Summary: A skeptic, a dreamer, and a true believer set out on a journey to find gold.<\/p>\n
Written for the 2018 Ponderosa Paddlewheel Poker Tournament.\u00a0 The card \u201csuits\u201d were:<\/p>\n
Anatomy (body parts)
\nFears
\nWhat Women Want
\nThings Found in a Saddlebag<\/p>\n
Rated:\u00a0\u00a0 PG\u00a0 8,890 words<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
A Skeptic, A Dreamer, and A True Believer<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Even at seven he would have been skeptical, now at seventeen he was not just lacking in belief but mentally dismissive, yet he bent closer and managed to appear engrossed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cCould you find it?\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Ellie\u2019s hands rested lightly on his arm, and her breath warmed his cheek as she leaned to look over his shoulder.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOf course.\u201d\u00a0 He straightened and turned his head to gaze into her eyes.\u00a0\u00a0 She believes; she truly believes.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re sure?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He allowed his smile to deepen his dimples.\u00a0 \u201cAbsolutely.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She spun around in excitement setting her curls bouncing.\u00a0 \u201cOh, Adam, just think!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n At that moment all he could think was how delightful and appealing she looked, and how he would do almost anything to keep the adoration radiating from her face directed at him.\u00a0 He turned his eyes back to the hand-drawn map spread on the rock before him.\u00a0 His left hand came up to tug his right earlobe, and he bit the corner of his lip.\u00a0 \u201cYou know, well, sometimes things can get, uh, exaggerated.\u201d\u00a0 He cleared his throat and kept his eyes where he would not see disappointment deflate her enthusiasm.\u00a0 \u201cIt may be that, well, the mine might not be, umm\u2026\u201d\u00a0 He sighed and turned to face her again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She stepped closer and shook her head gently.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m not some silly goose, you know, who thinks we\u2019ll ride up, go in, and walk out with a bag full of nuggets.\u00a0 I know gold mining isn\u2019t like going berry picking even if the mine is a true bonanza.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt may not be any kind of a bonanza.\u201d\u00a0 There I\u2019ve said it.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n She put her finger to her chin and bit on the nail.\u00a0 \u201cMaybe not a bonanza, but even a little strike.\u00a0 You wouldn\u2019t bother drawing a map if there wasn\u2019t anything there, now would you?\u201d\u00a0 Her gaze demanded affirmation; he gave it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t suppose that would make much sense.\u201d\u00a0 I should tell her about fake maps and schemers.\u00a0 But\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cEven a little vein would\u2026\u201d\u00a0 Her tone grew wistful.\u00a0 \u201cEven a little would make all the difference.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Just enough for a new life.\u00a0 That\u2019s all she wants.\u00a0 <\/em>\u201cYes, even a little bit of a mine is better than none.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen you\u2019ll take me.\u201d\u00a0 Her smile bloomed, and her eyes shone.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll be partners, fifty-fifty.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s your map.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Her voice became adamant. \u201cFifty-fifty.\u00a0 I need you, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n His arm slipped around her waist.\u00a0 \u201cShall we seal the deal with a kiss then?\u201d\u00a0 Her arms settled around his neck as their lips met.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When they parted, she settled her cheek against his chest.\u00a0 \u201cWhen shall we go, partner?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He fingered her curls.\u00a0 \u201cWe won\u2019t be able to go and come back in one day.\u00a0 It will take a least two.\u201d\u00a0 He knew she had only one day a week free from her job cooking and serving at Hasson\u2019s<\/em>.\u00a0 He felt the change in her demeanor as she stepped back out of his arms.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Her right hand once again brought her fingernail to her mouth.\u00a0 \u201cI could beg Dolly to work for me.\u00a0 Mr. Hasson might agree for me to have a day off if she takes my place.\u00a0 I could do the same for her the next week.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She knows; deep down she knows even after we return, she might still need her job.<\/em> \u201cThat\u2019s true.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat will you tell your father?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThat I\u2019m going hunting.\u00a0 I\u2019ll just not tell him what I\u2019m hunting for.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe won\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam shook his head.\u00a0 \u201cI go hunting from time to time.\u201d\u00a0 He could still see concern in her eyes.\u00a0 \u201cWith Pa\u2019s blessing.\u00a0 And it won\u2019t matter if I don\u2019t bring back any game.\u201d\u00a0 He gave a small chuckle.\u00a0 \u201cPa knows sometimes what I\u2019m hunting most is a few days without little brothers, a fiery-tempered stepmother, or him.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll talk to Dolly and Mr. Hasson then and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhen they\u2019ve agreed, we\u2019ll make our plans.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She nodded and went to fold the map to the gold mine into a neat square.\u00a0 She then turned and placed it into his hand.\u00a0 \u201cYou can keep it safer.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIf you wish.\u201d\u00a0 He accepted it, and she accepted another kiss.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam surveyed the clearing that had been chosen as a meeting place and then slid from Beauty\u2019s back.\u00a0 His eyes were focused on his horse when he heard the bushes rustle and swung around pistol in hand.\u00a0 The figure that had appeared was dressed in overalls, a plaid shirt, and an oversized hat.\u00a0 Adam opened his mouth to demand an identity, but a high-pitched giggle stopped his words.\u00a0 \u201cEllie?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The giggle continued as the girl stepped closer and doffed the battered headgear.\u00a0 Braids tumbled down as she spun around.\u00a0 \u201cDo you like?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I love how the seat of those overalls is a shade too snug. <\/em>\u201cYes, actually I do!\u201d\u00a0 He grinned, and she wagged her finger.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s a disguise.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou felt in need of a disguise?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIf someone one sees us in passing\u2026\u201d\u00a0 She shrugged her shoulders.\u00a0 \u201cPeople are less likely to notice two boys out hunting.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI doubt anyone…\u201d he swallowed, \u201cbut I suppose you\u2019re right.\u00a0 Folks would take more notice of a girl and a boy.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cEspecially if they recognized Ben Cartwright\u2019s son.\u00a0 We have your reputation to think of.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHang my reputation.\u201d Adam\u2019s tone was dismissive.\u00a0 I\u2019m far more concerned about Pa hanging my hide on the barn door if he should hear such.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut your Pa\u2026\u201d\u00a0 He stopped Ellie\u2019s concern with a finger against her lips.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry about me.\u00a0 Really, it\u2019s your reputation that is most at risk.\u00a0 I should have thought\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMy reputation!\u00a0 I\u2019m a working girl in a mining town, Adam.\u00a0 My reputation is beyond saving among some.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHasson\u2019s<\/em> isn\u2019t a saloon.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes sparked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMore than nine out of ten customers are men, and most wouldn\u2019t be mistaken for gentlemen.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t allow liberties, well, except\u2026\u201d\u00a0 She blushed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I know how few liberties you allow even me. <\/em>\u201cYou\u2019ve nothing to be ashamed of, girl.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNooo.\u201d\u00a0 She chewed briefly on her fingernail.\u00a0 \u201cBut that\u2019s why\u2026 that\u2019s why the gold mine is so important.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n At the words gold mine<\/em>, a gasp preceded a parting in the undergrowth and the appearance of yet another person.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat in tarnation!\u201d\u00a0 The volume of Adam\u2019s voice rose and then sank into a more controlled fury.\u00a0 \u201cHoss!\u00a0 What in blue blazes are you doing here?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s brother answered with a question of his own.\u00a0 \u201cWhat gold mine is she talking about?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Lord in heaven, pray keep me from fratricide! \u201c<\/em>That\u2019s no concern of yours.\u00a0 I asked you what you are doing here, little brother.\u00a0 I want an answer.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss stepped further into the clearing.\u00a0 \u201cGoing hunting with my brother, onliest now I guess we ain\u2019t exactly hunting game.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWe ain\u2019t\u2026aren\u2019t hunting anything.\u00a0 You\u2019re going home.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa will ask why ya sent me back.\u201d\u00a0 A smug look descended onto Hoss\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t like lying to Pa, elder brother.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam crossed his arms and added some older-brother intimidation to his stance.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m pretty sure you must have already lied to Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss\u2019s eyes dropped, but he stood his ground.\u00a0 \u201cNot \u2018xactly.\u00a0 By the time I told him you\u2019d changed your mind about me coming, I figured you probably had.\u00a0 You like me to go hunting with you mostly; I didn\u2019t know when I followed ya that you was meeting up with a gal.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam rolled his eyes and then rubbed the bridge of his nose with his fore finger.\u00a0 Figured I already had, did you? <\/em>\u00a0He chewed the corner of his lower lip.\u00a0 He knows too much to send him home.\u00a0 He\u2019d not tattle on purpose, but\u2026\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI could help ya, Adam.\u00a0 If you\u2019re going mining, I could be a big help.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss turned slightly to address the girl.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m right strong.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie chewed her fingernail for a few seconds.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2026 another partner\u2026 I don\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNot another partner.\u201d\u00a0 Adam huffed.\u00a0 We have to take him with or give up all together.\u00a0 It\u2019s not as if\u2026<\/em> \u201cNot a partner, an assistant, my assistant.\u00a0 His part will come from my share.\u201d A part of nothing isn\u2019t exactly something to be concerned about.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s too young to be a partner.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss gave his brother a glare but turned to Ellie and grinned.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s fine with me.\u00a0 After all you and Adam did the planning.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I\u2019ve done a poor job of that so far it appears. <\/em>\u201cIt\u2019s fine, Ellie.\u00a0 Hoss doesn\u2019t mind sharing, and he can keep a secret.\u00a0 He is strong, and actually he knows the land around here as well as I do.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBetter.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam shook his head and clapped Hoss on the back.\u00a0 \u201cOkay, better.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie\u2019s hand dropped from her mouth and reached toward Hoss in greeting.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m Ellie.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI seen ya at Hasson\u2019s<\/em>.\u00a0 I\u2019m Hoss .\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam decided it was time to take charge.\u00a0 \u201cWe should get started then; it\u2019s almost full light.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie started toward the horse Adam had led into the clearing.\u00a0 \u201cUmm, Adam, there ain\u2019t no saddle on Windy.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI couldn\u2019t exactly explain to Pa how my packhorse needed a saddle.\u00a0 We don\u2019t usually worry about the comfort of dead game.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know.\u201d\u00a0 This time it was Hoss\u2019s eyes that rolled.\u00a0 \u201cA gal shouldn\u2019t be riding without a saddle when there\u2019s one to be had.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cActually, there\u2019s two to be had.\u00a0 Ellie doesn\u2019t ride well enough to handle Beauty, especially when the going gets rougher, so if the gentlemanly thing is to be done\u2026\u201d\u00a0 Adam gestured Hoss toward Windy.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2026\u201d Ellie took another step toward the packhorse.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, seeing how I came without an invite, it\u2019s only right.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss proceeded to settle himself on Windy\u2019s back while Adam helped Ellie mount Buckwheat who actually was one of the Ponderosa\u2019s most biddable mounts.\u00a0\u00a0 He then mounted Beauty.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll get clear of town, and then Hoss can take a look at the map and see if his profound knowledge is of any help.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s a map!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam shook his head at his brother\u2019s exclamation.\u00a0 Another true believer!<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Why I ever agreed to such a fool\u2019s errand!<\/em>\u00a0 Adam pulled Beauty to a stop.\u00a0 Maybe it would be best to just\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAdam! ADAM!\u00a0 I found something!\u201d\u00a0 Adam located Hoss\u2019s voice and headed in that direction with Ellie following close behind.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss had already dismounted and was pulling at undergrowth when Adam and Ellie rode up.\u00a0 \u201cHold on.\u201d Adam dismounted, tied off Beauty, and turned to help Ellie just as her feet touched the ground.\u00a0 He rolled his eyes and walked over to his brother.\u00a0 \u201cI said hold on.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss!\u201d\u00a0 The boy stilled.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAll right then, but this must be it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam studied the area and then focused on the darker opening before him.\u00a0 \u201cIt probably is.\u201d\u00a0 A gasp of joy from the girl standing beside him was answered by a whoop from Hoss. \u00a0Well, I\u2019ll be; there actually is a mine. <\/em>\u00a0\u201cStill, we\u2019ll go about things the right way, the careful way\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe Adam way.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss\u2019s grumble held a note of resignation.\u00a0 He had been Adam\u2019s little brother for eleven years after all.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, my way and don\u2019t you forget it.\u00a0 I\u2019ll not be explaining to Pa how my little brother broke his neck in an abandoned mine.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss\u2019s eye roll was a great deal more pronounced than any that Adam had produced.\u00a0 \u201cAll right.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s hand rubbed his chin.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll settle the horses and set up camp first.\u00a0 In fact, it would be best to wait until the morning\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe morning!\u201d\u00a0 The same exclamation erupted from two different throats at the same time.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam studied the faces of his companions.\u00a0 \u201cWell, a quick check before we eat supper wouldn\u2019t hurt, I suppose.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss\u2019s eyes widened at his brother\u2019s change of heart until he followed Adam\u2019s gaze to Ellie\u2019s face.\u00a0 Then he grinned at the thought that the only thing that could change the decision of a Cartwright male was the pleading eyes of a pretty female.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The horses were tended and a minimal camp set in order quickly.\u00a0 Adam and Hoss then finished clearing the underbrush that covered the opening to the mine.\u00a0 Adam lit a lantern and stepped in front of Hoss and Ellie.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll go first.\u00a0 Then you, Ellie.\u00a0 Then Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cShould I bring my rifle?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam fingered the pistol on his hip.\u00a0 \u201cSet it just inside the opening. \u00a0Don\u2019t want any accidents with a rifle in here. <\/em>\u00a0Do you have some candles in your pocket?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss nodded even though Adam was looking into the opening.\u00a0 \u201cYup, and Lucifers too.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSo do I.\u201d\u00a0 Ellie\u2019s voice was filled with suppressed anticipation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWell, then\u2026\u00a0 Stay close, the both of you.\u201d\u00a0 Adam bent and entered the opening holding the lantern, so it cast a circular glow around the three of them.\u00a0 There was a wider natural chamber that narrowed into a man-made tunnel.\u00a0 Adam moved the light of the lantern over the sides of the chamber.\u00a0 They did not glow, gleam, or glitter with gold.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe vein would most probably be deeper down the tunnel.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss\u2019s excitement had lessened only a shade.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWe really didn\u2019t expect to see golden walls.\u201d\u00a0 Ellie seemed to be reminding herself of the difference between fantasy and reality.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSomeone obviously put some effort in here.\u00a0 The tunnel seems to go back quite a ways.\u201d\u00a0 Adam had moved to where the light shined down the tunnel.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWell, then\u2026\u201d\u00a0 Hoss stepped forward into the tunnel but stopped as a hand grabbed his belt.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI go first!\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s voice snapped, and the hand holding Hoss\u2019s belt jerked back.\u00a0 Hoss did not budge but turned his head to lock eyes with his brother.\u00a0 \u201cMe, Ellie, you, or we don\u2019t go at all.\u201d\u00a0 The last words were delivered in a steel-edged whisper.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam was not sure how much sarcasm Hoss\u2019s response held, but he simply stepped in front of the boy and started down the tunnel.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It happened in a series of small reactions like a toppling line of dominos.\u00a0 Ellie saw a sparking reflection and stopped abruptly.\u00a0 Following behind her, Hoss did not.\u00a0 Hoss fell against Ellie, who knocked into Adam.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s boots slipped on a slick bit of exposed granite.\u00a0 He toppled forward and hit the stone beneath him knees first.\u00a0 His flaying arm swung the lantern further down the tunnel where it tumbled along until it was extinguished thrusting the tunnel into its accustomed blackness.\u00a0 Ellie\u2019s scream echoed just long enough to distract from Adam\u2019s moan.\u00a0 It did not distract from his subsequent expletive.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAdam!\u201d Adam\u2019s eyes rolled as he clutched his right knee; he could not believe he was being reproached by his little brother for cursing. \u201cThere\u2019s a lady present.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI beg your pardon, Ellie.\u201d This time it was Ellie whose eyes rolled; she heard much worse language on a daily basis at work. \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m fine, I think. I mostly landed on you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI was on top of both of ya.\u00a0 Did I mash ya much, Miss Ellie?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie had managed to retrieve a candle, but in the pitch darkness she was having difficulty lighting it. She shook her head though neither boy could see her response.\u00a0 \u201cJust a minute.\u00a0 I\u2019m\u2026\u00a0 There.\u201d\u00a0 The candle illuminated a small area around them.\u00a0 Ellie and Hoss both heard the moan that slipped from Adam as he tried to rise.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s nothing.\u00a0 I just\u2026 I hit my knee.\u00a0 Just give it a minute.\u201d\u00a0 Adam drew his breath in slowly.\u00a0 Adam had had enough injuries, minor and major, to know that he had more than a skinned or bruised knee.\u00a0 He could not know, however, that his patella had three hairline fractures radiating from the point where it had struck a finger of stone sticking up from the rough tunnel floor.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cLet me look.\u201d Sitting next to him, Ellie turned and moved the candle into position over Adam\u2019s leg.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s nothing to see except the leg of my pants.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss knew the irritation in Adam\u2019s voice meant his brother was instinctively covering up an actual injury.\u00a0 There was also a catch in his breath that indicated serious pain.\u00a0 Hoss smoothly pulled out his pocketknife, and before Adam or Ellie realized his intention, he had split the seam of Adam\u2019s jeans from hem to mid-thigh.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat in da\u2026tarnation!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The pocketknife clicked shut and returned to Hoss\u2019s pocket.\u00a0 \u201cNow we can get a look at your knee.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s response was a nonverbal growl.\u00a0 Hoss ignored the growl, and Ellie patted Adam\u2019s arm with her free hand as she lowered the candle over Adam\u2019s knee.\u00a0 It was obvious to all three that the knee was already beginning to swell.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam pushed the candle to the side.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019ll be fine.\u201d\u00a0 He started to rise.\u00a0 When Hoss\u2019s hands pinned him in place, he managed to keep his curse mental.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNope.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss was a boy of few words.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIf it\u2019s truly hurt, standing on it will make it worse.\u201d\u00a0 Ellie had seen several men with lifelong limps due to lack of proper medical treatment.\u00a0 In the most authoritative tone that Adam had ever heard from the girl, Ellie began to issue instructions.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019ll splint it before you try to stand.\u00a0 Hoss, do you think you can find something to use?\u00a0 I\u2019ll stay with Adam and keep him from moving.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss had lit his own candle.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll get the lantern for ya and then go collect things.\u201d\u00a0 He squeezed Adam\u2019s shoulder as he passed him.\u00a0 \u201cYou mind Miss Ellie now.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be back quicker then spit.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cRemember to pick up your rifle on the way out.\u201d\u00a0 Adam felt the need to assert some small measure of authority.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When they had Adam settled, Ellie watched Hoss\u2019s light recede back toward tunnel opening.\u00a0\u00a0 She had moved behind Adam, and he lay with his head in her lap.\u00a0 The relighted lantern crated a small pool of light around them.\u00a0 Adam sighed.\u00a0\u00a0 This isn\u2019t the way I planned to spend some time alone with Ellie this trip.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Her hand smoothed his curls back from his forehead.\u00a0 \u201cJust relax.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThings will be fine.\u00a0 You and that brother of mine\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWill see to you.\u201d\u00a0 Ellie\u2019s hand moved from Adam\u2019s forehead to her mouth, and she began chewing on her fingernail.\u00a0 \u201cHoss will be fine alone, won\u2019t he?\u00a0 Maybe, I should have gone.\u00a0 He\u2019s only a boy.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cA boy who could carry you around the woods which he has spent plenty of time alone in and who can hit most anything he shoots at with that rifle.\u00a0 Don\u2019t be silly.\u00a0 It\u2019s much better that he\u2019s alone in the woods than you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re all here because I\u2019ve already been silly.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u00a0 No.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s head rose from Ellie\u2019s lap, but her hands immediately pinned his shoulders.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s true.\u00a0 It was silly to believe anyone would give me a map to a real gold mine.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, not silly.\u00a0 You did nurse him.\u00a0 There is a mine.\u00a0 We don\u2019t know for sure, well, that there isn\u2019t any gold.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou don\u2019t think there is.\u201d\u00a0 It was a statement not a question.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2026 we can take back some samples.\u201d\u00a0 He could hear defeat in her tone.\u00a0 \u201cYou saw something, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI thought I did.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cShine the light where you thought you did.\u00a0 Go look closer.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, no, the important thing is to take care of you.\u00a0 Maybe latter, maybe after we splint your knee.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s nothing really wrong with my knee.\u201d\u00a0 Ellie let out a derisive harrumph.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, nothing more than a little sprain.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll not argue with you about it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWe haven\u2019t looked the whole length of the tunnel.\u201d\u00a0 Adam wanted to hear belief in her voice again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou won\u2019t be going any further into this tunnel.\u00a0 None of us will.\u201d\u00a0 Adam decided to let her have the last word for the present and settled his head back in her lap to wait.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam was in pain.\u00a0 It was not due to any lack of competence in the way Hoss and Ellie had managed to splint his knee.\u00a0 No, Hoss had experience with injured animals and Ellie was a woman in a territory where women were scarce but doctors even scarcer.\u00a0 Adam had pondered the irony of women being considered incapable of being doctors even though they were always the ones expected to provide care for the sick and injured in the absence of a medical professional. No, Adam\u2019s knee had been successfully splinted and working together, the two had also managed to get Adam back to the campsite without him putting any significant pressure on his right knee, though it had taken time and considerable effort on the part of all three of them.\u00a0 Thankfully, no energy had been wasted in arguing because Hoss had not been positive that he could carry his elder brother the entire way without risk of further injury.\u00a0\u00a0 No, Adam\u2019s pain was the natural result of his fractured kneecap and the fact that they had traveled without anything to numb pain: no laudanum and not even any whiskey.\u00a0 Hoss and Adam had both heard of natural plants and herbs that helped with pain, but none they could remember were immediately available or likely to be located in the dark.\u00a0 So, Adam\u2019s pain was keeping not only himself but his companions awake.\u00a0 Though Adam tried mightily and actually quite successfully to hide the degree of his pain, both Ellie and Hoss knew he was suffering and felt guilty for being the cause.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Any nails that had graced Ellie\u2019s fingers at the start of the day were gone, and she was now chewing unconsciously on the inside of her cheek.\u00a0 She took a wet cloth, twirled it through the air to cool it, and laid it gently again across Adam\u2019s knee.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIs there anything\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u201d\u00a0 Adam realized he had been far too abrupt and curt and made his tone gentler.\u00a0 \u201cNo, there\u2019s nothing I need.\u00a0 I\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI just wish there was something more I could do.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019ve done everything a body could.\u00a0 You and Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2026 I don\u2019t know what I would have done without Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYa wouldn\u2019t have had to worry \u2018bout doing nothing except what you all planned iffen I hadn\u2019t knocked the two of you down.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s not either of yours fault.\u00a0 It was just an accident is all.\u00a0 I should have\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNever let me come along.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cTold me to have some sense. I never should have involved you.\u201d Ellie\u2019s voice was filled with self-recrimination.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam sighed.\u00a0 \u201cYou didn\u2019t strong-arm me.\u201d\u00a0 He forced a smile which Ellie could barely see in the firelight. \u201cWe\u2019re partners after all.\u00a0 Don\u2019t go blaming yourself.\u00a0 Not you, Ellie, or you either, Hoss, and I\u2019ll try not to too.\u00a0 Accidents happen, and like Pa says that old sailor told him: sometimes it\u2019s just best to blame the devil and then give him no never mind.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss and Ellie both murmured agreement even if that agreement was less than whole-hearted.\u00a0 \u201cWhat both of you should do is get some sleep.\u201d\u00a0 Adam did not bother to point out how difficult the next day\u2019s journey would be.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI suppose we should all try.\u201d Ellie stood.\u00a0 \u201cExcuse me a minute.\u201d\u00a0 She lighted a candled and slipped further into the shadows.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGoing back is gonna take a mite longer than getting here did.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n That\u2019s an understatement.\u00a0 <\/em>\u201cIt\u2019s best if we leave at first light.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI can get ya on the horse, but I\u2019m thinking it\u2019d be best maybe if someone rode with ya.\u00a0 Better on ya knee.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMaybe.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBuckwheat would be the best for that, but I don\u2019t know about Miss Ellie handling Beauty.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss twisted the weed he had pluck from the ground.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam tugged at his earlobe.\u00a0 \u201cYou on Beauty handling Windy with Ellie and me on Buckwheat.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss nodded.\u00a0 \u201cThere\u2019s a few places where we can go the longer way a little easier.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere is.\u201d\u00a0 Adam swallowed and studied Hoss in the light from the fire.\u00a0 \u201cAre you comfortable taking the lead?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A slight grin appeared on Hoss\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cDo I need to worry about the fact that you\u2019re thinking of letting me?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo!\u201d\u00a0 Adam shook his head and spoke with assurance.\u00a0 \u201cI know I can trust you to handle it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss\u2019s smile broadened.\u00a0 The silence between the brothers was companionable for the next minute, and then Hoss spoke in a near whisper.\u00a0 \u201cYou don\u2019t think there\u2019s no gold in that mine.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think it\u2019s a bonanza, no, but, well, there may be some.\u00a0 We were going to have some samples assayed.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMiss Ellie don\u2019t want nobody going back in that mine, does she?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNobody is going back in that mine.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The silence between them was less companionable.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s not just she\u2019s wanting to be rich, is it?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam was not truly surprised by Hoss\u2019s observation; his younger brother was quite perceptive when it came to people.\u00a0 \u201cNo, it\u2019s not just that she fancies being rich.\u00a0 She\u2026\u00a0 she\u2019s had a hard time since her father died and left her alone, and with working at Hasson\u2019s\u2026<\/em> well, she really doesn\u2019t have any choice.\u00a0 She has to make a living.\u201d At sixteen she has to make a living. She hasn\u2019t the freedom to choose.\u00a0 Poverty can hold one tighter than any iron chain.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss made no reply, but that may have been because Ellie reappeared at that moment.\u00a0 She and Hoss both settled on their bedrolls and made an attempt to sleep.\u00a0 After a while, Ellie and Adam actually managed to do so for a few hours.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The trio managed the trip back to the Ponderosa though it took until well after the sunset.\u00a0 By the time they rode into the yard, exhaustion had eliminated any worry about Ben Cartwright\u2019s reaction to the explanation the boys would be required to give.\u00a0 In the end, no detailed explanation was even requested because Adam fainted dead away as he slid from Beauty into his father\u2019s arms.\u00a0 Marie took over as Adam was carried to his bed and then sent Ben immediately for a doctor who had recently set up residence in town.\u00a0 After which she saw to it that Hoss, Ellie, and even Little Joe were all asleep before Ben and the doctor returned.\u00a0 Between the effects of a fever and hearty doses of laudanum, Adam spent the next few days in a haze.\u00a0 It was not until the morning of the fourth day after their return that he awoke naturally and with a clear head.\u00a0 His gaze slid toward the open door where he saw a small head peeking around the door jamb.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cCome on in.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The door swung further back, and Little Joe dashed toward the bed coming to an abrupt halt near Adam\u2019s head. \u00a0He stood very still with his hands clasped behind him.\u00a0 \u201cI won\u2019t touch your knee none.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam smiled. \u00a0Obviously you\u2019ve been well and sternly warned. <\/em>\u00a0\u201cI appreciate that.\u00a0 You can touch the rest of me though.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n His brother leaned against the bed reaching out to pet Adam\u2019s face.\u00a0 \u201cYou gottted hurt, but Mama says the doctor says you\u2019re gonna heal just fine.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOf, course I shall.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A reproachful pout settled on Little Joe\u2019s features.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t like when you get hurted.\u00a0 Don\u2019t do it no more.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, sir.\u201d\u00a0 Adam did not suppress his grin.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI serious, Adam.\u00a0 Pa, Mama, and me was worried lots.\u00a0 Hoss too.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 I\u2019ll do better from now on.\u00a0 Okay?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOkay!\u201d\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s forgiveness exploded in a huge smile.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhere\u2019s Pa?\u201d\u00a0 I half thought to see him here.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s working.\u00a0 He stayed in here \u2018til your fever broked\u00a0 yesterday, and the doctor said \u2026\u201d\u00a0 Little Joe\u2019s face grew puzzled.\u00a0 \u201cDoctor said something\u00a0 \u2018bout\u00a0 weaning and that la..dum stuff.\u00a0 Mama said it\u2019s what made ya sleep funny.\u00a0 You was sleeping the same as always this morning, so everybody went back to working, and I was gonna watch ya for them, but I wasn\u2019t supposed to bother you, so I watched from the hall, and now you\u2019re awake.\u00a0 Pa\u2019ll be back for lunch.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd where\u2019s Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s doing chores in the barn.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cExtra chores?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe\u2019s curls bounced in the negative.\u00a0 \u201cJust same as always.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam crooked his finger, and Little Joe leaned even closer.\u00a0 \u201cLittle Joe, could you do something important for me?\u201d\u00a0 This time the boy\u2019s curls tumbled in the affirmative.\u00a0 \u201cCould you go ask Hoss to come see me?\u00a0 And, umm, don\u2019t tell anybody else I\u2019m awake yet.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s important?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe\u2019s chest swelled with pride.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll do it!\u201d\u00a0 The boy was gone before Adam could voice anymore cautions. His departure shook the bed which jostled Adam\u2019s knee.\u00a0 The resulting pain caused Adam to just lie back and wait.\u00a0 Hoss arrived in a few minutes.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cLittle Joe said ya wanted me.\u00a0 Is something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, I just wanted to talk to you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBefore you talked to Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You know me too well, little brother, and we both know Pa. <\/em>\u00a0\u201cWell.\u201d\u00a0 The syllable was slow and extended.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMe and Miss Ellie told him everything the next morning.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cEverything?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cEverything.\u00a0 I told ya I don\u2019t like to lie to Pa, and anyways it seems Miss Ellie don\u2019t hold with leaving things out.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWas he mad at Ellie?\u201d\u00a0 Adam held his breath as he waited for the answer.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNah, not really.\u00a0 I think he likes her.\u00a0 Mama and her talked a lot \u2018fore she went back to town.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam let out half his breath.\u00a0 \u201cPa didn\u2019t blame you, did he?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI think Mama talked to him \u2018bout not being mad and \u2018bout nature giving out consequences.\u00a0 Anyways, he wasn\u2019t best pleased, but I didn\u2019t get no real punishments.\u00a0 Not like I \u2018septeced to.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam released the rest of his breath.\u00a0 \u201cGood.\u201d\u00a0 I\u2019m glad Pa\u2019s not holding anybody to account but me.\u00a0 After all, I am the one responsible.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI kinda told ya this before, but ya wasn\u2019t really clear-headed, and doctor said ya wouldn\u2019t remember much.\u00a0 He said your knee should heal fine though.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI told you both\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe said we was right to splint it.\u00a0 He\u2019s sure ya broke something in ya knee, and it coulda been a lot worse iffen ya tried to walk on it.\u00a0 You ain\u2019t gonna be walking without crutches no time soon, not at all for a while.\u201d\u00a0 Only Hoss\u2019s tone said I told you so<\/em>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam frowned.\u00a0 Then he looked up at Hoss through his lashes.\u00a0 \u201cThank you, brother.\u00a0 For all you did and for getting me home.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss\u2019s smile was shy, and his head dropped.\u00a0 \u201cNot like I could just leave ya in that mine.\u00a0 Pa woulda been really angry at that.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSo Ellie went back to town?\u201d\u00a0 A thought struck Adam.\u00a0 \u201cShe didn\u2019t lose her job, did she?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u00a0 Pa went with her and talked to Mr. Hasson.\u201d\u00a0 Hoss shifted suddenly uneasy.\u00a0 \u201cThen he took the samples to be assayed.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam jerked upward.\u00a0 \u201cWhat samples!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNow, don\u2019t go getting a burr under your saddle.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI repeat; what samples?\u00a0 We didn\u2019t take any samples.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, we didn\u2019t; I did.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhen?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhen you and Miss Ellie was sleeping.\u00a0 Didn\u2019t take that long.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Lord help me! <\/em>\u201cYou went in that mine alone after I said no one was to set foot back in there?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere was a need, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cA need!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd it\u2019s good I did.\u00a0 There\u2019s some gold in the samples.\u00a0 Not high grade nor nothing but some.\u00a0 Pa\u2019s gonna help see to things.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Well, I\u2019ll be damned. Still, he could have\u2026\u00a0 <\/em>A stern glared focused on Hoss\u2019s unwavering eyes.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ll be answering to me; you know that, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss grinned and shrugged.\u00a0 \u201cNo time soon, elder brother.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam started to rise, but Marie walked through the door followed by Little Joe.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Just you wait, brother mine, just you wait.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The door had remained open so that Adam could be heard if he called out, therefore Ben Cartwright simply walked into his son\u2019s room carrying a large tray holding Adam\u2019s lunch.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThey tell me you\u2019ve come to your full senses.\u201d\u00a0 Ben stood next to the bed holding the tray.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I wonder if he meant the double entendre.\u00a0 <\/em>\u201cWell, I have as much sense as I usually do.\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s right eyebrow rose.\u00a0 \u201cI mean, yes, sir.\u00a0 Pa?\u00a0 Umm, I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben studied his eldest son\u2019s face and then glanced at the tray he held.\u00a0 \u201cWould you rather talk before or after you eat?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBefore.\u201d\u00a0 Though I doubt that I\u2019ll have any more appetite then than I do now.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben carried the tray to the dresser and set it down.\u00a0 When he returned to the bedside, he saw Adam\u2019s head was bent and his eyes were focused on his hands.<\/em>\u00a0 He sat down in the chair in which he had spent most of the three previous days and nights.\u00a0 \u201cWhat exactly is it for which you are sorry, son.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Son not Adam Stoddard.<\/em>\u00a0 \u201cEverything.\u201d\u00a0 He raised his eyes to study his father\u2019s face and discovered far less anger than he had expected.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben leaned back, put his right leg across his left, and clasped his right knee in both hands.\u00a0 \u201cActually, there is only one thing that I am still angry about and, well, one that truly disappoints me.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam winced at the word disappoints.<\/em>\u00a0 \u201cThe deceit makes you angry.\u201d Adam knew his father well.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s voice rumbled with reproach.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t actually lie.\u201d\u00a0 Adam\u2019s eyes rolled inwardly at his own comment.\u00a0 Close enough though, and I know it.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAdam Stoddard.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam capitulated.\u00a0 \u201cI know, and really, I am sorry.\u00a0 Sorry for deceiving you, sorry for doing something I knew you wouldn\u2019t allow, and sorry for dragging Hoss into it all.\u00a0 Most of all I\u2019m sorry for not being the son you\u2019ve taught me to be.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben reached out and placed his hand on Adam\u2019s arm.\u00a0 \u201cYou are the son I love and of whom I am so often proud, and who I never expected to be as perfect as the Lord God\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cForgive me, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 I should take my punishment first but please\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI forgave you days ago, Adam.\u00a0 I expect better choices in the future, but you have been forgiven.\u201d\u00a0 Ben smiled.\u00a0 \u201cActually, it wasn\u2019t all that hard to do.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss really isn\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss and I have settled things.\u00a0 Didn\u2019t he tell you?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe said they told you everything and that you didn\u2019t p\u2026punish him.\u00a0 And that was right, he really\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cRight was it?\u201d\u00a0 Ben\u2019s tone indicated a disinclination for one son to judge his dealings with another.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI, I, uh, I didn\u2019t mean\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAdam, your brother made some poor choices, but it has been pointed out to me that if he had not the situation for you and the young lady would have been a great deal more serious, and despite Hoss\u2019s readiness to accept responsibility for the accident we all know something much the same could have happened with only you and Ellie there.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam nodded.\u00a0 \u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBoys seldom allow such considerations to override their desires; a man doesn\u2019t have the luxury of overconfidence in his own invincibility.\u00a0 It is not that many years before you will be a man, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll do better in the future, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben patted the arm beneath his hand and waited.\u00a0 When Adam did not speak, he did. \u201cYou haven\u2019t asked what disappoints me.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s eyes blinked in confusion.\u00a0 \u201cMy behavior\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben\u2019s voice overrode his son\u2019s.\u00a0 \u201cI am deeply disappointed that you felt you could not come to me and that led to you taking unnecessary risks.\u00a0 Risks that could have had even worse outcomes for you, or Hoss, or Ellie.\u00a0 Not just physically but in other ways.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut\u2026\u00a0 Pa, it wasn\u2019t that I didn\u2019t trust you.\u00a0 I\u2026I\u2019ve always trusted you.\u00a0 I just\u2026\u00a0 I knew you wouldn\u2019t let me and, well, it was so important to Ellie and\u2026\u201d\u00a0 Adam blinked, and then looked directly into Ben\u2019s face. \u201cYou wouldn\u2019t have let us go, would you?\u201d\u00a0 I\u2019m not in trouble when I needn\u2019t have been, am I?<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNot you and the young lady alone, no, but a much safer and more prudent exploration could have been arranged.\u201d\u00a0 Ben leaned back and clasped his knee.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou would have believed there was a gold mine?\u00a0 I mean, I know there was a mine, and Hoss said\u2026 not that he ever should have gotten those samples, but he said that they showed some gold.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThey did, and we\u2019ll discuss that after supper, but, first, you didn\u2019t believe there was a mine?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s eyes dropped to study the coverlet.\u00a0 \u201cWell, not, well, not really, not the way Ellie did.\u201d\u00a0 He plucked at the cotton beneath his fingers.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIf you didn\u2019t believe there was a mine, then why the elaborate deception?\u201d\u00a0 Ben desired to be entirely clear about his son\u2019s motivation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cUmm, Ellie\u2026 it was so important to her, and, well, uh, a little, ummm, privacy\u2026\u00a0 but really, I just \u2026 I couldn\u2019t crush\u2026 I couldn\u2019t crush her dreams, even if, well, I didn\u2019t think there was much of a chance.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s blush gave his father all the additional clarification needed.\u00a0 Ben shook his head and considered rethinking how he should handle his eldest son\u2019s transgression.\u00a0 Adam watched a number of emotions flicker across his father\u2019s face.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Now it comes!\u00a0 Well, I deserve it.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben drew in a calming breath and let it out slowly.\u00a0 \u201cHow close are you and the young lady?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam noticed his father\u2019s emphasis on the words young lady<\/em>.\u00a0 He cleared his throat.\u00a0 \u201cI like Ellie, and she likes me.\u00a0 I\u2026 I think she\u2019s special.\u201d\u00a0 Adam took a deeper breath.\u00a0 \u201cWe haven\u2019t\u2026\u00a0 I wouldn\u2019t\u2026\u00a0 She\u2026\u00a0 She is a lady, Pa.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 She\u2019s only let me kiss her a few times.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve no reason to think otherwise, Adam, and I can see that she would be very appealing to a boy your age.\u00a0 Actually, she and Marie seemed to have become friends.\u00a0 Marie feels she is a fine girl.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Are you saying that you and Marie would have no objections to my courting Ellie?<\/em>\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s good.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded in agreement.\u00a0 \u201cAdam, should I be concerned that an appealing female will lead you astray when you are in the East at college?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s eyes widened.\u00a0 You wouldn\u2019t\u2026 that\u2019s too much\u2026 you can\u2019t mean to take my college away.<\/em>\u00a0 \u201cNo, no, Pa.\u00a0 Ellie didn\u2019t lead me astray; really, she didn\u2019t.\u00a0 Please, Pa.\u00a0 I won\u2019t.\u00a0 You don\u2019t have to worry.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben straightened placing both boots on the floor.\u00a0 \u201cIn much too short a time- for me anyway- you will be far beyond the reach of my, ummm, chastisement, so I hope that you can learn from this experience in a more, umm, adult fashion.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You didn\u2019t tan Hoss because it wasn\u2019t fair if you weren\u2019t going to tan me.<\/em>\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll do without complaint whatever you think is needed to balance the books.\u201d\u00a0 Adam came to attention as much as it was possible lying in a bed and awaited the pronouncement of his punishment.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThat is an interesting choice of words, son, as one of the tasks that you shall assume while your knee is healing is the keeping of the books.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Well, that\u2019s really not bad at all.\u00a0 I don\u2019t hate it the way Pa does.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou will be kept useful in any way that is possible during your recovery, but, well, your injury will supply more than enough restrictions for some time, so, there is no needed for me to impose any additional ones.\u00a0 Is there, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u00a0 No need at all.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI shall be taking a much closer interest in your whereabouts until your departure.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam flushed and nodded.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere is only one more thing.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam held his breath.\u00a0 How bad can it be?<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou shall write out an essay explaining the need for considering all possible avenues of action and choosing the most prudent one.\u00a0 I expect you to include all the methods you can think of that a young man might need to use to keep his desire to please a young lady from- shall we say- leading him astray.\u00a0 Are my expectations clear?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhen you have finished, I want you to place it in the Bible you will take east with you and keep it close to hand.\u201d\u00a0 Adam saw the sparkle in his father\u2019s eyes, and the knot in his own chest unwound.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s smile had his father\u2019s hand cupping his face while his finger traced Adam\u2019s dimple.\u00a0 \u201cI expect you to clean that plate now.\u00a0 No, excuses.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe mine?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ll discuss that after supper.\u00a0 For now: a clean plate, your medicine, and a nap.\u00a0 Is that clear?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, Pa.\u201d\u00a0 Ben brushed Adam\u2019s curls back from his forehead pleased that the boy sounded contrite enough for now.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Marie watched Adam swallow the detested laudanum pleased that a contrite Cartwright made a much more biddable patient than normally found among her husband and sons.\u00a0 She took the glass from Adam\u2019s hand and set it and the spoon on the small bedside table ready for the next dose.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cUm, Marie?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, mon fils<\/em>?\u201d\u00a0 When she observed the look on Adam\u2019s face, she sat down in the chair that was positioned beside the bed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cUh, I, umm, I\u2019m sorry for worrying Pa and you and for making more work for you having to see to me and all.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSeeing to you is not a burden and you need not feel sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cStill, I am.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She smiled.\u00a0 \u201cAnd I accept your apology.\u201d\u00a0 She started to rise but stopped her back held rigid.\u00a0 \u201cThere is one thing I would have the truth of though.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe truth?\u00a0 Hoss said he and Ellie told Pa everything, didn\u2019t he tell you?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNaturellement. <\/em>\u00a0It is not happenings that concern me, but something only you can answer.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam shifted uneasily.\u00a0 At times, his stepmother was the person least likely to receive the whole truth from his lips.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAdam, you would not have done this for even as charming a girl as Ellie if she were but a passing acquaintance.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, I guess I wouldn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou did not introduce her to your father or to me.\u00a0 You did not invite her to your home.\u00a0 I cannot believe that you thought your father would judge her harshly or be less than welcoming.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s eyes widened in indignation.\u00a0 \u201cI know Pa\u2019s not like that!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd he has taught all of his sons to be as he.\u201d\u00a0 She learned closer to the bed.\u00a0 \u201cWas it because you thought I might?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, no, not at all.\u201d\u00a0 I know you had to work in New Orleans in a gambling house. I wouldn\u2019t expect\u2026 but some do say that a reformed sinner can be the harshest accuser of all.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n It was clear that the boy spoke the truth.\u00a0 Marie relaxed against the seatback.\u00a0 She turned the wedding band on her finger around and around again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss said you and Ellie talked a good bit, and Pa said you two got along.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOui.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0 Marie paused.\u00a0 Then making a decision, she continued.\u00a0 \u201cShe is an intelligent girl.\u201d\u00a0 It was not the observation Adam expected, but he had to agree it was true.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ve told her of your plans for college?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d\u00a0 Adam wondered just where Marie was taking this conversation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHas she told you she also desires to learn more?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know she\u2019s interested in learning things.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI am not surprised she would think more schooling an impossibility too silly to mention.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cUnless she found a gold mine or something.\u201d\u00a0 It was a sudden thought spoken without intention.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOui.<\/em>\u00a0 But now there is a gold mine.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss said there is some gold.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI do not know the details; you must discuss those with Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa said we\u2019d talk after supper, but you could tell me what you know.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Marie nodded.\u00a0 \u201cThere is enough gold it is thought to be worth an attempt at mining.\u00a0 Ellie told Ben that you and she are partners.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam nodded.\u00a0 \u201cBut if\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cShe was insistent.\u00a0 As neither of you are of age, your father filed on the claim.\u00a0 Either he will arrange for the mining operation or the sale of the mine, whichever seems best.\u00a0 The monies will be placed in accounts in yours and Ellie\u2019s names for your futures.\u00a0 Your father has agreed to advise Ellie as well as you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut there\u2019ll be enough for her to quit working at Hasson\u2019s<\/em>?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIf things go as indicated, yes.\u00a0 She will not live lavishly, but comfort should be possible, and\u2026\u201d\u00a0 Marie drew in a breath.\u00a0 \u201cThe sisters in California have started a school near San Francisco for daughters whose fathers would have them educated properly but do not desire for them to travel thousands of miles away.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOh.\u201d\u00a0 Adam took a moment to consider the implications of Marie\u2019s information.\u00a0 \u201cYou were educated by nuns.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u00a0 The good sisters of several orders are well-known for educating girls and young women.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam tugged his left ear.\u00a0 \u201cYou mentioned it to Ellie?\u201d\u00a0 Marie nodded.\u00a0 \u201cYou think it would be a good place for her?\u00a0 The sisters would be good to her?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThey are women of God.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd Ellie?\u00a0 You told her about the school.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cA little.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDoes she\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “No decisions have been made, and no hasty decisions are needed.\u00a0 There is time for thoughtful consideration.\u201d\u00a0 Marie patted Adam\u2019s hand as it plucked at the cotton of his coverlet.\u00a0 \u201cI am sure she desires to discuss things with you.\u00a0 There is no doubt that soon- when you are up to visitors- she will be first among them.\u00a0 But now you must rest, and I must check on your brothers.\u201d\u00a0 Marie rose, but Adam caught her hand.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2026\u00a0 thank you, thank you for befriending Ellie.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She squeezed his hand.\u00a0 \u201cRest now.\u00a0 It is also certain that Little Joe will insist on helping you in your convalescence, so you shall need your strength.\u201d\u00a0 Marie\u2019s laughter was soft and light.\u00a0 She left.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s body sunk into his pillows and his mind into thoughtful consideration.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n *****<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam was surprised at how easily he had wheedled his way outside even though he was sure he had not really needed his father\u2019s and brother\u2019s assistance to dress and make his way to the porch, but his pa had insisted.\u00a0 At least he had something to look at beside four overly familiar walls and a ceiling.\u00a0 Hoss had taken Little Joe off to parts unknown, and Adam had to admit that a respite from the good intentions of his baby brother was welcome. He sat with an unread book in his lap and watched the comings and goings of several birds. As he relaxed, he heard the buggy\u2019s approach before he watched it pull into the yard.\u00a0 Smiling, he recognized that it contained another occupant in addition to his stepmother.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cEllie!\u201d\u00a0 Adam instinctively started to rise.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cStay in that seat!\u201d\u00a0 Marie\u2019s voice was firm but not sharp.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, m\u2019am.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Marie and Ellie descended and walked over to Adam.\u00a0 \u201cI felt since you were released from your bed you might enjoy a visitor.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou couldn\u2019t have been more right.\u201d\u00a0 Adam answered Marie, but his eyes did not leave Ellie\u2019s face.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSo you\u2019re really going to be fine?\u201d\u00a0 Ellie\u2019s eyes searched every inch of Adam for assurance.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAbsolutely, now that you\u2019re here.\u201d\u00a0 Adam flashed his dimples and then remembered Marie\u2019s presence.\u00a0 \u201cUm, thank you for bringing her, Marie.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt is nothing.\u00a0 We had a very enjoyable ride, but now I must see to several things.\u00a0 Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s off with Hoss somewhere.\u201d\u00a0 Adam saw a certain smile flicker across Marie\u2019s face. As per your instructions, no doubt. So, now I know why I was allowed the porch; it\u2019s an entirely appropriate place for me to receive a female visitor.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAh, then I shall go in search of them.\u201d\u00a0 She motioned Ellie toward an empty chair.\u00a0 \u201cSit down, child.\u00a0 If you will pardon me, I\u2019ll tend to my younger sons and leave Adam in your care for a bit.\u00a0 Then I\u2019m sure Hop Sing has some refreshments we can all enjoy.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOh, of course.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie and Adam watched Marie disappear before either of them spoke.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI was so worried.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m pleased you care enough to worry even if there is no need.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYour knee will heal completely?\u00a0 You won\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe doctor says the only reminder I may be left with is a slight ache when it’s coming on rain.\u00a0 Now, don\u2019t frown; that may even prove a bit useful.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie relaxed and then straightened again.\u00a0 \u201cHoss he, well, he was so, so capable and kind and all\u2026\u201d\u00a0 Her eyes flashed.\u00a0 \u201cBut he went back into that mine.\u00a0 When he said that I was so angry. To think he might have been hurt.\u00a0 Oh, I gave him a piece of my mind; I\u2019ll tell you that. And do you know what he said?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Actually, I probably do.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe just stood there and said, \u2018There was a need.\u2019\u00a0 Just as unrepentant as you please.\u00a0 A need, a need he said, my need, and he could have\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss is fine and stubborn as a mule about some things.\u00a0 You needn\u2019t feel guilty, and you needn\u2019t worry about his comeuppance; his older brother shall see to it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie\u2019s finger went to her mouth, and she bit her nail.\u00a0 \u201cNow, Adam, you wouldn\u2019t do anything\u2026umm, I don\u2019t want him to do anything like that again, but\u2026\u00a0 He\u2019s such a sweet boy.\u00a0 So\u2026 well, he\u2019s a fine and comforting soul.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam laughed softly though he was not sure if he wanted Ellie to laud his younger brother quite so much.\u00a0 \u201cHis comeuppance shall be appropriate; I assure you, and I already thanked him for everything he did.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGood.\u201d\u00a0 Adam felt his chest swell at the confidence and trust he heard in that word.\u00a0 \u201cThey told you about the mine?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, you were right all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Her hand dropped to her lap, and her teeth sunk into her lower lip.\u00a0 \u201cI still can hardly believe\u2026\u00a0 Your pa said that it will take some time for the mine to actually produce a profit unless we just sell it.\u00a0 What do you think, partner?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa and I discussed things.\u00a0 Actually, Pa thinks it would be a sound investment to keep the mine and operate it for a while.\u00a0 So do I.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen that\u2019s what we\u2019ll do.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You\u2019re willing to wait.\u00a0 Just that easy, you\u2019re willing to wait.\u00a0 <\/em>He leaned forward.\u00a0 \u201cPa knows, well, he doesn\u2019t want you to have to wait and keep working, so he has a proposition.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cA proposition?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe will advance the money for getting the mine operating and also advance you the money to, well, to live on or for school or whatever.\u00a0 He would just take a portion of the profits until the money advanced is paid back.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ellie\u2019s fingernail returned to her teeth.\u00a0 \u201cWhat if the mine didn\u2019t cover all the money advanced?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s no guarantee, but Pa\u2019s fairly certain that won\u2019t be a problem.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd if I have the schooling, I can get a better job and pay him back if there\u2019s need.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa\u2019s not worried about that, Ellie, but, yes, you could.\u00a0 Do you want to go to that school?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2026 I\u2019ve always wished I could get more schooling.\u201d\u00a0 Her eyes found his.\u00a0 \u201cYou still want to go to college, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, except\u2026\u00a0 Ellie, I, I don\u2019t want to\u2026 to lose you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She stood and walked to the edge of the porch and stood with her back to Adam.\u00a0 \u201cI care for you, Adam, so much, and, well, to be plain about it, any girl would want a Cartwright for a husband.\u00a0 Not, not just because your family has money, but you\u2019re all such fine, kind people.\u00a0 And you, you\u2019re\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe only currently eligible Cartwright.\u201d\u00a0 Ellie heard the teasing in his tone.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She turned to face him.\u00a0 \u201cI could always just wait for Hoss to get grown.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOr even Little Joe.\u201d\u00a0 He motioned for her to come nearer.\u00a0 When she did, he took her hand.\u00a0 \u201cDo you love me?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI think no more than you love me.\u00a0 And that\u2019s not, well, it\u2019s not like, well, that Romeo and Juliet you told me about in the play.\u00a0 It\u2019s not even, well, like some real married folks I know.\u00a0 It might grow to be, maybe, but it\u2019s not now.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n No, we don\u2019t look at each other the way Pa and Mama did or the way he and Marie do. <\/em>\u201cIf we tried now, we might resent what we had to give up.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd resent each other for it.\u201d\u00a0 She brought her other hand to clasp his.\u00a0 \u201cWe needn\u2019t toss each other away.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u00a0 We\u2019ll still be partners after all.\u201d\u00a0 He studied her face. \u201cThere\u2019s something more though, isn\u2019t there?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She drew in a deep breath.\u00a0 \u201cI just\u2026 well, it\u2019s hard to explain, but with the mine and the money, umm, it\u2019s like for the first time I have a certain\u2026\u201d\u00a0 Her voice trailed off as she searched for the word.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam squeezed her hand and then released it.\u00a0 \u201cFreedom.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes, that\u2019s it.\u00a0 A freedom to choose that I\u2019ve never had before.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd every man and woman wants freedom.\u201d\u00a0 I certainly do.\u00a0 <\/em>\u201cI suppose part of what college means to me is a certain kind of freedom.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam\u2019s smile grew slowly, but his dimples were at their deepest when he spoke.\u00a0 \u201cYes. I think we understand each other very well.\u201d \u00a0And we always will, partner.\u00a0 We always will.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n –The End\u2014<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The cards (words\/phrases) dealt to me were:<\/p>\n Patella <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Summary: A skeptic, a dreamer, and a true believer set out on a journey to find gold.<\/p>\n Written for the 2018 Ponderosa Paddlewheel Poker Tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n Rated:\u00a0\u00a0 PG\u00a0 8,890 words<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":143,"featured_media":17834,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"A Skeptic, A Dreamer, and A True Believer","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,1008,30,3,40],"tags":[158],"class_list":["post-17873","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-prequels","category-romance","category-challenges","tag-pppt","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-30-id","wpcat-3-id","wpcat-40-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/PPPT-pic.png?fit=588%2C325&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17873","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/143"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=17873"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17873\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/17834"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=17873"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=17873"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=17873"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\nMap to a gold mine
\nA Cartwright
\nA day off
\nFreedom<\/p>\n