{"id":2072,"date":"2009-09-06T16:17:01","date_gmt":"2009-09-06T20:17:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2072"},"modified":"2026-03-07T18:57:32","modified_gmt":"2026-03-07T23:57:32","slug":"learning-a-lesson","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2072","title":{"rendered":"Learning a Lesson (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Ben is determined to teach Joe a lesson when he gets into trouble in town, but will the youngest Cartwright survive his punishment?<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K (14,690 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Learning a Lesson<\/strong><\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright tried not to let his thoughts intrude upon his facial expression as the girl sidled up next to him.<\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Joe,\u2019 she said with a huge smile. \u2018I was hoping to see you here today.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe forced a smile on his face. \u2018Oh hi Susan,\u2019 he said. \u2018I didn\u2019t see you there.\u2019<\/p>\n

She continued to smile at him. \u2018I didn\u2019t think you did,\u2019 she said. \u2018Otherwise you would have stopped.\u2019<\/p>\n

He forced his false smile to linger on his lips. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said and tipped his hat. \u2018Scuze me.\u00a0 I have work to get done.\u2019 He turned and strode along the sidewalk, eager to get as much distance as possible in between them.<\/p>\n

\u2018What kind of work?\u2019 asked Susan as she attempted to keep up with him.<\/p>\n

\u2018Supplies,\u2019 he said shortly. \u2018See you!\u2019\u00a0 He ducked under the hitching rail and practically ran across the street in the direction of the Cartwright buckboard which was hitched outside the Feed and Grain store. Susan watched him go with a sigh. Joe Cartwright was such a wonderful boy!\u00a0 So handsome and manly!\u00a0 She sighed again as she closed her eyes and allowed her thoughts to wander a little as she dreamt of his arms around her waist and his body pressed close to hers.\u00a0 One day she would make it happen!<\/p>\n

Hoss looked up in surprise as his younger brother appeared next to him and began to lift a grain sack. \u2018What are you doing here?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Joe glared at him. \u2018Loading supplies!\u00a0 Ain\u2019t that what we\u2019re supposed to be doing?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well yeah\u2026but when have you ever done what you\u2019re supposed ta?\u2019 he asked. He grinned as he looked across the street and noticed Susan standing there looking at his brother like a moonsick calf. \u2018Oh I see!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018What do you see?\u2019 asked Joe angrily.<\/p>\n

\u2018Susan,\u2019 his brother said simply as if that explained everything as indeed it did. \u2018She\u2019s after ya again huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked at the sack of grain as if he wanted to punch it. \u2018Yeah!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018I\u2019m sick and tired of her carrying on all the time.\u00a0 I can\u2019t come into town at all lately without her hanging around me.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well why don\u2019t you just go out with her and get it over with?\u2019 asked Hoss as he shouldered another large sack. \u2018Put her out of her misery so ta speak.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah right!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018It\u2019d only make it worse.\u00a0 Sides, nothing would make me take her out!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Why not? She seems like a nice girl,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018And you\u2019ve known each other for such a long time. Since you was at school together when you was kids.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah, well thank goodness I don\u2019t hafta sit in a classroom with her anymore!\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018You have no idea what it was like having to sit there all day with her staring at me all the time.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Aw Joe! She just likes ya is all,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Can\u2019t blame a girl fer that can ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u2018Well of course not,\u2019 he said. \u2018I know I\u2019m real popular with girls. They just can\u2019t help themselves with someone as handsome as me after all!\u2019 Hoss gave his brother a painful look and reached over to lift up his hat as he stared at his head. \u2018What are you looking at?\u2019 asked Joe indignantly.<\/p>\n

\u2018Just checking little brother!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I reckon we\u2019ll hafta buy you a new hat pretty soon if your head gets any bigger.\u2019\u00a0 He plonked Joe\u2019s hat down on his head again, none too gently.<\/p>\n

\u2018I only meant that I don\u2019t blame her for liking me!\u2019 Joe declared as he straightened his hat up. \u2018But it doesn\u2019t mean I hafta like her back does it?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I don\u2019t see why ya don\u2019t,\u2019 said his brother. \u2018Like I said before, she\u2019s a real nice girl.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe made a face. \u2018Yeah but have you taken a look at her?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked across the street without seeming to stare at the girl. \u2018What\u2019s wrong with her?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u2018Older brother you have no idea about women!\u2019 he said. \u2018She\u2019s short for a start and about as wide as she is high.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing wrong with that!\u2019 declared Hoss as he glanced down at his own huge girth.<\/p>\n

\u2018And those freckles!\u2019 continued Joe. \u2018You woulda thought she\u2019d grown out of em by now.\u00a0 Not to mention her hair.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s wrong with her hair?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s right with it?\u2019\u00a0 said Joe indignantly. \u2018Pulled back like that she looks like a schoolmarm!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Guess she does that cause it\u2019s so curly,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I must admit that her eyeglasses don\u2019t help though.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Now you\u2019re getting it brother,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018She\u2019s just a disaster! No dress sense either.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss looked puzzled. \u2018Hey how come you know so much about what women wear Joe?\u2019 he asked. \u2018How do ya know if they\u2019ve got good\u2026.. whatcha call it \u2026 good dress sense or not?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sighed and put his arm around his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018You just know Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018And believe me, Susan Watkins doesn\u2019t have any.\u2019 He noticed while he\u2019d been talking that Hoss had finished loading all the sacks, so he smacked his hands together. \u2018How about a drink brother?\u2019 he said. \u2018I believe it\u2019s your turn to pay?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss glared at him. \u2018You think it\u2019s always my turn to pay!\u2019 he said. \u2018And we ain\u2019t going anywhere near the saloon today Joseph! You know that Pa\u2019s expecting these supplies home before dinner.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe pulled another face. \u2018Oh come on Hoss!\u2019 he said. \u2018One drink!\u00a0 What\u2019s it gonna hurt?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss pointed a finger at his brother. \u2018I told you we\u2019re not having one!\u2019 he said. \u2018Now you stay here while I go and get the mail and then we\u2019ll be on our way.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe saluted smartly. \u2018Yes sir!\u2019 he said cheekily. \u2018Am I allowed to stand at ease while you do it sir?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t give me any of your smart mouth today,\u2019 said Hoss meaningfully as he strode across the street. \u2018I\u2019ll be back soon, so make sure you\u2019re right there ready when I get back here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe watched his brother until he had disappeared around the corner of the store and then reached into his pockets.\u00a0 He smiled as he drew out a shiny dollar bit. \u2018Now look at that Joe Cartwright!\u2019 he said happily. \u2018I do declare you\u2019ve earned yourself a quick drink before older brother is any the wiser!\u2019 He whistled softly as he vaulted over the hitching rail and disappeared up the street in the direction of the Saloon.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018You was just born looking fer trouble wasn\u2019t ya younger brother?\u2019 asked Hoss in an exasperated tone as he drew the horses to a halt in the front yard. \u2018Ain\u2019t ya got any sense at all?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It wasn\u2019t my fault!\u2019 declared Joe for the tenth time since they\u2019d left town. \u2018I told you before that Martin Heslop was insulting me! I had no choice but to hit him.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss glared at him. \u2018You had no choice!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018Of course if you\u2019d done as you were told in the first place you wouldn\u2019t have been anywhere near that Saloon and then he couldn\u2019t have insulted you could he?\u2019 Joe was silent as he thought about the logic behind his brother\u2019s statement. \u2018Well all I can say is that you\u2019d better have a better explanation than that fer Pa,\u2019 continued Hoss as he got down from the buggy. \u2018It\u2019s gonna be mighty hard fer him ta miss that black eye of yours.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe fingered the eye in question gingerly. \u2018I think I might go in the back way and straight up to my room,\u2019 he said. \u2018It needs a good soaking for a while.\u00a0 Tell Pa I don\u2019t want any dinner will ya Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh no you don\u2019t!\u2019 said his brother as he collared him and held onto him tight. \u2018You\u2019re facing this alone Joseph!\u00a0 I ain\u2019t taking any blame fer this one.\u2019\u00a0 He steered his little brother towards the house forcefully.<\/p>\n

\u2018Aw come on Hoss!\u2019 said Joe pleadingly. \u2018Have a heart!\u00a0 You know what Pa\u2019s gonna do!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What is Pa going to do?\u2019 asked a stern voice from the porch. Joe swallowed as he turned and saw his father standing there with his hands on his hips. \u2018Oh hi Pa!\u2019 he said as he pulled his hat down over his face in a vain attempt to shield his black eye from his father\u2019s glare. \u2018I didn\u2019t see you there.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright glared at his youngest son. \u2018I\u2019m surprised you can see anything at all out of that eye Joseph!\u2019 he said. \u2018Would you kindly tell me how this came about?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked at Hoss pleadingly, but his older brother just stood there and folded his arms in front of him as he smiled. \u2018Well\u2026\u2019 Joe began.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 asked Ben as he folded his arms in like fashion.<\/p>\n

Joe put his hands up in a gesture of defeat. \u2018I got into a fight,\u2019 he said lamely.<\/p>\n

\u2018Where?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe rolled his eyes. \u2018In the Saloon,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben nodded slightly and pursed his mouth. \u2018Did I or did I not send you two into town to get supplies and the mail?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir,\u2019 said Joe quietly.<\/p>\n

\u2018And did I mention anything about you going into the Saloon?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

\u2018No sir,\u2019 said Joe in an even quieter voice.<\/p>\n

\u2018Even so you saw fit to spend your time drinking and fighting when you knew we were waiting for those supplies?\u2019 continued his father.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018And you let him!\u2019 Ben turned to Hoss.<\/p>\n

Hoss put his hands on his hips again. \u2018Don\u2019t blame me Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018You know what he\u2019s like!\u00a0 One minute he was there and the next he was gone.\u00a0 I told him to wait fer me, but he just took off.\u00a0 I had to go in and get him.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben turned back to his youngest son and pointed his finger at him. \u2018You!\u2019 he said. \u2018You can unload all those sacks by yourself young man for a start!\u00a0 And then as soon as you\u2019ve finished your dinner you can get to work on that tack room! A bit of hard work might just change your attitude a bit!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa!\u2019 said Joe as he took a step towards his father.<\/p>\n

Ben glared at him. \u2018What?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe took a step back as he noticed the look in his father\u2019s eye. \u2018But it\u2019s my afternoon off!\u2019 he said lamely. \u2018I was going fishing.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben gave him an incredulous look. \u2018Really?\u2019 he said sarcastically. \u2018And is there anything else you\u2019d like to say before I decide that sixteen is not too big to put you over my knee Joseph?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Joe gulped. \u2018No Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I guess I\u2019ll get the tack room straightened up this afternoon.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I guess you will,\u2019 said his father as he marched into the house and banged the door behind him.<\/p>\n

Joe gave Hoss a sour look. \u2018Thanks a lot!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Hoss grinned at him. \u2018No problem,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019d better start on them sacks now if you want ta get em done before dinner younger brother. I can tell you they\u2019re mighty heavy!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe glared at his brother as he watched him stride away.\u00a0\u00a0 He fingered his sore eye again and with a sigh began to pull one of the sacks off the buckboard.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018Pass the black-eyed peas please Joe,\u2019 said Adam with a grin.<\/p>\n

\u2018They\u2019re ordinary peas for your information!\u2019 said his younger brother with a dark look at him.<\/p>\n

\u2018Really?\u2019 said Adam in a surprised tone as he inspected the bowl closely. \u2018My mistake.\u00a0 I thought they were of the black-eyed variety.\u00a0 I wonder why?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss gave a laugh and hit his older brother on the back. \u2018Good one!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Joe glared at them both. \u2018Very funny!\u2019 he said. \u2018Why can\u2019t you two just leave me alone for a change?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018We try,\u2019 he said. \u2018But you just make it too easy for us little brother. We feel obliged to keep knocking you down again.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben glared at his three sons. \u2018That\u2019s enough!\u2019 he said. \u2018Can\u2019t we just for once have a meal in peace?\u2019 He turned to Joe. \u2018And you eat something instead of just pushing that food around your plate!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I think our little brother is full up,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018What\u2019s the matter Joe?\u00a0 Too many hops?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked puzzled. \u2018Huh?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Hops,\u2019 repeated Adam. \u2018A garden vegetable.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked around at the plates scattered on the table. \u2018Ain\u2019t no hops here,\u2019 he said warily. \u2018What do they look like?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I thought you\u2019d be an expert at knowing what they look like,\u2019 continued Adam smoothly. \u2018They use them to make beer.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe reached across the table towards his brother, but Ben slapped his hand away. \u2018Stop it both of you!\u2019 he said. \u2018If I didn\u2019t know any better I\u2019d swear you were both schoolboys.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam smirked. \u2018Well one of us one still is!\u2019 he said as he pointed at Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018You know very well I\u2019ve been left school for six months!\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018I ain\u2019t no schoolboy!\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u2018Well I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he said thoughtfully. \u2018I\u2019d say your education is lacking if you don\u2019t know about common garden vegetables like black-eyed peas and hops.\u00a0 Maybe Pa should consider sending you back there for a while?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sprang to his feet. \u2018I\u2019ll send you back there!\u2019 he declared and drew back his fist.<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019 thundered his father.<\/p>\n

Joe stopped. \u2018Well tell him to stop making fun of me!\u2019 he shouted.<\/p>\n

\u2018Your brother is right!\u2019 said Ben angrily as he turned to Adam. \u2018For heavens sake grow up a bit and leave him alone.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry Pa,\u2019 said Adam, not looking too sorry at all. \u2018He just makes it so easy that I can\u2019t resist.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I think you\u2019d both better get back to your work,\u2019 said Ben, the anger still evident in his voice. \u2018Get!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Gladly!\u2019 said Joe as he strode to the door and slammed his hat on his head.\u00a0 Ben flinched as they all heard it bang loudly.<\/p>\n

\u2018Bye,\u2019 said Adam as he followed.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked at his father. \u2018Does that mean me too?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes it does!\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Get going and leave me in peace for a change!\u2019 He put his elbows on the table and massaged his temples as he closed his eyes and listened to the silence.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018Morning Ben,\u2019 said Roy Coffee as he walked across to his friend. \u2018Haven\u2019t seen you in town for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Roy! Good to see you,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018The ranch has been keeping me busy so I haven\u2019t had a chance to get in. The boys have been keeping me updated on things though.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy raised an eyebrow. \u2018Have they?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Everything?\u2019<\/p>\n

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

Roy shrugged. \u2018Oh nothing.\u00a0 I just thought you should be warned about a few folks around here who might want to have words with you about that youngest boy of yours that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Words?\u00a0 What are you talking about Roy?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well it seems that Joe has got himself into a heap of trouble around here lately,\u2019 said Roy as he leant against a post. \u2018Thought you should be prepared that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh really?\u2019 said Ben. \u2018What kind of trouble?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I think you should find that out for yourself,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018And somehow I don\u2019t think it\u2019ll take you too long.\u2019\u00a0 He looked behind Ben and smiled at Bert Parkins from the Livery Stable.<\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Bert,\u2019 said Ben with a smile and was dismayed to see that the other man didn\u2019t return it.<\/p>\n

\u2018Ben!\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ve been waiting for you to come into town. Guess that youngster of yours has filled you in on what happened last Thursday.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben folded his arms. \u2018No he hasn\u2019t,\u2019 he said. \u2018Why don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Bert lifted an eyebrow. \u2018Well I\u2019m not surprised he hasn\u2019t let on,\u2019 he said. \u2018If I were you I wouldn\u2019t let that boy near a Saloon for quite a while.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think he\u2019s ready for it yet.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Saloon?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I assume that\u2019s where he got the drink from,\u2019 replied Bert. \u2018Bit tipsy he was and I suppose that accounted for the way he was acting.\u00a0 Spooked a couple of the horses he did.\u00a0 Took me half the day to track them down again.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018No harm done to anyone?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Bert fingered his chin. \u2018No harm done,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I lost a few hours work.\u00a0 Costs you know.\u2019\u00a0 He looked at Ben meaningfully.<\/p>\n

How much do you think you would have lost?\u2019 asked Ben with another sigh as he took out his wallet.\u00a0 He made a silent vow to give that youngest son of his a stern talking to.<\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks,\u2019 said Bert as he took the bills that Ben held out. \u2018And keep that boy away from my stables for a bit will you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben rubbed his hand over his eyes. \u2018I think I\u2019m the one who needs a drink,\u2019 he said. \u2018Come on Roy it\u2019s on me.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t mind if I do,\u2019 said Roy with a grin. \u2018I told you that you\u2019d hear about things sooner or later.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You know I just don\u2019t know what to do with that boy lately,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Since he left school he\u2019s been in one bit of trouble after another.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Maybe you should have left him in school until he gets some sense into his head,\u2019 suggested Roy.<\/p>\n

\u2018If I did that he\u2019d likely be there for years to come,\u2019 replied Ben with another sigh as they entered the Silver Dollar Saloon.<\/p>\n

\u2018Ben Cartwright!\u2019 said Sam from behind the counter. \u2018I was wondering how long it would take to get my money!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018What money?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018The money that\u2019s owing to me for the damages.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben held up his hand. \u2018Let me guess,\u2019 he said wearily. \u2018Would this have anything to do with Joseph?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure does,\u2019 declared Sam. \u2018Busted up three chairs and a table when he got into that fight last week.\u00a0 Not to mention a substantial amount of drink on the counter.\u00a0 Here\u2019s an itemised list.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben took the paper and studied it. \u2018All this?\u2019 he asked as he took out his wallet again and handed over some more bills. \u2018I swear I\u2019m going to kill that boy!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Seems like he costs you an awful lot of money,\u2019 observed Roy. \u2018Why don\u2019t you make him pay for his own mistakes?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018With what?\u2019 asked Ben as they sat down. \u2018As fast as he earns the money he seems to spend it.\u00a0 The boy can\u2019t hold onto a dime!\u00a0 If I got him to pay for everything he breaks he\u2019d be paying it off until old age.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy thought for a moment. \u2018Well surely there\u2019s another way to make him see reason,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018Well if you can think of one I\u2019d love to hear it Roy.\u00a0 I\u2019ve talked to him until I\u2019m blue in the face.\u00a0 I\u2019ve even resorted to hitting him a few times, although I think he\u2019s really too big for it now.\u00a0 Adam and Hoss can\u2019t get through to him either and I\u2019m beginning to think that he\u2019ll end up in serious trouble.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well he hasn\u2019t done anything so far to get him into trouble with me,\u2019 said the Sheriff. \u2018He\u2019s just young Ben. Sowing his oats.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I wish he\u2019d hurry up and finish sowing them,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I honestly don\u2019t remember the other two putting me through any of this.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I seem to recall Adam getting up to a bit of mischief when he was Joe\u2019s age,\u2019 said the Sheriff with a twinkle in his eye. Remember that time I had to put him in jail for a prank he pulled?\u00a0 I think he wished I would have lost the key when you came thundering in to get him that day!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben laughed. \u2018Yes I remember,\u2019 he said. \u2018Certainly taught him a lesson didn\u2019t it?\u2019\u00a0 He stood up. \u2018Well I think I\u2019d better get back home before someone else tells me a story about my youngest son that I\u2019d rather not hear,\u2019 he said. \u2018See you later Roy.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Bye,\u2019 said the Sheriff as he downed the last of his beer.\u00a0 He gave a chuckle as he stood up.\u00a0 That youngster certainly gave his father cause for worry!\u00a0 It was at times like this that the Sheriff was glad that he was childless.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018Not only have you cost me a lot of money today Joseph, but it seems that you\u2019ve been gambling a bit as well. Who gave you permission to do that?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u2018I didn\u2019t know I needed it,\u2019 he said. \u2018Besides Pa, it was only a friendly game.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Friendly? Friendly enough to cost you fifty dollars!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe frowned and bit his lip. \u2018Who told you about it?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018Mitch\u2019s father,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018Seems Mitch lost quite a bit as well.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018How was we to know those men were professionals?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head as he stared at his son. \u2018Professional or not Joseph, that isn\u2019t the point.\u00a0 You have no right to be in town carrying on like this!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018But Pa!\u2019 began Joe, but stopped when he looked at his father\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Joseph?\u00a0 Please go on.\u00a0 I\u2019m most anxious to hear what you have to say,\u2019 said Ben sarcastically. \u2018Any light you can throw on this situation would be most interesting to me.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked at the floor for a moment and then looked up at his father again. \u2018I was just gonna say that I\u2019m a man now.\u00a0 I\u2019ve left school and it seems to me that I should be able to decide things for myself.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018I agree,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Joe grinned. \u2018You do?\u2019 he said, pleased.<\/p>\n

Ben nodded again. \u2018I certainly do,\u2019 he said. \u2018As you say Joseph you\u2019re a man now and you\u2019re responsible for your own life.\u00a0 Is that right?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Joe tentatively.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t like the sound of where this was leading to.<\/p>\n

\u2018So if you\u2019re responsible for your own life, then the way I figure it you owe me close to a three hundred dollars,\u2019 said his father.<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018Three hundred dollars?\u2019 he squeaked. \u2018How come?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well there\u2019s the damage to the Saloon as well as the money I had to pay Bert.\u00a0 Then there\u2019s the time you took off work to cause all the trouble. Calculating things on your hourly wage I think it should probably take you the rest of the year to pay me back.\u00a0 That\u2019s if you don\u2019t have any days off.\u2019 Joe stared at his father silently. \u2018Rather not pay it?\u2019\u00a0 asked Ben. Joe shook his head. \u2018Well then until you\u2019re prepared to foot the bill for your little escapades you will do as I say young man!\u2019 thundered his father. \u2018And that includes working where and when I tell you and not taking any time off work to get into mischief.\u00a0 Do I make myself clear?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018Yes sir,\u2019 he said quietly.<\/p>\n

Ben pointed his finger at his son. \u2018I mean it!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018The next time you get yourself into trouble Joseph, you can get yourself out of it!\u00a0 There will be no more picking up the pieces by me!\u00a0 Is that understood?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Now get out of here and get back to work!\u2019 thundered Ben.<\/p>\n

Joe scuttled quickly out of the room, banging the door behind him.\u00a0 Ben flinched as the noise reverberated through the room. He glanced at the picture of Joe\u2019s mother on the desk in front of him. \u2018Well you tell me what to do!\u2019 he said angrily. \u2018I\u2019ve run out of ideas!\u2019\u00a0 He stood up and strode out of the room after his son.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

For the next few days Joe kept his head down and worked hard, hoping to avoid his father\u2019s wrath any further.\u00a0 It seemed to Ben that the boy was making a genuine effort to heed his words, but past experience had told him that Joe never could sustain any attempt to behave himself for any great length of time and so he was rather sceptical about it.\u00a0 He knew that it was only a matter of time before the boy fell from grace again and he was determined that when it happened he would well and truly teach him a lesson that he wouldn\u2019t soon forget.<\/p>\n

So it was less than a week later, that he had the opportunity to do just that.\u00a0 It was late afternoon when Hoss came riding into the front yard at full pelt.\u00a0 The action was so unlike his middle son who usually took things at a much steadier pace, that it made Ben look up in surprise.<\/p>\n

\u2018Where are you off to in such a hurry Hoss?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Something the matter?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss dismounted quickly and rubbed his chin as he said reluctantly. \u2018Ya could say that Pa.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes narrowed as he noticed that Hoss wasn\u2019t looking him straight in the eye\u2026a sure sign that he was uneasy about something. \u2018What?\u2019 he asked sharply.<\/p>\n

Hoss dug his toe into the ground and seemed intent on watching it. \u2018Um\u2026. I was in town getting the mail like ya told me to Pa,\u2019 he said slowly.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018And \u2026 well Sheriff Coffee gave me a message ta give you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben gave him a frustrated look. \u2018And the message is?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Um\u2026 He said that if you want Joe released you\u2019d better come in and get him.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s face hardened. \u2018Released?\u00a0 Released from where?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss looked at the sky and seemed to be studying the clouds intently. \u2018Um\u2026 jail I guess.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What?!?\u2019 Ben thundered. \u2018And just how did that brother of yours manage to end up in jail might I ask?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Joe\u2019s in jail?\u2019 asked Adam as he emerged from the barn. \u2018How come?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss looked from one to the other. \u2018Nuthin ta do with me!\u2019 he assured them. \u2018He was already in there when I got ta town.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018And just what was he doing in town anyway?\u2019 asked Ben angrily. \u2018I told him to get those fences fixed today.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Seems like he was in a poker game,\u2019 said Hoss slowly. \u2018There was a bit of a fight by the sound of it.\u00a0 Sam said he\u2019s sick of having the place busted up and so he told Roy that this time he\u2019s pressing charges against Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Why just Joe?\u00a0 Why not the others who were involved?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

\u2018Hoss swallowed. \u2018Well\u2026 it seems like Joe was the one started it. The others was just defending themselves.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben had a thunderous look on his face. \u2018Really? he said quietly. Adam and Hoss glanced at each other.<\/p>\n

\u2018You want me to go and get him Pa?\u2019 asked Adam.\u00a0 Even though he teased Joe unmercifully he did feel rather sorry for his little brother at the moment considering the look on their father\u2019s face and what it could mean for him.<\/p>\n

\u2018No.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam exchanged another glance. \u2018Ya want me to Pa?\u2019 asked Hoss tentatively.<\/p>\n

\u2018No I don\u2019t,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019ll go into town myself thank you boys. Please ask Hop Sing not to hold my supper for me.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018We\u2019ll wait to eat with you and Joe when you get back.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018Don\u2019t bother waiting boys,\u2019 he said. \u2018Your brother won\u2019t be coming back with me and I can get something to eat in town.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Not coming back?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018Why not?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I think it\u2019s about time Joseph was taught a lesson before it\u2019s too late,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I intend to leave him cooling his heels in jail for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed. \u2018Joe\u2019s gonna hate that Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018You know he can\u2019t stand being still in one spot fer very long.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018I do know that Hoss and that\u2019s exactly why I\u2019m doing this.\u00a0 I have to get through to that boy somehow and I think that a few days in jail might do him the world of good.\u2019\u00a0 He strode over to his horse and mounted. \u2018I\u2019ll be back later tonight,\u2019 he said. \u2018Please don\u2019t wait up for me.\u2019<\/p>\n

The two Cartwrights watched their father disappear around the side of the barn. \u2018Wow!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Joe\u2019s gonna hate this!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I think it\u2019s about time Pa did something like this,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Joe needs to be taught a lesson.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah, but\u2026\u2019\u00a0 Hoss shrugged. \u2018I sure hope he don\u2019t make him stay there too long.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam shrugged and put his arm around his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Just think for a minute Hoss.\u00a0 Consider the possibilities of this. Several days without Joe pestering us!\u00a0 Maybe some time to do our work without him causing trouble around us.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 face split into a huge grin. \u2018Yeah!\u2019 he agreed. \u2018Come ta think of it, it might be nice ta be without that pest for a bit after all!\u2019<\/p>\n

Now you\u2019ve got the idea,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Come on brother!\u00a0 Let\u2019s have a nice peaceful supper\u2026.just the two of us.\u2019\u00a0 The two brothers headed for the house together.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Joe sat on the edge of the narrow bunk and considered his options anxiously.\u00a0 He desperately tried to think up an excuse for his behaviour that his father would accept, but for the life of him he just couldn\u2019t come up with anything feasible. The problem was that what had happened had been his fault and there was just no getting around that fact. He knew he shouldn\u2019t have been in town in the first place, but when he\u2019d heard that those professional gamblers had made it back he just couldn\u2019t resist trying to get his money back. The problem was that they hadn\u2019t taken too kindly to that fact.\u00a0 Joe had found himself in a difficult situation in more ways than one.<\/p>\n

He looked around him at the four walls of the small cell and sighed. Even though he was dreading the confrontation with his father over this, Pa couldn\u2019t come soon enough for his liking.\u00a0 He\u2019d only been in here a couple of hours and already he\u2019d had enough!<\/p>\n

He turned his head sharply as he heard voices in the next room.\u00a0 As the door opened, Joe stood up and picked up his hat, holding it in front of him in what he hoped was an apologetic stance.\u00a0 As Ben Cartwright and Sheriff Coffee entered the room, he gave them a small smile. \u2018Hi Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben glared at him and ignored the remark. Instead he turned to Roy. \u2018How much damage was there this time Roy?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018About two hundred dollars worth,\u2019 said the Sheriff with a twinkle in his eye. Ben had already filled him in on what he was intending to do and he was set to enjoy the spectacle that was about to unfold in front of him.<\/p>\n

\u2018I see. And Sam is pressing charges?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure is,\u2019 replied Roy.<\/p>\n

\u2018Well then you\u2019d better deal with things,\u2019 said Ben, staring at Joe with a stony face.\u00a0 Joe gulped. He had expected his father to start yelling at him straight away and was wishing that he would get it over with so that they could get started on their way home before supper.<\/p>\n

Roy turned to Joe. \u2018You\u2019ve got two choices boy,\u2019 he said. \u2018Either you pay for the damages or you spend a week right here in this jail cell,\u2019 he said. \u2018Which is it to be?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe glanced at his father, trying to read the expression on his face. \u2018Um\u2026.I guess I\u2019ll be paying,\u2019 he said lamely.<\/p>\n

\u2018Fine,\u2019 said the Sheriff. \u2018Hand it over then.\u2019<\/p>\n

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

\u2018The money. Two hundred dollars.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Um\u2026.\u2019 Joe looked at his father again. \u2018I ain\u2019t got two hundred dollars,\u2019 he said finally when Ben didn\u2019t move.<\/p>\n

Roy put on a frustrated look. \u2018Well then why\u2019d ya say you was gonna pay?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Joe licked his lips as he began to feel more uncomfortable. \u2018Um\u2026 I was hoping someone else might pay for me,\u2019 he said hopefully.<\/p>\n

\u2018And just who might that someone be Joseph?\u2019 asked Ben sarcastically. \u2018I hope you don\u2019t mean me.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded slightly. \u2018Well\u2026. I was thinking you might Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben folded his arms in front of him. \u2018Well you were thinking wrong,\u2019 he said. \u2018Roy?\u2019<\/p>\n

The Sheriff tried to hide his smile. \u2018Well it looks like you\u2019ll to do your time in here then boy,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Joe looked at him appalled. \u2018But\u2026 but I can\u2019t!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked desperately at his father. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Ben looked back at him coolly. \u2018Yes Joseph?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018Ain\u2019t you gonna get me out of here?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018No I\u2019m not,\u2019 he said simply. \u2018I think it\u2019s about time you took responsibility for your actions young man.\u00a0 Isn\u2019t that what you wanted after all? You wanted to be treated like you\u2019re grown up.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe licked his lips again. \u2018Yeah but\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/p>\n

\u2018Please?\u2019 asked his son, giving his father one of his best puppy dog looks.<\/p>\n

Ben hardened himself to the look on his son\u2019s face. \u2018No Joseph,\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018You made your bed and now you can lie in it son.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced over at the narrow bunk. \u2018And by the looks of it it\u2019s not going to be too comfortable.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to Roy. \u2018Thank you Sheriff,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll leave you to sort out your prisoner now.\u2019\u00a0 Without another word he turned on his heel and walked out of the room, closing the door behind him.<\/p>\n

Joe stood and stared at Sheriff Coffee silently. \u2018Ya\u2019d best get some sleep while ya can boy,\u2019 said the Sheriff. \u2018It\u2019s likely ta get a mite noisy round here as the night gets on. Lots of drunks usually congregate over the road at the Saloon and it\u2019s hard to get some shuteye. I\u2019ll bring you some grub soon.\u2019 He turned and left the room as well, laughing to himself at the dejected look on the boy\u2019s face.\u00a0 Ben was sure teaching this boy one big lesson and from the looks of things it was one young Joseph Cartwright mightn\u2019t soon forget!<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Joe walked restlessly from one end of the cell to the other for the hundredth time that morning. He banged his hand on the wall in front of him when he reached it and then turned to go the other way again.\u00a0 He felt like screaming out his frustration, but knew that there was no one to hear it and so didn\u2019t bother to waste his breath. It seemed like he\u2019d been cooped in here forever and he hated the thought of how much time was left until he could get out.<\/p>\n

At first he\u2019d thought that his father had been joking and that he\u2019d come for him the following day after leaving him to cool his heels overnight.\u00a0 But here it was after lunch already and he began to realise that it wasn\u2019t going to happen. Last night had been difficult, as Sheriff Coffee had been right and there was just too much noise for him to get much sleep.\u00a0 Besides, the bunk was so uncomfortable that he couldn\u2019t have slept much even if it had been quiet.<\/p>\n

Joe turned sharply as the door opened and he smiled when Sheriff Coffee entered. \u2018How are you boy?\u2019 the man asked. He glanced at the tray on the bunk. \u2018I\u2019ll take that now.\u2019\u00a0 He frowned as he reached for the tray through the bars. \u2018You didn\u2019t eat much.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m not hungry,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Has my Pa been in yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Nope. Anything I can get you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe tried again. \u2018Have my brothers been around?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Nope.\u2019\u00a0 Roy looked at the youngster sympathetically. \u2018Don\u2019t worry,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m sure they\u2019ll be in eventually to visit you. Yell out if there\u2019s anything you need.\u2019 He turned to leave, but stopped as he heard Joe call out.<\/p>\n

\u2018Um\u2026 there is one thing,\u2019 he said sheepishly.<\/p>\n

Roy turned. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018I need to get out of here for a few minutes,\u2019 said Joe, blushing slightly.<\/p>\n

The sheriff frowned. \u2018It\u2019s like ya Pa said son.\u00a0 You got time to do in here and there\u2019s no getting around that fact.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t about to go against his wishes.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No that\u2019s not what I mean,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018It\u2019s\u2026. um\u2026\u2019 he cleared his throat. \u2018I need to \u2026you know!\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy frowned. \u2018No I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he said. \u2018What?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe lowered his voice. \u2018Visit the outhouse,\u2019 he said softly.<\/p>\n

Roy tried to stop himself from laughing. \u2018Oh,\u2019 he said and then shook his head. \u2018Sorry son.\u00a0 There\u2019s a pot under the bunk for that.\u00a0 I\u2019ll collect it later.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe stood rooted to the spot and stared at the man appalled. \u2018You ain\u2019t serious!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Roy looked amused. \u2018I certainly am,\u2019 he said. \u2018What did you think?\u00a0 That I let murderers and other prisoners out of here to have a polite pee out the back? One of the hazards of being in jail son. You\u2019d better get used to it if you\u2019re gonna be here for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe stared as Roy left the room. \u2018I ain\u2019t no murderer!\u2019 he yelled after him. \u2018Can\u2019t you make an exception?\u2019 When the Sheriff didn\u2019t return, he reached under the bunk and drew out the pot that he found there. So the man wasn\u2019t joking after all? He put his face in his hands and thought for a moment considering his options. It seemed like he didn\u2019t have any and so he began to go about his business as quickly as he could.<\/p>\n

A moment later the door burst open and the Sheriff entered again. \u2018I thought you might need this,\u2019 he said as he held out an old newspaper to Joe with a grin.\u00a0 Joe flushed with embarrassment as he looked up at the Sheriff. \u2018Thanks,\u2019 he mumbled.\u00a0 Roy put the paper on the floor and left again, leaving a very red-faced youngster behind him. A moment later the door burst open again and the Sheriff put his head around it a second time. \u2018You\u2019ve got a visitor,\u2019 he said. \u2018Need a bit more time?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 said Joe between clenched teeth. \u2018Please.\u2019<\/p>\n

The sheriff disappeared again. \u2018Holler when you\u2019re ready,\u2019 he called.<\/p>\n

Joe finished up and readjusted his clothing, wondering what to do with the receptacle in his hand.\u00a0 After a moment\u2019s thought he shoved it under the bunk again. \u2018Ready!\u2019 he shouted.<\/p>\n

The door opened and Roy appeared again with a big grin on his face. \u2018Someone to see you,\u2019 he said. Joe stepped forward hopefully, but his face fell as he saw Susan Watkins entering the room behind the Sheriff. \u2018Well I\u2019ll leave you two together,\u2019 said Roy and disappeared again.<\/p>\n

Susan gave Joe a mournful look. \u2018I heard you were in here,\u2019 she said. \u2018I thought I\u2019d come to cheer you up a bit.\u2019 She plonked herself down on a stool and smiled.<\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks,\u2019 said Joe flatly. \u2018But I wouldn\u2019t want to put you out at all.\u2019 The last thing he wanted to do was talk to someone like Susan Watkins.<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh it\u2019s no trouble,\u2019 said Susan sweetly. \u2018I\u2019ve got lots of time.\u2019\u00a0 She looked around her in an interested fashion. \u2018I\u2019ve never visited a jail before. What\u2019s it like?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh it\u2019s fine and dandy!\u2019 declared Joe.\u00a0 \u2018All the comforts of home!\u2019<\/p>\n

So I see,\u2019 she said. \u2018They let you read the paper at least I see.\u00a0 Although I think the Sheriff could have given you an updated one.\u00a0 That one\u2019s at least a week old!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe blushed and pushed the paper under the bunk. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said lamely. \u2018Whatever.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018So!\u2019 said Susan on the stool comfortably. \u2018I\u2019ve got all afternoon. \u2018What would you like to talk about?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sat down on the bunk dejectedly and sighed.\u00a0 It seemed that there were quite a few things that he needed to come to terms with during his stay here and getting used to Susan Watkins was just one of them.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018So how\u2019s he getting on Roy?\u2019 asked Adam as he stretched his long legs out and took the cup of coffee from the Sheriff. \u2018Is he coping?\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy sat down and took a sip form his own cup. \u2018Just,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018Seems like your Pa might be right.\u00a0 I think this is the best medicine that youngster could have.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam grinned. \u2018I agree,\u2019 he said. \u2018He needs to learn that the world doesn\u2019t revolve around him. It\u2019ll do him good to have things tough for a bit.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy laughed. \u2018I think your brother is learning to appreciate his home at the moment,\u2019 he said. \u2018I must admit to having a few laughs at his expense though.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam grinned. \u2018I\u2019m sure,\u2019 he said as he stood up. \u2018Well I\u2019d better go and give him some family comfort. Want to bet he plays for the sympathy vote?\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy returned the grin. \u2018That\u2019s a safe bet,\u2019 he said as he opened up the newspaper. \u2018Good luck!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up dully as the door opened again. If that was Susan Watkins again he thought he might just scream.\u00a0 An afternoon spent in her company was enough to last him forever! He smiled when he was it was his brother Adam and leapt off the bunk. \u2018Adam!\u2019 he said. \u2018Have you come to get me out of here?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam took his time sitting down on the stool. \u2018Now whatever would you make think that?\u2019 he said slowly. \u2018What would Pa say if I went against his wishes?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe ran his fingers through his hair in a frustrated fashion. \u2018Please?\u2019 he said. \u2018Can\u2019t you talk to him for me?\u2019 He gave his brother a pleading puppy dog look that seemed to amuse Adam.<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I could,\u2019 his older brother replied. \u2018But it wouldn\u2019t do any good. He\u2019s bound and determined to teach you a lesson this time Joe and to be honest I think he\u2019s right.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe scowled. \u2018You would!\u2019 he declared and turned away to sit back down on the bunk.<\/p>\n

Adam stared at him for a full minute before he spoke. \u2018It\u2019s not too bad in here is it?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

Joe made a face. \u2018Not too bad?\u2019 he said. \u2018What do you think? I\u2019m going mad in here Adam! Cooped up like this!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh for heavens sake, stop being so dramatic,\u2019 said his brother. \u2018It\u2019s only been a day.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018The longest day of my life!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I can\u2019t take this for a whole week Adam!\u00a0 Please talk to Pa!\u2019\u00a0 He turned on his most charming look and batted his eyelashes. \u2018I\u2026. I\u2019m feeling kinda weak in here.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think it\u2019s good for my health.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam wrinkled up his nose. \u2018Yes, well it doesn\u2019t smell too good in here I must admit,\u2019 he said. \u2018What is that awful smell?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe blushed. \u2018I can\u2019t smell anything,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Adam pursed his lips. \u2018Well I can,\u2019 he said. \u2018Probably the outhouse.\u00a0 That window backs onto it. Face it Joe, you\u2019re here to stay for a while and there\u2019s nothing you can do about it.\u2019\u00a0 He stood up. \u2018Anything you need?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe gave his brother another mournful look. \u2018I could do with a change of clothes,\u2019 he said. \u2018And something to wash with.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No need for that,\u2019 said Roy Coffee as he walked through the door with a bowl of hot water.\u00a0 Here\u2019s your washing allocation for the day son.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked at the small bowl of water as Adam tried to hide a grin. \u2018Thanks,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019d like to wash my hands and face.\u00a0 Do I get a bath later?\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam suppressed a laugh and turned it into a coughing fit instead. \u2018This is all you get,\u2019 said Roy Coffee. \u2018Standard procedure.\u00a0 You can use it to wash all over.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked shocked. \u2018In here?\u2019 he said. \u2018Someone might come in!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No one\u2019s gonna look at you,\u2019 said the Sheriff. \u2018I\u2019ll keep the door closed.\u00a0 Now while I\u2019m here I may as well take that pot and empty it for you.\u00a0 Couldn\u2019t very well do it earlier with your young lady in here could I?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018What young lady?\u2019 asked Adam as he tried to keep a straight face at the look that Joe gave the Sheriff.<\/p>\n

\u2018Young Susan Watkins,\u2019 said Roy.\u00a0 \u2018Spent the whole afternoon here with Joe.\u00a0 Said she\u2019s coming back tomorrow as well. I think she might be keen on you boy.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe gave them both a pained look. \u2018Can\u2019t you keep her out?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Roy shook his head. \u2018Anyone has the right to visit the jail when they want to,\u2019 he said. \u2018Besides I would think you might enjoy the company. Now\u2026where\u2019s that pot?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe tried to look casual as he pulled the chamber pot out from under the bunk and handed it to the sheriff who left the room with it. Adam raised an eyebrow. \u2018Seems like the outhouse was closer than I thought,\u2019 he said as he watched his brother go bright red. \u2018My nose was accurate after all.\u2019 Joe cleared his throat and turned to face the wall, studying the bricks intently. \u2018Bye,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018One of us will bring you a change of clothes in the morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks,\u2019 mumbled Joe as his brother left the room. He glanced at the small bowl of hot water that Roy had left. \u2018Hey!\u2019 he yelled. \u2018What about a towel?\u2019\u00a0 There was silence as he sighed and began to undo the buttons of his shirt slowly.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018What is this mush?\u2019 asked Joe as he wrinkled up his nose at the bowl he held in his hands.<\/p>\n

\u2018Porridge,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018That\u2019s your breakfast. Got a bit burnt, but you can eat around the black bits.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s full of lumps!\u2019 declared Joe as he took a small mouthful.<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019m not the best cook in the world, but you won\u2019t starve in here,\u2019 said Roy pleasantly. \u2018Most inmates get to like my cooking after a few days.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I won\u2019t be one of em,\u2019 said Joe as he tried to swallow the unpalatable fare.<\/p>\n

\u2018Pity,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018You won\u2019t get anything else.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe stared glumly at the bowl as he wondered what his Hop Sing was serving his father and brothers for breakfast. Probably flapjacks with maple syrup, eggs and bacon, fresh rolls and coffee he decided.\u00a0 His mouth began to water as he shovelled another mouthful of the unappetising porridge into his mouth and tried to swallow it. It wasn\u2019t fair!<\/em> he thought. His father was being too hard on him!\u00a0 After all\u2026all he had done was try and win back the money he\u2019d lost.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t his fault if those guys had provoked him into a fight! Joe scowled as he admitted to himself that it probably was his fault in a way.\u00a0 It was just\u2026well if this was being grown up and taking responsibility then he didn\u2019t want it!<\/p>\n

\u2018Hey Sheriff Coffee?\u2019 he asked suddenly.<\/p>\n

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

\u2018Do you reckon I could get a message to my Pa? Could I get some stuff to write a letter?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t see why not,\u2019 said the Sheriff as he smiled to himself.\u00a0 So the boy was going to try pleading to his father direct was he? Somehow he didn\u2019t think it could do him any good, but he wouldn\u2019t deny him the opportunity to try. \u2018I\u2019ll get some paper and a pen for you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe spent the next half hour trying to put his thoughts into words for his father.\u00a0 It was true that he wanted him to come and liberate him from here more than anything, but he also wanted him to know how sorry he was about what he\u2019d done and the way in which he\u2019d been behaving lately. As he finished the letter and sealed it up, Joe wondered if his father would at least come and visit him here.\u00a0 He hoped so, for he would like the chance to tell him what was in the letter face to face.<\/p>\n

\u2018Here\u2019s your visitor,\u2019 said the Sheriff as Joe put the letter on the bunk beside him. He looked up with a sinking heart to see Susan appearing, carrying a large bag.<\/p>\n

Hello Joe!\u2019 she said brightly. \u2018How are you today?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Fine,\u2019 he said without any enthusiasm.\u00a0 Roy ignored the youngster\u2019s pleading look and left the room with a grin.<\/p>\n

\u2018What you got in the bag?\u2019 asked Joe hopefully.<\/p>\n

\u2018My knitting,\u2019 said Susan brightly as she took a huge wad of wool out of it. \u2018I thought seeing as how I\u2019ll be spending a lot of time here I may as well keep busy. Want to help me roll it up?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked at her aghast. \u2018What?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018Do you want to help me roll it up?\u2019 repeated Susan patiently. \u2018Aren\u2019t you hearing very well?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe blinked a couple of times. \u2018If you think I\u2019m gonna sit here and\u2026..\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I thought it might give you something to do,\u2019 said Susan pleasantly. \u2018Here.\u2019\u00a0 She thrust the pile of wool at Joe through the bars and took the end as she began to roll. \u2018Now\u2026. I was telling you yesterday about my Aunt Beatrice.\u00a0 After she found out that she suffered from a mild form of asthma\u2026..\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe groaned softly as he held onto the wool and placed his face against the bars. He knew that he probably deserved to be locked up, but surely this was a punishment above and beyond something even the most hardened of criminals should be expected to bear!<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018Well lookey here!\u2019 said Hoss with a huge grin as he entered the room and saw Joe sitting patiently holding a scan of wool around his two outstretched hands and winding them obediently for an animated Susan Watkins. \u2018I do believe our little brother is becoming domesticated Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam grinned behind his brother in the doorway. \u2018Practising for the Wednesday Afternoon Ladies\u2019 Society Meeting are we Joe?\u2019 he asked sweetly. \u2018Morning Miss Susan.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe gave his brothers a dark look and thrust the wool back through the bars at Susan. \u2018Well it was something to do!\u2019 he declared. \u2018I don\u2019t suppose either of you thought to bring me anything to amuse myself!\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam smirked. \u2018Well it looks as though you\u2019ve got enough to keep you busy here,\u2019 he said. \u2018We did, however, bring you a few things.\u2019<\/p>\n

Susan stood up. \u2018Well I\u2019d better be going home for lunch,\u2019 she said. \u2018I\u2019ll be back this afternoon Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t bother,\u2019 said Joe with a scowl.<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh it\u2019s no bother at all!\u2019 she said. \u2018I\u2019ll see you soon!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well ain\u2019t that nice!\u2019 declared Hoss as he sat down. \u2018I told you that you should get to know that little gal a bit more and it seems you took my advice for once.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe ignored the remark. \u2018What did you bring me?\u2019 he asked, eyeing the bag that Adam held.<\/p>\n

\u2018Some things we thought might be useful,\u2019 said his older brother as he handed him the bag through the bars. \u2018Sorry there\u2019s no hacksaw in there for you to cut your way out of here.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah,\u2019 added Hoss. \u2018Roy made us get rid of it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Very funny!\u2019 said Joe as he undid the bag.\u00a0 He took out some clean clothes. \u2018Great!\u2019 he said enthusiastically. \u2018I really need these.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes you are a bit on the nose,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Come to think of it, anything you\u2019d like me to empty for you while I\u2019m here?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shot him another dark look. \u2018No thank you!\u2019 he said angrily. He could tell from Hoss\u2019 smirk that the story of his chamber pot had been circulated and he didn\u2019t like it one bit.\u00a0 \u2018Is that all you brought?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well what were you expecting?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n

\u2018I thought you could have brought me a couple of books,\u2019 said Joe grumpily. \u2018Or maybe a checkerboard.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018And just who would you be playing with?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018Roy doesn\u2019t have time to be baby sitting you.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018If you were any kind of decent brothers one of you would stay with me for a while!\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018Well first of all little brother we\u2019ve got work to do,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018And second of all you\u2019re not exactly great company at the moment.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 agreed Adam. \u2018It\u2019s all right for you sitting here loafing all day, but some of us have to make up for the work you\u2019re not doing. come on Hoss, let\u2019s leave little brother to his whining.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No wait!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I didn\u2019t mean it. Honest.\u00a0 Can\u2019t you stay for a bit?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh,\u2019 said Hoss with a wink at Adam. \u2018Now he changes his tune. \u2018What\u2019s the matter little buddy?\u00a0 Missing your big brothers are you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked downcast. \u2018Well it\u2019s kinda lonely in here,\u2019 he said. He looked at his brothers out of the corner of his eye and was pleased to see them looking a bit anxious under their smirks.\u00a0 He gave a big sigh. \u2018I\u2019m feeling kinda depressed you know?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Aw come on Joe,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018It ain\u2019t fer long.\u00a0 It can\u2019t be that bad!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You don\u2019t understand,\u2019 said Joe, putting his face in his hands and watching them from between his parted fingers. \u2018I feel so\u2026. so alone in here.\u2019\u00a0 He sighed again for effect.<\/p>\n

\u2018Well you should have thought of that before you went ahead and busted up the Saloon,\u2019 said Adam firmly. \u2018Don\u2019t play the sympathy vote here Joe.\u00a0 You\u2019ll get none from me.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe put his head up and scowled. \u2018Did you talk to Pa for me?\u2019 he asked, changing his tone.<\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Sure did,\u2019 he said. \u2018Didn\u2019t do any good though.\u00a0 He\u2019s determined you\u2019re seeing the week out little brother.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well can you take this to him for me at least?\u2019 asked Joe holding out the letter.<\/p>\n

\u2018What is it?\u2019 asked Hoss as he took it from him.<\/p>\n

\u2018A letter,\u2019 said Joe sarcastically. \u2018What does it look like?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss stared at him. \u2018OK,\u2019 Joe acknowledged glumly. \u2018Would you please deliver this letter to Pa Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure,\u2019 said Hoss as he stuffed it into his pocket. \u2018Be glad to.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Come on Hoss,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018How about a drink before we get back to work?\u2019\u00a0 He grinned at Joe. \u2018Sorry I can\u2019t bring you one Joe, but it\u2019s against regulations. Maybe next time.\u2019 Joe scowled at them both. \u2018We\u2019ll come in again tomorrow,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Maybe if you\u2019re a good boy we\u2019ll bring you a bit of patchwork or tapestry to do while you\u2019re talking to Susan.\u00a0 To keep her company.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe watched as his two brothers left the room. \u2018Don\u2019t think I won\u2019t remember this!\u2019 he called after them. He scowled again as they closed the door behind them.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018He wrote you a letter,\u2019 said Hoss as he handed it over.<\/p>\n

Ben looked at the crumpled paper as he took it. \u2018How is he coping?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh he\u2019s surviving.\u00a0 Don\u2019t worry about him Pa,\u2019 said Adam as he sat down. \u2018Do him the world of good to be a bit put out for a few days. I do think he\u2019ll come home with a different attitude though.\u2019<\/p>\n

I certainly hope so,\u2019 said their father in a determined voice.\u00a0 Much and all as he didn\u2019t want to admit it, he really missed the boy and he wanted to be sure that Joe wasn\u2019t finding the experience too difficult.\u00a0 Ben was adamant that his son was going to see out the week in jail, but with each day that passed he found it very difficult not to give in and go and get him.\u00a0 He ripped open the letter and began to read it out loud.<\/p>\n

Dear Pa,<\/p>\n

I hope you are well. I\u2019m not doing so good myself. It\u2019s hard being here in jail, but I expect you know that.\u00a0 You put me here for that reason I know.\u00a0 I want you to know that I\u2019ve learned my lesson now and I\u2019m ready to come home.\u00a0 I promise that I won\u2019t get into any more trouble and I will try to do as you tell me. I miss you and want to be home again. Please Pa? Please let me come home now.\u00a0 Jail is not a nice place to be and I will try to be good so that I never have to come back here. I\u2019m sorry that I made you angry and that I cost you all that money.\u00a0 I will try to pay it back.\u00a0 You can take it out of my wages. Please Pa? Will you come and get me? I\u2019ve learnt my lesson now I promise you.<\/p>\n

Your loving son,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joseph Cartwright<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben put down the letter.\u00a0 There was silence for a few moments as they all thought about Joe\u2019s words.<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa\u2026\u2019 began Hoss.<\/p>\n

Ben looked at him and held up his hand. \u2018No Hoss,\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018Don\u2019t say it son.\u00a0 I am not changing my mind.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss looked glum. \u2018He looked real sad in there today,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure he did,\u2019 said his father. \u2018And I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll be a whole lot sadder before the week is out. That\u2019s the whole point of this.\u2019 There was another silence. \u2018I\u2019ll go in and see him myself tomorrow,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Goodnight boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Night Pa,\u2019 they chorused.<\/p>\n

\u2018Do you think he\u2019ll give in?\u2019 asked Hoss as they watched their father disappear up the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u2018Nope,\u2019 said Adam as he picked up a book.<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure is quiet around it ain\u2019t it?\u2019 said Hoss sadly.<\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u2018Yes.\u00a0 Isn\u2019t it nice?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss frowned. \u2018Don\u2019t you give me that!\u2019 he said. \u2018You miss him as much as I do.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam hid a grin. \u2018Maybe,\u2019 he said. \u2018But not half as much as someone else around here does.\u2019 He looked at the staircase meaningfully.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Joe put his hands over his ears to try and drown out the noise in the cell next to him.\u00a0 It seemed that Clem Tanner would never stop that racket that had kept him awake all night. He rubbed his eyes wearily, wishing the man would just give it a rest so that he could get some shut-eye as well. He looked at the large man sprawled out on the bunk.\u00a0 His snoring sounded like a saw grating against a tree-trunk, although he himself seemed oblivious to it.<\/p>\n

Joe sighed. Yesterday he hadn\u2019t thought things could get any worse, but last night when Sheriff Coffee had brought Clem in drunk Joe had soon discovered that they could. Not only did the man snore incessantly, but in the rare moments he did wake up it was to throw up in the chamber-pot under his bed. The noise and the smell of it was enough to make Joe want to heave himself.<\/p>\n

Now with the dawn he found himself bleary-eyed and short tempered as he watched the man blissfully sleeping off his hangover. He put his head down again and rested his chin on his hands, wondering what new tortures the day would bring for him.<\/p>\n

Suddenly a series of snorts from the man in the next cell made him look up again. He watched as Clem sat up groggily and gave him a lopsided grin. \u2018Hello there young feller!\u2019 he said. \u2018What you in here for?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe scowled at him. \u2018Busting up the Saloon,\u2019 he said. \u2018I don\u2019t need to ask why you\u2019re here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Clem smiled again. \u2018Just my weekly visit,\u2019 he said. \u2018Sheriff Coffee usually lets me sleep off my celebrating here. Hey!\u2019 he shouted loudly. \u2018Where\u2019s my breakfast?\u2019 He burped loudly and began to scratch himself. \u2018Feel kinda hungry this morning,\u2019 he explained. Joe gave him a disgusted look and turned away. \u2018Hey! What\u2019s wrong with you?\u2019 asked Clem. \u2018Bit refined for old Clem are ya?\u00a0 Fancy Cartwright boy ain\u2019t ya?\u00a0 I know your sort\u2026\u2019 he pointed a finger at Joe. \u2018We\u2019re all the same in here boy, you just remember that!\u2019<\/p>\n

Sheriff Coffee entered the room bearing two bowls. \u2018Here you go gentlemen,\u2019 he said. \u2018Breakfast.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe took his bowl, hoping to see something other than the porridge he\u2019d come to expect.\u00a0 When he saw the same fare, however, he made a face.<\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the matter with you?\u2019 asked Clem with his mouth full. \u2018Don\u2019t ya like porridge?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shuddered. \u2018It\u2019s got lumps in it,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018I like the lumps!\u2019 declared Clem as he sprayed a mouthful over Joe through the bars. \u2018They slide down easy once ya get use to em.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe put down his bowl.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d eat some if I were you,\u2019 said Roy pleasantly. \u2018It\u2019s a long wait until lunch.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe picked up his bowl and began to eat reluctantly, listing all the while to Clem slurping his down in the next cell. \u2018That\u2019s the boy!\u2019 said Clem. \u2018You\u2019ll get used to it in time.\u2019 He licked his fingers and then reached for his chamber-pot. \u2018Hey Sheriff,\u2019 he said . \u2018Can ya empty that fer me?\u00a0 I need to fill it up with other things.\u2019\u00a0 He gave Roy a wink and took another spoonful of porridge.\u00a0 Joe groaned quietly to himself.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018Ben!\u2019 said Roy delightedly as he looked up from his paperwork. \u2018That boy of yours in there will be mighty pleased to see you!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018How is he?\u2019 asked Ben as he sat down.<\/p>\n

\u2018Not too happy,\u2019 said Roy with a smile. \u2018Clem Tanner is the cell next to him.\u2019 He wrinkled up his nose. \u2018That one\u2019s hard to put up with at the best of times.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben tried not to smile. \u2018Is it OK if I visit for a while?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018You giving in and paying up for him?\u2019 asked Roy.<\/p>\n

\u2018No I\u2019m not!\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I\u2019m just visiting.\u2019\u00a0 He pointed a finger at his friend. \u2018And if I sound like I\u2019m weakening, you have my full permission to ignore me!\u2019 he said. \u2018That boy is going to learn his lesson if it\u2019s the last thing I do!\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy signalled with his hand. \u2018He\u2019s all yours,\u2019 he said. \u2018Yell out when you\u2019re ready!\u2019 He smiled to himself. It was a well-known fact that Ben\u2019s youngest son possessed a considerable amount of charm that he was usually able to use to his advantage.\u00a0 It would be interesting to see who won this round!<\/p>\n

Joe looked up as his father entered the room and sprang to his feet. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he said happily. \u2018I knew you\u2019d come!\u2019 He clutched hold of the bars as he gazed at his father.<\/p>\n

Ben stared back at his youngest son for a moment before holding out a bag. \u2018I brought you some clean clothes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Adam and Hoss said you\u2019d appreciate them.<\/p>\n

Joe stared at the bag with a crestfallen expression on his face. \u2018I thought you was coming to get me out of here,\u2019 he said mournfully.<\/p>\n

Ben sat down on the stool. \u2018Why would I do that?\u2019 he asked sternly. \u2018I told you a few days ago that you\u2019d be taking responsibility for your actions young man.\u00a0 The way I figure it you still have a few more days to go in here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sat down dejectedly on the narrow bunk and gazed at his father with sad eyes. \u2018I know,\u2019 he said softly. \u2018Did you get my letter Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

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

He gave a deep sigh. \u2018I meant what I said you know.\u00a0 I\u2019m really sorry for what I did.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben folded his arms in front of him. \u2018I\u2019m sure you are,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Joe put his chin in his hand as he continued to gaze at his father. \u2018I won\u2019t be so stupid next time,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure you won\u2019t be,\u2019 said Ben, crossing his legs.<\/p>\n

Joe frowned slightly. \u2018I\u2019ve learned my lesson Pa,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018Have you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s frown increased. \u2018Sure have.\u00a0 I\u2019m ready to behave myself now.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Are you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe scowled. \u2018You ain\u2019t gonna let me out are you?\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u2018I told you I wasn\u2019t Joseph. Didn\u2019t you understand what I said before?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe folded his arms as well. \u2018Yeah I understood it,\u2019 he said grumpily. \u2018I just didn\u2019t\u2026.well\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018You just didn\u2019t think I meant it did you?\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Well I did and it\u2019s time you realised that I\u2019m not playing around with you this time young man!\u00a0 You deserve everything you get in here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe jumped to his feet. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018You don\u2019t know what it\u2019s like in here!\u2019\u00a0 He gestured to the sleeping Clem in the cell next to him. \u2018He\u2019s \u2026. He\u2019s awful Pa! And the food\u2026 well I can\u2019t eat none of it. I\u2019ve got nothing to do except listen to boring old Susan Watkins when she comes to visit and \u2026.well I can\u2019t even keep clean properly!\u00a0 It\u2019s horrible Pa! I can\u2019t stand it!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head slightly. \u2018Well I don\u2019t see that you have a choice Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018This is what jail is son.\u00a0 You might think before you allow yourself to come back in here again.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shook his head violently. \u2018I ain\u2019t ever coming back in here again!\u2019 he declared. \u2018No way!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019m glad to hear that,\u2019 said Ben as he stood up. \u2018I\u2019d like to think that was the truth Joseph, and if it is then this week has not been a waste.\u2019\u00a0 He turned towards the door. \u2018By the way, there are a couple of books in that bag.\u00a0 I thought you might like to read a bit while you\u2019re in here.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes it up. \u2018Thanks Pa!\u2019 he said enthusiastically and Ben smiled to himself as he heard the boy\u2019s tone of voice.\u00a0 He\u2019d never known Joseph to be enthusiastic about reading before.\u00a0 Maybe this week would be a help to his son in more ways than one.\u00a0 He hesitated as he reached the doorway.<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s only a few more days son.\u00a0 You\u2019ll survive.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked sad again. \u2018I don\u2019t know about that Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m feeling kinda weak.\u00a0 I guess it\u2019s from the lack of food.\u2019\u00a0 Ben hesitated, feeling a bit anxious in spite of himself. \u2018And the lack of sleep,\u2019 continued Joe, warming up to the topic as he saw the expression on his father\u2019s face. \u2018I\u2019m not getting much of either. It\u2019s unsanitary as well\u2026that can\u2019t be good for my health.\u2019 He sighed. \u2018But I\u2019m sure I won\u2019t pick up any diseases serious enough to make me too ill.\u2019\u00a0 He wiped his hand over his forehead. \u2018I must admit that I\u2019ve got a bit of fever though.\u00a0 Been feeling it come on since last night.\u2019\u00a0 He played his trump card, knowing that his father usually couldn\u2019t resist worrying about his health.<\/p>\n

Ben turned to face the boy again, a little unsure of himself for a moment. \u2018Let me feel your forehead,\u2019 he said. Joe dutifully stepped forward and allowed his father to put his hand on him. \u2018You feel fine,\u2019 said Ben, his eyes narrowing.<\/p>\n

Joe sighed again. \u2018Good,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll just concentrate on not throwing up then.\u2019\u00a0 He lay down on the bunk and closed his eyes. \u2018You go on Pa.\u00a0 I know you\u2019ve got work to do.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben stared at the boy, knowing in his head that it was all an act but feeling in his heart that he should feel sorry for him. \u2018Well Joseph, if you\u2019re really not feeling well\u2026.\u2019 He began. Joe opened his eyes and looked expectantly at this father, who\u2019s own eyes narrowed at the expression on his son\u2019s face. \u2018I\u2019ll get Paul Martin to come over and take a look at you.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. \u2018No, that\u2019s OK Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m feeling a bit better.\u2019<\/p>\n

Well you tell Sheriff Coffee if you feel any worse,\u2019 said Ben with a twinkle in his eye. \u2018Paul will be sure to have some medicine to fix you up. Bye son.\u2019\u00a0 He chuckled to himself as he entered Roy\u2019s office again.<\/p>\n

\u2018Who won?\u2019 asked Roy.<\/p>\n

\u2018Who do you think?\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018I\u2019ll see you in a few days Roy. Don\u2019t take any nonsense from him.\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy smiled. \u2018Oh don\u2019t worry, I won\u2019t,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018See ya boy!\u2019 said Clem cheerily as he left his cell. \u2018I\u2019ll be back next week.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up from the book he was reading. \u2018I won\u2019t be here,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019ll be long gone by then.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pity,\u2019 said Clem with a huge burp. \u2018I\u2019ve enjoyed the company.\u2019<\/p>\n

I haven\u2019t!<\/em> thought Joe as he watched the man leave. He closed the book and turned over on his thin pillow, anxious to try and get some sleep now that things were quiet again.\u00a0 As he lay staring at the wall beside him, he was startled to hear a voice behind him. \u2018Hello Joseph.\u2019<\/p>\n

He frowned as he tried to place the voice and when he couldn\u2019t he turned slightly.\u00a0 All at once he wished that he\u2019d feigned sleep as he noticed Miss Abigail Jones looking at him with a stern expression on her face. \u2018Um\u2026hi Miss Jones,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

If there was one person Joe Cartwright would have liked to disappear from his life it was Miss Abigail. As if several years of putting up with her at school hadn\u2019t been enough, he still had to be polite to her when they met at Church on Sundays where she ran the choir. She also had a crush on his brother Adam and made a point of speaking to Joe every time she saw him as a means of finding out what Adam was doing.<\/p>\n

Abigail sat down. I heard you were in here Joseph,\u2019 she said. \u2018The whole town is talking about the fact that a Cartwright is in jail.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked surprised. \u2018Are they?\u2019 he said. Somehow he liked to think that everyone was talking about him.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes they are,\u2019 she said sternly. \u2018I hope you realise what you\u2019re doing to your family\u2019s reputation by being here!\u00a0 Your father must be ashamed of you\u2026not to mention your brother Adam.\u00a0 He\u2019d never allow himself to lose control of himself like you have!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe scowled at her, wondering what business it was of hers what he did with his life. Wisely, he decided not to voice his opinion though. Instead he tried to look casual.\u00a0 Abigail\u2019s eye fell on the book beside him. \u2018I\u2019m pleased to see that you\u2019re not wasting your time while you\u2019re in here though Joseph,\u2019 she said. \u2018I\u2019m glad that I was able to instil in you some kind of appreciation of literature during your time under my tutelage. Joe glanced down at the book his father had brought him.\u00a0 He wondered if Pa had been trying to give him a hidden message when he had chosen \u2018Pilgrim\u2019s Progress\u2019 for his reading material. He probably thought that Joe would get some kind of message from it about how to behave.<\/p>\n

Abigail reached through the bars and picked up the Bible which was also on the bunk next to Joe.\u00a0 Another of Pa\u2019s messages<\/em>, he thought grimly.<\/p>\n

\u2018This must be a comfort to you in your time of trial,\u2019 said Abigail seriously. \u2018I\u2019m glad to see that you\u2019re turning to God in your hour of need Joseph.\u2019 Joe stared at her, not quite knowing what to say. Abigail opened the book. \u2018Here,\u2019 she said. \u2018How about I read to you for a while?\u2019\u00a0 Joe opened his mouth to say no, but never got the chance as the teacher had already started reading from Ecclesiasticus:<\/p>\n

My son, have you sinned? Do not do it again,<\/em><\/p>\n

And ask forgiveness for your previous faults.<\/em><\/p>\n

Flee from sin as from a snake,<\/em><\/p>\n

If you approach it, it will bite you.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Abigail looked up at Joe. \u2018I think there\u2019s a message in that for you Joseph, don\u2019t you agree?\u2019 Joe gave her a weak smile and shrugged his shoulders as the woman\u2019s voice began to drone on again.\u00a0 Her flat voice reminded him of many boring afternoons spent listening to her in the classroom and after about half an hour of it he felt like screaming at her to shut up.<\/p>\n

Joe was just beginning to think that life couldn\u2019t get any worse than this when Susan Watkins appeared in the doorway. \u2018Hello,\u2019 she said cheerfully. \u2018You have another visitor. Oh, hello Miss Jones!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Susan dear,\u2019 said Abigail as she looked at the girls\u2019 workbox. \u2018What do you have there?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Just some quilting work I\u2019m doing,\u2019 said Susan. \u2018I thought I\u2019d keep busy while I talk to Joe. Would you like to have a look?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d love to!\u2019 said Abigail enthusiastically. \u2018Oh it\u2019s lovely dear!\u00a0 What a nice pattern you\u2019ve done.\u00a0 Would you like some help?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you,\u2019 said Susan as she got out a couple of needles. \u2018It\u2019s so nice to find a fellow enthusiast.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Hey!\u2019 interrupted Joe crossly.<\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 they both asked.<\/p>\n

\u2018What about me?\u2019 he asked.\u00a0 \u2018Does no one remember that I\u2019m here?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry,\u2019 said Susan. \u2018But I didn\u2019t know that you enjoyed quilting as well Joe.\u00a0 It\u2019s not really the sort of thing most men would admit to.\u2019\u00a0 She thrust a piece of material through the bars at him.<\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s not what I meant!\u2019 said Joe crossly. \u2018I meant that\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Here,\u2019 said Abigail. \u2018You do it like this dear.\u2019\u00a0 She reached over and held his hand as she began to pull the needle through the material. Joe tried to pull his hand away, but the woman had a firm grasp on it.<\/p>\n

At that moment, Sheriff Coffee thrust his head through the doorway and said. \u2018You have some more visitors Joe.\u00a0 Busy day for you.\u2019\u00a0 He glanced at the sight of Joe seemingly sewing with the two women and chuckled. \u2018I\u2019ll send em straight in.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 said Joe anxiously as he tried to pull his hand away from Abigail\u2019s forceful grip. A moment later he was mortified to see his friends Mitch and Seth entering the room. \u2018Hi,\u2019 he said weakly.<\/p>\n

Both boys stopped and looked in amazement at the sight before them. \u2018Picked up some new habits while you\u2019ve been in here, eh Joe?\u2019 said Mitch with a wink at Seth.<\/p>\n

\u2018Now boys!\u2019 admonished Abigail. \u2018There\u2019s nothing wrong with a man who enjoys some feminine pursuits.\u00a0 Joseph should be able to indulge his passion for quilting if he wants to without being made fun of.\u2019\u00a0 She patted Joe\u2019s arm. \u2018You\u2019re doing very well dear.\u2019<\/p>\n

Seth leant over to take a look at the material in Joe\u2019s hand. \u2018Yes very well,\u2019 he agreed with a cheeky look at Mitch. \u2018I\u2019d say Joe was real handy at sewing wouldn\u2019t you Mitch?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure would!\u2019 agreed Mitch. \u2018Never knew about this side of you before Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe gave them each a dark look. \u2018Shut up!\u2019 he hissed as he flung the material through the bars at Abigail. \u2018I wasn\u2019t sewing!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure looked like ya was to us,\u2019 said Seth.<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019 said Abigail in her best schoolmarm voice. \u2018There\u2019s no need to talk like that young man! Come on Susan, let\u2019s be on our way.\u00a0 We can finish this up at my place dear over a cool glass of lemonade.\u2019<\/p>\n

Susan smiled at Joe as she bundled her work together. \u2018I\u2019ll be back as usual this afternoon Joe,\u2019 she said. \u2018\u2019I\u2019m really enjoying our time we\u2019ve been spending together.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe glared at her. \u2018Don\u2019t bother,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh I told you it\u2019s no bother,\u2019 she replied. \u2018See you then.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Is your brother Adam likely to be visiting you Joseph?\u2019 asked Abigail sweetly.<\/p>\n

Joe smiled at her. \u2018I\u2019m sure he will be Miss Abigail.\u00a0 You be sure and look out for him won\u2019t you? I know he\u2019d love to see you.\u2019<\/p>\n

The schoolteacher gave him a wide smile. \u2018I will dear.\u00a0 Thank you.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018So,\u2019 said Mitch as he and Seth sat down. \u2018You and Susan Watkins!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe glared at his friend. \u2018What?!\u2019 he said crossly. \u2018Me and Susan Watkins nothing!\u00a0 I don\u2019t want her around!\u2019<\/p>\n

Mitch nodded and winked at Seth. \u2018Sure Joe, sure!\u2019 he said. \u2018Seems like you and her got lots in common if ya count the sewing and\u2026\u2019 he pursed his lips in the form of a kiss. \u2018Other things.\u2019\u00a0 Both he and Mitch laughed.<\/p>\n

\u2018Although I really don\u2019t know why any girl would want to come near you at the moment,\u2019 said Seth. \u2018You\u2019re on the nose Cartwright.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It ain\u2019t my fault!\u2019 said Joe indignantly. \u2018I can\u2019t get a decent wash in here.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Bet you can\u2019t get any of this neither,\u2019 said Mitch as he glanced towards the doorway and drew a small bottle furtively from his pocket.<\/p>\n

\u2018What is it?\u2019 asked Joe eagerly.<\/p>\n

Mitch thrust it between the bars. \u2018Have a swig,\u2019 he said. \u2018Seth and me thought you\u2019d be desperate about now to have a bit of a drink.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe was about to put the bottle to his lips when he was startled by a voice. \u2018That\u2019s enough of that!\u2019 said Sheriff Coffee from the doorway. \u2018There\u2019ll be no drinking in my jail!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Oh Sheriff Coffee have a heart!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I ain\u2019t had anything else to look forward to this week!\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy took the bottle for Joe and gave it back to Mitch. \u2018You two get out of here,\u2019 he said. \u2018And you\u2019re not welcome back until this youngster is out of here.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Just one swallow?\u2019 asked Joe pleadingly.<\/p>\n

Roy Coffee raised an eyebrow and pointed out of the door to the two boys. \u2018I said to go,\u2019 he said. \u2018And you,\u2019 he said to Joe. \u2018You can just be quiet if you don\u2019t want me telling your Pa what you were up to.\u2019 Joe shut his mouth immediately.<\/p>\n

\u2018Bye Joe,\u2019 said Mitch. \u2018See you in a couple of days.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Bye,\u2019 said Seth with a shrug of his shoulders. \u2018Hope you get all your sewing finished.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe gave them another dark look as they departed. \u2018Sheriff\u2026.\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

Roy stared at him. \u2018Yes?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe hung his head. \u2018Nothing,\u2019 he said. \u2018Is it lunch time yet?\u2019 Suddenly lunch seemed the highlight of the day to him.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Joe sat and listened to the sounds that were drifting in through the small barred window. It was Friday night and it seemed to him that everyone was in town having a good time. He would have given anything to be out there with them all.\u00a0 He wondered how many of his friends were over at the Saloon now having a drink and maybe talking to some of the bargirls. Pa usually let him come into town on a Friday night as long as Adam or Hoss was with him, and now that he was sixteen he\u2019d been allowed to have a drink or two.\u00a0 He sighed. Not tonight though!<\/p>\n

He wondered if Adam and Hoss were over there as well. He scowled as he thought about it. If they were, they sure hadn\u2019t made any effort to come and see him that was for sure!\u00a0 He wondered if everyone was beginning to forget about him already.\u00a0 He\u2019d read a book once about a prisoner who\u2019d been in jail for so long that no one remembered him when he finally got out again, and his fertile imagination began to run away with him as he pictured his father and brothers and all his friends staring at him in amazement and trying to remember just who he was.<\/p>\n

Another burst of laughter made him stare longingly at the window again. It sure sounded like everyone was having a great time. Selfish things! It wouldn\u2019t take much of an effort for someone to come over and visit him, but he figured they were all too busy having a good time to worry about him.\u00a0 He felt very alone and very rejected.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m just going on my rounds,\u2019 said Sheriff Coffee from the doorway. \u2018You need anything before I go?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shook his head, but didn\u2019t answer.<\/p>\n

\u2018You all right boy?\u2019 asked the Sheriff.<\/p>\n

Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

\u2018What\u2019s the matter?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe shrugged.<\/p>\n

Sheriff Coffee scratched his head as he looked at the dejected boy in the cell. \u2018It\u2019s not much longer,\u2019 he said after a moment. \u2018You\u2019ll be out of here soon.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded silently.<\/p>\n

The Sheriff shook his head and disappeared again. He took his hat off the peg and headed outside, looking up and down the street a couple of times before making his way over to the Silver Dollar Saloon.\u00a0 He liked to check it out a couple of times on a Friday night, as he knew from experience that his mere presence would remind everyone to keep their heads as the drink overcame them.\u00a0 The place was indeed crowded and he glanced around a couple of times to reassure himself that all was well before moving on.<\/p>\n

\u2018Hi Roy,\u2019 said a voice behind him and he turned to see Adam and Hoss standing there. \u2018How\u2019s our little brother?\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy smiled at them. \u2018Not doing too well tonight,\u2019 he said. \u2018I think it\u2019s been a long week for him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure it has,\u2019 agreed Adam. \u2018I just hope he\u2019s learned his lesson through it all.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I think you can count on that,\u2019 replied Roy. \u2018Remind your Pa that the boy\u2019s due out tomorrow will you boys?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa doesn\u2019t need any reminding,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I think he\u2019s found the week to be as long as Joe has.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Been kinda quiet out on the ranch without him eh?\u2019 asked Roy with a twinkle in his eye. \u2018I thought you\u2019d all miss him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah well don\u2019t tell Joe will ya?\u2019 asked Hoss with a laugh. \u2018We wouldn\u2019t want him to get the wrong idea.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Pa will be very pleased to get him home again,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I think you can expect him in bright and early tomorrow to pick up the culprit.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll look forward to it,\u2019 said the sheriff with a smile. \u2018He\u2019s been attracting quite a bit of attention since he\u2019s been in there.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be glad to get my jail back to myself again and only deal with the easy prisoners like bank-robbers and murderers.\u2019 He gave them both a wink. \u2018See you boys.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018We gonna visit him?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u2018I suppose we should,\u2019 replied Adam. He glanced over at the Silver Dollar. \u2018No rush though.\u00a0 Come on brother, I\u2019ll buy you a drink.\u2019 He put his arms over Hoss\u2019 shoulder as they entered the Saloon together.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u2018Hi Joe!\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe looked up to see his two brothers standing in the doorway grinning at him. He sat up and gave them a big smile. \u2018Hi,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m real glad you came.\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss clapped him on the back through the bars. \u2018Well what do you know!\u2019 he said. \u2018Our little brother has learned to appreciate us while he\u2019s been in here.\u00a0 Ain\u2019t that nice Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure is,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Maybe you\u2019ll be nicer to us when you get out.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head. \u2018I\u2019ll be so glad to get out of here!\u2019 he declared. \u2018Is Pa coming in to get me tomorrow?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss winked at Adam. \u2018Is it tomorrow you\u2019re getting out?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Isn\u2019t it the day after?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah I think it is,\u2019 said Adam, returning the wink.<\/p>\n

Joe looked at them aghast. \u2018No!\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s tomorrow\u2026..ain\u2019t it?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Not sure now,\u2019 said Hoss, rubbing his chin. \u2018I think it\u2019s the day after though.\u00a0 Anyways, what does one day matter?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes filled with tears before he could stop it. \u2018It makes a big difference to me!\u2019 he said. \u2018It is tomorrow!\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam noticed his brother\u2019s expression. \u2018We were only kidding Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Of course it is.\u00a0 Pa\u2019ll be coming in to get you in the morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe wiped his eyes on his sleeve. \u2018Can\u2019t I go home with you tonight?\u2019 he asked miserably. \u2018Sheriff Coffee might let you take me if you ask him.\u2019<\/p>\n

Adam hesitated. \u2018No,\u2019 he said. \u2018Pa said a week and a week it has to be. \u2018Sorry little buddy.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe sat down on the bunk and stared at the floor. \u2018I just wanna get out of here,\u2019 he said in a small voice. \u2018Please?\u2019<\/p>\n

Hoss looked at Adam and bit his lip. \u2018We can\u2019t do it Joe.\u00a0 Sorry.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s OK,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018You try and get some sleep now,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018It\u2019ll be morning before you know it.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018OK,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018We\u2019ll see you in the morning Joe,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u2018OK,\u2019 said Joe.<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s looks right miserable,\u2019 said Hoss as they left the jail. \u2018I feel like just taking him home in spite of what Pa said.<\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019ll survive one more night,\u2019 said Adam, but he too looked anxious. \u2018Come on\u2026 let\u2019s get home.\u2019<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Ben breathed a sigh of relief as he tied up his own horse and that of Joe\u2019s to the rail outside the jail.\u00a0 It had hard to restrain himself from coming into town at first light and he had actually had to force himself to wait until after breakfast.\u00a0 He knew that Adam and Hoss were well aware of his anxiousness at getting Joseph home again and he tried not to let on to them how much of a rush he was in, but it had been difficult.<\/p>\n

He strode over to the jail. \u2018Hello Roy,\u2019 he said as he entered.<\/p>\n

The Sheriff looked up. \u2018I thought I\u2019d see you first thing,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019ve got one anxious boy in there Ben.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Is he all right?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Sure is.\u00a0 Mighty anxious to get out of there though.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks for looking after him.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018My pleasure,\u2019 replied the Sheriff. \u2018I just hope he learned his lesson for you Ben. I don\u2019t think any of us could stand the strain of having young Joseph Cartwright in jail too often.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well hopefully we won\u2019t have to worry about it again,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Although something tells me that youngest son of mine might make a return trip one day.\u2019 He followed Roy in to the next room and said loudly as they entered it. \u2018I\u2019ve come to take your prisoner off your hands now Sheriff.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe leapt to his feet at the sound of his father\u2019s voice. \u2018Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018Am I glad to see you! Sheriff can you unlock the door now?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Just a minute there son,\u2019 said Roy. \u2018Hold your horses.\u2019\u00a0 He fumbled with the keys as Joe picked up his bag.<\/p>\n

\u2018How are you Joseph?\u2019 asked Ben as Joe leapt out of the cell and hugged his father.<\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m great now Pa,\u2019 Joe said. \u2018I promise I won\u2019t ever do anything so stupid again.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019m glad to hear it,\u2019 said his father with a smile. \u2018Come on, there\u2019s a hot bath and a good meal waiting for you at home.\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s grin widened. \u2018Sounds great Pa!\u2019 he said. \u2018Um\u2026. thanks Sheriff!\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy grinned. \u2018Well I think that\u2019s the first time I\u2019ve ever had anyone thank me for keeping them in jail for a week,\u2019 he said. \u2018But you\u2019re welcome son.\u2019\u00a0 He reached down and picked up an old newspaper that was on the floor. \u2018Like to take this in case you have a need for it?\u2019<\/p>\n

Joe frowned at him. \u2018No thank you!\u2019 he said firmly. \u2018Come on Pa, let\u2019s get out of here!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben winked at Roy as he followed his son out of the jail.\u00a0 Joe stood blinking in the strong sunshine outside. \u2018Sure is good to feel the sun again,\u2019 he said. \u2018Coochie!\u2019\u00a0 He sprang forward and hugged his horse delightedly before mounting up. \u2018Come on Pa!\u00a0 I\u2019ll race you!\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph!\u2019 said Ben as he mounted up as well. \u2018Wait until we get out of the town please!\u2019\u00a0 But his words were lost on his son who was already halfway up the main street in his excitement.<\/p>\n

\u2018Tell that boy when you catch up with him that I\u2019d hate to lock him up for disorderly conduct!\u2019 said Roy from the doorway. \u2018A charge like that would mean three days in jail!\u2019<\/p>\n

Ben tipped his hat at the Sheriff as he rode away. \u2018I\u2019ll be sure to tell him,\u2019 he said cheerily. \u2018I think he might take notice of me this time!\u2019<\/p>\n

Roy Coffee grinned and turned to walk inside his jail again. Somehow it didn\u2019t seem the same as it had before and he sighed as he listened to the silence.<\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0Ben is determined to teach Joe a lesson when he gets into trouble in town, but will the youngest Cartwright survive his punishment?<\/p>\n

Rated: K (14,690 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":4873,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23,4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2072","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-humor","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-4-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":4009,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Calamity-over-the-Comstock-8.jpg?fit=634%2C563&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":50566,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=50566","url_meta":{"origin":2072,"position":0},"title":"The Victor (by LizS)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"February 17, 2001","format":false,"excerpt":"Synopsis:\u00a0Adam and Hoss take Joe to town, to help him turn his luck around. Rating:\u00a0 G\u00a0 (5,140 words) The Brandsters acknowledge that the authors are the owners of their stories.\u00a0 Should an author included in this project reach out to us and indicate they do not wish their work to\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Brothers"","block_context":{"text":"Brothers","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1009"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":11341,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=11341","url_meta":{"origin":2072,"position":1},"title":"Sharp Draw (by BettyHT)","author":"BettyHT","date":"June 26, 2015","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Ben has to accept that his youngest is growing up. \u00a0His older sons help him and Little Joe make that transition with one very important lesson that Little Joe has to learn from Adam and Hoss. \u00a0 Rating = PG \u00a0WC = 1153","rel":"","context":"In "Brothers"","block_context":{"text":"Brothers","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1009"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/02\/brothers.jpg?fit=296%2C226&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":2988,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2988","url_meta":{"origin":2072,"position":2},"title":"A Night In San Francisco (by frasrgrl)","author":"frasrgrl","date":"June 24, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 \u00a0Adam and Joe are in San Francisco and all Adam wants is one night of culture.\u00a0 Word Count: 502\u00a0\u00a0Rated: T","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\/2014\/04\/jb.jpg?fit=720%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/jb.jpg?fit=720%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/jb.jpg?fit=720%2C480&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/jb.jpg?fit=720%2C480&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":7055,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7055","url_meta":{"origin":2072,"position":3},"title":"Pride of a Woman (by Cheaux)","author":"Cheaux","date":"September 6, 2010","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A WHN for Pride of a Man.\u00a0\u00a0 Joe has one more lesson to teach. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0 T -- \u00a0 WC \u00a01000","rel":"","context":"In "What Happened Next\/Later"","block_context":{"text":"What Happened Next\/Later","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=13"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-14.jpg?fit=649%2C542&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-14.jpg?fit=649%2C542&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-14.jpg?fit=649%2C542&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":13950,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13950","url_meta":{"origin":2072,"position":4},"title":"Loved and Lost (by Susan G)","author":"SusanG","date":"December 12, 2007","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 An romance ends badly. 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