{"id":2131,"date":"2009-09-09T18:46:37","date_gmt":"2009-09-09T22:46:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2131"},"modified":"2026-07-22T07:24:24","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T11:24:24","slug":"bakers-brat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2131","title":{"rendered":"Baker’s Brat (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Just how much influence could one seven-year-old have on an Army Post?<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span> K \u00a0WC 15,500<\/span><\/p>\n

Baker’s Brat Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Baker’s Brat<\/a>
\nBaker’s Dozen<\/a>
\nBaker’s Legacy<\/a>
\nBaker’s Destiny<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Baker’s Brat<\/strong><\/p>\n

The minute I laid eyes on the boy I knew.\u00a0 It took a moment to register with me and an instant later it would have been too late.\u00a0 I would have emptied the contents of both barrels of my rifle in his direction without thinking.\u00a0 But for an instant I hesitated, and it was in that instant that the information registered in my brain like a lightning flash.<\/p>\n

The boy was white!\u00a0 It was hard to tell of course considering the state of him, hard to see beyond the filth that encrusted his body and clothing.\u00a0 It was his eyes that gave me the clue.\u00a0 The startling green colour leapt out at me like two beacons that signalled to me to stop.\u00a0 Closer investigation showed me that the hair was too curly to be that of an Indian\u2019s and the colour was wrong.\u00a0 The boy had chestnut curls, and no Indian ever had hair that colour \u2013 least of all falling down around his shoulders in a curly halo like this boy\u2019s.<\/p>\n

In that instant, I lowered my gun\u00a0and was rewarded by the look of sheer panic leaving the bright green orbs in front of me.\u00a0 The look was replaced by one of wariness as they followed the path of the rifle-butt as it travelled downwards and rested as it did by my feet. For a moment we stood still, he staring at my feet and I staring at him.\u00a0 Then a noise behind caused me to turn sharply and raise my gun again.<\/p>\n

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In the split second that it took for me to dispose of the brave who had been advancing upon me and then turn to again face the boy, he made as if to move away.\u00a0 I grabbed him by the wrist and held on for dear life as he struggled against me, kicking out and hitting me with his one free hand.\u00a0 The noise around us increased and I pulled him forward to the cover of a rock that was not far away, and flung him to the ground beside me.\u00a0 Pinning him by the arm I ignored his struggles and continued to fire randomly into the mass of bodies that wove before me.<\/p>\n

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After a few moments, I noticed the activity ceasing slightly and looked for the telltale blue uniforms that would signal my fellow soldiers were close.\u00a0 They seemed to be everywhere at once, running and shouting at the tops of their voices while chasing the Piautes.\u00a0 The boy beside me ceased to struggle as the noise diminished and my grip on him relaxed a little as I felt him quieten.<\/p>\n

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When I felt it was safe to take my eyes off the scene before me, I turned once more to study him, and noticed that he had positioned himself as far away from me as was possible given the circumstances.\u00a0 Those green eyes continued to stare at me and his expression was fierce.\u00a0 On one so young it looked quite amusing, and I would have laughed aloud if I had been anywhere else except in the middle of an Indian war.<\/p>\n

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In those few moments as we sat and studied each other I noticed a few more details about him.\u00a0 He was quite young \u2013 probably around six or seven\u2013 and very thin.\u00a0 He looked as if he could do with a hearty meal, and I sadly acknowledged that he was probably starving, as many of these poor heathen had been this last winter.\u00a0 He was dressed in traditional Paiute clothing, complete with moccasins, and his hair was kept back from his forehead with a leather thong.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Do you understand me boy?\u2019 I asked.\u00a0 This statement only earned me a piercing glare from him and he tried to wrench his arm away from me.\u00a0 He barred his teeth to me like a young wolf cub and made a snarling noise.\u00a0 Well at least I knew one thing \u2013 he was not ready to be friends at this stage!<\/p>\n

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At that moment a shadow fell across us both and I looked up to see Sergeant\u00a0 Beame standing before us.\u00a0 \u2018Baker, what on earth are you doing with that?\u2019\u00a0 he barked at me.<\/p>\n

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I stood up, dragging the boy with me. \u2018He\u2019s white Sarge,\u2019 I answered. \u2018See?\u2019\u00a0 I pushed the boy forward and showed him to the man.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Well I\u2019ll be!\u2019 he exclaimed. \u2018Now what is that doing here?\u2019\u00a0 He rubbed his hand over his eyes wearily and thought for a moment before replying. \u2018You\u2019d better bring him over to the Lieutenant.\u2019 He turned on his heel and disappeared into the mass of bodies in front of him, and I had no option but to follow.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Come on boy,\u2019 I said and walked forward dragging the reluctant youngster with me.\u00a0 I tried not to look at the bodies of the fallen braves and soldiers around me, and wished that the boy didn\u2019t have to witness the carnage that had taken place here.\u00a0 Even though I\u2019d taken part in many of these scrub wars as we called them, they never got any easier to take!<\/p>\n

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I approached the cluster of blue uniforms at the other end of the clearing and noticed the number had vastly diminished from the time we had come across this camp.\u00a0 Many of my comrades had fallen this time, and the troop was cut by at least half.\u00a0 I wondered briefly whether or not we\u2019d be returning to the Fort now after all.<\/p>\n

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Several of the others turned to stare at me when I reached them. I felt conspicuous because of the small figure dangling from the end of my hand, and wanted to shake him off.\u00a0 But I clung on and pushed him forward towards the Lieutenant as I said. \u2018I found this youngster over by the rocks sir. He\u2019s obviously white.\u2019<\/p>\n

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Every eye in the group was riveted to the small figure beside me, and I felt him stiffen as he glared back at them.\u00a0 After a moment\u2019s silence he took a step sideways and tried to hide behind me, but I pushed him forwards again.\u00a0 Lieutenant Parks stared at him for a moment and scowled. \u2018Well we have no choice but to take him with us.\u2019\u00a0 He glared at me for giving him this complication. \u2018We\u2019ll have to return to the Fort anyway now.\u2019<\/p>\n

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He turned and strode away from us, barking at the Sergeant as he went. \u2018Have the men bury the bodies Sergeant Beame.\u00a0 We\u2019ll make camp over the next rise as soon as that\u2019s done.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Yes sir!\u2019 replied the Sergeant and began to organise the men.<\/p>\n

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I stood waiting for an indication of what to do with the boy, and when no order was issued in my direction I tentatively asked. \u2018Sergeant, what am I to do with the boy?\u2019<\/p>\n

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He stared at us for a moment. \u2018Guess he\u2019s your responsibility until we get back to the fort Baker. Make sure he doesn\u2019t get away.\u2019<\/p>\n

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I sighed with frustration as he strode away from me, and looked down at the small figure beside me. He glared back up at me, and for a moment I swear we were thinking the same thing. Stuck with you!\u00a0 What am I supposed to do now?<\/em><\/p>\n

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\u2018Come on boy,\u2019 I said, my tone betraying my frustration. \u2018Over here.\u2019 I pulled him over towards the rocks again and sat him down none too gently.\u00a0 I felt instantly sorry for my rough handling of him, as I saw him grimace as he hit the earth and tried to rub his arm where I had pulled on it.\u00a0 Sitting beside him I loosened my hold and tried to figure out the best way to go about this.<\/p>\n

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I leant down towards him, noticing unhappily as I did the nasty smell that lingered around him. \u2018Do you understand me boy?\u2019 I asked him again.\u00a0 The only reaction I got this time was that he tried to wriggle out of my grasp again, and made as if to bite me before I shoved him backwards. \u2018Suit yourself then,\u2019 I said irritably and reached for a canteen that was lying beside us. \u2018Here,\u2019 I offered it to him, but he continued to glare at me and didn\u2019t move to take a swallow.<\/p>\n

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I sighed and lifted it to my mouth, but before I could take more than a couple of swallows I felt it wrenched from my grasp as he pulled it towards him and lifted it to his own mouth.\u00a0 I watched as he drank thirstily, and wondered why he hadn\u2019t taken it when first offered. Then it struck me. \u2018You thought it was bad, huh?\u2019 I asked. I had heard of Indians giving their captives bad water only to watch in amusement as they died in agony in front of them.\u00a0 I watched the boy as he drank and wondered what else he had witnessed in his time with them.<\/p>\n

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As he lowered the canteen from his mouth, I took it back and drank a few swallows myself. \u2018Better?\u2019 I asked him, but only received the customary glare. I put the stopper back in and looked up to see him staring at something over my shoulder.\u00a0 Turning, I followed his line of vision and watched with him as my comrades pulled body after body over to the freshly dug pit and dumped them in.\u00a0 I wondered for the first time just how long this child had lived here with these savages, and if indeed he considered himself one of them rather than white.\u00a0 Perhaps he didn\u2019t understand English at all?\u00a0 Perhaps he didn\u2019t even know he was white?<\/p>\n

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I shook my head and tried not to think about it.\u00a0 After all, it wasn\u2019t anything to do with me.\u00a0 I was just put out that it happened to be me who had found him first, and now I was landed with the burden of him until we reached the fort.\u00a0 What would happen to him then was nothing to do with me, and I wondered why it had entered my head at all.<\/p>\n

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We sat in silence for a long time, watching as the remainder of the bodies were buried and what was left of our troop prepared to mount up.\u00a0 I pulled the boy to his feet and went to retrieve my horse, dragging him after me.\u00a0 Glaring at a couple of others who grinned at my discomfort, I picked the child up and placed him at the front of my saddle, then mounted behind him.\u00a0 As I placed my arm around his waist I noticed for the second time just how thin he was, and made up my mind to make sure he was well fed that night.\u00a0 Shaking my head I wondered why that thought had entered my mind at all, and I moved off after the others down the hill towards the creek where we were to make camp.<\/p>\n

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The boy sat stiffly in front of me, holding himself as far away from my body as was possible.\u00a0 As we reached the camp I sensed him tensing up again and held onto him firmly.\u00a0 I looked down onto the top of his head and noticed in his dirty curly hair a multitude of crawling little beings, and shuddered to think of them transferring themselves to me.\u00a0 Instinctively I pulled back away from him, and he looked up into my eyes questioningly.\u00a0 I quickly brought the horse to a halt and dismounted, reaching up for him and lifting him to the ground.<\/p>\n

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To the laughter of those around me, I marched him to the creek and sat down to remove my boots before pulling him into the water.\u00a0 Without hesitating I pushed him under the water, taking no notice of his wriggling protests.\u00a0 As I dunked his head time and time again I noticed the water around us darkened with the dirt that clung to his body and marvelled at just how much of it there had been.<\/p>\n

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Bringing him to a standing position I examined his head for a second time and was relieved to see that the crawling throng had lessened somewhat.\u00a0 Conscious of the gathering crowd on the bank, I hauled him towards them and flung him onto the grass in the sun.\u00a0 As he tried to crawl away several hands pushed him back towards me roughly, and I heard myself saying \u2018Be careful with him!\u2019<\/p>\n

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The sound of laughter again filled the air, and I wondered why I had sounded like I cared what happened to the boy.\u00a0 He was a dirt-ridden mass of fleas and all my instincts told me that I should be keeping my distance from him, yet I felt a little sorry for him as I gazed down where he sat glaring up at me and panting.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Hey you lot!\u2019 barked the Sergeant. \u2018This camp won\u2019t set itself up you know!\u2019\u00a0 The others dispersed to their various tasks, leaving the boy and I alone.\u00a0 I wondered if I should try to clean him even more, and considered getting a cloth from my saddlebag to wipe his face with, but before I could move someone thrust both a cloth and a small bar of soap at me.<\/p>\n

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I acknowledged them with a shrug of my shoulders and proceeded to pick the boy up by the arm to haul him back into the creek again.\u00a0 But this time he was ready for me, and did everything possible to stop me.\u00a0 Fending off his flailing arms and legs was bad enough, but when he tried to bite me as well I lost my temper and started to shake him. \u2018Stop it!\u2019 I ordered, and he stilled for a moment, startled to feel the movement. \u2018That\u2019s better,\u2019 I said and began to lift him into the water again.<\/p>\n

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He stood quietly watching me roll up my pants, up to his knees in the water.\u00a0 I entered after him and sat him down as I removed his woven shirt and began to scrub his hair first and then his face.\u00a0 Ducking him under the water several times until I was satisfied that the worst of the dirt had been removed, I stood him up again and pulled down his pants, before repeating the ministrations on his torso and legs.\u00a0 I then lifted him up and sat him on the bank within arm\u2019s distance as I scrubbed his clothing and laid it out to dry.\u00a0 All the while he stared at me with a slight frown on his face.<\/p>\n

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As I scrubbed the clothing he sat with his knees pulled up and his arms firmly clenched around them, naked as the day he was born.\u00a0 I glanced over at him and noticed the thin frame that barely covered his bones, and the curly hair that looked even longer when it was wet. I continued to scrub strongly, angry that I had been placed in this position, but anxious to get this child as clean as possible if I was to share a horse with him for the next couple of days.<\/p>\n

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When I had done all I could with the rough clothing, I laid them to dry in the sun and sat next to the boy as I pulled my boots back on.\u00a0 Behind us the noises of the others setting up camp provided a background of false domesticity, and I decided to try for a third time for a response from him.\u00a0 I touched him lightly on the shoulder, only to feel him pull away from me as I asked once more. \u2018Do you understand me boy?\u2019<\/p>\n

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There was no other response from him, but then I had not really expected one. We sat together in silence for several minutes, watching the water in front of us, and I felt quite guilty to have an excuse not to join the others in their work.\u00a0 The smell of meat roasting began to invade my nostrils and I remembered the game that one of the boys had shot earlier that day before we had come across the Indian camp.\u00a0 It seemed like a lifetime ago now!<\/p>\n

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After a while I picked up the boy\u2019s shirt and pulled it over his head.\u00a0 As I reached for his pants he got there before me, and pulled them on himself, glaring at me as he did so.\u00a0 I shrugged, and stood up. He stood beside me, and I suddenly realised that he hadn\u2019t moved away from me in several moments.\u00a0 I tried walking a few steps away and was pleased to see that he matched my movements, striding alongside me. At least I didn\u2019t need to hang onto him every step of the way now!<\/p>\n

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I sat down with the others and the boy positioned himself next to me.\u00a0 As the plates of meat and beans were handed around I handed one to him, but he merely held onto it and looked at the contents without making a move to eat anything.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Can\u2019t be too hungry,\u2019 said a grizzled veteran beside me, and they all chuckled at the sight of the boy holding the plate in front of him and glaring at the meat. \u2018Here, give it back if you\u2019re not going to eat it,\u2019 he reached for the plate, but I slapped his hand away.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Let the boy have it,\u2019 I said angrily.<\/p>\n

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\u2018Why? He\u2019s not eating it!\u2019 replied the man beside me. \u2018I\u2019m not watching good food go to waste!\u2019<\/p>\n

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I remembered the water, and leant over to snatch a piece of meat from his plate.\u00a0 Making sure that he was watching me, I brought it slowly to my mouth and bit off a piece, then held it out to him again.\u00a0 He snatched it quickly from my hand and stuffed it into his mouth and chewed noisily.<\/p>\n

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Everyone laughed and the veteran beside me said, \u2018Well look at that!\u00a0 The brat was hungry after all! Feed him a bit more Baker.\u2019<\/p>\n

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I picked up another piece of meat and we repeated the process several times until his plate was empty.\u00a0 He sat and looked at me silently with wide eyes, juice from the meat dribbling down his chin.\u00a0 I leant forward and wiped it with my thumb, and for a moment I could have sworn that he nearly smiled at me.\u00a0 Almost, but not quite.\u00a0 I felt pleased that he had eaten so much, and felt a real sense of achievement that I had managed to get him cleaned and fed so quickly.\u00a0 Maybe he wasn\u2019t going to be such a burden after all?<\/p>\n

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I changed my mind later that night when, for what seemed like the hundredth time, he kicked me awake.\u00a0 I had spread my bedroll close to the fire and positioned him between the fire and myself, in order to keep him close in case he decided to run, and also to keep him warm.\u00a0 I figured that a little guy like him would need as much warmth as he could get during these cold nights, and lay next to him to conserve our body heat. Unfortunately I discovered too late just what a restless sleeper he was, and it was my fate that night to spend the hours fending off his flailing arms and legs as he tossed and turned in his sleep.<\/p>\n

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As the dawn broke I lay watching his profile in the dim light, and marvelled at his fine features.\u00a0 Without the layer of dirt covering him he was quite a handsome child, and I began to wonder just where he had originally come from and whether or not his family had given up looking for him.\u00a0 As we lay there together and I watched him sleep I noticed just how small and vulnerable he looked, and felt a wave of protectiveness come over me. Poor kid deserved better than this, that was for sure! I resolved to make sure that he got back to the Fort at least without too much worry.<\/p>\n

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Suddenly I felt a warm trickle against my leg, and realised with disgust that he had peed on me. Angrily, I shook him awake and picked him up under his arms. Carrying him away from the other sleeping forms around us, I stood him against a rock and watched amazed as he continued to relieve himself while still half asleep. It was as if he was sleepwalking!\u00a0 I plonked him down again on the bedroll and walked down to the creek to wash my pants leg, resolving as I did to make sure that we had separate bedrolls that night.<\/p>\n

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When I returned, the camp was rousing itself, and the boy was sitting up and rubbing his eyes as he looked around.\u00a0 I noticed with a hint of satisfaction that he seemed to be searching for something, and when he noticed me coming back towards him he relaxed a little.<\/p>\n

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I tried to smile at him, but the wetness on my pants leg reminded me that I wasn\u2019t feeling too kindly towards him at the moment, and I just nodded at him instead before beginning to roll up the blankets and tie them together.\u00a0 He sat and watched me silently as usual, and I began to wonder if indeed he could talk at all.<\/p>\n

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As we organized ourselves in the early morning light, I sensed an air of amusement amongst the others, and realised that the boy was beginning to copy my movements as I went about my tasks.\u00a0 He stuck one step behind me and was constantly underfoot as I turned to pick something up or put it down.\u00a0 It was beginning to become somewhat annoying, and I sincerely wished him onto someone else.<\/p>\n

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As we began to mount up he stood next to me as if waiting to be put onto my horse, and I\u2019m afraid I took out my frustration on him by plonking him none too gently in the saddle.\u00a0 He looked down at me with a glare, and I swear I could see a temper there on the little face. Sighing, I mounted up and took off at a trot, holding onto him tightly. He wriggled under my grip, but I stilled him impatiently and held on even tighter.<\/p>\n

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It annoyed me that he obviously felt that he was automatically attached to me now \u2013 although I suppose in truth he was \u2013 and I desperately wanted to be free of the burden of him.\u00a0 I offered to let him ride with one of the others, but not surprisingly they didn\u2019t take me up on the offer and seemed to find it quite amusing. One of them referred to him as \u2018Baker\u2019s Brat\u2019 and the name stuck until they were all taking great delight in referring to him as such.<\/p>\n

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For the next two days we went on as such, and by the time we reached the Post I was heartily sick of their constant ribbing about the boy, and had come to look on him as something to be well rid of as soon as we arrived.\u00a0 I made sure that he ate and slept at the appropriate times, but apart from that tried to have as little to do with him as possible.<\/p>\n

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Unfortunately, he obviously began to see himself as attached to me, and followed me everywhere I went like a shadow.\u00a0 Always underfoot, he continued to mimic my actions but never responded to any instructions. I began to realise that he mustn\u2019t understand English at all. Either that or he was very good at playing a game about it for some reason.<\/p>\n

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Either way, as we rode into the Fort I breathed a sigh of relief to think that my duty with him was over and it was time to hand him over to someone else.\u00a0 As we dismounted I walked him over to Sargeant Beame and asked, \u2018Sargeant what would you like me to do with the boy now?\u2019<\/p>\n

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He looked at me for a moment as if he had forgotten all about him.\u00a0 After a moment\u2019s hesitation he said, \u2018I suppose you\u2019d better hang onto him until we get orders to the contrary, Baker.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\u2018Sarge!\u2019 I said, but he had already turned on his heel and left. I glared after him and cursed under my breath as I wondered how much longer I would have to put up with this.\u00a0 As I looked around everyone else was disappearing with their horses, then heading over to the bunkhouse to grab some well deserved rest.\u00a0 I looked down at the small figure at my side and he stared back at me with his hands folded in front of him. \u2018Well come on then,\u2019 I said angrily, \u2018I\u2019m not standing around here wasting time with you!\u2019<\/p>\n

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He followed me as I organised my horse, and then drifted with me over to the bunkhouse.\u00a0 As we entered, I was met with shouts from the others who were in various stages of getting ready for sleep. \u2018You\u2019re not bring that brat in here with us!\u00a0 Get him out of here and cleaned up at least!\u2019<\/p>\n

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I glared at them and gave them a few choice words back, but knew I was fighting a losing battle in trying to stay without at least cleaning the boy up a bit.\u00a0 It was true that he was in a lot better condition than he had been when I had first found him, but he still smelt quite a bit and obviously needed a good bath. \u2018Come on,\u2019 I said as I pulled him after me. \u2018The sooner we get this over with the better.\u2019\u00a0 I took him over to the bathhouse and seated him on a chair as I began to heat some water and search for towels.<\/p>\n

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As I worked, I sensed someone come in behind me, and turned to see Doc Conway enter.\u00a0 \u2018So this is the youngster that everyone is talking about,\u2019 he said with a grin. \u2018Baker\u2019s Brat I believe he\u2019s called?\u2019<\/p>\n

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I tried not to glare at him and answered smartly, \u2018Yes sir.\u00a0 Have you come to take charge of him sir?\u2019<\/p>\n

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He must have sensed the anxiousness in my voice, for his grin grew wider and he answered, \u2018No I can see that he\u2019s obviously attached to you Baker, so I wouldn\u2019t dream of coming between you.\u2019 He stared at the boy for a moment, who stared back at him without flinching.\u00a0 The kid had guts, that was for sure! After a moment, the Doc said, \u2018I thought I\u2019d better examine him, but on second thoughts you\u2019d better finish getting him cleaned up first.\u00a0 Bring him over to my office when you\u2019ve done. Oh and Baker,\u2019 he said over his shoulder as he began to leave the room, \u2018try and get him some decent clothes while you\u2019re at it.\u2019<\/p>\n

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And just where did he think I was going to get something to fit a child that size? I thought. Honestly \u2026.. as if I had nothing better to do!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I finished filling the tub and pulled the boy over to it.\u00a0 He seemed to sense what was coming and tried to struggle away from me, but I had taken just about all I was going to, and stripped the clothing off him before plonking him into the water and holding him down. \u2018Now sit still,\u2019 I warned him, \u2018or I\u2019m just going to have to get rough.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To my surprise he quietened down immediately, and I felt him glaring at me again. Not caring, I started to scrub him vigorously, ducking him under the water at regular intervals until the water turned so black that I couldn\u2019t see the bottom of the tub anymore. I repeated the process a second time with a fresh tub of water until I was satisfied that the boy was as clean as I was going to get him, and wrapped him in a towel while I tried to comb out the tangled mess that masqueraded as his hair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d give up on that if I were you,\u2019 said a voice behind me, and I turned to see Trooper Dawson standing in the doorway grinning at me. Mike was a good friend of mine, and had no doubt come to see how I was getting on once he heard of my predicament.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And just what would you suggest then?\u2019 I asked as I continued to tug at the curls.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Cut it,\u2019 he replied. \u2018Looks like it could do with a good cut anyway.\u2019\u00a0 He walked into the room and began to rummage through the various articles of shaving equipment that was left on the bench near a small mirror.\u00a0 \u2018Here you go!\u2019 he said after a moment. \u2018Try this!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He held up a large pair of scissors and motioned with them towards me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I can\u2019t cut hair!\u2019 I said. \u2018I\u2019d probably end up scalping him!\u2019\u00a0 I swear I felt the boy flinch at my words, but when I looked down at him he was still sitting staring at Mike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019ll get Ames then.\u2019 He said. \u2018He\u2019ll be able to do it.\u2019\u00a0 Ames was the resident barber at the Fort who made sure that we all looked presentable and passed inspection.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018While you\u2019re at it, see if you can find something for me to dress the kid in,\u2019 I said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ve got to be kidding!\u00a0 And just what would you suggest?\u2019 he replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How do I know!\u00a0 But I can\u2019t have him running around here naked that\u2019s for sure!\u2019 I replied testily. \u2018See what you can do, eh Mike?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He grinned at me. \u2018Yeah OK.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I turned back to the boy and continued to pull on the comb that now seemed to be stuck in his hair. After several more attempts I gave up, and sat down next to him, defeated. We stared at each other for a few moments, and then I shrugged my shoulders and grinned at him. \u2018Well you certainly look a lot different with all that filth off you,\u2019 I said. \u2018You look just about human now.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was true. The child was really very good looking, even if he was a bit thin.\u00a0 Apart from his hair he had very fine features and his eyes were the greenest that I had ever seen. I wondered not for the first time just who his folks were, and if they were still looking for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So this is Baker\u2019s Brat,\u2019 a voice behind me said, and I turned to see Ames grinning at me.\u00a0 \u2018Mike said you needed my services over here.\u00a0 He said to tell you he\u2019s on a mission to find some clothing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I nodded at him, and motioned to the boy sitting beside me. \u2018I think all this needs to be cut off.\u00a0 I can\u2019t do anything with it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ames took one look at the boy\u2019s head and exclaimed, \u2018I\u2019m not surprised! What a mess!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Without another word he picked up the scissors and began hacking at the curly locks, dropping them on the floor around us.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We were both taken by surprise when the boy leapt to his feet and began to push Ames away from him with his puny little arms, scowling at him at the same time. \u2018Hey, sit down you!\u2019 Ames yelled. \u2018Baker, hold onto him while I finish this.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I held him down, no easy task that was for sure.\u00a0 The boy was determined not to let Ames at his hair, and it took the two of us to keep him anywhere near still.\u00a0 Finally I sat him on my lap and held his arms by his sides with one hand, while trying to keep his head still with the other. Ames held onto his head as well while trying to cut the hair at the same time.\u00a0 Finally, he finished and stepped back to survey his handiwork.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Not too bad at all considering the circumstances,\u2019 he proclaimed. \u2018At least now we\u2019ll be able to comb it. Keep hold of him for a minute longer.\u2019\u00a0 He picked up a comb and pulled it through the now shorter curls, exclaiming as he did so. \u2018It\u2019s incredibly thick even now.\u00a0 Have to do though.\u2019 He picked up a mirror and held it up for the boy to see, but he just continued to scowl into it. \u2018OK suit yourself,\u2019 said Ames. \u2018Stubborn little cuss ain\u2019t he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I shrugged as I let him go and he scampered back to his position alongside me. \u2018Sure is!\u00a0 You want him?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No way!\u00a0 He\u2019s all yours!\u2019 Ames replied with a laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At that moment. Mike entered the room, holding a bundle of clothing in his arms. \u2018Don\u2019t tell me you found something!\u2019 I exclaimed. \u2018What have you got?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He held them out to me. \u2018I don\u2019t know how good they\u2019ll be, but at least they\u2019ll be better than what he had on before.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I held them up to inspect them, and noted that the pants and shirt were rather thread worn, but clean.\u00a0 They looked too large for him, but as Mike said they were a better choice than what he had come in. \u2018Where\u2019d you get them?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Remember that wagon train that came through here a couple of months back?\u2019 I nodded.\u00a0 Several families had taken refuge with us at the height of the Indian problems.\u00a0 There had been a couple of children with them, that much I remembered. \u2018Well the family with the kid that didn\u2019t make it \u2026. well \u2026. They left some stuff behind.\u2019 He motioned to me not to say too much in front of the boy, which I thought was fairly stupid as it was obvious that he couldn\u2019t understand us anyway. I remember now that one particular family had a child who had died \u2013 fever or something I think \u2013 and guessed that the clothes must have belonged to him.\u00a0 There was even a small pair of boots.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I pulled the boy around in front of me and began to dress him.\u00a0 My first instincts were right \u2013 the clothes were too big, but with the suspenders pulled as high up as they would go he didn\u2019t really look too bad.\u00a0 The boots were large as well and flopped on him a bit, but they would do for now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Standing him away from me, the three of us surveyed him critically for a moment, and agreed that he looked a whole lot better than he had when he first arrived.\u00a0 Personally, I thought he looked kind of cute, but there was no way that I was going to let on that fact to anyone!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I have to get him over to Doc Conway,\u2019 I said to the others. \u2018He wants to take a look at him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What do you reckons gonna happen to him?\u2019 Mike asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How should I know,\u2019 I replied. \u2018I\u2019m just waiting for orders that\u2019s all.\u00a0 Soon as someone takes him off my hands I\u2019m going to get some sleep.\u00a0 I\u2019ve been lumbered with him far too long already.\u2019 I stood up and walked towards the door, noticing that the boy shadowed me as was becoming usual.\u00a0 \u2018Come on you!\u2019 I said irritably. \u2018Let\u2019s get going. Thanks guys!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We walked outside into the hot sunshine, the boy\u2019s boots flopping slightly as we walked.\u00a0 As we proceeded across the compound, several men called out to us, but the boy ignored them and instead looked to me for a reaction.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t give them the satisfaction of having one, but by the time we reached the doctor\u2019s office I was madder than I\u2019d been.\u00a0 I hoped to goodness the Doc would see his way clear to taking the boy off my hands, and I aimed to try and talk him into it if I could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Doc Conway stood as we entered his office, his eyes travelling immediately to the boy and registering surprise. \u2018Well you certainly performed a miracle here!\u2019 he exclaimed. \u2018Come over here boy!\u2019 He gestured to the child, but he didn\u2019t move. I pushed him forward a step or two, but he immediately stepped backwards and stood behind me glaring at the doctor fiercely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Seems like he\u2019s not too keen on doctors,\u2019 said Doc with a laugh. He bent down and leant close to him and said, \u2018Do you understand me boy?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure he doesn\u2019t Doc,\u2019 I said, trying to get him out from behind me. \u2018He hasn\u2019t responded to anything so far.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hmm. Well, bring him over here and I\u2019ll take a look at him,\u2019 the Doc said. I pulled him out from behind me and dragged him across to the examining table that was in the corner, and picked him up to place him on it.\u00a0 He struggled in my arms, hitting out at me with both arms and legs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Stop it!\u2019 I said impatiently, shaking him a little. \u2018Calm down will you?\u00a0 The Doc\u2019s not going to hurt you!\u2019\u00a0 He continued to struggle, so I pinned him to the table with both arms as I tried to keep him quiet. Bending close to his face I looked into his green eyes and said quietly, \u2018Lie still now. Just keep still for God\u2019s sake kid!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor came over to us to commence his examination.\u00a0 It took the two of us to get his suspenders and shirt off so that he could begin, and when he was satisfied I pulled the shirt back on and began to remove his pants. The boots were impossible, so I just pulled the pants down around his ankles and left them there. At least that helped to keep his legs still!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cursing under my breath at him as he continued to struggle, I watched as the Doc finished up and then let go of the boy.\u00a0 Glaring at me, he pulled his pants up and replaced his suspenders himself, pushing my hands away when I tried to help him. When he was fully dressed again, he sat looking at me with a fierce expression on his face, and I could tell that he wasn\u2019t happy with me at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He seems to be all right,\u2019 the Doc said as he put away his instruments. \u2018On the skinny side of course, but apart from that he\u2019s fine.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For some unknown reason it pleased me to hear his words and I smiled at the boy, but he continued to glare at me.\u00a0 \u2018What do I do with him now Doc?\u2019 I asked hopefully. \u2018Seems that he might be better off with you here for now don\u2019t you think?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sorry, but I can\u2019t keep him,\u2019 Doc Conway replied. \u2018I\u2019ve got patients to see and he\u2019d only get in the way.\u00a0 The best thing you can do for this youngster is to feed him up and then get him to sleep for a while.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But Doc,\u2019 I began to try again, but he held his hand up to stop me. \u2018Thank you Corporal Baker,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m sure the Colonel will send for him when he\u2019s ready.\u2019\u00a0 He turned and left the room, and once more I was left to consider what to do with the child.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We stared at each other for a moment, his eyes telling me clearly that he still wasn\u2019t happy with me, and then I shrugged and left the room.\u00a0 Telling myself that I didn\u2019t really care if he followed me or not, I was nevertheless relieved to hear the distinctive flopping of his boots behind me as he shadowed me again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We walked over to the Dining Hall, and joined the queue for lunch.\u00a0 I could hear the calls as I entered, and was none too pleased at the sound of them. \u2018It\u2019s the kid!\u00a0 You know the one \u2013 Baker\u2019s Brat.\u2019\u00a0 I didn\u2019t like the thought of them attaching him to me in that way, but to tell the truth I couldn\u2019t blame them.\u00a0 We were becoming an item, the two of us \u2013 that was for sure!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I collected a plate for each of us and sat him down next to me and began to eat.\u00a0 I noticed with a hint of satisfaction that he began to eat without being coaxed to this time, and actually used the fork that I handed to him.\u00a0 He was either a very clever mimic, or he had not lived with those savages all his life, that was obvious.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t eat too much, but at least he was doing it voluntarily now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So how\u2019s it going?\u2019 Mike sat next to me with his own plate and smiled at the kid. \u2018Haven\u2019t got rid of him yet?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u00a0 Seems like no one else is stupid enough to get saddled with him,\u2019 I replied. \u2018Maybe I should take him over to the Colonel\u2019s office and wait with him there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wouldn\u2019t if I were you,\u2019 replied Mike. \u2018They told you to keep him with you until they\u2019re ready for him, so if I were you I\u2019d do just that!\u2019 He smiled at the boy again, but didn\u2019t get any response from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well what am I supposed to do in the meantime?\u2019 I asked. \u2018I can\u2019t have him trailing around after me all the time!\u00a0 I\u2019ve got things to do!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah?\u00a0 Like what?\u2019 asked Mike with a grin. \u2018Seems to me like you\u2019ve just got back, so you\u2019ve got no duties until tomorrow really.\u00a0 Surely they\u2019ll have taken him off your hands by then.\u00a0 Just what were you intending to do this afternoon?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I was going to catch up on some sleep, for your information,\u2019 I snapped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well stick him in a bunk somewhere and knock him out as well.\u00a0 That shouldn\u2019t be too hard should it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah right!\u00a0 Just my luck that he won\u2019t leave me alone if I try it!\u2019 I replied.\u00a0 Mike grinned again and stood up, patting me on the shoulder as he left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come on you!\u2019 I said, really getting angry with the boy now. \u2018I\u2019m outta here!\u2019\u00a0 He scrambled off the bench beside me and we exited the Hall to shouts of farewell from the others. \u2018See ya later kid! Don\u2019t be too tough on the brat Baker!\u2019\u00a0 I scowled around the room before leaving, my disposition darkening with every step that I took. It was all right for them!\u00a0 They didn\u2019t have to put up with the brat trailing after them every step of the way!\u00a0 I resolved that if the kid didn\u2019t sleep then I\u2019d bang him on the head with something.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I needn\u2019t have worried though, because as soon as I had lifted him into a bunk and covered him with a blanket he closed his eyes and was unconscious within minutes. I breathed a sigh of relief, as I realised that I finally free of the burden for at least a little while to come.\u00a0 I pulled off my own boots and settled myself on a bunk next to him, and was soon blissfully snoring and dreaming myself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several hours later I woke to a piercing scream, and sat up to find the boy tossing and turning under the blanket.\u00a0 Well at least now I knew that he had a voice – and what a voice it was! I reached over to try and still him, but he pushed me away even though still asleep. I held onto him and tried to wake him up, but the only thing I achieved was that he struggled even harder, screaming all the while.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally I reached down, picked him up and placed him on my knee.\u00a0 As I held him close to my chest he opened his eyes and stared up at me, and I could feel his heart beating fast against my own.\u00a0 Without thinking about it, I began to stroke his hair and he seemed to relax a little. He studied my face intently for a few moments while we stayed in this position, and his eyes began to close again.\u00a0 Gradually he relaxed until I could hear his breathing become regular and calm, and he stuck his thumb into his mouth and began to suck on it.\u00a0 As I looked down at him I noticed his features begin to relax again, and his body lost the tenseness as he leant in towards me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I felt that I should put him back into the bed again, but for some unknown reason I stayed where I was holding him for a few more moments.\u00a0 I hoped that this was not going to go on all night, as it was obvious from the sky outside the window that evening was now approaching and I felt it unlikely that anyone would be sending for us now until the morning. I hoped that he would sleep through the night at least and give me the chance to catch up on some well earned rest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As I began to place him back into the bed, I noticed with distaste that he had once again wet himself and the sheets. Cursing, I stripped the clothing off him and pulled off the sheets, searching in the cupboard at the end of the room for a rubber mat, which I placed on the mattress.\u00a0 After the sheets had been replaced I put him back into the bad and left to deliver his clothing and sheets to the laundry.\u00a0 I\u2019d be darned if I was about to do his washing as well!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Feeling free for the first time in days, I took the opportunity to wander over to get a good meal, and then joined some of my friends in a poker game.\u00a0 \u2018Where\u2019s the brat?\u2019 I was asked as I sat down. \u2018Haven\u2019t given him away have you Baker?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I wish,\u2019 I said fervently. \u2018Anyone want him?\u2019\u00a0 We all laughed at the joke, and began to discuss what might happen to him as we played.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018The Colonel will probably send him to the orphanage down south,\u2019 said Mike. \u2018Seems to me there\u2019s no other alternative if we don\u2019t know who he is.\u00a0 Was there anything on him to give a clue?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No, nothing,\u2019 I replied. \u2018He won\u2019t talk, so we can\u2019t find out who his folks are either.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Maybe he doesn\u2019t have any,\u2019 said Ames. \u2018Maybe them savages killed em.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I frowned at the thought, and hoped that if it were true the boy hadn\u2019t seen it happen. \u2018Who knows,\u2019 I shrugged. \u2018All I know is that I\u2019ll be glad to see the back of him.\u2019\u00a0 Somehow as I said the words, however, they didn\u2019t ring true to me.\u00a0 I wasn\u2019t quite sure why, but the boy was beginning to grow on me a little, and I hoped that at least we\u2019d be able to find someone who\u2019d be willing to take him in.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a couple of hours, my tired body got the best of me and I decided to hit the sack and have an early night. As I approached my room in the bunkhouse I was angry to hear the screams again that told me he was awake, and I opened the door with a bang. \u2018What\u2019s up with you for heaven\u2019s sake?\u2019 I began, but stopped when I saw his face. The tears were streaming down his cheeks and his thumb was still firmly planted in his mouth.\u00a0 His hair was matted as if he had tossed around on it for some time, and his eyes were wide with fright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To my surprise, he stopped screaming when he saw me, and practically flung himself across the bunk towards me. Clasping me around the neck he hung on tightly, and it was all I could do to breathe. \u2018Hey, little buddy,\u2019 I said while trying to disengage his arms from my neck. \u2018What\u2019s the matter? Did you wonder where I\u2019d gone?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He continued to hang onto me tightly, so I sat down and pulled him onto my lap. I stroked his hair again, and whispered to him. \u2018Calm down kid, it\u2019s OK! Just quit this will you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He quietened down almost immediately, and loosened his hold on me a little. I sat with him for a while in this position, and gradually felt him calm down again like the last time.\u00a0 This time when I replaced him in the bed, however, he didn\u2019t go straight to sleep but lay watching me intently as I removed my boots and lay down. \u2018Go to sleep will you?\u2019 I said crossly. \u2018For heaven\u2019s sake give me a break for a while!\u2019\u00a0 I turned and faced the wall as I tried to will myself to sleep, but I felt his eyes on me the whole time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally I rolled over and faced him. \u2018What?\u2019 I said irritably. \u2018Go to sleep will you?\u2019\u00a0 He continued to watch me, sucking on his thumb the whole time. We lay watching each other for a long time, and after a while I swear I saw him smile a little at me. The last thing I remember before I drifted off to sleep was the annoying slurping noise of him sucking on his thumb.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When I awoke it was early morning, and the boy was fast asleep beside me.\u00a0 It was funny, but I couldn\u2019t remember having brought him into the bed with me, but than again maybe he had crawled there during the night himself.\u00a0 However it had happened, he was flung sideways across the bed, and his arms and legs were intertwined with mine.\u00a0 Gently, I pulled him off me, and rolled him over to the other side of the narrow cot.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t stir, so I crawled over the top of him and got out of bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After dressing myself, I went down to the laundry to retrieve his clothing, and came back with it to find him still fast asleep.\u00a0 I tried shaking him to wake him up as I had no intention of missing breakfast because of him, but he was very difficult to stir. \u2018Wake up kid,\u2019 I said crankily. \u2018Open your eyes will you?\u2019\u00a0 I shook him a little, but he still refused to wake, so finally I set about dressing him while he was still asleep.\u00a0 As I sat him on my lap and began to button his shirt, he opened his eyes and looked straight at me.\u00a0 I was startled to see a wide smile on his face, and returned the look without thinking.\u00a0 His eyes sparkled at me and I thought for a moment what a cute kid he really was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shaking my head slightly, I set him on his feet and said gruffly, \u2018Hurry up and pee if you have to kid. I don\u2019t want to be late for breakfast.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t until he had done his business and we were walking across to the Dining Hall that I realised that he obeyed an instruction for the first time. So he did understand English after all?\u00a0 Cunning little cuss that he was!\u00a0 I was determined to find out just how much he did understand, and started to talk to him as we went.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So kid, what do you think?\u2019 I said as we entered the Hall. \u2018Where should we sit?\u2019\u00a0 He pointed to a vacant bench and sat down, patting the space beside him to indicate where I should be. \u2018So you do understand me?\u2019 I said as I sat. \u2018And can you talk as well?\u2019\u00a0 He sat and looked at me, but didn\u2019t respond. \u2018Well, we\u2019ll see,\u2019 I said suspiciously. \u2018Let\u2019s eat first though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I stood to get our food, and was asked by several men at the counter. \u2018So where\u2019s your brat today Baker?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Over there,\u2019 I signalled with my hand to indicate where he was sitting on the bench.\u00a0 I noticed that his eyes never left me for a moment, almost as if he thought that I might take off on him and disappear. \u2018Anyone want him?\u2019 I repeated my regular joke and we all laughed. As expected, no one took me up on the offer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He ate about half of what I hoped he would this time, but managed to drink a glass of milk that I thought would do him the world of good.\u00a0 I caught myself thinking in surprise of just how much I was beginning to sound like someone who really cared about him, and wondered why that would be so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As we finished eating, Sargeant Beame approached the table and said, \u2018Well Baker, how\u2019s it going with the brat?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine thanks sir,\u2019 I said, knowing my words didn\u2019t match the expression on my face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good,\u2019 he said. \u2018The Colonel wants you to take him over to his office straight after breakfast.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally!\u00a0 I stood up straight away, and hauled the boy to his feet as well. \u2018Yessir!\u2019 I said enthusiastically. \u2018I\u2019ll go straight away!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thought you might,\u2019 he replied with a grin, and looked down at the boy. \u2018See ya kid!\u2019\u00a0 He waved us both away from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I hurried over to the Colonel\u2019s office as fast as I could, the kid running to keep up with me and nearly tripping over his big boots a couple of times.\u00a0 As we entered the office, Lieutenant Parks met me and motioned for me to bring the boy into the inner office. His eyes registered surprise when he glanced at the boy, which didn\u2019t surprise me at all.\u00a0 He was a very different looking child to the one that we had found days ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As I stood to attention in Colonel Hudson\u2019s office, the boy stood behind me and clutched hold of my belt.\u00a0 \u2018Here\u2019s the boy sir,\u2019 said the Lieutenant, indicating him and trying to reach behind me to pull him out.\u00a0 But the boy clung onto my belt even tighter and refused to budge.\u00a0 He glared at the Lieutenant and pushed his hands away.\u00a0 \u2018Bring him out where the Colonel can see him!\u2019 he ordered, and I reached behind me and pulled him forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Colonel Hudson leant forward and peered at the child standing before him. \u2018Well young man,\u2019 he said with a smile. \u2018And just what were you doing out there all by yourself with those Indians?\u2019\u00a0 The boy just looked at him, and I noticed that his jaw clenched tightly shut. I knew his stubborn look by now, and realised that the Colonel would get no reaction out of him at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Does he understand?\u2019 the Colonel asked me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think so sir,\u2019 I said. \u2018He follows directions, and he can yell \u2013 I know that for sure!\u00a0 But he\u2019s never spoken at all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Hmm. So he\u2019s said nothing at all about his family then?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing on him to indicate where he might have come from?\u2019 this time the question was directed towards the Lieutenant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No sir, nothing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed. \u2018Well then I don\u2019t think we have any choice but to get him to the orphanage.\u2019 he said. \u2018Arrange it please Lieutenant.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sir?\u2019 asked Lieutenant Parks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Wouldn\u2019t it make more sense to send him next week when we send that Patrol out?\u00a0 They\u2019re going south and it would save making two trips.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

My heart sank, as I could sense what was coming. The Colonel thought for a moment before he replied. \u2018I suppose it would.\u00a0 We can\u2019t really spare any men at the moment after that last fiasco,\u2019 he gave the Lieutenant a look that made him cringe. \u2018But it would mean someone looking after him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Great!<\/em> I thought. And I bet I know who that someone will be!<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Colonel Hudson looked at me for a moment. \u2018He seems quite attached to you Corporal. Consider yourself on light duties for the week and try to get something out of him while you look after him. Let me know if you do.\u2019 My heart sank even further. \u2018Dismissed!\u2019 he signalled me away with his hand and picked up some papers on his desk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I looked at the Lieutenant and he shrugged his shoulders at me. \u2018The Colonel said you are dismissed Baker,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I held onto the boy\u2019s arm and pulled him roughly out of the room. I stopped outside and glared down at him. \u2018Well thanks very much!\u2019 I spat out. \u2018Now I\u2019m stuck with you even longer!\u2019\u00a0 To my surprise he swung his foot back and kicked me hard on the shin. \u2018Why you little\u2026\u2026\u2019\u00a0 I made a grab for him, but he took off across the compound, surprisingly fast considering his large boots.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I sprinted after him, but stopped when I saw Mike come around a corner and grab onto him for me. \u2018Whoa there little buddy!\u2019 he said as he swung the child into the air. \u2018What\u2019s all this about?\u2019\u00a0 He smiled when he saw me and asked, \u2018so what did he do this time?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m stuck with him for a whole week!\u2019 I spat out. \u2018Light duties and looking after him!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Light duties doesn\u2019t sound too bad,\u2019 said Mike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Want to trade?\u2019 I asked sarcastically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nope!\u2019 he said with a grin as he handed the boy back to me. \u2018He\u2019s all yours I\u2019m afraid. He\u2019s Baker\u2019s Brat to the end!\u2019 He laughed aloud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thanks!\u2019 I said, trying to rub my shin as I held onto him. \u2018Cut it out will you kid?\u2019\u00a0 I shook him to make him stop, and set him on his feet again. \u2018Now don\u2019t you try that again or I\u2019ll tan you!\u2019\u00a0 He frowned at me and clenched his little fists, for all the world looking like he was thinking about hitting me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come on!\u2019 I ordered him. \u2018Get over to the bunkhouse.\u00a0 At least if I have to look after you I\u2019m going to have a week\u2019s rest to make up for it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 he yelled at me. \u2018I don\u2019t want to!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike and I both jerked with surprise. \u2018What did you say?\u2019 I asked him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t want to!\u2019 He stamped his foot and the boot flopped as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why you little \u2026..\u2019 I spluttered. \u2018So you can<\/em> talk! You\u2019ve been having me on all the time!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His answer was to stick out his tongue at me and try to hit me with his little fists, but I held onto his arms until he gave up. \u2018He sure is a stubborn little cuss ain\u2019t he?\u2019 asked Mike, quite amused.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I glared up at him for a moment, then turned back to the boy and shook him again. \u2018If you can talk, then tell me your name!\u2019 I shouted. \u2018Well? What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stuck out his tongue at me again and said \u2018I don\u2019t want to be stuck wiv you either!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So that was it!\u00a0 He thought I didn\u2019t want him!\u00a0 Well he was right \u2013 I didn\u2019t, and I guess I had made that fact fairly clear to him. I couldn\u2019t really blame him for being angry about it.\u00a0 I knelt down in front of him and said in a milder tome. \u2018Listen kid, it\u2019s nothing personal you know.\u00a0 It\u2019s just that I\u2019ve got other things I could be doing.\u2019\u00a0 He continued to stare at me. \u2018How about we both make the best of it?\u2019 I continued. \u2018What do you say huh?\u2019 He didn\u2019t answer, but the angry look in his eye faded a little.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I got up. \u2018Come on,\u2019 I said. \u2018Let\u2019s go find something to do.\u2019\u00a0 I winked at Mike and walked away, determined to play it carefully in order to find out as much as I could about the boy.\u00a0 I figured the sooner I could find out about him, the sooner I would be rid of him.\u00a0 I glanced back to see if he was following me, but for once he stood still and crossed his arms across his chest in a stance of defiance.\u00a0 I shrugged my shoulders and pretended not to care as I continued to walk, and before too long I heard the unmistakable sound of his boots flopping along behind me again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I went over to the stables and began to groom some of the horses there, looking at him out of the corner of my eye as I worked.\u00a0 He stood quietly in a corner of the barn and watched me intently, and after a while came over and picked up a brush and began to work alongside me.\u00a0 I left him all the low parts to attend to, and noticed that he did a very good job with them.\u00a0 Someone had taught him about horses, that was for sure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So where\u2019d you learn how to do that?\u2019 I asked casually.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My brother learned me,\u2019 he replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah? What\u2019s his name?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You live with him?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He frowned. \u2018No!\u00a0 He went away!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh?\u00a0 Where to?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Boston. I\u2019m on my way to see him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I laughed. \u2018You\u2019re a bit lost then kid!\u2019 I replied, and earned a dark look from him again. I tried one more time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018So how\u2019d you end up with the Indians?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I got lost.\u00a0 They founded me, that\u2019s all,\u2019 he shrugged. \u2018Until you came along.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I pointed a finger at him. \u2018And just you be glad that I did! What was a kid like you doing wandering around out there for anyway?\u00a0 Your Ma and Pa must be worried sick about you!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I ain\u2019t got no Ma,\u2019 he said sadly. \u2018She\u2019s dead.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I felt a twinge of sympathy for the child. \u2018Well your Pa then.\u00a0 He must be worried about you!\u2019 When I got no response from him, I tried again. \u2018Does he know you were going to see your brother in Boston?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 he said quietly. \u2018I didn\u2019t tell him. I just went.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He glared at me again. \u2018Cause I wanted to!\u2019 he declared. \u2018Pa said Adam wasn\u2019t coming home for a long time, and I wanted to see him!\u00a0 Pa wouldn\u2019t let me go!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And just how were you intending to get there?\u2019 I asked, quite amused now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018On my pony!\u2019 he declared. \u2018I woulda got there too if I hadn\u2019t got lost and them Indians founded me!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I laughed again. \u2018I bet you would have too!\u2019 I said. \u2018Do you know where Boston is?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He drew himself up to his full height and answered. \u2018Sure I do!\u00a0 It\u2019s over that way!\u2019 He waved his arm in the general direction of the south.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I reached out and turned it around to the east to correct him. \u2018More over that way little buddy,\u2019 I said. \u2018And it\u2019s a very long way away!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know that!\u2019 he said. \u2018That\u2019s why Adam couldn\u2019t come home for a long time. Must be more\u2019n a week away at least.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah! At least!\u2019 I agreed, chuckling to myself. This sure was one plucky little kid. I remembered the aim of this conversation and tried again. \u2018So where ya from kid?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Will ya send me back there if I tell ya?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sure will,\u2019 I replied with a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then I ain\u2019t telling!\u2019 he declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well at least tell me what your pa\u2019s name is, so that I can let him know that you\u2019re all right,\u2019 I said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at me warily. \u2018Will ya tell my pa to come get me?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I didn\u2019t know what to reply to this. If I said yes he was likely to clam up again, but if I said no he was likely not to believe me anyway.\u00a0 I tried to wriggle out of it. \u2018Do you want me to?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He hung his head for a moment and thought. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said quietly. \u2018I want my Pa to come get me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I bent down and put my arm on his shoulder. \u2018Then tell me his name little buddy,\u2019 I said. \u2018What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked up at me and I noticed his big green eyes were filling with tears. \u2018It\u2019s Ben Cartwright. He lives on the Ponderosa Ranch near Virginia City,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I whistled. I had heard of Ben Cartwright! Why he was the richest man in the Territory!\u00a0 He must have turned the countryside over looking for this boy of his, and here he was right under my nose for the past few days!\u00a0 I needed to let the Colonel know as soon as possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come on kid,\u2019 I said \u2018Let\u2019s get back to the Colonel and he\u2019ll sort it out for you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When we entered the Colonel\u2019s office again, the same fierce look came back on the boy\u2019s face again. \u2018Why we gotta tell him?\u2019 he said. \u2018Why can\u2019t you just tell my Pa?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Cause he\u2019s in charge around here,\u2019 I explained. \u2018The Colonel will know just what to do for you.\u2019 He didn\u2019t look convinced, and continued to frown as we were ushered into the inner office again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Excuse me Colonel sir, but you said to let you know if I found out anything about the boy,\u2019 I began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes?\u2019 he said looking up from his paperwork.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019s Ben Cartwright\u2019s son, sir,\u2019 I said. \u2018Ben Cartwright from\u2026..\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I know where Ben Cartwright is from!\u2019 interrupted the Colonel and stared at the boy intently. \u2018Are you sure about this Baker?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He told me so himself sir,\u2019 I replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I thought you told me he couldn\u2019t talk,\u2019 snapped the Colonel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I said he hadn\u2019t talked sir, I didn\u2019t know if he could or not,\u2019 I replied and earned a frown from the man. \u2018Apparently he can,\u2019 I ended lamely, feeling slightly foolish now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come here boy,\u2019 the Colonel beckoned to him, but the kid stood his ground next to me and merely stared at him.\u00a0 The Colonel tried again. \u2018What\u2019s your name son?\u2019 he asked, but the boy didn\u2019t speak. \u2018Are you sure about this Baker? I don\u2019t relish bringing Ben Cartwright on a wild goose chase here for nothing if this isn\u2019t true.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I swallowed. \u2018He says it is sir,\u2019 I replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018All right then! I\u2019ll have a wire sent to him.\u00a0 Until we hear from him my orders stand and you are to consider yourself in charge of the boy! Dismissed!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sir!\u2019 I saluted him smartly and left the room, the boy trailing behind me again.\u00a0 \u2018Why didn\u2019t you speak to him?\u2019 I asked the boy angrily as we left the office and shut the door behind us.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Cause I don\u2019t like him!\u2019 he declared. \u2018His eyebrows is too big and fierce looking!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I chuckled quietly to myself, for it was true that the Colonel had an unfortunate abundance of facial hair. I kept a stern look on my face as I replied. \u2018Well that\u2019s no reason to be rude! Come on kid, let\u2019s get those horses finished.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As we walked across the compound for what seemed like the tenth time that morning, I asked him, \u2018You still haven\u2019t told me your name kid. What is it?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Joe Cartwright. Pleased ta meet ya!\u2019 He held out a small hand and smiled at me, and I grinned back at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well now that we are officially introduced Joe Cartwright, we need to get a few things straight,\u2019 I said as I shook the small hand. \u2018First of all, I\u2019m in charge here, and you do as I say. Got that?\u2019\u00a0 He nodded, his eyes wide. \u2018Second of all, I\u2019ll look after you because that\u2019s what I\u2019ve been told to do, but I don\u2019t need you whining after me every minute of the day. Understood?\u2019\u00a0 He nodded again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Will ya spank me if I\u2019m bad?\u2019 he asked tentatively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I forced myself to look stern. \u2018Yes I will,\u2019 I said. \u2018So you\u2019d better watch yourself Joe Cartwright.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded again solemnly and put his hands behind his back as he stared up at me. \u2018Now that we\u2019ve got that straight, then we\u2019ll get on with our work,\u2019 I said. \u2018Come on, we\u2019re needed back at the stables.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the next couple of days we got on fairly well considering the circumstances. Even though we knew his name now, the title of Baker\u2019s Brat had stuck, and everyone continued to call him that.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t seem to mind, and he still attached himself to me apart from the times when I couldn\u2019t stand it anymore and shooed him away for a while.\u00a0 He really was quite a nice kid, but it was obvious right from the start that he had a mind of his own and a strong will to match it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were times when I felt he was in charge of me instead of the other way around!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At night he continued to have those nightmares, often calling for his Pa in the middle of a dream.\u00a0 I took to going to bed early myself, as it just wasn\u2019t worth the hassle of checking on him all the time.\u00a0 If I didn\u2019t, then he invariably ended up screaming the place down, and I wasn\u2019t too popular with everyone because of it.\u00a0 More often than not I would wake in the morning to find him cuddled in next to me, sleeping soundly.\u00a0 As long as I remembered to wake him a couple of times to pee he kept dry, and saved me from making extra trips to the laundry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

During the day he helped me with the duties I needed to get done, although most of the time he was more a hindrance than a help.\u00a0 He became quite popular amongst the men, and they greeted us everywhere we went. \u2018Hello there kid! Well, how\u2019s Baker\u2019s Brat this morning?\u2019 And so on.\u00a0 Now that he was feeling more comfortable about being with me, he took to others more easily as well, and had quite a fetching little personality with them.\u00a0 Really, he became quite a novelty in the Fort, and soon everyone seemed to know him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a couple of days, it was hard to imagine the place without him.\u00a0 It seemed that he had made an impact everywhere at once.\u00a0 If he had been a different type of child, then all the attention might have spoilt him, but I could see that he was taking it all in his stride.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was quick to pick up on the ways of others, and soon began saluting officers when they passed him.\u00a0 They found it quite amusing and usually saluted him back, always with a kindly look.\u00a0 Lieutenant Parks even gave him a yellow army issue bandanna that he wore proudly around his neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Baker?\u2019 he asked me on the third day. He had taken to calling me the same as everyone else, and I didn\u2019t think it necessary to correct him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Am I too little to join the army?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I grinned at him. \u2018Just a bit,\u2019 I said. \u2018Maybe in a little while when you\u2019re bigger.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at me sadly. \u2018It might take more than a little while,\u2019 he said. \u2018I never seem to get any bigger.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How old are you kid?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He straightened up and nearly stood on his tiptoes. \u2018I\u2019m nearly eight,\u2019 he said. \u2018But everyone says I\u2019m puny.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Who says that?\u2019 I felt quite protective of him now, and didn\u2019t like to think of him being picked on.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018All the kids at school,\u2019 he replied. \u2018But if I got into the army, then they wouldn\u2019t say that would they?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No I guess they wouldn\u2019t,\u2019 I agreed. \u2018But don\u2019t you worry Joe, I\u2019m sure you\u2019ll grow bigger some day and catch them up.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t think I\u2019ll catch up ta my brother Hoss,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019ve got another brother?\u2019 I asked. \u2018Does this one live at home or is he in Boston too?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shook his head. \u2018Nah. He lives on The Ponderosa wiv Pa and me,\u2019 he informed me. \u2018And Adam\u2019s coming back some day too.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why\u2019s he in Boston now, then?\u2019 I asked, curious about the famous Cartwrights that I\u2019d heard so much about.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He went away ta College,\u2019 he said. \u2018He said he wanted ta learn about numbers and jimetry and stuff.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Jimetry?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah.\u00a0 You know, like circles and squares and stuff like that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh yeah, stuff like that!\u2019 I said hiding a grin at his pronunciation of geometry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t know why he wants ta learn it though.\u00a0 School\u2019s dumb!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah. Well, I wasn\u2019t too fond of it myself,\u2019 I answered without thinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His eyes widened. \u2018Ya wasn\u2019t?\u00a0 Did ya have a horrible teacher too?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t tell me that your teacher is horrible!\u2019 I said trying to look shocked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well not zactly horrible,\u2019 he replied. \u2018But she is strict!\u00a0 And boring too!\u00a0 She makes us learn numbers and spellings and stuff. And then she reads mushy stuff to us all the time.\u2019 He leant close to me. \u2018Know what?\u2019 he asked in a whisper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No, what?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018She\u2019s kinda gone on my brother Adam. Hoss says that\u2019s why he wanted ta go ta Boston.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I stifled a laugh. \u2018Well I\u2019m sure it wasn\u2019t the whole reason,\u2019 I said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I dunno!\u00a0 If ya saw Miss Jones you\u2019d prob\u2019ly want ta run away too!\u2019 he declared. \u2018Adam says she ain\u2019t his idea of a woman!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I decided that if I was going to keep any kind of dignity about me, then I had better end this conversation right away. \u2018How about we see if we can get something from the kitchen?\u2019 I suggested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded with his eyes sparkling, distracted from all thoughts of the horrible teacher for a while. As we stood to make our way over to the kitchen, Sargeant Beame suddenly appeared in front of us, and we both saluted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Morning Baker\u2019s Brat,\u2019 he said with a twinkle in his eye. \u2018And just how are you today?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Fine thanks Sarge,\u2019 he replied. \u2018How ya doin yaself?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Very well,\u2019 he replied, trying to keep his voice gruff, but failing miserably. \u2018Cartwright\u2019s replied to the Colonel\u2019s wire,\u2019 he said to me. \u2018He\u2019ll be here in a couple of days. Do you think you can survive until then?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I grinned at him. \u2018Oh I think so Sarge,\u2019 I replied. \u2018At least I\u2019ll do my best.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned to go, but was stopped by the boy pulling on his trouser leg. \u2018I\u2019m joining the army when I get bigger Sarge,\u2019 he informed the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Are you indeed?\u2019 replied the Sargeant with amusement. \u2018And just what makes you think we\u2019d have you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s face fell. \u2018Even if I grew lots?\u2019 he said tentatively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Sargeant saw his dismay and continued. \u2018Tell you what kid, you come back when you\u2019re this big,\u2019 he indicated a spot around the height of his shoulder, \u2018and we\u2019ll consider it.\u2019 He winked at me. \u2018But you\u2019ve got to eat more to get that tall you know.\u2019\u00a0 He knew of the boy\u2019s poor eating habits and was obviously trying to help get some meat on his bones in a backhanded way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at him seriously. \u2018I will Sarge,\u2019 he cried. \u2018I\u2019ll eat lots!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Sargeant saluted him again. \u2018See that you do!\u2019 he said sternly, and turned on his heel chuckling as he went.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy pulled on my hand. \u2018Come on Baker!\u2019 he cried. \u2018We\u2019ve got ta see what they\u2019ve got in the kitchen.\u00a0 I\u2019ve got ta start eating more, the Sarge says!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018OK OK, hold your horses,\u2019 I said. \u2018It\u2019ll still be there when we get there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pulled me impatiently across the compound, but hesitated when the front gates began to open and a troop of soldiers entered on horseback.\u00a0 In the middle of the group was an Indian with his hands tied behind his back and a rope around his neck, being led slowly forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy stopped and stared for a moment, then let out a scream and ran as fast as his little legs would carry him around the side of a building. I ran after him, and finally cornered him crouched among some barrels behind the Dining Hall. I bent over him and stroked him on the hair as I asked softly. \u2018What is it little buddy?\u00a0 Did the Indian scare you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked up at me with tear-filled eyes, and then flung his arms around my neck. \u2018Don\u2019t let him take me away!\u2019 he sobbed. \u2018I don\u2019t want ta go wiv him, I want ta go wiv my Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I held onto him tightly. \u2018You don\u2019t have to go with him.\u00a0 He\u2019s a prisoner here and he can\u2019t take you away.\u00a0 It\u2019s all right.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He drew back and looked at me, the tears running down his cheeks. \u2018He won\u2019t take me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No, I promise you that he won\u2019t. I told you that your Pa\u2019s coming for you didn\u2019t I?\u2019 He nodded. \u2018And didn\u2019t you hear the Sarge say that your Pa\u2019s on his way?\u2019 He nodded again. \u2018Well then! Your Pa won\u2019t let any Indian take you away and neither will I!\u2019 I declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He put his head down on my shoulder and buried his face against my neck. \u2018Don\u2019t want ta go wiv no Indians anymore!\u2019 he declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I held him tight and patted his back. \u2018It\u2019s OK little buddy, you don\u2019t have to.\u2019\u00a0 I drew him back and stood him firmly on his feet again. \u2018Now how about that food eh?\u2019 I pulled out my handkerchief and rubbed it across his face to dry the tears, then stood up. He nodded at me and tried to smile, then gripped my hand tightly as we wandered slowly across the compound.\u00a0 I sensed him looking intently for the Indian, but he was nowhere to be seen, probably having already been taken into the Colonel\u2019s office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I hadn\u2019t really given it much thought since I had brought him back to the Fort, but I began to wonder just what his life had been like with the Indians and how long he had been with them. Surely they would not have hurt a child so young, but his reaction today had shown me that he was quite afraid of them and I began to wonder about it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After we had taken some bread and cheese from the kitchen, we sat in the sun and I tried to get him to talk about it. \u2018So little buddy, do you know the Indian that came in a while ago?\u2019 He shook his head and refused to look at me. \u2018How long were you with the Indians for?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Dunno,\u2019 he shrugged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I tried again. \u2018Didn\u2019t you like living with them?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This time he shook his head violently. \u2018No!\u2019 he declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Why not?\u2019 I thought it might do him good to talk about it, but he was having none of it and simply shrugged as he continued to chew. We sat for a few minutes longer in silence, and suddenly I felt his body edge over to mine and he leaned in towards me.\u00a0 I put my arm around his shoulder as we sat there, and his head snuggled into my waist.\u00a0 He obviously needed to feel the touch of someone at that moment, and I was happy to oblige him.\u00a0 I was beginning to feel rather protective of this youngster now, and if the truth were told I quite enjoyed the closeness myself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a time, he said quietly, \u2018Baker?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How long before my Pa gets here?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just a couple of days little buddy.\u00a0 Do you think you can put up with me until then?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wriggled away from me and stood up in front of me solemnly. \u2018Yep! I reckon I can,\u2019 he said. \u2018I like ya Baker!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I felt quite pleased at his words, and grinned at him. \u2018Well I like you too Joe Cartwright,\u2019 I said, and we both laughed before he said again. \u2018But I want my Pa ta come and get me now so I can go home.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I pulled him towards me and held him be the shoulders. \u2018It won\u2019t be long now buddy until you\u2019re home again. You\u2019ll like that won\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded enthusiastically and said, \u2018Yes! But \u2026\u2026\u2019 his face clouded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But what?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My Pa might be mad at me for running away.\u00a0 He might tan me good.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I raised my eyebrows at him. \u2018He probably will be, but I think he\u2019ll be more pleased to get you back don\u2019t you think?\u2019 He looked at me, not quite convinced as I continued. \u2018Well anyway, it\u2019s no use worrying about that now.\u00a0 You\u2019ve still got two more days with us. What do you want to do?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Can I ride one of them big horses?\u2019 he asked enthusiastically, and I was amazed at how quickly his mood could change again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well, I don\u2019t know,\u2019 I said stroking my chin. \u2018They\u2019re kinda big for a little fellar like you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018But I can ride real good Baker!\u2019 he declared. \u2018My Pa and my brothers taught me, and I\u2019ve got a pony at home called \u2026..\u2019\u00a0 he stopped again and tears filled his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018What is it now?\u2019 I asked. Here we go again!<\/em> I thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My pony Star,\u2019 he sniffled. \u2018He got lost wiv me and then I didn\u2019t know where he went.\u00a0 He just walked away somewheres and I might neva see him again!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019m sure he\u2019s OK,\u2019 I said quickly. \u2018Maybe he wandered back home again and your Pa found him.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sniffles got louder. \u2018Ya reckon?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I didn\u2019t think it was very likely, but I didn\u2019t want to have him any more upset than he already was. \u2018Maybe,\u2019 I said. \u2018Tell you what.\u00a0 How about I let you ride with me on one of those big horses?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The smiles immediately came through the tears, and he tried to pull me to my feet immediately. \u2018Yeah OK! Come on, can we do it now?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I sighed, unsure how much more of these mood changes I could take. \u2018Sure thing little buddy, whatever you want.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ya know what Baker?\u2019 he said as he flopped beside me on our way to the corral.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No what?\u2019 I asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018My brother Adam calls me little buddy too, just like you do.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Does he?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yep!\u00a0 He\u2019s nice like you too. Ya know, my brother Adam \u2026..\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As we walked and I listened to his stories about his family, I wondered just how I could have thought he couldn\u2019t speak just a short time ago.\u00a0 It seemed like now that he never shut up, and I longed for just a little peace and quiet.\u00a0 The child certainly had a voice, and he used it well, that was for sure!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I let him pick out a horse, and saddled it.\u00a0 By the time I was ready to mount up, the word had spread and interested onlookers who wanted to see the boy\u2019s riding abilities surrounded the corral.\u00a0 As I saddled the horse I heard him telling everyone who would listen just how good he was at riding, and by the time I was ready to lift him down from his perch on the top rung of the corral fence I think he had himself and everyone else convinced that he was a top rider.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Come on,\u2019 I said. \u2018You get up there first and then I\u2019ll sit behind you.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I can do it myself,\u2019 he declared, and tried to put his foot in the stirrup. Seeing as how it was about level with his chin, it was an impossible task, so I lifted him up level with it. From there he grasped hold of the saddle horn and tried to pull himself up, and with a well placed boost from me he managed to eventually do it.\u00a0 That earned him a huge clap from the crowd, and he sat tall in the saddle and grinned around at everyone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he tried to grab the reins, he said to me in all seriousness. \u2018I can do it now, I don\u2019t need you ta help.\u2019\u00a0 He pushed my hands away from him and actually tried to kick the horse forward, but I was not about to let him get away with it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Oh no you don\u2019t!\u2019 I said \u2018I told you I\u2019m riding with you, and I meant it.\u2019 I had visions of what the Colonel would say to me if I let the boy fall. \u2018Now just hold on there.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I quickly mounted behind him, and he glared up at me. \u2018I told ya I don\u2019t need ya ta help me!\u2019 He said crossly. I ignored him and started to walk the horse around the corral.\u00a0 After a while I let go of the reins and let him take control, although I kept my arm around his waist.\u00a0 He earned another round of applause as he successfully manoeuvred the animal around the corral, and grinned at everyone in acknowledgement of their praise.\u00a0 He certainly had been taught to ride well, that was for sure.\u00a0 One day I was sure the boy would make an excellent horseman.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I gradually sat back in the saddle and let go of him, and he took complete control of the horse.\u00a0 It amazed me to think it, but he had in fact been right!\u00a0 He didn\u2019t need me with him at all, and if his legs had been long enough to reach the stirrups I would have jumped off and let him continue by himself.\u00a0 By the time we had been several times around the corral he had everyone cheering him, and was lapping up the praise excitedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018See?\u00a0 I told ya I could do it!\u2019 he exclaimed as I finally helped him down from the animal. \u2018I\u2019m a good rider ain\u2019t I?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You certainly are,\u2019 I said, and held him up for everyone to cheer again. He beamed around at them, pleased to be the centre of attention for so many.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

One of the men came forward and gave him a pair of gloves. \u2018Here you go Baker\u2019s Brat, he said affectionately. \u2018I reckon you deserve these Cavalry gloves seeing as how you can ride so well.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s eyes shone with delight, and he immediately tried to put them on. His little hands didn\u2019t come close to filling them of course, and they reached up past his elbows, but he wore them as if they fitted perfectly and strutted around for everyone to see and give him another clap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally he made his way back to me. \u2018See Baker?\u2019 he said with delight. \u2018I\u2019ve got a bandanna and gloves now. I\u2019m nearly a proper soldier ain\u2019t I?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Nearly,\u2019 I said grinning at him. \u2018And one day you just might be in the Cavalry for real with riding like that.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Can we go again?\u2019 he asked, his green eyes shining with anticipation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No we can\u2019t.\u00a0 Once is enough.\u00a0 Everyone has work to do, they haven\u2019t got time to sit around and watch you all day.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018OK,\u2019 he said undaunted. \u2018What do we do next?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And so it went on all day.\u00a0 By the time evening fell I was exhausted just trying to keep up with him as he tumbled from one adventure into the next, charming everyone he came into contact with in the Fort.\u00a0 All, from the lowliest Private right up to the Colonel himself when we met him near the Doc\u2019s office, before I put him to bed that night, greeted him enthusiastically.\u00a0 Even if his response to the Colonel was somewhat subdued in comparison to the others, he was at least polite this time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well young man, I believe you\u2019re just about ready to join up with us!\u2019 the Colonel said kindly as he bent down close to the boy\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yessir,\u2019 he said warily staring at the man\u2019s whiskers. \u2018But the Sarge says I have ta eat more first and get bigger.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Good idea,\u2019 said the Colonel with a twinkle in his eye. \u2018I\u2019m sure your father would appreciate you waiting a while.\u2019\u00a0 He patted him on the head as he moved away. \u2018Good job Baker, keep it up,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you sir,\u2019 I said and saluted as he passed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy scrunched up his face at the man as he departed. \u2018Why\u2019s he have so much hair on his face?\u2019 he asked in a loud voice, and I saw the Colonel hesitate for a moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I put a hand over the youngster\u2019s mouth to stop him from saying any more. \u2018Shh,\u2019 I said as the officer disappeared around the side of the building. \u2018That\u2019s not polite.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pulled my hand away. \u2018Why not?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Because,\u2019 I replied feeling somewhat foolish for not having a reason to give him. \u2018You don\u2019t go around talking about how people look that\u2019s all.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018People talk about how I look,\u2019 he said as I led him into the bunkhouse and started to undress him. \u2018They always say I look like my Ma.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You said your mother was dead,\u2019 I said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018She is,\u2019 he said in a sorrowful tone. \u2018She went to heaven a long time ago when I was five. Pa says that she can\u2019t come back.\u2019\u00a0 He thought for a moment. \u2018I think Boston must be near Heaven, cause Pa says that Adam can\u2019t come back either.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Heaven is a lot further away than Boston,\u2019 I assured him as I tucked him in. \u2018I\u2019m sure your brother Adam will come back some day.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He lay staring up at me with his large green eyes. \u2018Maybe,\u2019 he said. \u2018But I reckon Adam went ta Heaven like my Ma, and Pa just hasn\u2019t told me.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I sat on the edge of the bed. \u2018No, I\u2019m sure he didn\u2019t. Your Pa would have told you if that were true.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Then why won\u2019t he let me go ta see him?\u2019\u00a0 he asked. \u2018I asked and I asked and he wouldn\u2019t let me go.\u00a0 He just said that we have ta wait ta see Adam again.\u00a0 I think we have ta wait until Judgement Day when we see Mama again.\u00a0 That\u2019s what the minister said in church. When is Judgement Day Baker?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I ignored that question, not really sure how to answer it. \u2018Is that why you wanted to go and see Adam?\u00a0 Because you think he\u2019s dead?\u2019 I asked. He nodded. \u2018Now you listen to me little buddy,\u2019 I said. \u2018Your brother Adam is not dead, and your Pa would tell you that if he were here. I want you to put that thought right out of your head, you hear me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded again. \u2018OK Baker,\u2019 he said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Tell you what,\u2019 I said, an idea forming in my head. \u2018How about you and I write him a letter tomorrow?\u00a0 If he was dead we couldn\u2019t write to him could we?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018No I guess not,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well we\u2019ll write to him, and when your Pa comes he\u2019ll put the address on it and take it to post for you.\u00a0 How about that?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sat up and hugged him tightly. \u2018Thanks Baker,\u2019 he said. \u2018I reckon if Adam isn\u2019t dead he\u2019d like ta read a letter from me.\u00a0 Only ya will have ta help me wiv it cause I can\u2019t do spellings too good yet.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t you worry little buddy, I\u2019ll help you,\u2019 I said as I patted him on the head. \u2018Now go to sleep!\u2019\u00a0 He turned over to face the wall and was soon peacefully dozing.\u00a0 I sat next to him for a long time, wondering just how I was going to do without him in a day or so when his father came to take him away.\u00a0 It was strange to think it now, but in the space of a few short days I knew that this boy had stolen my heart, and I would really miss him when he left.\u00a0 I stroked his silky curls and smiled at the way his thumb popped into his mouth again as it seemed to every night. I had even become used to the slurping noises he made as he sucked on it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I sighed wearily as I took off my boot.\u00a0 These early nights were becoming a habit with me, and I wondered if I would be able to adjust once he had left.\u00a0 It saddened me to think that we only had a short time left together, and I fell asleep to the sound of slurping and thoughts of what we would do tomorrow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Most of the next morning was taken up with completing his letter to his brother Adam.\u00a0 He was right when he said that spelling wasn\u2019t his strong point, and we ended up doing several drafts of it before we were both satisfied that it was right.\u00a0 We would have been finished quicker if he had let me write it out for him, but as with everything else he was a stubborn little cuss and insisted on doing the finished draft himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was left-handed and his penmanship was not the best because of it.\u00a0 Even the finished product had a multitude of smudges on it and I doubted that his brother would even be able to read half of it, but at least the boy himself was satisfied with it.\u00a0 As we finally sealed the envelope, he looked at me with a satisfied grin. \u2018Adam will be pleased ta read that if he\u2019s really not dead!\u2019 he declared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sure he will,\u2019 I answered with a chuckle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Ain\u2019t ya gonna put an address on it?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Your Pa\u2019s going to do that. Remember?\u2019 I replied. \u2018Besides, I don\u2019t know whereabouts in Boston your brother Adam lives.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018He lives wiv his grandfather,\u2019 he replied. \u2018Just put Adam Cartwright. And the address will be Adam Cartwright\u2019s Grandfather. Boston.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I think we\u2019ll wait for your Pa to do it,\u2019 I said firmly. \u2018Now let\u2019s get some lunch.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As we entered the Dining Hall, Colonel Hudson greeted us again. I stared at him in surprise, as there was something remarkably different about him today.\u00a0 His eyebrows, beard and moustache had been trimmed and he looked visibly younger because of it. I swallowed nervously, and hoped that the boy\u2019s remarks from the night before had not been the cause of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded at us both as we stepped aside to allow him to enter in front of us, and the boy opened his mouth in shock. But before he could speak, I put my hand over his mouth and bustled him into the building, shaking my finger at him as I said in a whisper. \u2018Remember what I said last night!\u00a0 Don\u2019t comment on how people look.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, but couldn\u2019t take his eyes off the Colonel the whole way through the meal.\u00a0 That combined with the fact that he refused to take off his Cavalry gloves meant that his eating was somewhat impaired, and we were the last ones to finally leave the Hall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As we left the building, I noticed the Colonel speaking to a silver-haired man on the porch next to his office.\u00a0 In an instant, the boy by my side had let go my hand and was running as fast as his little legs would carry him across the compound yelling all the way. \u2018Pa! Pa! It\u2019s me, Pa! Pa!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man turned at the first sound of the child\u2019s voice and made it down the stairs three at a time.\u00a0 He met the child at the bottom of the porch and scooped him up into his arms, holding onto him tightly for a long while.\u00a0 The boy buried his face onto his father\u2019s shoulder and clasped him around the neck tightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After what seemed like a very long time, the man loosened himself for the child\u2019s grasp and held him back a little to take a look at him. \u2018Joseph,\u2019 he said simply and the love that he put into that one word made tears spring to my eyes and it was necessary for me to quickly rub them away.\u00a0 He looked carefully at the child in his arms as if to imprint the vision into his brain, and it was a few moments before he held him close to him again and turned to face the Colonel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How can I ever thank you Colonel Hudson?\u2019 he asked over the boy\u2019s head. \u2018I don\u2019t know how to begin.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Colonel motioned for me to approach them. \u2018Here\u2019s the man you have to thank Mr Cartwright,\u2019 he said. \u2018This is Corporal Baker who found the boy and has looked after him ever since.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Cartwright held out a hand to me, the other one wrapped tightly around his son. \u2018Corporal, I don\u2019t know what to say. Thank you,\u2019 he said as we shook hands. I noticed his eyes fill with tears as he said. \u2018I thought I\u2019d lost him for sure.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy wriggled in his father\u2019s grasp and turned his head to face me. \u2018This is Baker Pa. He looked after me,\u2019 he informed his father. \u2018He\u2019s in the army.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His father nodded at him and turned back towards me. \u2018I hope he hasn\u2019t been too much trouble for you,\u2019 he said.\u00a0 I thought back over the past week \u2013 the interruptions to my sleep, the worry about how much he wasn\u2019t eating, the problem with getting him cleaned up and kept that way, and the times he had peed on me. \u2018No trouble at all,\u2019 I said with a twinkle in my eye, and we both laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Somehow I don\u2019t quite believe you,\u2019 said Mr Cartwright. \u2018No body knows more than I do just what this youngster is capable of.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 said the boy, turning his father\u2019s face towards his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes Joseph?\u2019 his father replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He held his hand near his father\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Pa I\u2019ve gotta eat more so that I can get this big, and I\u2019ve got gloves and a bandanna so I\u2019m half there already, and Adam isn\u2019t dead anymore in Boston, and you have to write the address, and I have ta get a bigger horse, and the Indian\u2019s not gonna take me away, and the Colonel had a shave, and I know not ta talk about how people look, and \u2026..\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Cartwright held up a hand to silence him. \u2018Joseph, please!\u2019 he said. \u2018Let\u2019s have one thing at a time shall we?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy grinned at him. \u2018OK Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018Well Adam\u2019s not dead any more, so I don\u2019t have ta go \u2026. \u2018 he stopped and looked at his father solemnly. \u2018Are ya gonna tan me for running away Pa?\u2019 he asked tentatively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His father looked at him sternly. \u2018I think we have a lot to talk about young man,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019ll discuss that when we get home.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy swallowed and looked at me beseechingly. \u2018I think it might be best if I fill you in on a few things Mr Cartwright,\u2019 I said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded at me. \u2018I\u2019d be grateful Corporal, otherwise it might be weeks before I get any sense out of this one.\u2019 He gave the child a hug and grinned at him. \u2018Something tells me I have a lot to catch up on.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Colonel Hudson interrupted. \u2018You\u2019d be most welcome to stay the night Mr Cartwright.\u00a0 That way you\u2019d have time to speak to the Corporal and then leave fresh in the morning.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you Colonel,\u2019 he replied. \u2018Well come on then Corporal, let\u2019s you and I find a quiet place to get acquainted while we discuss this young man.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Later that night we both sat and watched the child as he slept and listened to the slurping noises as he sucked his thumb.\u00a0 \u2018I\u2019m so grateful to you Corporal,\u2019 said Mr Cartwright. \u2018If it wasn\u2019t for you my son would still be with the Indians or worse.\u2019 He shuddered as the thought crossed his mind as to just how close he had come to losing the boy. \u2018If there is anything I can ever do for you\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I held up my hand. \u2018Don\u2019t mention it sir,\u2019 I said. \u2018It\u2019s actually been quite an experience during the past week.\u2019\u00a0 It amazed me to think that it had only been a week since I had first found the child. \u2018Not that it\u2019s been smooth sailing all the way though.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled at me. \u2018I\u2019m sure it hasn\u2019t,\u2019 he acknowledged. \u2018I still can\u2019t believe how he came to be with the Indians in the first place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018How long ago did he run away?\u2019 I asked curious to know.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Six weeks ago,\u2019 he replied. \u2018I had almost given up the search when I received the telegram from the Colonel.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t believe it at first!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Sir if you don\u2019t mind me saying so, I think the boy needs you to explain to him about his brother,\u2019 I ventured. \u2018He really thought he was dead, and that\u2019s why he ran.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I know that now,\u2019 he said as he fingered the letter in his pocket. \u2018I really thought he understood that Adam had gone to College. I suppose he just remembered his mother leaving of course.\u00a0 I\u2019ll have a long talk with him about it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And\u2026..\u2019 I hesitated, and he glanced at me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018About his time with the Indians,\u2019 I continued. \u2018Well, he seemed very upset about it, and I really didn\u2019t manage to find out much about it at all.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t want to talk about it, but I sensed he was quite scared.\u00a0 I think that\u2019s going to need quite a bit of sorting out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man nodded and reached out to touch the curly head on the bed. \u2018Yes, I agree. We\u2019ll have to work through that as well.\u2019 He turned to me. \u2018Well Corporal I think it\u2019s time I turned in as well. I\u2019m sure you\u2019re looking forward to enjoying your first good night\u2019s sleep in a week.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I was indeed!\u00a0 But strangely, it was difficult for me to get to sleep at all without the constant slurping noise in my ear all night and I woke several times thinking I needed to check on the boy and get him up to pee.\u00a0 By the time morning arrived I felt a sense of loss already, and dreaded having to say goodbye to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Cartwright wanted to get on the trail as soon as possible, so after a quick breakfast he and the boy were ready to depart.\u00a0 I waited until everyone had fussed over the boy until I came over to say my goodbyes to him as he stood near to his father who was saying his final farewell to the Colonel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Well little buddy,\u2019 I said, trying to sound cheerful. \u2018Guess you\u2019re on your way now. Be a good kid for your Pa, won\u2019t you?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at me solemnly for a moment, and then nodded silently. I bent down to give him a quick hug, and whispered, \u2018Don\u2019t forget to keep eating will you?\u00a0 We want to see you back here quickly you know!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded again, then flung his arms around my neck and sobbed. \u2018I want ya ta come wiv us Baker!\u2019 he said between sniffles. \u2018Why can\u2019t ya?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I held onto him for a moment, and then pulled him away from me. \u2018Don\u2019t be stupid kid!\u00a0 Course I can\u2019t come with you.\u00a0 I\u2019ve got work to do here you know!\u2019\u00a0 I tried to look at him sternly. \u2018Now get up on that horse and stop fussing.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I lifted him up so that he could reach the stirrup and gave him a boost to help him haul himself into the saddle. \u2018I don\u2019t need ya help,\u2019 he said with a small frown. \u2018I told ya before I can do it!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Stubborn until the end!<\/em> I thought to myself. \u2018Yeah I know you can little buddy,\u2019 I said, and turned as I heard his father\u2019s voice. \u2018Mr Cartwright,\u2019 I held out my hand to him. \u2018Take care sir!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He clasped my outstretched hand with both hands and pressed on it tightly as he looked deep into my eyes. \u2018Thank you Corporal,\u2019 he said in a tight voice. \u2018Thank you very much son.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I nodded, unable to find my voice, and watched as he mounted up in the saddle. Winking at the boy, I stepped back and saluted him, and grinned to see the snappy salute that he gave back to me.\u00a0 I couldn\u2019t help thinking that with his yellow bandanna and gloves he looked half the part of a soldier already, and wondered if some day he might really enlist as he threatened to.\u00a0 Heaven help the army if he does!<\/em> I thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Mr Cartwright turned the horse and they slowly left the Fort, a little face appeared from around his waist and looked wistfully back at me, and a yellow-gloved hand waved.\u00a0 I waved back as I walked a few steps outside the Fort entrance, feeling a tightness in my throat that I found hard to explain. Suddenly I was shaken out of my thoughts by a voice beside me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I turned to see Mike standing there, also gazing after the riders. \u2018Well that\u2019s the last we\u2019ll see of him,\u2019 he said ruefully. \u2018Guess you\u2019re glad to get your life back again!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018I sure am!\u2019 I declared emphatically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We stood in silence for a moment. \u2018There\u2019s poker game going on in the bunkhouse,\u2019 Mike said. \u2018Coming?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I nodded. \u2018I\u2019ll be there in a moment,\u2019 I said.\u00a0 He patted me on the shoulder and left, and I leant against one of the fence posts as I watched the disappearing cloud of dust in the distance. \u2018Goodbye Baker\u2019s Brat,\u2019 I whispered softly as I turned back towards the Fort.
\nThe End<\/em><\/p>\n

Next Story in the Baker’s Brat Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Baker’s Dozen<\/a>
\nBaker’s Legacy<\/a>
\nBaker’s Destiny<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0Just how much influence could one seven-year-old have on an Army Post?<\/p>\n

Rated: K \u00a0WC 15,500<\/p>\n

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