s a good lad though, and it\u2019s a grand day for a picnic.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah smiled.\u00a0 \u201cThat it is, and we\u2019d be pleased to join in such a fine plan. Wouldn\u2019t we, Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yes!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, then, ya best get a move on.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned watched as Josiah settled Lila Jane in the buggy.\u00a0 \u201cThe boy knows the team and the way and has a sure hand with the reins.\u00a0 Ya can feel comfortable sitting back and letting him do the work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for bringing out the buggy,\u201d Josiah said then turned a speculative eye on Adam.\u00a0 \u201cHow ever did you arrange things?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam and I ran into each other in town yesterday,\u201d Ned replied with a wink directed at Adam.\u00a0 \u201cNow you folks have a fine time, and I\u2019ll just wheel that chair back to your shop.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to do that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt will be fine here until we return.\u00a0 You really needn\u2019t bother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cNo bother.\u00a0 No bother at all.\u00a0 Get along now.\u201d\u00a0 He slapped the lead horse on the rump, and Adam released the brake.\u00a0 Ned watched Adam drive off with a smile on his face.\u00a0 Then, whistling a hymn he thought he had forgotten long before, he pushed Lila Jane\u2019s chair down the road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe works for your father?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah inquired as the buggy rolled out of town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s, well, you might call him the senior hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe senior hand?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s nose crinkled in puzzlement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, umm, on a ranch like ours, hands generally come and go except for a few that sort of settle in permanent-like.\u00a0 Old Ned\u2019s one of those who\u2019s settled on the Ponderosa for good.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOld Ned?\u201d\u00a0 There was admonition in Josiah\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard it and said quickly, \u201cI\u2019m not being disrespectful, Mr. Caruthers.\u00a0 That\u2019s what everyone on the Ponderosa calls him, and really the old<\/em> is sort of a title of respect.\u00a0 He\u2019s been on the Ponderosa the longest, and, like I said, he\u2019s kinda the senior hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike a foreman?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUmm, no.\u00a0 We have a foreman and that\u2019s a position, a different job.\u00a0 Old Ned , well, he\u2019s a hand, but he… he sorta runs the bunkhouse and sees that new fellows know how things are done on the Ponderosa and teaches green hands when we have to hire them, and that sort of thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s lips curled.\u00a0 \u201cDoes he teach the boss\u2019s son things?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam overlooked any dig in Lila Jane\u2019s tone. \u201cYeah, he\u2019s stuck teaching me and my brothers almost as often as my pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah exchanged a significant look with his daughter and then said, \u201cI doubt he minds that much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes became serious, but a smile danced across his lips.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t think he does, most of the time anyway.\u00a0 The Ponderosa is his home as much as it is mine and my family\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They arrived at the picnic spot Adam had chosen after about an hour\u2019s pleasant drive.\u00a0\u00a0 Adam jumped from the buggy and began automatically giving instructions and grabbing items.\u00a0 Josiah exchanged a glance with Lila Jane, arched his eyebrow, and let the boy have his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah sighed contentedly.\u00a0 \u201cIf that was an example of how the hands at the Ponderosa eat, you must have people fighting to work there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa says a good worker deserves a decent meal, and Cookie gives them one.\u00a0 Most of the canning was from Hop Sing\u2019s pantry though.\u00a0 Hop Sing\u2019s the best cook in the territory.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs that so?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane inquired pointedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shook her head.\u00a0 \u201cIs there anything on the Ponderosa that\u2019s not the best?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope!\u201d\u00a0 Adam flashed his dimples and leaned back on his elbow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane harrumphed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane!\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s voice was firm.\u00a0 \u201cYou must admit that was a very fine meal and this is a beautiful spot.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yes, but…\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane saw the look on her father\u2019s face and left the rest of her sentence unspoken.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam straightened and took a deep breath.\u00a0 \u201cNow\u2019s the time for the best part.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBest part?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re going in swimming!\u201d\u00a0 Adam declared as his hand swept toward the pool beside which they had been sitting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam ignored Lila Jane and continued to talk directly to Josiah, \u201cI talked to Doc Martin, and he said moving in the water could be good for her, and leastways it couldn\u2019t do any harm. A body can float just moving their arms, and this pool\u2019s calm and not too deep, and you\u2019ll be with her, so it\u2019s safe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah considered for a moment, and then said, \u201cThere\u2019s one small problem.\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s too old to swim in mixed company.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A blush painted Adam\u2019s cheeks as he immediately understood Josiah\u2019s meaning.\u00a0 \u201cI can go off for a bit, so you\u2019ll have privacy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah rubbed his chin, \u201cI don\u2019t know about your wandering off alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s chin jerked upward.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m not a little kid!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s brow lowered, but Lila Jane spoke before he could, \u201cWe\u2019re on Ponderosa land, aren\u2019t we?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I expect Adam\u2019s been around here alone before, Father.\u00a0 Haven\u2019t you, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam failed to contain his derisive snort, and Josiah\u2019s features darkened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright, I will decide…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather, please,\u201d Lila Jane\u2019s interjection stopped both Josiah and Adam.\u00a0 \u201cI would really like to go swimming, Father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took in a deep breath and spoke softly, \u201cI\u2019m sorry I was disrespectful, sir.\u00a0 Please don\u2019t punish Lila Jane by saying no because you\u2019re angry with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah sighed, \u201cI know you\u2019re capable of taking care of yourself, Adam, and that you\u2019ve roamed about alone countless times, I just…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have an idea, sir,\u201d Adam inserted, and then bit his lower lip at the realization that he had interrupted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat idea?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when I was little Pa had a way of keeping track when one of us was going off out of sight.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Adam put two fingers to his mouth and piercing whistle split the air.\u00a0 \u201cYou can hear that for a good bit further than a body can see.\u00a0 Pa would whistle, and when I whistled back he knew things were fine.\u00a0 If he wanted me, he whistled twice quick.\u00a0 If there was trouble, the signal was to whistle three times.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah looked at both sets of pleading eyes and capitulated.\u00a0 Pushing his overprotective concern out of his mind, he said, \u201cAll right, but don\u2019t wander beyond the sound of a whistle, is that clear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam sprang to his feet.\u00a0 Looking down at Lila Jane, he paused to grin wickedly.\u00a0 \u201cI promise I won\u2019t peek.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane snorted, \u201cI\u2019m not going skinny-dipping like some folks do!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged nonchalantly, but as he turned to walk away an image of Lila Jane in wet drawers and chemise entered his mind.\u00a0 Hot blood rose into his cheeks, so he quickened his pace as he headed up the stream that fed the pool.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Minutes later, he snorted as he heard a sharp whistle.\u00a0 He answered with a whistle of his own and sauntered a little further before throwing himself down beside the stream.\u00a0 He absently plucked one of the wild flowers near his hand and began absent-mindedly to weave more of them into a crown.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I wouldn\u2019t mind cooling off myself, <\/em>he mused as he closed the floral circle, it\u2019s not like I have to worry about Lila Jane sneaking up to peek or steal my drawers.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>For the first time, no hackles were raised by the memory of his and Lila Jane\u2019s initial encounter.\u00a0 Instead, Adam chuckled as he doffed his boots, shirt, and pants.\u00a0 He paused and tugged his ear before removing his drawers then lowered himself into the water.\u00a0 He heard and answered several more whistles before he decided he had better leave the water and start letting the sun dry his body.\u00a0 Still damp and half asleep when he realized that the two-whistle call had summoned him, he replied in kind and snatched up his clothes.\u00a0 Donning them with remarkable haste, he started back to the picnic site at a swift jog.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He paused as he caught sight of Josiah and Lila Jane.\u00a0 She sat with her back to her father as he pulled a comb through her hair.\u00a0 Adam watched as Lila Jane lifted her face to the sun as contented as a cat in its rays.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah paused and lifted a few strands of hair in his fingers.\u00a0 \u201cAs beautiful as your mother\u2019s.\u00a0 Your grandfather called it her crowning glory.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMine\u2019s far too tangled for a crown,\u201d Lila Jane stated.\u00a0 Her eyes widened as Adam strode up, kneeled down, and dropped the wildflowers he had woven onto her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen here\u2019s another for you, my lady.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright!\u201d\u00a0 His name sprung from Lila Jane\u2019s lips, but nothing more followed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned; it was very seldom that Lila Jane was at a loss for words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou went swimming.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s remark held a chiding tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam went back on his heels to look up at the man standing over him.\u00a0 \u201cYou never said I couldn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah rubbed his chin and regretted the light that had left the boy\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 \u201cNo, I never did.\u00a0 I should have expected you would.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah let his irritation melt away.\u00a0 \u201cDid you enjoy your swim?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, I surely did!\u00a0 Did you, Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adam Cartwright, I surely did!\u201d\u00a0 Her tone imitated his perfectly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought you might swim longer,\u201d Adam commented.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSince Lila Jane and I would be somewhat wet, I thought we should travel back while the sun was still high.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yeah, I should have thought of bringing dry things.\u201d\u00a0 Adam responded then blushed for the third time that afternoon at the thought of handling Lila Jane\u2019s underthings.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah noted Adam\u2019s red face but kept even the hint of laughter from his voice.\u00a0 \u201cNo matter.\u00a0 It\u2019s a warm day, much too warm to catch a chill even if a body was soaked through.\u00a0 I worry overmuch.\u201d\u00a0 Then Josiah grinned.\u00a0 \u201cWouldn\u2019t you say so, lad?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam studied Josiah\u2019s face for a few seconds before replying, \u201cYes, sir, I guess I would.\u201d\u00a0 Then he matched Josiah\u2019s grin.\u00a0 \u201cBut not so you could hear.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane laughed louder and longer than either Adam or her father.\u00a0 Adam repacked the buggy as Josiah settled Lila Jane for the ride home.\u00a0 When they arrived, Adam immediately set to tending the horses pausing only to smile when he noticed the Lila Jane was still wearing her flowered crown.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, bucko, how did your outing go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the sound of Old Ned\u2019s voice, Adam spun around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNed!\u201d\u00a0 Then with a grin spreading across his face he answered, \u201cReally fine.\u00a0 It went really fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you suppose ya might be needing that buggy again?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bit his lip as he considered the question.\u00a0 \u201cI suppose we might.\u00a0 There isn\u2019t really any reason not to leave it here for a while, don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill feeding and caring for the team be a problem?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cIt shouldn\u2019t be, well, not if…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou thinking on me bringing in some fed from the ranch?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to, but, well, it sure would be nice to have the buggy and team here if we want them.\u00a0 I wouldn\u2019t want Mr. Caruthers\u2019s to have to pay for feeding Cartwright horses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou gonna ask nice and polite, bucko, or just wait for me to tell ya I will?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam softened his voice, widened his eyes, and said softly, \u201cWould you please bring in a load of feed, sir?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned drew his brows together and sent a glare in Adam\u2019s direction.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re forgetting, boy, that I know you too well for such shining on.\u00a0 I can see the cheek beneath it a mile away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned wickedly.\u00a0 \u201cCan\u2019t hurt a boy to try.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned placed his hands on his hips.\u00a0 \u201cYou sure of that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, not if I stay more than an arm\u2019s length away!\u201d\u00a0 Adam watched the older man with enough alertness to evade any reprimand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned took a seat on the porch step.\u00a0 \u201cThat little gal enjoy herself?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam settled himself on the ground in front of Ned.\u00a0 \u201cI think she really did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I won\u2019t be taking the buggy and team.\u201d Adam smiled and then sent the cowhand a pleading look.\u00a0 \u201cAnd I\u2019ll bring a load of feed in tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s next words were simple and sincere.\u00a0 \u201cThank you.\u00a0 I know I\u2019ve put you to a lot of trouble, and I appreciate your helping me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned spit his tobacco juice into the grass.\u00a0 \u201cThis kinda a trouble I don\u2019t mind.\u00a0 Now, as to you getting into the other kind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNed, I haven\u2019t been getting in trouble.\u00a0 I told you I haven\u2019t been in any saloons.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I believe ya, bucko.\u00a0 Can ya say the same about fights?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes dropped to the ground.\u00a0 \u201cIt wasn\u2019t exactly a fight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause you got in the first and only lick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yeah, but he deserved it, Ned, really he did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour daddy gonna see it that way?\u201d\u00a0 Adam shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cBoy, I asked ya a question.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam allowed a slight whine to enter is voice.\u00a0 \u201cI already had two lectures on the subject.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey say three\u2019s the charm.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bit his lip.\u00a0 \u201cPa will probably make it four when he hears.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs a lecture all ya got?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cI got punished.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned\u2019s eyebrow rose.\u00a0 \u201cDid ya?\u00a0 That Caruthers didn\u2019t use too heavy a hand, did he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d\u00a0 Adam sighed.\u00a0 \u201cHe didn\u2019t use any hand at all.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think he does much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned snorted.\u00a0 \u201cNo doubt comes from having only a gal to raise.\u00a0 Ya planning on any repeats?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 No, sir, I\u2019m not.\u201d\u00a0 Adam looked up through his lowered lashes and caught the slight upturn of Old Ned\u2019s lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOne punch they said, and him more than a year older,\u201d Ned muttered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam relaxed knowing his reprimand was over. \u201cNed, ummm, did you ever know somebody, well, who got hurt and couldn\u2019t walk for a while, but, well, got better?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUmmm,\u201d Old Ned rubbed his chin and pondered not only the question but the boy\u2019s expression.\u00a0 \u201cWell, now, the truth is that I seen two men crippled by being bucked off broncos and another crippled in a stampede.\u00a0\u00a0 I\u2019ve seen plenty hurt for a time in a lot of ways, but I can\u2019t say I know of a person hurt like that little gal who got the use of their legs back.\u00a0 Then again I ain\u2019t lived long enough to see everything that can happen to a body.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe doctor says there\u2019s a chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen there must be one.\u201d\u00a0 Adam did not respond but only ran his hand across the grass.\u00a0 \u201cNo one wants to see a little gal crippled, bucko, but if it\u2019s to be, it\u2019s to be.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOne of them that got bucked off, well, I shoulda kept him off that horse.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up into the weathered face.\u00a0 \u201cYou felt guilty?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill do sometimes; then again, he weren\u2019t a child, young, yes, but not a child.\u00a0 Some things are best not dragged around with ya, bucko.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not, really, it\u2019s just…I want her to walk.\u00a0 I keep feeling like there\u2019s something I haven\u2019t thought of to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThinking is one thing, bucko; fretting is another.\u00a0 One\u2019s is a horse; the other\u2019s a rocking chair.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned leaned forward and spoke gently, \u201cCome to think on it, I knew a fellow once who hurt his arm bad.\u00a0 The sawbones who doctored him said it was fifty\/fifty that it\u2019d be of any use to him.\u00a0 After a time though, doc told him it looked to have healed and he should start trying to use it.\u00a0 You\u2019d have thought he\u2019d start grabbing for something right then and there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe didn\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he didn\u2019t.\u00a0 What it was was that he was too scared.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cToo scared?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned nodded.\u00a0 \u201cHe was scared that he might try and it wouldn\u2019t work.\u00a0 Long as he hadn\u2019t really tried, he had hope; iffen he\u2019d tried and failed he wouldn\u2019t have had even that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid he ever try?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfter a time and some powerful prodding, he did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHis arm got to working just fine.\u00a0 Still was last time I saw him.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned stood and reached out a hand to Adam.\u00a0 He took it and allowed Ned to pull him to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cI got to be going, bucko.\u00a0 Ya take care now, and I\u2019ll see ya when I bring the feed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell everyone at the ranch howdy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat I will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNed\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, bucko?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes lightened.\u00a0 \u201cUmm, maybe I could…umm\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCould what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo into just one saloon?\u201d\u00a0 Adam dodged the hand that swept toward his backside and laughed.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m just funning!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou just best remember what I said, boy, because I wasn\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, Old Ned, sir.\u00a0 I\u2019ll remember just what you said.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam followed Doctor Paul Martin out of the shop before calling his name.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul stopped and turned back to answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCould I talk to you for a minute, please?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d \u00a0Studying the boy\u2019s face, Paul added, \u201cYou\u2019re not feeling ill, are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head emphatically, \u201cNo, no, I\u2019m fine.\u00a0 I just wanted to talk to you, to ask you, well, about Lila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Doctor Martin took a couple of steps back toward Adam.\u00a0 Adam shifted nervously and tugged at his left ear with his right hand.\u00a0 \u201cIs she, well, are there any signs that she is getting better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor took a moment to consider his answer and then replied, \u201cLila Jane has healed in many ways, and Josiah has done a wonderful job exercising her muscles and keeping them in condition.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut are there any signs that she\u2019ll be able to walk again?\u201d Adam\u2019s tone had become more demanding.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, there\u2019s not a simple answer to that question.\u00a0 There are two possible reasons for Lila Jane\u2019s inability to walk.\u00a0 If her spinal cord was severed or crushed beyond repair, well, there is no possibility that she will ever walk again, but- and this is the vital point- if her injury only caused bruising and swelling that created pressure on the cord, functioning would return when the swelling and pressure are gone.\u00a0 Regrettably, there is no way for me to look inside her back and see which of these scenarios is the true one.\u00a0\u00a0 We shall only know when time has passed and function returns or too much time passes and it has not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow long will be too long?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Doctor Martin sighed.\u00a0 \u201cIf there is not sign of returned function in, well, it\u2019s not like the number of days is set in stone, but if something positive does not happen before you head back home there will be almost no hope that it ever will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tugged his ear again.\u00a0 \u201cHas she even tried to, well, to do anything?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin drew in a deep breath.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, I don\u2019t know if I\u2019m comfortable with discussing any more details of Lila Jane\u2019s recovery with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA doctor does not reveal everything he knows about his patients even to a concerned and well-meaning friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam opened his mouth to speak, closed it again, tugged his ear, and then said softly, \u201cI see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul reached out and squeezed Adam\u2019s shoulder, \u201cI\u2019ll be back by in a few days.\u00a0 You know, Adam, Lila Jane and her father are free to tell you what you want to know.\u00a0 I just think it would be best for you to talk to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d Adam replied softly.\u00a0 Then he gazed directly into the doctor\u2019s eyes and asked, \u201cShe hasn\u2019t though, has she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d was the only verbal response Doctor Martin gave before turning and walking down the street, but no other response was needed, for Adam had read his answer in the doctor\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Slipping from his bed, Adam walked from behind the screen that separated his temporary sleeping quarters from the rest of the sitting room.\u00a0 He saw the light seeping from beneath the door to Josiah Caruthers\u2019s bedroom and walked swiftly across the intervening space.\u00a0 He did not knock fearing that even the slightest pause would allow his resolve to be lost.\u00a0 Instead he pushed open the door and slipped inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Caruthers.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice was soft, but his abrupt entrance had startled Josiah.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u00a0 Is something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not like you\u2019re thinking, no,\u201d Adam replied shaking his head and then dropping his eyes to the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what?\u201d\u00a0 There was a touch of frost in Josiah\u2019s inquiry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI, I didn\u2019t mean to be rude.\u00a0 I apologize, but I wanted to speak to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s expression became speculative.\u00a0 He had sent the boy to bed hours earlier and had thought him sleeping.\u00a0 \u201cYour apology is accepted, Adam.\u00a0 What do you need to speak to me about?\u201d\u00a0 He motioned the boy to come to him.\u00a0 Adam did with slow, measured steps and stood next to the bed upon which Josiah reclined.\u00a0 Josiah shifted and swung his legs over the side and then patted the mattress as a signal for Adam to sit beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 When Josiah\u2019s expression requested an explanation, Adam continued, \u201cIs she, well, has she tried to walk, to stand even, or anything?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I don\u2019t think…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe hasn\u2019t; she isn\u2019t trying, is she?\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice sharpened with demand.\u00a0 When Josiah did not answer immediately, Adam\u2019s exclamation cut through the air, \u201cWell, is she!\u201d\u00a0 The boy sprang to his feet, and seconds later the man did too.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYoung man, you will not use that tone to me.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s words were low in volume but hard as steel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bit his lower lip in frustration but showed not a shred of repentance which surprised Josiah as much as the outburst had.\u00a0 Then Adam stated with less volume but more vehemence, \u201cI have a right to know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah drew in a long, slow breath.\u00a0 \u201cDo you remember what right your father gave to me before he left?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0 The reply was nearly growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah\u2019s hand went to Adam\u2019s upper arm.\u00a0 Adam tensed and instinctively placed his other hand behind him.\u00a0 It was the act of a little boy.\u00a0 Josiah hesitated when he saw it long enough to notice the sheen of tears that rose in the boy\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 He released Adam\u2019s arm and placed his hand on the boy\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 The tension left Adam\u2019s body suddenly, and he slumped back against the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah squeezed his shoulder and sighed.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps you do have the right to know; perhaps you have earned that right, but not the right to demand things of me in that tone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah turned and walked to the window.\u00a0 \u201cThe doctor has started to ask her to do more than just lie there and try to move her legs.\u00a0 He wanted her to try standing, but…\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s voice drifted to a whisper, \u201cperhaps she has tried as hard as she can, and we need to start accepting…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d\u00a0 Josiah turned to stare back at the angry child who was once more on his feet.\u00a0 \u201cNot until she really tries.\u00a0 I know she hasn\u2019t really tried, and I know why.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s scared, too scared.\u00a0 Sometimes a body gets too scared to move.\u00a0 She\u2019s so scared she can\u2019t that she can\u2019t.\u00a0 We have to make her.\u201d\u00a0 With his last words, Adam\u2019s voice broke.\u00a0 \u201cWe have to make her really try.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s breathing was fast and shallow, and the muscles of his body trembled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah crossed the room in three strides and pulled Adam down onto the bed.\u00a0 \u201cCalm down, lad, calm down.\u00a0 No one\u2019s given up.\u00a0 No one\u2019s going to stop trying.\u00a0 Maybe you\u2019re right.\u00a0 If you are, we\u2019ll find a way to ease her fear.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s breathing had become less ragged, and Josiah patted his back.\u00a0 \u201cBut now is hardly the time to begin.\u00a0 Unless we\u2019ve woken her, my daughter is fast asleep in her bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up at Josiah.\u00a0 \u201cDo you think she heard?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll check, but no, I really don\u2019t.\u00a0 My daughter is not a light sleeper. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss could sleep through a tornado sometimes,\u201d Adam observed idly.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe, well, getting him there is a struggle but once he\u2019s down…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe sleeps the sleep of the innocent.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah patted Adam\u2019s back again, \u201cIt\u2019s time you were sleeping that way also, lad.\u00a0 To bed with you now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood, took one step toward the door, and then stopped.\u00a0 He stared at the floor as he spoke, \u201cYou owe me at least three good swats.\u00a0 By Pa\u2019s reckoning it would probably be a necessary talking to.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA necessary talking to?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what pa calls it when he warms our behinds good and proper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I see.\u201d\u00a0 Adam did not see Josiah\u2019s grin.\u00a0 \u201cGo to bed, lad, I\u2019m far too weary to deliver what is owed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did hear the lightness in Josiah\u2019s voice.\u00a0 \u201cThank you, sir,\u201d he said before he darted back to his bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stopped in the doorway and scanned the interior of the shop.\u00a0 Lila Jane sat in her wheelchair staring out the large front window at the street. Walking up behind her, his own stare settled on its view of the dusty road and the opposite sidewalk.\u00a0 Two girls stood talking on that sidewalk, and their quick looks in the direction of the cobbler\u2019s shop left their observers with the distinct impression that the subject of their conversation was obvious.\u00a0 As the two girls started to walk further down the street, Lila Jane spoke softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat first week they came, all of them, one by one, to tell me that they were sorry I was hurt and sure that I would be fine soon enough.\u201d\u00a0 Her hands curled into white-knuckled fists, and her head pressed hard against the back of her chair.\u00a0 \u201cNone of them has come a second time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam acknowledged the truth of her statement with silence.\u00a0 Not once since his arrival had any of the girls he might have named as Lila Jane\u2019s friends visited her.\u00a0 Adam leaned down, released the chair\u2019s brake, and turned Lila Jane\u2019s back to the window.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf they don\u2019t come, it\u2019s something wrong with them not you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, it\u2019s not something wrong with them.\u00a0 It\u2019s…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam walked around to stand in front of her with his hands on his hips.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s what?\u201d\u00a0 He searched her eyes for tears but found them clear and cold.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just that there\u2019s so many things they would have to think about not saying.\u00a0 Can\u2019t talk about things that I can\u2019t do anymore.\u00a0 Can\u2019t talk about the next dance or social and remind me that I\u2019ve no reason to go to either.\u00a0 Can\u2019t talk about whose making eyes at who because,\u201d her voice faltered, \u201c \u2018cause nobody will ever …\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not true, Lila Jane!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yes, it is!\u00a0 There\u2019s not man in the world wants a wife who can\u2019t walk.\u201d\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve known men who had wives who couldn\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho they had already married and couldn\u2019t get shed of.\u00a0 Nobody\u2019s going to choose a girl who\u2019s already a cripple.\u201d\u00a0 Her words were hard and sharp with anger.\u00a0 \u201cWould you?\u00a0 Would you come courting the day I turn sixteen?\u201d she demanded.\u00a0\u00a0 She pressed her hands down against the arms of the chair and leaned toward him.\u00a0 He took one involuntary step back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not a fair question.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drew in a deep breath before he said, \u201cBecause, well, because…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Lila Jane interjected, \u201chow silly of me to forget that you never liked me even with two good legs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t dislike you, Lila Jane.\u00a0 Well, not now anyway.\u201d\u00a0 She watched his right hand tug his left ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not now.\u00a0 Now you pity me instead.\u201d\u00a0 Her head jerked up defiantly.\u00a0 \u201cWell, you can just go back to hating me.\u00a0 I assure you I\u2019d rather you did.\u201d\u00a0 Held in front of him by her inability to walk or even roll herself away, Lila Jane simply turned her head as if dismissing him from her mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re the one doing the pitying, Lila Jane.\u00a0 You just sit there and pity yourself.\u00a0 If you weren\u2019t so stuck in self-pity, you might actually try to get up and walk.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice held both anger and frustration.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane turned her gaze back to meet Adam\u2019s glare.\u00a0 In a curiously calm and flat voice, she taunted, \u201cWell, if you\u2019d just go ahead and lay your holier-than-thou hands on my head and grant me your divine healing, I\u2019ll do just that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the second time, the force of Adam\u2019s slamming the door knocked its dangling bell to the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Fifty strides later he plowed into a six-foot-three, two hundred and eighty pound miner who grabbed his arm and shook him, \u201cWhat the blazes, boy!\u00a0 Where do ya think you\u2019re going!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, sir,\u201d Adam managed to mumble.\u00a0 The collision having knocked a great deal of his rage from his mind, he stepped to the side and stood with his back against a store wall as the miner passed.\u00a0 Where am I going?<\/em> His body slumped with despair.\u00a0 I just want to go home!<\/em>\u00a0 \u00a0Several people passed while he debated the actual possibility of hitching up the buggy and returning to the ranch.\u00a0 It\u2019s not that long until they\u2019ll all be back.\u00a0 It\u2019s not like there\u2019s nobody at the ranch at all.\u00a0 I can tell Mr. Caruthers that Old Ned will see to me<\/em>.\u00a0 For a minute he indulged in the vision of home, then he shook his head to dislodge a gruff voice, A man starts something, he sees it through, bucko.<\/em>\u00a0 The smile slipped from his lips.\u00a0 Unless I tell him some lie, he\u2019ll march me right back, and all I\u2019ll have for my trouble is an aching backside.<\/em>\u00a0 Adam sighed not even bothering to contemplate lying to the old man, for he knew far better than to try that.\u00a0 Better get back before Mr. Caruthers thinks I\u2019ve taken off or finds I left Lila Jane alone<\/em>.\u00a0 He straightened and walked resolutely back to the cobbler\u2019s shop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Opening the door, he stopped abruptly, for Lila Jane sat precisely where he had left her not crying but with her eyes shut and her lips moving soundlessly.\u00a0 Adam slipped inside and closed the door softly behind him.\u00a0 Walking to the space before her, he went to his heels and said softly, \u201cLila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Her eyelids only flickered but did not rise. \u201cWould you really want me to come courting?\u00a0 If you were walking, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tip of her teeth sunk into her lower lip, and her eyes slowly opened. \u201cFor true courting or for fun courting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor true courting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed.\u00a0 \u201cNo, not really, not for true.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all I meant, Lila Jane, because if I felt that way about a gal, well, it wouldn\u2019t matter.\u00a0 To some it wouldn\u2019t matter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s shoulders lifted in a slight shrug.\u00a0 \u201cMaybe there\u2019s some.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cComing to court a gal if all you want is to spark her some, and, well, if you knew nothing more could come of it, well, that would be trifling with her, and my Pa wouldn\u2019t hold with that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The corners of her mouth turned upwards ever so slightly.\u00a0 \u201cThey\u2019d hear him in Canada, would they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His dimples appeared.\u00a0 \u201cFor sure and certain!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled, and then it faded.\u00a0 \u201cI have tried, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor real and true?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her eyes filled with fire, and her words snapped, \u201cWhy do you think I haven\u2019t!\u00a0 Why does everyone think I\u2019m not trying!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rose and looked down at her.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s just…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather!\u00a0 FATHER!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not in the workshop.\u00a0 He…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her curse was relatively mild compared to those Adam had heard from the mouths of many hands, but coming from a girl\u2019s lips he was taken aback.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane!\u201d\u00a0 The tone was pure Pa Cartwright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane blinked, studied his face, and quite inexplicably to Adam began to giggle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam threw up his hands in frustration and turned toward the workroom door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d\u00a0 He stopped in his tracks.\u00a0 \u201cWould you roll me into the kitchen, please?\u201d\u00a0 He turned and without speaking went to stand behind her chair.\u00a0 \u201cAnd, uh, please don\u2019t tell Father what I said.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m not a tattletale, Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we all have our good points, don\u2019t we?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane received no answer as a customer came through the door at that exact moment kicking the little bell across the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ross leaned his elbows on the counter and brought his mouth closer to Adam\u2019s ear.\u00a0 \u201cShe already agreed to dance with me, and I may even invite her outside.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his friend a speculative stare and then volunteered his opinion.\u00a0 \u201cIf you take her outside, you best make sure your pa doesn\u2019t see or hers either.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I won\u2019t.\u00a0 I\u2019m not a fool, Cartwright!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCouldn\u2019t prove that by me,\u201d Adam replied with a smirk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ross punched Adam\u2019s right arm and asked, \u201cWell, at least I\u2019m wise enough to get my asking in ahead of time and without an audience.\u00a0 Who are you planning to dance with?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo one?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going to the social.\u201d\u00a0 Adam managed to sound quite nonchalant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d\u00a0 Before Adam could reply, Ross added, \u201cWon\u2019t Caruthers let you go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI decided not to go.\u00a0 It has nothing to do with Mr. Caruthers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, I can\u2019t believe it.\u00a0 What\u2019s wrong with you?\u201d\u00a0 Ross sputtered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just not going,\u201d Adam replied a petulant edge sharpening his words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ll be…\u201d\u00a0 Before Ross could finish, the tinkling of the bell announced the entrance of Ross\u2019s father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRoss!\u00a0 I\u2019ve been looking all over for you!\u201d\u00a0 Mr. Marquette sounded fit to be tied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy turned to face his father.\u00a0 \u201cSorry, Pa, I just…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou better just get to the wagon.\u00a0 We should have left ten minutes ago.\u201d\u00a0 Mr. Marquette turned on his heel and walked out the door with Ross following quickly in his wake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head and then turned at the sound of a throat being cleared.\u00a0 Josiah Caruthers stood in the doorway between the shop and the workroom.\u00a0 \u201cSir?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, why are you planning to stay home from the social?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cursed mentally and answered, \u201cI just don\u2019t feel like going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d\u00a0 The syllable was sharp and demanding.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just don\u2019t!\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s reply was snappish, and his gaze swept the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah Caruthers stiffened, \u201cI asked for a reason, Adam.\u201d\u00a0 He watched the boy start to speak, swallow, and then shift from foot to foot.\u00a0 \u201cWhat does your father do if you lie to him, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah demanded abruptly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Indignant because he had been considering a plausible lie, Adam retorted, \u201cI haven\u2019t lied!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ice crept into Josiah\u2019s tone, \u201cI did not say you had, boy, but I want an answer not an evasion.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just don\u2019t want to.\u201d\u00a0 The childish whine that infused his declaration made Adam shift and once again lower his gaze to the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHear me, Adam; unless the doctor certifies that you are ill, you shall attend that social.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not open for discussion.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s tone was one Adam had never before heard from the man, but he recognized it.\u00a0 For a moment, it kept a retort from his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah turned and walked back into his workroom.\u00a0 Adam drew in a deep breath and followed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t mean that you\u2019d make me go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah seated himself at his worktable without looking at the boy.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve said the discussion is ended.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not fair!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d\u00a0 The warning was clear, but Adam did not heed it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s not!\u00a0 I have a right to not want to go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah set down the knife he had just picked up. He stood and turned. \u201cCorrect your tone, Adam.\u201d Every line of Josiah\u2019s body demanded obedience.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam forced two words from his mouth.\u00a0 \u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 He drew in a deep breath, \u201cI apologize for any disrespect.\u201d\u00a0 Another deep inhalation preceded his next words.\u00a0 \u201cNow may we discuss it, please, sir?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOnly if you are prepared to give me a clear and truthful answer to my question.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI,I,I don\u2019t want to, well, to, to throw it in Lila Jane\u2019s face that I\u2019m going to a social, and she can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou planned to deny yourself to spare my daughter\u2019s feelings?\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s tone had warmed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose… there\u2019ll be plenty more socials I can go to.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This time Josiah was the one who filled his lungs slowly.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, there is no need for you to give up the social.\u00a0 Lila Jane can attend if she chooses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve considered giving her no choice in the matter, but, well, that can wait until we are positive.\u201d\u00a0 He studied the expression on Adam\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cMy daughter may have to face life in a wheelchair, but I refuse to allow her to face that life as a hermit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe still hasn\u2019t…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBeen successful in even an attempt to stand.\u00a0 Still, Doctor Martin, sees…, well, time will tell.\u00a0 Perhaps she does need to want what she is missing enough to try.\u00a0 You will attend the social, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 The reply sounded more like an acknowledgment that he would be shot at dawn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, Adam, you will try to enjoy yourself.\u201d\u00a0 Adam looked up and caught Josiah\u2019s smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u00a0 I best get back in the shop.\u201d\u00a0 Adam exited and stood leaning on the elbows he had propped on the counter.\u00a0 If he ever tells Pa half of what I\u2019ve said to him and how, I\u2019m dead<\/em>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood at the bottom of the stairs and stared up contemplatively.\u00a0 He chewed his lower lip, swallowed, and then took the steps two at a time.\u00a0 He strode across the sitting room and rapped sharply on the door to Lila Jane\u2019s bedroom.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam opened the door just enough to thrust his head into the room.\u00a0 \u201cI just wanted to tell you your Pa went out and see if you wanted anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shook her head, \u201cNo, nothing, I\u2019ll just ring my bell if I do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that\u2019s just it.\u00a0 I won\u2019t be able to answer your bell for awhile.\u201d\u00a0 Adam eased the door completely open.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u00a0 Are you going out to?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane was startled.\u00a0 She had not been left alone in the house for any length of time since her accident.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not, it\u2019s just, well, I\u2019m going to be in the bath.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe bath?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, the bath.\u00a0 The social\u2019s this evening, you know,\u201d Adam answered cheerily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re going?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, there\u2019s no reason I shouldn\u2019t, is there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no reason, I just… no, there\u2019s no reason at all.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s hand made a dismissive gesture.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam leaned against the door jam and crossed his arms on his chest.\u00a0 \u201cYou could come if you want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I most certainly do not!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you thought I\u2019d stay home and keep you company.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane snorted, \u201cAs if I need your company.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I guess you don\u2019t seeing as how you have your pa tied to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane gasped.\u00a0 \u201cTied to me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCall it what you will.\u00a0 You don\u2019t want to go, so your pa gets to stay home too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWould never leave you alone in this house for hours.\u00a0 You know that.\u00a0 But then I guess he might as well get used to missing out seeing as how you\u2019ve given up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGiven up!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, given up.\u00a0 Deep down you\u2019ve given up, but that\u2019s your business, I suppose.\u201d\u00a0 Adam shrugged and turned his back to Lila Jane.\u00a0 Her hair brush hit the door frame with an echoing thud.\u00a0 Adam spun back around.\u00a0 \u201cShould \u2018ve let me teach you to\u00a0 aim properly,\u201d he observed with a condescending grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI HATE YOU!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s shout reverberated through the room.\u00a0 Her hands clenched, and she pressed them into the mattress on which she sat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou hate hearing the truth.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice remained unruffled.\u00a0 He cocked his head and let his gaze become speculative.\u00a0 \u201cIf you haven\u2019t given up, prove it to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cProve it to you!\u00a0 I don\u2019t have to prove anything to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cThen don\u2019t.\u00a0 Stay here and wallow in misery.\u00a0 I just feel bad for your father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound that rose in Lila Jane\u2019s throat never managed to form a comprehensible word.\u00a0 Adam watched as her hands pushed her legs off the side of the bed.\u00a0 Pressing both hands against the mattress, she struggled to push herself into a standing position.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Come on, come on,<\/em>\u00a0he urged silently.\u00a0 He saw her stand for two seconds before he realized she was going to fall.\u00a0 Her knees banged against the floorboards before he could reach her, but he caught her arms before her head could fall forward.\u00a0 They both ended up sitting on the floor with Lila Jane\u2019s hands beating Adam\u2019s chest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee, see, SEE! \u201c She sobbed.\u00a0 They were still there a minute later when Josiah Caruthers rushed into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on! \u201c He ran to stand over them.\u00a0 \u201cWhat happened!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather !\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s wail cut through both listeners with its desperation.\u00a0 Josiah knelt, lifted his daughter, and held her to him.\u00a0 Adam scrambled to his feet, turned, and ran from the room.\u00a0 Stumbling down the stairs, he ran out the back door.\u00a0 He failed to notice the man standing in the kitchen as he passed him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He did not know how long he sat outside of town staring down the road to the Ponderosa before the old man came and sat beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, now, bucko, have ya earned yourself a strapping this time?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam continued to stare as he pulled his knees up under his chin and wrapped his arms around them.\u00a0 \u201cHow?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMet that Caruthers in the street, and he brought me back to speak with ya.\u00a0 We heard the commotion from downstairs.\u00a0 Caruthers goes up, and next thing I know you come streaking down those stairs like a bat out of h… Hades.\u00a0 I fetched the doc; he\u2019s with the little gal now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s hurt bad?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, don\u2019t think she is.\u00a0 The doc was mostly just to make sure and set Caruthers mind at rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dropped his forehead to rest against his knees.\u00a0 \u201cI didn\u2019t…I just …\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust what, bucko?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought, well, sometimes if you\u2019re mad enough you forget to be scared.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSet to prodding her, did ya?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 His voice lost the little volume that it had held.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe got mad and tried to stand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she fell.\u201d\u00a0 With the last word, Adam\u2019s voice broke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa remember not that long ago when the little bit was learning to walk.\u00a0 Seems he took a few falls before he got the hang of it.\u00a0 Might be the little gal has got to get the hang of things again \u2018fore everything\u2019s working fine.\u201d Old Ned\u2019s hand had come to rest on the boy\u2019s shoulder, and he squeezed it gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr maybe she really isn\u2019t ever going to walk again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa been facing that from the first, bucko.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I… I just wanted her to walk again.\u00a0 I wanted to…\u201d Adam\u2019s sentence faded away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa wanted to fix things.\u00a0 That\u2019s the way you are, bucko, always wanting to fix things, but some things just ain\u2019t yours to fix.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI asked God to do the fixing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes God says no, bucko.\u201d\u00a0 Adam did not speak.\u00a0 Old Ned sat silent for a few minutes and then began softly, \u201cMy ma had this glass vase.\u00a0 Real pretty thing it was \u2018specially when it caught the light. \u00a0Even more though it was special to her \u2018cause it had been her mother\u2019s and hers before her.\u00a0\u00a0 One day I broke it.\u00a0 Pure accident, but still it was me that done it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour ma?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUnderstood accidents, but I saw her cry holding the two pieces.\u00a0 My eldest brother, though, was a handy sort and glued those two pieces back together real neat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo he fixed it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot really.\u00a0 Ma put it back on its shelf, but you could see the break when ya looked, and every time I saw it I felt the way I had seeing my ma crying over them broken pieces.\u00a0 One day I took that vase down and threw it against the floor and stomped on the pieces, ground them with my boot until nobody could have put any of it back together.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the first time since Ned had arrived, Adam turned and looked into the old man\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThink on it, bucko; you\u2019re a smart one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam chewed his lower lip and tugged his left ear.\u00a0 \u201cShe\u2019s not a glass vase.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope, she\u2019s not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened when you smashed the vase?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy pa dealt with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think Mr. Caruthers will, well, think I earned one?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe best go see, bucko!\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned rose and then pulled Adam to his feet.\u00a0 He kept his arm across the boy\u2019s shoulders as they walked back through town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They entered the kitchen by the back door.\u00a0 No one was in the room.\u00a0 Adam stood staring up the stairs with his breath coming shallow and fast.\u00a0 They listened to the sounds coming from above until two men began descending the stairs.\u00a0 When Josiah Caruthers stepped from the shadows into the sunlight beaming through the window, it was clear to both Old Ned and Adam that the man had been crying.\u00a0 The sight cut into Adam with a physical pain.\u00a0 Old Ned felt the boy stiffen and then tremble; he tightened his hold.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoc…\u201d Ned began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, She\u2019s…I\u2019m so sorry!\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s exclamation was a soft wail.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah crossed the room in four strides and clasped Adam\u2019s upper arms.\u00a0 \u201cNo, no, child…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s going to walk, Adam!\u00a0 She\u2019s going to walk!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she, she fell, she…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe felt it!\u00a0 She felt it!\u00a0 She\u2019s going to walk.\u201d\u00a0 The joy in Josiah\u2019s voice slowly convinced Adam of the truth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut how?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, if you\u2019ll give Doc a chance to speak, we might all know a bit more about what\u2019s happening.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned admonished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cQuite right,\u201d Doctor Martin interjected, \u201cLet\u2019s all have a seat.\u201d\u00a0 He motioned toward the chairs around the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ned guided Adam, seated him, and then took the chair beside the boy for himself. \u00a0When they were all settled, Doctor Martin\u2019s professional tones filled the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFirst of all, the fall did no damage other than some bruises to her knees.\u00a0 She felt pain, though, and you do not feel pain if the nerves are severed.\u00a0 We tried some standing under the proper conditions. \u201d The doctor stressed the last two words and sent Adam a stern look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe boy was too presuming and big for his britches again.\u00a0 As I told ya, we\u2019ve been working on it for some time, but that can wait.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned exchanged a glance with Josiah Caruthers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat is as it may be.\u00a0 The bottom line is that my prognosis is definite.\u00a0 With time and effort Lila Jane will walk again.\u00a0 There will probably be some residual weakness especially when she is fatigued and quite possibly a slight limp, but she will walk again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank the Lord.\u201d\u00a0 The words left Josiah\u2019s lips as a fervent prayer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll walk for real and true?\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s gaze bore into the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin heard the plea for reassurance and replied simply, \u201cFor real and true.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow ain\u2019t that just too fine!\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned declared with a hearty slap to Adam\u2019s back.\u00a0 \u201cYa know sometimes God says yes, bucko.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam just nodded, but his eyes shone.\u00a0 \u201cLila Jane…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs upstairs resting.\u00a0 She wore herself out in more ways than one.\u201d\u00a0 Doctor Martin stood and looked at Josiah.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll be by tomorrow morning to set a plan of recovery.\u00a0 There\u2019s still a long road ahead; at times it will be a painful one, but I\u2019m quite confident it will be a successful journey.\u00a0 No need to see me out, Josiah.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah sprang to his feet anyway and ushered the doctor out through the shop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou want I should stay or go, bucko?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dropped his eyes to the table. \u201cIf you\u2019re going to whittle my backside back down to fit my britches…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cIf there\u2019s whittling to be done, it\u2019s Mr. Caruther\u2019s place to do it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Old Ned reached out and patted Adam\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve strong doubts he\u2019ll think it\u2019s needed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned his head to smile at Ned.\u00a0 \u201cYou don\u2019t need to stay, Ned; I\u2019ll be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat you will, bucko!\u201d\u00a0 Ned gave Adam another back slap as he stood.\u00a0 Then he grinned and admonished, \u201cAs long as you remember what I said about those saloons.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes, but made sure to keep them turned from Old Ned\u2019s view.\u00a0 \u201cYes, sir,\u201d he replied with exaggerated humility.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa know I can tell when you\u2019re shining me on.\u201d\u00a0 The severity in his voice was as fake as the glare he sent the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNed,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice had become soft and sincere, \u201cI\u2019m glad you were here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo am I, bucko.\u201d\u00a0 Old Ned made his exit whistling, and Josiah walked back into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Caruthers,\u201d Adam began as he stood to face Lila Jane\u2019s father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I would like you to do something for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would like you to kneel with me as I offer a prayer of thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and sank to the floor.\u00a0 Josiah knelt beside him and bowed his head.\u00a0 When his prayer ended, he stood and pulled Adam to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cThank you too, Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI shouldn\u2019t have, well; I shouldn\u2019t have done things the way I did.\u00a0 I just…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou wanted to help my daughter, and in the end you did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI could have hurt her instead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah sighed and shook his head.\u00a0 Tapping his chin with his forefinger, he made a decision.\u00a0 \u201cYou do sometimes have a problem with disrespect and presumption, boy.\u00a0 I suppose it is time I dealt with that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Biting his lower lip, Adam responded, \u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, there\u2019s no help for it.\u201d Josiah watched as Adam shifted from one foot to another.\u00a0 \u201cI shall have to restrict you to the house for the rest of the day.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry to have to deny you the social, boy, but you have to learn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cocked his head slightly and studied Josiah\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cYes, sir.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Anything else, sir?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat and an early bedtime will suffice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, I\u2019ll be upstairs.\u201d\u00a0 Adam turned and took the stairs two at a time.\u00a0 It\u2019s a wonder Lila Jane\u2019s not the most spoiled girl in the territory<\/em>!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam walked to Lila Jane\u2019s door and paused. The door had not closed completely.\u00a0 As he stood there, the sound of slow breathing and a soft snore came to his ears.\u00a0 A smirk crossed his face as he turned and walked to the settee.\u00a0 Settling himself on the dark green cushions, he relaxed and closed his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he woke, Adam yawned, stretched, and realized he now lay on the settee.\u00a0 His stocking feet were on the seat, his boots on the floor, and a summer quilt draped over his legs.\u00a0 The light coming in the windows had softened, and Adam realized several hours had passed.\u00a0 Then he heard the tinkle of Lila Jane\u2019s bell.\u00a0 He was on his feet in seconds and hurried to her door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you need, Lila Jane?\u201d he called without opening it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor what?\u201d he pushed the door open a slight bit more.\u00a0 \u201cI can…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you can\u2019t!\u201d\u00a0 There was embarrassment in her voice, and it dawned on Adam what she needed.\u00a0 \u201cJust my father, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d he replied hastily and took a step back.\u00a0 Then Adam heard footsteps behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo put your boots on, Adam.\u00a0 I\u2019ll see to Lila Jane.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah walked passed Adam and into his daughter\u2019s room shutting the door firmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drifted back to the settee and pulled on his boots.\u00a0 A few minutes later, Josiah came out of the bedroom.\u00a0 Adam rose quickly to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take that, Mr. Caruthers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cNo, I\u2019ll see to it.\u00a0 Go in and speak to Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded but did not move as Josiah left the room and headed down the stairs.\u00a0 He stared at Lila Jane\u2019s door, took a few steps, and then hesitated.\u00a0 After a dozen seconds, he shook his head to clear it and took a few more steps.\u00a0 He was standing, still and silent, before Lila Jane\u2019s door when Josiah returned to the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Coming up to stand behind the boy, Josiah spoke in low, even tones.\u00a0 \u201cI thought you were going in to see her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tugged his ear and answered in a whisper, \u201cI was but. . .\u00a0 Maybe I should just…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo on in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I, I said, well, some things…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane did not tell me exactly what it was you said, and I don\u2019t intend to ask either of you.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah placed his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cIf you said something for which you should apologize, now is the time to see to it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose,\u201d Adam replied but made no move to step forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, boy!\u201d\u00a0 The pop to his behind held far more sound than sting, but Adam\u2019s eyes widened, and he took an automatic step forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam pushed the bedroom door open and walked into Lila Jane\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane sat in a chair next to her window.\u00a0 She turned her head and smiled as Adam entered her room.\u00a0 \u201cFather told you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Returning her smile, Adam replied, \u201cOf course he did, and I\u2019m not even going to say I told you so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane snorted and stuck out her tongue.\u00a0 Adam strode across the room and stared down at her with a mock glare.\u00a0 \u201cThat was rude, little girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She returned his glare with a superior smirk.\u00a0 \u201cI meant it to be.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes, and Lila Jane giggled.\u00a0 He went down on his heels and looked directly into her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane, I said, umm, some things that, well, they were…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSuppose to make me mad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yea, but they were rude and mean, and, umm…\u201d Adam drew in a deep breath and exhaled his final words, \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m not,\u201d Lila Jane paused to watch the flicker in Adam\u2019s eyes and then said, \u201cnot sorry that you did it, I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted and settled on his backside.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re exasperating, Lila Jane!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot any more than you\u2019re infuriating, Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you forgive me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou could just say so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane batted her lashes gently and honeyed her voice.\u00a0 \u201cI accept your kind apology, fine sir, and grant you all my forgiveness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOne day, Lila Jane!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOne day you\u2019re going to dance with me just like I said before.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if I don\u2019t want to dance with you?\u00a0 Do you really think you can make me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0 The word rang with assurance.\u00a0 Adam heard a challenge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you can\u2019t.\u00a0 If I don\u2019t want to dance with you, I won\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s head dropped, her teeth sunk into her trembling lower lip, she sniffed, and a tear rolled down her cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was on his knees in a moment leaning toward her and saying, \u201cI\u2019ll dance with you, Lila Jane.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be glad to dance with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Raising her chin, Lila Jane allowed her most galling smirk to settle on her lips.\u00a0 \u201cSee.\u00a0 I told you I could.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy!\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s anger shot him to his feet.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll never…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane cocked her head, \u201cWill you go back on your word, Adam Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you didn\u2019t cross your heart or spit in your hand, but I thought you meant what you said.\u201d\u00a0 The challenge was in her voice again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI did,\u201d Adam declared as his hand rose from his hip and rubbed the bridge of his nose.\u00a0 Then his own smirk grew on his face.\u00a0 \u201cI said I\u2019d dance with you, Lila Jane, and I shall.\u00a0 I\u2019ll dance with you at your wedding.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane conceded gracefully, \u201cFair enough.\u201d\u00a0 Her eyes dropped to her lap.\u00a0 \u201cYou better get dressed for the social.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not?\u00a0 But you said…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was, but now, well, I can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m,\u201d Adam cleared his throat, \u201cI\u2019m being punished.\u201d\u00a0 The color rose on his cheekbones.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRightly so, I should imagine.\u201d\u00a0 Then Lila Jane smiled, \u201cWant to play chess after supper?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam blew out a deep breath and shrugged, \u201cSure after you dry the dishes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane shrugged in reply. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019ll be the one washing them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put the money in the cash drawer and shut it.\u00a0 He smiled at the thought that he had sold the cowboy not only the work boots he had come to buy but a fancy pair for showing off on Saturday nights.\u00a0 He leaned back against the wall and began humming softly thinking about the fact that the telegram he would send that afternoon would be the last since his family should be returning within a week.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Doctor Martin entered the shop from the workroom and greeted the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd how are things with you this fine day, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThings are going real well.\u201d\u00a0 He hesitated a moment and then asked, \u201cAren\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019re asking how Lila Jane is doing, I\u2019m pleased to tell you that they are.\u00a0 She\u2019s making steady progress now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s dimples shone.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve helped her a few times, and I thought so, but, well, with Lila Jane…\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s lips pursed in a rueful smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Adam.\u00a0 Is there something I don\u2019t know about?\u201d the doctor asked with professional concern.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not really, I mean…\u201d\u00a0 Adam tugged his left ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOut with it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just that it seems like… I mean every day she seems to get stronger, and she\u2019s even taking a few steps on her own, so you\u2019d think she\u2019d be getting happier and happier, but she just seems to be getting grumpier and more irritable.\u00a0 Sometimes I don\u2019t see why Mr. Caruthers puts up with her attitude.\u00a0 I wouldn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not easy for her, Adam.\u00a0 This kind of struggle can wear of person down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but, well, she\u2019s no business taking it out on those helping her.\u00a0 When she thought she might not walk again, well, that might be some excuse, but now she knows that\u2019s not so and needs to be taken in hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Doctor Martin raised his eyebrow at Adam\u2019s authoritative tone.\u00a0 \u201cYou think so?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI certainly do,\u201d Adam declared without registering the doctor\u2019s own tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that may be, Adam, but you had best remember that in Lila Jane\u2019s case any taking in hand is Josiah Caruthers\u2019s prerogative.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This time the doctor\u2019s tone did register, and Adam\u2019s \u201cYes, sir, I know,\u201d was delivered promptly and politely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor\u2019s forefinger tapped his chin.\u00a0 \u201cDo you still have your buggy and team here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe getting out for a ride would help Lila Jane\u2019s mood.\u00a0 It is a fine day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Caruthers has several orders coming due, I don\u2019t know…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was just a suggestion.\u00a0 Well, I\u2019ve other patients.\u00a0 Take care, Adam, and remember what I said.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam made sure that the doctor did not see him roll his eyes and answered, \u201cYes, sir.\u00a0 I will.\u00a0 Have a good day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam waited until he heard Josiah descend the stairs and enter the shop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Caruthers?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was talking to Doctor Martin, and he thought, well, that Lila Jane might be feeling cooped up, and a buggy ride would be a good idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah rubbed his temple.\u00a0 \u201cI wish I could afford to leave the workshop, but I just can\u2019t today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you set her in the buggy, I could drive her around a bit.\u201d Adam volunteered.\u00a0 He saw the instant rejection on Josiah\u2019s face and quickly added, \u201cThat\u2019s if you trust me to take care of her.\u201d\u00a0 He added just a touch of injured feeling to his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah gave him an appraising glance.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s not a matter of trust, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at Lila Jane\u2019s father with a steady and challenging stare, \u201cBut it is, sir.\u00a0 You know I can drive the team safely, that I\u2019ve driven on my own before, and that I know the area, so it couldn\u2019t be anything else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re walking a fine line, child.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean no disrespect, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill it\u2019s there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dropped his eyes and softened his voice, \u201cPlease let me take Lila Jane for a drive.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be real careful.\u201d\u00a0 He considered adding, If I lose her, you can keep me upstairs on bread and water until my pa comes home <\/em>but\u00a0decided that might be crossing the wrong line.\u00a0 \u201cPlease.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA short drive and not through the middle of town,\u201d Josiah capitulated.\u00a0 \u201cAny foolishness and you\u2019ll see a new side of me which I doubt you will like.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam failed to resist, \u201cI understand; I wouldn\u2019t want a real talking to.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had started toward the kitchen before Josiah stated, \u201cMake that a necessary taking to,\u201d with a pronounced stressing of the word necessary<\/em>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Surprise brought Adam up short for a second, then he delivered a snappy, \u201cYes, sir!\u201d\u00a0 before going to inform Lila Jane of the planned buggy ride.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam slowed the horses and eased the buggy off the road. Setting the brake, he drew in a deep breath.\u00a0 He turned his head and looked at the girl beside him.\u00a0 Lila Jane sat silently staring out toward the mountains in the distance.\u00a0 He turned his eyes forward again and brought his hand up to massage the bridge of his nose.\u00a0 When Adam had told Lila Jane about the buggy ride, she had seemed to perk up with pleasure at the thought, but as they had driven to the edge of town and down the rode her mood had soured, and Adam had no idea as to why.\u00a0 After a few minutes, he stated flatly, \u201cIf you want to go back, just say so.\u00a0 It\u2019s not like it\u2019s any skin off my nose.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo.\u201d\u00a0 The syllable dripped icy mockery.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s fingers clenched.\u00a0 \u201cFine!\u2019\u00a0\u00a0 He reached to release the brake, but his hand stopped abruptly.\u00a0 \u201cNo!\u00a0 There are some things I want to say to you, and this is a fine place for saying them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo say them; it\u2019s not like I have to listen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you\u2019ll listen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr what?\u201d\u00a0 She gave a disdainful snort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shifted so he could deliver the glare that burned in his eyes. \u201cThere\u2019s nothing to stop me from pulling you across my knee and blistering your behind.\u00a0 I know you\u2019ve gotten enough feeling back to make it worth my while.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou wouldn\u2019t dare!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane shot the glare right back at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Would I<\/em>?\u00a0 Thought delayed his response for a second.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know you wouldn\u2019t so don\u2019t bother with the threat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat makes you so sure I wouldn\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Five seconds passed, and then Lila Jane said simply, \u201cThe look in your eyes right after you slapped me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swung his head to stare again at the horses backsides and mumbled softly, \u201cThat was different,\u201d but then he realized that his anger had been doused and what Lila Jane said was true.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust take me home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stiffened his spine.\u00a0 \u201cWhether you listen or not, I intend to have my say.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo ahead then.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane gave a trivializing wave of her hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The anger returned.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ve been acting like a brat, Lila Jane, a mean-spirited, spoiled, self-centered little brat, and it\u2019s time you grew up and behaved.\u00a0 Your father deserves better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, my father deserves better, does he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think so even if you don\u2019t.\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was cold and calm though his eyes burned.\u00a0 His stare was fixed on the girl at his side, and he had been in enough fights, despite his pa\u2019s admonitions, to not be caught off guard.\u00a0 His hand locked on her wrist and stopped hers a bare half-inch from his cheek.\u00a0 Lila Jane growled in frustration as she tried to jerk her hand free. When she could not, she tried to raise her other hand, but Adam pinned it against the seat back.\u00a0 She struggled, the buggy rocked, and her unbalanced weight propelled her toward the opening in the side.\u00a0 For a moment both Adam and Lila Jane thought she would tumble out to the ground.\u00a0 When Adam pulled her against him, she buried her face in his shirt until the buggy settled into stillness once more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Lila Jane?\u201d\u00a0 This time his voice was the one he used to cajole his little brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes it matter?\u201d Her voice held a deep weariness as she pulled herself away from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, it does.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot to you, not really.\u00a0 In a few days you\u2019ll go home to your family.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam studied her profile.\u00a0 \u201cWell, yeah, but that doesn\u2019t mean that what happens to you and your pa doesn\u2019t matter to me.\u00a0 I\u2019m your friend, Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, really, my friend, and what are you to my father?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s brow furrowed.\u00a0 \u201cWhat are you trying to say, Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her shoulders lifted and fell.\u00a0 Then she turned her eyes to his, and he saw they had become dark and hollow.\u00a0 \u201cAre you the son he never had and always wanted, perhaps?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam blinked in surprise.\u00a0 \u201cI…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t need another father.\u00a0 Father knows that.\u00a0 You sit there fussing at me about hurting him when you\u2019re the one that\u2019s really going to hurt him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what on earth…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou gave him a taste, a little taste of what he wanted; just enough to set him craving, and now you\u2019ll jerk the plate away.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane managed to shift her body enough to bury her face against the back of the buggy seat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat…\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s tugged his left ear.\u00a0 \u201cI mean…\u201d\u00a0 He tugged his ear again.\u00a0 \u201cWhy do you think your pa is pining for a son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had a brother, well, almost.\u00a0 My mother had a still born boy a year before I was born.\u201d\u00a0 Her words were muffled but audible.\u00a0 \u201cI heard my folks talking once when they thought I was asleep.\u00a0 I\u2019ve known ever since how Father really wanted a son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy God, Lila Jane, you can\u2019t think your pa loves you less than he would a son!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned to face him.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re the kind of son he would have wanted to have.\u00a0 I heard him say it to Doctor Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI…\u201d Adam tried to catch the correct words from the thoughts that tumbled through his mind.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s just…it doesn\u2019t mean…your pa\u2019s a fine man…”\u00a0 Adam swallowed.\u00a0 \u201cHe loves you, Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane sighed.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m tired, Adam, please take me home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam chewed his bottom lip and then cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cWhen we first settled here before my pa married Marie, there was this lady.\u00a0 She, well, she and her brother, they became friends of pa, of us all really.\u00a0 She treated Hoss and me, well, she treated us good. She, well, women they\u2026 it\u2019s different from the way a man treats a child, and we didn\u2019t have any mother.\u00a0 She made me think about having a mother, but that didn\u2019t, well, didn\u2019t have anything to do with how I felt about my pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHer brother died, and she went back East.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour pa got married again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane made no reply, and after a few minutes of silence Adam gathered the reins, released the brake, and turned the buggy toward town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he drove, Adam knew she was weeping, but he had nothing to offer her not even a clean pocket handkerchief, so he stayed silent and kept his eyes on the road.\u00a0 At the edge of town, he stopped the buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll see that you\u2019ve been crying.\u00a0 There\u2019s no way around it.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane only sniffed in reply.\u00a0 \u201cWhat are you going to say when he asks why?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 I could always tell him it\u2019s your fault.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine.\u201d\u00a0 The word turned Lila Jane\u2019s face toward him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI could make him angry with you, even without lying I could get you in trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo ahead.\u00a0 Then neither of us will have to tell him the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe might punish you for real this time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said he would.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane blinked.\u00a0 \u201cWhat did he say he would do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes it matter?\u201d\u00a0 His tone had remained flat and unconcerned, but she had felt the involuntary shifting of his body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe didn\u2019t say he\u2019d thrash you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot in those words.\u201d Adam shrugged, \u201cWhat does it matter to you?\u00a0 You\u2019ve gotten me hidings before.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve gotten you hidings!\u00a0 Why I never!\u201d\u00a0 she declared indignantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you did, and you know it.\u00a0 You stole my drawers and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood night!\u00a0 You said yourself you got that whipping because you weren\u2019t supposed to be swimming.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Pa never would have known I was if I had had my drawers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane rolled her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cI can\u2019t believe you\u2019re still holding a grudge over that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not holding a grudge; I am just reminding you that you\u2019ve gotten me hidings before, and it never bothered you one little bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI told you I was sorry about the drawers.\u00a0 How was I to know that would get you a thrashing?\u00a0 Really!\u201d\u00a0 She snorted.\u00a0 \u201cBesides how do you know what bothered me and what didn\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This time Adam snorted.\u00a0 \u201cAm I supposed to think you spent any time weeping into your pillow over my whippings.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s eyes flickered away from his for a second and then dropped to her hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m I suppose to care what you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Without considering the action, Adam\u2019s hand caught Lila Jane under her chin and raised it.\u00a0 \u201cDid it really bother you that I got a whipping?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She blew a short breath out of her nose but then answered.\u00a0 \u201cI saw how mad your father was, and later, well, some of the girls said, well, that your father could be real strict.\u00a0 I… I guess I felt bad that your thinking I had broken my promise had gotten you in that much trouble, and we were joking about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a long time ago, Lila Jane; we were just kids.\u00a0 I shouldn\u2019t have slapped you.\u00a0 I blamed you for a long time, but I got that tanning on my own.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWas it really a bad one?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but, well, it\u2019s different for a boy,\u201d Adam replied striving for a dismissive tone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, really?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, anyway, you can tell your pa it\u2019s my fault you were crying.\u00a0 If I get a whipping, well, some would say, considering everything, that it wouldn\u2019t be a lick amiss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane chewed her bottom lip.\u00a0 \u201cI won\u2019t tell him anything that will get you in trouble.\u00a0 I\u2019ll just tell him…uh, I\u2019ll just blame it on something else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d He saw the blush paint her cheeks but could not figure why.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomething.\u00a0 Just never you mind.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think Father would thrash you for real any way.\u201d\u00a0 She chewed her lip again.\u00a0 \u201cPlease don\u2019t say anything to Father about what I, well, what I told you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t.\u00a0 Lila Jane, well, I think all parents, well, most folks, would like to have both boys and girls.\u00a0 I\u2019ve heard Marie say things about liking to have a little girl, but I can tell you the devil himself couldn\u2019t get her to give up little Joe even for a dozen daughters.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think anything you heard your pa say is any more than that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe thinks of lot of you, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe, and I think a lot of him.\u00a0 He\u2019s a good man.\u00a0 But, Lila Jane, he loves you.\u00a0 Really, I don\u2019t think a man could love a daughter more than he loves you.\u00a0 Whatever you heard him say to Doc Martin, well, everybody gets to thinking of what ifs sometimes.\u00a0 I, well, I think what if my mother, my real mother, hadn\u2019t died, but then, well, there\u2019s my brothers and my mamma Inger, and even Marie.\u00a0 It\u2019s just thinking what if.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think about, well, what if he hadn\u2019t died; then I would have had a big brother.\u201d\u00a0 Something had lightened in her eyes, and Adam saw it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you most certainly could use one!\u201d\u00a0 His grin was wicked; Lila Jane\u2019s slap landed on his forearm not his cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard his name a second before the ax bit into the log and then something slammed into his leg.\u00a0 His backward tumble landed him against a solid form, and seconds later he found himself in a tangle of brothers with his name repeating in his ears at several different octaves.\u00a0 Then he felt a familiar weight in his lap and instinctively wrapped his arms around the small body of his baby brother.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re home!\u201d\u00a0 The voice of his brother Hoss boomed in his ear, and a hand slapped his back with an all too familiar smack.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you are!\u201d\u00a0 Adam managed to untangle himself and rise to his feet even with Little Joe clinging like a baby monkey to his neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoys!\u201d\u00a0 His father\u2019s bellow enveloped them all as Ben Cartwright came and pulled Hoss to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Pa, welcome home!\u201d\u00a0 Adam smiled and immediately found himself enclosed by his father\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI missed you, son,\u201d the words settled soft and sincere in Adam\u2019s ears and sunk into his heart.\u00a0 When his father released him, his stepmother stepped into his line of vision.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have all missed you, mon fils<\/em>.\u201d\u00a0 Marie\u2019s hands held his cheeks and drew his forehead to her lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eye caught sight of the ax still caught in a log which had tumbled to the ground half-split.\u00a0 His face grew stern, and his hand caught Little Joe\u2019s chin and held it.\u00a0 \u201cJoseph, you never, never run at someone who is swinging an ax.\u00a0 You were told to stay with Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWanted Adam,\u201d Joe replied tightening his hold on his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you or Adam could have been hurt.\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s voice had sharpened.\u00a0 \u201cYou will obey me from now on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam felt his brother\u2019s reaction and patted his bottom before the little boy could speak.\u00a0 Little Joe heeded the silent admonition and replied, \u201cYes, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Then his lower lip slipped outward, he sniffed and added, \u201cJoe missed Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I missed you, Little Buddy.\u201d\u00a0 Adam squeezed his brother and turned him away from their father\u2019s stern gaze.\u00a0 \u201cYou too, Hoss!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we\u2019re all together now!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Glancing around, Adam asked, \u201cWhere\u2019s Hop Sing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe wanted to speak to Hop Ling before we returned to the ranch.\u00a0 He\u2019ll join us shortly,\u201d Ben replied.\u00a0 \u201cYou have some things to gather, I would imagine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah Caruthers had waited on his porch during the initial minutes of the family\u2019s reunion; now he stepped forward.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s had most of his things packed for the past two days; he\u2019s been that anxious.\u00a0 Go on and finish your packing now.\u00a0 Then we\u2019ll all have a little refreshment before your long ride home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Glancing at his father who nodded approval, Adam replied, \u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 When his little brother\u2019s grip did not loosen but tightened, he asked, \u201cDo you want to help big brother, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe help!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll help too,\u201d Hoss interjected, and the three brothers loped toward the back door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The eyes of all three adults followed them until they disappeared inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBeing away from you was hard on him,\u201d Josiah observed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs it was hard on us all,\u201d Marie replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill from the look of him, it was the right thing to do,\u201d Ben stated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was a blessing to us, Ben.\u00a0 I can\u2019t thank you enough for allowing it.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah\u2019s sincerity was obvious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we thank you for taking care of him.\u00a0 His last telegram said it was sure that Lila Jane would walk.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Lord has been so good, Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHis blessings are indeed many.\u201d\u00a0 Ben returned Josiah\u2019s smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, no reason to stand about in the yard.\u00a0 Come in.\u00a0 Come in.\u201d Josiah\u2019s hand swept toward the door.\u00a0 Marie started to walk ahead of the two men, and Ben held Josiah back with a touch to his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJosiah, were there any problems I need to know of?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah slowly shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cThe only problem is that your son has led me to the breaking of a commandment.\u201d\u00a0 The look of surprised puzzlement on Ben\u2019s face provoked a soft chuckle.\u00a0 \u201cWe are not to covet that which belongs to our neighbor.\u00a0 I\u2019ve coveted you that eldest of yours more than once in the past weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a good boy,\u201d Ben began humbly and but continued, \u201cHe\u2019s a fine son.\u00a0 I am truly blessed.\u201d\u00a0 Then he added in a lighter tone, \u201cHe does have his moments though.\u201d\u00a0 Ben saw the flicker in Josiah\u2019s eyes, but when the man said nothing, Ben Cartwright decided that this was one time when he would not ask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam arrived at the top of the stairs with Little Joe still in his arms.\u00a0 He tried to set his little brother down, but Joe\u2019s hold just tightened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Little Joe, I have to put you down if I\u2019m going to pack my things.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t want to get down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa want Adam to go home with us, don\u2019t ya, Little Joe?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three-year-old\u2019s fingers dug into his brother\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOw! Joe, let go!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d The little boy\u2019s wail pierced the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drew in a deep breath and grabbed for more patience.\u00a0 \u201cNow, Little Buddy, I thought you were going to help me.\u00a0 We have to pack my things, so we can all go home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam come home too?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but I need to bring my things.\u00a0 Will you get down and help?\u00a0 See Hoss is helping me already.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, see, Little Joe, I\u2019m going to fold this blanket that Adam\u2019s been using and put it away \u2018cause he ain\u2019t going to need it no more.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss held up the blanket and waved it in the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe help!\u201d\u00a0 Little Joe pushed against Adam\u2019s chest and nearly slipped to the floor before Adam could place him there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rolling his eyes, Adam went to gather his toilet articles.\u00a0 The three boys threw questions at each other as they quickly placed the rest of Adam\u2019s belongings in his carpet bag, folded the bed clothes that covered the day couch he had used, and set the folding screen aside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that should do it.\u201d Adam declared surveying the room one more time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe ran and took hold of the carpet bag\u2019s handle.\u00a0 \u201cGo!\u201d he cried tugging at the heavy bag.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll carry that, Little Buddy,\u201d Adam said reaching for the bag.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe slapped at Adam\u2019s hand.\u00a0 \u201cNo!\u00a0 Joe help.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s too heavy for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u00a0 Joe big now.\u201d\u00a0 Stomping his foot, the little boy refused to release his hold on the handle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Realizing his brother was racing toward a full-blown tantrum, Adam put his hands on the small shoulders and spoke firmly.\u00a0 \u201cJoe Cartwright, that is not the way a big boy behaves.\u00a0 Brother will carry the bag, and you can carry something else for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s lower lip slid out, and he repeated though more softly, \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss walked over.\u00a0 \u201cYou better stop making a fuss, Little Joe, or Pa\u2019s gonna come up those stairs and swat your bottom.\u201d\u00a0 Joe\u2019s lip thrust out further as he shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cYes, he will.\u00a0 You know he\u2019s done given ya one swat today for throwing a fit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid he, Joe?\u201d\u00a0 Adam inquired in his softest voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nodding, Joe declared, \u201cIt hurted.\u00a0 Pa swats hard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned and picked up the pouting child.\u00a0 \u201cI knew that before you were born!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa sure did!\u201d Hoss teased.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd so did you, Erik Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe settled his head on Adam\u2019s shoulder and slipped his thumb into his mouth.\u00a0 \u201cJoe\u2019s bottom stings.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the blatantly untrue plea for sympathy, Adam looked at Hoss and rolled his eyes but asked Joe, \u201cWhat can Brother do to make it better?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRide Joe downstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d\u00a0 Adam lifted Little Joe onto his shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grabbed the carpet bag and seeing Adam\u2019s hat on the peg snatched it off and slapped it onto Joe\u2019s head where it promptly fell down over his face.\u00a0 \u201cLet\u2019s go!\u201d\u00a0 Hoss headed for the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam started to follow but heard a noise and turned his head.\u00a0 Lila Jane stood in the doorway of her room holding onto the frame.\u00a0 He had forgotten that she was upstairs where she was now able to negotiate the few steps from one handhold to another on her own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait.\u00a0 Hoss take the bag and this little baggage downstairs for me.\u201d\u00a0 As Little Joe began protesting being lifted off his brother\u2019s shoulders, Adam quickly added, \u201cBe good now, Joe, and I\u2019ll give you three rides when we get to the ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStory too!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, three rides and a story.\u00a0 Go on now.\u201d\u00a0 Adam tipped back his hat enough for the child to see, and Hoss took Joe\u2019s hand and led him down the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned toward Lila Jane.\u00a0 \u201cMy folks are back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw from the window.\u00a0 Heard too!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you must have seeing as how you\u2019re not deaf.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe missed you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI missed him too.\u00a0 I missed all of them.\u201d\u00a0 Adam closed the distance between them.\u00a0 \u201cThey\u2019re my family, Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane tilted her head.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s all right to say you love them, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam kept his tone light, \u201cI do, well, most of the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane rolled her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cAre you leaving right away?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour father insists we have something to eat and drink first.\u00a0 Isn\u2019t that why you made that cake?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI like lemon cake.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo does my brother Hoss, so don\u2019t count on any leftovers.\u00a0 Besides we have to wait for Hop Sing.\u201d\u00a0 Adam noticed a strain on Lila Jane\u2019s face and said immediately, \u201cYou better sit down until your father comes up.\u201d\u00a0 He took her arm and helped her to a chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s going to be different without you here,\u201d Lila Jane mused as she settled into the seat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019ve gotten use to having me around?\u201d\u00a0 Adam dropped to the floor in front of her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA body can get use to most anything,\u201d she replied with a toss of her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou could just say that you\u2019ll miss me, girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes, I suppose.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam flashed his dimples.\u00a0 \u201cYou know, Lila Jane, I hardly ever hate you anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, now, doesn\u2019t that just make a girl\u2019s heart flutter!\u201d\u00a0 She batted her eyelashes and patted her chest to emphasis the point.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll have lots if beaus one day, Lila Jane, to make your heart flutter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t be one of them.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s tone was ambiguous as to the reason.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, you told Hoss that time that you liked folks with black hair.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo I did.\u00a0 Conner Clemmons has jet-black hair.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s back stiffened.\u00a0 \u201cConner Clemmons is eighteen!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd handsome and his daddy\u2019s well-off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s got a bad temper!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo do others,\u201d Lila Jane retorted with a pointed look at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe goes with saloon girls,\u201d Adam snapped back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally!\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane\u2019s eyes widened, \u201cYou know for sure?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s cheeks reddened.\u00a0 \u201cWell, yes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane leaned forward.\u00a0 \u201cHow?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLila Jane!\u00a0 There\u2019s some things you don\u2019t discuss in mixed company.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane let a smirk settle on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI swear, Lila Jane…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf your father hears, you\u2019ll be the one getting a swat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sputtered in reply without actually forming an audible word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane laughed.\u00a0 \u201cYou know, it\u2019s probably best that you are going home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs that so?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane nodded.\u00a0 \u201cIf you stayed, eventually Father would have had to thrash you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Probably when I slapped you again!<\/em>\u00a0 Adam kept the thought from moving to his lips and said instead, \u201cI bet it would be the first time he thrashed anyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane tapped her chin with her forefinger as if considering her reply and then shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ll never know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do know some secrets I could share with all those prospective beaus of yours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd there\u2019s a few things I could tell every girl in town of an age to set her cap for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFriends don\u2019t tell each other\u2019s secrets, Lila Jane\u201d Adam admonished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAm I your friend, Adam Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose you better be; I don\u2019t want you for an enemy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine.\u00a0 Will you come play chess once in a while?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay then.\u00a0 Go tell Father I need him to carry me down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The shop bell tinkled.\u00a0 In one fluid motion, Adam rose and swung Little Joe from his lap to Hoss\u2019s.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll see to that.\u201d\u00a0 He disappeared before his little brother could voice a protest.\u00a0 Striding into the shop, he caught sight of the Chinese man standing just inside the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing!\u201d\u00a0 Adam rushed across the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing bowed.\u00a0 \u201cGood to see numbel one son again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam returned the bow and added a beaming smile.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s good to see you too, Hop Sing.\u00a0 I hope you found Hop Ling well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Ling well and glad to know of family in San Francisco.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you enjoyed your trip?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEnjoy going but enjoying coming home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was worried something in San Francisco might lure you away from us.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s tone was only half teasing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMuch mole to tempt Hop Sing home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad.\u201d\u00a0 The sincerity of the words brought a satisfied smile to Hop Sing\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cCome on.\u00a0 Everyone\u2019s in the kitchen.\u00a0 You can have some cake.\u00a0 Lila Jane made it, but we won\u2019t tell her how much better yours is until she\u2019s totally well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cAte with Hop Ling.\u00a0 Will go wait with wagon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to do that Hop Sing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d\u00a0 His wailed name reached their ears, and they both recognized Little Joe\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned his head toward the kitchen and then back to Hop Sing.\u00a0 \u201cWe shouldn\u2019t be long.\u00a0 We can\u2019t be since Pa wants to be home well before dark.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing gave a small bow and then departed as Adam walked back to the kitchen.\u00a0 He heard his stepmother\u2019s voice as he entered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss can take you, little one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWant\u00a0 Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam saw his father\u2019s face darken and spoke quickly.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll take him.\u201d\u00a0 He reached for the three-year-old and plopped Little Joe on his shoulders.\u00a0 \u201cThat was Hop Sing.\u00a0 He said he would wait with the wagon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou invited him back?\u201d\u00a0 The question came at Adam from two directions.\u00a0 He grinned and said, \u201cYes, sirs!\u201d\u00a0 Then he looked down at the middle Cartwright son, \u201cYou\u2019d better come on too, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss flashed his brother an indignant look but rose to his feet and followed his brothers out the back door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head slightly and exchanged a familiar look with his wife.\u00a0 \u201cAs soon as the boys finish, I\u2019m afraid we\u2019ll need to be leaving.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d urge you to stay, but I know it\u2019s still quite a ride for you to the ranch,\u201d Josiah acknowledged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned his head and settled his gaze on Lila Jane.\u00a0 The girl sat in the wheel chair that Adam had created for her.\u00a0 She had said little while they had eaten the refreshments she had prepared except to exchange some quiet feminine chatter with Marie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, child?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI, well, I know that letting Adam come here was hard for your family.\u00a0 I, I just want to say thank you.\u00a0 He was a big help to Father, and we appreciate everything he did.\u201d\u00a0 Lila Jane delivered her speech with her eyes cast down and focused on her hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m pleased and proud that he was of help to you,\u201d Ben replied.\u00a0 \u201cAnd we are overjoyed to find you on the road to a complete recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane\u2019s fingers twisted the fabric of her skirt.\u00a0 \u201cI might not be if Adam, well, his being here made a difference.\u00a0 I, I wanted you to know that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marie was seated next to Lila Jane, and she reached out her hand to place it over the girl\u2019s.\u00a0 \u201cThank you.\u201d\u00a0 She squeezed Lila Jane\u2019s hand.\u00a0 \u201cI think for our Adam that it has made a difference also.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane raised her chin and turned her eyes to Marie\u2019s.\u00a0 After a few seconds, a soft smile spread across the girl\u2019s lips, and Marie patted the fingers beneath her own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She should have a daughter<\/em>, Ben mused to himself as he watched.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah watched too, and a shadow passed across his face.\u00a0 If only you could be here with our daughter, Lily!<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No one spoke for the next few moments; then the sound of the boys returning broke the silence, and the adults rose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh my, I never gave a thought…\u201d Josiah began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Marie turned inquiring faces toward him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe buggy!\u00a0 Really, it would be much more comfortable for Mrs. Cartwright.\u00a0 Adam and I can have it…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe buggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard his father\u2019s words as he walked back into the room. Swallowing convulsively, he paused. He knew that his father would never begrudge the use of the buggy, but it suddenly occurred to him that he had no authority to have had the buggy relocated from the ranch without even asking his father\u2019s permission.\u00a0 He heard a gruff voice in his head, \u201c… too presuming and big for his britches again.\u00a0 As I told ya, we\u2019ve been working on it for some time<\/em>!\u201d\u00a0 Adam cleared his throat and hoped his pa would not think it something that needed working on today.\u00a0 \u201cUh, Pa, um, the Caruthers don\u2019t have a buggy with their living in town and all, but, well, ours is here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, and the team.\u00a0 We\u2019ve used it a few times to give Lila Jane a change of scene.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have?\u201d Ben\u2019s voice was neutral.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a wonderful idea!\u201d\u00a0 Marie\u2019s voice rushed into the conversational pause.\u00a0\u00a0 She addressed Josiah, \u201cIt would still be of use to you, would it not?\u00a0 We will leave it with you for a time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, No, I couldn\u2019t allow that.\u00a0 It was too much really that we used it this long,\u201d Josiah hurried to decline.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense, nonsense,\u201d Ben\u2019s voice rose to drown out all opposition.\u00a0 \u201cMarie is entirely correct.\u00a0 When Lila Jane is getting around more easily, we can pick it up one Sunday after church.\u00a0 Better yet, you can use it to come out to the ranch and stay for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah tried again, \u201cWe simply can\u2019t impose…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is no imposition.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Realizing the risk, Adam plunged in anyway.\u00a0 \u201cNo sense arguing with my pa, Mr. Caruthers, he\u2019s as stubborn as Whisky Sam\u2019s old mule about some things.\u201d\u00a0 The look he received from both men made Adam take an involuntary step back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is settled then,\u201d Marie inserted taking her husband\u2019s arm.\u00a0 \u201cAnd so we must be going.\u00a0 The cake was lovely, Lila Jane.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure was!\u00a0 Ain\u2019t but that one itty, bitty piece left all alone there by itself,\u201d Hoss declared with a pronounced gaze at the dessert.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss…\u201d The admonishment was clear in Ben\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs welcome to put that piece out of its lonely misery,\u201d Lila Jane stated cheerily as she swiftly placed the piece on a cloth napkin and then into Hoss\u2019s outstretched hand.\u00a0 \u201cYou can take it with you, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Lila Jane!\u201d\u00a0 Hoss beamed, and Adam sent Lila Jane a smile bedecked nod.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From his position on Adam\u2019s hip, Little Joe declared, \u201cShare!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss obligingly broke off a bit and popped it into Joe\u2019s open mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave a momentary gaze heavenward but said only, \u201cLet\u2019s go, boys; we need to be getting on home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Josiah went behind Lila Jane and pushed her chair as they followed the Cartwrights through the workroom and the shop and finally out the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took over five minutes to get everyone settled satisfactorily and for a second round of farewells to be exchanged.\u00a0 As the wagon began to roll down the street, Adam turned to look back.\u00a0\u00a0 Lila Jane had risen from her chair and taken a step forward.\u00a0 She stood with her father\u2019s arm around her waist.\u00a0 Seeing Adam\u2019s head turn, she raised her hand and waved.\u00a0 Adam waved back, turned, and settled his chin on the curly head of the brother sitting in his lap.\u00a0 He sighed remembering that he had promised the boy not only three rides but a story when they got home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Epilogue. . .<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

The music drowned out the sound of Ben\u2019s footsteps as he walked up behind his youngest son.\u00a0 Reaching for the cup in Little Joe\u2019s hand, he snatched it from the boy just before it touched Joe\u2019s lips.\u00a0 He brought the cup to his nose and sniffed.\u00a0 Little Joe turned and then shifted from one foot to another and back again.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s eyebrows drew together.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is from the gentleman\u2019s punch bowl, Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs it, Pa?\u00a0 I must\u2019ve made a mistake.\u201d\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s eyes dropped to the floor avoiding his father\u2019s glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou certainly did, young man!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean to, Pa, really, and I didn\u2019t drink none.\u201d\u00a0 The nine-year-old shifted feet again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Someone laughed, and Ben was reminded of the occasion.\u00a0\u00a0 His hand came up and caught Joe\u2019s chin and directed the boy\u2019s eyes to his.\u00a0 \u201cThis is your one warning, Joseph.\u00a0 Do I need to state the consequences of failing to heed that warning in any way?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir, I know them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo I need to keep you at my side?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir, Pa, please!\u201d\u00a0 It was a plea not a protest.\u00a0 Ben released his hold.\u00a0 \u201cAll right then.\u201d\u00a0 His son darted off into the crowd before Ben could reconsider his decision.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard a soft chuckle and turned his head toward the sound.\u00a0 Josiah Caruthers had come to stand next to Ben.\u00a0 He had obviously witnessed at least part of the previous scene.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat boy!\u201d\u00a0 Ben shook his head ruefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs a fine lad like his brother.\u201d\u00a0 Josiah nodded toward the glass cup in Ben\u2019s hand.\u00a0 \u201cYou could just drink that.\u00a0 It\u2019s really quite good.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lifting the cup, Ben replied, \u201cAs are all the refreshments.\u00a0 This is quite the reception, Josiah.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u00a0 Having only one daughter to give away, Ben, I decided long ago she would be married in style.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard a certain tone in the man\u2019s voice and observed, \u201cLila Jane\u2019s not moving away.\u00a0 She intends to help in the shop at times, doesn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor a while.\u00a0 At least until the grandchildren come.\u201d \u00a0Ben watched a smile creep onto Josiah\u2019s lips.\u00a0 \u201cNow there\u2019s the consolation, Ben.\u00a0 I keep telling myself Lila Jane\u2019s marriage is my only chance to become a grandfather.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Returning the smile, Ben replied, \u201cA new set of blessings.\u00a0 The Lord does indeed provide compensations.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat he does, Ben, and I intend to enjoy mine.\u00a0 After all, she\u2019s married a fine lad, and my son-in-law, well, perhaps I shall find him the next best thing to a son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and slapped Josiah on the back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CCCC<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the pause between dances, Adam strolled across the room and stood before the bride.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s time I fulfilled my promise, don\u2019t you think?\u201d\u00a0 He bowed slightly from the waist and slipped Lila Jane into his arms before she could respond.\u00a0 The music began, and he swirled her away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She titled her head back to have a clear view of his face.\u00a0 \u201cSo you do remember; I thought you might have forgotten.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know I have a memory like a steel trap.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, at least one that\u2019s as sharp.\u00a0 We thought perhaps you wouldn\u2019t arrive in time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI almost didn\u2019t.\u201d\u00a0 Adam considered the fact that he had returned from college less than two weeks before.\u00a0 \u201cYou knew when I was leaving Boston; you should have considered that when setting the date.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSilly me, not to think of it.\u201d\u00a0 She batted her lashes at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He arched his eyebrow but made no rejoinder.\u00a0 Instead he said, \u201cYou look quite lovely today, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A serious glint came into her eyes, and her teeth sunk into her lower lip.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, when I came down the aisle, well, could you…did I limp?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou floated.\u00a0 You shouldn\u2019t need to ask; that\u2019s in the past, Lila Jane.\u00a0 My goodness, girl, you\u2019ve danced with half the males in the hall.\u201d\u00a0 He watched the shadow leave her face.\u00a0 \u201cIt wouldn\u2019t matter if you had any way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane sighed.\u00a0 \u201cYou don\u2019t understand women, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 You should let me give you lessons, but then you never even taught me to aim correctly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou never promised not to throw things at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t make promises I know I can\u2019t keep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you meant the vows you made today?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou love him, Lila Jane?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor real and true, Adam.\u00a0 How else would I be floating?\u201d\u00a0 She smiled.\u00a0 \u201cI think you will like him too when you get to know him.\u00a0\u00a0 He plays a wicked game of chess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes he beat you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs often as you do,\u201d Lila Jane admitted.\u00a0 \u201cI intend to invite you to dinner after we\u2019ve settled in.\u00a0 You\u2019ll come, won\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure you want me to?\u00a0 If I get to like this husband of yours, I may feel obligated to advise him about how to handle, shall we say, his wife\u2019s little foibles.\u201d\u00a0 Adam favored her with a smirk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lila Jane snorted.\u00a0 \u201cAnd we all know your views on that subject.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do at least.\u00a0 Am I still invited?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cConsidering that I still have several means of blackmail when it comes to you, Adam Cartwright, you are still invited.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes your father like this husband of yours?\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s tone had grown more serious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 He and Father get on very well.\u00a0 They\u2019ll be great friends once Father forgives him for stealing his only daughter away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid your grandfather ever forgive your father for stealing your mother away?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot completely.\u00a0 Did yours?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cLike yours, not completely.\u00a0 But Pa allowing me to go to college in Boston moved him almost the rest of the way down the road.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you got to know your grandfather, Adam.\u00a0 Was he what you expected him to be?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn some ways.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She saw the gleam that came into his eyes and raised an eyebrow in inquiry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He kept the rising blood from painting his cheeks then chuckled before he admitted, \u201cYou’ll be gratified to know he had a very heavy hand on the reins especially that first year.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d\u00a0 Her eyes sparkled.\u00a0 \u201cTell me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot on your life!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLater then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get it out of you yet, you know.\u201d\u00a0 Her voice was honeyed, but her lips curled into a familiar smirk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted, but the impulse to slap her was only momentary.\u00a0 She read it in his eyes and laughed.\u00a0 He shook his head and twirled her almost off her feet.\u00a0 Then he laughed too.\u00a0 After all, she\u2019s still Lila Jane!<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

February 2009<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0 Young Adam hated Lila Jane for over four years, two months, and seventeen days before an accident changes their relationship.<\/p>\n

Rating: T\u00a0\u00a0 Word count: 41,129 Warning: corporal punishment as part of family discipline<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":143,"featured_media":47969,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1005,23,41,30],"tags":[14,15,17,16],"class_list":["post-13145","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-adam-cartwright","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","category-prequels","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-hoss","tag-joe","wpcat-1005-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id","wpcat-30-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":3021,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Lake-Tahoe-view.jpeg?fit=620%2C349&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":7580,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7580","url_meta":{"origin":13145,"position":0},"title":"The Wheelchair (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0Years later Adam\u2019s wheelchair from \u201cThe Triangle\u201d comes out of the attic. Rated:\u00a0K+\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0667 The Wheelchair Series, links to stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Bird.jpg?fit=323%2C450&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":7582,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7582","url_meta":{"origin":13145,"position":1},"title":"Doctor’s Orders (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0Ben and Adam face off over the doctor\u2019s orders. Rated:\u00a0K+\u00a0\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0887","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/adam_11.jpg?fit=796%2C638&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":7619,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7619","url_meta":{"origin":13145,"position":2},"title":"Big Ears, Big Fears (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Little Joe listens and learns. Rated:\u00a0 K+\u00a0 Word count:\u00a01035","rel":"","context":"In "Brothers"","block_context":{"text":"Brothers","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1009"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Young-Mike.jpg?fit=217%2C239&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":7668,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7668","url_meta":{"origin":13145,"position":3},"title":"Stampede (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0A cattle drive, a stampede, and one guilty Cartwright make for a simple little tale. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0 1211","rel":"","context":"In "Action\/Adventure"","block_context":{"text":"Action\/Adventure","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=2"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/cattle-drive.jpg?fit=357%2C267&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":49924,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=49924","url_meta":{"origin":13145,"position":4},"title":"The Ugliest Christmas Ornament (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"December 4, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Little Joe thinks an ornament is too ugly for the Cartwright tree. Adam has the opposite opinion in this slice-of-life vignette. Rating: G 610 words","rel":"","context":"In "Brothers"","block_context":{"text":"Brothers","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1009"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/Bonanza-SC-Angel.jpg?fit=385%2C289&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":7623,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7623","url_meta":{"origin":13145,"position":5},"title":"Seeing An Angel (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0A girl from Marie\u2019s past has something for Little Joe. 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