{"id":2034,"date":"2010-06-07T13:21:56","date_gmt":"2010-06-07T17:21:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2034"},"modified":"2026-03-11T15:04:19","modified_gmt":"2026-03-11T19:04:19","slug":"ponderosa-party","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2034","title":{"rendered":"Ponderosa Party (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Ben decides to give Adam a welcome home party when he returns from college, but the preparations for it put a strain on everyone<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K (12,480 words)<\/p>\n

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Ponderosa Party<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright beamed contentedly at his three boys as they sat around the table. It had been so long since they\u2019d been together like this that now that it had finally happened Ben felt like his heart was full to bursting. He had been looking forward to this moment for so long that he had to pinch himself to realise that it was finally here, and he revelled in the sound and sight of his three sons all back together again.\u00a0 He just knew that life was about to get better.<\/p>\n

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Ben glanced over at the reason why he felt this way. Had it really been four years since Adam had been home?\u00a0 In many ways it seemed like only yesterday that the boy had left for Boston and yet looking at him now Ben knew that time had indeed marched on.\u00a0 His eldest son wasn\u2019t a boy any longer, but a young man showing all the signs of the sophistication that living back East had left on him.\u00a0 He had developed into a mature and intelligent man that Ben knew he was very proud of.\u00a0 His dark good looks would also set the hearts of the females in the district fluttering when they saw him again, of that he was sure.\u00a0 Oh yes!\u00a0 Adam Cartwright\u2019s return home was certainly going to have an impact on the Territory of Nevada.<\/p>\n

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Suddenly, an idea occurred to him and he bent forward excitedly as he said, \u2018Boys! I\u2019ve just had a wonderful idea!\u2019<\/p>\n

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All three of his sons looked at him expectantly. \u2018What?\u2019 they chorused.<\/p>\n

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\u2018How about we give a party?\u2019 he suggested. \u2018To celebrate Adam\u2019s return?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam smiled broadly. \u2018That\u2019d be great Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019d give me the chance to meet up with everyone all at once.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss grinned. \u2018Hot diggety!\u2019 he said. \u2018Let\u2019s get Hop Sing to cooking right now!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Little Joe bounced in his chair excitedly. \u2018Yes!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018A party!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben sat back, pleased at the reaction from his boys. \u2018We\u2019ll make it an affair this district hasn\u2019t seen for many a year.\u2019 he declared. \u2018It\u2019s about time we did some celebrating around here!\u2019\u00a0 He nodded in satisfaction as he thought about it. He just knew that this party would be such a happy occasion and one that the Cartwright family would remember for a long time to come.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

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\u2018What ya doing Pa?\u2019 asked Little Joe as he looked over his father\u2019s arm at the paper he was writing on.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019m making out the guest list for the party next Saturday,\u2019 replied Ben.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Have ya got Mitch\u2019s name on it?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018And Seth?\u00a0 Oh and don\u2019t forget my new friend George who just moved in.\u00a0 And then there\u2019s\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Joseph this isn\u2019t a party for your friends,\u2019 said Ben as he continued to write. \u2018It\u2019s a party to welcome your brother Adam home from Boston.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe frowned. \u2018Yeah!\u2019 he agreed. \u2018But my friends\u2019ll wanna welcome him too!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Son, it\u2019s a grownup party\u2026 I thought you understood that.\u00a0 It\u2019ll be at night time and I\u2019m afraid it will be too late for your friends.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018But who will I play with if none of em come?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018That ain\u2019t fair Pa!\u00a0 Adam and Hoss\u2019ll have their friends here!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben put down his pen and took his youngest son by the shoulders. \u2018Joseph I\u2019m afraid you won\u2019t need your friends to play with.\u00a0 You can come to some of the party, but it will go much too late for you to be there for all of it.\u00a0 You\u2019ll need to go to bed before it\u2019s finished.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe\u2019s bottom lip dropped. \u2018But that ain\u2019t fair!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018What isn\u2019t fair?\u2019 asked Adam, coming up behind them.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Pa says I have ta go to bed before the party gets finished!\u2019 said Little Joe indignantly.<\/p>\n

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Adam gave his father a half-smile. \u2018Don\u2019t worry Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018There won\u2019t be much going on that you\u2019d be interested in at that stage. You\u2019ll be glad to go to bed when the time comes.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe crossed his arms over his chest. \u2018No I won\u2019t!\u2019 he said. \u2018It ain\u2019t fair!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Joseph!\u2019 admonished his father. \u2018That\u2019s enough! Any more of that nonsense and you won\u2019t be coming to any of the party and you\u2019ll spend the evening in your room instead young man!\u2019 Joe glared at his father. \u2018Now get outside and finish your chores,\u2019 instructed Ben. \u2018Go on!\u2019\u00a0 Both Ben and Adam flinched as the front door banged loudly to signal the exit of the youngest Cartwright.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well it\u2019s obvious that his temper hasn\u2019t improved any since I\u2019ve been away,\u2019 said Adam as he sat down. \u2018Still the same volatile kid as when I left.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes.\u00a0 Only now he\u2019s older and harder to reason with,\u2019 agreed Ben.<\/p>\n

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\u2018How\u2019s the guest list coming?\u2019 asked Adam, leaning forward to read what his father had written. \u2018How many people are you thinking of asking?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Just about everyone I can think of,\u2019 said his father as he handed him the paper to check. \u2018It\u2019s not every day we put on a celebration like this.\u00a0 If there\u2019s anyone you can think of that I\u2019ve left off, let me know.\u2019\u00a0 He watched as Adam quickly skimmed the list.<\/p>\n

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

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\u2018They moved back East a year ago,\u2019 replied his father.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Oh. Bill Morris?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Denver.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam shrugged. \u2018Seems I\u2019ve got a bit of catching up to do,\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s quite a few names here I don\u2019t even know.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben nodded. \u2018I thought it would be a good opportunity for you to meet some of the new folks around here as well,\u2019 he said. \u2018Seems like there\u2019s new families moving in all the time lately.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018So it seems. I don\u2019t know half these people.\u2019\u00a0 Adam rattled off a few out loud. \u2018Bert and Maude Sims, John and Myra Fletcher, William and Frances Miles\u2026 you\u2019ve included quite a few single young ladies as well I see?\u2019\u00a0 He gave his father an amused grin. \u2018Trying to marry me off Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben tried to look embarrassed, but failed. \u2018Of course not!\u2019 he declared. \u2018As if I\u2019d want you to leave home when you\u2019ve just come back again! I just thought\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That it\u2019d be a good chance for me to meet them,\u2019 Adam finished for his father. \u2018I understand.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well otherwise they\u2019ll all be beating a path to our front door in the next few weeks to check you out,\u2019 said Ben with a laugh. \u2018I\u2019m just trying to save time for all concerned that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam laughed as well. \u2018Let\u2019s see\u2026.who do we have here? Rachel Thomas?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018New family who moved into the Henderson place.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sally Frost?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Daughter of the new Bank Manager.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sarah Parks?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Bert Parks\u2019 daughter.\u00a0 You met him yesterday.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Abigail Jones?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018The new school teacher.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Mary Read?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Martha Read\u2019s sister.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well you\u2019ve sure given me quite a few to choose from Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben shrugged. \u2018I\u2019ll let you do the choosing son.\u00a0 I\u2019m just providing the party and I\u2019m determined that it\u2019s going to be a good one.\u2019<\/p>\n

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The front door banged open again and Hoss entered. \u2018What\u2019s wrong with Little Joe?\u2019 he asked. \u2018He\u2019s got a face like thunder out there.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018It seems our little brother is put out because he\u2019ll have to go to bed before the party is finished,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018He\u2019ll get over it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss frowned. \u2018Don\u2019t see why he\u2019d care!\u2019 he said. \u2018By the time he goes upstairs most of the food will be gone anyways.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam grinned. \u2018Hoss there\u2019s more to a party than just the food you know. It seems I might just have to take you in hand and teach you some of the finer points of socialising now that I\u2019m back.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss looked at his older brother seriously. \u2018Would ya Adam?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I\u2019m not too good at that kind of thing.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Of course I will,\u2019 said Adam generously. \u2018What do you want help with?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Everything!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018What to wear, what to say to all them young ladies, dancing and all that stuff\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam laughed. \u2018Anything else?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

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Hoss considered for a moment. \u2018I\u2019m not sure,\u2019 he mused. \u2018There might be other things I\u2019ve forgotten about.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben smiled at his two boys. \u2018Well it seems you might have your work cut out for you Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018Remember there\u2019s only a week to the party.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018We\u2019ll start tonight,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018Don\u2018t worry Hoss\u2026 by the time I\u2019m finished with you, you\u2019ll be the talk of the party!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I don\u2019t think so older brother,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I have a feeling that\u2019ll be you! Folks around here have been talking about you coming home for weeks.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Have they?\u2019 asked Adam, surprised.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sure have!\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Seems like my eldest son has caused quite a stir in town without even trying to. The more I think about it, this party is going to be a hit for everyone!\u2019 He sat back in his chair happily. The next week should be an enjoyable one.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2018Not like that! Put your feet like this!\u2019 said Adam in a frustrated tone of voice.\u00a0 Ben smiled to himself as he hid his face behind his newspaper and listened to his two eldest sons.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019ve got em like that!\u2019 declared Hoss. \u2018See?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Don\u2019t see what ya want to practise that stupid dancing for anyways!\u2019 declared Little Joe. \u2018It\u2019s gonna be a dumb party if everyone dances!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well what do you think people do at a party?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Eat!\u2019 his little brother declared. \u2018And play games.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Oh don\u2019t you worry son,\u2019 said his father quietly. \u2018I have a feeling that there\u2019ll be plenty of game playing between all the young people there without a doubt!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yeah?\u2019 said Little Joe. \u2018Will it be before I have ta go to bed? Can I play?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I have a feeling Pa is talking about grownup games,\u2019 said Adam with a grin at his father.<\/p>\n

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Little Joe stuck his bottom lip out again. \u2018How come everything is for grownups?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Because it\u2019s a grownup party,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

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Joe glared at his eldest brother in disgust. \u2018Hmph!\u2019 he grunted.<\/p>\n

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Adam turned back to Hoss. \u2018Like this!\u2019 he said, moving his feet gracefully and gliding along the floor.\u00a0 \u2018Now you try it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss attempted to copy his brother\u2019s actions, but his movements only brought a snort of derision from Little Joe. \u2018You look funny Hoss!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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Hoss stopped. \u2018Shut up!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018How would you know what it\u2019s supposed ta look like anyways?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well I know it ain\u2019t supposed ta look like that!\u2019 said Little Joe gleefully.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Joseph, go to bed!\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

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\u2018How come I gotta go to bed every time things get interesting?\u2019 asked Little Joe indignantly.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Because I said so!\u2019 said his father. \u2018Now get!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe pouted, but did as his father ordered.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Now, try it again,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Here.\u00a0 Put your arm around me and pretend I\u2019m the girl.\u2019\u00a0 There was a giggle from the top of the stairs.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Joseph!\u2019 shouted his father. Little Joe\u2019s head disappeared.<\/p>\n

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Ben hid his face in his paper again as he tried to smother his own laughter. It sure was proving to be an interesting week!<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2018Aw come on Hop Sing!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I\u2019ve got work ta do today!\u00a0 Can\u2019t all of this wait?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Not if you want party food ready on time!\u2019 said Hop Sing angrily. \u2018I got much to do! No one ask Hop Sing before decide party! Need lots more sugar, flour, all things on list!\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well how come I\u2019m the one that has ta go in and get em?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Because you\u2019re the one that eats most of it,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Besides, I can\u2019t go into town and spoil the surprise of everyone seeing me before the party now, can I?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss didn\u2019t look convinced.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019ll come and help ya Hoss,\u2019 offered Little Joe. \u2018I don\u2019t mind missing school if it helps get things ready for the party.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I\u2019ll bet you don\u2019t,\u2019 said Adam dryly.\u00a0 In the short time he\u2019d been back it was obvious to him that school wasn\u2019t his little brother\u2019s favourite place to be. \u2018You can\u2019t just take days off school when you feel like it Joe.\u00a0 You\u2019ll never learn anything that way.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Joe scowled at him. \u2018Maybe I don\u2019t wanna learn nothing!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018You don\u2019t want to learn anything,\u2019 Adam corrected.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I know,\u2019 said Joe, pleased to see that his brother agreed with him. \u2018Anyways, school\u2019s awful what with that new teacher we\u2019ve got.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018That\u2019s Abigail Jones isn\u2019t it?\u2019 asked Adam, remembering the name from the guest list. \u2018What\u2019s she like?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Real boring,\u2019 said Joe. He thought for a moment. \u2018You\u2019d probbly like her though.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Oh? Why is that?\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Cause she\u2019s always going on bout the sorts of things that you do,\u2019 replied his brother. \u2018Books and history and stuff.\u2019\u00a0 He put his hand on his heart and fluttered his eyelashes as he rolled his eyes. \u2018She says that she lives for Shakespeare.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam grinned. \u2018Sounds like my kind of woman,\u2019 he said. \u2018Seems like Virginia City is finally attracting refined people for a change.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

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\u2018Oh nothing Pa.\u00a0 It\u2019s just that once you\u2019ve lived in a big city it\u2019s kinda hard to come back to a small town you know,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I\u2019ve been wondering what I\u2019ll stimulate my brain with while I\u2019m here.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben lifted an eyebrow. He didn\u2019t much care for his son\u2019s remark. \u2018Well Virginia City might not be Boston son, but we usually do just fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018I don\u2019t mean it as a criticism Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018It\u2019s just\u2026.well you must admit that to a person used to city life like me it can be a bit dull.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben raised the other eyebrow. \u2018You seem to forget that I spent the first half of my life living in big cities,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019re not the only person in these parts who has experienced life back East.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Adam took a sip from his coffee cup and was silent, sensing that he\u2019d upset his father.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I reckon you can stimlat your brain with Miss Jones Adam,\u2019 interrupted Little Joe.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well I\u2019ll sure be interested to meet her,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Off you go now boys,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Joseph you can ride into town with Hoss, then you get straight to school. Adam, I think you can worry about stimulating your brain at another time.\u00a0 It\u2019s time we got your body stimulated with a bit of post-digging today.\u2019<\/p>\n

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None of his sons looked very happy with their allotted tasks for the day, but they all stood up and left the table at once.\u00a0 In the kitchen Ben could hear Hop Sing muttering to himself in Chinese as he slammed the pots and pans around.\u00a0 He rolled his eyes. \u2018I think I might join you son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m in the mood for a bit of post-digging myself and I don\u2019t really relish staying at home today.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

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\u2018Is all this for the party?\u2019 asked Sam Winter. \u2018Sure seems like its gonna be a big one.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure is!\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019m sure looking forward to seeing Adam again,\u2019 said Sam. \u2018Nice of your father to invite me. I\u2019ll get this order filled straight away, but it\u2019ll take a while. Why don\u2019t you come back in about half an hour?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure thing Sam,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I\u2019ll go on down to the Livery while I\u2019m waiting.\u2019\u00a0 He left the store and headed down the street. After a moment he heard a voice hailing him from across the street and turned to see Betsy-Sue Wilson waving at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss! Hoss Cartwright!\u2019 she called. \u2018Wait!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed nervously as he waited for the girl to cross over to him. \u2018\u2019Ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said tipping his hat to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fancy seeing you here Hoss,\u2019 she said delightedly. \u2018Are you shopping for the party?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. He licked his lips. \u2018Um\u2026how are you today?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled at him. \u2018Fine thank you Hoss\u2026. And you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine thanks ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. There was silence as he wondered what else he could say to her.\u00a0 He was usually tongue-tied at the best of times with girls, but Betsy-Sue seemed to make him more nervous than anyone. She looked at him expectantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So how are the preparations going for the party?\u2019 she asked finally.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She tried again. \u2018It seems like everyone around town is talking about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Reckon so.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sidled closer to him. \u2018It sounds exciting.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Uh huh.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Betsy-Sue smiled at him again. \u2018Well it\u2019s nice to see you Hoss,\u2019 she said. \u2018I always enjoy talking to you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Do you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Of course I do.\u00a0 I wish we could see more of each other.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You do?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes.\u2019 She fluttered her eyelashes at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Would ya like\u2026 I mean\u2026. I might see ya at the party then.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She clapped her hands delightedly. \u2018Oh thank you Hoss!\u00a0 I\u2019d love to come! Excuse me while I go and do some shopping now.\u00a0 I have to get my outfit organised.\u2019\u00a0 She swept away happily to tell her friends that she\u2019d just snared an invitation to the event of the year.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked after the girl longingly and licked his lips.\u00a0 Maybe coming into town hadn\u2019t been such a bad thing after all?<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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I\u2019ve got another person to add to the guest list Pa,\u2019 Hoss said at the supper table that evening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh? And who would that be?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Betsy-Sue Wilson.\u00a0 I kinda asked her today when I was in town.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked pleased.\u00a0 Hoss was so shy around girls that it was rare for him to even think of talking to one, let alone inviting one out. \u2018That\u2019d be fine son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll add her to the list.\u2019 Hoss grinned at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Still don\u2019t see why I can\u2019t invite some of my friends,\u2019 said Little Joe sulkily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We\u2019ve been all through that Joseph,\u2019 said his father. \u2018You\u2019ve had your share of parties in the past.\u00a0 This one is for your brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s right,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I\u2019m the guest of honour at this one.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe studied his brother for a moment silently. \u2018My teacher was asking bout you today,\u2019 he said. \u2018She was real pleased to get her invitation.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Was she?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018I\u2019m beginning to really like the sound of this Abigail Jones.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben coughed. \u2018I wouldn\u2019t expect too much of her if I were you son,\u2019 he said. \u2018I think there are other young ladies around town who might be more suitable for you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned at his father. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m twenty-two years old!\u00a0 I think I\u2019m old enough to decide my preferences as far as women are concerned.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure you are son,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018I\u2019m just warning you that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bristled at his father\u2019s tone. \u2018Well I think that Abigail Jones sounds like my kind of woman,\u2019 he said, sounding offended.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe stared at them both. \u2018She sure is!\u2019 he said. \u2018She\u2019s real boring too!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave him a dark look. \u2018I\u2019ll thank you to keep your opinion to yourself,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u2018I was just saying,\u2019 he said. \u2018She was asking all bout ya.\u00a0 I said that you liked books and stuff like she does and she said that she\u2019s looking forward ta meeting you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled. \u2018And what does she look like?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe thought for a moment. \u2018I dunno,\u2019 he said. \u2018Like a lady I guess.\u00a0 She\u2019s got big \u2026 um,\u2019 he glanced sideways at his father and indicated his chest area. \u2018Up here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben coughed. \u2018That will do Joseph,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked thoughtful, but didn\u2019t say anything. \u2018She dresses nice but,\u2019 said Little Joe. \u2018With bows and stuff.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Really?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yep.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss interrupted. \u2018Hey Adam, do ya reckon that we could practise what ta say ta girls tonight instead of dancing? I need ta know how to talk ta Betsy-Sue.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think that\u2019s a good idea,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018My toes would certainly appreciate a break.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss didn\u2019t appear to have heard him, but stared dreamily into space. \u2018That Betsy-Sue sure is a nice gal,\u2019 he said. \u2018She likes me too.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a bang from the kitchen and they all jumped. \u2018What was that?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hop Sing,\u2019 said his father. \u2018He\u2019s in a bad mood because of the party.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At that moment the cook entered the room, bearing a platter which he plonked down on the table. Hoss wrinkled his nose. \u2018What\u2019s this?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Supper!\u2019 pronounced the cook. They all looked at the rather unappetising fare in front of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Where\u2019s the roast beef we usually have?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing waved his arms around. \u2018Hop Sing no got time for fancy supper!\u2019 he shouted. \u2018All time do cooking for party.\u00a0 All time do cleaning for party! No one ask Hop Sing about party before plan! Hop Sing too busy for prepare roast beef for supper! Eat!\u2019\u00a0 He flounced out of the room again, leaving everyone speechless for a moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I ain\u2019t eating that!\u2019 declared Little Joe after a moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll eat it and like it!\u2019 said his father firmly as he piled some onto his youngest son\u2019s plate.\u00a0 He sighed.\u00a0 It seemed that the week was turning out to be not as pleasant as he had anticipated.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well how do I know what she likes to talk about?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You just ask her a few questions about herself,\u2019 explained Adam patiently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What kind of questions?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well\u2026. Like what kind of hobbies she likes and what she enjoys doing in her spare time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And then what?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And then you pay her a few compliments.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What kind of compliments?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You tell her how lovely she looks in the dress she\u2019s wearing for a start.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What if she don\u2019t look good in it though?\u2019 asked Little Joe, who was following his brothers\u2019 conversation closely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It doesn\u2019t matter,\u2019 said Adam . \u2018You tell her that she does anyway.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh,\u2019 said his little brother thoughtfully. \u2018So you lie bout it, do ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben turned a page of his paper as he began to laugh and then turned it into a cough.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No you don\u2019t lie,\u2019 said Adam crossly. \u2018You just \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He noticed his two brothers listening to him intently. \u2018You just bend the truth a little bit that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe looked at Hoss triumphantly. \u2018He means ya lie,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave him a dark look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So what other kind of compliments do I give her?\u2019 asked Hoss. \u2018Telling her she looks nice takes about one minute!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018You tell her that her hair looks lovely in the moonlight.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What if there\u2019s no moon?\u2019 interrupted Little Joe again. \u2018Or if they\u2019re inside?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Would you be quiet!\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Then you tell her that she smells nice and you ask her what kind of perfume she uses.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What if she ain\u2019t wearing none?\u2019 interrupted Little Joe again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned on his little brother. \u2018Isn\u2019t it time for you to go to bed?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nope!\u2019 said Little Joe happily. \u2018I\u2019ve got lots of time yet. Besides I want to hear how to talk to girls too.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why? You told me you don\u2019t like them.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave his brother a strange look. \u2018Well you never know when I might have to talk to one of em,\u2019 he said. \u2018Girls can be real tricky.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben coughed again and hid his head behind his paper. Adam ignored his youngest brother and turned to Hoss again. \u2018You could always talk to her about the things that you\u2019re interested in as well,\u2019 he said. \u2018Girls like to hear about what men do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss thought for a moment. \u2018Like what?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well\u2026. What are you interested in?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss frowned. \u2018Um\u2026. branding,\u2019 he said finally. Ben coughed again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Isn\u2019t there something else you like?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Horses?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled. \u2018That\u2019ll do!\u2019 he said. \u2018Talk to her about some of the horses we\u2019ve got.\u00a0 And you could ask her if she likes riding.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why?\u2019 asked Little Joe, but everyone ignored him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then if she ways yes, you could ask her if she\u2019d like to go for a ride,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019d be too dark,\u2019 interrupted Little Joe. \u2018The party\u2019s at night, remember?\u2019 He looked at Adam as if he was stupid.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018I didn\u2019t mean straight away,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I meant for the future.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t know if I could do that,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I think It\u2019ll be hard enough ta get through the party without asking her out for another date.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son, let him get through one night at a time,\u2019 said Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam threw his hands up in the air. \u2018I give up!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya don\u2019t know much bout women after all do ya Adam?\u2019 said Little Joe sympathetically. Ben coughed again as his eldest son stomped up the stairs to his room.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2018Very nice,\u2019 said Adam as he looked at the vest that Hoss held up for his inspection. \u2018You chose well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well Pa picked it out really,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018It\u2019ll go with my good pants don\u2019t ya think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll look fine,\u2019 said Adam reassuringly. \u2018Don\u2019t you worry about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How come I don\u2019t get anything new to wear?\u2019 complained Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll wear your Sunday church outfit,\u2019 said his father. \u2018But as it so happens we did get you something to wear Joseph.\u2019\u00a0 He held out a string tie for his son\u2019s inspection.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grimaced. \u2018I ain\u2019t wearing no tie!\u2019 he declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I thought you wanted to be like the grownups?\u2019 asked Adam with a smirk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah\u2026. but I don\u2019t see what wearing a tie has got to do with it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll wear the tie with no complaints,\u2019 said Ben sternly. \u2018I want everyone to look their best on Saturday night.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe continued to scowl. \u2018Don\u2019t worry Joe,\u2019 said Hoss consolingly. \u2018I have ta wear one too and they ain\u2019t exactly my favourite piece of clothing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018This party is turning out to be real annoying,\u2019 said Joe sulkily. \u2018I don\u2019t even get to go to half of it, but I have to wear a tie anyway!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll want to look nice when you greet the guests,\u2019 explained his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why do I have ta greet em?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018That\u2019s Adam\u2019s job\u2026they\u2019re his guests!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I want you to be in charge of putting the coats in the guest room,\u2019 explained his father. \u2018So you\u2019ll need to be right at the front door as people come in.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How come I get to work?\u2019 asked Joe indignantly. \u2018That ain\u2019t fair!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018We all get to work,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018That\u2019s what you do when you put on a party. Each of us will have something to do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Like what?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss is charge of making sure that everyone\u2019s buggies and horses are taken care of.\u00a0 Hop Sing is in charge of the refreshments.\u00a0 Adam and I need to greet the guests and you\u2019ll do the coats.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sounds like I get the boring job!\u00a0 I\u2019ll help with the horses.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ll do as you\u2019re told,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018And while we\u2019re on the subject, tomorrow you\u2019ll all be needed to help tidy up around here and set things up.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But it\u2019s Saturday!\u2019 declared Joe with an anguished look. \u2018It\u2019s my free day!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not this week it isn\u2019t.\u00a0 I told you\u2026 you\u2019ll be needed to tidy up.\u00a0 Hop Sing shouldn\u2019t be expected to do it all.\u2019 Joe slumped down in his chair. \u2018And you can get that look off your face straight away young man,\u2019 said his father. \u2018I\u2019ll have none of your nonsense. Having a party means that we all have to do our part and you\u2019re expected to help.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Pa,\u2019 Joe said mournfully as he thought about his cherished Saturday slipping away from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It won\u2019t be so bad Joe,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018As soon as all the guests have arrived you\u2019ll be able to enjoy the party.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pouted again. \u2018Yeah right!\u00a0 By then it\u2019ll be time for me to go to bed and how can I enjoy nothing when I\u2019ve got no friends there?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben smiled at his youngest son. \u2018I\u2019ll tell you what son,\u2019 he said. \u2018How about you and I pack up some of the leftovers the next day and make a day of it fishing?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Joe sat up straight in his chair again. \u2018Ya mean it Pa? That\u2019d be great!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben pointed his finger at his son. \u2018Well it all depends on you behaving yourself of course,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

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\u2018I will Pa!\u2019 said Joe, smiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I guess there\u2019s a first time for everything,\u2019 said Adam dryly.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Ben came out of the barn and smiled to see the activity in the front yard. Adam and Hoss were up on ladders hanging up a variety of Chinese lanterns and Joseph was busy sweeping the front porch. Hop Sing was bustling between the kitchen and the tables that had been set up, carrying plates and glasses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well everything is beginning to look very festive,\u2019 said Ben happily. \u2018Good work everyone!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled down at his father from his position on top of the ladder. \u2018We\u2019re just about done here,\u2019 he said. \u2018Here Hoss, catch this!\u2019 He threw a hammer at Hoss who caught it nimbly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned to Hop Sing. \u2018Need anything done?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Chinese cook waved his arms around. \u2018Much still to do!\u2019 he declared. \u2018No time!\u2019\u00a0 He uttered a string of Chinese phrases. \u2018No one ask Hop Sing about party!\u2019 he said. \u2018Hop Sing do all work\u2026 no one care!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tried not to look frustrated at the words he\u2019d heard all week from the man. \u2018We\u2019re very appreciative Hop Sing,\u2019 he said soothingly. \u2018Whatever you want us to do to help, then we\u2019ll do it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing merely waved his arms around again and went into the kitchen, continuing to shout in Chinese. \u2018He\u2019s been telling me what to do all day,\u2019 said Little Joe unhappily. \u2018Anyone\u2019d think he was in charge of the party!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well he may as well be,\u2019 said his father. \u2018We couldn\u2019t do this without Hop Sing.\u00a0 I hope you\u2019ve been doing as you\u2019re told!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Pa,\u2019 replied Joe unhappily. \u2018I\u2019ve finished here.\u00a0 Can I go now?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben checked out his youngest son\u2019s appearance. \u2018No you can\u2019t,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s just about time for us to get ready. Come on into the wash house and you can have the first bath while your brothers are finishing up here.\u2019 Joe\u2019s face displayed his displeasure at his father\u2019s instructions. He opened his mouth to protest, but Ben cut him off before he could speak. \u2018Don\u2019t even bother to say it Joseph,\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018The answer is that you do have to have a bath and you do have to have it now.\u2019 He swatted the boy on the backside as he steered him towards the washhouse. \u2018Come on.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he got down from the ladder.\u00a0 He looked around with a great deal of satisfaction at their handiwork. \u2018Well I must say that I agree with Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018It sure looks fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss sighed as he got down from his ladder as well. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s wrong with you?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss sighed again. \u2018Everything,\u2019 he said. \u2018You know I\u2019m not good at these kind of things Adam.\u00a0 I\u2019ll only make a fool of myself.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put his arm around his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018No you won\u2019t,\u2019 he said encouragingly. \u2018You\u2019ve got a great outfit, you\u2019ve practised your dancing until you\u2019re quite good at it, and you know what to say if you get talking to a girl.\u00a0 You can\u2019t go wrong brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Hoss looked mournful. \u2018I don\u2019t look that good,\u2019 he said. \u2018And you know I still keep treading on your toes when we practise dancing. And as for the talking part\u2026well I just know that I\u2019ll forget all them fancy topics you taught me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No you won\u2019t,\u2019 declared Adam. \u2018You just have to learn to relax around girls that\u2019s all. You\u2019ll do fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How do you do it Adam?\u2019 asked Hoss. \u2018You got lots of style around women. What\u2019s ya secret?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018There\u2019s no secret,\u2019 he assured his brother. \u2018You just have to keep your head and be calm that\u2019s all. Remember that no girl is worth getting uptight about.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019ll sure try,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam patted his brother on the back. \u2018That\u2019s the idea!\u2019 he said. \u2018Now let\u2019s go and drag our little brother out of that tub and make use of it ourselves.\u2019\u00a0 The two brothers picked up their ladders and walked over to the barn together.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2018Here, try some of this,\u2019 said Adam, handing Hoss a small blue bottle. Hoss sniffed it suspiciously. \u2018It\u2019s bay rum cologne,\u2019 explained his older brother. \u2018The girls really like it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss splashed a small amount on his neck. \u2018Smells kinda nice,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018I\u2019ll take anything that might help.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled. \u2018I told you that you\u2019ll be fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018Now let me take a look at you.\u2019\u00a0 He took hold of his brother\u2019s shoulders and pushed him back to arm\u2019s length as he appraised him. \u2018Very nice!\u2019 he declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You look mighty fine yaself,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Like a city feller with that fancy suit.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Grandpa bought it for me in Boston,\u2019 said Adam as he splashed some cologne on himself. \u2018Wow Pa!\u2019 He stared into the mirror at his father\u2019s reflection as the man entered the room, resplendent in a dark suit with a silver vest and tie. \u2018You look great!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled at them both. \u2018Well I don\u2019t get the opportunity to dress up very often,\u2019 he said. \u2018I must admit it feels good.\u2019\u00a0 He nodded in satisfaction at his two boys. \u2018Very nice,\u2019 he said. \u2018I think we\u2019ll do the Cartwright family proud tonight.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Speaking of which, where is the youngest member of this happy group?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I sent him downstairs,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018He\u2019s making a fuss about wearing that tie, so I told him to go downstairs and help Hop Sing while he waits for us.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As if on cue, Little Joe came bursting into the room.\u00a0 He was wearing his Sunday pants, a crisp white shirt and the dreaded tie. His curly hair which had only moments before been painstakingly slicked down by his father was already springing up in little tufts around his head as if it had a life of it\u2019s own.\u00a0 \u2018Pa!\u2019 he cried.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph, I thought I told you to go downstairs and help Hop Sing,\u2019 said his father sternly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But he ain\u2019t there!\u2019 declared Joe in a rush.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What do you mean he isn\u2019t there?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018Of course he\u2019s there!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head vehemently. \u2018No he ain\u2019t!\u2019 he said. \u2018He got real angry cause\u2026.\u2019 He hesitated for a moment. \u2018Cause a plate of cakes got spilt, and he went outside. He said he was going to China.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned at the boy. \u2018And did you have anything to do with the spilt cakes?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018It was a accident,\u2019 he said. \u2018I didn\u2019t mean to do it!\u2019\u00a0 He stared at them all defensively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head in frustration. Honestly!\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t need this now!\u00a0 Come on boys, let\u2019s see if we can catch him!\u2019\u00a0 He turned to leave the room and then hesitated. \u2018And you,\u2019 he said, pointing to Little Joe. \u2018I want you to sit on this bed and not move a muscle until I come back for you. Is that understood young man?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Pa,\u2019 said Little Joe, sitting down on the bed quickly.\u00a0 He watched as his father and brothers left the room, then stood up and reached for the blue bottle on Adam\u2019s dresser.\u00a0 He took off the stopper and poured a liberal amount onto his hand before smearing it all over his face, neck and hair.\u00a0 Sniffing the air appreciatively, he replaced the stopper and began to whistle a tune as he bounced on the bed in time to it.<\/p>\n

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\u2018He\u2019s nowhere Pa!\u2019 said Adam urgently as they met up in the front yard again. \u2018One of the horses is missing though.\u00a0 He must have taken off like Joe said.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben ran his fingers through his hair in a frustrated fashion. \u2018We don\u2019t have time to get after him now,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019ll just have to manage without him tonight.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018But Pa!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018He told Joe he\u2019s going back to China!\u00a0 We can\u2019t let him!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Don\u2019t worry son,\u2019 said his father. \u2018You know he says that every week without fail, but he never actually does it.\u00a0 He\u2019ll be staying with his uncle in town.\u00a0 Tomorrow I\u2019ll go in and calm him down and I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll be back by dinner time.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes but how are we going to manage tonight?\u2019 asked Adam anxiously. \u2018We can\u2019t do this without him!\u2019<\/p>\n

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Ben hesitated. \u2018I\u2019ll ask Martha Devlin to round up some of the ladies when they arrive,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m sure they won\u2019t mind serving the food when it\u2019s time.\u00a0 It\u2019s all ready to go.\u2019 He lifted his eyes to the upstairs bedroom window. \u2018In the meantime, I think I\u2019ll just have a few words with the youngest member of this family.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Adam caught at his father\u2019s arm. \u2018Pa, they\u2019re coming!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben glanced up at the bedroom window again. \u2018Hoss go upstairs and get Joseph please and then get organised with the horses. I\u2019ll save my talk with that young man until later.\u2019\u00a0 He put an arm around Adam\u2019s shoulders. \u2018It\u2019ll be fine son.\u00a0 Just relax and enjoy yourself now. It\u2019s going to be a welcome home party to remember.\u2019 He walked forward to greet the first of their guests.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Ben looked around him with a sense of satisfaction.\u00a0 So far everything had gone extremely well, in spite of Hop Sing\u2019s disappearance. The guests had just about all arrived and everyone seemed to be having a good time.\u00a0 After giving Joseph a severe look, Ben had concentrated on making sure that the guests were all settled and made to feel comfortable. He noticed with satisfaction that Adam seemed to be the centre of attention, particularly with all the young ladies who were hovering around him, and the young man had given his father a happy look as he passed.<\/p>\n

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Ben entered the house in time to see Little Joe staggering under a pile of coats into the spare room.\u00a0 He took a few from his son\u2019s arms and followed him into the room as Little Joe threw them onto the bed. Ben gave his youngest son a pat on the shoulder. \u2018Good work son,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father, his face a mixture of tiredness and frustration. \u2018I neva knew coats was so heavy!\u2019 he said with a sigh. \u2018How come everyone wears such big ones?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u2018I think you\u2019re just about done now,\u2019 he said. \u2018Come on into the kitchen and we\u2019ll see if we can help Mrs Devlin.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Joe sighed. \u2018More work!\u2019 he said unhappily. \u2018I thought this was sposed ta be a party?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben sniffed the air. \u2018What is that smell?\u2019 he said thoughtfully. \u2018Someone has really overdone it with the cologne.\u2019\u00a0 He stared down at the boy in front of him. \u2018Have you been using your brother\u2019s bay rum cologne?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at the floor. \u2018Well he said he was gonna let Hoss use it,\u2019 he said. \u2018I didn\u2019t think he\u2019d mind if I did too. I only used a bit.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018A bit!\u2019 he said. \u2018I think you\u2019ve put on more than a bit son.\u00a0 It\u2019s supposed to be used very sparingly.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Never mind.\u00a0 Just make sure you don\u2019t get too close to Adam smelling like that and make sure you ask next time all right?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018OK Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben steered the boy into the dining room where he found Martha Devlin talking to another women. \u2018Need some help Martha?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No need,\u2019 she replied as she motioned into the kitchen. \u2018See for yourself.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben steered Little Joe into the kitchen, anxious to see what the woman meant. He heard a clatter of pots and was surprised to see Hop Sing in the middle of the room, arms flailing as he moved things around. \u2018Out!\u2019 he cried when he saw Ben. \u2018Hop Sing no work when people in kitchen!\u2019 Ben smiled at the cook, pleased to have him back again.\u00a0 He might have known the man wouldn\u2019t let him down. \u2018Little boy stay out of kitchen this time!\u2019 continued Hop Sing. \u2018Out!\u2019\u00a0 He glared at Little Joe and pointed his finger at the boy, who slunk behind his father and peeked out at Hop Sing silently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pulled his son back into the dining room and said with a serious expression on his face. \u2018You heard him.\u00a0 If you don\u2019t want to cause any more trouble, then stay out of there young man!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head. \u2018I sure will!\u2019 he said. \u2018Do I havta do more coats now Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No.\u00a0 I think everyone is just about here now. You go off and have some fun while you can.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe walked away, shaking his head. \u2018Fun!\u2019 he muttered. \u2018How am I sposed ta have fun with a bunch of grownups?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben chuckled to himself as he looked around. At that moment he spied Hoss standing talking to Betsy-Sue in the corner and wondered if Adam\u2019s tuition was working for him.\u00a0 He sidled up to his son quietly and listened from behind the stairs.<\/p>\n

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\u2018You look right nice tonight Miss Betsy-Sue,\u2019 said Hoss with a silly grin.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Thank you Hoss,\u2019 she replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Um\u2026ya smell nice too.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Thank you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Um\u2026what do ya like to do?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018I beg your pardon?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018I mean \u2026. well\u2026 hobbies and such. You know.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018I see. Well I like lots of things.\u00a0 How about you?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Hoss swallowed. \u2018I like\u2026. I mean\u2026.well\u2026.um\u2026 branding?\u2019 Betsy-Sue made a face. \u2018Um\u2026. I like horses too,\u2019 said Hoss, trying again. \u2018Do you like to ride?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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The girl smiled at him. \u2018I certainly do!\u2019 she said. There was silence for a moment. \u2018I\u2019ve heard you\u2019ve got some nice horses here on The Ponderosa,\u2019 Betsy-Sue said meaningfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 replied Hoss. There was another silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Do you think I could see some of them?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah.\u2019 There was another silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Now?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018In the dark?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why not? You\u2019ve got a lamp in the barn don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why sure. Um\u2026 OK.\u2019 Hoss led her to the door as Ben smiled. It seemed like Betsy-Sue was determined to get to know Hoss tonight.\u00a0 He just hoped his son could cope with the girl\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned to see Adam standing behind him. \u2018He seems to be doing OK, don\u2019t you think Pa?\u2019 his son asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018He\u2019ll be fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018How about you son?\u00a0 You seem to be having a good time so far.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled. \u2018I sure am,\u2019 he said happily.\u00a0 \u2018I\u2019d forgotten how many nice people live around here.\u2019\u00a0 His eyes wandered over to where a group of young ladies were clustered near the doorway smiling at him. \u2018The only one I haven\u2019t met so far is Joe\u2019s teacher.\u00a0 That Abigail Jones.\u00a0 You haven\u2019t seen her have you Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Ben shook his head. \u2018No I haven\u2019t yet son.\u00a0 But don\u2019t worry, she\u2019ll be sure to find you when she arrives.\u2019\u00a0 He tried to hide a smile. \u2018Come on.\u00a0 There are a few more people arriving.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He led his son over to the front door and began to greet their guests again with Adam by his side.\u00a0 Suddenly he heard a strident voice on the porch. \u2018Why Mr Cartwright!\u00a0 How lovely to see you!\u2019\u00a0 Ben looked up to see Miss Abigail Jones in all her splendour advancing upon them and he glanced over at Adam who winced at the sight of the angular woman in her bright red and green dress that was covered with blue bows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Miss Abigail,\u2019 said Ben politely. \u2018I\u2019d like you to meet my eldest son Adam. I don\u2019t believe the two of you have met yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abigail took Adam\u2019s arm, giving him a toothy grin and brushing close against him as she replied. \u2018No we haven\u2019t,\u2019 she gushed. \u2018Although I must say that I feel like I know you already Adam. Young Joseph has told me so much about you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed as he pulled away from the woman. \u2018Has he?\u2019 he said lamely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 gushed the schoolteacher. \u2018I believe we share an interest in the Classics and fine literature.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She batted her eyelashes at him. \u2018Young Joseph has also said that you have a fine singing voice.\u00a0 I\u2019ve been told I have a great deal of talent in that area as well.\u2019\u00a0 She clung onto his arm possessively and pulled him toward her.\u00a0 Adam gave his father a beseeching look. \u2018How about we find a quiet place to get acquainted?\u2019 said Abigail as she pulled on Adam\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tried to disengage himself. \u2018I\u2019m sorry ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I\u2019m rather occupied at the moment greeting my guests.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abigail let go of him. \u2018Of course,\u2019 she said with a disappointed tone in her voice. \u2018Well when you\u2019ve finished just come and look for me.\u2019\u00a0 She gave him another toothy grin. \u2018I\u2019ll be waiting for you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed again as he watched the woman walk away from him. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he said in a whisper. \u2018You could have told me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Told you what son?\u2019 asked his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his father a disgusted look. \u2018You know!\u2019 he said. \u2018What she\u2019s really like!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Isn\u2019t she your type of woman?\u2019 asked Ben innocently. \u2018It sounds to me like you both have a great deal in common.\u00a0 Besides\u2026you told me that you were old enough to work out your own tastes in women.\u00a0 Remember?\u2019\u00a0 He turned to greet another guest, leaving Adam to stare at his father\u2019s back in a frustrated fashion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think I\u2019ll go and have a few words with young Joseph,\u2019 said Adam between his gritted teeth as he searched the area for his youngest brother angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2018He\u2019s beautiful Hoss,\u2019 said Betsy-Sue as she patted the chestnut. \u2018Such a fine animal.\u2019\u00a0 She drew close to him and breathed heavily into his ear. \u2018I do so admire big strong animals,\u2019 she said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss drew away from her. \u2018That\u2019s nice,\u2019 he said, not knowing what else to say. He swallowed as he glanced over to the door of the barn. \u2018Don\u2019t you think we should be getting back to the party now?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Betsy-Sue drew even closer to him. \u2018What\u2019s your hurry?\u2019 she asked. \u2018Don\u2019t you like being with me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed again. \u2018Um\u2026. well yeah.\u00a0 Of course I do,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s just that\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I think we might be missed that\u2019s all.\u00a0 It kinda ain\u2019t\u2026well it ain\u2019t proper fer us to be out here like this all alone.\u00a0 Don\u2019t ya think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Betsy-Sue put her arms around his waist. \u2018Don\u2019t be silly Hoss,\u2019 she said. \u2018Who\u2019s to know?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tried to extradite himself from the girls\u2019 grasp. \u2018Well my Pa might notice,\u2019 he said. \u2018He wouldn\u2019t approve.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Approve of what?\u2019 she asked as she lightly kissed him. \u2018Surely you\u2019re not scared of your Pa are you?\u00a0 A big strong boy like you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stared at her with wide eyes. \u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. \u2018I mean\u2026 no ma\u2019am\u2026. I mean\u2026 Oh Lordy!\u2019\u00a0 His eyes got bigger as she planted another kiss on his cheek and he blushed a bright shade of red.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Betsy-Sue smiled up at him. \u2018I do like you Hoss.\u00a0 I hope you know that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Would you like to take me inside to dance?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t like\u2026. I mean I ain\u2019t much good at dancing,\u2019 he said, still blushing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That doesn\u2019t matter.\u00a0 I\u2019ll show you how,\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ve been practising,\u2019 he said as they left the barn. \u2018Oh. Hi Adam!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes widened as he saw his brother coming out of the barn with the young girl hanging on his arm. He hesitated for a moment and then said,\u2019 Um\u2026 have you seen Little Joe Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Little Joe? No. What\u2019s he done now?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Never mind,\u2019 said Adam as he glanced around. \u2018I\u2019ll find him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shrugged as his brother strode away.\u00a0 \u2018Come on,\u2019 he said as he patted Betsy-Sue\u2019s arm. \u2018Let\u2019s try some of that fancy dancing.\u2019\u00a0 He walked happily into the house, thinking that maybe this woman thing wasn\u2019t so bad after all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam entered the kitchen and to see Hop Sing busily piling food onto large platters. \u2018Have you seen Little Joe Hop Sing?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No seen little boy.\u00a0 If Hop Sing see little boy Hop Sing hit on head! Little boy always cause trouble!\u2019 replied the cook angrily. \u2018Much to do!\u00a0 Get out of kitchen now!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam exited quickly, knowing well how difficult Hop Sing could be when under pressure.\u00a0 He preferred to keep his distance from the man when he was like this. He re-entered the dining room and saw that the dancing had begun.\u00a0 The musicians were in fine form and he was amazed to see that Hoss and Betsy-Sue were one of the first couples onto the dance floor. Hoss was doing quite well, although he did notice that Betsy-Sue made sure that she held him at a considerable distance in deference to his twirling feet.\u00a0 Adam gave a small chuckle and then stopped as he heard an unmistakable giggle from under the table.\u00a0 He glanced under the tablecloth to see his youngest brother sitting cross-legged on the floor as he inspected the dancers in front of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe looked up happily and grinned at Adam. \u2018Hoss sure looks funny don\u2019t ya think Adam?\u2019 he said with another giggle. \u2018His arms is all over the place.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pulled the young boy out from under the table and onto his feet. \u2018I\u2019ll give you all over the place!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018Just what have you been telling your teacher about me?\u2019\u00a0 He sniffed the air suspiciously. \u2018And what is that smell?\u2019\u00a0 His eyes narrowed. \u2018You\u2019ve been stealing my cologne haven\u2019t you?\u2019\u00a0 He shook the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Aw come on Adam!\u2019 replied Little Joe as he tried to wriggle away. \u2018I was only borrowing some!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Some?\u2019 said Adam. \u2018You smell as if you\u2019ve tipped the whole bottle over yourself! Who told you that you could have any of it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe wriggled again. \u2018Let me go!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll let you go when you\u2019ve come clean about what you said to Abigail Jones!\u2019 said Adam, his temper beginning to rise. \u2018Tell me what you said!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I only told her bout all the stuff you like,\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018All the boring books and music and stuff that you\u2019ve been talking bout with Pa that\u2019s all.\u00a0 She wanted to know what kind of woman you liked, so I said\u2026..\u2019 he clamped his hand over his mouth as he realised what he was saying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You said what?\u2019 Adam gave his little brother another shake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I only told her that you were looking forward to meeting her and that you said that she sounded like your kind of woman.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You what?!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well you did!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took a deep breath. \u2018You weren\u2019t supposed to repeat that to her!\u2019 he hissed. \u2018Especially as now I find out what she looks like!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes widened. \u2018What do ya mean?\u00a0 I told you she dresses real fine with bows and stuff.\u00a0 Don\u2019t you like that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shuddered as a mental picture of the plain woman in her garish dress flashed across his mind. \u2018You had no\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam!\u2019 said a shrill voice behind him and he turned to see Miss Abigail smiling at him broadly. \u2018I see you\u2019ve finished greeting your guests now. Hello there Joseph.\u2019\u00a0 She gave the boy a stern look. \u2018Isn\u2019t it about time you were in bed?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed as he backed away from the couple. \u2018No ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. \u2018My Pa said I can stay up later tonight.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019m sure you can find something to do,\u2019 replied Abigail. \u2018Your brother and I have a lot to talk about.\u2019\u00a0 She held onto Adam\u2019s arm in a determined fashion. \u2018Do you like dancing Adam?\u2019 she asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tried to look polite. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said shortly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d love to!\u2019 Abigail declared as she pulled him onto the dance floor.\u00a0 Joe giggled as he regained his place under the table again.\u00a0 It seemed to him that he had just found a very valuable weapon in the form of his brother that might come in handy for the future.\u00a0 School wasn\u2019t Joe\u2019s favourite place to be by any stretch of the imagination and anything he could find to make Miss Abigail Jones feel kindly towards him and perhaps soften in her attitude to disciplining him would be useful.\u00a0 Older brother Adam might well prove to be a powerful piece of ammunition in that regard.\u00a0 He settled himself contentedly on the floor again.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2018Thank You Hop Sing,\u2019 said Ben as he surveyed the table in front of him. \u2018Everything looks wonderful.\u2019\u00a0 The table contained so many delicacies that he could almost hear it groaning under the weight of the food.\u00a0 Hop Sing grunted at him and turned towards the kitchen again, but Ben wasn\u2019t fooled by the man\u2019s curt demeanour.\u00a0 He, more than anyone, knew that it was the cook\u2019s way of masking his own feelings.\u00a0 Hop Sing was proud of the Cartwright family and would have done anything to make sure that Adam\u2019s party was a success, and would have felt a good deal of satisfaction at knowing that people were enjoying themselves.\u00a0 And enjoying themselves they certainly were!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked around appreciatively.\u00a0 His house hadn\u2019t been so full for many years and the happy sound of so many people enjoying themselves did his heart good to hear it.\u00a0 It was almost like the old days when he and Marie had entertained so often.\u00a0 He sighed as the thought of his late wife crossed his mind and his eyes misted over for a moment.\u00a0 Marie would have enjoyed this night so much and she would have been so proud of all their boys.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s eyes travelled over to where Hoss was standing with Betsy-Sue as they ate.\u00a0 He seemed to be engrossed in the girl\u2019s conversation and was happily listening to her while he was concentrating on the plate of food that he held.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes sought out Adam next and he stifled another chuckle as he saw his eldest son wedged between the wall and the formidable figure of Miss Abigail Jones who was talking non-stop at him.\u00a0 Adam wore a resigned expression as he stood fiddling with his tie and listening to the woman, almost like a small animal at the mercy of a larger and more ferocious one.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced around looking for his youngest son, suddenly aware of how late it was getting.\u00a0 It occurred to him that he hadn\u2019t seen Joseph in quite a while and he wondered where the youngster could be.\u00a0 Probably hiding somewhere trying to avoid being sent to bed, he thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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At that moment a quick movement caught his eye and he was startled to see a small hand appear from under the table and disappear just as swiftly as it grasped hold of a cake.\u00a0 He pulled up the tablecloth and raised his eyebrows to see his youngest son sitting on the floor surrounded by a variety of tasty goodies, sampling his latest acquisition. Little Joe looked up at his father guiltily and tried to smile as he swallowed the cream cake that he was stuffing into his mouth. \u2018Hi Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned at him. \u2018Hi yourself,\u2019 he said. \u2018Are you sure you have enough to eat there?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded as he looked at the cakes and sandwiches on the floor. \u2018I think so,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I could do with a drink.\u00a0 It\u2019s kinda hard to get one from down here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben reached in and pulled the boy to his feet. \u2018Is it absolutely necessary to eat under there?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Look at the mess you\u2019ve made! Why couldn\u2019t you come up here and eat like everyone else?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Cause I thought you might send me upstairs if ya saw me,\u2019 explained the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Which is exactly what I\u2019m going to do,\u2019 he said as he patted him on the behind. \u2018Now get!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wiped the cream away from his mouth with his shirtsleeve and Ben wondered how the boy could have possibly become so dirty in such a short space of time when he hadn\u2019t even been outside.\u00a0 His shirt, which had started off being so crisp and white now seemed to be an off-white colour and was spotted with stains of various foods. His hair was in disarray, the unruly curls springing up all over his head and his face was smeared with traces of food and dirt.\u00a0\u00a0 Ben sighed.\u00a0 The boy just seemed to attract dirt as he attracted trouble\u2026with very little effort and a great deal of ease.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Aw Pa!\u2019 said Little Joe. \u2018It ain\u2019t late!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s late enough for you young man,\u2019 said his father sternly. \u2018Go upstairs please!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe put on his best pleading look. \u2018But I ain\u2019t finished yet!\u2019 he said. \u2018There\u2019s still lots to eat and drink… and\u2026.\u2019 His eyes travelled over to Hoss again. \u2018And things to do,\u2019 he finished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben swatted him again on the backside. \u2018I said upstairs Joseph!\u2019 he repeated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy sighed and dragged his feet as he headed towards the stairs.\u00a0 Ben watched him go with a grin and then turned as he heard a voice behind him. \u2018Wonderful party Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned to see Dr Paul Martin standing behind him. \u2018Paul!\u2019 he said with a smile as he shook the man\u2019s hand. \u2018I\u2019m so glad you could come!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So am I,\u2019 replied the doctor. \u2018I\u2019m never sure if I\u2019ll be free for socialising or if someone is going to need me at the last minute and stop me from coming.\u00a0 Adam looks well.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced across at the young man who was still hemmed in against the wall by Abigail.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Although I was just thinking of rescuing him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul laughed. \u2018He sure looks as if he would appreciate it,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Ben strode over to his eldest son, who watched his approach thankfully. \u2018Excuse me Miss Abigail,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018But I need to borrow my son for a few moments.\u2019\u00a0 He took Adam by the arm and steered him into the centre of the room as he cleared his voice. \u2018Excuse me everyone,\u2019 he began and waited while the room hushed and everyone turned to him expectantly. \u2018First of all I\u2019d like to thank you all for coming this evening.\u2019\u00a0 There was a general murmur of approval at his words. \u2018And secondly I\u2019d like to take this opportunity to formally welcome home my eldest son Adam.\u00a0 Many of you remember him as the boy who left for Boston some four years ago and he stands before us now as a young man of whom I\u2019m very proud.\u2019\u00a0 He lifted his glass. \u2018To my son Adam,\u2019 he said, with shining eyes. \u2018May he stay with us now for many happy years to come.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was clapping and voices raised in agreement as many glasses were lifted to toast the young man.\u00a0 Ben put his arm around his son\u2019s shoulder and pulled him close, his eyes saying all that was in his heart. \u2018Thanks Pa,\u2019 said Adam, his own eyes misting over as he stared into his father\u2019s eyes happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Now let\u2019s get back to the eating and dancing!\u2019 announced Ben and watched as everyone happily did just that. He turned to Adam again. \u2018If I were you I\u2019d head that way,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll head off Miss Abigail for you son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u2018Gee thanks Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I could do with a break from her.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to make a hasty retreat and then turned. \u2018And Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes son?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Forget what I said earlier tonight. I think I could still do with your help when it comes to women.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben chuckled as he turned towards the schoolteacher who was trying to pass him. \u2018Miss Abigail!\u2019 he said. \u2018Come over here and let me introduce you to a few people you haven\u2019t met yet!\u2019\u00a0 He steered her in the opposite direction, seeing with satisfaction that Adam had escaped onto the front porch where a group of young ladies waited for him.<\/p>\n

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XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Hoss and Betsy-Sue sat on a couple of chairs and watched the dancers in front of them. \u2018I\u2019ve had such a wonderful time tonight Hoss,\u2019 said Betsy-Sue, giving him a lovely smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So have I,\u2019 said Hoss, thinking how strange it was that he meant it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It would be nice to see you again some time,\u2019 she said meaningfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Betsy-Sue frowned. \u2018Well?\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Betsy-Sue sighed. \u2018Well\u2026could I see you again?\u2019 she asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I guess so.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was silence for a few moments. \u2018When?\u2019 she asked finally when it was clear that Hoss wasn\u2019t going to say anything else.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh. Um\u2026how about\u2026um \u2026 do you like to ride?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled at him. \u2018I sure do!\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well how about\u2026 um\u2026 how about we go for a ride then?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d love to Hoss!\u00a0 How lovely of you to suggest it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned at her. There was another silence. \u2018When?\u2019 asked Betsy-Sue.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018When will we go riding?\u2019 she asked patiently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How about next Saturday?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018That would be lovely.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 grin became wider and his eyes widened as Betsy-Sue leant forward and kissed him lightly on the lips. As their lips parted, Hoss heard a sound behind him and he glanced up to see his little brother grinning down at them from above, where he had apparently been hiding behind the Indian blanket that was hanging from the landing of the staircase.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss and Betsy-Sue are kissing!\u2019 declared Little Joe delightedly. \u2018They\u2019re in love!\u2019\u00a0 He grinned at them both again and began to make small kissing noises with his mouth as he rolled his eyes at them and giggled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood up, his face red from the kiss and the embarrassment of being caught by Little Joe. \u2018I\u2019m gonna pound ya little brother!\u2019 he declared. \u2018You\u2019re dead!\u2019 He reached up to grab hold of his younger brother, but only succeeded in pulling the blanket down from the banister instead and tipping over his chair with a bang.\u00a0 A small nightshirt-clad figure scampered up the stairs as everyone in the room stopped and stared at Hoss who was by now covered with the blanket, his arms flailing widely as he tried to get out from under it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What is going on here?\u2019 asked Ben as he pulled the blanket off his middle son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s that pest Little Joe!\u2019 spluttered Hoss. \u2018He\u2019s been spying on me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tried to keep a composed look as he smiled at his guests and waved them away. As the music began again, he said quietly to Hoss, \u2018Leave him to me.\u00a0 You go on outside son and forget about your brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss led Betsy-Sue away as Ben headed up the stairs, determined to give his youngest son a piece of his mind.\u00a0 As he entered Joseph\u2019s darkened bedroom, he heard the muffled giggles of the boy under his blankets. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 he said. The giggles stopped. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 he repeated. \u2018I know you\u2019re awake. Answer me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Pa?\u2019 a small voice answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come out from under those covers please.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A small tousled head appeared from under the blankets.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Did I not tell you to go to bed?\u2019 asked Ben severely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No you didn\u2019t,\u2019 replied Joe defensively. \u2018You just told me to go upstairs is all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took a breath. \u2018You know what I meant,\u2019 he said. \u2018You had no right to embarrass your brother like that Joseph. Now I expect you to stay in this bed and not get out of it again this evening.\u00a0 Is that understood?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Pa.\u2019 The tousled head disappeared under the blankets again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben left the room, being careful to shut the door behind him.\u00a0 He made a mental note to check on this young scallywag of his before too long, to ensure that he was indeed asleep.\u00a0 Where Joseph was concerned, Ben had learned from bitter experience that you could never be too sure of anything.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he rejoined the party he was pleased to see Roy Coffee entering the room. \u2018Roy!\u2019 he said. \u2018I didn\u2019t think you\u2019d be able to get here!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy shook his friend\u2019s hand. \u2018Well it\u2019s kinda quiet in town,\u2019 he said. \u2018So I thought it was safe to leave Clem in charge for a bit while I came out here.\u00a0 I can\u2019t stay long though.\u2019\u00a0 He looked around. \u2018Seems like the whole district is here.\u00a0 No wonder town is so quiet.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come and have a drink,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Here.\u2019\u00a0 He handed the Sheriff a glass and pushed him towards the door.\u00a0 \u2018Let\u2019s go outside away from everyone for a while and talk.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two men went onto the porch and sat down. \u2018Nice night for it,\u2019 said Roy as he stared up at the clear sky. \u2018Seems like a right good party Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018I think everyone is enjoying themselves. It\u2019s about time The Ponderosa dressed herself up for a celebration.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam sure seems to have grown up a heap,\u2019 said Roy as they spied the young man standing near the corral with a young lady. \u2018So does Hoss too, now that I think about it.\u2019\u00a0 He motioned towards Ben\u2019s middle son who was walking with Betsy-Sue near the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018They both are,\u2019 said Ben with a sigh. \u2018Before I know it they\u2019ll probably both be thinking of going off and starting lives of their own.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well you\u2019ve still got young Joe for a few years to come,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018It\u2019ll be a while before that youngster is off your hands.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018Sometimes I wonder if I\u2019ll live that long,\u2019 he said. \u2018That boy is going to be the death of me Roy.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy laughed. \u2018What\u2019s he done now?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing in particular,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018Just being Joseph that\u2019s all.\u2019\u00a0 He turned as he heard a noise behind him. \u2018Oh. Hello Miss Abigail.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The schoolteacher smiled at him anxiously. \u2018Have you seen Adam, Mr Cartwright?\u2019 she asked. \u2018I seem to have lost him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s just\u2026\u2019 began Roy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s just gone inside I think,\u2019 interrupted Ben with a look at his friend. \u2018You\u2019d best look for him in there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you.\u2019\u00a0 The woman retreated again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shrugged at Roy and smiled. \u2018It is Adam\u2019s party after all,\u2019 he said. \u2018I think he deserves to enjoy it don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I guess so,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018She sure is a determined one ain\u2019t she?\u00a0 So Adam is her latest target eh?\u00a0 Poor youngster.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I think Joseph may have had something to do with it,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018That boy seems to have a finger in everything that goes on around here.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy chuckled. \u2018Well if I were Adam I\u2019d stay away from Miss Abigail Jones,\u2019 he said. \u2018The last young man she got her hooks into ended up having to move to San Francisco just to get away from her.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh I\u2019m sure it\u2019s nothing more than a passing crush,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018In a few weeks she won\u2019t even remember who he is.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t know about that,\u2019 said Roy pleasantly. \u2018Once that woman gets her mind made up\u2026 well, I have a feeling that the Cartwrights might be talking about this relationship for a good while to come.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben chuckled. \u2018I hope not!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben descended the stairs again with a smile.\u00a0 Joseph was finally asleep and he felt that he could now relax and enjoy himself without the worry of what that youngest son of his might be up to when he wasn\u2019t looking. He smiled as George and Martha Phillips came up to him. \u2018Wonderful party Ben,\u2019 said George. \u2018Thank you!\u00a0 We have to be going now though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So soon?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Afraid so,\u2019 said Martha. \u2018We can\u2019t leave the youngsters alone too late. See you in church tomorrow.\u2019 They walked away to say goodbye to other friends.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben left the house and stood on the front porch as he watched a few people drifting away to their buggies. \u2018Thank you for coming!\u2019 he shouted. They waved back happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

More people began to leave the house and for the next half hour he was caught up in saying his goodbyes and listening to their thank yous. He noticed Hoss putting Betsy-Sue into her carriage and waving goodbye to her. \u2018Have a good night son?\u2019 he asked as he came to stand beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I sure did Pa,\u2019 replied Hoss. \u2018That Betsy-Sue is a right nice girl. We\u2019re going riding next Saturday.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted his son on the back. \u2018I\u2019m pleased,\u2019 he said. \u2018I told you it wasn\u2019t that hard.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss smiled back at him. \u2018Reckon it wasn\u2019t,\u2019 he acknowledged. \u2018Seems like Adam had a good time too.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated his brother standing by the barn with a girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Who is that?\u2019 asked Ben, peering into the darkness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think its Mary Read.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh.\u00a0 I was afraid for a moment there it might be Abigail Jones,\u2019 said Ben with a twinkle in his eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss frowned at him. \u2018Ya ain\u2019t serious Pa,\u2019 he protested. \u2018I caught a look at her and she\u2019s awful!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just kidding son,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018Come on.\u00a0 Let\u2019s go inside and help Hop Sing clean up a bit.\u2019 Father and son put their arms around each other and walked into the house again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben approached the dining room table for breakfast and frowned to see a couple of legs sticking out from under it. \u2018Hop Sing?\u2019 he said warily as he noticed the slippered feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing\u2019s head emerged from beneath the tablecloth and he frowned. \u2018Clean up under table!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018Plenty mess left by little boy!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben helped him to his feet and noticed the dustpan full of cake and sandwich crumbs in the man\u2019s hand. \u2018Here,\u2019 he said. \u2018Let me do it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing shook the man\u2019s hand away. \u2018All done!\u2019 he declared as he turned towards the kitchen again. \u2018No one ask Hop Sing about party. Plenty work!\u2019\u00a0 He uttered a few more Chinese phrases as he left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Is he still carrying on?\u2019 asked Adam as he came over to stand next to his father. \u2018I thought he\u2019d have given up on that by now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He enjoys it,\u2019 said his father, helping himself to a cup of coffee from the pot on the sideboard. \u2018How are you feeling after last night?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Great!\u2019 said Adam as he sat at the table. \u2018What\u2019s for breakfast?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Leftovers I think,\u2019 said Ben as he sat down next to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hot diggety!\u2019 said Hoss as he came to join them. \u2018I hope there\u2019s plenty!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How can you possibly be hungry after everything you ate last night?\u2019 asked Adam. He turned as Little Joe reached the bottom of the stairs with a thump as he jumped the last three in one bound. \u2018Do you have to do that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What?\u2019 asked Joe as he slid into his chair.\u00a0 He grinned at them all. \u2018What did I miss last night after I went to sleep?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wouldn\u2019t ask if I were you Joseph,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Neither of your brothers are too happy with you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stared at his father. \u2018Why? What did I do?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You were spying on me for a start!\u2019 said Hoss angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And you were interfering in my love life!\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hop Sing is angry with you too after the mess you made under the table,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe\u2019s face became wary. \u2018Oh,\u2019 he said. \u2018What\u2019s for breakfast?\u2019 he said, trying to change the subject.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Leftovers,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But I thought we was gonna take the leftovers with us when we go fishing this afternoon Pa?\u2019 asked his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You honestly expect to go fishing after what you got up to last night, do you?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah shortshanks. You certainly don\u2019t deserve it,\u2019 added Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well look at it this way boys,\u2019 said their father casually. \u2018If Joseph and I don\u2019t go fishing, he\u2019ll be here at home with both of you all day.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss exchanged a glance. \u2018He wasn\u2019t that bad,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 agreed Hoss. \u2018You take him Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Joseph, go and ask Hop Sing to pack some of those leftovers for us please.\u00a0 We\u2019ll go straight from the Church to the lake.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure Pa!\u2019 said Little Joe happily and slid off his seat again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well come on boys,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018We don\u2019t want to be late for Church do we?\u2019 He got up from the table and surveyed the mess around them. \u2018Well it seems like there\u2019s a lot of work ahead of someone to get this house back to normal after the party,\u2019 he said. \u2018Seems a shame that I won\u2019t be around to help you both today.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Huh?\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben patted both his sons on the back. \u2018Don\u2019t worry boys,\u2019 he said. \u2018Hop Sing is sure to give you both instructions about what\u2019s to be done. Joseph!\u2019 he called. \u2018Hurry up with that food!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He strode out of the house, leaving his two sons open-mouthed behind him.\u00a0 \u2018I think we\u2019ve just been had,\u2019 said Adam, shaking his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think you\u2019re right,\u2019 agreed Hoss. \u2018How did that happen?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a crash behind them in the kitchen and Hop Sing\u2019s shrill voice could be heard yelling. \u2018Little boy get out of kitchen!\u00a0 Make plenty mess to clean up!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned at Hoss. \u2018I think we\u2019d better get out of here ourselves,\u2019 he said. \u2018We wouldn\u2019t want to be late for church.\u2019\u00a0 He put an arm around his brother. \u2018After all, Betsy-Sue might be there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned back at him as they went out to the porch. \u2018Not to mention Miss Abigail,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned. \u2018Don\u2019t even think about it brother!\u2019 he said as they watched Little Joe running to the buggy, followed by an irate Hop Sing who was waving his arms in all directions while uttering a string of Chinese phrases. \u2018That\u2019s one woman I\u2019d like to forget. With any luck she\u2019s set her sights on someone else by now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wouldn\u2019t count on it,\u2019 said Hoss, chuckling as he got up onto the buggy and pushed Little Joe to one side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hitched the team forward and the four Cartwrights lurched forward towards church, leaving Hop Sing still waving his arms around behind them. \u2018No one ask Hop Sing about party!\u2019 the cook muttered as he headed back towards the house. \u2018Plenty clean up work to do now!\u2019 He closed the kitchen door with a bang.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0Ben decides to give Adam a welcome home party when he returns from college, but the preparations for it put a strain on everyone<\/p>\n

Rated: K (12,480 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":1229,"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_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1009,23,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2034","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-brothers","category-drama","category-prequels","wpcat-1009-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-30-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1433,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":5454,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5454","url_meta":{"origin":2034,"position":0},"title":"Autumn’s Surprise (by deansgirl)","author":"deansgirl","date":"October 30, 2012","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Autumn is setting around the Ponderosa and with it comes a very dear and long awaited surprise.\u00a0 \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (1,180 words) Autumn Series, links to all the stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Chaps and Spurs"","block_context":{"text":"Chaps and Spurs","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=39"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":15656,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15656","url_meta":{"origin":2034,"position":1},"title":"Home Is Never Far Away (by Hart4Ben)","author":"Hart4Ben","date":"July 2, 2017","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Ben and Adam's summertime musings following Kenny and Susan Clarke's stay at the Ponderosa. 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