{"id":1894,"date":"2009-09-09T05:41:51","date_gmt":"2009-09-09T09:41:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1894"},"modified":"2026-03-07T19:07:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-08T00:07:39","slug":"where-theres-a-will","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1894","title":{"rendered":"Where There’s a Will (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Ben decides to update his will, which causes his sons some anxiety<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K (10,855 words)<\/p>\n

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Where There’s a Will<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2018Now remember Hiram, I don\u2019t want anyone to know about this \u2026 especially the boys.\u2019 Ben Cartwright looked at the lawyer meaningfully across the table as he put the papers in front of him down.<\/p>\n

Hiram shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Whatever you say Ben.\u00a0 Although I don\u2019t know why you want to keep this from them.\u00a0 I think they have a right to know.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben picked up the papers again. \u2018I\u2019ll tell them when I think it\u2019s appropriate,\u2019 he said. \u2018Until then I\u2019d prefer to keep it just between us, if you don\u2019t mind.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hiram shrugged again. \u2018You\u2019re the client,\u2019 he said. \u2018Whatever you say Ben.\u2019\u00a0 He took the papers from the other man\u2019s hands. \u2018Now we just need to fill in the details about what goes to each son.\u00a0 Let me know when you\u2019ve got that sorted out.\u2019 He folded the papers carefully. \u2018You\u2019re happy with the wording of it so far?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben nodded as he stood up and picked up his hat. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019ve done a wonderful job Hiram.\u00a0 I thank you for it.\u2019\u00a0 He held out his hand and shook the other man\u2019s warmly. \u2018I\u2019ll see you later.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hiram returned the handshake. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018The papers will be on file until you\u2019re ready to finalise them Ben.\u00a0 You just let me know when you\u2019re ready.\u2019\u00a0 He walked Ben to the door of his office. \u2018You\u2019ve got quite a bit of thinking to do, I\u2019d say.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben nodded as he left the office. He certainly did have quite a bit of thinking to do.\u00a0 Updating his will had been something he\u2019d been meaning to do for a long time and he\u2019d put it off now for far too long.\u00a0 He shuddered against the cold air and pulled the collar of his jacket closer towards his neck as a gust of wind picked up around him and sent a swirl of snowflakes around his feet.\u00a0 Part of the reason was that, like most men, he didn\u2019t like facing his own mortality and the other part of the reason was that he didn\u2019t want to face the mammoth task of how to divide his holdings and possessions between the three boys.<\/p>\n

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Ben wanted to be fair to his three sons but the problem was that with all the land and possessions that he had, the task of working out exactly what was to go to each of the three boys was a mighty one. Far easier to leave it to them to divide between the three of them after he\u2019d gone really, but the perfectionist in Ben Cartwright railed against such a thing.\u00a0 He liked everything to be tidied up in his life and that included after he was gone as well.\u00a0 Besides, he didn\u2019t think it fair to place that burden on the boys and there were certain things that he wanted to ensure that each one of them had after he\u2019d gone.<\/p>\n

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As he mounted up and turned his horse towards home his thoughts were awhirl with the possibilities of what to do and as a consequence he didn\u2019t hear Adam calling to him from across the street.<\/p>\n

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Adam shrugged as his father rode past him quickly and then turned back into the livery stable again. He hadn\u2019t known that he had intended to come into town today and thought that it was mighty unusual that his father hadn\u2019t told him \u2026 Particularly as he had known that Adam himself would be in here picking up the broken axle from the buggy that had been repaired. He wondered what business his father could have had in the Lawyer\u2019s Office and made a mental note to ask him about it that night.<\/p>\n

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Ben stopped at the top of the crest and sat forward in his saddle to get a better look.\u00a0 He sighed with contentment as he surveyed the enticing view before him and closed his eyes momentarily as he thought about the many times he\u2019d come up here to think.\u00a0 The view of the blue lake before him was breathtaking and around its shores the pines seemed to reach to heaven itself. They were mirrored in the still water so that it looked to all intents and purposes as if they grew up and down at the same time.<\/p>\n

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Little Joe always called this his \u2018Happy Place\u2019 because of the times that he\u2019d spent with his older brother Hoss up here, but to the rest of the family it was generally referred to as \u2018Hoss Heaven\u2019.\u00a0 He still remembered the shining eyes of his middle son as he\u2019d come home that day to describe his first sight of the view.\u00a0 The boy\u2019s round blue eyes had been lit up like lanterns as his mouth attempted to match his thoughts in describing to his father his favourite place.\u00a0 Ben of course had already known of the view, but had preferred to let the boy think that he\u2019d stumbled across it by himself.\u00a0 From then on, Hoss could always be found up there whenever he had some serious thinking to do.<\/p>\n

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It was just like Joe, who could always be found down by the lake near his mother\u2019s grave when he needed some time to himself. The spot seemed to calm the boy and give him back the peace that he craved for so desperately at times.\u00a0 It was as if his mother\u2019s presence there was still an influence over the youngster.<\/p>\n

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Ben nodded in satisfaction.\u00a0 It was obvious which part of the land should go to his two younger boys.\u00a0 It was as if they\u2019d innocently picked it out for themselves over the years and it was now a natural thing that only needed their father\u2019s seal of approval.\u00a0 But Adam was a different story. There wasn\u2019t a particular piece of The Ponderosa that was particularly special to Adam \u2026 probably because it all was.\u00a0 If he divided the land in the way he thought he should to accommodate Hoss and Joe, then the vast amount of The Ponderosa would still be left over.<\/p>\n

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There were many men who would have disagreed with his way of thinking.\u00a0 Many would argue that the eldest son should have the main proportion of his father\u2019s land \u2026 but Ben didn\u2019t see it that way at all.\u00a0 It was like saying that he loved one of his sons more than the other and that definitely wasn\u2019t true.\u00a0 It was a problem he needed to think on a while longer.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I saw you in town today,\u2019 said Adam casually as they were all seated at the supper table that night. \u2018I didn\u2019t know that you were going in.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben looked startled. \u2018Didn\u2019t I tell you?\u2019 he said evasively. \u2018I thought I had.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018No,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018We could have gone in together if I\u2019d known.\u2019\u00a0 He waited for his father to speak, but the man was silent. \u2018I picked up the broken axle,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Good,\u2019 said Ben and then turned to Hoss. \u2018Did you get those strays rounded up Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes sir,\u2019 said Hoss between mouthfuls. \u2018Sure did.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam gave his father an appraising stare. \u2018Any particular reason you were in town?\u2019 he asked finally.<\/p>\n

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\u2018No,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I just had a few things to pick up at the Mercantile.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I could have done that for you,\u2019 persisted Adam.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I suppose you could have,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018But I preferred to do it myself. Thank you anyway son.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to Joe who was sighing dramatically beside him as he pushed the food around his plate. \u2018We all know about it Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s no need to have it affect your meal.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe turned his puppy dog eyes towards his father and gave him a weak smile. \u2018I can\u2019t help it Pa,\u2019 he said dramatically. \u2018Breaking up with Bertha kinda makes me sad, ya know?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben tried not to smile at the expression on his youngest son\u2019s face. \u2018I do know son,\u2019 he said gently.\u00a0 \u2018But life goes on.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe sighed again dramatically and Hoss grinned at Adam across the table as Adam winked at his brother.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s love life usually kept everyone on their toes.\u00a0 It seemed that nearly every week the youngster had a new girl or was breaking up with one and each relationship seemed to be more dramatic than the one before it.\u00a0 They all knew that the boy would have another girl dangling on his arm within the week and they steeled themselves to cope with his latest broken heart in the meantime.<\/p>\n

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Ben stood up and walked away from the table and over to his desk where he began to rummage through the various maps that were rolled up in a tin in the corner of the study. \u2018Looking for anything in particular?\u2019 asked Adam as he followed his father.<\/p>\n

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Ben looked up as he unrolled a map. \u2018Not really,\u2019 he said vaguely. \u2018I just thought I\u2019d check out some of those fence lines.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam nodded and drifted over to the fireplace where he\u2019d left the latest book he was reading. \u2018Do you mind?\u2019 he asked sarcastically as he lifted Joe\u2019s feet off it where they were resting on the coffee table.<\/p>\n

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Joe looked up from where he perched on the corner of the table and sighed dramatically again. \u2018Sorry Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018I guess I ain\u2019t thinking straight what with breaking up with Bertha and all.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam raised an eyebrow at his intense younger brother\u2019s look. \u2018Hmph!\u2019 he said and plonked himself down in his favourite chair.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Come on Joe,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018It\u2019s your turn.\u2019\u00a0 He tapped on the table impatiently with a checker piece to get his younger brother\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n

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Joe looked back at Hoss. \u2018Sorry Hoss,\u2019 he said mournfully. \u2018I guess I\u2019m just \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I know,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Thinking bout Bertha.\u00a0 Well think about the game for a change, will ya?\u2019\u00a0 He tapped the table again impatiently while Joe gave another dramatic sigh and studied the board.<\/p>\n

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Ben smiled at the interchange between his sons.\u00a0 It seemed that they were in for a long week until Joseph could find himself another girl.\u00a0 He went back to studying the problem in front of him again as he traced a line on the map with his finger from the lake to the house. The house!\u00a0 It hadn\u2019t occurred to him before \u2026 but who was to have the house? Which of his three sons should he leave this section of land to with the house on it?\u00a0 He frowned as he pondered the problem.<\/p>\n

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It stood to reason that each of his sons would one day have families of their own \u2026 although there were times when Ben felt as if they really needed serious pushing in that particular direction \u2026 and it wasn\u2019t feasible that all of them would be under this roof if that were the case. Which of them would be most in need of living here?\u00a0 For a moment he considered Adam \u2026 after all the young man had helped his father design it and had been the one to work by his side every step of the way when it was built.\u00a0 Perhaps it should go to Adam?<\/p>\n

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Then there was Hoss.\u00a0 Hoss had always loved this house, just as he did the land around it.\u00a0 Ben looked back at the map again.\u00a0 The house was situated within the area of Hoss Heaven and it made sense to keep it all as one.\u00a0 In practical terms the house and the land surrounding it should really go to Hoss.<\/p>\n

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But what about Joseph?\u00a0 His youngest son had been born in this house and his mother had been such a large part of designing and furnishing it.\u00a0 How could he tell Joseph that it wasn\u2019t to be his some day?\u00a0 He knew that the boy saw the house as part of his mother in a way and Ben certainly couldn\u2019t take that away from him. He put his head in his hands as he continued to stare at the map in front of him.\u00a0 What was he to do?<\/p>\n

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\u2018Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben looked up. \u2018Yes son?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Are you all right?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

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Ben sighed wearily. \u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just a little tired.\u2019\u00a0 His head hurt from the problem he\u2019d been trying to sort out and he was suddenly weary of trying to think it through. He stood up. \u2018I think I might go on up to bed and have an early night. Night boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

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His three sons watched in surprise as their father climbed the stairs slowly. \u2018That ain\u2019t like Pa to go to bed so early,\u2019 said Hoss with a puzzled expression on his face. \u2018I hope he\u2019s OK.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You think Pa\u2019s sick?\u2019 asked Little Joe suddenly.\u00a0 The very thought of his father being sick always filled him with dread and he found it very hard to cope with it.\u00a0 He always had since his mother had died years ago.\u00a0 Something in him dreaded being left alone again and he clung to his father fiercely. \u2018What\u2019s wrong with him?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Nothing\u2019s wrong with him,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018No one said that he was sick.\u00a0 He\u2019s probably just tired is all.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well then how come he\u2019s tired?\u2019 persisted Joe. \u2018Pa ain\u2019t usually tired.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Guess he\u2019s got a right to be tired if he wants,\u2019 said Hoss evenly. \u2018I reckon a fellar his age should be now and then.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe\u2019s eyes narrowed at the remark. \u2018What\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Pa ain\u2019t that old!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018He ain\u2019t that young either,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Hurry up Joe, it\u2019s your turn.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam sat back in his chair and thought about things.\u00a0 Why had his father been so evasive about why he had been in town?\u00a0 He\u2019d said nothing about visiting Hiram Wood, and yet Adam had distinctly seen him coming out of the man\u2019s office.\u00a0 He hoped that there was nothing wrong.<\/p>\n

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Ben walked out of the church and surveyed the small front churchyard.\u00a0 He smiled at the sight of his youngest son leaning against the fence and watching Bertha Phillips as she chatted with Mitch Devlin.\u00a0 Joe had such a sad look on his face and Ben hoped that the boy would find another girl to mend his broken heart quickly.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t think he could stand it for much longer.\u00a0 He waved to Doctor Paul Martin and walked down the steps to greet the man. \u2018Paul,\u2019 he said. \u2018Have you got time to talk?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Of course,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018Over here.\u2019\u00a0 He beckoned Ben over to towards the side fence where Reverend Allen was also standing. \u2018We don\u2019t really have much time left before Roy\u2019s birthday and if we\u2019re going to make it a special party we really should finalise the details now.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018It\u2019s very nice of you to offer The Ponderosa for the party Ben,\u2019 said Reverend Allen. \u2018It will make it very special for Roy.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018It\u2019s my pleasure,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018After all, Roy is one of my closest friends.\u00a0 Have you got Clem organised to take over for the night?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018Barring a bank robbery, Roy should be free to come out to the ranch when you send for him.\u00a0 What excuse are you going to use to get him there?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben shook his head. \u2018I haven\u2019t decided yet,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018Something will come to me though.\u2019 He glanced at Hoss as his son approached. \u2018What is it Hoss?\u2019 he said impatiently.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Just wondering if you\u2019re ready to go Pa,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Morning Doc.\u00a0 Morning Reverend.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018In a minute,\u2019 replied Ben. He looked at his son meaningfully and Hoss took the hint and walked a short distance away while he waited.<\/p>\n

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\u2018You don\u2019t want the boys to know?\u2019 asked Paul.<\/p>\n

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Ben shook his head. \u2018No.\u00a0 Especially Joseph.\u00a0 You know how he is about this sort of thing.\u2019\u00a0 The doctor and the Reverend nodded their heads.\u00a0 Joe Cartwright was not known for his ability to keep secrets. \u2018It\u2019s best if they find out later,\u2019 continued Ben. \u2018It\u2019ll make it easier for everyone.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss frowned as he heard his father\u2019s words.\u00a0 It\u2019d make what easier?\u2019 he wondered. And what was it that Pa didn\u2019t want them to know about?\u00a0 He edged closer to listen without appearing to.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Two weeks isn\u2019t long,\u2019 said Reverend Allen. \u2018Not with all the details to work out from my end.\u2019\u00a0 He\u2019d been given the job of organising the entertainment and it was proving quite a challenge for him. \u2018There\u2019s the music to do of course.\u00a0 It\u2019s very important to have music.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018It always adds to the atmosphere at these sort of things.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Have you done the list of who to invite?\u2019 asked Paul. \u2018I\u2019ll see to it that they all know.\u2019\u00a0 He held out his hand as Ben handed him a piece of paper with the guest list on it. \u2018Are you sure about this Ben?\u2019 he asked. \u2018It seems an awful lot to leave to you.\u2019<\/p>\n

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I can manage,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018\u2019Just tell everyone to keep it a secret and it should be fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss frowned as he wondered what his father was trying to keep secret. He drifted over to Adam who was leaning against the buggy while he waited for his father and brothers. \u2018What\u2019s the matter with you?\u2019 asked Adam as he noticed the expression on Hoss\u2019 face.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Nuthin,\u2019 muttered Hoss. \u2018Well \u2026 I done heard Pa talking to Doc Martin and Reverend Allen \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018You shouldn\u2019t have been eavesdropping,\u2019 said Adam sternly. \u2018You know what Pa would say about that if he knew.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well I\u2019m glad that I did,\u2019 said Hoss defensively. \u2018Seems like our Pa is keeping a secret from us.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Adam straightened up. \u2018What do you mean?\u2019 he asked. \u2018What sort of secret?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss shrugged. \u2018I don\u2019t rightly know,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018He was saying something bout only having two weeks and it sounded like they was organising something.\u00a0 Reverend Allen was asking bout music and Doc Martin was organising a list of folks.\u00a0 Pa said that we wasn\u2019t to know bout it.\u2019\u00a0 His eyes lit up. \u2018Hey!\u00a0 I wonder iffen it\u2019s gonna be a party?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I doubt it,\u2019 said Adam thoughtfully. \u2018None of us has a birthday coming up and there\u2019s no special holiday at this time of year.\u00a0 Besides, Pa would tell us if it was a party.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I reckon so,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Well what do ya reckon it is Adam? Pa didn\u2019t want me to hear no how and he specially said that Joe wasn\u2019t to know.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018He did?\u2019\u00a0 Adam stroked his chin thoughtfully. \u2018I wonder \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Ya wonder what?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam leant close to his brother. \u2018Well the other day I saw Pa in town coming out of Hiram Woods\u2019 office,\u2019 he said. \u2018When I asked him why he was in town he said that he needed to go to the Mercantile.\u00a0 He obviously didn\u2019t want to let on that he\u2019d been to see Hiram.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss scrunched up his nose. \u2018What\u2019s that got to do with this?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m not sure if it has anything to do with it,\u2019 said Adam thoughtfully. \u2018But I aim to find out if it does.\u2019\u00a0 He smiled over Hoss\u2019 shoulder as their father approached. \u2018Hi Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Where is your brother?\u2019 asked Ben as he got up into the buggy.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Still mooning over Bertha Phillips,\u2019 said Adam pleasantly.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well call him over,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018We need to get home.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam motioned to Hoss to follow him as he made his way towards Joe who was still leaning against the fence watching Bertha.\u00a0 \u2018Don\u2019t tell Joe about this,\u2019 he whispered. \u2018Not until we know for sure that something is going on.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018Sure thing Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018I won\u2019t say a word.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam!\u2019 Hiram Wood held out his hand to the eldest Cartwright son. \u2018Nice to see you. Come on in.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I can\u2019t stay long,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I hope I\u2019m not disturbing your work.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not at all,\u2019 Hiram assured him. \u2018What can I do for you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well \u2026 I was just wondering if I could ask you a question,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course,\u2019 replied Hiram. \u2018What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s about my father,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I was wondering why he came into town the other day to see you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hiram looked concerned. \u2018I\u2019m sorry Adam, but I can\u2019t discuss that with you,\u2019 he said immediately. \u2018Client confidentiality you know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes of course,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018But he\u2019s my father. We don\u2019t have any secrets.\u2019\u00a0 He smiled politely at the man hoping that he\u2019d tell him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sorry Adam,\u2019 Hiram said, gesturing with his hands. \u2018But your father has business with me that he wants to keep to himself for now. You understand.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned. \u2018Yes of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018Well thank you anyway Hiram.\u2019\u00a0 He tipped his hat to the man and walked out of the office and crossed the street to where Hoss was waiting for him. \u2018No luck,\u2019 he said. \u2018All I found out is that Pa has business with him that he doesn\u2019t want us to know about.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I still don\u2019t see what this has to do with the conversation I heard yesterday,\u2019 said Hoss.\u00a0 \u2018Why don\u2019t we just drop it Adam?\u00a0 I reckon that Pa \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He stopped and his eyes widened as he looked over his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Hey!\u00a0 Ain\u2019t that Pa coming out of the bank?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned sharply. \u2018Sure is,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now why would he be in town again?\u00a0 He never said that he was coming in.\u2019 They watched as Ben walked along the sidewalk and entered Hiram\u2019s Office again. \u2018Well I\u2019ve had enough of this!\u2019 declared Adam. \u2018Come on Hoss.\u00a0 We\u2019re going to find out what this is all about.\u2019 He led his brother across the street and into the bank from which their father had just emerged. \u2018Morning Clive,\u2019 he said to the teller behind the counter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam,\u2019 said the man with a grin. \u2018Hoss.\u00a0 You\u2019ve just missed your father.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Did we?\u2019 said Adam coolly. \u2018We were supposed to meet him here to help him with his business.\u00a0 Did he finish without us?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure did,\u2019 said Clive. \u2018Took a bit of time to get all the figures together for him, but I finally got it done.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks for that Clive,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I\u2019m sure that Pa appreciated you getting all \u2026 exactly which accounts did you end up tallying for him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018All of em,\u2019 said Clive. \u2018Didn\u2019t he tell you that he wanted to know the full extent of all his accounts?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well yes,\u2019 said Adam, nudging Hoss. \u2018I just wondered if he was including the accounts from San Francisco or not, that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yep,\u2019 said Clive. \u2018He reckoned that he wasn\u2019t going to get a true picture of what he\u2019s worth in total without em.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course not,\u2019 said Adam, his eyes narrowing. \u2018And he does need them for \u2026 for Hiram,\u2019 he said, taking a chance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clive nodded. \u2018Well you can\u2019t make out a Will without knowing what you\u2019re worth, can you?\u2019 he said. \u2018Sorry boys, but I\u2019ve got work to do.\u00a0 Talk to you later.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure.\u00a0 Thanks Clive,\u2019 said Adam as he pulled Hoss out of the Bank behind him. The two brothers stood on the sidewalk outside the bank and were silent for a few minutes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally, Hoss broke the silence. \u2018I just don\u2019t understand it Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018Why would Pa suddenly be making a Will? He ain\u2019t ever bothered with that sort of thing before.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged. \u2018It makes sense,\u2019 he said. \u2018Everyone should have a Will and Pa does have a lot of assets you know.\u00a0 It stands to reason that he\u2019d want to safeguard them.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 agreed Hoss. \u2018But why not tell us about it? Something is wrong Adam. I can feel it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss don\u2019t be stupid,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018There\u2019s nothing wrong.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then why don\u2019t he tell us bout it?\u2019 persisted Hoss. \u2018Why all this secrecy bout going to Hiram and \u2026\u2019 His eyes widened as a thought occurred to him. \u2018You don\u2019t reckon he\u2019s sick, do ya Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why on earth would you say that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well \u2026.\u2019 Hoss thought for a moment. \u2018I mean \u2026. He\u2019s been tired lately and maybe he\u2019s feeling old.\u00a0 That\u2019d be why he suddenly thinks that it\u2019s time to make a Will.\u2019\u00a0 His eyes widened suddenly and he clutched Adam\u2019s arm. \u2018Oh Lordy!\u2019 he exclaimed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam!\u2019 Hoss looked at his brother fearfully. \u2018I reckon that\u2019s what the doctor and the Reverend was talking about!\u00a0 They said that there\u2019s only two weeks to get things organised.\u00a0 They was talking bout music and stuff. Adam!\u00a0 They\u2019re planning Pa\u2019s funeral!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam snorted. \u2018Hoss, for heaven\u2019s sake \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No Adam!\u00a0 I reckon it\u2019s true!\u2019 Hoss went pale at the very thought of it. \u2018That\u2019s why they didn\u2019t want me to hear.\u00a0 They said to specially not tell Joe and all.\u00a0 You know how he is about Pa \u2026they didn\u2019t want to upset him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss we don\u2019t know for sure that there\u2019s anything wrong with Pa,\u2019 said Adam, trying to remain calm in spite of his brother\u2019s protests.\u00a0 \u2018I think we should just watch Pa carefully and see about this before we jump to any conclusions, don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Only \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Only what?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I can\u2019t stand the idea of Pa leaving us Adam,\u2019 said Hoss, looking as if he were about to burst into tears. \u2018What will it do to Joe when he finds out?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now don\u2019t you go telling Joe any of your crazy notions,\u2019 warned Adam. \u2018We\u2019ll just sit tight and watch Pa for a while.\u00a0 That\u2019s best don\u2019t you think Hoss?\u2019\u00a0 He patted his brother on the arm as they watched their father come out of the lawyer\u2019s office again and head off down the street.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stretched wearily in front of the fireplace to ease the crick in his back. He felt quite done in tonight after all the hard work today.\u00a0 He really hadn\u2019t realised just how much work there was in organising this party for Roy, all the more because he had to keep it secret from the boys.\u00a0 He\u2019d be glad when he\u2019d be able to tell them about it. The way Little Joe had a habit of letting things slip though, he thought he should wait until the actual day of the party before letting them in on the secret.\u00a0 That way he\u2019d be assured that Roy wouldn\u2019t find out about it. Between the party and worry bout his Will, it seemed that things were getting on top of him lately.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tired Pa?\u2019 asked Adam, casting a worried look in his father\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I am,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You sure are tired a lot lately Pa,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I suppose I am,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018I suppose I\u2019m just getting old boys.\u2019\u00a0 He gave a short laugh and was surprised that no one laughed with him.\u00a0 Instead his two older sons merely stared at him. \u2018What\u2019s wrong with you two tonight?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing,\u2019 replied Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shrugged and walked over to his study.\u00a0 He put his hands in his pockets as he studied the map of The Ponderosa on the wall over his desk. He still hadn\u2019t worked out exactly how to divide up this land of his and be fair to all the boys in the process and it continued to prey on his mind.\u00a0 He shook his head and turned to sit at his desk, fingering the three gold frames casually as he leant back in his chair.\u00a0 The images of his three wives stared back at him and looked from them over to his three sons as they sat by the fireplace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How to be fair to all his boys?\u00a0 That was the issue which Ben wrestled with.\u00a0 He\u2019d have to think on it some more.\u00a0 He fingered the gold pocket watch in his pocket and drew it out to put on the desk and look at it.\u00a0 It had been given to him by his father and he\u2019d always intended it to go to Adam as his eldest son.\u00a0 A thought suddenly struck him and he put the watch back into his pocket and stood up. \u2018I\u2019m going upstairs boys,\u2019 he said. \u2018I have a few things to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What things?\u2019 asked Adam, immediately on the alert.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just some things,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018\u2019I\u2019ll see you in the morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at Hoss meaningfully as their father left the room. \u2018Hmm,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing.\u00a0 I just said hmm<\/em>,\u2019 replied his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You never say hmm<\/em> unless you\u2019re up to something,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018What\u2019s going on?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing younger brother,\u2019 said Hoss.\u00a0 \u2018Maybe we should go and check this out Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Check what out?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing,\u2019 said Adam as he stood up. \u2018Finish reading your book.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam motioned to Hoss to follow him as Joe went back to reading his dime novel and muttering under his breath. \u2018No one ever tells me nuthin,\u2019 he said and sighed as he sank down into his chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben opened the door to the attic and frowned at the dusty smell as he did so.\u00a0 He really should make it a priority to clean this place out now and then, he thought.\u00a0 He lit the lantern in his hand and warily walked across the floor, avoiding the piles of old furniture and toys that were in his way.\u00a0 Eventually, his eyes lit up as he spied what he was looking for and he knelt down next to an old trunk in the corner.\u00a0 He set the lantern down next to him and opened the trunk, fingering the shawl that lay on top of it gently.\u00a0 It had belonged to Marie and the mere touch of it brought back memories of her instantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben began to rummage through the contents of the trunk slowly, picking up each item and smiling as each one brought back a sweet memory of times long gone.\u00a0 He sneezed a couple of times as the long-undisturbed dust settled around his nose and he took out his handkerchief to wipe it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly he heard a noise behind him and he turned sharply to see Adam and Hoss standing in the doorway looking at him with strange expressions on their faces. \u2018Hello boys,\u2019 he said, sneezing again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018What are ya doing in here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just looking through some old things,\u2019 said his father. \u2018Come in and join me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave Hoss a strange look as they entered the room. Ben sneezed again and began to cough. \u2018Are you all right Pa?\u2019 asked Adam in a worried tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course I\u2019m all right,\u2019 said his father as he held up a book. \u2018This brings back memories.\u00a0 It belonged to your mother Adam.\u00a0 I was thinking that you should have it after I\u2019m gone.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Where are you going?\u2019 asked an anxious voice in the doorway and they all turned to see Little Joe standing there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What are you doing up here?\u2019 asked Adam crossly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well no one ever tells me nothing, so I thought I\u2019d just find out for myself what\u2019s going on,\u2019 said his younger brother indignantly. \u2018Where are you going Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not going anywhere son,\u2019 said his father as he began to cough again. \u2018I\u2019m just going through some old things here and thinking about which of you boys should have them, that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe came over and sat down next to his father. \u2018What\u2019s that?\u2019 he asked as he took out a picture and rubbed the dust off it, causing his father to have a coughing fit.\u00a0 He leant across and patted the man on the back. \u2018You OK Pa?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m fine,\u2019 said Ben as he took the picture from the youngster\u2019s hands. \u2018Now that\u2019s an interesting picture. There\u2019s a story that goes with it \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss cast worried looks at each other as their father related his tale, interspersed with coughing fits. \u2018You believe me now?\u2019 whispered Hoss as he leant close to his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said in a low voice. \u2018He\u2019s organizing things while he\u2019s still around to do it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think it\u2019s about time I went through all of this and divided it up for you boys,\u2019 said Ben as he finished his story. \u2018Why don\u2019t you go through it all and decide which items you\u2019d like?\u00a0 There\u2019s no point it all sitting up here if you\u2019d like to have some of it now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh boy!\u2019 said Joe eagerly. \u2018I\u2019ll have some of them things there.\u2019\u00a0 He grabbed a few items out of the trunk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018They\u2019re already yours Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018Don\u2019t you remember playing with those when you were younger?\u2019 Joe looked at the items in his hands and frowned. \u2018Not really,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Remember this?\u2019\u00a0 Ben held up a worn-out knitted toy horse with a smile. \u2018Your mother made this for you when you were a baby and you would never sleep without it for years.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah!\u2019 said Joe, taking it with a grin. \u2018I always wondered where that old thing got to.\u2019\u00a0 He stroked the horse\u2019s mane gently. \u2018I think I\u2019ll take it down to my room \u2026 just for remembering,\u2019 he added quickly, stealing a glance at his brothers to see if they were about to make fun of him.\u00a0 He frowned as he noticed that they weren\u2019t even looking at him, but were whispering in the corner. \u2018What are you two up to?\u2019 he asked suspiciously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothin little brother,\u2019 said Hoss.\u00a0 He gave his father a mournful look and then shook his head at Adam.\u00a0 Joe shrugged and went back to digging things out of the trunk again while his father sat next to him and coughed from the dust.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave Margaret Peterson one of his most charming smiles for which he was famous and leant closer to her as she stood beside the Mercantile. \u2018So,\u2019 he said. \u2018Will I see you at the Church picnic next weekend?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Margaret tried to look coy. \u2018What about Bertha?\u2019 she asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What about her?\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I broke up with her last week.\u00a0 I told her it was over and done with.\u00a0 She ain\u2019t really my type.\u2019\u00a0 He leant closer to the girl. \u2018Not like some other people,\u2019 he added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I see.\u00a0 Well then I suppose it would be all right,\u2019 said Margaret with a smile. She looked over her shoulder to see her mother was emerging from the Mercantile. \u2018I have to go now Joe,\u2019 she said. \u2018I\u2019ll see you another time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sure thing,\u2019 replied Joe, tipping his hat to her.\u00a0 He turned and walked along the sidewalk, thinking about how great life was and how Margaret Adams was precisely the girl he\u2019d been waiting to meet for a long time.\u00a0 As he approached the doctor\u2019s office where his father had told him to meet him, he stopped and sat down on a bench outside and watched the people passing as he waited and was just beginning to think that his father would never come out when he heard the man\u2019s voice as he opened the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you Paul,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019m very grateful to you for all that you\u2019ve done.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t mention it Ben,\u2019 replied the doctor from inside the office. \u2018I\u2019m just sorry I can\u2019t do more for you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Remember \u2026 don\u2019t mention it to the boys,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I want to be the one to tell them myself.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well you\u2019d better hurry up,\u2019 replied Paul. \u2018You\u2019ve only got a week left.\u00a0 They\u2019ll have to know soon Ben.\u00a0 They\u2019ll need time to prepare themselves as well.\u2019\u00a0 Joe pricked up his ears and listened to the conversation eagerly. What was it that his father didn\u2019t want them to know?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018All in good time though Paul.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to leave the office and saw Joe sitting there waiting for him. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019re on time for once.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned at his father. \u2018What don\u2019t you want us to know about Pa?\u2019 he blurted out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You was telling the doctor that you didn\u2019t want us to know about something.\u00a0 What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned at his son. \u2018None of your business young man,\u2019 he said sternly. \u2018And I\u2019ll have no more of this eavesdropping if you don\u2019t mind.\u2019\u00a0 He turned as Paul came hurrying out behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ben!\u2019 called the doctor. \u2018Wait!\u2019\u00a0 He thrust a small package into Ben\u2019s hand. \u2018I forgot to give you this.\u2019 He winked at his friend. \u2018It should ease some of the pain<\/em> during the next week. I thought you might need it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben opened the small bag and grinned as he saw a small bottle of whiskey. \u2018Thank you Paul,\u2019 he said with a chuckle. \u2018I\u2019m sure it\u2019ll help get me through it. Come on Joseph.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Help you get through what Pa?\u2019 asked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I told you before \u2026 none of your business,\u2019 said his father. \u2018Now move please.\u00a0 We\u2019re going to be late for supper if we don\u2019t get going now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave his father a suspicious look and then followed him over to the buckboard, muttering to himself. \u2018No one in this family tells me nothing!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m telling the truth Adam!\u2019 Joe declared. \u2018Pa said that he didn\u2019t want us to know about it and then Doc Martin gave him something and said it was for the pain. I reckon he\u2019s sick and he ain\u2019t telling us!\u2019\u00a0 He gave both his brothers an anxious look that betrayed his intense feelings.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now listen Joe,\u2019 said Adam soothingly. \u2018It doesn\u2019t necessarily mean that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I reckon we should tell him Adam,\u2019 interrupted Hoss. \u2018He\u2019s got a right to know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Joe indignantly. \u2018I got a right to know! \u2026 Know what?\u2019 he added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Know bout Pa being sick and all,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe instantly looked more concerned. \u2018I knew it!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018I knew he was sick!\u00a0 What\u2019s wrong with him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put a hand on his younger brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Keep your voice down,\u2019 he said sternly. \u2018We don\u2019t want Pa to know that we\u2019ve found out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Found out what?\u00a0 What\u2019s wrong with him?\u00a0 How come no one told me?\u2019 Joe said in a softer voice. \u2018Tell me Adam!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed and out both his hands on Joe\u2019s shoulders, looking deep into his eyes. \u2018It seems that Pa isn\u2019t well,\u2019 he said slowly. \u2018Hoss and I discovered it a few days ago.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked crushed. \u2018Why hasn\u2019t he told us?\u2019 he asked miserably.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018He don\u2019t want to worry us Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018He thinks that it\u2019s best this way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why?\u2019 asked Joe, the panic now beginning to show in his face. \u2018What\u2019s best?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked at Adam who nodded slightly. \u2018Well shortshanks,\u2019 began Hoss. \u2018Ya see \u2026\u2019 His voice trailed away and he looked away from his younger brother, his bottom lip beginning to tremble as his emotions took over in spite of his resolve not to allow them to.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed again. \u2018Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Look at me. Now listen to me carefully.\u00a0 Pa has made out his Will.\u00a0 He went to see Hiram Wood the other day to get it done.\u00a0 Paul Martin is treating him for some sort of illness and it would seem that \u2026\u2019 He hesitated. \u2018It would seem that he hasn\u2019t got long to go.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe jerked away from his brother\u2019s touch. \u2018What?\u2019 he shouted. \u2018You ain\u2019t serious Adam! No!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Adam firmly and steadily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How do you know?\u2019\u00a0 Tears began to spring into Joe\u2019s eyes as he looked at his brother pleadingly. \u2018You can\u2019t know for sure!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at Hoss before replying. \u2018Hoss overheard Pa planning his \u2026 his funeral with Reverend Allen,\u2019 he said as gently as he could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019\u00a0 Joe looked as if he might collapse and Adam gripped his shoulders even more firmly. \u2018No!\u2019 the youngster cried again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe try to calm down,\u2019 said Adam soothingly. \u2018I know this is a shock for you buddy, but you\u2019ve got to stay calm for Pa\u2019s sake.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah shortshanks,\u2019 said Hoss.\u00a0 Pa needs us to be strong for him right now.\u00a0 OK buddy?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded miserably, dropping his head and wiping away the tears that were beginning to fall. \u2018Pa will tell us when he\u2019s ready to,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Until then we have to respect his wishes and wait.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his brothers, wiping away his tears before replying. \u2018But \u2026 but Adam \u2026 I heard Doc Martin tell him that there was only a week to go!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his arm around his brother. \u2018I know buddy,\u2019 he said gently. \u2018I know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s why he\u2019s been giving us all them things from up in the attic, ain\u2019t it?\u2019 asked Joe miserably.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Now don\u2019t you worry shortshanks. Adam and me will always be here for ya.\u00a0 We\u2019ll get through this together somehow.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The important thing is not to let on to Pa that we know,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Obviously he\u2019ll only worry more if he thinks that we do.\u2019\u00a0 He lifted Joe\u2019s face up. \u2018Joe?\u2019 he said. \u2018You have to promise not to tell him that we know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I promise,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Only \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Only what?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe put his face in his hands and began to sob. \u2018Only it just ain\u2019t fair Adam! Pa \u2026 well it just ain\u2019t fair!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I know buddy,\u2019 said Adam, his despair showing on his face as well. \u2018I know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Can I get you anything Pa?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018You want some more coffee or \u2026 something else?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No thank you Joseph,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019m fine.\u2019\u00a0 He leant back in his chair and rubbed his stomach softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You got a sore stomach Pa?\u2019 asked Hoss anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just a bit,\u2019 said Ben, thinking that he really shouldn\u2019t have eaten that second helping of dessert. \u2018It\u2019ll settle down soon.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Can I get you something for it?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No thank you son,\u2019 said Ben thinking how considerate his boys were being tonight. He reached over to get his pipe, but Joe grabbed it first and handed it to him with a sad and anxious smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Here you go Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018You want me to light it for you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you son, but I think I can manage,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Do you think you should be smoking?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave his eldest son a puzzled look. \u2018Well I don\u2019t see why not,\u2019 he said testily. \u2018I do every night, don\u2019t I?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I suppose so,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Just asking is all.\u2019 He gave Hoss and Joe a helpless look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You want a blanket Pa?\u2019 asked Joe.\u00a0 \u2018Are you feeling cold?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I told you I\u2019m fine,\u2019 said Ben, beginning to sound a little cross. \u2018Have you boys got nothing to do tonight?\u2019 All three of them shook their heads as they stared at him. \u2018Well find something to do and stop annoying me,\u2019 their father said. \u2018I\u2019m fine sitting here smoking as I said before. If you\u2019ve got nothing to do then why don\u2019t you go up to the attic and sort through some of those things we looked at the other night? They need to be sorted out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All three of them hesitated and looked at each other. \u2018We\u2019d rather not Pa,\u2019 said Adam finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Suit yourselves then,\u2019 replied his father as he began to smoke. \u2018Only you don\u2019t want to leave it until it\u2019s too late.\u2019 He considered a lot of the old toys and furniture up there that could well do with throwing out and considered doing so unless the boys claimed them for their own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Too late?\u2019 squeaked Joe. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he flung his arms around his father and hugged him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked startled at the boy\u2019s reaction, but hugged him back nevertheless. \u2018What\u2019s brought this on?\u2019 he asked over the top of his son\u2019s curly head.\u00a0 He looked at Adam and Hoss who both shrugged their shoulders and said nothing. \u2018Well Joseph, if it\u2019s going to affect you in this way then don\u2019t sort through the things at all,\u2019 said his father, holding the youngster at arm\u2019s length and observing him. \u2018What\u2019s got into you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing\u2019s got into him Pa,\u2019 said Adam hastily. \u2018You know how he gets. Probably still just affected by breaking up with Bertha Phillips. Come on Joe \u2026 let\u2019s play a game of checkers \u2026 OK?\u2019\u00a0 Joe nodded and wiped his nose on his sleeve as he tried to control himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked at his three sons, puzzled as to what was going on. He gave a large yawn and thought about how tired he was lately.\u00a0 The preparations for this party were certainly taking their toll on him and what with still having to make decisions about his Will and all \u2026\u00a0 He leant forward. \u2018Boys I\u2019ve been doing a bit of thinking,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ve been trying to make a decision about something and I\u2019m afraid I can\u2019t come up with any solution.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam left Joe and came to sit next to his father. \u2018We\u2019ll help you Pa,\u2019 he said gently. \u2018You know that we\u2019ll be here for you no matter what.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his eyebrows. \u2018Well that\u2019s nice to hear,\u2019 he said. \u2018Actually I was wondering if you could all give some thought to something for me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Anything Pa,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018You just name it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well this ranch was always intended for all of you to share after I\u2019m gone,\u2019 began Ben and then stopped as Joe let out a howl and ran quickly from the room. \u2018What\u2019s the matter with Joseph?\u2019 he asked. \u2018That girl must have been very special if he\u2019s still going on about her in this way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood up. \u2018I\u2019ll look after him,\u2019 he said sadly and left the room as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam continued to look at his father intently. \u2018What is it Pa?\u2019 he asked. \u2018You can ask me anything.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well it actually pertains to you more than your brothers to be honest. I\u2019ve been wondering which part of The Ponderosa is your favourite son,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018With your brothers it\u2019s obvious \u2026 Hoss Heaven for Hoss and down by the lake for Joseph \u2026 but I really don\u2019t know which part you\u2019d like.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam swallowed. \u2018I\u2019d \u2026 like?\u2019 he asked in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said his father, inhaling on his pipe again happily. \u2018For when I\u2019m not around.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked away and put his hand over his eyes for a moment. \u2018Oh Pa,\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked even more confused at his son\u2019s reaction. \u2018Well, you think about it,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m just trying to get some things sorted out in my mind at the moment.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and left the room as well. He found Hoss comforting Joe by the corral. \u2018It\u2019s gonna be OK shortshanks,\u2019 said Hoss miserably. \u2018We\u2019re all gonna stick together through this.\u2019\u00a0 He looked over at Adam mournfully. \u2018What did he ask?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed before replying. \u2018He wanted to know which part of The Ponderosa I\u2019d like after he\u2019s gone,\u2019 he said and then listened as Joe\u2019s sobs became louder. \u2018Get a hold of yourself Joe,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018For Pa\u2019s sake.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said squaring his shoulders. \u2018For Pa\u2019s sake.\u00a0 You\u2019re right Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam patted him on the shoulder. \u2018Come on back inside.\u00a0 He\u2019ll be wondering what\u2019s going on if we don\u2019t.\u2019\u00a0 Joe nodded again and cupped his hand in the water trough, splashing it onto his face to clean it up and remove the traces of his tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m OK,\u2019 he said sadly. \u2018I\u2019ll try to be strong for Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s the boy,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Come on now.\u00a0 Back inside.\u2019 He led the way inside and all three brothers stood looking fondly at their father for a few minutes as the man sat by the fireplace enjoying his pipe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally, Ben turned to face them. \u2018Would you three stop staring at me in that way please?\u2019 he asked in an irritated tone. \u2018If you have something to say, then just come on out and say it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We don\u2019t have anything to say,\u2019 Pa,\u2019 said Adam quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then kindly go and do something and stop standing there like three lovesick cows,\u2019 snapped his father. \u2018I\u2019d like to be left alone if you\u2019re all going to carry on in this way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just like a dying animal,\u2019 whispered Hoss into Adam\u2019s ear. \u2018Wanting to be left alone when the end comes.\u2019 Adam nodded and steered Joe upstairs before their father could see the look of the boy\u2019s face.\u00a0 Ben shook his head and continued to enjoy the peace and quiet as he puffed on his pipe happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took off his hat as he entered the small church and shut the door behind him.\u00a0 He looked around and then smiled as he saw Reverend Allen kneeling in the front of the altar with a large vase of flowers in his hand. \u2018Oh,\u2019 said the Reverend, looking somewhat embarrassed. \u2018Hello Adam.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at the vase in his hands and put it onto the altar table quickly. \u2018I don\u2019t normally do the flower arranging you know, but Abigail Jones couldn\u2019t make it this week and so I\u2019ve been rather stuck with it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes widened. \u2018Abigail Jones?\u2019 he said quickly.\u00a0 The name always sent a shiver down his spine.\u00a0 He looked around with an expression akin to that of a hunted animal. \u2018She\u2019s not here, is she?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said the Reverend, well aware of what must be going through the young man\u2019s mind.\u00a0 Abigail\u2019s fascination with the eldest Cartwright son was well known throughout the district. \u2018She\u2019s not here.\u00a0 What can I do for you Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve come for some help,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018It\u2019s a rather delicate matter though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sit down, sit down!\u2019 said the Reverend. \u2018Tell me all about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well it\u2019s about my Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018My brothers and I have been talking and \u2026 well \u2026\u2019 he eyed off the man. \u2018We know all about everything,\u2019 he said, watching the other man\u2019s face carefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reverend Allen looked startled. \u2018You do?\u2019 he said. \u2018So your father has finally told you then.\u00a0 I\u2019m glad.\u00a0 It\u2019s much better to have these things out in the open.\u00a0 Now you can help him get ready.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018Pa didn\u2019t actually tell us \u2026 we guessed.\u00a0 Hoss heard you and Paul Martin talking with Pa the other day and Joe heard him in town as well. He\u2019s determined to go through with this on his own, isn\u2019t he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well you know your father Adam,\u2019 said The Reverend. \u2018Paul and I wanted to help him \u2026 and we\u2019ve done our part \u2026 but he has insisted on doing most of it by himself.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018We\u2019ll do anything to help him now that we know,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 \u2018I just don\u2019t understand why he didn\u2019t confide in us before.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It was mainly because of Joe,\u2019 explained the Reverend. \u2018He thought that your brother might have blurted it out to Roy.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Roy doesn\u2019t know?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No of course not. Your Pa thought that if he did he might take off and not attend.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. Roy Coffee and his father had been friends for many years. No wonder he wanted to spare the man his funeral. \u2018I still think we have the right to know,\u2019 he said. \u2018Joe will handle it \u2026 I\u2019ll see to that.\u2019 He studied the man carefully. \u2018What should we do Reverend?\u00a0 How can we help Pa get through this?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reverend Allen put his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Just offer your support,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So you think that we should tell him that we know?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I don\u2019t see why not.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure he\u2019d like the three of you to help now that you do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood up. \u2018I will then,\u2019 he said. \u2018Thank you.\u00a0 You\u2019ve made things a lot clearer for me now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t mention it,\u2019 said the other man kindly. \u2018And tell your father for me that the music and the flowers are all arranged.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave him a stricken look. \u2018I will,\u2019 he said. \u2018Is there anything \u2026 I mean \u2026 should I talk to Paul Martin as well?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reverend Allen shook his head. \u2018I don\u2019t think there\u2019s anything else Paul can do for now,\u2019 he said. \u2018He\u2019s a busy man you know.\u00a0 That\u2019s why he appreciates your father not calling on him so much about this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018Yes.\u00a0 Pa is being so strong though it all. Thank you Reverend.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reverend Allen shook Adam\u2019s hand. \u2018I\u2019ll see you on Friday then?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked startled. \u2018You\u2019re so sure about that?\u00a0 He\u2019s even booked a date?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well of course,\u2019 said the Reverend. \u2018You know your father. He always likes to be organised.\u00a0 He said Friday \u2026 and Friday it shall be.\u00a0 There should be a lot of people there and you can\u2019t leave these things to just happen by themselves you know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s heart was heavy as he left the church.\u00a0 He wondered at the strength of his father and how he was managing to cope with all of this by himself. Adam squared his shoulders. \u2018Well no more!\u2019 he said out loud. \u2018We\u2019re going to help you through this Pa.\u00a0 That much I promise you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at his father dejectedly and then across at Hoss and Joe who were standing beside him. \u2018Pa?\u2019 he ventured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up from his desk where he was poring over a map. \u2018Yes son?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Can we talk to you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course.\u00a0 Aren\u2019t you all supposed to be out doing your chores though?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t think that chores are important right now, do you?\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018Chores are always important \u2026 you know that. I thought that I\u2019d raised you boys to understand that it\u2019s the little things that make this ranch run so well.\u00a0 No matter what goes on \u2026 chores are always important.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018You\u2019re right Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018And don\u2019t you worry.\u00a0 We\u2019ll keep things going around here for ya.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gave a satisfied nod. \u2018Glad to hear it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now what is it?\u2019\u00a0 He gave Joe a frustrated look as the boy walked around the desk, sat on the edge of it and leant in close to his father, giving the man one of his puppy dog looks. \u2018Do you mind Joseph?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe leant back again. \u2018I just want you to know that I love you Pa,\u2019 he said in a soft voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s look of frustration turned into one of delight. \u2018Well thank you son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I love you too.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 Adam tried again. \u2018We really need to talk to you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well \u2026 spit it out then,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018What\u2019s on your mind?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We know about \u2026 everything,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I\u2019ve talked to Reverend Allen and he confirmed what we already knew. Joe heard you talking to Paul Martin the other day in town about \u2026 everything.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018Joseph, how many times do I have to tell you about that eavesdropping?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sorry Pa,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018But we\u2019re just concerned bout you is all.\u2019\u00a0 He flung his arms around his father\u2019s neck. \u2018Oh Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tried to disengage his youngest son\u2019s arms without success. \u2018For heavens sake Joseph, calm down!\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m not that angry with you.\u2019 Joe sniffed a couple of times and sat up again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well now that you know then you can help me organise things,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018There isn\u2019t much time left.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss began to sob softly as he stared at his father. \u2018Don\u2019t say that Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019 said Ben. \u2018It\u2019s true.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So Paul Martin can\u2019t help?\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Paul has done all he can,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I don\u2019t intend to impose on him any longer. It\u2019s up to all of us to make this an event to remember.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I won\u2019t wanna remember it,\u2019 said Joe quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Why not?\u2019 asked Ben. \u2018You always enjoy gatherings Joseph.\u00a0 Lots of people will be there and it should be quite a day.\u2019 Joe gave his father a mournful look. \u2018I\u2019ll make out a list of last minute things for you boys to do,\u2019 continued their father. \u2018I\u2019d like The Ponderosa to really sparkle on Friday.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Sure Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I think it\u2019s more important that we look after you than worry about how the house looks.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Look after me?\u2019 asked Ben. \u2018Why on earth would you want to look after me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa you\u2019re always looking after us \u2026 always worrying about how we\u2019re going to cope with things.\u00a0 At least let us look after you just this once.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018I don\u2019t understand,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t need looking after.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018I think you do,\u2019 he said gently. \u2018Pa stop being so unselfish for once.\u00a0 Even the way you\u2019ve been making sure that your Will is up to date shows how \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How do you know about me updating my Will?\u2019 interrupted his father. \u2018I didn\u2019t tell you that.\u00a0 Did Hiram?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018He wouldn\u2019t tell me anything.\u00a0 I saw you coming out of his office a couple of weeks ago.\u00a0 I found out from Clive in the Bank that you were finalising your affairs.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe flung his arms around his father\u2019s neck again and clung on tightly. \u2018Pa don\u2019t leave us!\u2019 he sobbed. \u2018Please don\u2019t leave us!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pulled the youngster off him. \u2018I have no intention of leaving you,\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018And what has updating my Will got to do with Roy\u2019s party anyway?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was silence. \u2018Roy\u2019s \u2026 party?\u2019 asked Adam finally. \u2018What party?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018The surprise birthday party that we\u2019ve been discussing,\u2019 he said. \u2018What party did you think?\u2019\u00a0 He turned to Joe who was staring at him with his mouth open. \u2018And why on earth are you carrying on like this Joseph?\u00a0 Don\u2019t tell me it\u2019s still that girl of yours?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s mouth opened and closed a couple of times. \u2018Girl?\u2019 he finally asked. \u2018What girl?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Bertha Phillips I believe was her name.\u00a0 Isn\u2019t she the one who\u2019s been making you so emotional this week?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned. \u2018Heck no,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m going out with Margaret Adams now.\u00a0 What\u2019s Bertha Phillips got to do with anything? She ain\u2019t important in my life.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018Well what is all this about then?\u2019 he said. \u2018One of you spit it out please.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019re getting a party organised for Roy Coffee?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u00a0 Isn\u2019t that what you were offering to help me with?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And \u2026\u2019 Adam looked at Hoss and Joe. \u2018And you were discussing it with Paul Martin and Reverend Allen?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u00a0 They\u2019ve been helping me.\u00a0 The Reverend has been getting the decorations and the music ready and Paul has been helping with the guest list.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why didn\u2019t you tell us?\u2019 said Adam in an accusing tone. We thought \u2026\u2019 He stopped, feeling rather foolish.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You thought what?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We thought you was gonna die Pa!\u2019 cried Joe, flinging his arms around his father\u2019s neck again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben disengaged himself for the second time. \u2018You thought I was going to what?\u2019 he shouted. \u2018Are you boys serious?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well what about the medicine the doc gave you?\u2019 asked Joe defensively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Whiskey,\u2019 chuckled Ben. \u2018He thought I looked a bit stressed what with getting everything organised.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And what about you making your Will and all?\u2019 asked Hoss. \u2018What about that Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well what about it?\u2019 asked Ben. \u2018Do I need to be dying before I update my Will?\u00a0 It\u2019s something I\u2019ve been meaning to do for a long time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And all the questions about what part of The Ponderosa we\u2019d like?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tapped the map in front of him on the desk. \u2018A sensible thing to start thinking about, I would have thought,\u2019 he said. \u2018I really want to make sure that each of you gets the part of the ranch that means the most to you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And having to know how much money you have?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I needed to put a figure into the Will,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well what about all them things you was making us take from the attic?\u2019 asked Joe defensively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben fixed his youngest with a steely glare. \u2018I was actually trying to tidy this place up a bit,\u2019 he said. \u2018Really boys \u2026 you can\u2019t be serious!\u00a0 You didn\u2019t really think that I was dying did you?\u2019\u00a0 He looked from one son to the other as they all nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben burst out laughing. \u2018Well I\u2019m sorry to have worried you!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It ain\u2019t funny Pa,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018We really thought we was gonna lose you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sobered. \u2018I\u2019m sorry son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I didn\u2019t mean to make fun of you.\u00a0 It\u2019s all just been a tragic set of circumstances, that\u2019s all.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at his three sons seriously. \u2018I want you all to know that I have no intention of leaving you for a very long time if I can avoid it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now let\u2019s have no more talk about me dyin, shall we?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well what about your Will?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I still intend to update it,\u2019 said his father. \u2018I might leave it until after the party now though.\u00a0 I think it might be a good idea for all of us to sit down and discuss some of the issues involved as a family.\u2019 He glanced at the map in front of him. \u2018I still want to be fair to all of you,\u2019 he said. \u2018The Ponderosa has always been intended for the three of you and I want to make sure that it remains your legacy for many years to come.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Epilogue<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Twenty Five Years Later<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright dismounted slowly from his horse and tipped his hat at the portly woman walking past with nine children following her, shuddering as he watched her ample back view disappear from sight.\u00a0 Margaret Peterson, or Clancy, as she had been for many years now, had certainly not aged well.\u00a0 The double chin and the enormous girth made him wonder what he had ever seen in her all those years ago. He counted his lucky stars that their relationship had only been a short one, for the way he heard it she certainly gave her husband a hard time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe opened the door to Matthew Wood\u2019s office and grinned at the lawyer as he entered. \u2018Hi Matt!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Matt looked up and Joe thought for perhaps the hundredth time how very like his father Hiram he was. \u2018Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Any news yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded as he drew a letter out of his pocket. \u2018I got this yesterday,\u2019 he said. Matt looked at it and noticed that the stamp on it was from Australia. \u2018Adam?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018He doesn\u2019t want it Matt.\u00a0 He says that he quite happy to let it all come to me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Matt shook his head. \u2018I can\u2019t understand it,\u2019 he said. \u2018All that land.\u00a0 Joe, it\u2019s worth a fortune \u2026 and your brother is prepared to just give it up? I can\u2019t believe that it isn\u2019t important to him any more.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well with Pa gone now \u2026 and well \u2026 Adam\u2019s had his roots across the other side of the world for many years,\u2019 explained Joe. \u2018It isn\u2019t that The Ponderosa ain\u2019t important to him any more, I guess.\u00a0 It\u2019s just that with Hoss gone he\u2019s willing to leave it all in my care.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Matt nodded. \u2018I suppose so,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018There\u2019s something I\u2019d like you to do for me please Matt,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I want to update my Will,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018With no family of my own I\u2019d like to at least leave The Ponderosa to Adam\u2019s children.\u00a0 Pa always wanted it to remain in Cartwright hands and Adam\u2019s kids are the only ones left now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Matt nodded. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll have it drawn all up for you to check over.\u2019\u00a0 He smiled at Joe as the other man stood up. \u2018You know it\u2019s never too late to have some of your own Joe,\u2019 he said with a twinkle in his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyebrows raised and he gave a short chuckle. \u2018Now you\u2019re beginning to sound like my Pa used to,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well at least think about it,\u2019 said Matt as Joe opened the door to leave. \u2018Your Pa always wanted it to be your legacy after all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe walked back out into the bright sunshine he thought about Matt\u2019s words.\u00a0 It was true that Pa had always hoped to leave his dream to his grandchildren \u2026 but those same grandchildren he\u2019d never even had the opportunity to see, as Adam\u2019s brood were so far away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed as he looked across the street.\u00a0 Behind the stage which had just arrived, a petite blonde woman emerged, looking around her anxiously as she picked up a bag.\u00a0 Joe grinned and began to cross the street. \u2018No … it\u2019s never too late,\u2019 he mumbled to himself. \u2018Morning ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said out loud as he tipped his hat and checked at the same time to make sure that there was no wedding ring on her finger. He gave her one of his most charming smiles. \u2018Joe Cartwright\u2019s the name.\u00a0 Can I offer you some assistance?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0Ben decides to update his will, which causes his sons some anxiety<\/p>\n

Rated: K (10,855 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":14928,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","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":[23,1008],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1894","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1595,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/last-will.jpg?fit=276%2C182&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":4656,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=4656","url_meta":{"origin":1894,"position":0},"title":"Guilty (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"August 11, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Accused of a crime he didn't commit, Joe finds himself facing the ultimate punishment while his brothers race against time to bring the witness who can clear Joe's name. Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 (9,620 words) Guilty Series, links to all the stories within the series included.","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Noose.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12177,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12177","url_meta":{"origin":1894,"position":1},"title":"You Just Wait and See (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"November 1, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: When Little Joe tries to keep his friend from getting in trouble things go all wrong for the youngest Cartwright. Rated PG \u00a0WC \u00a026,000","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/bonanza.jpg?fit=295%2C295&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":14279,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14279","url_meta":{"origin":1894,"position":2},"title":"Adam and the Imp of Satan #2 – The Imp, Some Demons, and a Few Short Lists (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 10, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Abigail Warner has returned, just in time for the trial. Rating: \u00a0T \u00a0(19,070 words) Adam and the Imp of Satan Series, links to all the stories within the series included.","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\/2017\/03\/Gold-Mine.png?fit=586%2C426&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Gold-Mine.png?fit=586%2C426&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Gold-Mine.png?fit=586%2C426&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":45736,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=45736","url_meta":{"origin":1894,"position":3},"title":"The Golden Rule (by Judy)","author":"Judy","date":"April 17, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 To do the right thing, Joe must disobey his father. Rated:\u00a0 PG Word Count:\u00a0 16,555","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":5101,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5101","url_meta":{"origin":1894,"position":4},"title":"A Man Named Bill (by Wrangler)","author":"Wrangler","date":"January 15, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Suffering from amnesia, Little Joe is found in a remote town, and his rescuers attempt to reunite him with his family without causing any further trauma. Rating T, WC 22,000","rel":"","context":"In "Ben \/ Joe"","block_context":{"text":"Ben \/ Joe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1015"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe2.jpg?fit=717%2C573&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe2.jpg?fit=717%2C573&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe2.jpg?fit=717%2C573&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe2.jpg?fit=717%2C573&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":6278,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6278","url_meta":{"origin":1894,"position":5},"title":"The Final Goodbye (by JudyW)","author":"JudyW","date":"May 3, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Just my feelings on how Adam may have come back to the Ponderosa. 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